7 Best Sewing Machines under $300

Are you an aspiring quilter, tailor, seamstress or just love the craft of sewing? Today’s sewing machines offer many bells and whistles even at a price point that any sewing enthusiast can afford! There is a wide range of low-priced sewing machines that boast features from automatic thread cutters to built-in stitchers.

We combed through all our favorites to find the best sewing machines both computerized and mechanical at the most affordable prices.

Here we list the seven best sewing machines based on performance and features for under $300.

1. Juki HZL-LB5020 Computerized Sewing Machine $299

The Juki HZL-LB5020 tops the list for its easy-to-use programmable features that are simple enough for the novice but suitable for even the expert sewist. This base- to mid-level computerized sewing machine boasts:

• Large LCD screen for quick stitch selection and adjustment
• 20 different stitch patterns
• 1-step buttonhole
• 2 automatic lock stitches
• Automatic needle threader
• Width and length stitch adjustment
• Easy-start seam function
• Needle stop position memory

If you are a quilter, you will appreciate the seven-point feed dog system that allows free-motion quilting and the ability to work with several different types of fabrics. The Juki HZL-LB5020 also has a clear bobbin cover so you can keep a watchful eye on the bobbin thread and easily replace it with the drop-in style feature.

Monitor every stitch and seam with Juki’s built-in LED light that keeps the needle plate area well-lit. Conveniently, the slide-out table front offers storage space for your accessories so you can keep your sewing space clear.

The Juki HZL-LB5020 also comes with all the accessories you need to get to work on your next sewing project, including a foot control, six different presser feet, a pack of three machine needles, four bobbins, spool caps, seat, and felt, cleaning tools and accessories! Juki’s compact design and hard case are perfect for sewing at home or taking your sewing projects anywhere.

Warranty: The Juki HZL-LB5020 standard warranty includes 5 years for mechanical parts, 2 years for electronic parts and 90-day coverage of materials and workmanship.

2. Bernette 35 Swiss Design Sewing Machine $279

This mechanical sewing machine offers plenty of easy-to-use functions, making it the perfect option for the beginner sewist. The Bernette 35’s features include:

• 23 utility and decorative stiches
• 7 presser feet
• Two-step presser foot lift
• Adjustable stitch length and width
• Automatic buttonhole

Bring out the creativity in your next sewing project with 23 utility and decorative stitches to choose from, including a zigzag stitch. This sewing machine is all about simplicity and makes sewing fun even if you’re just learning how to sew.

You can adjust the tension while sewing using the easily accessible wheel, and choose the length, width and pattern of stitches with the turn of just three knobs. Sew buttonholes in no time with the one-step automatic buttonhole function. The seven presser feet allow you to easily change your stitch, whether it’s zigzag or a more delicate fabric such as satin.

For thicker fabrics, the two-step presser foot lift is up to the task of sewing through denim or several layers of fabric simultaneously. The Bernette 35 also has a manual needle threader and manual thread cutter to help you sew efficiently, and a handy accessory box to store bobbins, thread, cleaning brushes, presser feet and other sewing utensils!

Warranty: The Bernette 35 comes with a 10-year mechanical and 2-year electrical warranty.

3. Elna Elnita EC30 Computerized Sewing Machine $299

The Elna Elnita EC30 is a computerized sewing machine with functions that will take your sewing project and sewing skills to the next level. The top features of this domestic machine include:

• 30 built-in stiches
• jam-proof top drop-in bobbin
• bright LED screen
• built-in needle threader
• memory buttonhole
• easy reverse button
• needle up/down
• auto declutch bobbin winder
• 4-piece feed dog

The Elna Elnita EC30 has an impressive 30 built-in stitches for decorative and utility stitches whether you are sewing zigzag or blind hems. And say goodbye to jammed threads with one popular feature of this machine—the jam-proof top drop-in bobbin.

Additionally, the Elna Elnita EC30’s foot pedal puts you in control of your sewing speed. And speaking of speed, the locking stitch button, easy reverse buttons and needle up/down won’t slow you down while creating pristine stitches. All these features can be easily navigated thanks to the LED screen and read out.

Warranty: The Elna Elnita EC30 comes with a 25-year limited warranty on mechanical parts, 5 years on electronic components, 1 year of labor.

4. Smarter by Pfaff 140S Sewing Machine $299

This mechanical sewing machine is as fashionable in design as the potential sewing projects you can create using it! The Pfaff Smarter 140S sewing machine includes:

• 21 stitches
• Adjustable needle positions
• Snap-on/snap-off presser feet
• Integrated needle threader
• LED light
• Thread cutter
• Automatic buttonhole
• Smart grip dials
• Adjustable presser foot pressure
• Optimal feeding with seven-point feed dog
• Top-loaded bobbin

The best feature of the Smarter 140S by Pfaff is the seven-point feed dog, which smoothly sends the fabric through the machine and prevents puckering. Dovetailing on that function is the option of 21 stitches including both utility and decorative stitches.

Threading a needle has never been easier with the integrated needle threader, which works with just the pull of a lever. A long-lasting LED light highlights all your sewing projects. This model also comes with an accessory tray and a fashionable hard case, but this sewing machine stands on its own in performance and style.

Warranty: Pfaff’s Smarter 140S warranty covers 10 years mechanical, 2 years motor and electric and 1-year free labor.

5. Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine $299

The Janome Magnolia 7318 is the perfect balance of a traditional sewing machine with modern features and functional accessories. Better yet, it has a price tag that any sewist can afford. Here are the features that make this machine one of most reliable on the market:

• Stitch length control
• Thread cutter
• Bobbin winder stopper
• Foot storage compartment
• Handwheel
• Zigzag width control
• Pattern selector dial
• Presser foot lifter
• Reverse stitch button
• Drop feed lever

What sets this sewing machine apart from entry-level machines are its 18 utility and decorative stitches including zigzag stitches and control of stitch length and width. The Janome Magnolia 7318 also has a four-step buttonholer for the creation of perfected buttonholes—no snags!

This model offers a jam-proof top-loading bobbin system mostly found in higher-end sewing machines. And take control of your tapestries and fabrics with the seven-piece feed dog capability.

As a bonus, when you purchase a Janome Magnolia 7318 from Premier Stitching you’ll also get an exclusive bonus bundle of accessories that includes a Janome muffling mat, 10 plastic Janome bobbins, a pack of Size 14 needles and more.

Warranty: Janome’s standard warranty on the Magnolia 7318 covers 25 years on mechanical parts, 5 years on electrical parts and 1 year of labor.

6. Janome 2222 Sewing Machine $219

The name Janome has long been synonymous with quality, and the Janome 2222 is no exception. This entry-level model is perfect for the sewing learner that wants to try their hand at this creative craft. Here are all the features that make this sewing machine sing:

• 22 built-in stitches
• One-step buttonhole
• Easy dials to select stitches
• Variable stitch length and width
• Front loading bobbin
• Built-in needle threader
• Drop feed
• Top-winding bobbin
• Extra high presser foot lift
• Two spool pins for twin needle sewing

This affordable machine comes loaded with 22 built-in utility and decorative stitches. The free arm offers a one-step buttonhole function and a reverse stitch button to polish off the perfect seam. Plus, purchasing the Janome 2222 from Premier Stitching gives you an exclusive bonus bundle of accessories.

The beauty of the Janome 2222 is in its simplicity for new sewers that want to learn the basics. But it still delivers many time-saving features that will help you love your sewing machine.

Warranty: The 2222 comes with Janome’s standard 25-year mechanical warranty, 5 years on electrical parts and 1 year labor.

7. Janome 2212 Sewing Machine $189

This mechanical sewing machine is the most reasonably priced on our list, with no shortage of features for the beginner sewist! The affordable and reliable Janome 2212 sewing machine includes:

• 12 stiches
• Four-step buttonhole
• Zigzag stitch width adjustment
• Stitch length adjustment
• Two retractable, vertical spool pins
• Push-pull bobbin winder
• Free arm
• Dial pattern selector
• Snap-on presser feet
• Drop feed dog
• Built-in thread cutter

One standout function of the Janome 2212 is its zigzag stitch that is adjustable by length or width. There is also a dial for selecting patterns and a convenient built-in thread cutter. The four-step buttonholer is as easy to use at 1-2-3 and 4! If you’re working with different types of fabrics, you’ll find that the Janome 2212 drop feed dog moves fabrics effortlessly without the worry of bunching. Plus, purchasing this sewing machine from Premier Stitching gives you an exclusive bonus bundle of accessories at no extra charge.

Warranty: The Janome 2212 comes with a 2 year nationwide extended warranty plan, 25 years for the mechanical components, 5 years for the electrical, and 1 year of labor

No matter how complicated or simple your next sewing project is, this buying guide will help you choose the right affordable sewing machine with all the features you need for under $300!