Today, almost all sewing machines that are manufactured are powered by electricity. To find a treadle or knee powered sewing machine, you need to buy an antique. Which makes the terms “mechanical sewing machine” and “electronic sewing machine” a bit confusing. Aren’t they all electronic?

What the manufacturers of the machines want to convey with the terms “mechanics” vs. “electronic” is how you, the user, determine what your sewing machine does. It is more about the interface and configuration of the machine. So “mechanical” means you’ll move knobs, turn knobs, manually move a lever, etc., to determine how long your stitches will be, whether your needle is set to the center or to the side, and whether you’re sewing straight or zigzag. “Electronic” in this context means that you will configure these machine attributes electronically, typically by pressing a button or choosing a menu setting on an LCD screen.

These computerized controls determine stitch length, zigzag width, decorative stitches and more. For many years this reviewer was convinced that the extra expense of electronic machines was not justified and that electronics were just one more thing that might need repair. However, today there are a number of electronic sewing machines that compete with the best mechanical ones. Yes, they are more expensive, but they make up for it in the long run with flexibility of use and “solid workhorse” reliability. In fact, while researching inexpensive “workhorse” sewing machines, this reviewer was disappointed with many of the mechanical offerings and convinced himself that lower-end electronic machines were a better investment these days.

Today many of the “cheap sewing machines” are too cheap to last for years. Some of them are okay, and it’s extremely important to read the reviews. The brands our mothers and grandmothers considered “workhorse” machines that last a lifetime may not make every model live up to such expectations these days. Read reviews, determine who your warranty covers (the dealer or the manufacturer), and buy from a trusted source. Sewing is fun, creative, and can stretch your household budget in the long run. Investing in the right sewing machine for you is important so that you can explore all you can do without breaking the bank.