If you have detailed projects to sew, you need a high-caliber sewing machine for the job. Finding one that offers all the features you need can be extremely difficult. Janome has created two models, the Skyline S3 and the Skyline S5, that offer excellent features that will solve this problem. We are going to compare them based on stitches, needle positions, and stitch adjustments. We will base our comparison on user skills as well as project needs.
Janome Skyline S3
The Janome Skyline S3 offers 120 built-in stitches along with 7 one-step buttonholes and one alphabet. For ease of use, each stitch is listed inside the machine’s top cover, and you simply select the stitch you want on the dial pad.
Most sewing machine manufacturers understand that the lighting in your home is not going to be ideal for your project, which is why the majority of machines come with built-in LED lights. The Skyline S3 goes a step further by featuring four LED lights that will fully light up your entire work area, ensuring that you have a complete line of sight to every side of your project.
The machine features both an automatic thread cutter and automatic tension control. While you are working in A mode, the machine will automatically adjust the tension based on the type of material you are sewing. If you’d rather adjust it manually, that is an option as well.
There are 71 unique needle positions. The width of your stitches can be adjusted up to 7 mm while the stitch length can be adjusted up to 5 mm.
The Skyline S3 features Janome’s Superior Plus Feed Dog System, which has 7-piece feed teeth. The feed system rotates in a box feed system instead of an elliptical rotation. What this means is that all the teeth move up at the same time and then down at the same time. This system allows for a more controlled feed.
You can control how hard the presser foot pushes down on the feed teeth with the machine’s pressure adjustment feature. The presser foot also has an extra-high lift that allows you to work with thicker fabrics.
Janome Skyline S5
The Janome Skyline S5 features 170 built-in stitches as well as 91 needle positions so you’ll never need another piece of equipment to finish a project again. Stitch width can be adjusted up to 9 mm.
When compared to the Skyline S3, the Skyline S5 offers more built-in stitches, more needle positions, and greater variability when it comes to stitching width. Both sewing machines feature a seven-piece feed dog system and an automatic thread tension system.
The Skyline S5 10 buttonhole stitch options. There is a drop feed for ease of use as well as a locking stitch button.
For added control over your sewing, the machine offers foot pressure adjustments and a knee lift. Additionally, it features last stitch and needle position recalls so that you can pick up where you left off when you pause during a sewing project. This is extremely helpful so that you do not have to try to remember what stitch you were using out of 170.
Despite all of the advanced features, the Skyline S5 does not feature automatic threading. However, it does feature an automatic thread cutter.
You won’t have to worry about working in a dark room as this sewing machine comes equipped with six LED lights. You’ll be able to see every stitch perfectly.
On the front right panel of the machine is a digital screen which is where you will make most of your selections such as needle position, length of your stitches, and stitch type. This user interface is easy to read and responds easily to your touch.
The machine also has an auto declutch bobbin winder as well as a cutter for bobbin thread. Conveniently located on the left side of the unit are the buttons that allow you to control the machine’s functions. These buttons include controls for powering the machine, controlling the needle’s height, and cutting the thread. With easy access to these controls, you will have no problem operating this sewing machine.
Our Recommendation
Clearly, both sewing machines are of the highest quality. The Skyline S3 offers 120 built-in stitches, 71 unique needle positions, and width adjustments up to 7 mm. We recommend this sewing machine for extreme enthusiasts as well as professionals.
The Skyline S5, on the other hand, offers 170 built-in stitches, 91 unique needle positions, and width adjustments up to 9 mm. We recommend this sewing machine for professionals.
Click here to purchase Janome Skyline S3 on Amazon.com
Click here to purchase Janome Skyline S5 on Amazon.com