With both sewing machine brands originating from Japan, there’s always been a level of competition between Janome and Brother sewing machines. However, there are a few things that distinguish the two brands.
In this post, we will cover a bit of history on the brands, what you can expect from their range and our recommendations.
How are they different?
Janome and Brother are two entirely different sewing machine brands each with its own rich history. Both brands are known to produce some of the best machines on the market, thanks to their Japanese engineering. However, we would argue Brother is more well known for its entry-level products and Janome for its high-end products. That being said, Brother does have a great selection of high-end models and you can get affordable Janome machines.
Read more:Bernina Vs Janome Sewing Machines: What is the Best?
Are Janome sewing machines good?
Janome sewing machines are known for creating innovative designs that have been copied and changed over the years by their competitors. They produce some of the best machines for domestic use. In fact, Janome established itself as a key figure when they were the first to develop a home-use, computerised sewing machine in 1979.
Since then, Janome has shown a focus on creating durable machines that reduce the room for human error while still maintaining freedom in functionality. Another thing to note is the speed at which you can produce designs and stitches. This will be touched on more later in the article, just know that some of the fastest machines ever produced are part of their range.
Janome machines are fantastic at any level but can be more pricey than other brands out there. However, Janome products are worth the higher price tag with the always exceptional build quality and easy-use design.
Where are Janome sewing machines made?
Janome Corporation is responsible for manufacturing its machines. With its headquarters based in Hachioji Japan, they’ve got multiple factories across Asia such as its plants in Taiwan and Thailand.
Our personal favourites
Now that you know a bit about each machine, here are some personal recommendations from our team at Direct Sewing.
Janome HD9 Professional – £1,299
The Janome HD9 Professional is an incredible sewing machine. Boasting 1600 stitches per minute, it’s one of the fastest models to ever exist. This is our favourite machine for high-quality home use, and here’s why:
- It can handle heavy-duty fabrics
- It uses industrial needles for long use
- It has an up/down button for quick pivoting
With the HD9, you get one of the best products on the market for a surprisingly good price.
Janome 2200XT – £189
One of the best entry-level models on the market, the Janome 2200XT is available for less than £200. It features:
- A selection of 22 popular stitch styles
- 2 easy to use dials for picking stitch style and length
- A convenient thread cutter
- A drop feed for freehand embroidery
Janome M7 Continental – £5,299
If price is no object and just want the best machine on the market, you will enjoy the award-winning Janome M7 Continental. It provides you with everything you could truly need from a household machine. Reserved for those only truly passionate about sewing, it is a machine for life. These are the benefits of the M7 Continental:
- 400 unique stitches
- Independent bobbin winder motor which winds while you sew
- Large extension table with storage drawer
- Automatic thread cutter
- 7-piece feed dog for quality stitching every time
- A dual feed system ‘AcuFeed Flex Plus’ is perfect for binding, quilting or stitching in the ditch
Is a Brother sewing machine good?
Brother sewing machines are great! Their range often provides a larger selection of stitch types compared to other models in the same price bracket. Then with consistent and reliable stitches, it makes it an easy decision to pick up one of their models.
Their machines are high quality and durable. Like Janome, Brother also has over a century in this industry and although they aren’t known for their innovation like the former, Brother always closely follows its competition.
Brother has been at the forefront of creating affordable sewing machines that are easy to use and will last a lifetime.
Where are Brother sewing machines made?
Brother Industries are responsible for the production of both their printers and sewing machines. Its headquarters are located in Nagoya, Aichi, Japan with manufacturing plants based in China, Taiwan and Vietnam.
They’ve been operating since 1908, back when the company was originally known as Yasui Sewing Machine Co.
Our personal favourites
Brother Innov-is A150 – £589
The Brother Innov-is A150 is perhaps the best value sewing machine on the market. It’s an award-winning model with a lot to offer any level of user. Here’s what you can expect from the Innov-is A150:
- 150 stitch styles
- An LCD screen that can combine and memorise stitches for you
- A lockstitch button which ties off threads for you
- A jam-proof bobbin system
Brother LX17 – £139
For under £150, you can get the Brother LX17. At Direct Sewing, we love the price and the quality of the model too. Currently, this model comes stock with a three-year warranty and is perhaps the cheapest product that we believe even a professional could get enjoyment out of. It is a barebones design but the features it has are fantastic and function how you would want them to. Here’s what the LX17 provides you with:
- 17 stitches
- Easy dial to select stitch style and width
- Extra bright LEDs for night use
- 4 step button-hole
- A reverse lever
Brother Innov-is V5LE- £3,499
The Brother Innov-is V5LE offers a vast array of preset features that you likely will never have the chance to go through in one lifetime. For those who want a professional-level machine that provides more options than anything else on the market, the Innov-is V5LE is your best choice. It allows you to use:
- 531 stitches with 17 fonts (including Japanese)
- 227 embroidery designs
- Auto needle threading and trimming
- USB import to import your designs
For those who want a high-level machine that isn’t quite as expensive as the Janome M7 Continental, the Brother Innov-is V5LE gives you a similar experience for a fraction of the price.
So which brand is better Janome or Brother?
There’s no true answer to this question. Both have excellent options at every price point. However, if you are looking for options on a budget we recommend Brother sewing machines. Then if you are able to invest in a higher-end sewing machine you should look into acquiring a Janome.
Hopefully, after reading this you feel like you can make the best decision. If you need more help making your decision make sure to contact us. Our sewing machine experts can be reached on 0207 738 9040 for more information.
