Brother DZ2400 Review

Brother is one of the most popular sewing machine manufacturers in the industry. While they make a huge range of fantastic machine, where they really standout is in affordable computerized sewing machines. The Brother DZ2400 is a perfect example of this. With so many features and fantastic versatility it is one the best sewing machines available at its price point. Read the rest of my review to see why it is an amazing option for both beginners and experience users. If you are new to sewing and would like to see the best available machines for beginners then please click here.

First Impressions

First thing to mention about this machine is that it is fairly light and compact, weighing less than 10 lbs and having dimensions of 11.48 x 6.69 x 16.02 inches. This makes it a perfect machine for those that like to sew on the go or beginners that will be taking their machine to sewing classes. There is also a handle in the back of the machine adding to its portability. Some users prefer a proper handle on the top of the case however they can often get in way. The cutaway is an elegant solution to this problem.  Design wise it is simple but effective. Everything is clearly laid out, the blue borders are a nice touch and I love the grey floral decal. It really makes the Brother DZ2400 standout from the crowd.

As with most computerized Brother sewing machines it features a stitch diagram which is a neat way of showing the user what each stitch looks like and it’s corresponding number.  It is clearly a well-made machine all the dials and buttons have smooth movement.

FEATURES

One of my favorite features is the extra wide table. It adds so much versatility and is invaluable for large projects, particularly quilts. Another fantastic feature that is perfect for quilting is the drop feed. This make free motion possible and allows for some truly wonderful designs. When you remove the extension table there is a free arm that is well sized and perfect for sleeves and cuffs. The Extension table also features some storage space for your accessories. There is also a built in light that helps illuminate the work space but is not that bright so additional light might be necessary, especially if the room is not well lit.

There are a couple of great features for automating the setup, making the Brother DZ2400 much more user friendly. Firstly there is the automatic bobbin winder. It works great and will save a lot of time and effort in the long run. The bobbin is top loaded. I know this will be good news for most experienced users. Top loaded bobbins are easier to setup and are often much more reliable. The second automatic features is the needle threader. Honestly, I would be surprised if this wasn’t featured on a machine at this price. It works great and makes the machine much more accessible for those with poor dexterity or eye sight.

Since the Brother DZ2400 is a computerized sewing machine the quality of the screen is paramount to its usability. Happily the screen is great. It is large and bright giving lots of information. Stitches are selected via the screen. There are 8 buttons around the side that will allow you to change the stitch, the stitch length and the stitch width. It also recommends which presser foot is most appropriate for your currently selected stitch.

STITCHES

One of the most important factors when choosing a sewing machine is whether it has enough stitch functions for your needs. This is where the Brother DZ2400 really stands outs from its rivals. With 185 built-in stitches it offers huge versatility, giving you so many options that it can tackle any project. Out of the 185 stitches 130 of them are sewing stitches including your basic stitches such the straight stitch and zigzag stitch to a huge range of quilting, decorative and more. On top of this there are 55 alphanumeric stitches for monogramming that are perfect for personalizing designs. However, there is only one font.

Finally, there are 8 styles of one step buttonhole. This is brilliant for making clothes giving you so much possibility. All stitches can be selected via the LCD screen and can be customized by changing the length and width. The length can be alter up to 5mm while the width can be alter up to a huge 7mm. This allows for a level of customization not often seen.

This is what I love so much about this machine, it has something for every type of seamstress. Beginner machine often don’t have that many features and stitch functions, making them simple and great learning tools but often need replacing. The Brother DZ2400 manages to hold on to the simplicity while having enough features that it could last a lifetime.

SETUP AND ACCESSORIES

Setting up this machine is done like most Brother machines. They have done a fantastic job at making the machine intuitive and simple to setup. For complete beginners there is a user manual that is in English and Spanish. It offers a comprehensive guide through the whole of the setup process and all the functions of the machine. For those that would prefer to be shown how to set up the machine there is a great instructional DVD included.

When purchasing the Brother DZ2400 it comes with a huge range of accessories so that you can get started straightaway. The included accessories are:

• Accessory bad with needle set
• Ballpoint needs
• Twin needle
• Seam ripper
• Screwdriver
• Extra spool pin
• 4 bobbins
• Bobbin clip
• Cleaning brush
• Eyelet punch
• 12 included presser feet

Including a massive 12 presser feet really shows just how much this machine is capable of. Offering so much for such a small price. Especially considering that additional presser feet cost around $20, which means the presser value alone is around $240. The included presser feet are: Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Zipper foot, Overcasting foot, Blind stitch foot, Walking foot, Quilting guide, Quilting foot, ¼ “ Quilting foot, Monogramming foot and Zigzag foot. As you can see this a great range offering endless capabilities. Not often seen included is the walking foot. One of my personal favorites, offer additional feed making short work of those thicker materials.

While there is a fantastic range included, it is possible to buy additional presser feet if needed. For example there is a roller foot available. In my test I had no problem with leather or vinyl, a roller foot will make working with those materials a little easier.

Something that doesn’t come with the Brother DZ2400 is a case. So those that wish to sew in multiple places or put there machine after use, buying a separate case may be necessary. There are plenty of compatible cases on the market. I would just this universal case.

PERFORMANCE

Not only does the Brother DZ2400 have the features of a more expensive machine, it has the performance of one. After much testing on a variety of fabrics this machine has really surprised me. Among other things I made a quilt and repair a denim jacket with it. Not once did it struggle or skip. Sewing consistently at all time. The 7-point feed dog is clear doing its job. Fabric was pulled through and there was great tension throughout. The DZ2400 is capable of sewing at 850 stitches per minute with the option of changing speed via a speed control dial on the front of the machine.

SPECIFICATION

Number of Stitches: 185

Stitch Speed: 850

Bobbin Loading: Top

Weight: 9.9 lbs

Dimensions: 11.48 x 6.69 x 16.02 inches

Included Presser feet: 12

Auto Buttonholes: 8 styles of 1-step Auto sizing

Auto Needle Threading: Yes

Warranty: 25 Years Limited

FINAL VERDICT

To conclude this review: The Brother DZ2400 is one of most well rounded machines available at this price point. Most clearly excel for one type of sewing whether it is clothes or quilts. The DZ2400 can do it all. Packed with features and huge 185 stitches, anything is possible with this jack of all trades. While it has much to offers more advanced users, beginners should defiantly consider this machine. It is a little more expensive than most beginner models however it is defiantly worth the price.

PROS AND CONS

Pros

• Packed with features
• 185 stitches
• Fantastic value
• Performance of a machine twice its price
• Great range of accessories
• Auto needle threader/bobbin winder

Cons

• Dim light
• No case included