The Brother BB370 and the Singer XL-400 are two of the most popular affordable sewing machines we will compare today. In addition to being packed with features in an affordable price range, these two sewing machines produced excellent stitch quality.
What are the main differences between them? Allow me to simplify my answers here.
Table of Contents
Brother BB370 vs. Singer XL-400: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
The Brother BB370 is a mechanical sewing machine, while the Singer XL-400 is a sewing and embroidery combo machine. Since the machine types decide they differ a lot in features, I won’t make a suggestion.
Choose wisely depends on your sewing goal and skill levels.
Brother BB370 vs. Singer XL-400 : Built-in Stitches
With Brother BB370, you get an attractive amount of stitches – 37 to be exact. The 37 stitches include standard stitches, decorative stitches, and buttonhole stitches. As for Singer XL-400, it contains 30. These stitches include standard and decorative stitches, which are similar to those found on the Brother BB370.
Start/Stop Button
The Brother BB370 sewing machine doesn’t come with a start/stop button, while the Singer XL-400 does. One of the best ways of controlling some of your variables within free motion quilting is by using your start/stop button.
Speed Control Slider
The Singer XL-400 arrives with a speed control slider while the Brother BB370 sewing machine doesn’t. A speed control slide is a useful feature that allows you to set the maximum speed you are comfortable with.
Automatic Needle Threader
Many sewing machines sold today come with an automatic threader function. This is essentially a lever that will guide the thread through the eye of your sewing needle for you so that you don’t have to do it yourself. Many sewists prefer to thread their own needles, but if you have difficulty performing this task, then a machine with an automatic needle threader might be very useful for you. Fortunately, these two sewing machines both come with automatic needle threader, allowing you to thread the machine with ease.
Drop-in Bobbin
The advantage of easy drop-in, top load bobbins is that you can readily see how much thread is left on the bobbin through the window. You do not have to remove the bobbin case to insert a new bobbin, and you do not have to remove the accessory tray from the free arm to change bobbins. Both the Brother BB370 and the Singer XL-400 sewing machine come with this user-friendly feature.
| Brother BB370 | Singer XL-400 | |
| Product Image | |
|
| Sewing Machine Type | Mechanical | Sewing and Embroidery Combo |
| Stitches | 37 | 30 |
| Buttonhole Styles | One 1-step | 2 one-step |
| Start/Stop Button | No | Yes |
| Built-in Memory | – | – |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | No | Yes |
| Monogramming Font | No | Yes, 5 |
| Drop Feed | Free-motion With Needle Plate Cover Only | Yes |
| Free Arm | Yes | – |
| Working Light | Yes LED | Yes, 6 LEDs |
| Speed Control Slider | No | Yes |
| Weight | – | 23 lbs |
| Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | – | Yes |
| Snap-on Presser Foot | – | – |
| Automatic Thread Cutter | – | No |
| Automatic Needle Threader | Yes | Yes |
| Drop-in Bobbin | Yes | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | – | Yes |
| Stitch Selection | Dial | Push Button |
| Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | Yes | Yes |
| Included Feet | Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Zipper foot, Blind Stitch foot, Zigzag foot | – |
| Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | – | Yes |
| Tension | – | – |
| Knee Lifter | – | – |
| Warranty | 25 Year Limited | 25 Year Limited |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Brother BB370 Video Review
Singer XL-400 Video Review
The Verdict
Both of these sewing machines come from fantastic companies, but they are particularly difficult to choose between. Based on their features, my overall recommendation would be to choose the machine that comes with more built-in stitches at an affordable price.
Q. Do you need a special sewing machine for leather?
A. No, although a heavy-duty machine will make it easier. However, any good-quality home sewing machine can handle leather with a few special accessories. You will need a Teflon presser foot, a needle designed for sewing leather, and heavy-duty thread.
Q. What should I know about manual vs. electric sewing machines?
A. Manual sewing machines were the mainstay of the crafting world, but in more recent years electric (also known as computerized) machines have been increasing in popularity for their easy operation and advanced functions, such as embroidery.
If you’re looking for a simple sewing experience without frills, a mechanical machine gives you straightforward functionality.
Without electronic components, some feel that these machines prove more reliable in the long term.
However, computerized machines may shorten the learning curve for some new sewers, since choosing stitches and settings only requires the push of a button.
Q. Why use a bobbin on a sewing machine
A. In general, the bobbin is the thing that feeds the thread to stitch from the lower part of the machine. Its purpose is to hold the thread below the needle, and it is where the thread in which you stitch comes from.
Q. What type of maintenance do sewing machines need?
A. Today’s sewing machines usually require just a few basic steps to keep them in good working order. While the manual included with your machine will spell out the details, it’s important to regularly remove the throat plate and use a small, soft brush to remove thread, lint, and debris that might have become lodged inside the machine. Your machine may also require oiling to keep everything lubricated and running smoothly.
Q. Why adjust tension on sewing machine
A. Sewing machine tension adjustment is controlled by devices that separately control the needle thread and the bobbin thread, putting varying amounts of tension (or strength) on the threads they control to form a strong, balanced stitch.
Q. Can i use 3 in 1 oil on my sewing machine
A. You shouldn’t use cooking oil or automotive oil in your machine, since doing so may clog the gears and damage any fabric used in the machine. Also, 3-in-1 oil is not suitable for sewing machines, according to Threads magazine.
