Best embroidery machine under $1,000: four picks by project size
Our top picks
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For most people the best embroidery machine under $1,000 is the Singer SE9180 ($799.99 on Singer’s site) if you want a wider field, or the Brother SE700 ($579.99) if you want a sewing combo with Brother support. For embroidery only, the PE545 ($499.99) is the pick. The Brother 5 × 7 models compared here are above $1,000. Prices below were checked on October 11, 2026 on each manufacturer’s US site. Embroidery machine prices move with sales, so treat them as a snapshot.
Which embroidery machines cost under $1,000?
| Machine | Type | Price (checked Oct 11, 2026) | Field | Built-in designs | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PP1 Skitch | Embroidery-only, app-driven | $379.99 sale (was $529.99) | 4 × 4 in | Via app | Brother USA |
| PE545 | Embroidery-only | $499.99 | 4 × 4 in | 135 | Brother USA |
| SE700 | Sewing + embroidery | $579.99 | 4 × 4 in | 135 | Brother USA |
| SE9180 | Sewing + embroidery | $799.99 sale (was $999.99) | 170 × 100 mm | 150 | Singer |
PP1 Skitch
- Type
- Embroidery-only, app-driven
- Price (checked Oct 11, 2026)
- $379.99 sale (was $529.99)
- Field
- 4 × 4 in
- Built-in designs
- Via app
- Source
- Brother USA
PE545
- Type
- Embroidery-only
- Price (checked Oct 11, 2026)
- $499.99
- Field
- 4 × 4 in
- Built-in designs
- 135
- Source
- Brother USA
SE700
- Type
- Sewing + embroidery
- Price (checked Oct 11, 2026)
- $579.99
- Field
- 4 × 4 in
- Built-in designs
- 135
- Source
- Brother USA
SE9180
- Type
- Sewing + embroidery
- Price (checked Oct 11, 2026)
- $799.99 sale (was $999.99)
- Field
- 170 × 100 mm
- Built-in designs
- 150
- Source
- Singer
Which one is the best pick?
Pick the SE9180 if your designs run wider than 4 inches, such as a banner-style name or a wide chest logo. It is the only machine in this shortlist with a field wider than 4 × 4. Its trade-offs are covered on its machine page.
Pick the SE700 if you also want to sew and prefer Brother’s wireless and Artspira workflow.
Pick the PE545 if you already own a sewing machine and want embroidery only, at the lowest price that is not a sale price.
Pick the PP1 only if you are happy running everything from a phone.
Why are Brother’s 5 × 7 machines not here?
They cost more. The PE900 was $1,179.99 and the SE2000 $1,299.99 on the same date. If you are choosing between a 4 × 4 machine and saving longer for a 5 × 7, read our hoop size guide. Our under $500 guide covers the cheapest end.
What about discontinued models?
The Brother PE800 and SE1900 are discontinued; Brother’s site showed them out of stock. They turn up used, with warranty coverage that needs checking with the seller, which our budget guide explains.
Spec comparison
Manufacturer specifications, checked October 2026. Maximum speed is a ceiling, not typical output.
| Machine | Field | Type | Designs | Max speed | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brother PE545 | 100 × 100 mm (4 × 4 in) | Embroidery-only | 135 | 400 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira app |
| Brother PP1 (Skitch) | 100 × 100 mm (4 × 4 in) | Embroidery-only | — | 400 spm | Bluetooth LE, Artspira app (required) |
| Brother SE700 | 100 × 100 mm (4 × 4 in) | Combo | 135 | 400 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira app |
| Singer SE9180 | 100 × 170 mm (170 × 100 mm) | Combo | 150 | 450 spm | USB, Wi-Fi (see note) |
| Brother PE900 | 130 × 180 mm (5 × 7 in) | Embroidery-only | 193 | 650 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira app |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best embroidery machine under $1,000?
Can I get a 5 × 7 machine under $1,000?
Are these prices permanent?
Sources
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