Comparing between mechanical vs computerized sewing machine can be confusing especially when determining which machine will meet your sewing needs.
In this article, I’ll help you learn the advantages and disadvantages of each machine, and the factors to consider when choosing between a mechanical or computerized sewing machine.
This will help you compare their features to your sewing needs and make a decision on which machine will best meet your needs.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing b/w Mechanical vs Computerized Sewing Machine
Nature Of Your Sewing Projects
You need to understand which features will be frequently used in your sewing projects. Computerized sewing machines have many features like buttonholes and built-in stitches.
Choosing a computerized sewing machine for design projects can be ideal. However, if you are looking for a machine to use for simple repairs, you will not require a complex sewing machine.
It’s good if you evaluate mechanical vs computerized sewing machine features to determine what will work for you.
Computer Literacy
For a computerized sewing machine, you need to be well conversant on how to set certain features.
Budget
How much are you willing to spend on your sewing machine? Mechanical sewing machines are cheaper as compared to the computerized sewing machine.
However, given the many features found in the computerized machine, it can be twice as expensive compared to a mechanical one. Therefore, buy the machine that is within your budget limit.
On the other hand, you don’t want to spend a fortune on a computerized machine to pay for features you will never use.
Understanding the differences between mechanical vs computerized sewing machines is important before deciding on which one to purchase.
Below is an outline of what each is and its pros and cons……
What Is a Mechanical Sewing Machine?
A mechanical sewing machine is a basic machine whose stitch settings are adjusted and operated manually using knobs.
The machine is run using feet peddles or hand wheels. The stitches for a mechanical machine handle basic sewing and simple projects.
What Is a Computerized Sewing Machine?
A computerized sewing machine has a monitor display that enables you to operate. A computer is connected and used to control different functions like moving the needle bar, feed god, or tension discs.
It has a variety of built-in stitches that make precise stitches. The machine can also create a high-quality stitching design. This makes it a good choice if you are looking to purchase a machine for a professional designing career.
Mechanical Vs Computerized Sewing Machine – What Are their Pros and Cons?
Mechanical Sewing Machine Pros
It’s simple to use
Mechanical sewing machines have been used for ages and the skills have been passed from generation to generation.
Using it becomes easy and because you know all the areas you need to make ready before starting to sew.
Comfortable
There’s nothing that can beat a tradition. When you know your machine, you can get it up and running with ease.
The machine uses the same mechanism no matter the brand, hence you won’t need to figure out new things or get stuck when you buy a new one.
They are easy to maintain
Cleaning a mechanical sewing machine is much easier because it doesn’t have complex electronic parts like the computerized machines.
It’s thus easy to clean and maintain a manual machine.
Cheaper
Mechanical sewing machines cost way less than computerized machines. Even the top-rated mechanical brands are less expensive compared to computerized ones.
Mechanical Sewing Machines Cons
Can be overwhelming for beginner sewers
One would prefer an automated machine that will do everything by using a command button.
Has limited stitch choices
When comparing mechanical vs computerized sewing machine, mechanical machines have fewer stitches options compared to computerized machines.
It’s not very accurate
You will need to choose and set your stitches’ length, speed, and tension. Most times you will be doing estimation and not the exact settings.
It requires skills to be able to change the settings manually.
Pros For Computerized Sewing Machines
Ideal For Specialized Projects
There are available machines that have features for complex designs. All you need is to search for the designs online and feed them on the computer and with a few buttons, you attain the perfect design effortlessly.
Numerous Features
The computerized sewing machines have various features that can make your sewing experience easier and quicker.
Such features include automatic needle threader, auto-tying, thread cutter, locking stitch function, bobbin winder, and automatic buttonholes. Etc.
Stitching Precision
There is no estimation in computerized sewing machine because it can calculate the exact stitch type and speed for a given project, resulting in high-quality work.
Versatile
A computerized sewing machine can handle projects of any nature, be it multi-layer fabrics, embroidery, quilting, or thick fabrics.
You won’t have to worry about problems arising as can be in mechanical machines.
Computerized Sewing Machine Cons
They are expensive compared to the mechanical sewing machine
Their prices are based on the features available in a machine. The more advanced a machine is the more expensive they are.
Can be complicated to operate
With the many features present, as a beginner, you can get overwhelmed with which features are suitable for your kind of project.
They don’t last long
If you are a person who buys something that will last a lifetime, then computerized machines will not be ideal for you.
Deciding Between a Mechanical Or Computerized Sewing Machine
So, when accessing between mechanical vs computerized sewing machines the decision depends on you. There is no better machine than the other. The difference depends on your preference and the kind of projects you will be handling.
If you don’t intend to use a sewing machine for bigger projects, and only intend to use it for mending tears, then the ideal machine for you will be a mechanical sewing machine.
On the other hand, if you are aiming at creating complex designs and want to grow your sewing career, then you will need a computerized sewing machine that is more advanced.
Recommended Readings:
How to use a Sewing Machine for Beginners with FAQs
Sewing Machine Troubleshooting – An Ultimate Guide
