Brother CS6000i Vs Brother XL2600I Comparison In Detail

There are two common factors that keep Brother CS6000i and XL2600I together, quality and sales volume. Among beginners sewing machines in U.S, not many other sewing machines come even close to the sales volume of Brother CS6000i and XL2600I. Both these machines have been the best sellers ever since they were released, so there has to be something good about these machines for sure. Sometimes you can make out the quality of a machine from the sales volume, because demand comes from quality and mouth to mouth publicity. Some may argue that it can be due to promotions, yes you can promote products in the beginning , but not for ever. To be on the top even 7 years after release, is strictly because of the quality.

Brother CS6000i Vs Brother XL2600I - Major Feature Differences

First, we will go through the differences, then we will have a look at all common features.

Basic Functioning 

Both these sewing machines might look similar in design (in fact all beginners sewing machines from Brother look pretty similar) but they differ a lot in features. CS6000i is a computerized sewing machine, XL2600I on the other hand is a mechanical sewing machine. CS6000i being a computerized sewing machine, you can sew without the foot pedal (much like the auto pilot feature on the flight). Even though you are not using the foot pedal, you are still in control of the sewing speed as there are 3 speed settings LOW, MEDIUM and HIGH on the speed control slider. You can also use the foot pedal if you are not comfortable with the automatic sewing feature. XL2600I on the other hand, works on the good old principle of mechanical sewing machines ie. sewing with the foot pedal.

LCD Screen 

CS6000i, like all computerized sewing machines, has an LCD screen to view stitch selection, stitch length and width adjustments. Stitch selection on XL2600I is done by turning the dial.

Built-in Stitches 

Understandably CS6000i comes with more built-in stitches, 60 of them including 7 one-step buttonholes. Whereas XL2600I has 25 built-in stitches which also includes a one-step buttonhole.

Sewing Light 

Brother CS6000i has dual LED that provides decent lighting. XL2600I comes with a single bulb.

Thread Cutter 

Brother CS6000i features a manual thread cutter which is absent on XL2600I. You need scissors to cut the thread if you are using XL2600I.

Motor 

Brother CS6000i has a slightly more powerful motor. It is not a huge difference. Mathematically, CS6000i's motor is 6% more powerful. It is not huge, so you won't feel it.

Stitch Width & Length 

CS6000i will be a better option for those who want to experiment with stitch width and length. The maximum stitch width and length on CS6000i is 7mm and 5mm respectively. On the other hand, XL2600I has a maximum stitch width and length of 4mm and 5mm respectively.

Quilting Table 

You will get a quilting table along with CS6000i as a bonus accessory. The table is really useful while working on large projects.

Machine Weight 

Understandably CS6000i is the heavier one. But the difference is only 2 lbs.

Editor comment

To be honest, we are not doing any justice to XL2600I by comparing it with CS6000i (as they belong to two different categories). Both are wonderful performers in their respective category. The choice strictly depends on your budget and the features you need. Both the machines are right on top in quality. If you are really serious about sewing and you are a fast learner, you need CS6000i as it offers more in terms of creativity. If you are worried about the budget, you can go with XL2600I and still be happy with a wonderful mechanical sewing machine.