Starting with a combination sewing and embroidery machine means you get one learning curve instead of two. This guide covers Brother’s SE700 and PE545 lines, priced from $499.99 to $619.99, all built around a beginner-friendly 4-inch by 4-inch embroidery hoop.
Top Products
Pros
- Versatile 2-in-1 machine for both sewing and embroidery, saving cost and space.
- Wireless design transfer makes it easy to upload patterns from PC without cables.
- User-friendly LCD touchscreen for easy on-machine editing of designs and stitches.
- Generous collection of 135 embroidery designs and 103 sewing stitches out of box.
- Quiet operation and smooth stitching, as noted in positive buyer reviews.
Cons
- There is a learning curve for users switching from mechanical to electronic machines, as noted by some buyers.
- Machine is relatively bulky and heavy, which may require a dedicated workspace.
- Thread holding before sewing is still necessary, somewhat outdated for a modern machine.
The Brother SE700 Combo Embroidery & Sewing Machine is the natural successor to the popular SE600, tailored for creative hobbyists and beginners ready to explore embroidery. With a compact 4x4-inch embroidery hoop and a vast library of 135 built-in designs, this machine lets you personalize quilts, clothing, and gifts. It is ideal for anyone who wants to dive into embroidery without a dedicated single-purpose machine, all while maintaining robust sewing capabilities.
Standout features include the wireless LAN connectivity that allows you to transfer designs from a computer directly to the machine without USB or fuss. This streamlines the workflow for users who get designs online or from software like PE-Design. The 3.2-inch LCD color touchscreen makes redesigning, rotating, or editing patterns effortless, and the 500 bonus designs from Artspira app expand your creative possibilities. In practice, the machine runs quietly and stitches smoothly, earning consistent high ratings and positive feedback for its beginner-friendliness.
Design and build quality are typical Brother reliable: a metal and plastic frame with a clean white finish. It is a bit bulky and heavy, but the large workspace provides ample room for quilters and garment makers. The bundle includes 40+ accessories, from multiple feet to bobbins and scissors, minimizing immediate additional purchases. The instructional guide and YouTube tutorials help flatten the learning curve mentioned by some users.
Potential drawbacks are minor: the learning curve when switching from mechanical to electronic is real, but manageable with online resources. Some users note that holding threads before stitching remains a manual step, and the machine could be less bulky. However, these are typical trade-offs for an affordable combo machine offering advanced features. The reviews confirm it is an excellent value for its price range.
Overall, the Brother SE700 is a top-tier mid-range combo machine for beginners and hobbyists. It earns a 4.7-star rating from verified buyers, who love its versatility, ease of use, and generous feature set. If you want one machine that does both embroidery and sewing plus connects wirelessly, this is a winner.
Brand: Brother
Model: SE700
Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 8 inches (DxWxH)
Weight: 15 pounds
Embroidery Area: 4x4 inches (10cm x 10cm)
Built-in Designs: 135 embroidery + 103 sewing stitches
Display: 3.2 x 1.8 inch LCD color touchscreen
Connectivity: Wireless LAN enabled
Included: Machine, 4x4 hoop, 40+ accessories including extension table, feet, needles, bobbins, and Case
Compatible Software: Artpira, PE-Design, iBroidery
Pros
- Versatile 2-in-1 functionality saves space and money
- Wireless LAN connectivity simplifies design transfer without cables
- User-friendly LCD touchscreen makes navigation and editing straightforward
- Comprehensive bundle includes essential accessories for immediate use
- High customer satisfaction with ease of use and reliable performance
Cons
- Internet connectivity setup can be tricky for some users
- Software installation (Artspire) may require extra effort
- Limited number of reviews available, though mostly positive
The Brother SE700 bundle is a comprehensive sewing and embroidery solution designed for hobbyists and intermediate crafters. It combines a computerized machine with a starter kit of threads, needles, and bobbins, making it an all-in-one package for those looking to expand their creative projects.
With 135 built-in embroidery designs, 103 sewing stitches, and wireless LAN connectivity, the SE700 offers flexibility and convenience. The large color LCD touchscreen allows for easy on-screen editing and design selection. Users praise its ease of use and reliable stitching, calling it a workhorse.
The machine features a modern aesthetic with a generous workspace, automatic needle threading, and a drop-in bobbin system. Its sturdy build ensures stability during operation, and the included accessories complement the machine nicely.
Some users report difficulty with the wireless setup and software installation, particularly with Artspire. The internet connectivity feature may require patience to configure. However, these issues do not detract from the machine's core performance.
Overall, the Brother SE700 bundle is an excellent investment for anyone serious about sewing and embroidery. It delivers professional-quality results with a user-friendly interface. The included accessories add significant value, making it a top choice in its category.
Pros
- Extensive built-in designs and stitches provide ready-to-use options for various projects
- Wireless connectivity simplifies transferring designs from a computer
- Touchscreen interface makes editing and navigation easy for all skill levels
- Comprehensive bundle includes threads, hoops, and accessories, so little extra purchase needed
- Excellent customer feedback highlights its ease of use and quality stitching
Cons
- Embroidery field limited to 4x4 inches, restricting larger designs
- Does not include embroidery stabilizer, which beginners may need to buy separately
- Some users may find the learning curve steep for advanced features
The Brother SE700 is a powerful combination sewing and embroidery machine designed for hobbyists and beginners who want to explore both crafts without investing in two separate machines. Replacing the popular SE600, this model boasts a refined modern look and a larger workspace while keeping the compact footprint of its predecessor. It comes bundled with four embroidery hoops, a 40-spool thread set, and a variety of presser feet, making it a turnkey solution for anyone starting their sewing and embroidery journey.
With 135 built-in embroidery designs and 103 sewing stitches, the SE700 offers ample creative options for monogramming, decorative patches, and garment construction. The color LCD touchscreen allows for easy on-screen editing, including resizing, rotating, and combining designs. Wireless LAN connectivity enables direct transfer of designs from a PC using free Design Database Transfer software, eliminating the need for USB drives. Real-world users praise the quiet operation and consistent stitch quality across both sewing and embroidery modes.
The machine feels solid with a metal internal frame and plastic housing, weighing 15 pounds for stability during use. The included accessories bundle adds significant value: snap-on feet for various techniques, bobbins, needles, and a detailed manual. The 4x4 embroidery field is the standard for home machines, suitable for most DIY projects like tote bags, pillowcases, and shirts. The foot controller and thread spool net are thoughtful touches that enhance usability.
One drawback is the 4x4 embroidery hoop size, which limits the area for larger designs without re-hooping. Additionally, the SE700 does not include embroidery stabilizer, a necessary consumable for best results. Beginners may need to research stabilizer types and practice hooping technique. The sewing machine interface, while intuitive for embroidery, has its own learning curve for those transitioning from basic mechanical machines.
Overall, the Brother SE700 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, feature-rich combo machine without a huge investment. The bundle saves money and time, and the wireless connectivity adds modern convenience. Whether you are personalizing gifts, starting a small business, or just exploring a new hobby, this machine delivers impressive value and performance. We recommend it for its ease of use, comprehensive features, and strong customer satisfaction.
Pros
- Versatile 2-in-1 machine saves space and money compared to buying separate units.
- Wireless design transfer is quick and convenient, no USB hassle.
- Large touchscreen makes editing and selecting designs intuitive.
- Built-in stitches and designs cover a wide range of projects, from repairs to decorative sewing.
Cons
- Embroidery area is limited to 4x4 inches, which may be too small for larger projects.
- Some users report the touchscreen can be slow to respond at times.
- The included manual lacks detailed instructions for advanced embroidery techniques.
The Brother SE700 is a computerized sewing and embroidery combo machine designed for crafters who want to explore both sewing and embroidery without buying two separate machines. It is an excellent choice for beginners stepping into embroidery as well as intermediate sewists looking for a reliable upgrade.
With 135 built-in embroidery designs, 103 sewing stitches, and wireless LAN capability, the SE700 offers great creative freedom. The wireless feature works seamlessly with the Artspira app and Design Database Transfer software: you can send patterns from your phone or PC directly to the machine. The 3.7-inch color touchscreen allows you to edit, rotate, and preview designs on the fly.
Build quality is typical Brother: sturdy metal frame with durable plastic casing, weighing 15.6 pounds. The automatic needle threader and jam-resistant bobbin are time-savers. The included 8 sewing feet and 4x4 inch embroidery hoop cover most common projects like monogramming, patches, and home decor items.
One drawback is the 4x4 inch embroidery field, which can be limiting for larger designs without a larger hoop accessory. Also, the touchscreen can feel a bit laggy compared to higher-end models. The user manual could be more detailed for advanced embroidery techniques.
Overall, the Brother SE700 delivers excellent value for its price point. It is a versatile, user-friendly machine that grows with your skills. For anyone wanting a reliable sewing and embroidery combo with modern connectivity, the SE700 is a top recommendation.
Pros
- Large color LCD touchscreen simplifies design editing and navigation.
- Wireless connectivity for easy design transfer without USB cables.
- Comes with a comprehensive bundle of hoops, threads, needles, and accessories for immediate use.
- Built-in tutorials and step-by-step guidance help beginners get started quickly.
- Multiple speed settings allow control for both sewing and embroidery projects.
Cons
- Creating custom embroidery files requires separate software, as the free offering is limited.
- The 4x4 inch embroidery field may be restrictive for larger monograms or patterns.
- Initial software workflow can be cumbersome for users not experienced with embroidery design tools.
The Brother SE700 is a versatile sewing and embroidery combo machine that replaces the popular SE600. It is designed for crafters who want to explore both sewing and embroidery without buying two separate machines. With 135 built-in embroidery designs, 103 stitching options, and a large color touchscreen, this machine offers plenty of creative potential for beginners and intermediate users alike.
In real-world use, the SE700 performs reliably. The wireless LAN feature lets you transfer designs from your computer directly to the machine, saving time and hassle. The included 4 hoops (including a 4x6.75 inch size) plus over 230 accessories mean you can start sewing or embroidering right out of the box. The touchscreen is responsive and makes it easy to edit designs, adjust stitch length, and preview your work.
The build quality is typical of Brother machines: sturdy plastic and metal construction with a clean white finish. The 15-pound weight makes it portable enough for classes or small workspaces. The machine runs quietly and the automatic needle threader is a nice convenience. However, the embroidery field is limited to 4x4 inches, which may frustrate those wanting to stitch larger monograms or full designs.
A notable drawback is the software situation. While the machine includes free Design Database Transfer software, creating original embroidery files requires third-party software (like PE-Design). Some users report that the free offering is too basic and unintuitive, leading to clunky workflows. This is a common issue with many home embroidery machines, but it's worth considering if you plan to digitize your own designs regularly.
Overall, the Brother SE700 is a strong choice for anyone ready to explore embroidery without breaking the bank. The extensive bundle adds tremendous value, and the machine's ease of use makes it a pleasure to operate. If you can accept the small embroidery area and the need for additional design software, this combo machine will serve you well for countless projects.
Pros
- Highly user-friendly for beginners, with automatic threading and intuitive touchscreen controls.
- Exceptional value with over 250 included accessories, including 40 thread spools and multiple frames.
- Wireless connectivity and Artspira app enable creative flexibility directly from your mobile device.
- Solid build quality and compact footprint suitable for small workspaces.
- Built-in designs and fonts offer variety without needing additional software.
Cons
- 4x4 inch embroidery area may be too small for larger projects like adult clothing or quilts.
- Limited to embroidery only, no sewing functionality; requires a separate sewing machine for garment construction.
The Brother PE545 is an embroidery-only machine designed for beginners and hobbyists who want to add personalized stitching to small projects. It combines a user-friendly interface, wireless capabilities, and an extensive accessory bundle that includes 40 spools of thread, all at a competitive price point.
Standout features include the 3.7-inch LCD touchscreen with drag-and-drop editing, 135 built-in designs, and 10 lettering fonts. Real-world performance is smooth, with automatic needle threading and thread cutting reducing setup time. The Artspira mobile app allows you to draw custom patterns on your phone and wirelessly transfer them to the machine, adding a modern creative twist.
Design and build quality reflect Brother's reputation for durability, using metal and plastic components in a compact white chassis. The 4x4 inch embroidery area is perfect for children's clothes, patches, and home decor but limits larger projects. The bundle includes a dust cover, extra bobbins, needles, and sewing tools, making it ready to use out of the box.
A drawback is the frame size, which several users note is restrictive for full-size garments. Additionally, this is an embroidery-only machine, so you'll need a separate sewing machine for clothing construction. However, for its intended use, the PE545 delivers excellent ease of use and value.
Verdict: The Brother PE545 is a top recommendation for budget-conscious beginners seeking a versatile, feature-rich embroidery machine. Its extensive accessory kit and wireless app integration set it apart, making it easy to start creating personalized projects right away.
Brand: Brother
Model: PE545 (Bundle includes accessories)
Embroidery Area: 4 x 4 inches (100 x 100 mm)
Built-in Designs: 135
Built-in Fonts: 10
Display: 3.7-inch LCD touchscreen
Connectivity: Wireless LAN (802.11 b/g/n)
Stitching Speed: Up to 400 stitches per minute
Dimensions: 16.6 x 8 x 12 inches (DxWxH)
Weight: 15 pounds
Included Accessories: 40 thread spools, 43 additional thread spools, needles, bobbins, frames, tools, dust cover, and more
Compatible Software: Artspira app, Design Database Transfer, PE-Design 11
Combo vs. Embroidery-Only for a First Machine
The Brother SE700 ($529.99, 4.5 stars from over 1,000 reviews) is the core machine behind most of the bundles here, with accessory packages built around it running $529.99 to $619.99 depending on how many embroidery hoops and thread sets are included. If you only want embroidery to start, the Brother PE545 ($499.99) is embroidery-only, which keeps the interface simpler for a first-time user.
Who should choose the SE700 over the PE545: anyone who wants to sew garments in addition to embroidering them, since the SE700 handles both in one machine.
Compare more beginner embroidery machines in the Sewing & Embroidery category.

Write Your Review
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!