On paper the EM-1010 is a lot of machine: ten needles, a large field, a colour touchscreen and a price that undercuts comparable Brother units. That value is real, and it's why Ricoma has won a big share of first-time commercial buyers. The nuance the spec sheet won't tell you is the support model — and for a machine your income depends on, that's the spec that matters most.
How it compares
| Machine | Field | Built-ins | Price (axis $4,000–15,000) | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ricoma EM-1010 our pick for value · 10-needle | 12.2×8.3 in | 200 | checking | 8.1/10 |
| Brother PR680W the Brother alternative · 6-needle | 8×12 in | 60 | checking | 8.7/10 |
| Brother PR1055X Brother 10-needle | 8×14 in | 140 | checking | 8.5/10 |
Dealer/street pricing, 3 Jul 2026.
Where it wins, where it loses
What owners report
We read the threads so you don't have to. Each card summarises what owners in that community actually say — follow the link to read the discussion yourself.
Ricoma owners consistently highlight the value — ten needles at roughly six-needle Brother money — and rate the included training and responsive support highly, especially for first-time commercial buyers.
Read the thread →The counter-view: Brother’s dealer network is larger, so local servicing and resale are easier. Ricoma support is centralised — great when it’s good, but you’re reliant on the company rather than a nearby dealer.
Read the thread →Common questions
Are Ricoma embroidery machines any good?
Yes — we score the EM-1010 8.1/10. The value is real: ten needles and a large field at roughly six-needle Brother money, with well-reviewed onboarding for first-time commercial buyers. The trade-off is a smaller dealer network, so servicing and resale lean on the company rather than a local shop.
Ricoma vs Brother multi-needle — which is better for a small business?
Ricoma if you want maximum capability per dollar and strong hand-holding from the manufacturer; Brother if a dealer nearby, easy servicing and stronger resale matter more. Owners split on exactly this line — neither is a wrong answer.
How much does a Ricoma embroidery machine cost?
The 10-needle EM-1010 runs roughly $5,999–$7,999 depending on bundle and promotions (checked July 2026) — typically thousands less than a comparable 10-needle Brother PR1055X.
Can Ricoma machines embroider caps?
Yes — Ricoma multi-needle machines support cap drivers and cylinder frames, and caps are one of the most common reasons buyers choose a multi-needle Ricoma as their first commercial machine.