1. Introduction
With the improvement of productivity levels, embroidery quilting is gradually approaching everyone's life. For beginners, a single-head embroidery machine is a good start. It can satisfy your hobbies and help you to start your business. One of the famous are Baby Lock and Janome brand embroidery machines on the current market. For these two brands of single-head embroidery machine, we’d like to select the Baby Lock Valiant model and Janome MB-4S model. I will analyze these two models on this blog. Hope it can help you make your choice.
2. Overview of Baby Lock Valiant Embroidery Machine
Baby Lock is a well-known brand in the embroidery machine industry. That is one brand of Brother company, Valiant is a flagship model of the Baby Lock brand, mainly positioned in the mid-to-high-end market. The Valiant embroidery machine features ten-needle high speed, a generous embroidery area, wireless connectivity and a crosshair embroidery laser with precision accuracy. Its quick set-up and fast multi-needle embroidery enables you to embroider large multicolored designs with minimal thread changes and greatly increases productivity compared to traditional single-needle machines.
With 10 needles, The maximum embroidery speed can reach 1000SPM, which means the needle speed reaches 1000 stitches per minute. The weight reaches 94 lbs; can be supported steadily. Maintain the perfect presentation of embroidery works. Valiant also supports a variety of file formats such as:.pen, .pes, .phc, .dst it also performs quite well in automation, such as automatic Thread changing/automatic threading/automatic thread trimming; in addition, the 10.1” display screen allows you to operate more easily and enjoy the fun of embroidery.
3. Overview of Janome MB-4S Embroidery Machine
Janome MB-4S is a star model of Janome machine brand. Not the same as the normal sewing machines of Janome machine, the MB-4S model with differences designs. This four-needle machine can set up your embroidery and move on to other projects while the MB-4S gets it done. The MB-4S is built to work with most embroidery formats, including those used by industry professionals. It is compatible with industry-standard Tajima/Magnahoops, as well as the three available Janome hoops to further expand your creative opportunities.
Maximum embroidery range up to 9.4"" x 7.9""; meets the embroidery needs of different logo sizes, with only 4 stitches, the maximum embroidery speed can reach 800 stitches per minute (800spm); supports .jef+, .jef and .dst file format input, and there are also 50 included pre-set embroidery patterns, providing you with a wealth of embroidery patterns to choose from options for your embroidery patterns. There are also 10 fonts included, so you can edit different fonts for a different experience. Weighing only 56 lbs, it's compact enough to fit on any workbench, size reference: 26"" L x 17"" W x 25.5"" H; it doesn't take up too much space, so you can place your clothes, accessories, etc. more efficiently around the machine without looking crowded.
4.Comparison of Key Features and Specifications
Then I will introduce the detailed parameter comparison of these two models in detail, mainly from the aspects of basic functions, software functions, production embroidery efficiency, etc., so that you can compare the two models more intuitively.
4.1 Basic functions:
| Basic Features | Baby Lock Valiant | Janome MB-4S |
| Number of Needles | 10 | 4 |
| Number of Heads | 1 | 1 |
| Maximum Embroidery Speed | 1000spm | 800spm |
| Maximum Embroidery Area | 7-7/8"" x 14"" | 9.4"" x 7.9"" |
| Maximum Storage of Stitches | 500000 needles | 200000 needles |
| Machine Size | unclear | 26"" L x 17"" W x 25.5"" H |
| Machine Weight | 94 lbs | 56 lbs |
Both are single-head embroidery machine. Baby Lock Valiant has 6 more needles than Janome MB-4S, which means 6 more colors. It is more advantageous for embroidery patterns with complex colors. For Example, if the embroidery patterns has 8 colors, using Valiant don’t need to change the thread. The embroidery speed is 1.25 times faster than Janome MB-4S. Regarding Maximum storage of Stitches, Baby Lock Valiant has almost 2.5 times more stitches than Janome MB-4S; in the ""X"" axis direction, the embroidery range of Valiant is about 6"" longer than that of MB-4S, so it is advantageous for wider embroidery patterns; Janome MB-4S machine lighter than Baby Lock Valiant machine, easier to move. There is not much difference in machine size and the space occupied is basically the same.
4.2 Software Features
| Software Features | Baby Lock Valiant | Janome MB-4S |
| USB Input | Yes | Yes |
| Supported File Formats | .pen, .pes, .phc, .dst | .jef+, .jef and .dst |
| Number of Fonts | 41 | 10 |
| Number of Pre-set Embroidery Designs | 120 | 50 |
| Design Software | unclear | Janome Artistic Digitizer |
| Language Options | English / Español / Français / Hrvatski / Italiano / Magyar / Nederlands / Norsk / Polski / Português / Portug. (Bra) / Română / Slovenski / Slovenský / Suomi / Svenska / Türkçe / Čeština / Dansk / Deutsch | English, Japanese, French, Spanish, German, Dutch, Italian, Swedish, Finnish, Russian, Portuguese and Polish |
Baby Lock Valiant has 31 more pre-stored fonts than Janome MB-4S, giving users more choices. The Valiant supports more file formats. They all have their professional developed operating systems, making the operation smoothly. Baby Lock Valiant has more 70 pcs Pre-set Embroidery Designs than Janome MB-4S; Baby Lock Valiant supports 20 languages, 12 more than Janome MB-4S, which helps consumers in different countries and languages choose corresponding language operations and avoid instruction reading errors. In multilingual areas like Slovenski / Slovenský / Suomi / Svenska / Türkçe / Čeština , the Baby Lock Valiant is a better choice.
4.3 Features for Increasing Production Efficiency
| Features for Increasing Production Efficiency | Baby Lock Valiant | Janome MB-4S |
| Automatic Thread Changing | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Threading | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Thread Trimming | Yes | Yes |
| Embroidery Positioning Point | Yes | Yes |
| LCD Screen Size | 10.1"" | 5.7"" |
| Real-time Preview | Yes | unclear |
| Photo Embroidery | Yes | unclear |
| WiFi Connectivity | Yes | unclear |
| Automatic Memory Retention | unclear | unclear |
Baby Lock Valiant has stronger automation, automatic thread changing/threading/cutting; it can also be connected through WIFI. The screen size of Baby Lock Valiant is nearly 50% larger than that of Janome MB-4S, which is beneficial for older users or users with poor eyesight, it can operate more clearly and can display a sufficiently detailed operation interface.
4.4 Embroidery Production Stability Features
| Embroidery Production Stability Features | Baby Lock Valiant | Janome MB-4S |
| Bottom and Top Thread Break Detection | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Thread Tension Adjustment | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure | unclear | unclear |
Both Baby Lock Valiant and Janome MB-4S included function of Bottom and Top Thread Break Detection and Automatic Thread Tension Adjustment;
4.5 Accessories
| Accessories | Baby Lock Valiant | Janome MB-4S |
| Tubular Hoops Included | 7-7/8"" x 11-3/4"" (200mm x 300mm) 5-1/8"" x 7-1/8"" (130mm x 180mm) 4"" x 4"" (100mm x 100mm) 1-1/2"" x 2-3/8"" (40mm x 60mm) |
M1: 9.46” x 7.88” M2: 5” x 4.3” M3: 50mm x 50mm |
| Cap Attachment Included | Optional | Optional |
| Flat Embroidery Included | no | no |
| Others Included | • Accessory Case • Touch pen (stylus) • USB cable • Seam ripper • Prewound bobbins • Scissors • Metal bobbins • Tweezers • Screwdrivers• Spool caps • Spool • Cleaning brush • Oiler • Embroidery frame holder ""a"" • Embroidery frame holder ""e"" |
Hoop supporter Felt ring (large) Felt ring (small) Spool rest Thread guide bar Thread guide pole Setscrew (A) Setscrew (B) Setscrew (C) Power cord USB cable Instructional CD-ROM Instruction manual Warranty card |
| Tubular Hoops (Compatible) | SewTech / Durkee / Allied | SewTech / Durkee / Allied |
| Magnetic Hoops (Compatible) | MagnaHoop / MaggieFrame / Mighty Hoop | MagnaHoop / MaggieFrame / Mighty Hoop |
| Others (Compatible) | unclear | unclear |
| Laser Engraving Accessories | unclear | unclear |
| Extension Tables | Optional | Optional |
Baby Lock Valiant is equipped with a cap frame, while Janome MB-4S requires additional purchase. On Tubular hoops, Valiant is equipped with two more size than MB-4S, giving customers more choices. These two models can be used for Tubular brands such as SewTech / Durkee / Allied etc , and the Magnetic hoop of MagnaHoop / MaggieFrame / Mighty Hoop can also be used on these two models. Users using MagnaHoop to improved embroidery efficiency. Clamping the cloth fast and firmly.
4.6 Price and after-sales service
| Price Comparison | Baby Lock Valiant | Janome MB-4S |
| Price Range | USD5250~USD11999 | USD5499~USD7999 |
| Installment Payment Policy | NO | NO |
| Convenience of Training/Maintenance/After-sales Service | Baby Lock Valiant | Janome MB-4S |
| User Manual | Yes | Yes |
| Online Training Videos | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty Terms | Yes | Yes |
According to the price range analysis of the official website and dealers, the price of Janome MB-4S is 25% cheaper than Baby Lock Valiant, both Baby Lock Valiant and Janome MB-4S model has great After-sales Service.
5.User Reviews
5.1 Customer Reviews for Baby Lock Valiant
On PatternReview, a user named tericloth mentioned, ""I have this machine too, and love that I can transfer designs to it wirelessly"" (commented on 5/24/23).
Another user, Mufffet, on the same platform said, ""Pretty machine! Yes, embroidery is fun. I don't do much, but you will have some fun with it when you want to. :) Yes, when we can take a break and enjoy our hobbies, it is a lift to the spirit for sure."" (commented on 5/22/23).
5.2 Customer Reviews for Janome MB-4S
""Excellent customer service. Very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable staff. Highly recommend coming here if you are serious about purchasing a good machine. They back everything they sell.""
Jim S. from poconosewandvac shop, 10.2022
“Great Customer service, well beyond what is pretty common these days. That was the deciding factor in placing my order with your company, even tho there were other companies who were very close in price.
The item was well packaged and delivered promptly. No delays which was appreciated, as a new sewing machine I received for Christmas was too snug a fit for my smaller Tutto which has served me well for several years and a friend was delighted to purchase from me which helped offset my purchase. These cases are so very well made and with replacement parts easily available, to me makes this my choice of bag when you are dealing with very expensive, large heavy machines as an owner you want to know your investment is well protected. Happy, happy repeat product purchased.” January 17, 2024 by Patti D. (United States) at sewingmachinesplus.
“I love your products. I have bought a few machines from you and everyone of them are in perfect condition and run wonderfully. Customer service is excellent too!” January 17, 2024 by WENDY H. (United States) at sewingmachinesplus.
To summarize the evaluation, I spent 48 hours sorting out 80+ reviews, and more than 85% of them were positive reviews. The negative reviews are almost all about troubles caused by not being proficient in operating the machine. Basically, the problems were solved after carefully studying the operation manual.
6. Purchasing suggestions.
6.1 For users with a limited budget
Users with a limited budget these days, but who still need a single-head embroidery machine, are recommended to choose Janome MB-4S; the price is cheaper, which is good for your capital turnover, but it can also provide relatively excellent embroidery.
6.2 For users who pursue a high-end embroidery experience
If you are targeting a high-end embroidery experience, or your customer base requires high-quality embroidery products, then I will not hesitate to recommend you choose the Baby Lock Valiant. Whether it is stability or high-quality embroidery, this model occupies the leading position. Firm advantage.
6.3 Users who have needs/preferences for specific embroidery functions
If you have an embroidery shop that customizes embroidery products for your customers, I recommend the Baby Lock Valiant. Although it is a bit expensive, this model runs stably and can avoid thread breakage, tangles, and many other embroidery defects. You know we all don’t want to have problems with a piece of clothing due to a malfunction of the embroidery machine. Then the piece of clothing will be scrapped, adding unnecessary costs to you. Therefore, it is necessary for commercial users to choose Baby Lock Valiant in the early stage. I believe that the corresponding investment will bring corresponding returns.
7. Compatible Magna Hoop Sizes
MagnaHoop is the most popular magnetic embroidery hoop brand, which has the characteristics of fast and tight cloth clamping without manual adjustment. With this magnetic hoop, you can quickly and firmly clamp your fabrics or clothes, saving you time and labor cost.
MagnaHoop has a stronger magnet than Mightyhoop and can be used almost 35 times more than Mightyhoop in life cycle，MagnaHoop compatible for Baby Lock Valiant or Janome MB-4S as the following sizes:
MagnaHoop has a stronger magnet than Mightyhoop and can be used almost 35 times more than Mightyhoop in life cycle，MagnaHoop compatible for Brother PRS100 or Janome MB-4S as the following sizes:
8. FAQ:
Q1: What are the key differences between Baby Lock Valiant and Janome MB-4S embroidery machines?
A: Embroidery quality, price.
Q2: Which machine is better for large-scale embroidery projects?
A: Baby Lock Valiant
Q3: Does the Baby Lock Valiant or Janome MB-4S have more built-in designs?
A: Baby Lock Valiant and Janome MB-4S models have the similarities built-in designs as 50.
Q4: Which machine has a larger embroidery area?
A: Baby Lock Valiant (7-7/8"" x 14"")
Q5: How fast can the Baby Lock Valiant embroidery machine stitch compared to the Janome MB-4S embroidery machine?
A: Baby Lock Valiant(1000spm) is 1.25 times than Janome MB-4S(800spm).
Q6: Who has better stitching quality, Baby Lock Valiant or Janome MB-4S?
A: Baby Lock Valiant, based on you choosing nice embroidery thread.
Q7: What types of embroidery designs can be created with the Baby Lock Valiant?
A: .pen, .pes, .phc, .dst
Q8: What types of embroidery designs can be created with the Janome MB-4S?
A: .jef+, .jef and .dst
Q9: What is the price range for the Baby Lock Valiant?
A: USD5250~USD11999
Q10: What is the price range for the Janome MB-4S?
A: USD5499~USD7999
Q11: Where can I buy the Baby Lock Valiant embroidery machine?
A: At Baby Lock official website or their distributors.
Q12: Where can I buy the Janome MB-4S embroidery machine?
A: At Janome official website or their distributors.
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