Owning a portable sewing machine gives you the freedom to sew from anywhere. Sew from the comfort of your couch, in a café, or even in an airport. These compact yet strong sewing machines are the perfect accessory for those interested in sewing on the go. Their small size is great for travel and for those just learning how to sew. If you’re interested in adding a portable sewing machine to your sewing arsenal or are new to the hobby, keep reading. Here is our list of the best portable sewing machines.
We read through countless portable sewing machine reviews to determine the best portable sewing machines for quilting, best portable sewing machine for beginners, and much more.
Our Top Picks:
In a hurry? Here’s an overview of our top picks:
  | Best Overall: Magicfly Portable Sewing Machine. Our overall top pick for the best portable sewing machine is fixed with all the features to provide sewists with the optimal experience. It’s sure to become a favorite. |
  | Best Runner-up: Laixwec Portable Multi-Speed Sewing Machine. Coming in second place for the best portable sewing machine is this stylish blue one from Laixwec. It comes with all the usual features of a standard sewing machine in a small size. |
  | Best Budget: Mini Handheld Portable Sewing Machine. Handheld sewing machines are excellent options if you’re planning on traveling with your sewing machine. They are also great for those on a tight budget. |
  | Best Beginners: Sew Mighty Original Portable Sewing Machine. If you’re looking for a portable sewing machine that still features the control offered by a foot pedal, here is one for you to seriously consider. |
  | Best Splurge: Singer Simple Portable Sewing Machine. From one of the leading brands of sewing machines is our favorite pick for those looking to splurge on a new portable sewing machine. It has all the bells and whistles. |
  | Best Heavy Duty: Kacsoo Portable Sewing Machine. Our favorite pick for the best heavy duty portable sewing machine is from Kacsoo. It’s hard to beat the strength and durability of this machine. |
  | Best Mini: NEX Mini Portable Sewing Machine. The best mini portable sewing machine is from NEX. It’s compact size does nothing to detract from its ability to perform basic stitches. |
Best Portable Sewing Machines: A Closer Look
Here’s a detailed look at each of the portable sewing machines
1. Magicfly Portable Sewing Machine
The best portable sewing machine overall
Brand: Magicfly | Stitch Patterns: 12 | Backstitch: Available | Inclusions: Thread Cutter | Price: 💰💰💰💰
It’s hard to beat a multi-purpose portable sewing machine. It’s ideal for beginners as it is easy to use. A clear threading guide printed on the body helps you thread effortlessly. There are two supplies of power – one that plugs into an outlet on a wall and a battery. This allows you to truly take the sewing machine anywhere. A common concern with portable sewing machines is their inability to work on thicker fabrics. With this machine from Magicfly, you don’t have to worry about what kind of fabric you’re using. Here is an all-purpose and reliable small portable sewing machine that you’re sure to enjoy.
Reviewers Like
- Comes with many useful accessories
- Must go slowly if working with thicker fabrics
- Great for those just learning or returning to sewing
Reviewers Dislike
- Plug-in cord isn’t very long
- Slightly louder than a standard sewing machine
- Guiding holes instead of slits for threading are somewhat challenging to use
2. Laixwec Portable Multi-Speed Sewing Machine
The best runner up portable sewing machine
Brand: Laixwec | Stitch Patterns: 1 | Backstitch: Not available | Inclusions: Thread Cutter | Price: 💰💰💰
While this is a portable sewing machine, it looks and functions just like a standard sewing machine. The cord is long enough to reach most outlets, and a peddle can be attached for optimal control when sewing. A double thread design allows for a more precise and straight stitch. Its safety features make it ideal for children to use. Its versatility and compact size give it agile function in a home, office, or anywhere else. Laixwec’s machine is one of the best small portable sewing machines for those interested in DIY projects. Feel free to get creative with this one, crafting anything from stuffed animals to clothes to blankets.
Reviewers Like
- Perfect for small repairs and DIY projects
- Light enough to take to crafting events or trips
- Comes with LED lights to see your stitch clearly
Reviewers Dislike
- No reverse stitch, only forward
- Not the most durable sewing machine
- Needle broke easily for some reviewers
3. Mini Handheld Portable Sewing Machine
The best budget portable sewing machine
Brand: GODCRYSTAL | Stitch Patterns: 1 | Backstitch: Not available | Inclusions: None | Price: 💰
Maybe you’re interested in buying a portable sewing machine but not interested in paying big bucks to make it happen. The good news is that you can purchase a quality sewing machine for a very affordable price. This one is the best handheld sewing machine, and it doesn’t take long to see why. Not only is this sewing machine miniature, but it is also cordless, making it truly one of the greatest choices for those wanting to make quick repairs while away from home. It’s compact, lightweight, and designed for easy threading. A durable plastic exterior makes it able to remain functioning well even after being moved often. It works on all kinds of fabric, from silk to denim. This handheld sewing machine is an excellent option to consider for those new to sewing and not wanting to spend a lot of money on a sewing machine.
Reviewers Like
- Easy to set up and use
- Good sewing machine for those new to sewing
- Perfect for travel and other use away from home
Reviewers Dislike
- Not ideal for complex projects
- Paint on exterior casing chips easily
- Power cord for charging not included
4. Sew Mighty Original Portable Sewing Machine
The best beginners portable sewing machine
Brand: Sew Mighty | Stitch Patterns: 1 | Backstitch: Not available | Inclusions: Thread Cutter | Price: 💰💰
Sew Mighty is a portable sewing machine fit for all users, but especially beginners. If you’re looking to get into sewing and are interested in a sewing machine that works like a standard model, here’s one for your consideration. Not only is it affordable, but it can help you reliably work on most kinds of material. It can be powered by either batteries or a cord, allowing you to use it at home or take it on the go. The Sew Mighty can also be operated with or without a pedal. It comes with a tray that slides under the needle and expands your workspace. This small but mighty portable sewing machine is perfect for those new to sewing.
Reviewers Like
- Perfect sewing machine to learn on
- Comes with short instruction that are easy to follow
- Just the right size and weight to work on sewing projects away from home
Reviewers Dislike
- Somewhat tricky to pull the thread through
- Only does a straight stitch, not a backstitch
- Needle does wiggle slightly with thicker pieces of fabric
5. Singer Simple Portable Sewing Machine
The best splurge portable sewing machine
Brand: Singer | Stitch Patterns: 32 | Backstitch: Available | Inclusions: Thread Cutter | Price: 💰💰💰💰💰
Coming from one of the most renowned sewing machine brands is this portable sewing machine from Singer. While it is slightly larger than a Singer handheld sewing machine, it still travels easily while maintaining quality stitching abilities. The motor on this machine is powerful, performing 750 stitches per minute. It pushes through all kinds of fabric, allowing you to create gorgeous final products. It comes with a built-in needle threader that helps you thread the needle effortlessly and a sturdy metal frame to help the needle push through even the most stubborn fabric. Singer’s portable sewing machine is a great option to consider, whether you’re new or seasoned in sewing if you’re looking for a little splurge.
Reviewers Like
- Quick setup out of the box
- Once threaded, the machine is easy to work
- Ability to fix anything from glittery dresses to denim
Reviewers Dislike
- Less than desirable warranty on the product
- Threading is somewhat more complicated than other Singer machines
- Heavier portable sewing machine, making it slightly more challenging to travel with
6. Kacsoo Portable Sewing Machine
The best heavy duty portable sewing machine
Brand: Kacsoo | Stitch Patterns: 12 | Backstitch: Available | Inclusions: Thread Cutter | Price: 💰💰💰💰
Between its low levels of noise and long lifespan, this portable sewing machine from Kacsoo is one of the toughest on the market. The needle is strong enough to pierce through most types of material, allowing you a wide breadth of projects to explore. You can use a dial toward the top of the machine to easily switch between 12 stitch types. The machine comes with a clear instruction manual that makes it easy for beginners to use Kacsoo’s portable sewing machine.
Reviewers Like
- Clear usage and easy to control
- Equipped with tools to help with sewing process
- Sewing machine is very well packaged upon arrival
Reviewers Dislike
- Not easy to transport from place to place
- Some reviewers experience persistent jamming
- Somewhat expensive for the size of the machine
7. NEX Mini Portable Sewing Machine
The best mini portable sewing machine
Brand: NEX | Stitch Patterns: 1 | Backstitch: Not available | Inclusions: Thread Cutter | Price: 💰💰
This lightweight and compact portable sewing machine from NEX is perfect for those looking to use their machine for essential maintenance and repairs. The set comes with 4 spools of thread, an extension table to increase your workspace, and one-speed adjustable pedal. Reviewers consistently remark on the clear plastic covering that completely encloses the needle. This feature alone makes the NEX one of the best sewing machines for beginners, especially young children. It’s easy to operate if you follow the instructions in the manual. You can operate the sewing machine by batteries or a cord, whichever works best for you.
Reviewers Like
- Easily stores away in cupboards
- Perfect for young kids learning to stitch
- Needle comes completely covered to help better protect sewist’s fingers
Reviewers Dislike
- Foot pedal is not very responsive
- String easily gets hung up in the machine
- Only offers a straight stitch, but this is usually fine for beginners
How Do I Choose A Portable Sewing Machine?
Now that you’ve considered some of the best portable sewing machines out there, take a look at what you should take into consideration when making your selection.
1
Weight
Weight might be the most crucial factor to consider when choosing your portable sewing machine. If you’re planning on traveling a lot with your new sewing machine, you’ll want one that is lightweight. Maybe a handheld portable sewing machine is the best option here. However, if you mostly plan to use it at home, choosing a larger, more durable sewing machine can be ideal. The machines that are better built for travel are less likely to stand up to tougher material. Larger sewing machines will be able to do this better.
2
Usability
Whether you’re just learning or a seasoned sewist, you’ll want a portable sewing machine that is easy to learn and use. A sewing machine that supports easy threading, backstitching, and multiple kinds of stitch patterns will allow you to conquer all your sewing projects easily. It’s important to know what kind of stitches and fabric you plan to use.
3
Durability
Durability often links with usability. If you want to sew tough fabric, you will need a sewing machine that is strong enough to do that. You’re more likely to find this outside of a handheld portable sewing machine. A strong needle that sits firmly in the machine and a bobbin that does its job well are both qualities that a durable portable sewing machine must-have. Luckily, there is a range of portable sewing machines with all levels of durability for you to choose from.
It’s time to choose your next portable sewing machine and get started on your next project.
Our Process
For this guide on best portable sewing machine, our team spent 3 hours researching the most popular options from over 20 brands and manufacturers big and small. We then read about thirty user reviews (both positive and negative) to discover what shoppers thought about each portable sewing machine. After comparing this data, we narrowed our list down to the top 7 on the market. You can count on this research to guide you to a mindful purchasing decision.
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Further Reading
