If you’ve ever wondered, “What is the best embroidery machine?”, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a hobbyist or planning to start a small printing business, choosing the right embroidery machine can make or break your success.

In this guide, we’ll break down the difference between single-needle and multi-needle embroidery machines, explore hobby vs. commercial uses, and share our top recommendation for getting professional results.

Single-Needle vs. Multi-Needle Embroidery Machines

Both single-needle and multi-needle machines come with modern features like touchscreens, automatic thread cutters, and USB design ports. But the key difference lies in productivity and versatility:

Single-Needle Machines

  • Best for beginners and hobbyists.

  • Budget-friendly and often multifunctional (sewing, quilting, embroidery).

  • Flatbed design makes tubular items (shirts, socks, caps) tricky.

  • Slower stitching speed.

  • Only one color at a time, requiring manual thread changes.

Multi-Needle Machines

  • Designed for serious hobbyists and small businesses.

  • 6–18 needles for automatic color changes.

  • Tubular arms handle caps, jackets, and odd shapes with ease.

  • Faster stitching speeds for higher productivity.

  • Load a design, set colors, press start — and let the machine work while you focus on other tasks.

👉 If your goal is to start a small printing business with embroidery, a multi-needle machine will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Hobby vs. Business: Which Path Are You On?

For Hobbyists

  • Look for user-friendly machines with built-in designs and features.

  • Consider attachments for specific projects like pockets or sleeves.

  • Prioritize ease of use and creative fun over high-speed output.

For Businesses

  • Ask yourself:

    • Who is my target audience?

    • What garments/items do they want embroidered?

    • What hoop size and attachments will I need?

  • Avoid overspending on unnecessary “bells and whistles.”

  • Invest in essential attachments (e.g., cap frames, jacket hoops).

⚡ Insider Tip: In large embroidery factories, millions of garments are stitched every year with just the essentials. Attachments that save time matter far more than flashy extras.

Home vs. Commercial Embroidery Brands

Home Brands

Popular names like Brother, Janome, Babylock, and Bernina are great for hobbyists. They often include built-in fonts, fun extras, and strong dealer support.

  • Pros: Excellent training and support, creative features.

  • Cons: Higher prices due to dealer networks.

  • Caution: Be careful with used machines. Always ask for an inspection by a technician before buying.

Commercial Brands

Top-tier names like Tajima, Barudan, and ZSK are trusted worldwide for reliability, speed, and resale value.

  • Pros: Built for long-term use, high production, and professional quality.

  • Cons: Higher learning curve, less one-on-one support.

  • Tip: Join Facebook groups or forums to get real-world feedback before investing.

Our Recommendation: Tajima SAI Embroidery Machine

The Tajima SAI is an excellent balance between compact design and professional results.

  • Beginner-friendly with a clean interface.

  • Reliable for both hobbyists and business owners.

  • Offers optional attachments (caps, large hoops, etc.) so you can grow with it.

  • Produces sharp, consistent stitches every time.

If your goal is to start a small printing business, this machine gives you commercial-grade quality without needing a factory-sized setup.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Embroidery Machine

The best embroidery machine depends on your goals.

  • For hobbyists: A single-needle home machine is affordable and versatile.

  • For businesses: A multi-needle machine with attachments will save time and maximize profit.

  • For both: Choose a brand that matches your needs, budget, and long-term plans.

💡 Pro Tip: You often get what you pay for — but a carefully chosen embroidery machine can quickly pay for itself if you’re starting a small printing business.

👉 Ready to elevate your embroidery projects? Reach us at info@ezstitchdigitizing.com or connect on our Facebook page.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a multi-needle machine worth it for beginners?
Yes — if your goal is business. Multi-needle machines allow faster work, fewer thread changes, and support for tubular items like hats and jackets, making them ideal for anyone serious about embroidery.

2. Can a single-needle embroidery machine handle business work?
Not efficiently. While great for hobbies, single-needle machines require constant attention for color changes, run slower, and are limited to flat surfaces — cutting into productivity.

3. Which brands are best for embroidery machines?
For hobbyists, Brother, Babylock, and Bernina are popular. For businesses, Tajima, Barudan, and ZSK are industry leaders known for durability and high resale value.

4. What attachments are essential for business embroidery?
Cap frames, tubular arms, and large hoops are the most important. These allow you to work on a wider variety of garments, increasing your service range and profit potential.

5. How much should I budget for an embroidery machine?
Hobby machines start under $2,000, while quality commercial models range from $8,000 to $15,000+. Consider it an investment — the right machine can pay itself off quickly when used for business.