Janome vs Bernina and Bernette

Bernina, Bernette and Janome explained

Bernina is a Swiss sewing machine maker known for premium machines aimed at keen dressmakers, quilters and embroiderers. Berninas are typically sold through specialist dealers, which often provide lessons and servicing, and they use Bernina's own presser foot system rather than standard snap-on feet. Because no Bernina branded machines feature in our product list, we only compare the brand in general terms here.

Bernette is Bernina's more affordable line. The machines carry Swiss design and the Bernina connection, but they sit at prices closer to mainstream brands and are widely available online. Our Bernette lineup guide covers the full range.

Janome is a Japanese maker with a broad range of mechanical, computerised, quilting and embroidery machines plus overlockers. It is sold through both large retailers and sewing shops. See our Janome lineup guide for its models.

Four machines compared

Here are two Bernette machines and two Janome machines at broadly similar levels. Details come from the product listings only, and where a listing does not give a figure we say so. The Bernette listings are short on detail, so check the maker's specification for stitch counts before buying.

Higher level: Bernette 38 vs Janome 5270QDC

The Bernette 38 is a computerised machine with an LCD display, an automatic thread cutter and an automatic tie-off function, which secures the end of a seam without you having to backstitch. It also lists adjustable presser foot pressure, LED lighting and an extension table, plus a set of accessories and feet. Thread cutting and tie-off together make finishing seams much quicker.

The Janome 5270QDC lists 270 stitches including 12 buttonholes and lettering, an automatic thread cutter, foot pressure adjustment, a knee lifter and a wide extension table. The knee lifter is the stand out for quilters, as it lets you raise the foot while keeping both hands on the fabric. Three optical magnifiers are included to help with close work.

If you want the largest stitch library and quilting conveniences, the Janome has the edge on paper. If you value the Bernina family design and automatic tie-off, the Bernette 38 is the one to look at.

Compare computerised sewing machines →

Entry level: Bernette b35 vs Janome 423S

The Bernette b35 is a compact machine with a one-step buttonhole. The listing gives few other details, so check stitch count, included feet and warranty with the seller or on the Bernette specification before you buy.

The Janome 423S is a mechanical machine with 24 stitches, an automatic one-step buttonhole, variable stitch width and length, a metal body, a drop feed for freehand embroidery and a hard cover. Its listing states it is made in Japan. For a first machine that is simple to use, it offers a clear, well documented package.

Because the 423S listing is far more complete, it is easier to know exactly what you are getting. That does not make the b35 a weaker machine, only one you should research further.

See our best sewing machines for beginners →

Presser feet and accessories

Feet are one of the biggest practical differences. Full Bernina machines use Bernina's own foot system, so you buy Bernina feet for them. Bernette and Janome machines at the levels compared here generally use snap-on feet, although shank heights and specialist feet vary by model. Check your manual before buying extras, and read our explainer on whether sewing machine feet are universal.

Needles are simpler: domestic machines from all three use the standard 130/705H system, so you can choose by fabric with our needle size guide.

Dealers, support and buying advice

Premium machines are often bought through a dealer because the shop can offer setup help, lessons and servicing. If you are weighing a full Bernina against a Janome, visit local dealers for both, compare warranty terms and ask who services the machine after the warranty ends.

For Bernette and Janome machines bought online, check the warranty on the listing, keep your receipt and look for a local sewing machine engineer who works on your brand. Service intervals and cleaning routines are covered in your manual.

• Check the warranty length and terms on the specific listing.
• Find a local engineer or dealer who services your chosen brand.
• Confirm which feet and bobbins your model uses before buying extras.

Frequently asked questions

Is Bernette the same as Bernina? Bernette is Bernina's more affordable line. It shares the Swiss design connection, but the machines are positioned below full Berninas and many use standard snap-on feet rather than Bernina's own foot system.

Is Janome or Bernette better? At similar levels they are close, so compare models. In our pairing, the Janome 5270QDC lists more stitches and a knee lifter, while the Bernette 38 adds automatic tie-off. At entry level, the Janome 423S listing is more detailed than the Bernette b35's.

Do Bernina feet fit Janome machines? Full Bernina machines use their own foot system, so Bernina feet will not simply fit a Janome. Bernette and Janome snap-on feet may be interchangeable on some models, but check shank type first.

Is a premium Bernina worth it over Janome? That depends on how much you sew and whether you value dealer support. Visit a dealer for each brand, try the machines if you can, and compare warranty and servicing terms before deciding.