Head-to-head · Best Sewing Machines

Brother CS5055 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

Pfaff Select 4.2 comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.8 vs 4.3). The gap is mostly about traditional sewists wanting modern conveniences — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #5 in Best Sewing Machines

Brother CS5055

3.8

$134as of Jul 6

The Brother CS5055 is praised as an excellent entry-level sewing machine that's beginner-friendly and affordable, with clear stitch selection and helpful features like automatic needle threading. TechGearLab awarded it a Best Buy rating, noting its solid performance on most fabrics and good value for money. However, reviewers noted issues with tension consistency and the lack of a needle up/down button. YouTube reviewer Alexa recommends it for those new to sewing or upgrading from basic machines, highlighting its lightweight design and included accessories. It's best suited for beginners but may not meet advanced users' needs.

Strengths

— Top-loading bobbin allows visibility of thread level and easy loading
— Automatic needle-threader saves time and effort for beginners
— Includes 60 built-in stitches with 7 buttonhole stitches and multiple presser feet

Watch-outs

— Lacks needle up/down button for manual control
— Presser foot lock can be problematic, especially with zippers
— Experiences inconsistent tension issues with many stitches on various fabrics

$134 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #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

Brother CS5055

The Brother CS5055 is more affordable than the Brother CS7000X, which offers more stitches and buttonhole choices. However, it lacks the automatic needle threader found in the Brother XM2701 and has inconsistent tension issues compared to the Brother CP100X.

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	Brother CS5055	Pfaff Select 4.2
Stitch Count	60 built-in	40
Stitch Width	7mm	Adjustable
Bobbin System	Jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin	—
Stitch Speed	750 stitches per minute	900 stitches/min
Weight	23.1 lb	15.4 lb
Dimensions	7"D x 17"W x 12"H	—
Included Accessories	7	—

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