The Brother PE900 and SE700 are two of the most popular embroidery machines in the $600-$750 price range, and buyers cross-shop them constantly. They share the same 5×7 embroidery area and similar price points. The real difference is fundamental: the PE900 is a dedicated embroidery machine, while the SE700 does both sewing and embroidery. Need everything out of the box? The SE700 bundle pairs the machine with thread, hoops, and accessories so you can start stitching the same day. Prefer a complete setup? The PE900 bundle comes with threads and accessories — worth checking if you want to skip a separate supply order.
This comparison breaks down exactly where each one wins, so you can pick the right one for how you actually work.
Quick Answer
Choose the PE900 if embroidery is your main focus and you already own a sewing machine (or do not sew). You get more built-in designs, a slightly better embroidery feature set, and a machine that does one thing extremely well.
Choose the SE700 if you want one machine for both sewing and embroidery. You get 135 sewing stitches plus a full 5×7 embroidery capability. This saves money and space if you need both functions.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Brother PE900 | Brother SE700 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Embroidery only | Sewing + embroidery combo |
| Max embroidery area | 5×7 inches | 5×7 inches |
| Built-in embroidery designs | 193 | 103 |
| Built-in fonts | 13 | 8 |
| Sewing stitches | None | 135 |
| Buttonhole styles | None | 8 |
| Max stitch speed | 710 SPM | 710 SPM |
| Wireless connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen | Full color LCD | Full color LCD |
| Auto needle threader | Yes | Yes |
| Free arm for sewing | No | Yes |
| Weight | 26.2 lbs | 26.2 lbs |
| Price Range | around $1100 (prices vary by retailer) | around $600 (prices vary by retailer) |
Where the PE900 Wins
More built-in designs. 193 vs 103 is a meaningful difference when you are starting out and buying designs has not become second nature yet. The PE900 gives you more to work with out of the box.
More fonts. 13 vs 8 built-in lettering fonts. For monogramming and name embroidery, having more font options means more variety for customers without needing third-party designs.
Single-purpose focus. When a machine only does embroidery, there is no mode-switching, no sewing foot to swap out, no wondering if you left it in the right configuration. You turn it on and embroider. For dedicated embroidery work, that simplicity is worth something.
Check Current Brother PE900 Price at SewingMachinesPlus
Where the SE700 Wins
Sewing capability. 135 built-in stitches, 8 buttonhole styles, and a free arm for sewing sleeves and cuffs. This is not a token sewing feature — the SE700 is a genuinely good sewing machine in its own right.
One machine, two functions. If you have limited space or budget, the SE700 eliminates the need to buy a separate sewing machine. For crafters who sew clothing, do alterations, or make quilted items alongside embroidery, this is a significant advantage.
Often cheaper. The SE700 typically sells for $50-$100 less than the PE900, which means you get more total functionality for less money — as long as you actually use the sewing features.
Check Current Brother SE700 Price at SewingMachinesPlus
Real-World Scenarios
Etsy seller making personalized gifts: PE900. You will use the extra designs and fonts, and switching between sewing and embroidery modes wastes time when you have orders to fill.
Crafter who sews and wants to add embroidery: SE700. You keep your sewing capability and gain embroidery without buying a second machine.
Beginner not sure what they will enjoy more: SE700. It gives you the flexibility to explore both crafts before committing to one.
Home business doing custom monograms and baby items: PE900. Dedicated embroidery workflow is faster when embroidery is the main revenue driver.
Person with limited desk space: SE700. One machine beats two for small workspaces.
Embroidery Quality: Is There a Difference?
No meaningful difference. Both machines use the same embroidery mechanism, same speed, same hoop size. The stitch quality is effectively identical. You will not be able to tell which machine made a given design by looking at the finished product.
Final Verdict
If embroidery is your primary focus, get the PE900. If you need both sewing and embroidery, get the SE700. You genuinely cannot go wrong with either — they are both excellent machines in the same family.
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