Are you looking for a handheld sewing machine the perfect size to throw into your purse or luggage? I have researched several brands and have compiled this list of the 10 best handheld sewing machines.
Why Choose A Handheld Sewing Machine?
Handheld sewing machines have a compact design so they do not take up a lot of room to store. In addition, they are super handy for small projects and quick repairs because they take little set up. They can be stored in your purse and taken on trips because a handheld machine is portable. The small machine is a great addition to a RV when traveling for long periods of time. You do not have to be well versed in sewing to use a handheld sewing machine, though some brands are more easy to use than others.
Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
Best Priced Handheld Sewing Machines
This is a list of the lower priced handheld sewing machines on the market. Each of these models look more like a stapler and are completely portable.
SiddenGold Handheld Sewing Machine

With higher ratings than many of the other handheld sewing machine we reviewed, the SiddenGold is priced at just over $10. Though extremely affordable, this small machine is a good option with a simple design. It boasts high quality, low noise, and no interference.
Rated at over 4 stars, reviewers stated the machine had ease of use.
Singer Stitch Sew Quick

Powered with a power cord or batteries, the machine comes along with bobbins, needles, needle threader, thread spindle, and an easy-to-understand instruction manual. This handheld sewing machine sews at higher speeds with its powerful motor and is designed for quick repairs and fast mending assignments. This is a useful tool for small repairs.
Of the handheld models, this one has the most positive reviews. Reviewers state it is easy to use and can hem jeans and pants in addition to thin fabric. It does take practice to correctly feed the fabric, however reviewers recommend drawing lines and using pins to get a straight stitch.
The price range for this machine is between $15 and $20.
As Seen On Tv Handy Stitch Handheld Sewing Machine

Like every other handheld sewing machine, the Handy Stitch is extremely lightweight and portable. It cannot handle a lot of pressure by the user. Additionally reviewers state it has a very loud, irritating sound when in use. It does make a decent stitch but some reviewers stated the stitch tends to come out which makes it very difficult to complete a sewing project.
This unit does not come with an electric power source and runs on 4 AA batteries.
The machine can handle thick fabric such as denim but also can repair delicate fabric such as silk.
Priced at $17, this machine is affordable.
Handy Stitch Cengoy Portable Handheld Sewing Machine

This handheld sewing machine is lightweight, portable, and comes with a variety of accessories. It is battery operated and you can use an AC adapter, however it does not come with either.
Some of the reviews state:
There are very few instructions which make using the machine difficult. You will need to watch YouTube to learn how to use it. The stitches do not stay and parts break almost immediately.
The price point for this handheld machine is less than $10 which makes it the best choice for the cheapest machine on this list.
PiAEK Handheld Sewing Machine

Priced at $20, this is the more expensive handheld, stapler like, light weight handheld sewing machine. The small size is a good choice for emergency repairs. It can make an ideal gift however it should be noted neither an AC adapter or batteries come with the unit.
Mini or Small Portable Sewing Machines
The following handheld sewing machines are a great choice as they mimic a traditional sewing machine. A bit bigger than their counterparts in the market and more tabletop than handheld, these combine ease of use with functionality.
HODLEX Portable Sewing Machine

One of the higher rated portable machines, the Hodlex has a lot of features and is perfect for beginner seamstresses. Much smaller than a full-size sewing machine, this unit is a compact size for easy storage. In addition to the power adapter power source, there is also 4 dry batteries for wireless charging. There are 12 stitching patterns which can be changed by turning a dial as well as an LED light in order to see in any light. The stitching is controlled with an attached foot pedal.
The price of this unit is right at around $60, however it has a 4 star rating which exceeds the other units we reviewed.
Magicfly Mini Sewing Machine with Extension Table

The price point for this mini sewing machine definitely makes my list of the best small sewing machines on the market. Priced at under $40, this machine easily turns on with the foot pedal and/or power button. It is powered by an included AC/DC power supply or batteries. Instead of single thread design, this machine has double stitching which makes the stitch stronger and comes with an extensive accessory kit. The best thing, in my opinion, is the extension table which makes the sewing machine more stable and can handle a large project.
RECOMMENDED ARTICLE: Best Bourbons Under $50
Singer Stitch Quick 2

The Singer Stitch Quick operates on 4AA batteries or with an AC/DC power cord (sold separately). For best results when keeping stored in your car or other place for extended periods, purchase an adapter so you know your machine will always be ready to go. It comes with 3 threaded bobbins, 1 needle threader, 3 machine needles and 1 thread spindle.
Some of the negative reviews stated the machine was difficult to control especially if you are used to a foot pedal. The stitches do not catch and hold and the machine jams.
Lycheers Mini 2 in 1

It should be noted this machine is readily available for purchase in Canada and other countries, however there is limited availability in the United States.
This machine offers the best of both worlds by offering you the choice of handheld or desktop operation. With the same portability and ease of use found with other machines, this machine has two stitching speeds. The Lycheers Mini uses either 4 AA batteries or the AC adapter and this model includes it. For crafts and repairs, use it on a desk for two-hand operation. For repairs on the fly, use as a traditional handheld machine.
Varmax Mini Sewing Machine Electrical

The Varmax is less a handheld machine but more a traditional sewing machine. This machine needs to be plugged in, has a foot pedal, bobbins, and a needle threader. It also has an extension table. This is definitely one of the more powerful sewing machines in this list because it brags it can sew through four layers of denim.
The reviews for this machine are mixed. Repairing it is basically impossible, it jams regularly, and drops stitching. When asking a professional seamstress if this is a machine they would choose, the answer would be no. Priced at only $53, you may wish to choose it as a first sewing machine or one to do minor repairs because it does come with a lot of accessories and does provide power needed for some larger projects.
In summary
Are you looking for the best sewing machine for the money? Look no further. This list of the best handheld sewing machines with ratings and pricing will provide you the research you need in order to make an informed decision when making your purchase.
About the Author:

Hi! I’m Chris. I’m a mother, wife, college professor by trade and micro-influencer by hobby. I am a bargain hunter, jack of all trades, and master of chaos.
Thank you for reading my random thoughts on travel, my stories of life as an under appreciated mother of a teenager, and my easy recipes that have won no awards but instead my family’s love and adoration (which is WAY better, right?).
