In this comparison, we are going to compare one of the most popular affordable sewing machines, the Brother LX3817 and Janome HD1000. What made these two sewing machines stand out was that they were packed with features in an affordable range combined with excellent stitch quality.
What are the major differences between the two? Below I will describe the differences in the simplest terms possible.
Table of Contents
Brother LX3817 vs. Janome HD1000: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
Both Brother LX3817 and Janome HD1000 are mechanical sewing machines. Although a mechanical sewing machine has fewer stitch options than a computerized one, they are easier to maintain and cost less.
Brother LX3817 vs. Janome HD1000 : Built-in Stitches
The Brother LX3817 has 17 stitches. The Janome HD1000 on the other hand comes with 14 built-in stitches. The apparent difference is in the buttonhole styles, where Brother LX3817 comes with 1 four-step buttonhole(s), Janome HD1000 has only 1 four-step buttonhole(s).
Weight
The Brother LX3817 sewing machine weighs approximately 10.36 lbs, while the Janome HD1000 comes with a weight of 16.8 lbs.
The extra weight can become cumbersome if you don’t have a set location in your home for your sewing machine.
Start/Stop Button
Neither Brother LX3817 sewing machine nor Janome HD1000 sewing machine has a start/stop button. This might not be convenient for a novice to sew effectively.
Speed Control Slider
Neither Brother LX3817 sewing machine nor Janome HD1000 has a speed control slider. With a speed control slider, the sewing speed will never go above your selected speed, no matter how hard you press on the pedal.
Automatic Needle Threader
To assist the user, self-threading sewing machines have what is called an automatic needle threader. The Janome HD1000 has one while the Brother LX3817 doesn’t.
Drop-in Bobbin
This Brother LX3817 sewing machine comes with a drop-in bobbin, which allows you to see how much thread is left on the bobbin through the window. While Janome HD1000 doesn’t
Programmable Needle Up/Down
With a programmable needle up/down function, the needle will stop down in the fabric, allowing you to raise the presser foot and adjust the fabric without the fabric moving out of position because the needle will hold the fabric in place. However, unfortunately, these two sewing machines come with this feature.
Free Arm
There is free arm on both the Brother LX3817 and the Janome HD1000. The free arm is a very useful feature to all sewing machines as it makes sewing one layer of fabric without catching another. This is because all of the workings around the bobbin race, feed dogs, and needles are housed there.
| Brother LX3817 | Janome HD1000 | |
| Product Image | |
|
| Sewing Machine Type | Mechanical | Mechanical |
| Stitches | 17 | 14 |
| Buttonhole Styles | 1 four-step | 1 four-step |
| Start/Stop Button | No | No |
| Built-in Memory | No | No |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | No | No |
| Monogramming Font | No | No |
| Drop Feed | – | Yes |
| Free Arm | Yes | Yes |
| Working Light | Yes, LED | Yes |
| Speed Control Slider | No | No |
| Weight | 10.36 lbs | 16.8 lbs |
| Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | – | Yes |
| Snap-on Presser Foot | – | Yes |
| Automatic Thread Cutter | No | No |
| Automatic Needle Threader | No | Yes |
| Drop-in Bobbin | Yes | No |
| USB Connectivity | No | No |
| Stitch Selection | Dial | Dial |
| Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | – | Yes |
| Included Feet | Buttonhole Foot, Zipper Foot, Zigzag Foot, Button Sewing Foot | Rolled Hem Foot, Zigzag Foot |
| Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | No | No |
| Tension | Adjustable by dial | Adjustable With Dial |
| Knee Lifter | No | No |
| Warranty | 25 Year Limited | 25 Year Limited |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Brother LX3817 Video Review
Janome HD1000 Video Review
The Verdict
Both of these sewing machines come from fantastic companies, but they are particularly difficult to choose between. Based on their features, my overall recommendation would be to choose the machine that comes with more built-in stitches at an affordable price.
Q. Can a regular sewing machine sew vinyl?
A. Yes, with the same modifications listed above for leather.
Q. What should I know about manual vs. electric sewing machines?
A. Manual sewing machines were the mainstay of the crafting world, but in more recent years electric (also known as computerized) machines have been increasing in popularity for their easy operation and advanced functions, such as embroidery.
If you’re looking for a simple sewing experience without frills, a mechanical machine gives you straightforward functionality.
Without electronic components, some feel that these machines prove more reliable in the long term.
However, computerized machines may shorten the learning curve for some new sewers, since choosing stitches and settings only requires the push of a button.
Q. Can a normal sewing machine sew canvas?
A. Yes, canvas can be sewn on a regular sewing machine.
Q. Can I interchange metal and plastic bobbins if they are the same size?
A. Metal bobbins and plastic bobbins of the same size can NOT be swapped. Machines are set for a very precise tension setting. If they are set for a lighter plastic bobbin, the tension will change if a heavier metal bobbin is used.
Q. Does the machine work well with stretchy materials?
A. The machine works perfectly with all types of fabrics. As long as the user can work with the material, there should be no problem.
Q. Are sewing machines dangerous?
A. Like any machine, a sewing machine can be dangerous if not used correctly. Always follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer when it comes to maintenance, and pay attention while sewing.
