The Singer 9980 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
Singer 9980 vs. Singer XL-400: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
The Singer 9980 is a computerized 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.
The sewing machine you choose should be tailored to your skill level and goals.
Singer 9980 vs. Singer XL-400 : Built-in Stitches
With Singer 9980, you get an attractive amount of stitches – 820 to be exact. The 820 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 Singer 9980.
Weight
The Singer 9980 sewing machine weighs approximately 20 lbs, while the Singer XL-400 comes with a weight of 23 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
Both the Singer 9980 and Singer XL-400 come with a start/stop button. A start/stop button is an important accessibility feature. If you’re unable, for whatever reason, to use the foot pedal, a start/stop button allows you to run your sewing machine anyway. It’s also invaluable for making perfect one-step automatic buttonholes.
Speed Control Slider
Both Singer 9980 and Singer XL-400 sewing machine have a speed control slider, which 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 Singer 9980 sewing machine and the Singer XL-400 sewing machine come with this user-friendly feature.
Drop Feed
The most common type of feeding mechanism in a home sewing machine (and some industrial machines) is the drop feed, also known as the regular feed system. Both Singer 9980 and Singer XL-400 come equipped with a drop feed system, which grabs the fabric and moves it along through the machine.
Extra High Presser Foot Lifter
The extra-high presser foot lifter of the Singer 9980 and Singer XL-400 allows you to adjust the height, as needed for large sewing projects or multiple layers of thick materials.
Automatic Thread Cutter
If you hate cutting your threads after a sewing process, then a sewing machine that comes with an automatic thread cutter can be a lifesaver. Know that the Singer XL-400 does not have this feature. The Singer 9980, on the other hand, is equipped with an automatic thread cutter feature.
| Singer 9980 | Singer XL-400 | |
| Product Image | |
|
| Sewing Machine Type | Computerized | Sewing and Embroidery Combo |
| Stitches | 820 | 30 |
| Buttonhole Styles | 13 one-step | 2 one-step |
| Start/Stop Button | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Memory | Yes | – |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes | Yes |
| Monogramming Font | Yes, 5 | Yes, 5 |
| Drop Feed | Yes | Yes |
| Free Arm | Yes | – |
| Working Light | Yes, 2 LEDs | Yes, 6 LEDs |
| Speed Control Slider | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 20 lbs | 23 lbs |
| Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | Yes | Yes |
| Snap-on Presser Foot | Yes | – |
| Automatic Thread Cutter | Yes | No |
| Automatic Needle Threader | Yes | Yes |
| Drop-in Bobbin | Yes | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | – | Yes |
| Stitch Selection | LCD and Push Button | Push Button |
| Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | Automatic (with override option) | Yes |
| Included Feet | All-Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot with Exclusive Underplate, Blind Hem Foot, Satin Stitch Foot, Overcasting Foot, Darning / Embroidery Foot, Narrow Rolled Hem Foot, Button Sewing Foot, Quarter Inch Foot, Open Toe Foot, Even Feed / Walking Foot, Cording Foot | – |
| Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | Yes | Yes |
| Tension | Automatic (with override option) | – |
| Knee Lifter | – | – |
| Warranty | 25 Year Limited | 25 Year Limited |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Singer 9980 Video Review
Singer XL-400 Video Review
The Verdict
While both of these sewing machines are made by great businesses, choosing between them is tough. But my general suggestion is to go with the machine that has the most built-in stitches at a reasonable price.
Q. Can a regular sewing machine sew vinyl?
A. Yes, with the same modifications listed above for leather.
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 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.
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. 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. 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.
