Bernina or Janome?
 

I've done many search attempts and found one great post on Berninas--but can't find anything on Janomes.

My Babylock Quest is in the shop and I've lost trust in it, so am looking for a new machine. The Bernina has this BSR--stitch regulator that even works for free motion quilting and after what my BL has put me though over the years--that is looking like the biggest selling point to me.

In reading about Janomes--which I like the look of better--but that can't come into play ;-) I don't see anything about stitch regulators. Janome lovers care to comment?

Bernina owners love their machines and except for the 700 series, they seem to be amazing. Are Janomes as amazing? I need a machine that doesn't skip stitches or have tension issues.

Looking at Bernina 380, 530, or 550QE or Janome Memory Craft 6300P--the price difference is $100s, but if a Bernina really will keep quilting joyful--I'm willing to pay.

This won't really answer your question. I have the Bernina 440QE since 2008. Absolutely love it. Keep it serviced every year. Also have the Janome Gold, which is a smaller inexpensive machine so no comparison to the Memory Craft. Have had 3 Berninas and wouldn't trade them for anything but a new Bernina. Well worth the extra dollars IMHO.

I have the inexpensive Janome Jem Gold. It is a little workhorse, no problems at all and it is years old but it is no where close to the high end Janome. I have an older Bernina 1260 and it is still sewing like new. I am thinking of the 550QE also. But by the time I decide I need a new one there will be newer series. LOL

Thanks--both good machines. The one feature that may make me lean Janome way is the bigger harp, or throat. I like space there. The Janomes have it--but to get it on a Bernina I'd have to spend $1000s more.

I own Bernina machines -- wouldn't go to another brand. I know Janome owners who feel the same way -- it all comes down to what YOU want and what YOU want to spend.

I've had my 780 now, for over two years and since the update that resolved an issue with the newly designed bobbin assembly shortly after I purchased it, it sews like an absolute dream.

I've owned Berninas for over twenty years. They're truly a work horse.

Why not go visit both dealers for a test sew?

I have a Janome with a big throat and wouldn't trade it in for a Bernina with a small throat! I love my Janome!

I have had a Janome for years. I have the 8900 now and love it. When deciding to get it I did research and found people with problems with EVERY machine made.

Thank you for all the good points to consider. I actually have a Bernina 210 on loan while they wrestle with my Baby Lock. I know it's an older model, but I'm not liking it so far. I'm sure the newer models are smoother. I'm not one to embrace change though. lol

I love my Janome 7700 Horizon! The added harp space is such a nice feature. Also, it came with many feet so there really is not any feet to buy separately, unless there is a specialty foot that is out of the normal sewing realm. My friend who has a Bernina said her machine did not come with all the feet Janome did and she ended up having to buy some feet separately. I would definitely go and test drive different machines and brands to see what feels best to you. Also, buying from a local shop is a good idea, since they will be close if you have questions etc. when you start using the machine at home. Good luck.