Brother or Bernette? Sewing Machines Compared in 2026
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When comparing brother vs bernette sewing machine options, you face two distinct approaches. Both models offer automatic buttonholes and lightweight designs for home use. The Brother XM3700 focuses on stitch variety with 37 built-in options. The Bernette B35 emphasizes mechanical durability and includes more presser feet. You need to decide if extra stitches or better accessory coverage matters more for your projects.
Key differences
| Aspect | Brother 37-Stitch Free Arm Sewing Machine | Bernette B35 Mechanical Sewing Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Stitch Count | 37 stitches | 23 stitches |
| Included Presser Feet | 5 feet | 7 feet |
| Type | Lightweight | Heavy Duty, Portable |
| Suitable For | Not listed | Quilting |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Brother 37-Stitch Free Arm Sewing Machine if
- You want more stitch variety for decorative projects.
- You prefer a machine with automatic needle threading.
Choose Bernette B35 Mechanical Sewing Machine if
- You need more included presser feet for different tasks.
- You prioritize a heavy-duty mechanical build for quilting.
Verdict: Choose the Brother XM3700 if stitch variety and automatic threading are your priorities. Pick the Bernette B35 if you need more presser feet and a mechanical build for quilting. Both machines handle basic home sewing well.
Brother vs Bernette Side by Side
stitch count
The Brother XM3700 offers 37 unique built-in stitches, providing a wider variety of options for decorative and utility sewing tasks. In contrast, the Bernette B35 provides 23 built-in stitches. While the Brother machine gives you more choices for creative projects, the Bernette covers essential utility needs. If you need specific decorative patterns, the Brother has the edge. If you stick to basics, both are sufficient.
included accessories
The Bernette B35 comes with seven presser feet, offering more variety for different fabric types and techniques right out of the box. The Brother XM3700 includes five sewing feet. The Brother does add four extra bobbins to its package, which is helpful for long projects. However, having more presser feet is generally more useful for versatility. The Bernette wins this round for including more feet.
build
The Bernette B35 is described as a durable, heavy-duty mechanical sewing machine with a sturdy build, designed for quilting and embroidery. It features manual stitch selection and thread tension control for precise adjustments. The Brother XM3700 is marketed as a lightweight sewing machine. It is designed for ease of use rather than heavy-duty industrial work. If you need a robust machine for tough fabrics, the Bernette is the better choice.
features
Both machines include an automatic needle threader and a one-step automatic buttonhole function, which simplifies common sewing tasks. The Brother XM3700 features a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin system. The Bernette B35 also uses a drop-in bobbin system but adds a manual thread cutter and a built-in needle threader. Both provide LED lighting. The Brother includes a free arm for cylindrical projects, which is a distinct advantage for sewing cuffs and sleeves.
portability
The Brother XM3700 weighs 12.5 pounds, making it lighter and easier to move around your workspace or store away. The Bernette B35 weighs 15.8 pounds, which is heavier and less convenient for frequent transport. Although the Bernette is described as portable, its actual weight is higher than the Brother model. If you plan to carry your machine to classes or travel often, the lighter Brother is the more practical option for you.
Which Brother or Bernette suits you?
Decorative stitch lovers needing variety
You get 37 unique built-in stitches on this Brother model. This count offers more decorative and utility options than the Bernette’s 23 stitches. The free arm design also helps you sew cuffs and sleeves easily. You receive five included presser feet to handle different tasks right away.
Quilters wanting extra workspace and feet
This Bernette machine includes seven presser feet, giving you more specialized tools than the Brother’s five. It comes with an extension table for larger quilting projects. The mechanical build provides sturdy durability for heavy fabrics. You also get manual tension control for precise adjustments on various textile weights.
Beginners prioritizing ease of use
The Brother XM3700 features an automatic needle threader and a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin. These specs simplify threading for new users. You also benefit from Brother’s free technical support via phone or chat. The lightweight design at 12.5 pounds makes it easy to move around your sewing space.
The products compared
Brother 37-Stitch Free Arm Sewing Machine
Best for: Beginners needing lightweight, easy-to-use sewing
- Stitch Count
- 37
- Included Presser Feet
- 5 sewing feet
- Dimensions
- 15 × 31 × 29 inches
- Weight
- 12.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Brother 37-Stitch Free Arm Sewing Machine Affiliate link
The Brother XM3700 is a lightweight sewing machine designed for beginners and home use. It features 37 built-in stitches, including a one-step auto-size buttonhole, and comes with five included presser feet. The unit weighs 12.5 pounds and measures 17.5 by 7.6 by 14.25 inches. You will appreciate the automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin for easy setup. This model supports free arm sewing for cylindrical projects like cuffs and sleeves.
Pros
- 37 unique built-in stitches for varied projects
- Automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in bobbin
- Includes five presser feet and a free arm
- Lightweight 12.5-pound design for easy storage
Cons
- Fewer built-in stitches than the Bernette B35
- Limited to five included presser feet
- No mention of smart connectivity or app control
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight machine for home sewing
- You want automatic threading to speed up setup
- You sew cylindrical items like sleeves or cuffs
Skip if
- You require more than 37 built-in stitches
- You need extensive presser foot variety
- You prefer a heavier, industrial-grade build
Verdict: Brother XM3700 Lightweight Sewing Machine offers essential features for beginners who value ease of use and portability over stitch variety.
Bernette B35 Mechanical Sewing Machine
Best for: Quilters needing portable manual control
- Stitch Count
- 23
- Included Presser Feet
- 7 presser feet
- Type
- Heavy Duty, Portable
- Suitable For
- Quilting
- Dimensions
- 5.51 × 4.65 × 6.73 inches
- Weight
- 15.8 pounds
View on Amazon: Bernette B35 Mechanical Sewing Machine Affiliate link
The Bernette B35 is a portable, heavy-duty mechanical sewing machine with 23 built-in stitches. It includes seven presser feet and an automatic one-step buttonhole function. The unit features a drop-in bobbin system, manual tension control, and an LED light. Weighing 15.8 pounds, it offers a sturdy build for quilting and crafting. This model suits users who need reliable manual adjustments and essential utility stitches.
Pros
- 23 built-in utility and decorative stitches
- One-step automatic buttonhole function
- Seven included presser feet for versatility
- Drop-in bobbin system for easy threading
- Manual thread tension control for precision
Cons
- Lower stitch count than the 37-stitch Brother XM3700
- Manual stitch selection lacks electronic automation
- No digital display or stitch memory
Good fit if
- You want a portable machine for quilting
- You prefer manual tension control
- You need automatic buttonholes
Skip if
- You require more than 23 stitches
- You want electronic stitch selection
- You need a digital display
Verdict: Bernette B35 Swiss Design Sewing Machine is a solid mechanical option for quilters who value portability and manual control. It fits users who prioritize essential stitches and automatic buttonholes over a high stitch count.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Brother 37-Stitch Free Arm Sewing Machine | Bernette B35 Mechanical Sewing Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Stitch Count | 37 | 23 |
| Included Presser Feet | 5 sewing feet | 7 presser feet |
| Type | not stated | Heavy Duty, Portable |
| Suitable For | not stated | Quilting |
| Dimensions | 15 × 31 × 29 inches | 5.51 × 4.65 × 6.73 inches |
| Weight | 12.5 pounds | 15.8 pounds |
| Size | 17.5 x 7.6 x 14.25 inches | not stated |
| Color | White | silver |
| Model | XM3700 | Bernette B35_SML |
Frequently asked questions
Which sewing machine is lighter to carry?
The Brother XM3700 is the lighter option for portability. It weighs 12.5 pounds, making it easier to move between rooms or take to classes. The Bernette B35 is heavier at 15.8 pounds. You should choose the Brother model if carrying weight is a priority for your sewing routine.
Do these machines have free arm capabilities?
The Brother XM3700 features a free arm design. This allows you to sew cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items with ease. The Bernette B35 data does not specify a free arm. If you frequently sew garments with narrow openings, the Brother model offers this specific structural advantage.
Is Bernette known for mechanical durability?
Yes, the Bernette B35 is described as a mechanical sewing machine. It emphasizes manual control and Swiss design durability. This makes it suitable for users who prefer direct mechanical operation over electronic controls. The Brother XM3700 is also lightweight but focuses more on stitch variety than mechanical construction details.
Which machine is better for quilting?
The Bernette B35 is explicitly noted as suitable for quilting. It offers portable manual control, which many quilters prefer for precision. While the Brother XM3700 has more stitches, the Bernette model is positioned as a solid mechanical option for those who value essential stitches and portability during quilting projects.
What is the size difference between the two machines?
The Brother XM3700 has larger overall dimensions than the Bernette B35. The Brother measures 17.5 inches in length, while the Bernette B35 is significantly more compact. However, note that the Bernette specs list a width of 4.65 inches and height of 6.73 inches, which seems unusually small for a full machine. You should verify these specific measurements if space is tight.
Can I use these machines for beginners?
Both models are suitable for beginners, but they offer different experiences. The Brother XM3700 is recommended for beginners needing lightweight, easy-to-use features. It provides 37 stitches for versatility. The Bernette B35 is also accessible but focuses on mechanical operation. You should choose the Brother model for electronic ease or the Bernette for manual control.