In this comparison, we are going to compare one of the most popular affordable sewing machines, the Brother XR3774 and Singer 5532. 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 main differences between them? Allow me to simplify my answers here.
Table of Contents
Brother XR3774 vs. Singer 5532: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
Both Brother XR3774 and Singer 5532 are mechanical sewing machines. Although a mechanical sewing machine has fewer stitch options than a computerized one, they are easier to maintain and cost less.
Brother XR3774 vs. Singer 5532 : Built-in Stitches
The Brother XR3774 comes with an attractive amount of built-in stitches, 37 to be exact. Within those 37 stitches you can find standard stitches, decorative stitches and easy-to-use buttonhole stitches. While the Singer 5532 features 32 stitches. Similar to the Brother XR3774, these stitches include standard and decorative stitches.
Weight
The Brother XR3774 sewing machine weighs approximately 12.3 lbs, while the Singer 5532 comes with a weight of 14.5 lbs.
When you don’t have a specific spot in your home where your sewing machine belongs, the extra weight can become burdensome.
Start/Stop Button
Neither Brother XR3774 sewing machine nor Singer 5532 sewing machine has a start/stop button. This might not be convenient for a novice to sew effectively.
Speed Control Slider
Neither Brother XR3774 nor Singer 5532 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
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 XR3774 and the Singer 5532 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 XR3774 and the Singer 5532. 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 XR3774 | Singer 5532 | |
| Product Image | |
|
| Sewing Machine Type | Mechanical | Mechanical |
| Stitches | 37 | 32 |
| Buttonhole Styles | 1 one-step | 1 one-step |
| Start/Stop Button | No | No |
| Built-in Memory | No | – |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | No | No |
| Monogramming Font | No | No |
| Drop Feed | No (Free-motion is possible only with a darning plate) | Yes |
| Free Arm | Yes | Yes |
| Working Light | Yes | – |
| Speed Control Slider | No | No |
| Weight | 12.3 lbs | 14.5 lbs |
| Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | – | Yes |
| Snap-on Presser Foot | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Thread Cutter | No | – |
| Automatic Needle Threader | Yes | Yes |
| Drop-in Bobbin | Yes | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | No | – |
| Stitch Selection | Dial | Dial |
| Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | Yes | Yes |
| Included Feet | Blind stitch foot, Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Narrow hemmer foot, Walking foot, Quilting foot, Zigzag foot, Zipper foot | All-Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Button Sewing Foot |
| Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | No | – |
| Tension | Adjustable With Dial | – |
| Knee Lifter | No | – |
| Warranty | 25 Year Limited | 25 Year Limited |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Brother XR3774 Video Review
Singer 5532 Video Review
The Verdict
These two sewing machines, both made by excellent businesses, are tough to pick between. After comparing their features, my general suggestion is to go with the machine that has more built-in stitches at a lower price.
Q. Are sewing machines dangerous?
A. Like any machine, a sewing machine can be dangerous if not used correctly. Always follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer when it comes to maintenance, and pay attention while sewing.
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. 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 normal sewing machine sew canvas?
A. Yes, canvas can be sewn on a regular sewing machine.
Q. How do I thread a sewing machine?
To get started with your sewing project, you’ll need to first thread your sewing machine. While your machine’s manual should guide you in the specific sequence for your make and model, the basic process starts by placing the presser foot in the up position.
Next, put your thread spool on the spool holder and bring the thread across the top of the machine, through the thread guide. Insert the thread through the tension mechanism, sliding it between the metal disks before pulling it back upwards. Find the take-up lever and place the thread into the hole. Pull the thread towards the sewing machine needle, using available thread guides as you go.
Finally, bring the needle into an accessible position by adjusting the handwheel. Insert the thread. Your sewing machine should be threaded and ready to go, but it’s always a good idea to make a test run on a sample swatch to check your work.
However, if you sewing machine comes with an automatic needle threader, that would save you lots of time.
