Brother GX37 vs XM2701 Sewing Machine: A Comparison

When it comes to finding the right sewing machine, Brother is a trusted brand that consistently delivers user-friendly models packed with essential features. The Brother GX37 and XM2701 are two such machines that cater to both beginners and more experienced sewers alike. Whether you’re looking to complete basic repairs or dive into more advanced projects like quilting or garment making, these machines offer a variety of options to suit your needs. In this report, we’ll compare the Brother GX37 and XM2701 across key features, performance, and value to help you choose the perfect model for your sewing adventures.

1. Brother GX37 Sewing Machine

The Brother GX37 Sewing Machine is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and user-friendly option for their everyday sewing needs. With 37 built-in stitches, this machine offers a variety of options for both decorative and utility purposes. Whether you’re working on garments, quilting, or other fabric projects, the GX37 provides versatility with ease of use. The automatic needle threader is a standout feature, saving time and reducing frustration, while the jam-resistant drop-in bobbin system ensures smooth sewing experiences. Additionally, the free arm functionality makes it easy to sew smaller, hard-to-reach areas like cuffs and hems. This machine is ideal for both beginners and more experienced sewers, as it comes with a comprehensive instructional DVD and a wide range of accessories.

However, the GX37 is not without its drawbacks. While it’s lightweight and portable, some users have reported durability issues, with certain components breaking within a year. The noise level can also be inconsistent, with some users finding it louder than expected. Nevertheless, the inclusion of six different sewing feet and a user-friendly dial for stitch selection make it a solid option for those looking for a versatile and affordable machine.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. 37 built-in stitches, including decorative and utility options.
2. Automatic needle threader for ease of use.
3. Jam-resistant, drop-in top bobbin.
4. Versatile free arm for smaller sewing projects.
5. Includes 6 different sewing feet and other essential accessories.

Pros:

1. Easy to use, especially for beginners.
2. Wide range of built-in stitches for various projects.
3. Lightweight and portable, making it easy to move around.
4. Automatic needle threader saves time.
5. Comprehensive customer support from Brother.

Cons:

1. Some users experience durability issues after a short period of use.

2. Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine

The Brother XM2701 sewing machine is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced sewers alike, offering a wide array of features in a lightweight and user-friendly design. With 27 built-in stitches, including decorative, blind hem, and stretch stitches, it provides ample options for a variety of projects, from simple repairs to more complex quilting tasks. The automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin are convenient features, streamlining the sewing process and reducing frustration for users. The free arm is another standout feature, making it easy to sew cuffs, sleeves, and pant legs. The machine is also portable, weighing just 12.6 pounds, which is perfect for those who need to move their machine between rooms or to sewing classes.

Despite its many strengths, the XM2701 does have some drawbacks. The build quality has received mixed reviews, with some users finding it sturdy and others feeling it is a bit flimsy. Additionally, while the stitch variety is vast, some customers have reported issues with skipped stitches, especially when working with thicker fabrics.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. 27 built-in stitches, including decorative, blind hem, and stretch stitches.
2. Automatic needle threader for ease of use.
3. Jam-resistant, Quick-Set top drop-in bobbin.
4. Versatile free arm for sewing smaller items like cuffs and sleeves.
5. Includes 6 sewing feet and a variety of other useful accessories.

Pros:

1. Lightweight and easy to transport.
2. Great for beginners with easy-to-follow instructions and setup.
3. Wide variety of stitches for different sewing projects.
4. Free arm functionality is ideal for smaller, tricky sewing projects.
5. Includes online customer support for the life of the machine.

Cons:

1. Occasional issues with skipped stitches, particularly on thicker fabrics.

Brother GX37 vs XM2701: A Comprehensive Comparison

When it comes to choosing a sewing machine, both the Brother GX37 and XM2701 offer appealing features for various sewing projects. While both are lightweight and ideal for beginners, they cater to different needs depending on the types of projects you plan to undertake.

Key Features Comparison

Both the Brother GX37 and XM2701 come with a good range of features that cater to both novice and experienced users. Below is a breakdown of the key features of each machine:

Feature	Brother GX37	Brother XM2701
Built-in Stitches	37 unique stitches	27 unique stitches
Automatic Needle Threader	Yes	Yes
Bobbin System	Drop-in top bobbin	Quick-Set top drop-in bobbin
Free Arm	Yes	Yes
Included Accessories	6 sewing feet, 3-piece needle set, DVD	6 sewing feet, needle set, twin needle, DVD
Weight	10.14 lbs	12.6 lbs
Warranty	25-year limited warranty	25-year limited warranty

Built-in Stitches

The Brother GX37 leads in terms of stitch variety, offering 37 built-in stitches compared to the XM2701’s 27. This gives users more options for decorative and utility stitches, making it a better choice for those who need a wide variety of stitches for different sewing tasks. The GX37 is ideal for users who plan on using the machine for more advanced or intricate projects. The XM2701, with fewer stitches, is still versatile but caters more to basic and everyday sewing needs.

Automatic Needle Threader and Bobbin System

Both machines come with an automatic needle threader, which is a convenient feature for beginners and experienced users alike. It simplifies the process of threading the needle and eliminates the frustration of eyeing the tiny hole. Additionally, both machines feature a drop-in top bobbin system, which ensures smooth, jam-resistant operation. While the GX37 uses a traditional drop-in top bobbin, the XM2701 boasts a “Quick-Set” bobbin system, which may offer slightly quicker setup for users.

Free Arm and Accessories

Both machines include a free arm, making it easy to sew smaller items such as cuffs and sleeves, which is particularly helpful for garment makers. In terms of included accessories, both machines come with six sewing feet (including buttonhole, zipper, and blind stitch feet). However, the XM2701 includes additional accessories, such as a twin needle, which the GX37 lacks. These extra accessories may make the XM2701 a more appealing option for those who want to experiment with various sewing techniques.

Performance and Ease of Use

The Brother GX37 is slightly lighter than the XM2701, weighing 10.14 lbs compared to the XM2701’s 12.6 lbs. This makes the GX37 more portable, which is a great advantage if you need to move the machine around or take it to sewing classes. Both machines are easy to use, especially for beginners. The GX37 has user-friendly stitch selection, with its dials and clearly printed stitch numbers, making it intuitive to pick your desired stitch. On the other hand, the XM2701 offers similar ease of use with a straightforward setup and helpful instructional DVD, but some users find the stitch selection dial on the GX37 slightly easier to navigate.

Durability and Build Quality

In terms of build quality, the Brother GX37 and XM2701 share some similarities. Both machines are made primarily of plastic, which keeps them lightweight but may not be as durable as metal-bodied models. While the GX37 receives generally positive feedback regarding its sturdiness, the XM2701’s build quality is a bit more mixed. Some users feel the XM2701 feels flimsy, while others appreciate its overall durability. It’s important to note that both models have a 25-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind for customers who need technical support or repairs.

Pros and Cons

Brother GX37 Pros:

• 37 built-in stitches for more variety in projects.
• Lightweight and portable, ideal for moving around.
• Comes with 6 sewing feet and comprehensive accessories.
• Easy-to-use stitch selection dial.
• 25-year limited warranty with strong customer support.

Brother GX37 Cons:

• Build quality may feel flimsy for some users.
• Not as many accessories as the XM2701 (no twin needle).
• A bit noisier than the XM2701 for some users.

Brother XM2701 Pros:

• Quick-Set top drop-in bobbin system.
• Additional accessories, including twin needle.
• Excellent value for the price.
• Free arm functionality for sewing smaller items.
• 25-year limited warranty and good customer support.

Brother XM2701 Cons:

• Fewer built-in stitches compared to the GX37.
• Some users report skipped stitches with thicker fabrics.
• Heavier than the GX37, making it less portable.

FAQ

What are the main differences between the Brother GX37 and XM2701?

The main differences between the Brother GX37 and XM2701 lie in their built-in stitches, accessories, and weight. The GX37 offers 37 built-in stitches, making it a better option for users looking for more variety in their sewing projects. It also has a lightweight design, weighing only 10.14 lbs, making it easy to carry around. On the other hand, the XM2701 has 27 built-in stitches, but it includes additional accessories such as a twin needle, which is not found with the GX37. The XM2701 weighs slightly more at 12.6 lbs, making it less portable but still suitable for everyday use.

Which machine is better for beginners?

Both the Brother GX37 and XM2701 are great options for beginners. The XM2701 might be slightly more beginner-friendly due to its simpler interface and the inclusion of helpful accessories like the instructional DVD and twin needle. The GX37, while also easy to use, offers a wider range of stitches, which might be more beneficial for users who want to expand their sewing skills in the future. If you’re just starting and prefer a straightforward machine for basic tasks, the XM2701 might be the better choice.

Can both machines handle thicker fabrics?

Both the Brother GX37 and XM2701 are capable of sewing through multiple layers of fabric. However, some users have reported issues with skipped stitches on thicker fabrics, especially with the XM2701. The GX37 may perform slightly better in this regard due to its additional stitch options and its ability to handle varying fabric types. While both machines are designed for everyday sewing tasks, heavy-duty or professional-grade projects may require a more robust model.

How does the warranty work for these sewing machines?

Both the Brother GX37 and XM2701 come with a 25-year limited warranty, offering users peace of mind with their purchase. The warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship and includes free technical support via online, live chat, or phone throughout the life of the machine. This means that if you encounter any issues or need assistance, you can rely on Brother’s customer support to help resolve them.

Are these machines suitable for quilting?

Both the Brother GX37 and XM2701 are capable of handling quilting projects, but the GX37 might be more suited for quilters due to its additional stitch options, including quilting-specific stitches. The free arm feature on both machines also makes it easier to work with small quilt pieces, like sleeves or cuffs. If you’re primarily interested in quilting, the GX37’s wider range of stitches might give you more creative freedom, while the XM2701 can still handle basic quilting tasks effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Brother GX37 and XM2701 are excellent choices for users looking for a reliable and affordable sewing machine. The GX37 is better suited for those who need a variety of stitches and a lightweight machine, making it perfect for more advanced sewing projects. On the other hand, the XM2701 provides a solid set of features at a lower price point and is ideal for those looking for essential, easy-to-use functionality, with the added benefit of a twin needle for more versatile sewing.