Brother CS6000i Review

The Brother CS6000i delivered an average to above-average score in every single metric that we analyzed, performing exceptionally well in ease of use and in lighting.

Performance Comparison

Sewing

The CS6000i scored well for stitching quality, earning an above-average score in our tests in this crucial metric. This is obviously a fundamental rating category, as sewing is why you would purchase one of these machines. We compared the sewing performance by analzying a few different stitches: straight, zigzag, blind hem, scallop, and attaching a zipper.

While this model consistently scored above average at the zigzag, blind hem, and straight stitches, it struggled a bit with zippers and scallop stitches. All the other stitches had very nice evenness and consistency, with the correct amount of tension. In our previous testing, we found that the CS6000i tended to have a much tighter long, straight stitch than other models, to the point where it was undesirable and caused the fabric to bunch up. Apparently, Brother cleaned that problem up, and the straight stitches we sewed on our different types of fabrics were clean and even.

We also ran into some difficulties when using the zipper-specific presser foot to attach a zipper, as the presser foot got hung up on the zipper stop, causing some uneven stitching in that area.

Ease of Use

The Brother CS6000i gave a great showing when we looked at ease of use. We look for machines with clear directions and other features that make them easier to use — things like a great work light or labeling that adds to overall convenience.

The CS6000i has straightforward and easy-to-understand labels printed on the machine, giving excellent directions on how to thread the machine and install and wind the bobbin. One feature that we particularly found useful, especially for novice users, is the recommendation that appears on the display for which presser foot to use when a stitch is selected. And the instruction manual — often an overlooked feature — is clean, clear, and very easy to use. The lighting is also excellent — it has little-to-no shadows and covers a very large area so that it is easy to see everything you are working on.

We found some drawbacks, though: it is necessary to consult the manual if there is an error since the screen only displays an error code with no description of the problem. The computer screen also lacks a backlight which would help with trying to see the printing there. Lacking an automatic thread cutter, the CS6000i does have a manual cutter tucked away on the side of the machine that is average, although you can cut from either side as long as you are cutting down. It also has an automatic needle stop, which means that you don't have to stop sewing, manually raise the needle to the top, and then remove your fabric.

Buttonholes

We looked at how adept each machine is at creating a buttonhole, its quality, and how easy it is to create the buttonhole in the desired location. The CS6000i has a 1-step buttonhole, meaning that the entire process is automatic once set up correctly. The size of the buttonhole is determined by inserting the button into the buttonhole presser foot, and then it's ready to go. The finished result had even and consistent stitches, and we found that they were not prone to unraveling.

Value

This machine gives a solid performance for its price and is a very good value. Though it is a great beginner sewing machine at a very affordable price, an experienced seamstress or tailor may want something with more options.

Conclusion