With that being said, most models nowadays have a lot more than just 30 built-in stitches, so this is another obvious flaw of this model. When it comes to sewing, the extra-large sewing space (the arm length to the right of the needle is about 8 inches) gives a lot of working space and 30 included stitches (6 basic stitches, 4 stretch stitches, 17 decorative stitches and 2 buttonhole stitches) do make the sewing process semi-automatic. The multi-hoop capability really does add another dimension to the XL-400. The extra-large hoop size allows you to embroider designs up to 18 ½ x 11 inches, therefore the hoop size remains the machine’s strongest feature, even when it comes to performance. All you have to do is insert the bobbin and then place the thread in the channel.Īll in all, when it comes to design and functionality, Singer’s XL-400 is a decent machine, but the computer requirement and computer-only controls are a let-down and certainly something many potential buyers will mind.
Thanks to this feature, there is no need to pull up the bobbin thread manually. The so called “Drop and Sew Bobbin System” is another good thing about the XL-400. LED lights illuminate the working surface, making it easy to view your work, while the large number of included embroidery designs (there’s 125) is certainly another significant pro.
When it comes to other features and functionality, the XL-400 does not disappoint. However, it’s still a huge con and definitely something to take into consideration if you’re thinking of buying the XL-400. Especially if the primary thing you’re looking for in a 2 in 1 machine is hoop size and multiple useful features. Weighing only 23 pounds it’s fairly lightweight too, but aesthetics don’t really mean much if other things aren’t up to the standard.įor some of you, such as the nice British lady in the video, this lack of ease of use might not be too big of a problem. The XL-400 does look nice and modern and it is not too large of a machine either.
A USB cable is included and computer requirements are pretty minimal (1 GB RAM, Windows XP or newer, 1GHz processor), so even aged devices should be able to work with the XL-400.
Once you connect the machine to your computer, you can customize built-in designs or import your own, whether you download them off the internet or design them yourself.
This is definitely not something you’d expect from an established and world-famous brand such as Singer. Obviously, most of us own computers and laptops, but the fact that the only way to control the machine is via the computer (through designated software), instead of via the machine itself, is a huge let down and an inherently flawed concept. This means that the machine has to be hooked to a computer, the whole time while in use. The lack of LCD display has, unfortunately, impacted the overall ease of use. This is pretty unusual, since LCD displays are expected nowadays and most embroidery machines have them. The second thing that stands out about the XL-400 is the lack of LCD display. This allows a lot of maneuver space, which is always a great thing. The extra-large hoop size, with the dimensions of 10 x 6 inches is what instantly stands out about the XL-400.