bernette b64 vs b68: choose a serger or a combo machine

What each machine is for

The b64 is the focused serger. Its 16 patterns cover two-, three- and four-thread overlock formations, with the knife trimming and finishing a fabric edge. It is the straightforward choice if you already have a regular sewing machine and want a faster way to assemble and finish knits, clean seam allowances or make rolled hems. It does not make a coverstitch hem or replace a lockstitch machine for zippers, buttonholes and everyday construction seams.

The b68 adds coverstitch, chainstitch and combination formations alongside overlocking. Its 31 pattern count spans those different modes, not an ordinary 31-stitch sewing library. Coverstitch works without trimming the edge, which suits stretch hems; the overlock arrangement cuts, joins and finishes. The extra flexibility is useful if both jobs recur in your projects, but the operator must change inserts and machine settings when moving between modes. It is not a push-button conversion.

The b62 is the family’s coverstitch model rather than a serger. The official brochure lists four coverstitches and three chainstitches for it. That points to a different need: hemming and topstitching without an overlock knife doing the edge trimming. If you only need coverstitch, a dedicated coverstitch model may be a simpler match than paying for overlock functions you will not use.

Threading and setup are still part of the work

On the b64 and b68, air threading is for the looper threads; needle paths are still threaded by hand. The machines also rely on correctly selected needle positions, thread paths, tensions, knife settings and stitch-chart adjustments. Their micro thread control and differential feed can help tune loop balance or reduce waviness, but you still need to sew a test scrap in the same fabric and thread. The manuals caution against waxed or coated thread in the air-threader channels.

Both the b64 and b68 provide a 130 mm work area to the right of the needle, a free arm, knee lifter and five LEDs, and each reaches a stated maximum of 1,300 stitches per minute. Do not mistake the maximum for an independent speed cap: a foot controller sets the pace. The b64’s current page lists 16 patterns; the b68 page and brochure list 31 because its count includes additional stitch modes. The shared headline specifications do not mean they have the same capabilities.

A practical choice

There is a wording wrinkle in the linked b64 manual: it contains generic references to a coverstitch insert and coverstitch care, while the b64 model page and b60-series brochure classify b64 as an overlocker and assign coverstitch to b62/b68 configurations. The b64 stitch chart itself lists overlock formations. Do not buy on the generic wording alone; ask for the exact model-specific setup if a seller advertises b64 coverstitching.

• Choose the b64 AIRLOCK if you need edge-trimming overlock seams and already have a conventional sewing machine.
• Compare the standard b68 AIRLOCK if both overlocking and coverstitch/chainstitch work matter in one machine.
• Look at the b62 if your priority is coverstitch hems rather than serger edge finishing; verify its exact package and support before ordering.

For either overlocker, leave room for its full operating footprint with table and offcut bin attached. Confirm the seller’s exact accessories and warranty; manufacturer package lists are not proof that a particular used or retailer box is complete. This is a feature comparison from the official U.S. model pages, linked manuals and b60-series brochure, not a claim of comparative testing.

Sources: bernette b64 AIRLOCK page, bernette b68 AIRLOCK page, official b60-series comparison brochure, and the respective b64 manual and b68 manual.