What is your reason if you made that choice?

Cathy

Mine came for free, isn't that a great reason?

The perfect reason.

Berninas, other than the housing, are still metal. For durability, that's a plus. However, if you will be taking the machine to classes, retreats, etc., hauling a 25+ lb. machine is a pain in the neck.

That's why my "regular" machine is a Bernina, and my "traveling" machine is a Janome.

I didn't have a Janome dealer around when I got my Bernina. So I never test drove one. I was replacing a Pfaff and had tried the Viking and wasn't impressed. So that is why I got a Bernina.

Great reason I would take anyone that way

That was my thinking as well I have an older Kenmore heavy machine purchased a gem gold to take to class but looking to have only one machine but still need a little one

I think the quality over all is better. That said 6 plus years ago I choose a Janome over a Bernina because it seemed Janome was more in touch with quilting needs. (large throat space, automatic push button thread cutter, quilters package, feet included and knee lifter) I would look at all the features and what you want and test drive both. By the way my dealer has both Bernina and Janome. She actually recommended the Janome to me because of the quilting features. I do have a vintage Bernina 830 also. I do think Janome quality is good too. I run my Janome 6500, Janome Gem Silver, and two other Janomes hard and for years now and they are all in excellent shape.

I have both a Janome and Bernina! Get two is my motto:> To be serious. Nothing compares to the quality of a Bernina. That being said, it's the most expensive on the market. IMHO worth it, but Janome has an excellent reputation and I was thrilled with my 9000 until I upgraded to my Bernina. So....it really is preference and how much you want to spend on a new toy.

It seems you can get more for your money with a Janome