# Used Embroidery Machine Checklist: Inspect Before You Buy > A checklist for buying a used or remaining-stock embroidery machine like the PE535, PE800 or SE1900: hoops, warranty, test stitch-out, firmware and scam red… - Source: https://embroiderywise.com/posts/used-embroidery-machine-checklist/ - Markdown version: https://embroiderywise.com/posts/used-embroidery-machine-checklist.md - Last updated: 2026-10-07 --- - [Home](https://embroiderywise.com/) - [Guides](https://embroiderywise.com/guides/) - Used embroidery machine checklist: what to check before you buy Buying advice # Used embroidery machine checklist: what to check before you buy 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 - Brother lists the PE535, PE800 and SE1900 as discontinued; their replacements are the PE545, PE900 and SE2000. - Check the hoops: a PE800 or SE1900 without its 5 × 7 hoop loses much of its value. - Watch a real test stitch-out and a design loaded from USB before paying. - Assume no manufacturer warranty on a private sale; ask authorized dealers about remaining stock. - Never pay by gift card, wire transfer or crypto; the FTC lists these as scam payment methods. ## Our top picks - 1![Brother PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/_astro/brother-pe900.CC-k0xoy_Z1UN3bk.webp)New alternative to a used PE800[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)New alternative to a used SE1900[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)New alternative to a used PE535[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 13 sections - [Step 1: Know what you’re giving up versus new](#step-1-know-what-youre-giving-up-versus-new) - [Step 2: Used vs remaining stock, and the warranty question](#step-2-used-vs-remaining-stock-and-the-warranty-question) - [Step 3: Questions to ask the seller](#step-3-questions-to-ask-the-seller) - [Step 4: Inspect the machine](#step-4-inspect-the-machine) - [Step 5: Watch a test stitch-out](#step-5-watch-a-test-stitch-out) - [Step 6: Check firmware and manuals](#step-6-check-firmware-and-manuals) - [Step 7: Price in what’s missing](#step-7-price-in-whats-missing) - [Step 8: Avoid scams](#step-8-avoid-scams) - [Red flags at a glance](#red-flags-at-a-glance) - [When should you buy new instead?](#when-should-you-buy-new-instead) - [Spec comparison](#spec-comparison) - [Related tool](#related-tool) - [FAQ](#faq) ## Before you choose - [Best budget embroidery machine: entry-level picks that won’t hold you back](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/best-budget-embroidery-machine/) - [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/) Before buying a used embroidery machine, confirm the exact model and what its current replacement offers, ask for proof of purchase and which hoops are included, and watch a test stitch-out in person, including loading a design from USB. Assume a private used sale has no Brother warranty: Brother’s home sewing warranty statement says it is void if the machine wasn’t bought from an authorized Brother reseller in the US. Walk away from sellers who refuse a demonstration or want gift cards or wire transfers. Some of the most searched beginner embroidery machines are ones Brother no longer makes. The PE535, PE800 and SE1900 are all listed by Brother as discontinued, but they still turn up as remaining stock and on the used market, often at prices that look tempting next to their replacements. A used machine can be a good deal. It can also be a machine with a missing hoop, a cracked carriage cover or a seller who never intends to ship it. This checklist covers what to verify before you pay. It is general buying guidance drawn from Brother’s documentation and consumer-protection advice, not statistics about used machines. ## Step 1: Know what you’re giving up versus new Before you look at a listing, know what the current replacement adds, so you can judge the discount. | Discontinued model | Current replacement | What the replacement adds (per Brother) | | --- | --- | --- | | [PE535](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe535/) (4 × 4, embroidery-only) | [PE545](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe545/) | Wi-Fi and Artspira, 135 vs 80 designs, 10 vs 9 fonts | | [PE800](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe800/) (5 × 7, embroidery-only) | [PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe900/) | Wi-Fi and Artspira, jump stitch trimming, 193 vs 138 designs, 13 vs 11 fonts, larger screen | | [SE1900](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se1900/) (5 × 7 combo) | [SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se2000/) | Wi-Fi and Artspira, jump stitch trimming, 193 vs 138 designs, 13 vs 11 fonts | Field size is the same in each pair, so a used machine gets you the same design size. What you lose is wireless transfer, jump stitch trimming on the 5 × 7 models, and almost certainly a warranty. Our comparisons cover each pair: [PE535 vs PE545](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-pe535-vs-pe545/), [PE800 vs PE900](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-pe800-vs-pe900/) and [SE1900 vs SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/brother-se1900-vs-se2000/). Note that Brother’s own data for the older models has conflicts: the PE800 is listed with 11 fonts in its description and 7 in a spec field, and the SE1900 with 136 or 138 designs and conflicting font counts. Don’t treat a listing’s spec claims as a test of honesty. ## Step 2: Used vs remaining stock, and the warranty question “Remaining stock” means a new, unopened machine still in a store’s inventory. “Used” means someone owned it. Brother’s home sewing limited warranty statement (an older document Brother hosts) says the warranty is given to the end-use purchaser, and is void if the product wasn’t bought from an authorized Brother reseller in the US, if the serial number has been modified, defaced or removed, or if it was serviced by someone other than an authorized Brother service representative. To claim, you need a dated bill of sale. What that means in practice: - **Remaining stock from an authorized reseller:** ask the dealer directly what warranty applies, and get a dated receipt. - **Private used sale:** assume there is no Brother warranty, and price the machine accordingly. - **Any sale:** check that the serial number label is present and readable. Warranty terms can differ by model and date, so check the warranty that came with the specific machine. ## Step 3: Questions to ask the seller Send these before you travel or pay: - What is the exact model number, and when and where was it bought? Is there a receipt? - Which hoops are included? For the PE800 and SE1900, the 5 × 7 hoop is essential; for the PE535, the 4 × 4 hoop. - For the SE1900: is the embroidery unit included? Without it, the machine is a sewing machine only. - Are the embroidery foot, power cord, bobbin case, manual and accessories included? - Has it been serviced, and by whom? - Why are you selling it? - Can I see it stitch a design in person, or on a live video call before shipping? A seller who answers clearly and agrees to a demonstration is a good sign. Vague answers about hoops or the embroidery unit can signal an incomplete machine. ## Step 4: Inspect the machine When you see it in person, check: | Check | What you are looking for | | --- | --- | | Serial number label | Present and readable (Brother’s warranty is void if it is removed or defaced) | | Power-on | Screen lights, responds to touch in each corner, no error messages | | Carriage | Moves to its start position on power-up with the hoop removed; nothing blocks it | | Embroidery unit (SE1900) | Slides in and seats with no gap; Brother’s SE2000 manual warns a gap can stop patterns stitching correctly | | Hoops | Inner and outer rings intact, no cracks, clamp or clip works | | Needle area | Needle not bent; needle plate free of deep burrs or gouges | | Bobbin case | Present, undamaged, correct for embroidery bobbin thread | | USB port | Physically intact; you’ll test it in step 5 | Brother’s SE2000 manual says the carriage moves to its initial position when you power on with the embroidery unit attached. Other models behave similarly, but check the manual for the model you’re buying. ## Step 5: Watch a test stitch-out This is the most important step. Bring: - A piece of stable woven fabric already hooped with tear-away stabilizer, or ask the seller to hoop one. - A USB stick with a small, known-good PES design, under the stitch limits Brother lists for that hoop size. - A fresh 75/11 embroidery needle, in case the installed one is worn. Then: - **Stitch a built-in design with at least three colors.** Confirm the machine stops at each color change and, where the model has it, trims the thread. Brother lists automatic thread cutting for the PE535. - **Check the outline lines up with the fill.** Brother lists a loose frame, no stabilizer or the frame hitting an object as causes of misalignment, so rule those out first; if it’s still off, be cautious. - **Turn the fabric over.** Madeira says satin stitches should show about one-third bobbin thread and two-thirds top thread on the underside. Only top thread on the back, or bobbin thread showing on top, points to tension issues. - **Load your USB design.** This proves the port works and the machine reads PES files. If it won’t load, our [machine not reading PES guide](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/embroidery-machine-not-reading-pes/) covers the usual causes. - **For the SE1900:** remove the embroidery unit and sew a straight seam and a zigzag to test the sewing side. Brother’s manual says to replace the needle if you hear an unusual sound or see skipped stitches, so swap in your fresh needle before judging the machine harshly. Persistent thread nests or breaks after re-threading are a reason to walk away. ## Step 6: Check firmware and manuals Brother’s PE800 support page points to drivers, downloads and manuals on Brother’s Online Solution Center. Before buying, look up the model there to see what downloads exist, and download the operation manual if the seller doesn’t have one. If the machine’s settings screen shows a version number, compare it with what Brother offers. ## Step 7: Price in what’s missing A used machine’s real cost is the asking price plus everything you need to make it usable. Before you agree on a price, list: - **Missing hoops or the embroidery unit.** Check whether replacements for a discontinued model are still sold, and at what cost, before assuming you can replace them. - **A service visit.** If the machine hasn’t been serviced in years, budget for a check-up at a Brother authorized service center. - **Fresh consumables.** New needles, embroidery bobbin thread (Brother’s manual says the included bobbin case is set for 90-weight bobbin thread), stabilizer and thread. These are the same as for a new machine. - **Your time.** A machine you can’t test on the spot may cost you trips, returns or repairs. Add those to the asking price and compare with a new PE545, PE900 or SE2000. If the gap is small, the new machine’s warranty and added features usually win. ## Step 8: Avoid scams Most used-machine scams are ordinary online-sale scams. The FTC’s advice applies directly: - **Payment method:** the FTC says never pay someone who insists you can only pay by cryptocurrency, a wire transfer service, a payment app or a gift card. - **Pressure:** the FTC notes “scammers want you to act before you have time to think.” A seller rushing you is a red flag. - **Overpayment checks:** the FTC warns against depositing a check and sending money back. Practical rules: see it run before you pay, meet somewhere public and safe, prefer payment methods with buyer protection, and be wary of listings priced far below others for the same model, especially when the seller will only ship. ## Red flags at a glance | Red flag | Why it matters | | --- | --- | | No demonstration, “works perfectly, no time to test” | You can’t verify the main function | | Missing 5 × 7 hoop (PE800, SE1900) | The main reason to buy these models | | SE1900 without the embroidery unit | It can’t embroider | | Serial number missing or scratched off | Possible theft; Brother’s warranty is void | | Gift card, wire or crypto only | The FTC lists these as scam payment methods | | Price close to a new replacement | You lose features and warranty for little saving | ## When should you buy new instead? Buy the current model if the used price is close to new, the seller can’t demonstrate it, key parts are missing, or you want Wi-Fi and jump stitch trimming. The [budget machine guide](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/best-budget-embroidery-machine/) covers the entry-level new options, and the [startup budget calculator](https://embroiderywise.com/tools/startup-budget/) helps compare a used machine plus missing parts against a new one with supplies. ## Spec comparison Manufacturer specifications, checked October 2026. Maximum speed is a ceiling, not typical output. | Machine | Field | Type | Designs | Max speed | Transfer | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | [Brother PE535](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe535/) | 100 × 100 mm (4 × 4 in) | Embroidery-only | 80 | — | USB | | [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 PE800](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-pe800/) | 130 × 180 mm (5 × 7 in) | Embroidery-only | 138 | 650 spm | USB | | [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 SE1900](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se1900/) | 130 × 180 mm (5 × 7 in) | Combo | 138 | — | USB | | [Brother SE2000](https://embroiderywise.com/machines/brother-se2000/) | 130 × 180 mm (5 × 7 in) | Combo | 193 | 650 spm | USB, Wi-Fi, Artspira app | ## Related tool Try the [Embroidery startup budget calculator](https://embroiderywise.com/tools/startup-budget/): Add up machine, supplies, software and test allowance. 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 ### Is it safe to buy a used embroidery machine? It can be, if you see it run. Watch a test stitch-out in person, check the hoops and accessories, and pay with a method that offers buyer protection. Skip sellers who won’t demonstrate the machine. ### Does a used Brother embroidery machine have a warranty? Usually not. Brother’s home sewing warranty statement says the warranty is given to the end-use purchaser and is void if the product wasn’t bought from an authorized Brother reseller in the US. Remaining new stock from an authorized dealer is a different case; ask the dealer. ### Is a used PE800 still worth buying? At the right price, yes. Brother lists the same 5 × 7 field and 650 spm as the PE900, but the PE800 is discontinued, USB only and lacks jump stitch trimming. If the used price is close to a new PE900, buy new. ### What should come with a used SE1900? At minimum, the embroidery unit, the 5 × 7 hoop, the embroidery foot, the power cord and bobbin case. Ask for the manual too, or download it from Brother’s support site. ### How do I test a used embroidery machine? Stitch a multi-color built-in design on hooped fabric with stabilizer, then load a small PES file from a USB stick. Check that colors stop and trim, outlines line up, and the back shows some bobbin thread under satin columns. ## Sources - [Brother PE535 product page](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/PE535) - [Brother PE800 product page](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/PE800) - [Brother SE1900 product page](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/SE1900) - [Brother PE545 product page](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/PE545) - [Brother PE900 product page](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/PE900) - [Brother SE2000 product page](https://www.brother-usa.com/p/sewing-embroidery/SE2000) - [Brother home sewing limited warranty statement](https://www.brother-usa.com/VirData/Content/en-US/HAD/WarrantyDocuments/WarrantyStatements/HomeSewing.pdf) - [Brother PE800 support page](https://www.brother-usa.com/support/pe800) - [Brother SE2000 operation manual (embroidery unit)](https://download.brother.com/welcome/doch102507/888_k10_l11_l12_om01en.pdf) - [Brother operation manual: thread](https://support.brother.com/g/s/hf/htmldoc/hsm/om/888p6x/en/06_09_01.html) - [Brother operation manual: needles](https://support.brother.com/g/s/hf/htmldoc/hsm/om/888p6x/en/02_03.html) - [Brother operation manual: list of symptoms](https://support.brother.com/g/s/hf/htmldoc/hsm/om/888p6x/en/09_05_07.html) - [Brother: design not recognized (stitch limits)](https://help.brother-usa.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/185941) - [Madeira: adjusting thread tensions](https://www.madeirausa.com/services/troubleshooting/adjusting-thread-tensions/default.aspx) - [FTC: how to avoid a scam](https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-scam) Our #1 pick New alternative to a used PE800 ![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 budget embroidery machine: entry-level picks that won’t hold you back The best cheap embroidery machines are 4 × 4 models like the Brother PE545, SE630, PP1 and SE700. Here’s what each gives up, and when a used PE800 or a PE900 is smarter. Updated Oct 7, 2026](https://embroiderywise.com/posts/best-budget-embroidery-machine/)[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/) New alternative to a used PE800 PE900 Check price Price not verified [Check price](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B8337QHR?tag=room4205-20)