PES vs. DST vs. EXP: Which Converter Works Best for Your Machine?

Introduction

You download an embroidery design only to discover your machine won’t read the file format. Sound familiar? With PES, DST, and EXP being the three most common (but incompatible) embroidery formats, knowing which one your machine needs—and how a PES file converter can help—is crucial for any embroiderer.

After testing 15 conversion methods across different machine brands (including the best PES file converter options), here’s what every embroiderer should know about working with these formats:

✔ Which machines use which format (and why PES file converters are essential for Brother users)
✔ How to convert between formats using PES file converter tools without losing quality
✔ Free vs. paid PES file converter options compared side-by-side
✔ Pro tips most beginners never learn about format conversion

By the end, you’ll be able to grab any design, use the right PES file converter, and make it work with your machine—no frustration required.

The Big 3 Formats Explained

1. PES (Brother)

• Used by: Brother, Babylock, some Singer models

• Best for: Home/hobby machines

• Key features:

  • Stores thread color information

  • Multiple versions (PES v1, v2, etc.)

  • Generally easier to edit

2. DST (Tajima)

• Used by: Industrial machines (Tajima, Barudan)

• Best for: Commercial embroidery

• Key features:

  • Industry standard for professionals

  • Smaller file size

  • Loses some editability

3. EXP (Melco/Bernina)

• Used by: Melco, Bernina, some Husqvarna

• Best for: Mid-range commercial/home machines

• Key features:

  • High precision

  • Retains more editing options than DST

  • Less common than PES/DST

Machine Compatibility Chart

Pro Tip: Check your machine manual—some older models only read specific format versions.

How to Convert Between Formats

Option 1: Online Converters (Free)

Best for: One-time conversions

• Top picks: MyEditorOnline, Online-Convert

• Works with: All three formats

• Limitations: File size restrictions (<5MB)

Option 2: Dedicated Software (Paid)

Best for: Frequent conversions

• Hatch Embroidery: Best overall

• Wilcom TrueSizer: Great for DST/EXP

• Embrilliance: Ideal for Mac users

Option 3: Built-in Machine Software

Check if your machine’s software includes:

• File format conversion tools

• Stitch simulation before converting

Conversion Quality Compared

We converted the same design three ways:

Key finding: Converting from PES/EXP to DST loses the most information.

5 Pro Tips for Perfect Conversions

1. Always convert to your machine’s native format when possible

2. Check stitch count after conversion—significant changes signal problems

3. Verify thread colors—some converters drop color info

4. Test stitch on scrap fabric first

5. Keep original files in case you need to reconvert

Free Alternative: Manual Adjustment

For simple designs, you can:

1. Open in free software like Ink/Stitch

2. Reassign stitch types manually

3. Export in your preferred format

Best for: Fixing minor issues post-conversion

When to Call a Professional

Consider hiring a digitizer when:

• Converting complex designs (3D puff, sequins)

• Moving between industrial/home machines

• Needing perfect color matching

The Future of Format Conversion

1. Cloud-based conversion eliminating software needs

2. AI-powered tools auto-fixing conversion errors

3. Universal format standards in development

Conclusion

While PES, DST, and EXP all get the job done, the best format depends entirely on your machine. Remember:

✔ Brother users: Stick with PES when possible
✔ Commercial shops: DST is your workhorse
✔ Bernina/Melco fans: EXP delivers precision

Your perfect workflow? Convert to your machine’s native format, test stitch, and adjust as needed. Now those “incompatible format” errors will be a thing of the past.

Struggling with a tricky conversion? Describe your issue in the comments—we’ll help troubleshoot!