Brother CP60X Sewing Machine Review: Features, Pros And Cons
The Brother CP60X is one of the latest computerized sewing machine offerings from Brother, a leading brand known for its quality and affordability. In this comprehensive Brother CP60X review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features, pros and cons of this model to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your sewing needs.
Overview of the Brother CP60X Computerized Sewing Machine
The Brother CP60X is a feature-rich computerized sewing machine that comes at a very reasonable price point. It includes 60 built-in stitches including utility stitches, decorative stitches, heirloom stitches and 7 one-step auto-size buttonholes. Stitches are conveniently selected via the LCD display screen and selection buttons on the machine.
Some of the highlights of the CP60X include its automatic needle threader for effortless threading, durable metal interior frame allowing it to handle thicker fabrics, and multiple included presser feet for techniques like zippers, buttonholes, blind hemming and more. It’s also lightweight and portable thanks to its integrated carry handle.
brother cp60x review
Here is a quick overview of the key specifications of the Brother CP60X before we dive into the features and performance:
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Stitches | 60 built-in stitches including 7 buttonholes |
| Buttonhole Styles | 7 one-step auto-size buttonholes |
| Display Screen | LCD display |
| Maximum Stitch Width | 7mm |
| Maximum Stitch Length | 5mm |
| Speed | 750 stitches per minute |
| Frame | Metal interior frame |
| Presser Feet Included | 7 presser feet for various techniques |
| Weight | 14 lbs |
| Dimensions | 16.3” x 6.7” x 12.2” |
| Warranty | 25 years limited |
Now let’s take a more in-depth look at the functionality and performance of this computerized sewing machine to see what makes it tick!
Key Features and Benefits of the Brother CP60X
Here are some of the most important features and benefits of the CP60X that sewing enthusiasts will appreciate:
User-Friendly Computerized Operation
The CP60X offers computerized operation that is very easy to use, even for beginners. Stitches are selected by pressing the dedicated stitch selection buttons and viewing the LCD display screen. The screen clearly displays the stitch number, selected presser foot, and recommended settings.
Handy error messages also display on the LCD screen if something needs troubleshooting, like forgetting to lower the presser foot! This computerized functionality takes a lot of the guesswork out of sewing.
60 Built-In Stitches for Versatility
This machine comes equipped with 60 built-in stitches including utility stitches, stretch stitches, decorative stitches, heirloom stitches and 7 styles of one-step buttonholes.
The variety of stitches provides versatility for sewing, construction, quilting, crafts, home decor and more. Common stitches like straight, zigzag, blind hem and more are all at your fingertips.
Convenient One-Step Buttonholes
The 7 built-in one-step buttonhole styles allow you to create perfectly sized buttonholes with ease. Simply use the buttonhole foot and the machine will sew the buttonhole in one step for uniform results every time. No more tricky 4-step buttonholes to try and master!
Automatic Needle Threader
The improved automatic needle threader on the CP60X makes threading the needle a breeze. Simply lower the lever and the threader will guide the thread directly through the needle eye. This is a huge time saver and convenience, especially for those with poor vision.
Multiple Included Presser Feet
A total of 7 different presser feet are included with the CP60X:
- Zigzag foot
- Zipper foot
- Buttonhole foot
- Button sewing foot
- Overcast foot
- Blind stitch foot
- Monogramming foot
These specialty presser feet allow you to achieve professional results for techniques like installing zippers, sewing on buttons, creating buttonholes, finishing seam edges, adding decorative stitching, and more.
Durable Metal Interior Frame
The interior framework of the CP60X features a durable metal construction. This gives the machine stability and durability for skip-free sewing, even at high speeds up to 750 stitches per minute.
The metal frame also allows the machine to handle thicker fabrics like denim, canvas and quilting materials. However, extremely heavy-duty materials like leather may be beyond the capabilities of this machine.
Bright LED Sewing Area
An LED light is integrated into the machine to provide illumination right where you need it. The bright light reduces eyestrain while making it easier to see your stitches, especially when dealing with darker fabrics.
Handy Free Arm for Sewing Sleeves and Cuffs
By removing the accessory compartment, the CP60X easily converts into free arm mode. This allows you to conveniently sew tubular areas like pant hems, sleeves, cuffs, and other circular areas.
Additional Convenience Features:
- Top drop-in bobbin for quick bobbin changes
- Variable speed foot controller for precision control
- Automatic bobbin winding system
- Thread cutter on the faceplate for quick trimming
- Large extension table included for expanded sewing area
- Built-in carry handle for portability
As you can see, the Brother CP60X packs an impressive array of features into a very affordable computerized sewing machine. Next let’s take a look at some of the benefits and drawbacks shared by users in real world conditions.
Pros of the Brother CP60X Sewing Machine
Here are some of the biggest pros highlighted by sewists who have used the Brother CP60X:
Extremely User-Friendly for Beginners
The overwhelming consensus from CP60X reviewers is that this machine is very beginner-friendly. The controls are intuitive, LCD screen guides your selections, and included instruction manual provides clear direction.
Many sewists commented that they were able to start using the machine almost immediately with great results, even those who had never sewn before. The CP60X’s simplicity makes the learning curve very short.
Produces Excellent Stitch Quality
Users say the Brother CP60X produces very high quality stitches on a range of fabrics. Stitches come out very evenly, with just the right amount of tension.
The stitches also look great on both the top and bobbin sides of the fabric thanks to the easy-to-use top drop-in bobbin. Whether sewing wovens, stretchy material, lightweight or heavier fabrics, this machine handles them beautifully.
Lightweight Yet Sturdy Construction
Weighing in at just 14 pounds, the CP60X is highly portable and easy to transport. Users love being able to take it along to classes or from room to room. Yet, the interior metal frame still gives it enough stability and durability for regular use.
Quiet Operation
Many reviewers comment on how quietly this machine runs. The motor purrs along with minimal vibrations for smooth and relatively peaceful sewing. This is a perk if you need to sew while others are sleeping or working nearby.
Good Value for the Price
Considering the number of built-in stitches, automatic features like buttonholes and needle threading, and computerized functionality, users feel the CP60X provides excellent value. It has many of the capabilities of more expensive machines at a very attractive price point.
Large Range of Included Accessories
With 7 presser feet and other included accessories like needles, bobbins, screwdrivers and more, the CP60X provides everything you need to get sewing. Owners appreciate not having to purchase these extras separately.
Now that we’ve covered the benefits reported by users, let’s talk about a few potential downsides to be aware of.
Cons of the Brother CP60X Sewing Machine
While the vast majority of feedback on the CP60X is positive, there are a few drawbacks that get mentioned:
LCD Screen Readability Issues
The LCD display screen uses a low contrast combination of light blue background with white lettering. Many users complain this colour scheme makes the selected stitches quite difficult to read, especially in poor lighting. This oversight seems like an easy fix Brother could address.
Limited Thickness Sewing Capability
Due to its lightweight construction, the maximum thickness the CP60X can handle may be up to 6mm. Sewing very thick fabrics like heavy denim or leather on a regular basis is beyond the abilities of this everyday machine. The internal mechanisms are just not designed for extremely heavy fabrics.
Mostly Plastic Construction
With computerized home machines, plastic has largely replaced metal components to save on costs. The CP60X follows this trend with plastic used for the outer casing, bobbin winder, needle thread components and more. Only the internal frame is metal.
While the plastic seems fairly durable, some sewists question whether it will hold up for decades like all-metal vintage machines. Only time will tell how the plastic holds up long-term.
Lack of Speed Control Slider
There is no dedicated speed control slider for limiting the maximum sewing speed. The foot pedal offers some control, but frequent users of slider-based machines miss this feature.
No Start/Stop Button
Without start/stop buttons, the CP60X needs the foot controller for operation. Buttons provide convenience for occasions when controlling speed via foot pedal is difficult.
Now let’s see how the CP60X stacks up against a few other popular Brother sewing machines.
Brother CP60X vs Other Brother Models
How does the CP60X compare to some other Brother sewing machines? Here is a brief overview:
Brother CP60X vs CS5055
The Brother CS5055 is nearly identical to the CP60X in features and functionality. The only notable difference is the CS5055 has a black and silver colored faceplate instead of white and blue. It’s essentially a CP60X in different clothing.
Brother CP60X vs CS7000X
The Brother CS7000X sits above the CP60X in Brother’s line-up with added features like 70 built-in stitches, 10 presser feet included, back-lit LCD screen, hard protective case included, and more programming buttons. However, it comes at a higher price point.
Brother CP60X vs XM2701
The Brother XM2701 is a very popular entry-level manual Brother machine. While much more affordable, it does not offer the automatic needle threading, buttonholes, speed control and other computerized benefits of the CP60X. But it’s a great basic home machine for occasional sewing.
Final Thoughts on the Brother CP60X
So in summary, the Brother CP60X is a very capable computerized sewing machine for the money. It makes an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate sewers thanks to its user-friendly design, great stitch results on everyday fabrics, and wide range of included accessories. More advanced sewers may desire options for handling thicker material or features like an automatic thread cutter. But overall, the CP60X offers impressive value in a lightweight package ideal for most basic sewing needs.