Overlock, serger and coverstitch machines explained

Overlock, serger and coverstitch machines all finish seams, but they do different jobs. This guide explains the difference and which one to buy from our range of sergers, overlock and coverstitch machines.

Overlock and serger

These two names mean the same type of machine. It sews the seam, trims the edge and wraps thread over it in one pass. That gives a neat finish on knits and stops woven fabric from fraying. A 3-thread machine finishes edges. A 4-thread machine adds seam strength. A 5-thread industrial machine sews a safety stitch and an overlock together.

Coverstitch

A coverstitch machine makes the parallel rows of stitching you see on hems and necklines of T-shirts and sportswear. It does not trim the fabric. The Janome CoverPro 2000CPX costs AED 1,802.91.

Home models

For home and small studio use: Janome MyLock 204D at AED 932, Janome 9300DX at AED 972.79 and Janome 744D at AED 1,348.94.

Industrial models

For production work, the Juki MO-6816S (AED 4,200) is a 2-needle 5-thread overlock machine, and the Gemsy GEM-7715 (AED 1,725.30) is a 5-thread overlock. They run faster and are built for all-day use.

How to choose

• Sewing knit garments for sale: an overlock plus a coverstitch.
• Finishing woven seams: an overlock alone.
• Production line: an industrial overlock.

A lockstitch machine is still needed for most seams. See how to choose an industrial sewing machine and sewing machine prices in the UAE.

Prices are in AED. They are the prices shown on each product page and were checked on 12 November 2026. They can change, so confirm on the product page before you order.

Not sure which model fits your work? Browse the full range or contact Sewmall with your garment type and daily volume, and we will suggest a machine.