Ricoma EM-10S Creator vs Tajima Sai: Best Embroidery Machine for NZ Creators?

If you're searching for the best embroidery machine in New Zealand, two names are bound to pop up: the Ricoma EM-10S Creator and the Tajima Sai. Both are highly capable multi-needle embroidery machines, ideal for custom apparel, small business embroidery, and creative startups across Aotearoa.

But which one offers better value, performance, and features for Kiwi makers? Let’s dive into this comparison—designed specifically for New Zealand buyers.

🧵 Needle Count: Ricoma Offers More for Detailed Designs

• Ricoma EM-10S: 10 needles

• Tajima Sai: 8 needles

With 10 needles, the Ricoma EM-10S allows for more colour threads to be loaded at once reducing downtime and increasing workflow efficiency. This is especially handy for New Zealand embroidery businesses handling detailed logos or multi-colour jobs.

For anyone running an embroidery business from home, or juggling high-volume jobs, this extra needle capacity is a real productivity boost.

📱 Easy-to-Use Touchscreen for NZ Startups & Home-Based Embroiderers

The Ricoma EM-10S features a large, 7” high-definition touchscreen that simplifies the user experience. You can preview designs, make adjustments, and operate the machine with confidence—even if you’re new to embroidery.

The Tajima Sai has a reliable, professional-grade control panel, but some beginners may find it has a steeper learning curve.

🧠 Built-in Wi-Fi & Included Digitising Software

The Ricoma EM-10S Creator includes built-in Wi-Fi and comes bundled with Chroma Inspire digitising software—perfect for creators looking to design and digitise from home.

This makes it one of the most beginner-friendly embroidery machines available in NZ, especially if you're launching a custom embroidery brand or exploring monogramming, logo work, or cap embroidery.

With the Tajima Sai, powerful software is available—but often comes as an additional cost.

🇳🇿 Why NZ Creators Are Choosing Ricoma

In New Zealand, the demand for home-based embroidery businesses, side hustles, and craft-based income is growing fast. Kiwis want compact machines that deliver commercial-quality results—without needing a huge upfront investment.

The Ricoma EM-10S offers excellent value for money in NZ, with a package that includes:

• Multiple embroidery hoops

• Cap embroidery driver

• Machine stand

• Starter thread kit

• Full training and lifetime support from NZ supplier Direct Sewing Machines & Supplies

By comparison, many Tajima Sai accessories—like the cap attachment and stand—must be purchased separately.

🧢 Cap Embroidery Made Easy

Both machines are capable of stitching on caps, hoodies, bags and more. The Ricoma EM-10S includes its cap driver system out of the box—saving time and reducing extra costs for Kiwi embroiderers starting out.

This makes it a strong contender for anyone looking for a cap embroidery machine in New Zealand.

⚙️ Who Are These Machines Best For?

• Ricoma EM-10S Creator: Ideal for NZ startups, small embroidery businesses, and creative side hustles. It’s easy to use, comes with everything you need, and offers strong value for those wanting to grow their business without big overheads.

• Tajima Sai: A respected choice for professional users, particularly those already experienced in commercial embroidery and looking for a well-established brand.

NZ Embroidery Machine Comparison

Final Verdict: The Best Multi-Needle Embroidery Machine in NZ?

Both machines are capable, but if you’re looking for a feature-packed, beginner-friendly embroidery machine that’s ready to go straight out of the box, the Ricoma EM-10S Creator offers serious value—especially for the New Zealand embroidery market.

From Auckland to Christchurch, Dunedin to Tauranga, Kiwi crafters and creators are turning to Ricoma for its ease of use, included accessories, and affordable price point.

👉 Interested in the Ricoma EM-10S? View the machine and package here or contact the team at Direct Sewing Machines & Supplies for expert support and a personalised demo.