Can the LX3817A embroider?

No. It is a sewing machine with 17 stitches and no embroidery arm, hoop or designs. For embroidery you need the SE700 or another embroidery-capable machine.

Is the SE700 good for a beginner?

Yes. It has a guided LCD, an automatic needle threader and thread-change prompts, and reviewers rate it beginner friendly. The main limits are the single needle and the 4" x 4" hoop.

Which machine is better for hemming and mending?

The LX3817A handles basic seams, hems and buttonholes with less setup. The SE700 can do the same sewing plus 103 stitches, but you pay for embroidery hardware you may not use.

How big an embroidery design can the SE700 stitch?

Up to 4" x 4" (100mm x 100mm). Larger designs must be split or resized, which is the most common complaint about this machine.

Do I need extra software for the SE700?

No for the built-in designs and the free Design Database Transfer and Artspira apps. Editing beyond that, such as PE-Design, is a separate paid purchase.

The LX3817A carries a 25-year limited manufacturer warranty, which is the stronger coverage on paper. The SE700 is a computerized machine with a screen and wireless parts, so more can fail, though Brother builds both for home use.

Brother SE700 Computerized Sewing and Embroidery Machine vs Portable Embroidery Sewing Machine with 17 Stitches and Accessories

Buy the Brother SE700 if you want to embroider, not just sew. It is the only one of the two that embroiders at all, with a 4" x 4" field, 135 built-in designs and 10 fonts. The LX3817A is a plain 17-stitch sewing machine, so it is the cheaper pick only for mending and basic garment work. The SE700's lowest recorded price is $579.99 as of October 31, 2026; no price was given for the LX3817A.

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