# Brother Embroidery Machine Comparison Chart (PE vs SE vs NQ) > Every current Brother home embroidery machine on one chart: PE vs SE vs NQ explained, hoop sizes, Wi-Fi, which models are discontinued and what replaced them. - Source: https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-embroidery-machine-lineup/ - Markdown version: https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-embroidery-machine-lineup.md - Last updated: 2026-10-07 --- - [Home](https://embroiderywise.com/) - [Guides](https://embroiderywise.com/guides/) - Brother embroidery machines compared: the whole lineup, explained Head-to-head # Brother embroidery machines compared: the whole lineup, explained Updated October 7, 2026 By [EmbroideryWise Editorial Team](https://embroiderywise.com/about/) [How we research](https://embroiderywise.com/how-we-research/) Prices are approximate and change often, so check the current price before you buy. ## Key takeaways - PE = embroidery-only, SE = sewing + embroidery, NQ = 6 × 10 field. - Current 5 × 7 models: PE900 (embroidery-only) and SE2000 (combo), with identical embroidery specs. - PE535 → PE545, PE800 → PE900 and SE1900 → SE2000 are the successor pairs. - Only the PRS100 and PR680W in this lineup list cap frame capability. ## Our top picks - 1![Brother PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/_astro/brother-pe900.CC-k0xoy_Z1UN3bk.webp)5 × 7 embroidery-only[Brother PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe900/)5 × 7 in field · Embroidery only · BrotherCheck pricePrice not verified[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B8337QHR?tag=room4205-20) - 2![Brother SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/_astro/brother-se2000.B02DMjfJ_ZwRvwo.webp)5 × 7 sewing + embroidery[Brother SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se2000/)5 × 7 in field · Sewing + embroidery · BrotherCheck pricePrice not verified[Check price](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B835KJFF?tag=room4205-20) - 3![Brother PE545](https://embroiderywise.com/_astro/brother-pe545.BEl03yO3_1Im7RY.webp)4 × 4 embroidery-only[Brother PE545](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe545/)4 × 4 in field · Embroidery only · BrotherCheck pricePrice not verified[Check price](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B8DSJKTH?tag=room4205-20) ### On this page 12 sections - [How Brother names its embroidery machines](#how-brother-names-its-embroidery-machines) - [The current lineup at a glance](#the-current-lineup-at-a-glance) - [The 4 × 4 machines: PP1, PE545, SE630 and SE700](#the-4--4-machines-pp1-pe545-se630-and-se700) - [The 5 × 7 machines: PE900 and SE2000](#the-5--7-machines-pe900-and-se2000) - [The 6 × 10 machines: NQ1700E and NQ3550W](#the-6--10-machines-nq1700e-and-nq3550w) - [Beyond home machines: PRS100 and PR680W](#beyond-home-machines-prs100-and-pr680w) - [Discontinued models and their successors](#discontinued-models-and-their-successors) - [Stitch limits differ by hoop, and sources disagree](#stitch-limits-differ-by-hoop-and-sources-disagree) - [Which Brother should you buy?](#which-brother-should-you-buy) - [Spec comparison](#spec-comparison) - [Related tool](#related-tool) - [FAQ](#faq) ## Before you choose - [Best embroidery machine for beginners: choose by hoop, not hype](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/best-embroidery-machine-for-beginners/) - [Brother PE800 vs PE900: is the upgrade worth it?](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-pe800-vs-pe900/) - [Brother SE1900 vs SE2000: what changed and which to buy](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-se1900-vs-se2000/) Brother’s home embroidery machines split three ways: PE models are embroidery-only, SE models sew and embroider, and NQ models step up to a 6 × 10 inch field. Within each, the field size is the main difference: 4 × 4 (PE545, SE630, SE700, PP1), 5 × 7 (PE900, SE2000) or 6 × 10 (NQ1700E, NQ3550W). The popular PE535, PE800 and SE1900 are discontinued. Brother sells more beginner embroidery machines in the US than any other brand covered here, and its model names are hard to decode. This page puts the whole home lineup on one map. It explains what the letters mean and which popular models have been quietly discontinued. Every spec comes from Brother’s product pages and manuals, checked October 2026. Brother embroidery lineup map Dashed = discontinued; arrow points to the current successor. Specs checked Oct 2026. ## How Brother names its embroidery machines - **PE** (PE545, PE900): **embroidery-only.** These stitch designs in a hoop and nothing else. - **SE** (SE630, SE700, SE2000): **sewing + embroidery.** A sewing machine with a detachable embroidery unit. - **NQ** (NQ1700E, NQ3550W): **6 × 10 inch field.** The “E” model is embroidery-only; the NQ3550W is a combo. - **PP1**: sold as **Skitch**. A compact 4 × 4 machine with no screen, run from the Artspira app. - **PR / PRS**: Brother’s prosumer and commercial-style range. The **PRS100** is single-needle with a free arm; the **PR680W** has six needles. Higher numbers usually mean more built-in content and newer features within a size class. They do not always mean a bigger field. The SE700 and SE2000 differ mainly in field size. The PE900 and SE2000 share identical embroidery specs. ## The current lineup at a glance | Model | Type | Field | Built-in designs | Max embroidery speed | Transfer | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [PP1 (Skitch)](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pp1/) | Embroidery-only | 4 × 4 in | Via app (100 free with Artspira) | 400 spm | Bluetooth LE, Artspira required | | [PE545](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe545/) | Embroidery-only | 4 × 4 in | 135 | 400 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira | | [SE630](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se630/) | Sewing + embroidery | 4 × 4 in | 80 | Not stated by Brother | USB | | [SE700](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se700/) | Sewing + embroidery | 4 × 4 in | 135 | 400 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira | | [PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe900/) | Embroidery-only | 5 × 7 in | 193 | 650 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira | | [SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se2000/) | Sewing + embroidery | 5 × 7 in | 193 | 650 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira | | [NQ1700E](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-nq1700e/) | Embroidery-only | 6 × 10 in | 258 | 850 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira | | [NQ3550W](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-nq3550w/) | Sewing + embroidery | 6 × 10 in | 258 | 850 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira | | [PRS100](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-prs100/) | Embroidery-only, free arm | 8 × 8 in | 445 | 1,000 spm | USB | | [PR680W](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pr680w/) | 6-needle embroidery | 8 × 12 in | 100 | 1,000 spm | USB, Wi-Fi | The SE630’s “480 embroidery designs” headline combines 80 built-in designs with 400 downloadable ones, so we list 80. Brother also sells an NQ3700D, a Disney-themed 6 × 10 combo with 313 designs. ## The 4 × 4 machines: PP1, PE545, SE630 and SE700 All four have a 100 × 100 mm field. That is enough for monograms, names, left-chest logos and patches. - **[PE545](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe545/)** is the embroidery-only choice, with Wi-Fi and 135 designs. - **[SE700](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se700/)** adds sewing (103 stitches) to the same embroidery specs. - **[SE630](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se630/)** is the simpler combo: USB only and 80 built-in designs. - **[PP1](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pp1/)** has no screen at all and needs the Artspira app on a phone or tablet. If you are torn between a 4 × 4 and a 5 × 7 model, read [4 × 4 vs 5 × 7: what fits?](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/4x4-vs-5x7-embroidery-hoop/). If you outgrow a small field, the only fix is another machine. For the combos specifically, see [SE700 vs SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-se700-vs-se2000/). ## The 5 × 7 machines: PE900 and SE2000 These are the two models most beginners end up comparing. Brother lists identical embroidery specs for both: - 130 × 180 mm field - 193 designs and 13 fonts - 650 spm maximum embroidery speed - Wi-Fi, Artspira and jump stitch trimming The only question is whether you want sewing in the same machine. The [PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe900/) is embroidery-only; the [SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se2000/) adds 241 sewing stitches. Our [PE900 vs SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-pe900-vs-se2000/) comparison walks through that choice. Brother also says both work with an optional 4 × 7 inch magnetic frame. ## The 6 × 10 machines: NQ1700E and NQ3550W The NQ models give you a 160 × 260 mm field, about 78% more area than 5 × 7, plus speeds up to 850 spm. The [NQ1700E](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-nq1700e/) comes with both a 6 × 10 and a 5 × 7 frame and has a 4.85 inch screen. The [NQ3550W](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-nq3550w/) adds 291 sewing stitches. They make sense if you already know your projects are bigger than 5 × 7. See [PE900 vs NQ1700E](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-pe900-vs-nq1700e/). ## Beyond home machines: PRS100 and PR680W The [PRS100](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-prs100/) is single-needle, but it has a free arm, an 8 × 8 field and cap frame capability. That combination matters for hats, sleeves and bags. The [PR680W](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pr680w/) has six needles, so it changes colors automatically. Of the machines on this page, these two are the only ones Brother lists with cap frame capability. Both are a big step up from home machines. Read [single-needle vs multi-needle](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/single-needle-vs-multi-needle-embroidery-machine/) and [best embroidery machine for hats](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/best-embroidery-machine-for-hats/) before deciding. ## Discontinued models and their successors Brother lists three long-time favorites as discontinued. They still sell as remaining stock and used, so here is how they map to the current line: | Discontinued | Replaced by | Same field? | Main additions in the successor | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [PE535](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe535/) | [PE545](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe545/) | Yes, 4 × 4 | Wi-Fi, Artspira, 135 vs 80 designs, 10 vs 9 fonts | | [PE800](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe800/) | [PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe900/) | Yes, 5 × 7 | Wi-Fi, Artspira, jump stitch trimming, 193 vs 138 designs | | [SE1900](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se1900/) | [SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se2000/) | Yes, 5 × 7 | Wi-Fi, Artspira, jump stitch trimming, 193 vs 138 designs | Brother’s own product data for some discontinued models is inconsistent. The PE800 page says 11 fonts in one place and 7 in another. The SE1900 data conflicts on its design count, its font count and whether it has an automatic thread cutter. When you compare listings, trust the operation manual for the exact model. A discontinued machine can still be a good buy if the price is right, the warranty terms are clear and the correct hoop is included. Use our [used embroidery machine checklist](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/used-embroidery-machine-checklist/) and the model comparisons: [PE800 vs PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-pe800-vs-pe900/), [SE1900 vs SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-se1900-vs-se2000/) and [PE535 vs PE545](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-pe535-vs-pe545/). ## Stitch limits differ by hoop, and sources disagree Brother’s support article on designs the machine will not recognize lists maximum stitch counts by hoop size: 30,000 for 4 × 4, 50,000 for 5 × 7, 150,000 for 6 × 10 and 300,000 for 7 × 12. The operation manuals for current models list higher per-pattern limits: up to 100,000 stitches for the PE545 and SE700, and up to 200,000 for the PE900 and SE2000. If a large design will not load, check the manual for your exact model. Our [file troubleshooting guide](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/embroidery-machine-not-reading-pes/) walks through the other usual causes. ## Which Brother should you buy? - **Measure your projects.** Anything over 100 × 100 mm rules out the 4 × 4 models. The [hoop fit checker](https://embroiderywise.com/tools/hoop-fit/) does the math. - **Pick the workflow.** Already sew? Choose a PE or the NQ1700E. Want one machine? Choose an SE or the NQ3550W. - **Decide on Wi-Fi.** If you want wireless transfer at 4 × 4, skip the SE630. - **Hats are a separate decision.** If hats matter, look at the PRS100 or a multi-needle machine. Still unsure? The [machine finder](https://embroiderywise.com/tools/machine-finder/) turns your answers into a shortlist, and the [beginner buying guide](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/best-embroidery-machine-for-beginners/) explains our picks. To compare with other brands, see [Brother vs Janome](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-vs-janome-embroidery-machine/). ## Spec comparison Manufacturer specifications, checked October 2026. Maximum speed is a ceiling, not typical output. | Machine | Field | Type | Designs | Max speed | Transfer | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Brother PP1 (Skitch)](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pp1/) | 100 × 100 mm (4 × 4 in) | Embroidery-only | — | 400 spm | Bluetooth LE, Artspira app (required) | | [Brother PE545](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe545/) | 100 × 100 mm (4 × 4 in) | Embroidery-only | 135 | 400 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira app | | [Brother SE630](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se630/) | 100 × 100 mm (4 × 4 in) | Combo | 80 | — | USB | | [Brother SE700](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se700/) | 100 × 100 mm (4 × 4 in) | Combo | 135 | 400 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira app | | [Brother PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe900/) | 130 × 180 mm (5 × 7 in) | Embroidery-only | 193 | 650 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira app | | [Brother SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se2000/) | 130 × 180 mm (5 × 7 in) | Combo | 193 | 650 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira app | | [Brother NQ1700E](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-nq1700e/) | 160 × 260 mm (6 × 10 in) | Embroidery-only | 258 | 850 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira app | | [Brother NQ3550W](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-nq3550w/) | 160 × 260 mm (6 × 10 in) | Combo | 258 | 850 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira app | | [Brother PRS100 (Persona)](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-prs100/) | 200 × 200 mm (8 × 8 in) | Embroidery-only | 445 | 1000 spm | USB | | [Brother PR680W](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pr680w/) | 200 × 300 mm (8 × 12 in) | Embroidery-only | 100 | 1000 spm | USB, Wi-Fi | ## Related tool Try the [Embroidery machine finder](https://embroiderywise.com/tools/machine-finder/): Answer five questions and get a spec-based shortlist. Free, no signup. ## Don't guess. Calculate. - [🧵 Machine Finder](https://embroiderywise.com/tools/machine-finder/): which machines fit your projects - [▱ Hoop Fit Checker](https://embroiderywise.com/tools/hoop-fit/): will your design fit the field - [◷ Stitch Time Calculator](https://embroiderywise.com/tools/stitch-time/): how long a design takes to stitch - [📊 Compare every machine](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/): sortable spec table ## Frequently asked questions ### What is the difference between Brother PE and SE machines? PE models (PE545, PE900) are embroidery-only. SE models (SE630, SE700, SE2000) are combination machines that sew and embroider; you attach the embroidery unit to switch modes. ### Which Brother embroidery machines are discontinued? Brother lists the PE535, PE800 and SE1900 as discontinued. Their current successors are the PE545, PE900 and SE2000. ### Which Brother embroidery machine has the biggest hoop? Among the machines here, the 6-needle PR680W lists an 8 × 12 inch field. For home single-needle machines, the NQ1700E and NQ3550W list 6 × 10 inches, and the PRS100 lists 8 × 8. ### Do Brother PE900 and SE2000 have the same embroidery features? Yes. Brother lists the same 5 × 7 field, 193 designs, 13 fonts, 650 spm maximum embroidery speed, Wi-Fi, Artspira support and jump stitch trimming for both. The SE2000 adds 241 sewing stitches. ### Which Brother embroidery machines have Wi-Fi? Of the current home models, Brother lists wireless transfer for the PE545, SE700, PE900, SE2000, NQ1700E and NQ3550W. The SE630 and PRS100 are USB only, and the PP1 connects to the Artspira app over Bluetooth LE. ## Sources - [Brother PE545 specifications](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/PE545) - [Brother SE630 specifications](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/SE630) - [Brother SE700 specifications](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/SE700) - [Brother PP1 (Skitch) specifications](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/PP1) - [Brother PE900 specifications](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/PE900) - [Brother SE2000 specifications](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/SE2000) - [Brother NQ1700E specifications](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/NQ1700E) - [Brother NQ3550W specifications](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/NQ3550W) - [Brother PRS100 specifications](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/PRS100) - [Brother PR680W specifications](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/PR680W) - [Brother PE535 product page (discontinued)](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/PE535) - [Brother PE800 product page (discontinued)](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/PE800) - [Brother SE1900 product page (discontinued)](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/SE1900) - [Brother support: design not recognized (stitch limits by hoop)](https://help.brother-usa.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/185941) Our #1 pick 5 × 7 embroidery-only ![Brother PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/_astro/brother-pe900.CC-k0xoy_Z1l7lfJ.webp) ### [Brother PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe900/) - 5 × 7 in field - Embroidery only - Up to 650 spm - Wi-Fi Beginners who already sew (or do not need to) and want room for T-shirt fronts, totes and most popular design sizes. Check price Price not verified today's price on Amazon [Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B8337QHR?tag=room4205-20)[Read the full review](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe900/) [🧵 Not sure which fits? Find your embroidery machine in 60 seconds.](https://embroiderywise.com/tools/machine-finder/)[📊 Compare every machine Sortable chart of all beginner machines.](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/) ## Keep reading [Best picks ### Best embroidery machine for beginners: choose by hoop, not hype The best beginner embroidery machines compared by real embroidery field, sewing vs embroidery-only, Wi-Fi and built-in designs. Sourced specs, honest trade-offs. Updated Oct 7, 2026](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/best-embroidery-machine-for-beginners/)[Head-to-head ### Brother PE800 vs PE900: is the upgrade worth it? Brother PE800 vs PE900 compared spec by spec: same 5 × 7 field and 650 spm, but the PE900 adds Wi-Fi, jump stitch trimming and more designs. Which to buy. Updated Oct 7, 2026](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-pe800-vs-pe900/)[Head-to-head ### Brother SE1900 vs SE2000: what changed and which to buy Brother SE1900 vs SE2000: both are 5 × 7 sewing and embroidery combos. See every spec difference, Brother’s data conflicts, and who should buy which. Updated Oct 7, 2026](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-se1900-vs-se2000/) 5 × 7 embroidery-only PE900 Check price Price not verified [Check price](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B8337QHR?tag=room4205-20)