Want to replace your sewing machine and can’t decide between the Brother Innov-is F420 and Brother Innov-is F460? Both are high-end sewing machines from Brother with several innovative features. Yet, there are certain distinctions between the two sewing machines that may favour one over the other for your stitching needs. We’ll analyse and contrast the essential features of both machines in this post to help you make an educated selection.
Differences Innov-is F420 and F460
When comparing the to sewing machines Innov-is F420 and the Innov-is F460 has several extra features, making it a more advanced sewing machine. Below are the primary differences between the two models. For a full list of the included features of both models check out the Comparison Table at the bottom of the post.
- Number of sewing stitches: The Brother F460 has 182 built-in stitches, while the Brother F420 has 140. The higher number of stitches on the F460 offers more versatility and options for creative sewing projects.
- Multi-directional sewing: The Innov-is F460 has the ability to sew in up to four different directions, making it easier to sew in a variety of directions and angles. The Innov-is F420 does not have this feature.
- Automatic thread tension: The Innov-is F460 has automatic thread tension, while the Innov-is F420 requires manual adjustment. Automatic thread tension makes it easier to achieve consistent stitch quality and save time on adjusting thread tension.
- Speed control customised for zig-zag width: The Innov-is F460 has a feature that adjusts the sewing speed based on the width of the zig-zag stitch being used. This ensures consistent stitching and prevents fabric puckering. The Innov-is F420 does not have this feature.
- My Custom Stitch: Both models have this feature, but the Innov-is F460 has additional customisation options. My Custom Stitch allows users to create and save their own stitches for future use.
- Realistic preview of the patterns: The Innov-is F460 has a feature that allows users to preview their stitching patterns in a more realistic way. This can be helpful in planning and visualizing stitching projects. The Innov-is F420 does not have this feature.
Similarities
The Brother Innov-is F420 and F460 are both great sewing machines with many features in common. Both have LCD panels, automatic thread cutters, innovative needle threading systems, and the SFDS (Square Feed Drive System) for smooth, even stitching. In addition, they offer lock stitch buttons, adjustable presser foot pressure, and electronic slide speed control. Furthermore, both machines can combine stitches, repeat single threads, create mirror image designs. For those who prefer free motion embroidery, both machines have an optional free motion foot.
Summary
The Innov-is F460 includes additional sewing stitches, built-in sewing lettering styles, and multi-directional stitching capabilities. It also offers an automated thread tension mechanism, a realistic display of embroidery patterns, and the ability to choose font size and enter several lines of text. It can also stitch up to four sideways because to its adjustable presser foot pressure. Although the Innov-is F420 lacks these functions, it is still a high-quality machine with improved needle threading, an automated thread cutter, an SFDS, and other important features. If your budget allows we would recommend going for the F420 sewing machine.
Comparison Table
The list below provides an overview of each machine’s primary features, making it simple to compare and select which one will best suit your sewing needs. This table emphasises the similarities and differences between these two sewing machines, ranging from screen type and size to the number of built-in stitches and font styles.
| Features | Innov-is F420 | Innov-is F460 |
|---|---|---|
| Type of screen | LCD screen | LCD screen |
| Display size | 3.5“ | 3.5“ |
| Number of sewing stitches * | 140 | 182 |
| Buttonholes | 10 | 10 |
| Built-in lettering styles (sewing) | 5 (capital letters) | 5 |
| Built-in lettering styles (embroidery) | – | – |
| Built-in embroidery patterns | – | – |
| Built-in embroidery frame patterns | – | – |
| Needle threading system | advanced | advanced |
| Automatic thread cutter | ✔ | ✔ |
| Bobbin winder | ✔ | ✔ |
| SFDS (Square Feed Drive System) | ✔ | ✔ |
| Adjustable presser foot pressure | electronic | electronic |
| Lock stitch button | ✔ | ✔ |
| Multi-directional sewing | – | ✔ (up to 4 sideways) |
| Adjustable thread tension | manual | automatic |
| Electronic slide speed control | ✔ | ✔ |
| Combine stitches | ✔ | ✔ |
| Speed control customised for zig-zag width | ✔ | ✔ |
| Repeated single sewing | ✔ | ✔ |
| Automatic reverse / reinforcement stitch | ✔ | ✔ |
| Mirror imaging | ✔ | ✔ |
| My Custom Stitch | ✔ | ✔ |
| Realistic preview of the patterns | – | – |
| Patterns – size change, rotation, mirror, … | – | – |
| Font size selection (L-M-S) | – | – |
| Text editing functions – multiple line text input | – | – |
| Free motion embroidery | free motion foot: optional | free motion foot: optional |
| Knee lift | ✔ | ✔ |
| Multi Function Foot Controller | optional | optional |
| Mechanical dual feed (walking foot) | optional | optional |