The 590 sewing machine only - machine is embroidery enabled and requires the embroidery unit which is an optional extra.
 
Stitches - total 1774, including 38 utility, 18 automatic buttonholes including eyelets. Plus 500 decorative, 59 traditional quilting/patchwork, 40 cross stitches, 9 alphabets, (each letter and number counts towards stitch total).
 
Buttonholes are made easier with the built in measuring system. Place the button to the screen to determine the size after which the machine will automatically sew the correct size buttonhole.
 
Full colour touch screen - displays all stitches, easier to select and more intuitive to use. Adjustments to the stitches are shown in real time. Multi function dials for width and length adjustment, can be changed whilst sewing.
 
On screen help - Sewing consultant advises for best needle and settings for the fabric used. Built in tutorials offer onscreen support.
 
Long arm - gives an inside space of 8.5" (21.5 cm) to the right of the needle.
 
Built in memory - create names and stitch combinations to personalise your sewing projects.
 
Personal memory (permanent and temporary) - default settings for stitches can be altered to your preferred settings and saved permanently until removed.  Adjustments are saved even when the machine is switched off. Adjustments to stitch length, width and needle positions are temporary saved as you switch between different stitches. These settings are only saved whilst the machine is on, once switched off stitches will return to default settings.
 
Adaptive thread tension - ensures optimal thread tension during sewing and embroidery and helps achieve a perfect stitch quality. After manually adjusting (if required), the thread tension to the thread and fabric, the adaptive thread tension constantly checks the thread tension as it sews, adjusting it unobtrusively and automatically whenever necessary. 
 
Jumbo bobbin - larger bobbin that has 70 % more capacity.
 
Automatic presser foot lift - raise and lower the presser foot automatically before and after sewing. Foot can hover, leaving needle in the fabric ideal for pivoting. Hover positions can be set to a preferred height.
 
Dual feed - built in walking foot system that with one action simply engages into the back of the dual feed feet. Range of feet are available (optional extras) that can be used with the dual feed. A standard dual feed foot comes with the machine.
 
Bernina Stitch Regulator (BSR) - sophisticated sensor technology that monitors the speed at which the fabric moves and regulates the length of the stitches. For consistent stitch length when free motioning.