Head-to-head · Best Sewing Machines

Baby Lock Zest Sewing Machine vs Pfaff Select 4.2

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Baby Lock Zest Sewing Machine comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.5 vs 4.3). The gap is mostly about travelers and beginners seeking portability — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Sewing Machines

Baby Lock Zest Sewing Machine

4.5

$209as of Jul 6

The Baby Lock Zest is praised as an excellent entry-level machine that delivers the build quality and feature set of higher-end models. YouTube reviewer Kelly from ABQ Sewing Studio highlights its ease of use, particularly for beginners and children, noting 15 built-in stitches, a front-load bobbin system, and lightweight design ideal for travel or teaching. While it lacks computerized functionality and only comes with four presser feet, it's seen as a solid value for those seeking a reliable mechanical sewing machine.

Strengths

— Built with quality standards typically found in higher-end machines
— 15 built-in stitches including a four-step buttonhole
— Easy to thread with front load bobbin system

Watch-outs

— Limited to mechanical operation without computerized features
— Only includes four presser feet in the box

$209 · Buy at meissnersewing.com Full review →

Ranked #3 in Best Sewing Machines

Pfaff Select 4.2

4.3

$999as of Jul 6

The Pfaff Select 4.2 is a mechanical sewing machine designed for users who prefer traditional operation but want modern conveniences. Reviewers noted its 40 built-in stitches, dual feed system, and easy threading with a built-in needle threader. One reviewer mentioned it's a good upgrade from older Select models like the 3.0, though it lacks some features of computerized machines. The machine is praised for its spacious bed and adjustable needle positioning, making it suitable for detailed work like zippers and piping. PatternReview users recommended it as a solid mechanical option in the $600-$700 price range.

Strengths

— Built-in needle threader for easy threading
— Dual feed walking foot system (IDT) built-in
— Adjustable stitch width and needle positioning

Watch-outs

— Limited buttonhole variety
— Hard to locate drop feed control

$999 · Buy at singer.com Full review →

How they stack up

Baby Lock Zest Sewing Machine

The Baby Lock Zest is more portable and beginner-friendly than the Singer Heavy Duty 6800C, which is heavier and more robust. However, it lacks the 300+ stitch options of the Singer Heavy Duty 6800C and the advanced features of the Brother CS7000X.

Pfaff Select 4.2

The Pfaff Select 4.2 offers a dual feed system and adjustable needle positioning, which the Brother CS7000X lacks. However, it's more mechanical and less computerized than the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960, and lacks the automatic thread cutter found in the Brother XM2701.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Baby Lock Zest Sewing Machine	Pfaff Select 4.2
Stitch Count	15 built-in	40
Bobbin System	Front load	—
Weight	13 lb	15.4 lb
Included Accessories	4 included	—
Stitch Width	—	Adjustable
Stitch Speed	—	900 stitches/min

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