Baby Lock Altair 2 vs Brother Stellaire XJ1
Both stitch the same 9.5 × 14 in field.
Which should you buy?
Choose the Altair 2 (BLTA2) if you do a lot of lettering (30 built-in fonts vs 24); or if you want a model that is still sold new, with current support.
There is little reason to pick the XJ1 unless you find it clearly cheaper, for example used or refurbished.
Altair 2 (BLTA2) vs XJ1: specs side by side
| Spec | Baby Lock Altair 2 | Brother Stellaire XJ1 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Sewing and embroidery | Sewing and embroidery |
| Embroidery field | 9.5 × 14 in (240 × 360 mm) | 9.5 × 14 in (240 × 360 mm) |
| Hoops included | 9.5 × 14 in (240 × 360 mm); 9.5 × 9.5 in (240 × 240 mm); 5 × 7 in (130 × 180 mm); 4 × 4 in (100 × 100 mm) | 9.5 × 14 in (240 × 360 mm); 9.5 × 9.5 in (240 × 240 mm); 5 × 7 in (130 × 180 mm); 4 × 4 in (100 × 100 mm) |
| File formats | .PES, .PHC, .PEC, .DST | .PES, .PHC, .PHX, .DST, .PEN |
| Design transfer | USB stick or Wi-Fi | USB stick or Wi-Fi |
| Built-in designs | — | 727 |
| Lettering fonts | 30 | 24 |
| Sewing stitches | 774 | 727 |
| Cap frame | No | No |
| Screen | 10.1 in touch | 10.1 in touch |
| Released | — | 2019 |
| Status | Sold new | Discontinued |
| Typical price | $10,284–$10,999 | — |
Bold marks the higher number where more is better. Prices are typical new ranges, not live prices.
Embroidery field: Altair 2 (BLTA2) vs XJ1
The field is the biggest design each machine can stitch in one hooping. Bigger designs have to be split into parts. Check a design size.
What they have in common
- Both have the same 9.5 × 14 in embroidery field.
Altair 2 (BLTA2)
A fit for experienced home embroiderers and quilters who want one machine for big designs and full-size sewing, and who will use the placement and design tools. Skip it if you want a low price, hats, or fast color changes on a multi-needle machine.
About $10,284–$10,999 new (checked October 2026)
Baby Lock machines are mainly sold through local dealers, which often include classes and service.
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XJ1
A fit for serious sewers and embroiderers who want one machine for large-field embroidery, quilting and everyday sewing. Skip it if you want a multi-needle machine for production, or if you need a new machine with a dealer warranty, since the XJ1 is hard to find new.
Discontinued: you will mostly find it used or refurbished.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Baby Lock Altair 2 and the XJ1?
Both stitch the same 9.5 × 14 in field.
Is the XJ1 better than the Altair 2 (BLTA2)?
Not on paper: the Altair 2 (BLTA2) matches or beats it. Pick the Altair 2 (BLTA2) if you do a lot of lettering (30 built-in fonts vs 24), or you want a model that is still sold new, with current support.
Do the Altair 2 (BLTA2) and XJ1 have the same hoop size?
Yes. Both stitch up to 9.5 × 14 in in one hooping.
Can the Altair 2 (BLTA2) and XJ1 use the same design files?
Yes, both read .PES and .PHC and .DST files.
More comparisons
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- Pfaff creative 4.5 vs XJ1
Full specs and sources: Baby Lock Altair 2 · Brother Stellaire XJ1. We are not affiliated with any maker.