In this comparison, we are going to compare one of the most popular affordable sewing machines, the Brother XM1010 and Singer 5625. What made these two sewing machines stand out was that they were packed with features in an affordable range combined with excellent stitch quality.
What are the major differences between the two? Below I will describe the differences in the simplest terms possible.
Table of Contents
Brother XM1010 vs. Singer 5625: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
The Brother XM1010 is a mechanical sewing machine, while the Singer 5625 is a computerized sewing machine. Since the machine types decide they differ a lot in features, I won’t make a suggestion.
The decision has to be made on an individual level.
Brother XM1010 vs. Singer 5625 : Built-in Stitches
With Brother XM1010, you get an attractive amount of stitches – 10 to be exact. The 10 stitches include standard stitches, decorative stitches, and buttonhole stitches. As for Singer 5625, it contains 227. These stitches include standard and decorative stitches, which are similar to those found on the Brother XM1010.
Start/Stop Button
Neither Brother XM1010 sewing machine nor Singer 5625 sewing machine has a start/stop button. This might not be convenient for a novice to sew effectively.
Speed Control Slider
Neither Brother XM1010 sewing machine nor Singer 5625 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 Singer 5625 has one while the Brother XM1010 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 XM1010 and the Singer 5625 come with this user-friendly feature.
Free Arm
There is free arm on both the Brother XM1010 and the Singer 5625. 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 XM1010 | Singer 5625 | |
Product Image | ||
Sewing Machine Type | Mechanical | Electronic |
Stitches | 10 | 227 |
Buttonhole Styles | 1 4-step | 6 one-step |
Start/Stop Button | No | No |
Built-in Memory | No | Yes |
Programmable Needle Up/Down | No | Yes |
Monogramming Font | No | Yes |
Drop Feed | No, Free-motion is possible with darning plate. | Yes |
Free Arm | Yes | Yes |
Working Light | Yes 1 LED | Yes 3 LEDs |
Speed Control Slider | No | No |
Weight | 10.8 lbs | – |
Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | – | Yes |
Snap-on Presser Foot | Yes | Yes |
Automatic Thread Cutter | No | – |
Automatic Needle Threader | No | Yes |
Drop-in Bobbin | Yes | Yes |
USB Connectivity | No | – |
Stitch Selection | Dial | LCD and Push Button |
Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | – | Yes |
Included Feet | Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Zigzag foot, Zipper foot | General Purpose Foot (on machine), Satin Foot, Circular Sewing Foot, Zipper Foot, Blind Hem Foot, Buttonhole Foot with Underplate |
Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | No | – |
Tension | Adjustable with dial | Automatic Tension |
Knee Lifter | No | – |
Warranty | 25 Year Limited | – |
Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Brother XM1010 Video Review
Singer 5625 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. 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. What are features to look for in a sewing machine?
A. The best features will depend on the type of sewing you plan to do. For a beginner, some features to look for include built-in stitch types, an automatic needle threader, a top drop-in bobbin, and a set of standard presser feet.
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 a regular sewing machine sew vinyl?
A. Yes, with the same modifications listed above for leather.
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. Why use a walking foot on a sewing machine
A. A walking foot helps move knit fabrics evenly so they don’t stretch out of shape. The walking foot eliminates the need for excessive pinning when working with slippery fabrics. That is especially useful because most of those slippery fabrics, such as satin, are easily damaged by pins.