Bernina 570 QE review
VerdictSpecs checked against Bernina data · Checked Sep 2026
8.3/108.3
out of 10
The 570 QE is a dealer only computerized machine whose quilting case rests on BSR stitch regulation, dual feed and a 9 mm stitch width in a domestic 8.5 in throat. At its MSRP it costs about what an entry frame longarm does, so the decision is versatility versus throat.
Who it's for
A quilter who also sews garments or decorative work, wants regulated free motion on a domestic, and values dealer classes and a 20 yr mechanical warranty.
Skip it if
You mainly want to quilt large tops (a 15 in frame machine costs the same), you want published pricing without a dealer visit, or you do not need 1,450 stitches.
Price band$3,000 and up
$$$$$ 3k+Computerized
Find a Bernina dealerBernina publishes dealer pricing only. Ask a dealer for today's price.
Real cost to get sewing
Machine $$$$$ 3k+BSR foot: Optional accessory per Bernina; price not published on pages found. Confirm inclusion in the dealer bundleEmbroidery module: 570 QE E configuration; older generation pricing showed $5,599 with module vs $4,399 withoutExtension table: Not listed as included on pages found; ask the dealerBobbins: Bernina jumbo bobbin, proprietary; buy from a dealer
Specs
Research pass 2026-09-29 · manufacturer page check pendingSource: sewingmachinesplus.com · meissnersewing.com · quiltingboard.com · bernina.com · smarterfabric.com · sewingmachineshop.com. Bracketed cells are values the manufacturer does not publish; we never fill a spec we can't source.
Where sources disagree
- Generation: the pre 2017 570 QE (bernina.com "before 2017" page) lists 5.5 mm stitch width, 190 mm (7.5 in) freearm and 900 spm. The current 570 QE lists 9 mm width, 8.5 in right of needle and 1,000 spm. Catalog will use the current generation and note the older figures because used listings carry them.
- Stitch count: 1,450 total including alphabets (Sewing Machines Plus) vs "up to 642 utility and decorative stitches" (Village Sewing) vs 240 built in stitch patterns (SmarterFabric). These count different things (with or without alphabets, or an older generation). Catalog will use 1,450 including alphabets and cite it.
- Price: $5,499 MSRP (universityofsewing.com) vs $4,399 with $5,599 including embroidery module (Robb Report launch coverage, older generation) vs about $4,500 (owner forum). Some dealers list a "w/o BSR" version. Catalog will show $5,499 MSRP as [verify] and state that Bernina pricing is dealer only.
- BSR: bernina.com says BSR functionality is integrated and the BSR is an optional accessory; several dealer bundles include the BSR foot and others are marked without it. Catalog will list the BSR foot as configuration dependent.
Manufacturer claims we quote but do not assert (3)
- "The versatile one with the wide range of functions" (manufacturer tagline, bernina.com)
- "handles big quilts with ease" (manufacturer claim, shop.berninausa.com)
- "Swiss precision" appears across dealer copy (dealer claim)
Size and space
Throat space, drawn to scaleThroat space is the distance from the needle to the machine body: how much rolled quilt fits through.
Weight27 lbHeavy enough that it should live on the table, not in a cupboard.
Table footprint[verify]Add room on the left for the fabric to spill.
Strengths
BSR stitch regulation for free motion on a domestic machine
Bernina Dual Feed and 9 mm stitch width with 1,450 stitches including alphabets
20 yr mechanical warranty and dealer new owner training
Weaknesses
Dealer only pricing; MSRP figures vary from $4,399 (older generation) to $5,499 and the BSR foot is not always included
8.5 in throat is domestic class; the money buys a 15 in frame longarm elsewhere
Specs online mix two generations, so used and new listings are easy to confuse
Check before you buy
3 checks01
Confirm which generation you are quotedCurrent: 9 mm width, 1,000 spm, 8.5 in right of needle. Pre 2017: 5.5 mm, 900 spm, 7.5 in. Used listings often omit the year.
02
Ask whether the BSR foot is in the boxBernina says BSR functionality is integrated and the foot is optional. Dealer bundles differ; some listings say without BSR.
03
Get the embroidery module price separatelyThe 570 QE E adds the module. Launch coverage put the difference near $1,200; confirm current dealer pricing.
Owner and buyer signals
Paraphrased, attributed. We did not operate this machine.mixed
Owners praise the built in dual feed and knee lift, but one early production unit jammed and bird nested in the bobbin area until a software update fixed a tension engagement fault.quiltingboard.com
positive
Forum members put a fair 570 price around $4,500 and recommend the dealer new owner classes as part of the value.quiltingboard.com
Questions people ask
How fast is the Bernina 570 QE?
Bernina publishes a top speed of 1,000 stitches per minute. That is the spec, not a promise of finished quality at that speed; heavy layers want a slower setting.
What stitches does the 570 QE have?
Utility, decorative, quilting and alphabet stitches; 16 buttonholes including eyelet.
How much throat space does the 570 QE have?
8.5 in from the needle to the body. About 6 in is a typical beginner machine; 16 in and up is mid-arm and long-arm territory.
What is the 570 QE warranty?
Bernina publishes: 20 yr mechanical parts, 5 yr printed circuit boards, 2 yr electrical parts. Warranty service runs through authorized dealers, so confirm the seller's status before you buy.
Who should skip the 570 QE?
You mainly want to quilt large tops (a 15 in frame machine costs the same), you want published pricing without a dealer visit, or you do not need 1,450 stitches.
