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Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q review was originally written in 2012, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternatives such as Brother CS5055, Elnita EC30, and Brother CP60X.
Any Husqvarna/Viking sewing machine is expected to be an outstanding piece of equipment, and the Husqvarna/Viking H Class 100Q, which I got the wonderful opportunity to review, is no exception.
This machine is unique in that it is capable of producing professional results and is at the same time a great machine for the person who is brand new to the world of home sewing. Regardless of the skill level, anyone who has an opportunity to work on this machine will be pleased with its features and its performance.
Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q Overview
Viking Class H by Husqvarna is a beginner friendly mechanical sewing machine that comes with 20 utility and decorative stitches, 2 one step buttonholes, start stop buttons, an automatic thread cutter, etc., and some more standard features. This model is aimed at learners and occasional users looking for a pocket friendly sewing machine that would last adequately long. This is one of Husqvarna’s budget bestsellers packed with all the basic features expected at this price range.
The unique star motif is definitely an eye catcher. When you see a sewing machine emblazoned with stars, you immediately want to know more about it.
The touchpad, LCD screen, start/stop, fix and reverse buttons are all clearly marked and easy to get to when they are needed.
The easy to follow threading guide and the top winding drop in bobbin with its see through cover are features that make the sewing experience even more efficient and enjoyable.
We could not help but notice the manual upper thread tension dial. With so many machines available with automatic tension adjustment, we were a bit skeptical about a computerized sewing machine on which we were required to adjust the tension for ourselves.
What are some alternatives for Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q?
The Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q is one of many computerized sewing machines available on the market. Here are some alternatives that we highly recommend.
Priced under $200, the Brother CS5055 computerized sewing machine is a versatile powerhouse catering to both novices and seasoned enthusiasts. Boasting 60 unique built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and heirloom functions, it allows for creative embellishments. The improved needle threader ensures hassle-free threading, complemented by a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin for smooth operation. The durable metal frame and fixed needle bar contribute to cleaner stitching and even lines, handling diverse projects with ease. With a generous needle-to-arm workspace, users can tackle larger projects effortlessly. The CS5055, equipped with an LCD display and user-friendly features, transforms garments into personalized fashion statements, making it an ideal investment for sewing aficionados.
- Affordable
- More features than mechanical machines on this list so far
- Light-weight at around 10 lbs
- You can't order parts for this machine. You have to visit authorized repair centers
The Elnita EC30 Computerized Sewing Machine is a basic user-friendly machine that is perfect for sewers of all levels. With 30 built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, stretch, and buttonhole stitches, this machine offers a wide range of options for all types of sewing projects. The EC30 also features a large LCD display screen, which allows for easy navigation and access to a wide range of stitch options and settings. With a maximum sewing speed of 820 stitches per minute, the Elnita EC30 is a powerful machine that can handle even the most demanding sewing projects with ease. The machine also features a built-in needle threader and a drop-in bobbin system for easy use. Additionally, the EC30 comes with a range of accessories, including a hard cover, seven presser feet, and a wide extension table that provides ample space for larger projects. With its advanced features and high-quality construction, the Elnita EC30 Computerized Sewing Machine is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile machine that can handle a wide range of sewing tasks.
Discover the Brother CP60X Computerized Sewing Machine, a compact powerhouse with 60 unique built-in stitches, including decorative and heirloom functions, along with 7 auto-size buttonholes. The 2-step automatic needle threader simplifies the threading process, ensuring hassle-free stitching. The durable metal frame construction allows the CP60X to tackle diverse projects, from thick denim to heavy quilts. With a fixed needle bar for cleaner stitching, easy stitch selection, LCD screen, and a range of accessories, this sewing machine offers versatility and convenience. Experience effortless sewing on various fabrics with advanced features like drop feed dogs and free-arm capability.
What are the features on Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q?
The numerous features of the Husqvarna/Viking H Class 100Q were specifically chosen to enhance the sewing experience.
These features include:
- 20 utility, decorative and quilting stitches
- 2 one step buttonholes
- Start/stop button
- Needle up/down button
- Thread cutter
- Reverse stitch button
- Drop feed
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Adjustable needle position
Working on the Husqvarna/Viking H Class 100Q
The Husqvarna/Viking H Class 100Q operates equally with either the start/stop button or the foot pedal.
The needle can be programmed to stop in the up or down position; and the built in needle threader makes getting ready to sew a breeze.
At first, we considered the manual tension adjustment dial to be a drawback. After all, plenty of today’s sewing machines feature automatic tension adjustment.
We were pleased to discover, however, that adjusting the tension was not only uncomplicated, it was downright easy. So was threading, winding the drop in bobbin and inserting it.
Not only does the Husqvarna/Viking come with a clearly diagrammed threading guide, it also has a graphic on the machine bed that shows exactly how to insert and thread the bobbin.
This, combined with a convenient seam guide etched onto the needle plate is a major asset for beginners.
The accessories are stored in an on-board case that slides off to expose the functional free arm, making it possible to sew children’s clothes, cuffs and sleeve hems with ease.
The presser foot pressure is adjusted by turning a dial positioned atop the machine. We were intrigued by a button marked ‘fix.’
Imagine our delight when we discovered that the fix button is used to stop instantly and automatically tie off ends… a great advantage when sewing decorative stitches.
For this review of the Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q sewing machine, we tested several utility and decorative stitches.
Selecting stitch options was achieved by first touching a button to the right of the row where the desired stitch is located and toggling though the row until the orange light next to the stitch you want is illuminated.
The stitch number then appears on the LCD screen and we were ready to go.
Adjusting stitch length and width is accomplished by manipulating the buttons immediately beneath the LCD screen and above the stitch selection pad. Each one of the stitches we tested was clean, crisp and precise.
Which fabrics work on the Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Upholstery |
What accessories come with the Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q?
As we looked over the accessories that are included as standard items sold with the H Class 100Q machine, we were pleased to discover a full compliment of accessories with the user’s satisfaction in mind.
The Husqvarna/Viking H Class 100Q comes with the following standard accessories:
- 6 presser feet
- Buttonhole
- Zipper
- Zigzag
- Button
- Darning
- Quilting
- 3 bobbins
- Screwdriver
- seam ripper
- needles
- quilting guide
- hard cover
- spool cap
- spool pin
How to maintain the Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Summary: Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q Review
Beyond a shadow of a doubt, the Husqvarna/Viking H Class 100Q is one of the best sewing and quilting machines for beginners on the market. It is easy to thread, easy to maneuver, easy to operate and easy to care for.
The hard cover makes the H Class 100Q easy to transport, making it possible to take this sewing machine to class, travel to college or accompany users on vacation.
This is an excellent sewing machine for the home sewer who likes to sew on the go. It weighs only 15 pounds, but performs like a machine that is a lot heavier and larger.
The stitch selection may seem limited to some, but 20 stitch options, including two one step buttonholes – rectangle and keyhole – are plenty for the home sewer who is more focused on clothing construction and making accessories, sewing gifts for friends and family members and creating one of a kind home décor items.
The ease of operating the H Class 100Q makes it an excellent choice for the person who is just learning to sew.
It is also a great addition to the sewing room of an intermediate or advanced home sewer. Some sewing machines designed for use by students are so basic that the advanced home sewer is bored.
That is not the case with this one, however. The Husqvarna/Viking H Class 100Q has so many great features that any home sewer, regardless of skill level, could appreciate its styling.
The adjustable speed slider is especially useful because the more advanced sewer could set it at the higher speed settings, while beginners can benefit from working at the slower speeds until they become comfortable with working on the H Class 100Q machine.
Lastly on my review, the affordable Manufacturer’s Suggest Retail Price of $499 makes the Husqvarna/Viking H Class 100Q an excellent choice for the advanced or intermediate home sewer as well as the beginner.
It is so reasonably priced that one is temped to wonder if someone made a mistake with the pricing.
Rest assured. There is no mistake in the pricing. This functional, flexible, portable dynamo is everything it claims to be, and that includes affordable.
Whether on the go or permanently stationed in the sewing room, the Husqvarna/Viking H Class 100Q certainly deserves more than just a passing glance.
We strongly urge anyone who is in the market for a computerized sewing machine that can go anywhere, and is designed for sewers of all skill levels to take a long, hard look at the Husqvarna/Viking H Class 100Q.
This versatile sewing and quilting machine is well worth the time it takes to try it out before making a final selection.
Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q Review
Summary
The Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for quilters. It has 100 built-in stitches, including basic utility stitches, decorative stitches, and quilting stitches. The machine also has a number of features that make it easy to use for quilting, such as a needle threader, a top-loading bobbin, and a free arm. The Husqvarna Viking H Class 100Q is also a good value for the price, making it a great option for those who are looking for a machine that is easy to use for quilting without breaking the bank.
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Happy Stitching.
I purchased this machine recently. I was told that my old Viking bobbins would work in this new machine (I have tons). But they do not. I’m trying to find a good price for bobbins and refuse to pay $7 for 10 bobbins. I found a site on-line that sells a “Class 15” bobbin that looks like it would work. I emailed Viking to ask them if these would work in my machine, but they never responded to my email. Does anyone know if a “Class 15” bobbin would work in my machine? Thanks
Yes it takes a class 15 but sometimes the cheaper ones don’t work as well
Try Nancy’s Notions.com. They have bobbins to fit most any machine, and very economical.
Hi, Frances –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
According to my sources at Ace Sewing and Vacuum Center, you can use PLASTIC class 15 bobbins with your Viking H Class 100Q. Metal bobbins will not work with this machine, but if you get the plastic variety, you should have no problem whatsoever.
Happy Stitching.
THANKS!
Hi! I bought this machine recently and it’s very nice. I went to get a foot to use for quilting which I am just learning and doing for charity. I was floored when I was told the cost of a presser foot that would work was $122.00!!! I can’t believe it. Does anyone have an alternative for this?
mb
There are many that are less expensive. I suggest researching that Viking says to use, their price, then try e-bay.
I have been quilting on this machine for about 2 years now and love it. It is very easy to travel with.
A complaint that I have about the hard cover is that it rests on the machine with these pads (I think it is styrofoam? maybe?). When you loosen the presser foot a knob rises on the top of the machine – well I put the cover on after using the machine like this and couldn’t figure out why the cover wasn’t closing properly. I ended up with a big dent in the pad. Now I try to lower every time before I put the cover on, which I find a little annoying.
Someone else commented on bobbins – it uses plastic bobbins. I see no use in buying their specific bobbins. I bought some bobbins from Joann fabric for less and they work great.
I love the piecing foot and the clear foot they sell to go with the machine. There are other feet that are also on my wish list.
I really like the press button start, threader, thread cutter, fix, and all the other accessories! I would highly recommend.
Would this machine be better than the Emerald 118? Same price…almost the same features
I have this machine with the hard cover. I worry about picking it up as the cover does not cover the spool pin which is next to the handle when the cover is on. Twice I have got hold of the spool pin at the same time but have realized in time and not broken it.
Can anyone tell me the exact weight of the Viking Husqvarna 100Q? I want to carry it to classes because my sewing room machine is way too heavy to bring downstairs and to the car to go to any quilting or project classes. Thanks in advance.
I am also looking for the exact weight, as well as the dimensions.
it is 15lbs
Have a HQV D1- Want small travel machine. Know both the H100 Q is ok and looking at the Janome 720 platinum. Have all the Viking feet. Thoughts as to performance between the two?
I have just started using this machine…but I had noticed that when the needle becomes unthreaded or the bobbin runs out, there is no beep or alert. Is that correct?
My only objection is that the slow speed is a little too fast when trying to just go a few stitiches at a time.
Cyndi, Is your thread holder in the full up position when you start to sew? Using the needle up /don to the up position brings the thread guide to the top. If this is not in the full up position the thread can be pulled out of the needle when you start to sew. A great reference is the sewing mastery.com site. It has a full set of videos on using this sewing machine. Great reference. Good luck.
Cyndi and Susan –
Thanks to you both for visiting Sewing Insight.
Cyndi – This particular machine does NOT have any thread sensors.
Susan – The lowest speed setting is very slow, but could possibly be a challenge when you want just a few stitches at a time. If you are attempting to get just a minimum number of stitches, it may be necessary to resort to using hand wheel to achieve the results you want.
hi, I have the viking 100q and I am trying to shirr, which is not working!! I have shirred using other machines. Is it possible to shirr using this machine??
Hi, I have the Viking 100Q and can’t seem to adjust the presser foot pressure when ditching on a quilt and end up getting lots of puckering when crossing lines of stitching.
I recently purchased the 100Q Viking and I absolutely love it! I previously owned a Viking and have always been impressed with the exceptional quality, and this model is no exception! It does have 20 different stitches that are lovely and so easy to punch the button and you have the stitch! I don’t need all the fancy embroidery, but I wanted a good quality machine that does everything I need for quilting and practical sewing! This machine is so smooth and easy to use and the stitching is perfect! It has everything for the quilters as well! It’s light weight and portable and at the same time, I am proud to use it as my primary machine. In my opinion, if you are looking for a good quality machine with a great warranty and reasonably priced, you can’t go wrong by the 100Q.
My main machine for over 30 years has been the Viking 6690. The circuit board recently burned out for the second time. The first time was after 14 years and was replaced free under warranty! Unfortunately, parts are no longer available. I have been looking at new machines and had decided on the H100Q until I was “test driving” and discovered that the reverse would not work on the mending stitch (3 step zigzag). I was so disappointed as this has been my most used utility stitch over the years. I checked the online manual and the reverse function is designed to work for stitches 01,02, & 08 only. I consider this a serious design flaw and hope that they will correct this in an updated model. Otherwise, it’s a great little machine for diverse uses. I can’t wait though and am now looking at the Pfaff Passport 2.0. FYI, my old presser feet do fit BUT you have to be careful about stitch width. The newer Vikings are capable of wider stitching.
Catherine, There is a ‘Fix’ button for the other stitches instead of a reverse button. This immediately ‘ties off’ the thread. There isn’t a reverse for the other stitches because they are decorative and if you reversed it would mess up the design, so you use the Fix feature instead. Hope this helps.
I just purchased the 100Q and love it. It is smooth, has perfect stitches and the 1/4 foot is perfect and accurate. I will soon be teaching myself how to quilt on it. My ‘regular’ machine is a Viking Lily 550. That is also an excellent machine.
How does the H class models compare with the emerald ones?
I am hesitating between the two because of the upholstery and the reviews of the emerald not being as good
Thanksk
if you need to do heavier work, go with the emerald. i’ve talked to people who have done thick fabrics with the 100q but if you are doing a lot of denim or canvas or even thin leather, get the emerald 118
I am thinking of buying this machine becouse they tell me its the only brand that has the adjustable footh weight.
I am comparing it with the pfaff idt system. What is the difference in the use and results?
I bought the H100Q over a year ago but have not used it much. I have a Viking 1+ that I dearly love but it is too heavy to cart to classes and guild. Using it forces you to learn different features and I have cone to love the needle threader.
I have a question about your statement that you can adjust the needle position. I am trying to roll a hem on chiffon and am having a difficult time. If I could move the needle over 1 click it would work better. Anyone know if this is possible.?
I do not like the amount of space between the harp and the sewing platform. My hands are hard to get in to twist the knobs, change the needle or thread the needle. I guess I will get used to that.
Its a nice little machine but it is a Chevy compared to a Cadillac (the 1 +).
Another question – In transit yesterday the machine shifted and broke off the vertical spool holder. Has anyone had that problem and can it be fixed.
Thanks for all the above comments.
I purchased & used the 100Q almost two years ago. It has sat for about a year. I tried to use today, had lots of problems, & found that the foot pedal is not working. I could use the start/stop button, but not the foot pedal.
Do you have any ideas on what to check or troubleshoot?
Thank you.
I bought this machine about 2 yrs ago and still regret buying it. Although it does have many nice features the pressure on the foot is not what it should be . As soon as I hit a seam I have to push and pull to help the needle over it. The shop I bought it from tried to adjust it and it was a bit better but I still fight with it. I would never recommend it to anyone. I work on a Husq one one size down (in a shop I work) and it sews a lot better than mine.
I have had my H/class 100q for about 18months or so, very new to sewing but I love it. It’s very easy to use and manages well.
However when trying to explore new accessories I am in a muddle.
I look of the husqvarna website and it lists all the feet that work with my machine, then directly under says works with machines group 1-7 and what’s mine… and my machine is not listed? I email husqvarna asking this exact question what group does my machine fall in? No reply? Does anyone know what group the Husqvarna Viking H/class 100q fall in? And what accessories are best for my machine?
Bobbins and feet.
I am very interested in one of the HQ100 machines. I have been using one in my quilting class for the last two years, and I have been sewing myself for years. I loved working on this machine and decided I want one for myself. Please give me more information on cost and if it can be shipped to New York State. Thank You
I don’t know what you want.
emerald 118 so disappointed in this machine! i have had it for over 2 years and all i can do is a straight stitch! i need to do a “V” and i can’t get it to do it! and this orange and white stitch makes absolutely no sense! and i have watch the you tube videos over and over! i am going to sell this and get a bernina like i should have in the first place!