The Brother GX37 and the Brother LX3817 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 major differences between them? Here I will try to answer them as simply as possible.
Table of Contents
Brother GX37 vs. Brother LX3817: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
Brother GX37 and Brother LX3817 are both mechanical sewing machines. The mechanical sewing machine has fewer stitch options than a computerized sewing machine, but it is easier to maintain and costs less.
Brother GX37 vs. Brother LX3817 : Built-in Stitches
There are 37 stitches on Brother GX37. On the other hand, the Brother LX3817 has 17 built-in stitches. Brother GX37 comes with 1 one-step buttonhole(s), while Brother LX3817 sewing machine has only 1 four-step buttonhole(s).
Weight
The Brother GX37 sewing machine weighs approximately 10.14 lbs, while the Brother LX3817 sewing machine comes with a weight of 10.36 lbs.
The extra weight can become cumbersome if you don’t have a set location in your home for your sewing machine.
Start/Stop Button
Neither Brother GX37 nor Brother LX3817 has a start/stop button. This might not be convenient for a novice to sew effectively.
Speed Control Slider
Neither Brother GX37 sewing machine nor Brother LX3817 has a speed control slider. With a speed control slider, the sewing speed will never go above your selected speed, no matter how hard you press on the pedal.
Automatic Needle Threader
To assist the user, self-threading sewing machines have what is called an automatic needle threader. The Brother GX37 has one while the Brother LX3817 doesn’t.
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 GX37 sewing machine and the Brother LX3817 sewing machine come with this user-friendly feature.
Programmable Needle Up/Down
With a programmable needle up/down function, the needle will stop down in the fabric, allowing you to raise the presser foot and adjust the fabric without the fabric moving out of position because the needle will hold the fabric in place. However, unfortunately, these two sewing machines come with this feature.
Free Arm
There is free arm on both the Brother GX37 and the Brother LX3817. The free arm is a very useful feature to all sewing machines as it makes sewing one layer of fabric without catching another. This is because all of the workings around the bobbin race, feed dogs, and needles are housed there.
| Brother GX37 | Brother LX3817 | |
| Product Image | |
|
| Sewing Machine Type | Mechanical | Mechanical |
| Stitches | 37 | 17 |
| Buttonhole Styles | 1 one-step | 1 four-step |
| Start/Stop Button | No | No |
| Built-in Memory | No | No |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | No | No |
| Monogramming Font | No | No |
| Drop Feed | – | – |
| Free Arm | Yes | Yes |
| Working Light | Yes, LED | Yes, LED |
| Speed Control Slider | No | No |
| Weight | 10.14 lbs | 10.36 lbs |
| Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | – | – |
| Snap-on Presser Foot | – | – |
| Automatic Thread Cutter | No | No |
| Automatic Needle Threader | Yes | No |
| Drop-in Bobbin | Yes | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | No | No |
| Stitch Selection | Dial | Dial |
| Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | Yes | – |
| Included Feet | Buttonhole Foot, Narrow Hemmer Foot, Zipper Foot, Blindstich Foot, Zigzag Foot, Button Sewing Foot | Buttonhole Foot, Zipper Foot, Zigzag Foot, Button Sewing Foot |
| Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | No | No |
| Tension | Adjustable by dial | Adjustable by dial |
| Knee Lifter | – | No |
| Warranty | 25 Year Limited | 25 Year Limited |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Brother GX37 Video Review
Brother LX3817 Video Review
The Verdict
When you compare the performances, both machines are neck on neck. There isn’t a lot of difference in stitch quality. Both machines handle thick and delicate fabrics exceptionally well. In fact, the stitch quality is one factor that makes these two machines different from other machines in their segment. From the feature differences we have listed above, we believe you will be able to make a decision on your own. We will leave this one to you.
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. Can I interchange metal and plastic bobbins if they are the same size?
A. Metal bobbins and plastic bobbins of the same size can NOT be swapped. Machines are set for a very precise tension setting. If they are set for a lighter plastic bobbin, the tension will change if a heavier metal bobbin is used.
Q. Does the machine work well with stretchy materials?
A. The machine works perfectly with all types of fabrics. As long as the user can work with the material, there should be no problem.
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.
Q. How much electricity does a sewing machine use
A. A typical home sewing machine may be in the 100-watt range. One estimate for portable sewing machines says that you are paying about 0.013 cents per hour every time. For the day you may be spending about 10 cents.
Q. Can a normal sewing machine sew canvas?
A. Yes, canvas can be sewn on a regular sewing machine.
