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Janome MB-4S vs. MB-7: Which Multi-Needle Embroidery Machine Offers Better Efficiency?

Within the domain of multi-head embroidery systems, the Janome MB-4S and MB-7 are prominent selections, each presenting distinct functionalities for small-scale enterprises and dedicated enthusiasts. As key players in the embroidery process, your productivity is a vital consideration – the capacity to swiftly finalize projects with few disruptions. Comprehending the subtle differences in how these two machines manage operations like thread alterations, sewing velocity, and general operational flow is crucial. It underscores the necessity of your expertise in deciding which model provides enhanced productivity for your particular embroidery requirements. This comparative analysis will explore the attributes of the Janome MB-4S and MB-7, highlighting their effectiveness across diverse elements of the embroidery procedure and reinforcing your integral role in the industry.


Janome MB-7 World’s First Home-based 7-needle Embroidery Machine

The Janome MB-7 is a 7-needle embroidery machine.  In case you are unfamiliar with the concept of a multi-needle machine –  it’s an embroidery machine that can be threaded with several spools at one time. Therefore, as the machine is stitching out a design, it can just move from head to head. No stopping and starting between colors. The machine moves to the next needle and starts stitching out that color. This innovative machine, designed with user-friendliness in mind, is built to work with embroidery formats used by industry professionals such as .jef+, .jef, and .dst. The possibilities are endless, with 50 built-in embroidery designs and 10 fonts for monogramming, a USB port to easily import designs, and a maximum speed of 800 SPM. All embroidery operations are noticeably faster and smoother on the MB-7. You will be impressed with your project’s professional-finished results, all achieved with ease.



Features of Janome MB-7

The Janome MB-7 comes with some of the greater features it got in any other embroidery machine.

7-needle Embroidery Machine

The 7-needle head in an embroidery machine itself is a great invention in it to make the embroidery related work seamless.

6 White LED Lamps

6 white LED Lights to illuminate your project and make threading easy.


2 and 3-letter Monogramming Function

A two-letter monogram can combine first and last initials or two last names, while a three-letter monogram traditionally uses the first, middle, and last initials.

Embroidery Format Capability

Reads all professional embroidery formats such as: .jef+, .jef and .dst.

Auto Return Post Thread Break

The auto return post thread break attribute assures that the embroidery machine continues stitching from where a thread breaks. This functionality underrated rest and lowers the risk of errors in the design, allowing for a seamless workflow.


Stitch-out Time Indicator

This indicator displays the estimated time to complete the embroidery project, allowing users to manage their time effectively.

5.7" Remote Computer Screen (RCS)

Featuring a large 5.7-inch remote computer screen, the MB-7 provides an intuitive interface for easy navigation and design selection. The clear display lets users preview designs and adjust settings comfortably, enhancing the overall user experience.

50 Built-in Designs

This machine arrives with 50 built-in embroidery designs, equipping users with various choices of patterns right out of the box.

Maximum Embroidery Size

With a maximum embroidery area of 9.4″ x 7.9″, the Janome MB 7 seven-needle embroidery machine allows for larger designs and more complex projects.

Programmable Jump Thread Trimming

The programmable jump thread trimming element lets users set the machine to automatically cut threads between color changes or jumps in the design.

Adjustable Hoop Positioning

Offers flexibility in positioning the hoop, enabling precise alignment and adjustment for intricate designs.

Stitch Counter

Keeps track of the total number of stitches concluded, enabling users to observe improvement and plan for maintenance.

Design Transfer via USB

USB port for easy transfers of embroidery designs onto the embroidery machine. (If you are considering buying a used multi-needle embroidery machine, some older models still have floppy discs).

Embroidery Speed

It puffs a maximum speed of 800 stitches per minute, allowing users to complete projects quickly without compromising quality. This high-speed ability is mainly useful for commercial settings.

Flexible Stitch Traveling

Allows users to move the stitching position freely, facilitating adjustments and enabling creative design modifications without re-hooping.

Upper Thread & Presser Foot Sensors

The upper thread and presser foot sensors are required for supporting optimal stitching needs. The upper thread sensor cautions users when the thread breaks or runs out, while the presser foot sensor ensures the accurate position before starting, preventing fabric or machine damage.


Jumbo Bobbin

The Janome MB-7 utilizes jumbo bobbins that are 1.4 times larger than standard bobbins, resulting in fewer interruptions for bobbin changes during long embroidery sessions. This feature enhances productivity and allows users to focus more on their creative process than maintenance.


10 Fonts for Monogramming

The MB-7 includes 10 monogramming fonts, ideal for personalizing articles with names, initials, or special messages. This feature is ideal for creating custom gifts, home décor, or branded merchandise, adding a personal touch to any project.


JANOME MB-4S: Compact Embroidery Machine

JANOME MB-4S is a head, four-needle, compact embroidery machine with a speed of 800 stitches per minute. The Janome MB-4S is a highly regarded multi-needle embroidery machine designed for professional and home use. It’s part of Janome’s line of industrial-style machines, offering advanced features that make it suitable for business owners or serious hobbyists looking to expand their embroidery capabilities.



Janome MB-4S Features

  1. Fit With Different Hoops

  2. Embroidery Patterns

  3. Touch Panel Size

  4. New & Faster Processor

  5. Embroidery Field

  6. Built-in Embroidery Sensor

  7. Embroidery For Short Services

Fit with Different Hoops

Compatible with Tajima hoops. Industrial hoops handle (heavy-duty), hoop protection from needle hit. It can be embroidered slowly (for example, using metallic threads).

Embroidery Patterns

Edition of embroidery patterns allows calibration, rotation of every degree, join, mirror reflection, copy, etc.

Embroidery Services For Short Series

It is perfect for short series productions in embroidery services, shops, on-occasion events, advertising agencies, designer studios, and working clothes producers. The machine has a new, much faster processor, which speeds up its work. Ideal for scrapbooking - a technique that allows the decoration of photos, postcards, calendars, etc.

Touch Panel Size

It's very simple to use. Thanks to the touch control panel (size 117,2 mm x 86,4 mm), all functions are at hand, allowing for the exact placement of embroidery on the hoop.


New, faster processor for Enhanced Embroidery

The size of the bottom bobbin has been enhanced by up to 40% (compared to the usual embroidery), which allows you to do more embroidery on one bobbin.

You may also display the instruction films on the panel (help function).


Embroidery Field

Double lighting of the embroidery field gives better control of the embroidery.

Its compact size and lightweight (just 20.5 kg) make it easy to transport, making it perfect for occasional events (fairs, sports competitions on location).

Built-in Embroidery Sensor

You don't need to worry about skipping stitches because the built-in sensor informs you about breaking threads and automatically returns you to the breaking point. It is possible to work directly with the computer or without, and the edition and processing of embroidery are created on the panel.

Janome MB-4S Other Features

The machine is equipped with a touch control panel, automatic change of the 4 threads, sensor informing of breaking upper thread with automatic return to the breaking point, independent system bobbin winder and automatic thread trimmer.

JANOME MB-4S has 10 built-in lettering fonts, 50 ready-for-choose patterns, three kinds of hoops [240x200 mm, 126x110 mm, 50x50 mm], and a unique thread stand for nine big spools. It merges the features of an efficient industrial machine with the pleasure of comfortable work typical for small-size embroidery machines.

Comparisons Of Both Models

When comparing the Janome MB-7 and the Janome MB-4S, efficiency and performance are key factors. Here's how they stack up against each other based on their features:



Janome MB-4S

Janome MB-7

Number of Needles and Embroidery Efficiency

The MB-4S has four needles, which can handle fewer colour changes simultaneously than the MB-7. However, it still offers automatic thread changes, making the process easier, though less efficient than the MB-7 when dealing with multi-colour designs.

This machine has seven needles and can load seven different thread colours, making it highly efficient for projects that require multiple colours. The transition between colours is seamless, as the machine switches between needles without stopping, saving significant time. This makes it perfect for large or commercial projects where multiple colour changes are frequent.

Winner

Janome MB-7 (The 7-needle system significantly improves overall efficiency for larger and multi-colour designs.)




Janome MB-4S

Janome MB-7

Embroidery Speed

The MB-4S also reaches a speed of 800 SPM, so in terms of raw stitching speed, both machines are on equal footing.

Operates at a maximum speed of 800 stitches per minute (SPM), which is relatively standard for multi-needle embroidery machines. It delivers good speed for both small and large designs.

Winner

Tie (Both machines have the same speed, so there is no clear advantage here.)




Janome MB-4S

Janome MB-7

Maximum Embroidery Area

The MB-4S has a slightly smaller embroidery field at 240mm x 200mm (9.4" x 7.9"), which is still decent for most projects but not as spacious as the MB-7.

The MB-7 offers a max. embroidery area of 9.4" x 7.5", which is larger than the MB-4S, allowing for larger designs and more complex projects.

Winner

Janome MB-7 (The larger embroidery area gives it a slight edge regarding versatility for larger projects, as it allows for more complex and detailed designs.)



Janome MB-4S

Janome MB-7

User-Friendliness and Features

The MB-4S is also user-friendly, equipped with a touch control panel and help function (instruction films on the screen). However, its control panel size (117.2mm x 86.4mm) is smaller than the MB-7's, and it lacks some of the more advanced features found in the MB-7, like the stitch-out time indicator and adjustable hoop positioning.

The MB-7 has a 5.7" remote computer screen with intuitive controls and features like auto-return post-thread break, stitch-out time indicator, and programmable jump thread trimming, all of which enhance workflow and reduce the chances of mistakes. It also has 10 fonts for monogramming, 50 built-in designs, and the ability to handleJEF, JEF+, and DST formats.

Winner

Janome MB-7 (The MB-7 offers more advanced features, such as the stitch-out time indicator and adjustable hoop positioning, making it more versatile and efficient for professional use.)



Janome MB-4S

Janome MB-7

Machine Size and Portability

At just 20.5 kg (approximately 45 lbs), the MB-4S is lighter and more compact, making it easier to transport. It is advantageous if portability is essential for events or mobile business setups.

At 50 lbs and large in dimensions, the MB-7 is a relatively bulky machine. It's suited for more stationary use in a dedicated workspace.

Winner

Janome MB-4S (Its lighter weight and compact design make it more portable.)



Janome MB-4S

Janome MB-7

Bobbin Size and Thread Handling

The MB-4S has an enhanced bottom bobbin that is 40% larger than the standard size. This allows for more stitching before needing a bobbin change, which also improves efficiency during long runs.

The MB-7 uses a jumbo bobbin, which is 1.4 times larger than a standard bobbin. This reduces the frequency of bobbin changes during long embroidery sessions and boosts efficiency.

Winner

Tie (Both machines offer larger bobbins, which improves productivity by reducing downtime for bobbin changes.)



Janome MB-4S

Janome MB-7

Versatility and Customization

While it offers basic customization options like pattern rotation and mirroring, it lacks the flexibility found in the MB-7 regarding hoop positioning and larger design capabilities, which are more advanced customization features.

This machine suggests more flexibility with features like adjustable hoop positioning, a larger embroidery area, and more built-in designs, which allow for greater customization and complexity in projects.

Winner

MB-7 (For users prioritizing versatility and the ability to undertake a wider range of complex and customized embroidery projects, the Janome MB-7 is the clear winner.)


Choose According To Needs:

If you're looking for a more efficient machine with greater automation, versatility, and capacity for more significant, multi-colour designs, the Janome MB-7 is a clear choice. It excels in the number of needles, the embroidery area, and advanced features. However, if you need a compact, portable machine for smaller or occasional use, the Janome MB-4S might be a better option. It's easier to transport and still offers solid performance and a good set of features. Ultimately, the Janome MB-7 is more efficient for professional, high-volume embroidery projects, while the MB-4S suits smaller or mobile setups. Perfect for businesses producing smaller quantities of items with fewer color changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary difference between the Janome MB-4S and MB-7?

Needles: The MB-4S has 4 needles, while the MB-7 has 7 needles. This means the MB-7 allows for more colours to be used in one project without manually changing threads.

Embroidery Area: The embroidery area on the MB-7 is slightly larger, providing more room for larger designs. The MB-4S has a 9.1” x 7.9” work area, while the MB-7 has a 9.4” x 7.9” area.

Which one is better for larger commercial projects?

MB-7 is generally better for larger commercial projects due to its 7 needles, which allow you to embroider more complex, multi-coloured designs without stopping and changing threads as frequently.

Are both machines capable of multi-colour embroidery?

Yes, both the MB-4S and MB-7 can do multi-colour embroidery. Still, the MB-7 has the advantage of having 7 needles, making it more efficient for multi-colour designs as you can work with more colours simultaneously.

Which machine has better overall value?

The MB-4S is generally considered a better value for those just starting or those with more straightforward embroidery needs. If you need to produce more complex, multi-colour designs regularly, the MB-7 may offer better value in the long run, especially for a growing business.

Is the warranty the same for both machines?

Yes, both the MB-4S and MB-7 typically come with a 25-year warranty on the parts, though the specifics of coverage can vary depending on the region and retailer.



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#Embroidery Digitizing Software

Liza Charles

Vector Artist

Liza Charles is a professional vector artist and embroidery digitizing expert with over a decade of experience. Known for her award-winning designs, she crafts unique applique creations and shares valuable industry tips through her blog at Digitizing USA.