Brother vs Janome sewing machines

How the two brands differ

Brother is a Japanese electronics company with deep roots in sewing machines. Its approach is to put a lot of technology into each model: LCD screens, start/stop buttons, speed sliders, automatic thread cutters and large stitch libraries appear even on mid priced machines. Brother also sells many sewing and embroidery combination machines.

Janome is a Japanese company that concentrates on sewing, quilting, embroidery and overlocking machines. Its listings tend to highlight things that affect how fabric feeds and how stitches form, such as adjustable presser foot pressure, multi-segment feed dogs and, on quilting models, knee lifters and wide extension tables.

Neither approach is wrong. A long stitch list is only useful if you will use those stitches, and a sturdy feed system matters most if you sew a wide range of fabrics. For each full range, see our Brother lineup guide and Janome lineup guide.

Four models compared

We have paired a compact computerised model from each brand, then a larger feature rich model. All details below come from the product listings, and anything a listing does not give is marked as not stated.

Compact computerised: Innov-is A65 vs Janome 360DC

Both machines list 60 stitches, so this is a fair head to head. The Brother Innov-is A65 adds an automatic thread cutter, which saves time at the end of every seam, plus a one-action needle threader, start/stop button and slide speed control. If convenience features are what you want, it ticks more boxes.

The Janome 360DC answers with details that affect stitching itself: a 7 mm maximum zigzag width, a 7-segment feed dog, adjustable presser foot pressure and needle up/down positioning. Foot pressure adjustment helps when you move between fine fabrics and thicker layers, and a wider zigzag gives bolder satin and decorative stitches. It is also the lighter machine at 5.5 kg.

For dressmakers who sew a mix of jersey, cotton and the odd heavier fabric, the Janome's feeding features are appealing. For someone who sews lots of short seams and patchwork pieces, the Brother's thread cutter may make the bigger day to day difference.

Compare more computerised sewing machines →

Larger models: Brother FS200CE vs Janome 5270QDC

At this level the brands pull further apart. The Brother FS200CE offers 200 stitches with eight one-step buttonhole styles, and its strength is the accessory bundle: a walking foot, a concealed zipper foot, a wide table and a hard case. That makes it a well rounded package for someone starting on quilts and home furnishings.

The Janome 5270QDC has 270 stitches including 12 buttonholes and lettering, an automatic thread cutter, foot pressure adjustment, a wide extension table and a knee lifter. A knee lifter lets you raise the presser foot without taking your hands off the fabric, which is a real help when pivoting around corners on quilts. It is heavier at 10.7 kg, which suits a machine that stays set up on a table.

Think about the projects you sew most often before choosing between these two machines:

• Quilting and patchwork with lots of pivoting: the 5270QDC's knee lifter and thread cutter stand out.
• Starting out with quilting and want the walking foot included: the FS200CE comes ready.
• Portability matters: the FS200CE is the lighter of the two.

Feet, needles and servicing

Most domestic Brother and Janome machines take snap-on feet, but shank heights and specialist feet vary by model, and Janome uses different shank types across its range. Before buying extra feet, check your manual for the shank type and the feet listed for your model. Our article on whether sewing machine feet are universal explains the shank types.

Both brands use standard 130/705H domestic needles, so you can choose needles by fabric. The needle size guide helps you pick the right size. For servicing, look for a local sewing machine shop or engineer who works on your chosen brand, and read the warranty terms on the listing you buy from.

Frequently asked questions

Is Janome or Brother better quality? Both are established Japanese makers, and quality depends more on the model than the brand. Janome listings often stress feeding and foot pressure, while Brother listings stress features and convenience. Compare the models you are considering on the features you will actually use.

Which brand is better for quilting? Both make quilting focused machines. Look for a wide table, walking foot, thread cutter and knee lifter. In our pairing, the Janome 5270QDC has a knee lifter and thread cutter, while the Brother FS200CE includes a walking foot and wide table.

Do Brother and Janome machines use the same bobbins? Not always. Bobbin size and type vary between brands and models, so use the bobbin listed in your manual rather than assuming one will fit.

Which is easier for a beginner? Brother's start/stop button and speed slider, found on many models, make early practice easier. Several Janome computerised models also have start/stop and speed control, including the 360DC, so check each listing.