Cheap Embroidery Machines: The 5 Best in 2025!

Are you ready to dive into the world of embroidery but worried about the costs of high-end machines? You’re not alone. Starting your embroidery journey can feel overwhelming, especially when you see the price tags on premium models. The good news is that you don’t have to break the bank to get a high-quality machine. There are plenty of cheap embroidery machines in 2025 that deliver impressive results without burning a hole in your wallet.

At Genius Digitizing, we specialize in affordable, high-quality embroidery digitizing solutions. Whether you’re a hobbyist just starting out or a business owner looking to expand your embroidery capabilities, we’ve got you covered. 

Let’s jump into the details!

What to Look for When Choosing a Cheap Embroidery Machine?

Before we dive into the specifics of each machine, let’s take a moment to review some key factors to consider when shopping for a cheap embroidery machine:

1. Combination vs. Embroidery-Only Machine

• Combination Machines: These machines can sew and embroider, making them ideal if you need versatility. They save space and are great for beginners or those who want to explore both crafts.
• Embroidery-Only Machines: Dedicated to embroidery, these machines tend to have more robust features for embroidery-specific tasks, making them a great choice if you're focused solely on stitching beautiful designs.

2. Embroidery Hoop Size

The size of your embroidery hoop determines the scale of your projects. A larger hoop size gives you more freedom to work on bigger designs without rehooping. However, keep in mind that larger hoops generally cost more.

3. Automatic Features

Look for machines that offer automatic thread trimming, jump stitch trimming, and easy threading systems. These features can save you time and improve the quality of your embroidery.

4. Tech Savviness

Entry-level machines are typically easier to use, with basic features that don’t require much technical knowledge. If you’re not familiar with computerized embroidery, start with a user-friendly model and work your way up as you gain more experience.

The 5 Best Cheap Embroidery Machines in 2025

Now, let’s take a closer look at the 5 best cheap embroidery machines that will help you create stunning designs without breaking the bank.

1. Brother PE800 Embroidery Machine

The Brother PE800 is one of the most popular entry-level embroidery machines on the market. It offers a spacious 5"x7" hoop, making it ideal for medium to large projects. It’s perfect for beginners and small business owners looking for an affordable yet capable embroidery machine.

Key Features:

• Embroidery Field: 5"x7"
• Embroidery Designs: 138 built-in designs
• USB Connectivity: Allows you to import custom designs
• Maximum Speed: 650 stitches per minute
• LCD Touchscreen: Easy-to-use interface for design editing

The Brother PE800 offers a generous number of built-in designs, including 11 fonts, 10 frames, and 14 borders. The USB port makes it easy to transfer custom designs from your computer or a USB stick. Plus, the intuitive LCD touchscreen lets you preview and adjust designs before you start stitching, making the process hassle-free.

If you’re looking for a versatile, budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice performance, the Brother PE800 is a great choice. Plus, it’s backed by a well-established brand known for its reliability.

2. Brother PE535 Embroidery Machine

If you're on a tighter budget but still want to get into embroidery, the Brother PE535 is a fantastic option. It’s compact, affordable, and packed with features that make it easy to start your embroidery journey.

Key Features:

• Embroidery Field: 4"x4"
• Embroidery Designs: 80 built-in designs
• USB Connectivity: Import your own designs via USB
• LCD Display: 3.2-inch color touchscreen for easy design edits

The PE535 features a 4"x4" embroidery field, which is perfect for smaller projects like monogramming or customizing garments. While the hoop size is smaller than the PE800, it’s more than sufficient for a beginner. The machine comes with 80 built-in designs and 9 fonts, allowing you to start designing right out of the box.

The PE535 is lightweight and easy to set up, making it a great option for beginners or hobbyists who want to experiment with embroidery without a big upfront investment.

3. Janome Memory Craft 400E Embroidery Machine

The Janome Memory Craft 400E is a step up from typical entry-level machines. It offers more advanced features while still being reasonably priced for beginners who are ready to invest in a machine with a little more capability.

Key Features:

• Embroidery Field: 7.9"x7.9"
• Embroidery Designs: 160 built-in designs
• USB Connectivity: Import designs via USB
• Maximum Speed: 860 stitches per minute
• Advanced Features: Automatic thread trimming, easy threading system

With a 7.9"x7.9" hoop, the Memory Craft 400E gives you the flexibility to work on larger designs without rehooping. This machine is embroidery-only, meaning it’s built for embroidery tasks and is more focused than combination machines.

The 160 built-in designs give you plenty of creative freedom right out of the box. You can also import your own custom designs via the USB port and use the machine’s advanced editing features to tweak designs on the LCD touchscreen.

This machine’s ability to work at speeds of up to 860 stitches per minute means you can complete larger projects in less time.

4. Brother SE600 Combination Sewing and Embroidery Machine

If you’re looking for both sewing and embroidery functions in one machine, the Brother SE600 is a great budget-friendly choice. It combines the best of both worlds with a compact design and user-friendly interface.

Key Features:

• Embroidery Field: 4"x4"
• Embroidery Designs: 80 built-in designs
• Stitch Options: 103 built-in stitches
• Maximum Sewing Speed: 710 stitches per minute
• LCD Touchscreen: Color touchscreen for design editing

The Brother SE600 offers 80 built-in embroidery designs and 103 stitches for sewing. Whether you’re sewing garments or creating embroidery on fabric, this combination machine provides all the tools you need.

The SE600 is equipped with a 4"x4" embroidery field, making it great for smaller, more detailed projects. The color LCD touchscreen makes editing and previewing your designs a breeze. Additionally, the automatic needle threader and automatic bobbin winding features save you time, making it easier to focus on your embroidery designs.

5. Bernette 70 Deco Embroidery Machine

For those who want professional features on a budget, the Bernette 70 Deco is an excellent choice. It offers an expansive 5"x7" embroidery field, making it great for larger projects, and comes with a host of features that make it easy to use.

Key Features:

• Embroidery Field: 5"x7"
• Embroidery Designs: 208 built-in designs
• Maximum Speed: 800 stitches per minute
• USB Connectivity: Allows easy design transfer

With 208 built-in designs and 7 monogramming fonts, the Bernette 70 Deco offers plenty of creative freedom for a low price. The USB connectivity allows you to import custom designs, while the machine’s 800 stitches per minute speed ensures faster production for larger projects.

It’s an ideal choice for those who want a machine that’s affordable yet offers high-end features typically found in more expensive models.

Why Choose Cheap Embroidery Machines?

Investing in a cheap embroidery machine doesn't mean sacrificing quality. The machines listed above offer excellent features for their price, making them perfect for beginners, hobbyists, or small business owners looking to start or grow their embroidery venture.

1. Affordability

A cheap embroidery machine allows you to start your embroidery journey without the huge financial commitment of high-end models. This is especially important if you’re not sure how much you’ll use the machine initially.

2. Ease of Use

These affordable machines are designed to be user-friendly, with simple interfaces and setup processes. Many offer touchscreens for easy design editing, as well as automatic features that save you time.

3. Versatility

While you may not have the same advanced features as more expensive models, cheap embroidery machines still offer a lot of versatility. With built-in designs, customizable options, and USB connectivity, they give you the freedom to create unique, professional-looking designs.

4. Long-Term Investment

A budget-friendly machine can be a great long-term investment. As you improve your skills, many of these machines allow for upgrades like additional hoops or more advanced design features, making them scalable for your growing embroidery needs.

Conclusion

The right cheap embroidery machine can unlock a world of creative possibilities without putting a strain on your budget. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your business, these machines offer excellent value and performance for their price.

At Genius Digitizing, we provide high-quality embroidery digitizing services and solutions to help you bring your creative designs to life. With the right tools and expert guidance, you can achieve professional-level embroidery without the hefty price tag.

Choose the best embroidery machine for your needs, and get started on your embroidery journey today!

FAQs

1. How can a cheap embroidery machine kickstart my business?

A cheap embroidery machine lets you start small, offering custom products like shirts and hats. It’s an affordable way to test the market, build your brand, and grow without a significant upfront investment.

2. How can I stand out with a budget embroidery machine?

Focus on personalized, high-demand items. Use your machine’s features to create unique designs that reflect your brand’s personality, setting you apart from competitors and building customer loyalty.

3. Can a budget embroidery machine handle large orders?

While not suited for high-volume orders right away, a budget machine is ideal for starting small. As your business grows, you can scale by adding more machines or upgrading to more industrial models.

4. How can embroidery software enhance my machine’s capabilities?

Pairing your machine with embroidery software allows you to create custom designs, offering your clients unique options and increasing the perceived value of your products.

5. How do I maintain high quality with a low-cost embroidery machine?

Use quality materials and perform regular maintenance on your machine. Consistent upkeep ensures your budget machine delivers professional results, helping maintain your brand’s reputation.