Choosing the right sewing machine can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re faced with numerous models boasting different features. If you’re considering a Brother sewing machine, you’re in good company. Brother is a well-respected brand known for its reliability and user-friendly designs. Today, we’re diving deep into a Compare Brother Sewing Machines showdown, pitting two popular models against each other: the Brother LX3817A (a mechanical machine) and the Brother SQ9185 (and its virtually identical counterpart, the XR9550, a computerized machine). Whether you’re a beginner just starting your sewing journey or an experienced crafter looking to understand the nuances between these models, this detailed comparison will guide you to make the best choice for your sewing needs.
Brother LX vs. SQ/XR Series: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Brother LX3817A (LX Series) | Brother SQ9185 / XR9550 (SQ/XR Series) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Mechanical | Computerized |
| Number of Stitches | 17 | 130 (including 55 alphanumeric) |
| Buttonhole Options | 1 (4-step) | 8 (1-step automatic) |
| Maximum Sewing Speed | 850 stitches per minute | 850 stitches per minute |
| Dimensions (H x D x W) | 12.13″ x 5.75″ x 15.43″ | 11.48″ x 6.69″ x 16.02″ |
| Accessory Feet Included | 4 | 10 |
| Needle Threading | Manual | Automatic |
| Needle Up/Down Button | No | Yes |
| Start/Stop Button | No | Yes |
| Wide Table Extension | No | Yes (Included) |
| Speed Control | No | Variable (3 settings) |
| Display | Manual Dial | Backlit LCD Screen |
| Approximate Price | ~$100 | ~$230 |
*Features described in detail below to help you compare Brother sewing machines effectively.
Computerized vs. Mechanical: The Core Difference
The most significant difference when you compare brother sewing machines LX3817A and SQ9185/XR9550 lies in their operation: one is mechanical, and the other is computerized. This distinction impacts the sewing experience from the moment you power them on.
Both machines feature a built-in light that illuminates your workspace when switched on. However, the computerized SQ9185/XR9550 adds a digital element by emitting a beep-boop-beep sound as it initializes and defaults to stitch setting “00.”
When it comes to actual sewing, both machines respond to the foot pedal, starting to stitch when pressure is applied. However, the computerized SQ/XR series offers a notable advantage: adjustable speed control. A slider allows you to limit the maximum sewing speed, a fantastic feature for beginners or when working on intricate projects requiring more precision.
Another key difference emerges when you lift your foot from the pedal. The computerized SQ/XR models intelligently complete the current stitch and automatically stop with the needle in the down position within the fabric. This needle-down feature is incredibly useful for pivoting fabric, pausing your sewing without losing your place, and ensuring smooth corners. In contrast, the mechanical LX3817A stops immediately when you release the pedal, with the needle stopping wherever it happens to be in its cycle.
For added convenience, the SQ/XR series includes a dedicated needle up/down button. A simple press raises the needle to its highest position, making it effortless to remove your fabric. This seemingly small feature is a significant time-saver and enhances workflow efficiency, especially for tasks that involve frequent fabric manipulation.
Stitch Variety and Buttonhole Capabilities
When we compare brother sewing machines in terms of stitch options, the difference is stark. The Brother LX3817A offers a practical selection of 17 stitches. These include essential straight stitches in various lengths and needle positions, zigzag stitches, and utility stitches like blind hem, elastic, shell tuck, double action, and bridging stitches. These stitches cover basic sewing needs and are suitable for simple projects and repairs.
On the other hand, the Brother SQ9185/XR9550 dramatically expands your creative possibilities with 130 built-in stitches, including 55 alphanumeric stitches. This extensive stitch library includes a wide array of decorative stitches for embellishing projects, quilting patterns, and more. Many decorative stitches on the SQ/XR also offer a mirroring function, allowing you to reverse the stitch orientation for symmetrical designs. The alphanumeric stitches enable you to add personalized touches by sewing letters and numbers, perfect for labeling handmade items or creating custom monograms.
Buttonhole creation is another area where these machines diverge significantly. The LX3817A features a single 4-step buttonhole. This means you need to manually adjust the stitch settings through four steps to create a complete buttonhole. It requires a bit more manual involvement and practice to achieve consistent results.
The SQ9185/XR9550 elevates buttonhole sewing with 8 automatic 1-step buttonhole styles. With 1-step buttonholes, you simply place your button in the buttonhole foot, select the desired style, and the machine sews a perfectly sized buttonhole in a single step. This feature is a game-changer for garment sewing, ensuring professional-looking buttonholes with ease and precision.
Selecting stitches is also handled differently. The LX3817A employs a manual dial for stitch selection, a straightforward and traditional approach. The SQ9185/XR9550 utilizes buttons and a backlit LCD screen, providing a modern and user-friendly interface for navigating the extensive stitch menu and making setting adjustments.
Needles, Presser Feet, and Included Accessories
Both brother sewing machines come equipped with essential needles and presser feet, but the SQ9185/XR9550 offers added convenience and versatility.
A standout feature of the SQ/XR series is automatic needle threading. While it’s technically “assisted” rather than fully automatic, it significantly simplifies the often-fiddly task of threading the needle. A small lever lowers a mechanism that hooks the thread and pulls it through the needle eye. This feature is particularly beneficial for those with vision challenges or anyone who appreciates a quicker start to their sewing projects. The LX3817A relies on traditional manual needle threading.
In terms of included presser feet, the LX3817A comes with 4 essential feet: a buttonhole foot, a zipper foot, a zigzag foot (general purpose), and a button sewing foot. These feet cover the basics for general sewing and garment construction.
The SQ9185/XR9550 significantly expands your accessory options with 10 included presser feet: zigzag, monogramming, overcasting, zipper, blind stitch, button sewing, buttonhole, ¼” piecing foot (for quilting), a walking foot (for even fabric feed), and a spring action quilting foot (for free-motion quilting). This generous set of feet immediately broadens the range of projects you can tackle, particularly for quilting and decorative sewing.
Importantly, both machines are compatible with a wide range of readily available accessory feet that can be purchased separately, allowing you to further customize either machine to suit specific sewing needs and techniques.
Start/Stop Button and Enhanced Control
The Brother SQ9185/XR9550 includes a start/stop button, a feature absent on the LX3817A. This button provides an alternative way to control the machine without using the foot pedal. By pressing the start/stop button, the machine begins sewing at a speed determined by the speed control slider, and pressing it again stops the machine.
This feature is invaluable in several situations. It’s perfect for sewers who prefer hand-controlled sewing, or for those with mobility limitations that make foot pedal operation challenging. It also provides consistent stitching speed for tasks where precision and evenness are crucial, such as long seams or intricate decorative stitching.
Extra Features: Wide Table and Feed Dog Control
The SQ9185/XR9550 further distinguishes itself with additional features designed to enhance usability and versatility. It includes a wide table extension, a detachable, large, flat surface that slides onto the machine. This extension table provides significantly more workspace, which is especially beneficial when working on large projects like quilts, curtains, or bulky garments. The LX3817A does not include a wide table.
For quilting enthusiasts, the SQ/XR series offers the ability to drop the feed dogs. Feed dogs are the small, toothed components beneath the presser foot that grip and advance the fabric as you sew. For free-motion quilting, where you move the fabric manually to create designs, disengaging the feed dogs is essential. The SQ/XR allows you to easily drop the feed dogs, giving you complete control over fabric movement for creative quilting techniques. While technically possible on the LX, it’s not designed with easy feed dog drop functionality.
Dimensions and Sewing Speed: Similarities
When you compare brother sewing machines in terms of physical size and speed, the differences are minimal.
- LX3817A Dimensions: 12.13″ (H) x 5.75″ (D) x 15.43″ (W)
- SQ9185/XR9550 Dimensions: 11.48″ (H) x 6.69″ (D) x 16.02″ (W)
The size difference is negligible, making both machines suitable for most sewing spaces.
Both models share the same maximum sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute. For beginners and most home sewing projects, this speed is more than adequate. While higher speeds are available in specialized machines like the Brother PQ1600S (1,500 SPM) or industrial machines, speed is unlikely to be a deciding factor when choosing between the LX3817A and SQ9185/XR9550.
Which Brother Sewing Machine Should You Choose?
Deciding which Brother sewing machine is “better” truly depends on your individual needs, sewing aspirations, and budget. Let’s break down recommendations to help you compare brother sewing machines and make the right choice:
Choose the Brother LX3817A (or LX Series) if:
- You’re on a tight budget: The LX series is significantly more affordable, making it an excellent entry-level option.
- You’re a beginner or occasional sewer: If you’re just starting out, or only plan to sew occasionally for basic mending and simple projects, the LX3817A provides all the essential functions without overwhelming complexity.
- You need a machine for a young sewer (ages 10-16): Its simplicity and robust mechanical design make it a great learning machine for younger sewers.
Choose the Brother SQ9185/XR9550 (or SQ/XR Series) if:
- You’re an enthusiastic beginner ready to learn and grow: If you’re serious about sewing and eager to explore different techniques and projects, the SQ/XR series offers features that will support your development and creativity.
- You sew garments or plan to: The automatic 1-step buttonholes are a major advantage for garment sewing, saving time and ensuring professional results.
- You want a wider range of stitches and features: The extensive stitch library, automatic needle threading, speed control, and included accessory feet significantly expand your sewing possibilities.
- You anticipate quilting or larger projects: The included wide table and feed dog drop capability make the SQ/XR series suitable for quilting and handling bulky fabrics.
- You’re upgrading from a basic mechanical machine: If you’ve outgrown a simpler machine and are ready for more features and automation, the SQ/XR series is a worthwhile upgrade.
Conclusion
When you compare brother sewing machines LX3817A and SQ9185/XR9550, it’s clear that both are capable machines, but they cater to different user needs and budgets. The Brother LX3817A is a reliable and affordable mechanical machine ideal for beginners and basic sewing tasks. The Brother SQ9185/XR9550, with its computerized features, extensive stitch options, and added accessories, provides a more versatile and user-friendly sewing experience, justifying its higher price point for those ready to invest in expanded capabilities. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual sewing journey and what features align with your creative goals.
