Baby Lock Meridian 2 vs Brother Stellaire XE1
Both stitch the same 9.5 × 14 in field.
Which should you buy?
Choose the Meridian 2 if you do a lot of lettering (30 built-in fonts vs 24).
Choose the XE1 if you want more built-in designs (727 vs 534).
Meridian 2 vs XE1: specs side by side
| Spec | Baby Lock Meridian 2 | Brother Stellaire XE1 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Embroidery only | Embroidery only |
| 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); 5 × 7 in (130 × 180 mm) | 9.5 × 14 in (240 × 360 mm); 5 × 7 in (130 × 180 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 | 534 | 727 |
| Lettering fonts | 30 | 24 |
| Sewing stitches | Does not sew | Does not sew |
| Cap frame | No | No |
| Screen | touch | 10.1 in touch |
| Released | — | 2019 |
| Status | Sold new | Sold new |
| Typical price | $7,947–$8,499 | — |
Bold marks the higher number where more is better. Prices are typical new ranges, not live prices.
Embroidery field: Meridian 2 vs XE1
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.
Meridian 2
A good fit for embroiderers and quilters who want a big single-hooping field, a placement app and wireless transfer from one single-needle machine. Skip it if you want hats, a machine that also sews, or a smaller budget.
About $7,947–$8,499 new (checked October 2026)
Baby Lock machines are mainly sold through local dealers, which often include classes and service.
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XE1
A fit for serious hobbyists and home businesses that want a very large single-needle field and wifi. Skip it if you want one machine that also sews (Brother's XJ1 adds sewing) or need a multi-needle machine for production.
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 Meridian 2 and the XE1?
Both stitch the same 9.5 × 14 in field.
Is the XE1 better than the Meridian 2?
It depends on what you need. Pick the XE1 if you want more built-in designs (727 vs 534); pick the Meridian 2 if you do a lot of lettering (30 built-in fonts vs 24).
Do the Meridian 2 and XE1 have the same hoop size?
Yes. Both stitch up to 9.5 × 14 in in one hooping.
Can the Meridian 2 and XE1 use the same design files?
Yes, both read .PES and .PHC and .DST files.
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- Bernina B 700 E vs XE1
Full specs and sources: Baby Lock Meridian 2 · Brother Stellaire XE1. We are not affiliated with any maker.