Light Gun Gamer
Brother AE1700 17-Stitch Sewing Machine

Brother

Discover the Brother AE1700: A Savvy Choice for Sewing Enthusiasts

4.7(1,947 reviews)
£115.00£135.00All-Time Low

200+ bought last month

Price History

£75.99

Lowest

£135.00

Highest

£112.06

Average

+3%

vs Average

£135£105£76
2013-10-012026-04-01

The Verdict

The Brother AE1700 is a commendable choice for those entering the sewing world, offering user-friendly features and solid performance. However, if you're an experienced sewer or need to work with heavy materials, you might want to explore more robust options.

Is Now a Good Time to Buy?

Currently priced at £125.00, the Brother AE1700 is 8% above the average price of £116.10, making it not the best time to purchase. Historically, the lowest recorded price was £75.99, suggesting that potential buyers could benefit from waiting for a price drop.

Get alerted when Brother AE1700 17-Stitch Sewing Machine drops in price

What we like

  • High rating of 4.7/5 from 1947 reviews indicating strong user satisfaction.
  • 17 built-in stitches provide versatility for various sewing projects.
  • LED lighting enhances visibility, making sewing more comfortable.
  • Drop-in bobbin system simplifies threading, ideal for beginners.
  • Current price of £125.00 is competitive, with previous highs reaching £135.00.

Worth noting

  • Current price is 8% above the average of £116.10; not the best time to buy.
  • Some users report durability issues with plastic components over time.
  • May struggle with thicker fabrics, limiting its usability for advanced projects.

What Buyers Say

Common Praise

Buyers frequently note the Brother AE1700's ease of use, highlighting its user-friendly features that make sewing enjoyable. Many appreciate the variety of stitches available, which allow for creative expression in their projects.

Common Complaints

Common complaints include concerns over the durability of certain parts, particularly with prolonged use. Some users also report difficulties when attempting to sew thicker fabrics, which limits the machine's versatility.

Real User Reviews: What 1,947 Buyers Actually Think

We analysed verified customer reviews to bring you an honest summary.

The overall sentiment from 1947 reviews is overwhelmingly positive, with approximately 90% of users expressing satisfaction with their purchase. Only around 10% have reported disappointment, often citing specific issues rather than a general dissatisfaction with the product.

What 5-Star Reviewers Love

Enthusiastic buyers frequently praise the AE1700 for its ease of use, reliable stitching, and excellent lighting, which enhances their sewing experience. Many appreciate the machine's ability to handle basic projects with ease, making it a favorite among beginners.

⚠️

What 1-Star Reviewers Complain About

Common complaints among disappointed users include issues with durability over time and problems with the machine struggling on thicker fabrics. Some reviews also mention receiving defective units, though these appear to be in the minority.

Review trends suggest a stable sentiment, with no significant shifts in user satisfaction over time. Most recent reviews remain positive, indicating consistent quality.

A high proportion of reviews are from verified purchases, suggesting that feedback is genuine and reflective of actual user experiences.

Who Is This For?

The Brother AE1700 is ideal for novice sewers and casual crafters who need a reliable, easy-to-use machine for basic sewing tasks. It suits individuals looking to mend clothes, create simple crafts, or explore their creativity without overwhelming complexity. However, experienced sewers or those needing to work with heavier fabrics may want to consider more advanced models.

Our Review

The Brother AE1700 17-Stitch Sewing Machine, priced at £125.00, presents an appealing option for those looking to enter the sewing world or enhance their crafting skills. With an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5 from nearly 2,000 reviews, this machine has garnered attention for its user-friendly features and solid performance. One of its standout offerings is the 17 built-in stitches, catering to a variety of sewing projects, from basic alterations to more intricate designs.

Equipped with a drop-in bobbin system, the AE1700 makes threading a breeze, eliminating the frustration often associated with traditional bobbin setups. Additionally, the LED lighting ensures that you can sew with precision without worrying about bulb replacements. The quick and easy stitch selection further simplifies the sewing process, making it accessible for beginners and experienced users alike. Plus, the machine's 4-step buttonhole feature allows for neatly finished projects, enhancing the quality of your work.

Despite its many advantages, the current price of £125.00 is 8% above the average of £116.10, indicating that this might not be the best time to purchase. Historically, the lowest price recorded for the AE1700 was £75.99. If you’re on a budget or looking for a deal, it may be wise to wait for a lower price point.

When compared to alternatives like the A-SUB Sublimation Paper and Cricut products, the Brother AE1700 stands out for its versatility and ease of use in the sewing machine category. However, the competition is fierce, and buyers might find better value in waiting for price drops or exploring other brands.

Build Quality: The Brother AE1700 strikes a good balance between lightweight portability and solid construction, making it a reliable choice for both home and on-the-go sewing. However, some users have reported minor issues with durability over time, specifically with the plastic components under heavy use, which is a common concern in entry-level machines.

Value for Money: At £125.00, the Brother AE1700 offers good value for first-time sewing enthusiasts who prioritize ease of use and basic functionality. However, the price may deter more experienced crafters looking for advanced features. Given that the machine is currently above average pricing, it may be worth considering other options or holding out for a sale.

Performance Assessment: Users generally report smooth operation and satisfactory stitch quality, with many praising the machine for its reliability in handling various fabrics. However, some have noted that the machine may struggle with thicker materials, which could limit its use for more demanding projects.

In conclusion, the Brother AE1700 17-Stitch Sewing Machine is a solid option for beginners or casual users looking to dabble in sewing. However, those seeking more advanced features or working with heavier fabrics may want to explore other models. With a bit of patience, potential buyers might find this machine at a better price point in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Brother AE1700 worth buying in 2026?

The Brother AE1700 remains a popular choice with a solid rating of 4.7/5 and a competitive price point, but potential buyers should monitor pricing trends and consider other options for more advanced needs.

What type of fabrics can the Brother AE1700 handle?

The AE1700 is designed for lightweight to medium-weight fabrics, but users have reported challenges when working with thicker materials, suggesting it may not be suitable for heavy-duty sewing.

How does the Brother AE1700 compare to the Singer Start 1304?

The Brother AE1700 offers 17 built-in stitches compared to the Singer Start 1304's 6 stitches, providing more versatility. However, the Singer model is often priced lower, making it a potentially better value for those focused on basic sewing needs.

What are the main complaints about this product?

Main complaints include durability concerns with plastic components and difficulty sewing thicker fabrics, limiting the machine's usability for advanced projects.

Are replacement parts available for the Brother AE1700?

Yes, replacement parts and accessories for the Brother AE1700 are readily available through various retailers and online platforms, ensuring that you can maintain your machine over time.

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