Best Serger Reviews 2024– Top 10 Serger Comparison
The first step to creating any article of clothing is sewing and cutting. The machines used to stitch these items together are known as sergers. These essential machines develop constantly, reappearing with more sophisticated technology. With all of the different types available it can be difficult to choose among them.
The best serger for each user’s circumstances will meet his or her preferences, budget and specific needs. These powerful machines come complete with a variety of features and accessories. To work efficiently the user must buy a serger that will not be too complicated or expensive but will still have enough features to meet his or her total needs.
Amateur users will have different needs compared to those who use sergers professionally. Thus it is wisest to compile a list of suitable machines before deciding. Once the list has been narrowed down sergers should be compared and tested out.
- OUR TOP PICK: Brother 1034D
- Singer 14CG754 ProFinish
- BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS: Singer 14T968DC
- Janome 8002D
- Brother DZ1234 Designio Series
Take some of the guess work out of the process by checking the serger sewing machine reviews listed here. Featured are reviews from the most popular serger brands including Brother, SINGER, JUKI, Janome, Baby Lock, Tacony and more.
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Our Top Pick
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Best for Professionals
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What Is a Serger?
A serger is a versatile machine used for sewing, fabric crafting and quilting. In some countries, sergers are alternatively known as “overlockers.” The sergers allow items of professional quality to be sewn even at home. They often come built with a number of features including cutters, hemmers and different stitch options. The variety of machines and all of the possible options can be confusing to many new buyers. To make the process easier, here a number of popular and effective sergers have been compiled to make narrowing the choice down much easier before purchase.
Most people purchase a home serger for making their own clothing. While some would opt for a standard sewing machine a serger allows the garment to be finished with more durable overlock stitches. A standard sewing machine typically only creates straight stitches. A serger also allows the user to cut the fabric as they go. A serger supports numerous types of garment changes from creating casual wear to delicate lingerie. Users can also use the machine for simple touch-ups and adjustments to provide a professional look to old or new clothing.
Sergers can create a finished fabric edge, cut the fabric while simultaneously sewing it and join separate knits. Some models can also cover stitch by creating a double row of stitches. The incredibly versatile machines can combine thick and heavy fabrics as well as lighter materials such as silk, satin and organza with varying stitch styles. More flexible materials can handle up to four or five threads in a stitch while thinner fabrics do better with two. A fifth stitch may be used to chain stitch denim seams.
In addition to clothing, sergers are ideal for upholstery projects with fabrics around the home including cushions, covers, curtains and bedding. In these cases the serger can be used to produce decorative patterns on the finished product as opposed to the functional patterns on garments that need to be sewn discreetly.
The machines may start at around $200 while the best sergers can cost upwards of $1000 or more. The price range will be determined by the features of the machine as well as the brand. For those just starting out, there is no need to purchase the top sergers as many of the machines in the middle ranges can achieve many of the same results. Those at the professional levels will likely feel the need to get more advanced machines.
Some models contain features that others do not, thus it is worthwhile to ensure the model the user plans to buy contains all the features he or she needs on a daily basis. It may be necessary to compare models across features before purchase as well. Some models can operate with simple needles used in sewing machines while others will require specialized needles. If the machine is upgraded the needles may need to be replaced as well.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Serger
Ease of Use: Whether the user is an expert or is new to serging, he or she should look for an instrument that is simple to use and easy to thread. This factor may be the deciding point in choosing a serger thus it is best to check serger reviews to compare models.
Differential Feed: A differential feed allows users to work with light and silky fabrics offering a more professional-quality result. Some machines must be checked first to ensure they can also handle heavyweight fabrics. The differential feed also help the stitch stretch on some heavier fabrics.
Automatic Threading: For those that dread threading it may be best to look for a machine that features an automatic threading feature. Automatic threading works by using air to push the thread through the serger. For beginners this feature would help to prevent unnecessary waste of time.
The Number of Stitches: Determine how many stitches the serger has before committing to buy. It is essential to weigh options once considering if a potential machine offers numerous stitches. A quality machine should also be capable of managing curved stitches.
The Number of Threads: Limited machines are only capable of handling two or three threads. A four thread machine is most common, as a popular choice for casting a fabric layer before hemming. Most simple tasks can be achieved with a 2-4 thread serger. At least five threads should be available for a cover stitch for stretchy fabrics that are typically used in swimsuits or dance costumes.
Budget: Like any other choice for ordering a quality device the item’s cost must be within the user’s budget. Machines that are too intricate may have additional features that go unnoticed, wasting the user’s money. It may be best to compare serger reviews to find a machine that is effective and affordable.
Attachments: Determine whether any attachments or upgrades are available or if they may even come with the machine. These added features aid in performing more complex tasks. Whatever parts are attached must fit in with the user’s needs.
Tips on Choosing the Top Serger
Making the ultimate decision when choosing a serger can be difficult as there are so many types of machines with so many features to choose from. There are a number of factors to consider including the user’s personal needs and budget. The first step is to avoid choosing a machine just because of the bells and whistles. Just because a serger may have the best attachments or most sought-after features it does not mean it will be the best choice for every particular user. Even the most expensive machines may fail to meet the needs of some users.
On the other hand, however, those who use their sergers on a daily or near-daily basis will likely want a more high-end machine. Those who perform professional work will want a machine with lots of versatility. This ensures he or she will be able to adapt to any professional circumstances that may come up. That being said, the best search will be one that places the user’s personal needs above many other factors. It would be a waste of time, effort and money to end up with a serger that costs too much for the way it will be used or one that is a bargain but fails to meet the owner’s needs.
After narrowing down the decision but before making a final choice, the user should consider testing out various machines to compare them against one another. When testing machines it would also be wise to apply attachments to compare how machines operate under all conditions. Test machines with different fabrics if possible to see how they hold up with various materials. The top serger will be one that fits with the user’s skill level without leaving any features behind or making the process too complex with too many options. Even better, the best machine will be found for an acceptable price.
Top 3 Sergers for Beginners
Brother 1034D Serger
The Brother 1034D is a simple serger with 3 to 4 threads and 22 stitching functions. The machine is easy to use with color-coded threading and a looper system made to keep threads in the proper position. The Brother 1034D has a differential feed ratio of 0.7 to 2.0 helping to improve stitch quality on many types of fabric including thin and stretchy materials.
The serger can sew up a fast and high-quality piece at up to 1300 stitches per minute. Additionally, it requires no specialized needles to operate. The 1034D can use nearly any standard needles from traditional home sewing machines. When sewing the stitch width can be adjusted to achieve the perfect results for specific products. Stitch width ranges from 5 to 7 millimeters from the left needle.
The serger’s arm can be removed to allow for the stitching of continuous pieces such as sleeves while removing the stitch finger works to ensure stitches are even along the edge of the fabric. The needle area is lit with a light bright enough to remove the need for external lighting. The 1034D includes an instructional DVD and operation manual to assist beginners or those unfamiliar with the machine.
Click Here for Pricing, Pictures and Reviews of Brother 1034D on Amazon
Singer Pro Finish Thread Serger
The Singer 14CG754 ProFinish is an exceptionally versatile machine that operates at up to 1300 stitches per minute. The portable serger features a handle making transporting the machine to or from work much easier. It provides a variety of stitch styles for every type of project from table covers to delicate attire. The ProFinish features built-in rolled hems and stitch capability with 2, 3 or 4 threads.
The free arm sewing capability makes it easier to sew continuous pieces and smaller items and the adjustable tension keeps stitches uniform and neat. The threading system is organized by color to make the process easier thereby saving time. The adjustable length and width of the stitch prevents fabrics from bunching at the seams. The speed and ease of the serger makes it easy to get through multiple projects in a day while still maintaining professional quality.
Overall the SINGER 14CG754 is versatile and complete enough to tackle tasks at the expert level. It provides a number of durable stitching patterns and comes at an affordable price. The drawback to this machine is its warranty. While it comes included and the warranty for manufacturer’s defects extends for 25 years, don’t be fooled. The standard warranty for parts and labor only lasts for 90 days.
Click Here for Pricing, Pictures and Reviews of SINGER Pro Finish on Amazon!
Juki MO644D Portable Serger
The Juki MO644D is a compact serger made for sewing light to medium fabrics. While portable, the machine is made for commercial use and can be used by experts as well as amateurs. It serves 2 to 4 threads with an automatic rolled hem. The machine features a color-coded threading system as well as adjustable stitch length and differential feed.
The unit’s multi-purpose foot allows for sewing a variety of products including those involving elastic and tape. It also performs at a rate of 1,500 stitches per minute, faster than many other machines. The serger’s knife provides for fabric cuts that are consistent across materials. The seam guide provides accurate allowances for precise sewing.
The JUKI MO644D creates little vibration as it operates, significantly reducing potential noise. It also features a strong motor that can stand up to tougher fabrics such as denim. The serger’s shortcoming lies in the fact that it can be equipped with a limited number of accessories making it less versatile than many other machines.
Click Here for Pricing, Pictures and Reviews of Juki MO644D on Amazon
Best Serger for Professionals
SINGER 14T968DC Professional
The Singer 14T968DC has a 5-4-3-2 thread capability with various styles including rolled hems, chain stitching, cover hems and flatlocking. It features a color-coded thread diagram and an automatic self-adjusting tension system. Its differential feed is fully adjustable as are its stitch width and length. The portable machine features a handle for easy carry and saves time operating at 1,300 stitches per minute.
The SINGER 14T968DC can be fitted with an attachable clean pocket to capture trimmed fabric or thread and keep it neatly tucked away until disposed of. Its upper knife is movable to keep the serger in stitching function without getting in the way. The extra-high presser foot lifter provides additional clearance for keeping extra layers of fabric under the presser foot.
For amateur sewers the 14T968DC may be a bit complex to figure out at the beginning. For users of all levels the machine may be difficult to set up as well. Luckily the serger comes equipped with a CD workbook for easier navigation of all of its features. Compared to other sergers in its class, the 14T968DC is not only capable of professional quality but it comes at a suitable price as well.
Click Here for Pricing, Pictures and Reviews of SINGER 14T968DC on Amazon
Decision Time
Making a final decision on the serger sewing machine starts with knowledge of the most important factors needed in a quality machine. The top serger machine will be easy enough for even an amateur to manipulate. It should have an acceptable differential feed for material versatility along with automatic or color-coded threading features. The serger will have the appropriate number of threads as well as various stitching styles. Along with offering helpful attachments, the machine should be reasonably priced considering how it will be used.
The Brother 1034D is a very affordable machine with 3-4 thread capability and numerous hems. The SINGER 14CG754 ProFinish is also affordable with 2-3-4 thread capability. Faster than many other machines the JUKI MO644D operates at a maximum speed of 1,500 stitches per minute. The SINGER 14T968DC is an incredibly powerful machine that is perfect for professional tasks with automatic tension control and cover stitch capability. Each machine has its own perks when compared to the others, thus compromise will be made in one area or another.
This website can provide detailed serger reviews and comparisons for the most effective machines used today. Compare sergers with real reviews to make the right buying decisions without regrets.