Baby Lock Flare vs Brother NQ1700E
Both stitch the same 6 × 10 in field.
Which should you buy?
Choose the Flare if you want more built-in designs (293 vs 258); or if you do a lot of lettering (14 built-in fonts vs 13).
There is little reason to pick the NQ1700E unless you find it clearly cheaper, for example used or refurbished.
Flare vs NQ1700E: specs side by side
| Spec | Baby Lock Flare | Brother NQ1700E |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Embroidery only | Embroidery only |
| Embroidery field | 6 × 10 in (160 × 260 mm) | 6 × 10 in (160 × 260 mm) |
| Hoops included | 6 × 10 in (160 × 260 mm); 5 × 7 in (130 × 180 mm) | 6 × 10 in (160 × 260 mm); 5 × 7 in (130 × 180 mm) |
| File formats | .PES, .PHC, .DST | .PES, .PHC, .PEN, .DST |
| Design transfer | USB stick or Wi-Fi | USB stick or Wi-Fi |
| Built-in designs | 293 | 258 |
| Lettering fonts | 14 | 13 |
| Sewing stitches | Does not sew | Does not sew |
| Cap frame | No | No |
| Screen | touch | 4.85 in touch |
| Released | — | 2021 |
| Status | Sold new | Sold new |
| Typical price | $2,299–$2,529 | $2,399–$2,400 |
Bold marks the higher number where more is better. Prices are typical new ranges, not live prices.
Embroidery field: Flare vs NQ1700E
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 6 × 10 in embroidery field.
Flare
A home embroiderer who wants a field larger than 5 × 7 in and wireless design transfer at a single-needle price. Skip it if you need hats, a machine that also sews, or automatic color changes.
About $2,299–$2,529 new (checked October 2026)
Baby Lock machines are mainly sold through local dealers, which often include classes and service.
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NQ1700E
A fit for people who want a larger field than 5 × 7 in for bigger designs and combined layouts without moving to a multi-needle machine. Skip it if you also want to sew on the same machine or want to embroider caps.
About $2,399–$2,400 new (checked October 2026)
We may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we write. Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Baby Lock Flare and the NQ1700E?
Both stitch the same 6 × 10 in field.
Is the NQ1700E better than the Flare?
Not on paper: the Flare matches or beats it. Pick the Flare if you want more built-in designs (293 vs 258), or you do a lot of lettering (14 built-in fonts vs 13).
Do the Flare and NQ1700E have the same hoop size?
Yes. Both stitch up to 6 × 10 in in one hooping.
Can the Flare and NQ1700E use the same design files?
Yes, both read .PES and .PHC and .DST files.
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Full specs and sources: Baby Lock Flare · Brother NQ1700E. We are not affiliated with any maker.