Brother SM-2700 vs XM2701: Which Sewing Machine Is Best for You?

Choosing the right sewing machine can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available for beginners and hobbyists. Two of Brother’s most popular entry-level models—the SM-2700 and the XM2701—are often compared due to their similar features and affordable price tags. Both machines are compact, user-friendly, and versatile, making them ideal for home sewing projects. But which one is the better fit for your needs? In this report, we’ll break down their features, strengths, and limitations to help you make the best decision.

Brother SM-2700 Sewing Machine

The Brother SM-2700 sewing machine is a fantastic choice for both beginners and intermediate sewers. It offers a solid balance between functionality and ease of use. With 27 built-in stitches and 63 stitch functions, it allows for a wide range of projects—from basic hemming to light quilting and decorative sewing. The machine is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and store, yet it feels sturdy enough to handle thicker fabrics. The automatic needle threading system and the jam-resistant drop-in bobbin make setup and operation smooth, especially for those new to sewing. The included instructional DVD and multilingual manual are also very helpful for first-time users.

One of the standout features of the SM-2700 is its user-friendly design. The LED-lit work area improves visibility, and the six included presser feet allow for flexibility across different tasks like buttonholes and zippers. While the machine handles most materials well, it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty or professional-level sewing. Also, some users might find the plastic parts feel a bit less premium.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key features:

• 27 built-in stitches and 63 stitch functions
• 1-step automatic buttonhole
• Automatic needle threading system
• Jam-resistant drop-in bobbin
• LED-lit workspace

Pros:

• Easy to use, great for beginners
• Lightweight and portable
• Handles thick fabrics well
• Comes with six presser feet
• Good instructional materials

Cons:

• Some plastic parts feel flimsy
• Not ideal for heavy-duty sewing

Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine

The Brother XM2701 is a fantastic sewing machine that offers a perfect combination of affordability and functionality, making it an excellent choice for beginners and hobbyists alike. With 27 built-in stitches, including decorative and stretch stitches, this machine is versatile enough for a range of sewing projects. The automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin system make setup quick and easy, ensuring users spend more time sewing and less time troubleshooting. The lightweight design makes it portable, and the free arm feature is ideal for sewing cuffs, sleeves, and pant legs, enhancing its usability for a wide variety of everyday tasks. Whether you’re new to sewing or looking to upgrade your basic machine, the XM2701 provides solid performance and user-friendly features.

In addition to its ease of use, the Brother XM2701 includes several accessories to enhance your sewing experience, including six presser feet, a 3-piece needle set, twin needle, and four bobbins. It also comes with an instructional DVD and a comprehensive manual to guide users through the setup and use. The machine is backed by Brother’s “At Your Side” support, offering free technical assistance via live chat, phone, or online for the life of the product.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key features:

• 27 built-in stitches, including decorative, blind hem, and stretch stitches
• Automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin
• Versatile free arm for sewing sleeves, cuffs, and pant legs
• Six included presser feet for different sewing tasks
• Brother’s “At Your Side” technical support for the life of the machine

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable, easy to carry
• Great for beginners with simple threading and setup
• Affordable with a wide range of features
• Versatile for various sewing projects
• Comprehensive customer support

Cons:

• Not ideal for heavy-duty or industrial sewing

Brother SM-2700 vs XM2701: Detailed Comparison

When considering a sewing machine, two popular models that cater to both beginners and intermediate users are the Brother SM-2700 and Brother XM2701. Both machines are designed with ease of use, affordability, and versatility in mind. However, they differ in certain features, performance, and overall user experience.

Key Features Comparison

The Brother SM-2700 and Brother XM2701 offer a wide range of features, but there are several differences that set them apart. Below is a table comparing the key features of both machines:

Feature	Brother SM-2700	Brother XM2701
Built-In Stitches	27 (including decorative, blind hem, quilting)	27 (including decorative, blind hem, quilting)
Automatic Needle Threader	Yes	Yes
Drop-In Top Bobbin	Yes	Yes
One-Step Buttonhole	Yes	Yes
Free Arm	No	Yes
Presser Feet	6 Included (buttonhole, zipper, zigzag, blind stitch, narrow hemmer, button sewing)	6 Included (buttonhole, zipper, zigzag, blind stitch, narrow hemmer, button sewing)
LED Work Area	Yes	Yes
Weight	15.7 lbs	12.6 lbs
Included Accessories	Instructional DVD, manual	Instructional DVD, manual, 3-piece needle set, twin needle, 4 bobbins
Technical Support	Yes (Brother At Your Side Support)	Yes (Brother At Your Side Support)

Design and Build Quality

Both the Brother SM-2700 and XM2701 are designed with portability in mind. However, the SM-2700 is slightly heavier, weighing 15.7 lbs compared to the XM2701’s 12.6 lbs. While the SM-2700’s weight gives it a more solid feel, the XM2701’s lighter build makes it easier to transport, which is beneficial for those who plan to move the machine around frequently.

In terms of materials, both machines feature a combination of plastic and metal, but neither is built for heavy-duty use. The SM-2700, being a little heavier, may feel slightly more durable to some users, but both machines are well-suited for light to moderate home sewing projects.

Ease of Use

Both machines cater to beginners with user-friendly features such as automatic needle threaders, drop-in top bobbins, and clear LED-lit work areas. The XM2701 has the advantage of a free arm, which makes sewing narrow items like sleeves, cuffs, and pant legs much easier. This added feature is especially beneficial for users who often work with garments and other smaller projects.

The SM-2700, on the other hand, does not have a free arm, making it less ideal for certain types of sewing, such as sewing sleeves or working with tube-shaped items. That said, it still performs exceptionally well for most basic sewing tasks and can handle a variety of fabrics.

Versatility and Features

Both machines offer 27 built-in stitches, including decorative, zigzag, and blind hem stitches, along with an automatic one-step buttonhole. They also include six presser feet, providing flexibility for various sewing tasks. However, the SM-2700 has the edge with a slightly broader stitch range due to its 63 stitch functions. This may be appealing to users who want a bit more variety in their stitching options.

Another notable difference is the Brother XM2701’s inclusion of additional accessories, such as a 3-piece needle set, twin needle, and four bobbins, which could be beneficial for users who are looking for a more comprehensive starter kit. The SM-2700, while featuring a good set of presser feet and an instructional DVD, does not include as many extras.

Performance

Both machines perform well for a range of sewing projects, with users praising their ability to handle basic tasks like hemming, quilting, and making simple garments. The SM-2700 is appreciated for its lightweight design and ease of use, and many users report that it handles thicker fabrics with relative ease. On the other hand, the XM2701 is also known for its smooth operation and ease of threading, with some users specifically noting its excellent performance for casual, everyday sewing tasks.

However, users of both machines have reported some concerns with durability, particularly with the plastic components, which might not withstand heavy use over time. The XM2701, being lighter, may not be as robust for more demanding projects, while the SM-2700 feels slightly more sturdy but still not designed for industrial or heavy-duty use.

FAQ

What is the main difference between the Brother SM-2700 and XM2701?

The most noticeable difference is that the XM2701 includes a free arm, which makes sewing narrow items like sleeves and pant legs much easier. The SM-2700 does not have a free arm but offers a slightly wider range of stitch functions (63 vs. 27), which may appeal to users who want more variety in their stitching.

Are both machines suitable for beginners?

Yes, both the SM-2700 and XM2701 are designed with beginners in mind. They feature automatic needle threaders, drop-in bobbins, and easy-to-follow instructions. The XM2701 also comes with additional accessories that can help new users explore different sewing techniques.

Can these machines handle thick fabrics?

Both models are capable of handling thicker fabrics like denim, especially when used with the correct needle and presser foot. However, they are not intended for heavy-duty or industrial use. For frequent sewing of thick or layered materials, a more robust machine may be necessary.

Do they come with a warranty?

Yes, both machines come with Brother’s 25-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support via chat, phone, or online resources. This gives peace of mind to users, especially those just getting started.

Which one is better for small spaces or travel?

The XM2701 is slightly lighter at 12.6 pounds compared to the SM-2700’s 15.7 pounds, making it a better option for portability. If you need a sewing machine that’s easy to move between rooms or take to classes, the XM2701 may be more convenient.

Conclusion

Both the Brother SM-2700 and XM2701 are excellent choices for beginner to intermediate sewers looking for an affordable and user-friendly machine. If you prioritize a more comprehensive stitch range and don’t need a free arm, the SM-2700 could be the better choice for you. However, if you plan to work on garments and need the added flexibility of a free arm, the XM2701 would serve you better. Ultimately, both machines offer great value, but the XM2701 stands out with its extra accessories and portable design.