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Embroidery Machines

Looking Beyond the Janome Memory Craft Dedicated Embroidery? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

Review 6 alternatives to the Janome Memory Craft 500E. We compare published specifications including embroidery area dimensions and machine weight to help you choose.

Looking Beyond the Janome Memory Craft Dedicated Embroidery? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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If you are exploring janome memory craft dedicated embroidery alternatives, you likely value the Janome Memory Craft 500E for its stability and build quality. This machine weighs 20 pounds and features a dedicated embroidery function. However, its 160-inch width specification suggests a very large footprint that may not fit smaller workspaces. You might also prefer a different brand or a more compact design for easier storage.

The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original machine’s focus on dedicated embroidery. Several options offer larger hoop sizes, such as the 6 x 10 inch area found in Brother models, which suits large projects better than smaller 4 x 4 inch hoops. Others provide wireless connectivity or touchscreen interfaces for easier design transfer. Some entries prioritize a smaller footprint for beginners, while others emphasize fast stitching speeds. Each option targets specific needs, from budget-friendly DIY setups to premium software integration, ensuring you find a machine that matches your exact workspace and project requirements.

Comparing Alternatives to Janome 500E

Brother Inno-vis NQ1700E Large Embroidery Machine

The Brother Innov-is NQ1700E offers a significantly larger 6 by 10 inch embroidery area compared to the Janome 500E. This machine weighs 28 pounds, making it heavier than the 20-pound Janome. It includes BES Blue Software for wireless design transfer and on-screen editing. You gain a substantial library of built-in designs and modern connectivity. However, you sacrifice the Janome’s compact footprint. The NQ1700E is wider and deeper. Choose this if you need large workspace capacity and digital workflow integration over a smaller, dedicated tool.

Brother NQ1700E Large Hoop Embroidery Machine

The Brother NQ1700E Large Hoop Embroidery Machine prioritizes speed and area. It stitches at 850 SPM, which is faster than typical dedicated machines. It also features a large 6 by 10 inch hoop. This model weighs 27 pounds, which is heavier than the Janome 500E. You get high-speed performance for large projects. However, you may have fewer built-in designs than other premium models. This machine fits users who value stitching speed and large hoop sizes. It is a solid choice for dedicated home embroidery work where speed matters more than multi-functionality.

Poolin EOC06 11×7.9 Embroidery Machine

The Poolin EOC06 provides a large 7.9 by 11 inch embroidery area. It features a large 7-inch screen for easy design editing. This machine weighs 35 pounds, making it the heaviest option listed. It is suitable for DIY projects. You gain a large workspace and intuitive screen control. However, it lacks the brand reputation of Janome or Brother. The Poolin is heavier and bulkier. Choose this if you need a large area for DIY creations and do not require wireless connectivity or premium brand support. It is a practical budget option for large projects.

Brother Wireless Sewing and Embroidery Machine

The Brother SE700 is a compact all-in-one starter machine. It features a 4 by 4 inch embroidery area, which is much smaller than the Janome 500E. It weighs only 15.6 pounds, making it lighter and easier to move. It includes Wi-Fi connectivity and a 7-inch touchscreen. You gain versatility as a sewing and embroidery combo. However, you lose the large workspace and dedicated embroidery focus of the Janome. This machine fits beginners who value convenience and wireless features. It is ideal for small projects and home crafters who want a single machine for multiple tasks.

Brother Skitch Single-Needle Embroidery Machine

The Brother Skitch PP1 is designed for portability and app-based design. It has a 4 by 4 inch embroidery area, significantly smaller than the Janome 500E. It weighs 16.6 pounds. This machine fits users who prioritize a small footprint. You gain app control and easy design transfer. However, you sacrifice large hoop sizes and built-in sewing functions. The Skitch is compact and lightweight. Choose this if you need a portable setup for hobbyist embroidery. It is practical for those who value app integration and space-saving design over large workspace capacity.

Brother 5×7 Wireless Embroidery Machine

The Brother PE900 Wireless Embroidery Machine offers Wi-Fi connectivity for wireless design transfer. It features a dedicated embroidery workflow. This machine weighs 21 pounds, slightly heavier than the Janome 500E. It is designed for home embroidery projects. You gain modern wireless features and a dedicated embroidery focus. However, it lacks the large workspace of the Janome. The PE900 is compact and efficient. Choose this if you value wireless connectivity and a streamlined embroidery process. It is a practical choice for users who want dedicated embroidery functions with modern digital integration.

#ProductBest forPrice
1Janome Memory Craft Dedicated Embroidery Machine Best overalldedicated home embroidery projects
2Brother Inno-vis NQ1700E Large Embroidery Machine Best softwareLarge projects and wireless design transfer
3Brother NQ1700E Large Hoop Embroidery Machine Best premiumLarge area home embroidery projects
4Poolin EOC06 11×7.9 Embroidery Machine Best budgetLarge DIY embroidery projects
5Brother Wireless Sewing and Embroidery Machine Best beginnersbeginners wanting an all-in-one starter machine
6Brother Skitch Single-Needle Embroidery Machine Also greatBeginners needing a compact, app-controlled embroidery setup
7Brother 5×7 Wireless Embroidery Machine Also greatWireless home embroidery projects
1Best overall
Janome Memory Craft Dedicated Embroidery Machine

Janome Memory Craft Dedicated Embroidery Machine

Best for: dedicated home embroidery projects

Intended Use
Embroidery
Dimensions
7.9 × 160 × 11 inches
Weight
20 pounds

The Janome Memory Craft 500E is an embroidery-only machine designed for dedicated stitching projects. It weighs 20 pounds and measures 11 inches in height. This model is ideal for users who prioritize a stable, heavy-duty build for home DIY creation. It suits those who want a specialized tool for embroidery rather than a combined sewing and embroidery unit. The Wythe color option adds a clean look to your workspace.

Pros
  • Dedicated embroidery functionality
  • 20-pound weight for stability
  • 11-inch height profile
  • Available in Wythe color
Cons
  • Heavier 20-pound build compared to lighter home models
  • Embroidery-only design limits sewing versatility
  • 7.9-inch length may restrict large hoop usage
Good fit if
  • You need a machine dedicated solely to embroidery
  • You prefer a stable, heavy base for precision work
  • You want a specialized tool for home DIY projects
Skip if
  • You require a machine that combines sewing and embroidery
  • You need a lightweight, portable unit for travel
  • You want to use hoops larger than 7.9 inches

Verdict: Janome Memory Craft 500E Embroidery Machine fits users who want a stable, dedicated embroidery tool. It is best for those prioritizing build quality over multi-functionality.

2Best software
Brother Inno-vis NQ1700E Large Embroidery Machine

Brother Inno-vis NQ1700E Large Embroidery Machine

Best for: Large projects and wireless design transfer

Embroidery Area
6" x 10"
Display Size
4.85"
Connectivity
Wireless
Built-In Designs
258
Intended Use
Embroidery
Included Accessories
Software

The Brother Innov-is NQ1700E offers a 6 x 10 inch embroidery area and 258 built-in designs. It features a 4.85 inch color LCD touch screen for on-screen editing. Wireless capability allows design transfer via Design Database Transfer. The machine includes BES Blue software. It suits users needing a large work area and extensive design libraries.

Pros
  • Generous 6 x 10 inch embroidery area
  • 258 built-in embroidery designs
  • 4.85 inch color LCD touch screen
  • Wireless design transfer capability
Cons
  • Heavier build at 28 pounds
  • Fewer built-in designs than some competitors
Good fit if
  • You need a large 6 x 10 inch embroidery area
  • You want wireless design transfer via network
  • You prefer on-screen editing on a color touch screen
Skip if
  • You require a compact machine under 20 pounds
  • You need more than 258 built-in designs
  • You prefer a smaller 4 x 4 inch work area

Verdict: Brother Innov-is NQ1700E with BES Blue Software fits users who need a large 6 x 10 inch embroidery area and wireless connectivity. It is ideal for those who value on-screen editing and a substantial library of built-in designs.

3Best premium
Brother NQ1700E Large Hoop Embroidery Machine

Brother NQ1700E Large Hoop Embroidery Machine

Best for: Large area home embroidery projects

Embroidery Area
6" x 10"
Maximum Speed
850 stitches per minute
Display Size
4.85"
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Wireless LAN
Built-In Designs
258
Intended Use
Embroidery

The Brother NQ1700E is a dedicated embroidery machine with a 6 x 10 inch hoop. It reaches 850 stitches per minute and includes 258 built-in designs. Wi-Fi connectivity allows wireless transfer to the 4.85 inch color touchscreen. It weighs 27 pounds and measures 16 inches on each side. This model suits users who need a large working area and fast stitching for home projects.

Pros
  • 6 x 10 inch embroidery area
  • 850 stitches per minute maximum speed
  • 258 built-in embroidery designs
  • Wi-Fi wireless design transfer
  • 4.85 inch color LCD touchscreen
Cons
  • Heavier build at 27 pounds compared to lighter home models
  • Fewer built-in designs than some competitors offering 500 or more
  • Smaller embroidery area than machines with 11 x 14 inch hoops
Good fit if
  • You need a large 6 x 10 inch embroidery area
  • You want wireless design transfer via Wi-Fi
  • You prefer a dedicated machine with a color touchscreen
Skip if
  • You require a machine with 500 or more built-in designs
  • You need an embroidery area larger than 6 x 10 inches
  • You prefer a lightweight machine under 20 pounds

Verdict: Brother NQ1700E Large Hoop Embroidery Machine fits users who prioritize a large 6 x 10 inch hoop and fast 850 SPM stitching over maximum design count. It is a solid choice for dedicated home embroidery work.

4Best budget
Poolin EOC06 11x7.9 Embroidery Machine

Poolin EOC06 11×7.9 Embroidery Machine

Best for: Large DIY embroidery projects

Embroidery Area
11 x 7.9 inches
Display Size
7-inch
Connectivity
USB, Wireless LAN
Built-In Designs
200
Intended Use
Embroidery, DIY
Suitable For
DIY Projects

The Poolin EOC06 offers a 7.9 x 11 inch embroidery area, making it suitable for larger projects like table runners and sleeves. It features a 7-inch color touch screen and includes 200 built-in designs. You can transfer files via USB or Wireless LAN. This machine comes with essential supplies like thread and stabilizers, allowing you to start creating immediately.

Pros
  • 7.9 x 11 inch maximum embroidery area
  • 7-inch LCD color touch screen
  • 200 built-in patterns and 8 fonts
  • Supports Wireless LAN and USB transfer
  • Includes 6 rolls of polyester thread
Cons
  • Heavier at 35 pounds compared to lighter competitors
  • Fewer built-in designs than premium models
  • Smaller display size than high-end alternatives
Good fit if
  • You need a large 7.9 x 11 inch hoop for bigger projects
  • You prefer a large 7-inch touch screen interface
  • You want included supplies to start immediately
Skip if
  • You require a lighter machine under 35 pounds
  • You need more than 200 built-in designs
  • You prefer a smaller display than 7 inches

Verdict: Poolin EOC06 Embroidery Machine fits DIY creators who need a large 7.9 x 11 inch area and a large 7-inch screen for easy design editing.

5Best beginners
Brother Wireless Sewing and Embroidery Machine

Brother Wireless Sewing and Embroidery Machine

Best for: beginners wanting an all-in-one starter machine

Embroidery Area
4" x 4"
Display Size
3.7"
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, USB
Built-In Designs
135
Intended Use
Embroidery, Beginners
Display Type
Touchscreen

The Brother SE700 combines sewing and embroidery in one unit. It features a 4 x 4 inch embroidery field and a 3.7 inch touchscreen. You get 135 built-in designs and Wi-Fi connectivity for file transfers. This machine suits beginners who want an all-in-one starter tool with wireless options.

Pros
  • 4 x 4 inch embroidery area with included hoop
  • 135 built-in designs and 10 lettering fonts
  • 3.7 inch LCD color touchscreen for editing
  • Wi-Fi and USB connectivity for file transfer
Cons
  • 4 x 4 inch embroidery field is smaller than the 6 x 10 inch area on other list options
  • 15.6 pound weight is heavier than some single-needle competitors
  • 135 built-in designs is fewer than the 500E or NQ1700E models
Good fit if
  • You need a single machine for both sewing and embroidery
  • You are a beginner looking for built-in design variety
  • You want wireless file transfer without complex setup
Skip if
  • You require a large 6 x 10 inch embroidery hoop
  • You need advanced industrial-grade speed or features
  • You prefer a lightweight portable unit under 10 pounds

Verdict: Brother SE700 4×4 Embroidery Combo is a practical entry point for home crafters who value convenience and wireless connectivity over large workspace capacity.

6Also great
Brother Skitch Single-Needle Embroidery Machine

Brother Skitch Single-Needle Embroidery Machine

Best for: Beginners needing a compact, app-controlled embroidery setup

Needle Count
1
Embroidery Area
4" x 4"
Maximum Speed
400 SPM
Connectivity
Bluetooth
Sewing Function
Embroidery only
Dimensions
17.2 × 9.02 × 12.5 inches

The Brother Skitch is a single-needle embroidery machine with a 4 by 4 inch hoop and a maximum speed of 400 stitches per minute. It connects via Bluetooth to the required Artspira mobile app for design import and management. This compact unit weighs 16.6 pounds and measures 17.2 inches in length. It suits beginners who want a small footprint and app-driven workflow for personalizing items like towels and jeans.

Pros
  • Bluetooth connectivity for mobile app control
  • Compact 4 by 4 inch embroidery area
  • Maximum speed of 400 stitches per minute
  • Lightweight 16.6 pound build for easy storage
Cons
  • 4 by 4 inch hoop is smaller than the 6 by 10 inch options available on other list items
  • 400 stitches per minute speed is lower than the higher-speed machines in this category
  • Embroidery-only function excludes traditional sewing capabilities
Good fit if
  • You need a small machine that fits in a limited craft space
  • You prefer designing and importing files through a mobile app
  • You are new to embroidery and want a simple setup
Skip if
  • You require a machine that also performs standard sewing tasks
  • You frequently need to embroider designs larger than 4 by 4 inches
  • You want a standalone computer interface without using a mobile app

Verdict: Brother Skitch PP1 4×4 Embroidery Machine is a practical entry point for hobbyists who value portability and app-based design. It fits users who prioritize a small footprint over large hoop sizes or built-in sewing functions.

7Also great
Brother 5x7 Wireless Embroidery Machine

Brother 5×7 Wireless Embroidery Machine

Best for: Wireless home embroidery projects

Embroidery Area
5" x 7"
Display Size
3.7"
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, USB
Built-In Designs
193
Sewing Function
Embroidery only
Dimensions
17.5 × 9.49 × 11.8 inches

The Brother PE900 is a dedicated embroidery machine featuring a 5" x 7" field and 193 built-in designs. It connects via Wi-Fi and USB, allowing wireless transfers from your PC or mobile app. The 3.7-inch touchscreen simplifies editing. This model suits users who want wireless convenience and a moderate stitch count without sewing capabilities.

Pros
  • 193 built-in embroidery designs
  • Wireless LAN and USB connectivity
  • 3.7-inch LCD touchscreen for editing
  • 5" x 7" embroidery area
Cons
  • 5" x 7" hoop is smaller than the 6" x 10" option in this list
  • 21-pound weight is heavier than some competitors
  • Embroidery-only function lacks sewing features
Good fit if
  • You want wireless file transfer via Wi-Fi
  • You need a moderate number of built-in designs
  • You prefer a touchscreen interface for editing
Skip if
  • You require a larger than 5" x 7" embroidery area
  • You need a machine that also sews
  • You prefer a lighter, more portable unit

Verdict: The Brother PE900 Wireless Embroidery Machine fits users who value wireless connectivity and a dedicated embroidery workflow over sewing versatility.

Specifications side by side

SpecJanome Memory Craft Dedicated Embroidery MachineBrother Inno-vis NQ1700E Large Embroidery MachineBrother NQ1700E Large Hoop Embroidery MachinePoolin EOC06 11×7.9 Embroidery MachineBrother Wireless Sewing and Embroidery MachineBrother Skitch Single-Needle Embroidery MachineBrother 5×7 Wireless Embroidery Machine
Needle Count–––––1–
Embroidery Area–6" x 10"6" x 10"11 x 7.9 inches4" x 4"4" x 4"5" x 7"
Maximum Speed––850 stitches per minute––400 SPM–
Display Size–4.85"4.85"7-inch3.7"–3.7"
Connectivity–WirelessWi-Fi, Wireless LANUSB, Wireless LANWi-Fi, USBBluetoothWi-Fi, USB
Built-In Designs–258258200135–193
Sewing Function–––––Embroidery onlyEmbroidery only
Intended UseEmbroideryEmbroideryEmbroideryEmbroidery, DIYEmbroidery, BeginnersEmbroideryEmbroidery
Display Type––––Touchscreen––
Included Accessories–SoftwareSoftware––––
Suitable For–––DIY Projects–––
Dimensions7.9 × 160 × 11 inches19 × 23 × 20 inches16 × 16 × 16 inches23 × 12.5 × 27 inches16.5 × 7.76 × 12.1 inches17.2 × 9.02 × 12.5 inches17.5 × 9.49 × 11.8 inches
Weight20 pounds36 pounds27 pounds35 pounds15.6 pounds16.6 pounds21 pounds
ColorWytheWhiteWhiteredWhiteGrey/BlackWhite
ModelMemory Craft 500ENQ1600ENQ1700EEOC06SE700PP1PE900
Size–16"x27"x11"Overlock SergernoSE700 – Machine Only20.01×11.89×17.95PE900 – Machine Only

Frequently asked questions

Which embroidery machine has the largest hoop size?

The Brother Innov-is NQ1700E and the Poolin EOC06 both offer large embroidery areas. The Brother model provides a 6 by 10 inch workspace, which is ideal for substantial home projects. The Poolin EOC06 features a 7.9 by 11 inch area, catering to DIY creators who need extra space for larger designs.

Is there a lightweight option for beginners?

Yes, the Brother SE700 is a practical choice for beginners. It weighs only 15.6 pounds, making it easy to move. This machine includes a 7-inch touchscreen and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to transfer designs wirelessly. It is best for users who value convenience and a small footprint over large workspace capacity.

Do any models include wireless connectivity?

Several models support wireless design transfer. The Brother Innov-is NQ1700E uses BES Blue Software for this purpose. The Brother SE700 and PE900 both feature built-in Wi-Fi. This connectivity allows you to send designs directly from your computer or mobile device to the machine without needing USB cables.

Which machine is best for large DIY projects?

The Poolin EOC06 is designed for large DIY embroidery projects. It offers a 7.9 by 11 inch embroidery area and a large 7-inch screen for easy design editing. Weighing 35 pounds, it is a sturdy option for creators who need a dedicated tool with a substantial workspace for their crafts.

Are there compact machines for small spaces?

The Brother Skitch PP1 is a compact option for hobbyists. It features a 4 by 4 inch embroidery area and app-based design control. Weighing 16.6 pounds, it fits users who prioritize portability and a small footprint. It is ideal if you do not require large hoop sizes or built-in sewing functions.

Which machine offers the fastest stitching speed?

The Brother NQ1700E Large Hoop Embroidery Machine offers a fast 850 SPM stitching speed. It prioritizes speed and a large 6 by 10 inch hoop over maximum design count. This makes it a solid choice for dedicated home embroidery work where efficiency and large area coverage are key priorities.

See also

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