Coats Astra bobbins are made of spun polyester which are constructed by spinning multiple polyester fibers together. These fibers are more fuzzy and grab the slippery embroidery thread better. The disadvantage of spun polyester is that it produces extra lint and requires more cleaning of your bobbin case and machine. This bobbin in usually cost less than continuous filament bobbins. This bobbin has cardboard sides.

Coats Tru-Sew bobbins are a continuous filament polyester thread which is constructed of one single, continuous strand, rather than multiple strands spun together. This thread runs cleaner and has a more uniform diameter with produces less breakage and less lint. This bobbin has cardboard sides. The disadvantage of cardboard sides is that they produce dust as the spin in the case and occasionally in the process of gluing on the sides, some of the glue gets on the inner portion of the thread causing the bobbins to not run down completely.

Threadetc's Private Label bobbins are similar to Coats Tru-Sews. They are a continuous filament thread wound on a cardboard bobbin. Because they do not carry the brand name, they are a cheaper alternative.

NEB plastic bobbins are also made with a continuous filament, polyester thread. The plastic bobbin allows this bobbin to run smoother and does not produce the dust that cardboard sides can produce. NEB's avoid the problem of glue getting on the thread as the sides are glued on. Some machines will need a no backlash (NBL) spring in the bobbin case to run efficiently. This spring helps slow the bobbin down upon stopping. This bobbin will run all the way to the end without loss of thread.

Fil-Tec Magna-glide bobbins are wound with continuous filament, polyester thread onto a spindle with a small magnet on the end of one side. This magnet allows the bobbin to run smooth and consistent from beginning to end. This bobbin is sideless, therefore avoiding any problems with cardboard dust or glue. If your bobbin case has a spring, it must be removed in order to use the magna-glides. The bobbin is inserted into the case with the magnet touching the back wall of the case. One benefit is that you will not have to chase a bobbin across the floor as you pull them out of the machine. The bobbin stays in place. This bobbin also runs completely to the end, so no thread is wasted. It is a very clean bobbin with little or no dust and lint buildup.

Saba bobbin thread on 5000 meter cones contains 100% polyester thread and are perfect for winding your own bobbins. Saba is available in white or black.