In this comparison, we are going to compare one of the most popular affordable sewing machines, the Singer 9985 and Singer S800. 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
Singer 9985 vs. Singer S800: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
Singer 9985 and Singer S800 are both computerized sewing machines. Computerized sewing machines allow you to save new patterns and stitch types to the onboard memory. It is possible for users to create their own stitches, or even patterns, depending on the machine they work with.
You might be surprised to learn that digital machines are one of the easiest to operate. They were designed to make life simpler. Their purpose was to make the process of making clothes easier and faster.
Singer 9985 vs. Singer S800 : Built-in Stitches
With Singer 9985, you get an attractive amount of stitches – 960 to be exact. The 960 stitches include standard stitches, decorative stitches, and buttonhole stitches. As for Singer S800 sewing machine, it contains 100. These stitches include standard and decorative stitches, which are similar to those found on the Singer 9985.
Weight
The Singer 9985 weighs approximately 20 lbs, while the Singer S800 comes with a weight of 14.8 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 9985 sewing machine and Singer S800 sewing machine 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 9985 sewing machine and Singer S800 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 9985 sewing machine and the Singer S800 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 9985 and Singer S800 come equipped with a drop feed system, which grabs the fabric and moves it along through the machine.
Free Arm
There is free arm on both the Singer 9985 and the Singer S800. 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.
Extra High Presser Foot Lifter
The extra-high presser foot lifter of the Singer 9985 and Singer S800 allows you to adjust the height, as needed for large sewing projects or multiple layers of thick materials.
| Singer 9985 | Singer S800 | |
| Product Image | |
|
| Sewing Machine Type | Computerized | Computerized |
| Stitches | 960 | 100 |
| Buttonhole Styles | 13 one-step | 6 one-step |
| Start/Stop Button | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Memory | Yes | – |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes | Yes |
| Monogramming Font | Yes, 6 | No |
| Drop Feed | Yes | Yes |
| Free Arm | Yes | Yes |
| Working Light | Yes, LED | Yes |
| Speed Control Slider | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 20 lbs | 14.8 lbs |
| Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | Yes | Yes |
| Snap-on Presser Foot | Yes | – |
| Automatic Thread Cutter | Yes | – |
| Automatic Needle Threader | Yes | Yes |
| Drop-in Bobbin | Yes | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | – | – |
| Stitch Selection | Touch Screen | LCD and Push Button |
| Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | Automatic (with override option) | Yes |
| Included Feet | All-Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Button Sewing Foot, Blind Hem Foot, Satin Stitch Foot, Open Toe Foot, Overcasting Foot, Darning & Embroidery Foot, Rolled Hem Foot, Cording Foot, Straight Stitch, Even Feed Foot | – |
| Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | Yes | – |
| Tension | Automatic (with override option) | Automatic Tension |
| Knee Lifter | – | – |
| Warranty | 25 Year Limited | – |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Singer 9985 Video Review
Singer S800 Video Review
The Verdict
Both machines are neck and neck when it comes to performance. The stitch quality is very similar between the two machines. They are capable of handling heavy and delicate fabrics with ease. It is the stitch quality of these two machines that differentiates them from other machines in their segment. Based on the features listed above, we believe you will be able to make a decision on your own. The final decision is yours.
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.
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. 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 a normal sewing machine sew canvas?
A. Yes, canvas can be sewn on a regular sewing machine.
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. 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.
