Best refurbished sewing and embroidery machines

Top pick: Brother SE700 — the safest combo to buy secondhand. It's a true sewing-and-embroidery machine with a 4"x4" hoop, 135 built-in designs and 4.4/5 from 97 owners, so parts, hoops and tutorials are everywhere.

Who the others suit:

• Brother SE2000 — you want a bigger hoop and more room to grow; the most capable mainstream combo here.
• Janome Memory Craft 1000 — you care more about stitch quality and quiet sewing than hoop size.
• Poolin EOC05 / EOC05RE — you want the widest embroidery area for the money; smaller brand, so support is thinner.
• Bernette B79 — you want a step up in build and quilting features.
• Singer SE9180 — a budget all-rounder, but the weakest owner ratings.

Check the machine's condition and that the hoop and accessories are included before paying.