Best Sewing Machine Needles of 2026

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 25, 2026

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Sewing machine needles are an essential tool for any sewing project. These small, pointed tools come in a variety of sizes and types to suit different fabrics and thread types. Universal needles are the most common type and can be used for a wide range of fabrics, while denim needles are designed for heavier materials like denim and canvas. Microtex needles are ideal for delicate fabrics like silk and chiffon, while ballpoint needles are perfect for knit fabrics. It's important to choose the right needle for the job to ensure a smooth and professional-looking stitch.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

SINGER Universal Heavy Duty Sewing Machine Needles Cover #TOP 1
SINGER Universal Heavy Duty Sewing Machine Needles
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles Cover #TOP 2
Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles - Assorted Sizes Cover #TOP 3
Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles - Assorted Sizes
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Sewing Machine Needles

#TOP 1

SINGER Universal Heavy Duty Sewing Machine Needles

04801
multi-colored
5-Count
SINGER Universal Heavy Duty Sewing Machine Needles Cover
Singer 04801 Universal Heavy Duty Sewing Machine Needles, 5-Count

SINGER Universal Heavy Duty Sewing Machine Needles are a set of 5 heavy duty machine needles in assorted sizes. These needles are compatible with all quality sewing machines, including SINGER, Brother, and Kenmore brands. The needles are color-coded and come in a carrying case with sizes marked over needle slots. They are perfect for standard sewing projects on heavy fabrics such as denim, corduroy or leather.

What We Like
Heavy-duty sewing capability
Works with thick fabrics
Universal machine compatibility
Good variety and thickness
Reliable and durable
What We Don't Like
Best for specific heavy tasks
#TOP 2

Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles

1835-2
2 Cards
Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles Cover
20 Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles - Assorted Sizes - 2 Cards

This pack of 20 Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles is a great general purpose needle for all household sewing machine brands. It includes two cards of assorted needles (130/705 H) in sizes 70/10, 80/12, 90/14 and 100/16, featuring a slightly rounded point for both wovens and knits.

What We Like
High needle durability
Excellent brand reputation
Works with multiple machines
Variety of needle sizes
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Hard to thread
Don't last as long
#TOP 3

Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles - Assorted Sizes

4337008845
White
Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles - Assorted Sizes Cover
50 Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles - Assorted Sizes - Box of 5 Cards

These needles fit all household sewing machines and come in 50 assorted sizes, with 5 cards of 10 needles each. The slightly rounded point can be used for numerous types of fabrics including wovens and knits, making it a great general purpose needle.

What We Like
Wide variety of sizes
Affordable pricing
Long-lasting durability
Works with many machines
Smoother sewing experience
What We Don't Like
Assorted sizes not preferred
#TOP 4

SCHMETZ Universal Household Sewing Machine Needles

1834
2 Cards
SCHMETZ Universal Household Sewing Machine Needles Cover
SCHMETZ Universal (130/705 H) Household Sewing Machine Needles - Size 90/14-2 Cards - 20 Needles

SCHMETZ Universal Household Sewing Machine Needles are designed for a variety of fabrics and sewing machines. They are manufactured by SCHMETZ and come in a pack of 20 needles, size 90/14, which is perfect for medium-weight fabrics. These needles are carded for easy storage and identification.

What We Like
Sharp and durable needles
Affordable pricing
Long-lasting performance
Works with multiple machines
Good for various fabrics
What We Don't Like
Flat shank not for industrial machines
Occasional order quantity issue
#TOP 5

SINGER Universal 2020 Sewing Machine Needles

2020 Size 90/14
SINGER Universal 2020 Sewing Machine Needles Cover
Singer 10-Pack Universal 2020 Sewing Machine Needles, Size 90/14

SINGER Universal 2020 Sewing Machine Needles are designed for sewing medium weight woven fabrics. This 10-pack of genuine Singer needles is size 90/14, perfect for medium-weight knits and synthetics. Compatible with many domestic sewing machines, these needles are sure to help your machine perform to its fullest potential.

What We Like
Durable and long-lasting
Fits most sewing machines
Works with various fabrics
Easy to replace and use
Multiple needle sizes included
What We Don't Like
Occasional needle breakage
Slightly higher price
#TOP 6

SCHMETZ Universal 130/705 H Sewing Needles 10-Pack

1789C
4-70, 2-80, 2-90
SCHMETZ Universal 130/705 H Sewing Needles 10-Pack Cover
SCHMETZ Universal (130/705 H) Household Sewing Machine Needles - Carded - Assortment - 10 Pack

The SCHMETZ Universal Needles are designed to fit most household sewing machines, making them a versatile choice for your sewing projects. These needles come in a convenient 10-pack, so you’ll always have spares on hand when you need them. Made by SCHMETZ, a trusted brand in sewing supplies, these needles ensure reliable performance. They are carded for easy storage and organization, helping you keep your sewing space neat. Whether you’re working on different fabrics or everyday sewing tasks, the SCHMETZ Universal Needles offer the convenience and quality you need.

What We Like
Durable quality
Trusted brand
Fits multiple machines
Variety pack options
Sturdy storage cases
What We Don't Like
Packing could be improved
#TOP 7

Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles

1833
white|blue
2 Cards
Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles Cover
Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles - Size 80/12-2 Cards - 20 Needles

Schmetz Universal Sewing Machine Needles are compatible with all "household" sewing machines, including Baby Lock, Bernina, Brother, Elna, Janome, Kenmore, Necchi, Pfaff, Simplicity, Singer, Viking, and White. This package includes 20 needles, two cards of 10 needles each, with a slightly rounded point. These needles are great for numerous wovens and knits, making them a great general purpose needle.

What We Like
Good quality steel
Easy to use
Affordable price
Suitable for quilting
Convenient variety pack
#TOP 8

Euro-Notions Universal Machine Needles

PRY-1789
Multicolor
1 Pack
Euro-Notions Universal Machine Needles Cover
Euro-Notions Universal Machine Needles

Euro-Notions Universal Machine Needles are made in the United States and come in a package with a length of 0.508 centimeters, height of 9.144 centimeters, and width of 5.588 centimeters. These needles are designed for sewing machines.

What We Like
Consistent quality control
Works with various machines
Good value multi-size pack
Reliable brand reputation
Smooth sewing, no snags
What We Don't Like
Country of origin may vary
#TOP 9

Kidoom Sewing Machine Needles

HAX1
Silver
Kidoom Sewing Machine Needles Cover
Sewing Machine Needles, 50 PCS Universal Sewing Machine Needle, Compatible with Singer, Brother, Janome, Varmax, Sizes HAX1 65/9, 75/11, 90/14, 100/16, 110/18 (50 PCS)

The Kidoom Sewing Machine Needles is a value pack of 50 needles in five sizes: 65/9, 75/11, 90/14, 100/16, 110/18, plus 5 storage tubes and 3 bobbins. Made of high-strength steel, these needles are sharp, smooth, sturdy, and durable. Compatible with most household sewing machines, they are perfect for thin to thick fabrics, making them an ideal gift for sewers of all levels. 100% money back guarantee.

What We Like
Variety of needle sizes
Affordable price
Fits most sewing machines
Convenient storage tubes
Works on various fabrics
What We Don't Like
Minor thread fraying
Self-assembly required

Schmetz Microtex Sharp Sewing Machine Needles

SG_B01EWNU32U_US
Silver
Schmetz Microtex Sharp Sewing Machine Needles Cover
SCHMETZ Microtex Sharp Sewing Machine Needles - Quilting & Topstitching Supplies, Size 80/12, 5-Needle Card, Pack of 5

These sewing machine needles come in a set of 25, with a size of 80/12, perfect for lightweight fabrics. They have a very slim needle with a thin shaft that results in very straight stitches. They are compatible with a wide range of household sewing machine models from various brands.

What We Like
Sharp needle point
Neat, precise stitching
Less lint production
Fits most machines
Good value price
What We Don't Like
Packaging feedback limited
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know which sewing machine needle to use?

Choosing the right sewing machine needle depends on the fabric and thread you're using. As a general rule, use smaller needle sizes for lighter fabrics and larger needle sizes for heavier fabrics. The needle package usually indicates the recommended sizes. Additionally, the type of needle, such as ballpoint, embroidery, jeans, leather, microtex, quilting, stretch, or topstitch, should be selected based on the specific sewing project requirements.

2. What are the different types of sewing needles?

There are several types of sewing machine needles available, including ballpoint, embroidery, jeans, leather, microtex, quilting, stretch, and topstitch needles. These needles are designed for different fabrics and purposes. For example, ballpoint needles are suitable for knits, while quilting needles are ideal for stitching through thick layers. Choosing the right type of needle enhances the quality of your sewing project.

3. Do sewing machine needles fit all machines?

Yes, sewing machine needles for domestic machines generally fit all models. It's important to change the needle regularly and opt for high-quality needles to achieve good results. Ensure that the flat side of the needle faces the back on machines made after 1960.

4. What are 90/14 needles used for?

90/14 needles, specifically quilting needles, are designed with a sharp, tapered point to stitch through thick layers and intersecting seams. They are suitable for piecing quilts and machine quilting the layers together.

5. What are 80/12 needles for?

80/12 needles are appropriate for sewing lightweight fabrics such as lawn, faille, and georgette. These needles work well with lightweight, flowy fabrics used for dresses and blouses. When starting to sew medium-weight fabrics like poplin, broadcloth, and muslin, consider using 90/14 needles, especially for printed quilting cotton.

6. What does 70/10 mean on a sewing machine needle?

70/10 needles are specifically designed for sewing fine, lightweight fabrics like chiffon, satin, and organza. These needles are suitable for formal wear. On the other hand, 80/12 needles are appropriate for sewing lightweight fabrics like lawn, faille, and georgette, which are often used for flowy dresses and blouses.

7. What is the difference between needle 80/12 and 90/14?

The difference lies in the fabrics they are suitable for. 80/12 needles work well with lightweight fabrics like lawn, faille, and georgette, which are commonly used for dresses and blouses. On the other hand, 90/14 needles are better for medium-weight fabrics like poplin, broadcloth, and muslin, particularly for printed quilting cotton.

8. What is the difference between 100/16 and 90/14 needles?

100/16 needles are often used for medium to heavier fabrics such as jeans and coat fabrics. On the other hand, 90/14 needles are suitable for medium-weight fabrics like broadcloth or corduroy. Size 11 needles are generally recommended for cotton fabrics. It's best to consult your sewing machine manual to determine which needle sizes are compatible with your specific machine.

Editor's Notes

During our sewing machine needle research, we found 24 sewing machine needle products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 143,907 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sewing machine needles list. We found that most customers choose sewing machine needles with an average price of $6.77.

The sewing machine needles are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sewing machine needles, including SINGER, SCHMETZ, kidoom. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 682 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.

Sewing Machine Needles Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand SINGER SCHMETZ SCHMETZ SCHMETZ SINGER SCHMETZ SCHMETZ SCHMETZ kidoom SCHMETZ
Compatible Devices Domestic Sewing Machine Domestic Sewing Machine Domestic Sewing Machine Domestic Sewing Machines Domestic Sewing Machine Domestic Sewing Machine MostDomesticSewingMachines Domestic Sewing Machine Domestic Sewing Machine Domestic Sewing Machines
Point Type Regular Point Slightly Rounded Point Ball Point slightly rounded point Regular Point slightly rounded point Slightly Rounded Point Universal Regular Point Slim Acute Point
Item Weight 0.2 ounces 0.634 ounces 2.08 ounces 0.634 ounces 0.705 ounces 0.32 ounces 0.634 ounces 0.01 ounces 2.08 ounces 0.634 ounces
Item Length 4.52 Inches - 80 Millimeters - - 7.05 Millimeters 75 Millimeters 5.59 Centimeters 1.54 Inches -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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