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5 Best Portable Sewing Machines in 2022 (Singer, Janome, and More)

Sewing machines used to be entire tables, and many high-powered ones still are. But sometimes you just need a light, portable machine for smaller jobs. That’s why we decided to look into what makes a great portable sewing machine.

In our research, we found that the best machines can sew through most fabrics despite their smaller size. They also have a variety of stitches and can reverse stitch as well. Of course, they should also fit your size needs. Keeping these things in mind, we’ve handpicked our favorite portable sewing machines available online.
Last updated 09/26/2023
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Table of Contents

How to Choose Portable Sewing Machines

Figuring out what portable sewing machine is right for you is mostly about deciding what you need.
1

Ensure Your Machine Has the Stitches You Need

Ensure Your Machine Has the Stitches You Need
One of the first things you should look at when choosing a sewing machine is how many (and what kind of) stitches it can do. 

For quick, on-the-go repairs, maybe a small machine that only does a simple running stitch is enough. On the other hand, there are also portable-sized machines that can do up to 20 or more different stitches, but these tend to be much larger and heavier.


So think about how you’ll use it before just going for the most decked-out option. You may also want to check for a reverse stitch option, which lets you go back over your stitches to prevent unraveled seams.

2

Look at Size, Weight, and Convenience

Look at Size, Weight, and Convenience
There are two main types of portable sewing machines: ones that just look like smaller versions of regular machines, and ones that are handheld and resemble more of a stapler. 

The handheld ones are naturally more portable, but they have much more limited functionality and can be harder to use. They also tend to be weaker and may not stitch through thick fabrics.


Larger machines will be able to do much more, more easily, but they can weigh up to 19 pounds. Depending on your needs and capabilities, this may not even be considered portable. 

If you do opt for a larger machine, make sure that it has a free arm—that is, make sure you can deconstruct the base to reveal a narrow working area. You can slip tubes of fabric over the free arm, ensuring you don’t accidentally sew a sleeve shut.

3

Consider Power Source When Judging Portability

Consider Power Source When Judging Portability
Portable sewing machines can either be battery-powered or plugged into an outlet. Battery-powered machines are much more portable, but they can be weaker than plugged machines and require changing or recharging. On the other hand, a plugged machine will be more powerful but does require proximity to an outlet.
4

Need More Functionality? Look for Other Important Features

Need More Functionality? Look for Other Important Features
If you’re looking for more convenience or functionality, be sure to check what else the machine can do. Some portable machines also come with an automatic needle threader, additional sewing feet, settings designed for certain stitch buttons such as buttons or hems, and even instructional pamphlets or DVDs.
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5 Best Portable Sewing Machines Ranking

Here are the best Portable Sewing Machines, ranked according to 5 Best Portable Sewing Machines (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Singer

Singer Start 1304 Sewing Machine for Beginners1304

Singer Singer Start 1304 Sewing Machine for Beginners 1

$73.12

High Mid

A Simple Sewing Machine That's Perfect for Beginners

2

Jeteven

Brother GX37 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine

Jeteven Brother GX37 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine 1

$16.99

Low Mid

The Definition of Portable

3

Jinlongshan

KPCB Mini Sewing Machine

Jinlongshan KPCB Mini Sewing Machine 1

$29.95

Low Mid

A Very Budget-Friendly Sewing Machine

4

Brother

Brother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine with 27 StitchesXM2701

Brother Brother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine with 27 Stitches 1

$84.99

High Mid

Best Balance of Portability and Function

5

Janome

Janome Basic Sewing Machine

Janome Janome Basic Sewing Machine 1

$54.27

Mid

A Portable Sewing Machine that Kids Can Use

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

SingerSinger Start 1304 Sewing Machine for Beginners1304

Singer Start 1304 Sewing Machine for Beginners 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$73.12
High Mid
Reference price
$73.12
High Mid

A Simple Sewing Machine That's Perfect for Beginners

This simple sewing machine covers just the basics but does it very well. It comes with just six stitches, all with preset widths and lengths, making for hassle-free sewing for beginners or those on the go.

Reviewers write that the instructions are easy to follow and that even beginners can be ready to start sewing in a matter of minutes. Do note that it does move rather quickly, so it’s best to start with a lighter touch on the pedal.
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No.2

JetevenBrother GX37 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine

Brother GX37 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$16.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$16.99
Low Mid

The Definition of Portable

It can't get much more portable than this. Jetway's handheld sewing machine is a device you can easily slip into your bag and fix things quickly on the go. So what if it only does one stitch and you have to knot it yourself? One stitch can still allow you to make pouches and scrunchies, hem jeans and skirts, and more.


Reviewers say it takes a few tries to get the hang of it, but they're more than pleased with the secure stitches they're left with when they finally do. Some have had problems with stitches coming undone or slippage while in use, but even total beginners were able to accomplish their quick fixes with this handy machine!

No.3

JinlongshanKPCB Mini Sewing Machine

KPCB Mini Sewing Machine 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$29.95
Low Mid
Reference price
$29.95
Low Mid

A Very Budget-Friendly Sewing Machine

This mini sewing machine weighs just under two pounds and is very travel-friendly. Though it’s small, it also comes with an extension table to give you a larger workspace.

Reviewers love the simplicity of this machine and write that it’s good for beginners. They also love this machine because of how easy it is to use and how high-quality it feels. It can’t handle thick materials or elastic, but it works well on nearly every kind of clothing fabric, making it good for quick mends and hems.
No.4

BrotherBrother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine with 27 StitchesXM2701

Brother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine with 27 Stitches 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$84.99
High Mid
Reference price
$84.99
High Mid

Best Balance of Portability and Function

This award-winning sewing machine includes basically everything that most people would need in a portable machine. It’s simple enough for beginners yet functional enough for more advanced sewers.

Reviewers love this machine because of how easy it is to use and how high-quality it feels. Several of the most enthusiastic reviewers were dads learning to sew for the first time in order to mend kids’ clothes.
No.5

JanomeJanome Basic Sewing Machine

Janome Basic Sewing Machine 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$54.27
Mid
Reference price
$54.27
Mid

A Portable Sewing Machine that Kids Can Use

This adorable sewing machine weighs just five pounds and comes in 10 different colors. It’s has a surprising amount of functions despite its size, including 18 stitches and reverse stitch capability.

Reviewers write that it’s the perfect size for kids learning to sew and also makes a good option for those who don’t want to spend a lot on a first sewing machine. However, some report that it can be prone to breaking, so keep that in mind.

Get Creative with More Projects and Tools!

Maybe you see a sewing machine as a necessity, or maybe it's a long-time hobby of yours. Here are some more suggestions to keep your hands busy and your mind creative.

Top 5 Portable Sewing Machines

No. 1: SingerSinger Start 1304 Sewing Machine for Beginners1304

No. 2: JetevenBrother GX37 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine

No. 3: JinlongshanKPCB Mini Sewing Machine

No. 4: BrotherBrother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine with 27 StitchesXM2701

No. 5: JanomeJanome Basic Sewing Machine

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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