Brother Embroidery Machine | PR1055X vs PR680W: Full Feature Comparison

So in terms of speed alone, they match. But when you combine that speed with the 10-needle setup of the PR1055X, you get better efficiency, especially on large or multi-color projects. The PR680W still handles medium-sized tasks quickly and reliably.

Built-in Patterns

- PR680W has around 763 built-in embroidery designs. 

- PR1055X has around 944 built-in designs. 

If you want variety without uploading external designs, PR1055X gives more freedom. More built-in designs means more ready to use patterns for logos, monograms, or decorative work. PR680W still offers a decent selection, especially if your work doesn’t require a huge variety.

Embroidery Area

- PR680W: Embroidery area of 300 × 200 mm (about 12 × 8) 

- PR1055X: Embroidery area of 360 × 200 mm (about 14 × 8) 

If you have decided to work on larger designs or fabrics like jackets back,large patches, decorative cushions or more detailed logo work, the PR1055X’s larger area gives you more flexibility. For standard shirts, hats, small logos and everyday projects, the PR680W’s area is sufficient and easy to manage.

Positioning Functions

- PR680W: Uses a crosshair LED pointer/laser for needle positioning. 

- PR1055X: Uses a built-in camera positioning sensor for precise placement. 

The camera system on PR1055X helps position designs accurately, which is a big plus when you work on uneven surfaces (like caps, bags, sleeves) or need exact placement. 

PR680W’s laser pointer is simpler but reliable, good for everyday flat-surface embroidery or standard garments.

Lighting

- PR680W: Built-in LED lighting for the workspace. 

- PR1055X: Uses 5 LEDs for brighter, more even lighting. 

Better lighting helps when you work on detailed designs or in conditions where ambient light is poor. The PR1055X’s enhanced lighting makes it easier to check details and thread changes, a subtle advantage but one that affects comfort and precision.

Warranty

Warranty terms differ slightly but generally:

Both machines are covered by the manufacturer's warranty. 

For commercial use or small business use, check local warranty and service terms, especially if you rely on the machine for client orders.

Final Recommendations

Here’s a quick breakdown. Which features stand out for each machine:

PR1055X (10-needle)

- 10 needles for multi-color and complex designs.

- Larger embroidery area (360 × 200 mm) for bigger pieces.

- Built-in camera positioning for better accuracy.

- More built-in designs give greater variety.

- 5-LED lighting for a clearer workspace.

- High speed with efficiency for larger projects.

PR680W (6-needle)

- Easier to manage with fewer needles.

- Adequate embroidery area (300 × 200 mm) for small to medium designs.

- Reliable crosshair laser positioning, simple and effective.

- Decent built-in design library for standard work.

- Good speed for regular embroidery tasks. 

- Simpler setup, suitable for smaller operations or hobby use.

Difference Between PR1055X vs PR680W

In short, PR680W is good for simpler, smaller or medium-scale embroidery. 

PR1055X is designed for those who need more flexibility, a larger work area and the ability to take on bigger or more complex projects.

Which Brother Machine is Better for Beginners and Professionals?

For Beginners / Small Business / Hobbyists

The PR680W is the smarter choice. Its simpler needle setup, reliable basic features and more manageable size make it easier to start with. If you plan to do standard embroidery, shirts, small logos, hats or small batch orders, you’ll likely find it more than enough.

For Professionals / Growing Business / High Volume

The PR1055X stands out. Its 10-needle system, larger hoop, advanced positioning and extra design capacity let you handle larger pieces, more complex patterns and higher workload. It gives room to grow: more clients, more creative designs and more flexibility overall.

If your plan includes heavy use, custom apparel, large designs (jackets, bags, patches), or scaling operations, PR1055X is built to support that.

Summary

Both PR680W and PR1055X are high quality embroidery machines from Brother. The right choice depends on what you plan to do:

Choose PR680W if you want simplicity, or doing on small to medium projects or if you are a beginner.

Choose PR680W if you want to grow, handle bigger or more complicated projects or give your business room to scale.