In this comparison, we are going to compare one of the most popular affordable sewing machines, the Janome 8077 and Singer XL-420. 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 them? Here I will try to answer them as simply as possible.
Table of Contents
Janome 8077 vs. Singer XL-420: Comparison in Features
Sewing Machine Types
The Janome 8077 is a computerized sewing machine, while the Singer XL-420 is a sewing and embroidery combo machine. Since the machine types decide they differ a lot in features, I won’t make a suggestion.
Choose wisely depends on your sewing goal and skill levels.
Janome 8077 vs. Singer XL-420 : Built-in Stitches
With Janome 8077, you get an attractive amount of stitches – 30 to be exact. The 30 stitches include standard stitches, decorative stitches, and buttonhole stitches. As for Singer XL-420 sewing machine, it contains 30. These stitches include standard and decorative stitches, which are similar to those found on the Janome 8077.
Weight
The Janome 8077 sewing machine weighs approximately 18.2 lbs, while the Singer XL-420 sewing machine comes with a weight of 25 lbs.
When you don’t have a specific spot in your home where your sewing machine belongs, the extra weight can become burdensome.
Start/Stop Button
Both the Janome 8077 and Singer XL-420 sewing machine come with a start/stop button. A start/stop button is an important accessibility feature. If you’re unable, for whatever reason, to use the foot pedal, a start/stop button allows you to run your sewing machine anyway. It’s also invaluable for making perfect one-step automatic buttonholes.
Speed Control Slider
Both Janome 8077 sewing machine and Singer XL-420 sewing machine have a speed control slider, which allows you to set the maximum speed you are comfortable with.
Automatic Needle Threader
Many sewing machines sold today come with an automatic threader function. This is essentially a lever that will guide the thread through the eye of your sewing needle for you so that you don’t have to do it yourself. Many sewists prefer to thread their own needles, but if you have difficulty performing this task, then a machine with an automatic needle threader might be very useful for you. Fortunately, these two sewing machines both come with automatic needle threader, allowing you to thread the machine with ease.
Drop-in Bobbin
The advantage of easy drop-in, top load bobbins is that you can readily see how much thread is left on the bobbin through the window. You do not have to remove the bobbin case to insert a new bobbin, and you do not have to remove the accessory tray from the free arm to change bobbins. Both the Janome 8077 sewing machine and the Singer XL-420 sewing machine come with this user-friendly feature.
Drop Feed
The most common type of feeding mechanism in a home sewing machine (and some industrial machines) is the drop feed, also known as the regular feed system. Both Janome 8077 and Singer XL-420 come equipped with a drop feed system, which grabs the fabric and moves it along through the machine.
Extra High Presser Foot Lifter
The extra-high presser foot lifter of the Janome 8077 and Singer XL-420 allows you to adjust the height, as needed for large sewing projects or multiple layers of thick materials.
| Janome 8077 | Singer XL-420 | |
| Product Image | |
|
| Sewing Machine Type | Computerized | Sewing and Embroidery Combo |
| Stitches | 30 | 30 |
| Buttonhole Styles | 6 one-step | 2 one-step |
| Start/Stop Button | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Memory | No | – |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes | Yes |
| Monogramming Font | No | Yes, 5 |
| Drop Feed | Yes | Yes |
| Free Arm | Yes | – |
| Working Light | Yes LED | Yes, 6 LEDs |
| Speed Control Slider | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 18.2 lbs | 25 lbs |
| Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | Yes | Yes |
| Snap-on Presser Foot | Yes | – |
| Automatic Thread Cutter | No | No |
| Automatic Needle Threader | Yes | Yes |
| Drop-in Bobbin | Yes | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | No | Yes |
| Stitch Selection | LCD and Push Button | Push Button |
| Adjustable Stitch Length/Width | Yes | – |
| Included Feet | Satin Stitch Foot F, Sliding Buttonhole Foot, Zig-Zag Foot | Embroidery Foot, All Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Buttonhole Foot with Underplate, Blind Hem Foot, Satin Stitch Foot, Button Sewing Foot |
| Dedicated Locking Stitch Button | Yes | – |
| Tension | Adjustable With Dial | Automatic Tension |
| Knee Lifter | No | Yes |
| Warranty | – | – |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Janome 8077 Video Review
Singer XL-420 Video Review
The Verdict
Both machines are neck and neck when it comes to performance. The stitch quality is very similar between the two machines. They are capable of handling heavy and delicate fabrics with ease. It is the stitch quality of these two machines that differentiates them from other machines in their segment. Based on the features listed above, we believe you will be able to make a decision on your own. The final decision is yours.
Q. Why use a bobbin on a sewing machine
A. In general, the bobbin is the thing that feeds the thread to stitch from the lower part of the machine. Its purpose is to hold the thread below the needle, and it is where the thread in which you stitch comes from.
Q. Why adjust tension on sewing machine
A. Sewing machine tension adjustment is controlled by devices that separately control the needle thread and the bobbin thread, putting varying amounts of tension (or strength) on the threads they control to form a strong, balanced stitch.
Q. How much electricity does a sewing machine use
A. A typical home sewing machine may be in the 100-watt range. One estimate for portable sewing machines says that you are paying about 0.013 cents per hour every time. For the day you may be spending about 10 cents.
Q. What type of maintenance do sewing machines need?
A. Today’s sewing machines usually require just a few basic steps to keep them in good working order. While the manual included with your machine will spell out the details, it’s important to regularly remove the throat plate and use a small, soft brush to remove thread, lint, and debris that might have become lodged inside the machine. Your machine may also require oiling to keep everything lubricated and running smoothly.
Q. Do you need a special sewing machine for leather?
A. No, although a heavy-duty machine will make it easier. However, any good-quality home sewing machine can handle leather with a few special accessories. You will need a Teflon presser foot, a needle designed for sewing leather, and heavy-duty thread.
Q. Why use a walking foot on a sewing machine
A. A walking foot helps move knit fabrics evenly so they don’t stretch out of shape. The walking foot eliminates the need for excessive pinning when working with slippery fabrics. That is especially useful because most of those slippery fabrics, such as satin, are easily damaged by pins.
