The Brother JX2517 and the Singer XL-420 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 JX2517 vs. Singer XL-420: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
The Brother JX2517 is a mechanical sewing machine, while the Singer XL-420 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 JX2517 vs. Singer XL-420 : Built-in Stitches
The Brother JX2517 comes with an attractive amount of built-in stitches, 17 to be exact. Within those 17 stitches you can find standard stitches, decorative stitches and easy-to-use buttonhole stitches. While the Singer XL-420 sewing machine features 30 stitches. Similar to the Brother JX2517, these stitches include standard and decorative stitches.
Start/Stop Button
The Brother JX2517 doesn’t come with a start/stop button, while the Singer XL-420 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-420 sewing machine arrives with a speed control slider while the Brother JX2517 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
To assist the user, self-threading sewing machines have what is called an automatic needle threader. The Singer XL-420 has one while the Brother JX2517 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 JX2517 and the Singer XL-420 sewing machine come with this user-friendly feature.
| Brother JX2517 | Singer XL-420 | |
| Product Image | |
|
| Sewing Machine Type | Mechanical | Sewing and Embroidery Combo |
| Stitches | 17 | 30 |
| Buttonhole Styles | 1 four-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 | No | Yes |
| Free Arm | Yes | – |
| Working Light | Yes LED | Yes, 6 LEDs |
| Speed Control Slider | No | Yes |
| Weight | – | 25 lbs |
| Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | – | Yes |
| Snap-on Presser Foot | – | – |
| Automatic Thread Cutter | – | No |
| Automatic Needle Threader | No | Yes |
| Drop-in Bobbin | Yes | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | – | Yes |
| Stitch Selection | Dial | Push Button |
| Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | Yes | – |
| Included Feet | Buttonhole foot, Button Sewing foot, Zipper foot, Zigzag foot | Embroidery Foot, All Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot with Underplate, Blind Hem Foot, Satin Stitch Foot, Button Sewing Foot |
| Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | – | – |
| Tension | – | Automatic Tension |
| Knee Lifter | – | Yes |
| Warranty | 25 Year Limited | – |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Brother JX2517 Video Review
Singer XL-420 Video Review
The Verdict
The Brother JX2517 and the Singer XL-420 have a number of differences in terms of features. The stitch quality, however, is a common aspect. These two machines sew on a range of materials with reliable results. Any of these two machines would be my first choice if you asked me to choose an affordable, sophisticated sewing machine. I won’t offer a recommendation and the choice should be based on your sewing ability and experience.
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. 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 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. 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. How to use double needle on sewing machine
- STEP 1: PREP YOUR EDGE.
- STEP 2: PREP YOUR SEWING MACHINE.
- STEP 3: TEST ON A SCRAP OF FABRIC.
- STEP 4: SEW THE DOUBLE NEEDLE HEM.
Q. Can i use serger thread in my sewing machine
A. Do not use serger thread in your sewing machine. These spools of thread are tempting to buy because they’re inexpensive, but they have a very rough texture on the thread. So if you put it in your regular sewing machine, it’s going to break and jam and you’ll be really frustrated.
