Brother XM3700 vs. XM2701 Sewing Machine: A Comparison

Choosing the right sewing machine can be overwhelming, especially when you’re deciding between two popular models like the Brother XM3700 and Brother XM2701. Both are affordable, beginner-friendly, and packed with features that make home sewing enjoyable and efficient. But which one better suits your needs? Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade your current setup, we will help you understand the key differences, benefits, and limitations of each machine—so you can make an informed decision and invest in the right tool for your projects.

Brother XM3700 Sewing Machine

The Brother XM3700 sewing machine is an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate sewers alike, offering a solid blend of simplicity and versatility. With 37 built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and quilting options, this machine allows users to experiment with different techniques without overwhelming them. The one-step auto-size buttonhole and automatic needle threader are standout features that make setup and operation nearly effortless. During testing, I found the machine to be smooth and consistent, with even stitching and minimal vibration. Its compact and lightweight design (just 12.5 pounds) makes it highly portable—perfect for those who attend sewing classes or workshops.

One of the things I appreciated most was the thoughtful inclusion of five presser feet and a free-arm feature for sewing sleeves and cuffs. The quick-set, jam-resistant bobbin system and clear-view bobbin cover make thread management hassle-free. That said, the machine’s smaller size may limit its use for larger quilting projects or heavy fabrics.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features

• 37 built-in stitches including decorative and quilting options
• One-step auto-size buttonhole
• Automatic needle threader and drop-in bobbin
• 5 included sewing feet
• Convertible free arm/flatbed workspace

Pros

• Beginner-friendly and intuitive operation
• Lightweight and easy to transport
• Smooth, consistent stitching
• Great value for the price
• Helpful built-in LED light for visibility

Cons

• Small size may not suit large projects

Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine

The Brother XM2701 sewing machine is a reliable, beginner-friendly tool that offers an impressive balance between functionality and simplicity. With 27 built-in stitches—including decorative, blind hem, zigzag, and stretch stitches—it’s well-equipped for a variety of everyday sewing projects. The one-step auto-size buttonhole function, along with the automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in bobbin, makes setup quick and frustration-free. During testing, the machine performed smoothly with even stitching and minimal noise, especially on light- to medium-weight fabrics. Its compact form and 12.6-pound weight make it highly portable, ideal for sewers who move their setup between rooms or attend sewing classes.

What sets the XM2701 apart is its combination of versatility and affordability. It comes with six presser feet that are easy to swap out, making it simple to handle zippers, hems, and buttons without special skills. The free arm is particularly handy for cuffs and sleeves, while the built-in light enhances visibility during detailed work. That said, it’s not built for heavy-duty sewing—some users report issues under frequent or intensive use.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features

• 27 built-in stitches including stretch and decorative
• One-step auto-size buttonhole
• Automatic needle threader and drop-in bobbin
• Six quick-change presser feet included
• Built-in free arm for cylindrical sewing

Pros

• Lightweight and portable
• Very beginner-friendly setup and threading
• Smooth stitching with good precision
• Versatile features at an affordable price
• Helpful instructional DVD and long-term support

Cons

• Not suited for heavy fabrics or high-volume use

Comparison: Brother XM3700 vs. Brother XM2701

When comparing the Brother XM3700 and the Brother XM2701, both models offer a range of features that cater to beginner and intermediate sewers. However, each machine has its own strengths and specific functionalities that may appeal to different user needs.

Key Features Comparison

Both the Brother XM3700 and XM2701 are versatile machines, but they differ in the number of built-in stitches, included accessories, and some functional features.

Feature	Brother XM3700	Brother XM2701
Built-in Stitches	37 unique stitches	27 unique stitches
Buttonhole Function	One-step, auto-size buttonhole	One-step, auto-size buttonhole
Automatic Needle Threader	Yes	Yes
Drop-in Bobbin System	Jam-resistant, quick-set	Jam-resistant, Quick-Set
Included Presser Feet	5 presser feet (zigzag, zipper, blind stitch, buttonhole, button sewing)	6 presser feet (buttonhole, zipper, zigzag, narrow hemmer, blind stitch, button sewing)
Free Arm Functionality	Yes	Yes
Instructional DVD and Manual	Yes (Manual Only)	Yes (DVD and Manual)

Stitches and Versatility

The Brother XM3700 shines in terms of stitch variety, offering 37 unique built-in stitches, compared to the XM2701’s 27 stitches. This gives the XM3700 more versatility in decorative and quilting projects. If you’re looking for a machine with a broad range of utility stitches for sewing garments, home décor, or crafting, the XM3700 provides a better selection.

On the other hand, the XM2701 may still be sufficient for most everyday sewing tasks. The 27 stitches include several key stitch types like decorative, zigzag, blind hem, and stretch stitches, along with a one-step auto-size buttonhole. The XM2701’s stitch selection may be more than enough for someone just starting or for occasional home use.

Included Accessories

Both machines come with a decent range of accessories to enhance their functionality, but the XM2701 has an edge with one extra presser foot. The XM2701 includes 6 presser feet (buttonhole, zipper, zigzag, narrow hemmer, blind stitch, and button sewing), which makes it a great choice for more specialized tasks like hemming or attaching buttons. The XM3700, while offering 5 presser feet (including zigzag, zipper, and buttonhole), doesn’t include the narrow hemmer or blind stitch foot, which could be limiting for some users who need those specific functions.

Both machines also include an instructional manual, but the XM2701 includes an additional instructional DVD, making it easier for beginners to get started.

Ease of Use

Both models are beginner-friendly, but the XM3700 includes an automatic needle threader, which can be a real time-saver. The threading process is simplified with this feature, especially for users who may have difficulty manually threading needles. Both machines use a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin system, which helps maintain consistent stitching and is easier to load than traditional bobbins.

The XM2701, while similar in ease of use, lacks the automatic needle threader, meaning it may require a bit more effort for threading the needle. However, this is not a significant drawback for those who are comfortable with manual threading.

Portability and Design

Both machines are designed to be lightweight and easy to move around. The XM2701 weighs slightly more (12.6 lbs vs. 12.5 lbs for the XM3700), but both machines are compact enough for storage in smaller spaces or for portability. The XM2701 is slightly more compact in its overall dimensions, which could be beneficial for users with limited workspace.

Both models feature a free arm, which allows for easier sewing of smaller cylindrical items like cuffs and sleeves, making them ideal for users who frequently sew garments. This functionality is particularly useful for those who want to create custom clothing or handle smaller projects like baby clothes.

Durability and Build

Both machines have a similar build quality with a mix of plastic and metal parts. While the XM3700 has a slightly larger footprint and might feel a bit more sturdy, the XM2701 is similarly well-built for lighter to medium tasks. Neither machine is designed for heavy-duty or industrial-grade sewing, so users who require a machine that can handle thicker fabrics or high-volume use may want to explore higher-end models.

FAQ

What is the main difference between Brother XM2701 and XM3700?

The main difference lies in the number of built-in stitches and included presser feet. The XM3700 offers 37 stitches and 5 presser feet, focusing more on decorative and quilting flexibility, while the XM2701 offers 27 stitches and 6 presser feet, including a narrow hemmer foot for added versatility in garment construction.

Which machine is better for beginners?

Both machines are beginner-friendly, but the XM2701 has a slight edge due to its extra instructional DVD and simpler interface. However, the XM3700’s additional stitches can also be beneficial for beginners who want to experiment with a wider range of techniques.

Can either of these machines handle thick fabrics?

These models are designed for light to medium-weight fabrics. While they can handle light denim or multiple layers of cotton, they are not ideal for heavy-duty sewing like thick canvas or upholstery material. For those tasks, a more robust machine would be recommended.

Do both machines come with a warranty?

Yes, both the Brother XM2701 and XM3700 come with a 25-year limited warranty and lifetime access to technical support via phone, chat, or online resources.

Is the XM2701 or XM3700 better for quilting?

The XM3700 is slightly better for quilting due to its wider variety of stitches, including more decorative and heirloom options. However, serious quilters may still prefer a dedicated quilting machine with more throat space and specialized features.

Final Verdict

Both the Brother XM3700 and the Brother XM2701 offer solid performance for beginner and intermediate sewers. The XM3700 is a better option for those who need a wider variety of stitches and are focused on more creative or decorative sewing projects, while the XM2701 provides a great balance of essential features at a lower price point, making it an excellent choice for those just starting out or focusing on basic garment construction.

In conclusion, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs:

• Choose the Brother XM3700 if you want more stitch variety and are focused on versatility for quilting, heirloom sewing, or decorative stitching.
• Choose the Brother XM2701 if you are on a budget and need a reliable, lightweight machine for everyday sewing tasks with sufficient functionality to handle basic to intermediate projects.