94.9 The C30 is an entry level computerized Janome sewing machine. But don’t be fooled. This is still a very capable machine, it simply doesn’t have all the bells and whistles you may find on more expensive units. Consumer ratings for the C30 are excellent and owners like that it is very easy to setup and operate. They also like that it is lightweight and portable (has a built-in handle). In addition, the C30 has a one handed needle threader which owners absolutely love. There are very few complaints about this machine, although several folks wish it had a higher quality soft cover.
We found a total of 14 owner ratings for the C30 and these can be seen in the table below. To the extent possible, we’ve removed all the “free product reviews” from our average rating. While people state that a free machine does not affect their rating, we err on the side of caution. The average score for the unit is 94.9 out of 100 which is excellent. However, we would have preferred to see a larger sample size in order to feel more confident about the figure. You can see other sewing machine scores in our
Source | Consumer Rating | # Ratings |
Amazon.com | 4.6 stars out of 5 | 5 |
Amazon.ca | 4.8 stars out of 5 | 8 |
Overstock | 5 stars out of 5 | 1 |
A thorough review of owner comments and insights has provided the following pros & cons:
- Easy to setup and use
- Quiet
- Lightweight and portable
- Very detailed manual
- Fast sewing speed
- Material feeds smoothly
- Free arm capable
- Bright LED light
- Computerized screen for easy stitch selection
- Soft cover is not high quality
- May struggle on really thick materials
- Some folks feel that you cannot make a very long stitch
Almost all owners report that the C30 is easy to setup and very easy to use. Some say it is a great fit for a beginner or novice sewist. Folks like the jam-proof top drop-in bobbin, the one handed needle threader, and the easy stitch selection interface.



- 30 built-in stitches (basic, fashion, quilting, knit, home decor, overcast, decorative, buttonhole)
- One-step memory buttonhole
- Adjustable stitch width and length
- Max stitch length = 4mm
- Max stitch width = 5mm
- LED screen with navigation keys
- Needle threader
- 4 piece feed dogs
- Drop feed capable (for free motion sewing)
- Free arm
- Max sewing speed = 820 stitches per minute
- Jam proof top drop-in bobbin
- Locking stitch button
- Reverse button
- Thread tension dial (manual)
- Auto-declutch bobbin winder
- Needle up/down button
- Extra high presser foot lift
- Snap on presser feet
- Built-in thread cutter
Following is a chart showing the 30 built-in stitches.

These are also printed on the front of the machine for handy reference.
The C30 weighs 11 lbs which makes it one of the lighter machines we’ve investigated. It also has a built-in carry handle which helps with portability (great for taking to classes for example). Part of the light weight may be due to the aluminum interior frame. You can see a list of the top rated portable sewing machine here: Portable Sewing Machines
The C30 comes with a host of accessories including four presser feet: satin stitch foot, zipper foot, zigzag foot, and sliding one-step buttonhole foot. You also get both small and large spool holders, class 15 bobbins, a screwdriver, a needle set, a lint brush, and a seam ripper. In addition, a foot control, a power cable, an instruction manual, a dust cover, and a quick start guide are provided.


The C30 carries a 25 year limited warranty, but do not be fooled into thinking this warranty covers the whole sewing machine. It actually breaks down into the following:
• 5 Years on Electrical Parts
• 1 Year Labor
In our experience Janome sewing machine manuals are generally excellent and this one is no exception. If you are in the market for a Janome machine just browsing the unit’s manual can be helpful as there are good pictures and plenty of detail. You can view a copy of the manual here: Janome C30 Sewing Machine Manual