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Husqvarna Viking Platinum 730 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Husqvarna Viking Platinum 730 Review was originally written in 2014, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternatives such as Brother CS5055, Janome 3160QDC, Janome 4120QDC.
While strolling through Factory Sew-Vac in Lantana, Florida, I came across a Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730. It wasn’t until I got home to see what the website had to say about it that I learned this machine has been on the market for a very long time.
Husqvarna Viking Platinum 730 Review Overview
Platinum 730 is a mid-range mechanical sewing machine by Husqvarna that comes with a little more than standard or basic features. The device flaunts 42 decorative and utility stitches along with two styles of one-step buttonholes, left/right mirror imaging, reverse stitch, design stop, drop feed,etc. Tension adjustment is manual which is odd for a device at this price range but it does come with a free arm. The sewing advisor is also a helpful program for users.
The Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 looks very much like practically all of the other brand new machines offered by the folks at Husqvarna/Viking.
It has a monochromatic LCD screen and some of the touch controls that are offered on later model sewing, quilting and embroidery machines like fix, stop, and reverse stitch.
I couldn’t help but notice a couple of obvious omissions, however. The start/stop and presser foot up and down buttons were conspicuously absent.
Aside from that, the single most noticeable difference is that on the Platinum 730, these buttons are on the right panel rather than above the needle, where they are located on the crop of newer machines.
The touch pads for identifying the fabric you are working with help make sure the tension adjustment is just right each time you sew are located in the exact same position as on newer machines.
Another very important difference is the size and location of the presser foot lift. On newer sewing machines, the presser foot lift is behind the needle to the right.
On the Platinum 730, the presser foot lift is a huge lever – approximately two or three inches wide – directly behind the needle.
There is also an on board ruler, a see through bobbin cover that lets you actually see when the bobbin thread is low, a stitch selection guide inside the lid and an extra spool pin that can be used when winding the bobbin while sewing.
The Platinum 730 also has a brightly lit work surface, an on board accessories case that removes to reveal the functional free arm and the drop feed function is conveniently located on the very front of the machine.
What are some alternatives for Husqvarna Viking Platinum 730 Review?
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 Janome 4120QDC is a top-notch computerized sewing machine that is both incredibly sturdy and light enough to move about with ease. It is a powerful sewing machine that can handle a wide range of fabrics. Despite the fact that this machine may appear to be pricey, less expensive alternatives just cannot match its level of excellence.
Threading is simple with the jam-proof bobbin, which also keeps your stitches from straying over the edge of your project. In the meantime, you can effortlessly regulate the stitching pace, make small adjustments, and pivot on corners thanks to the user-friendly control panel and LCD screen.
The machine will remain functional as your skill set expands with 120 stitch options and 7 buttonhole options. A protective case that comes with the device protects it from dust and other substances that can harm it. An instructional DVD is also included so you can learn more about the machine.
The Janome 4120QDC was created to be an all-purpose machine in general. It can complete practically any task you give it. It boasts a tonne of features that make it one of the most adaptable and powerful sewing machines available.
The Janome 3160QDC is a fully functional, top-of-the-line machine that provides all of the benefits at an affordable price. It was created keeping a quilter's needs in mind.
The Superior Plus Feed System from the company Janome has optimized box feeding that makes it possible to feed any fabric steadily and consistently.
Six 1-step buttonholes are available among the 60 built-in stitches. This full-sized machine only weighs 12 pounds, which makes it convenient to transport to workshops and guild meetings.
Sewing is made simple with the time-saving features of this machine, like the memorized up/down needle, the single-handed needle threader, and the lock stitch button.
What are the features on Husqvarna Viking Platinum 730?
- 42 decorative and utility stitch options
- 2 one step buttonholes
- Sewing advisor
- On board needle threader
- Left/right mirror imaging
- Drop in bobbin
- Reverse stitch
- Design stop
- Drop feed
- Manual tension adjustment
- Presser foot pressure adjustment
- Free arm
Working on the Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730
Following the threading guides and the guides for winding the bobbin make preparing the Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 for work a breeze. Placing the bobbin in the drop in case is just as easy.
The menu icon next to the LCD screen is used to switch between utility and decorative stitch options. Utility stitches are clearly indicated on the numerical touch pad.
To gain access to the utility stitches, make sure the menu is set at ‘1’. If one of the decorative stitches depicted inside the lid are wanted, touch the menu icon on the touch pad, located next to the monochromatic LCD screen.
The function key on the touchpad allows you to choose one of three settings… normal, repeat or program. When it is set in the normal mode, you can choose your stitches from either menu and sew as usual.
If you want to repeat a decorative stitch, merely put the function setting on repeat. If, however, you want to produce a set stitch pattern or sequence, use the program function.
I found that although I used the correct fabric setting, it was sometimes necessary to still adjust the tension manually in order to achieve perfect results when working with very thin fabric.
This is no different than working with a machine that does not give you the luxury of telling it what type of fabric you are working with. This is, in my opinion, a very minor inconvenience.
However, a person with little or no sewing experience might get a bit frustrated if they are not aware that it is sometimes necessary to adjust the tension manually.
With the proper tension setting, I find that the Husqvarna/ Viking Platinum 730 produces perfect stitches. You will find that they are well formed, secure and very well defined. The default setting was ideal for the utility and decorative stitches as well.
What fabrics work on the Husqvarna Viking Platinum 730?
| 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 Platinum 730?
- Snap on presser feet
- 2 zigzag feet
- Buttonhole foot
- Blindhem foot
- Zipper foot
- Teflon foot
- Edging foot
- Sensor buttonhole foot
- Lint brush
- Stitch plate opener
- Screwdriver
- Seam ripper
- Clearance plate
- Bobbins
- Felt pad
- Light bulb remover
- Thread net
How to maintain the Husqvarna Viking Platinum 730?
| 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 | No | Yes |
Summary: Husqvarna Viking Platinum 730
The Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 is an excellent machine for anyone who has never before worked on a computerized sewing machine. Although I hesitate to recommend computerized sewing machines for use by children, I have no reservations when it comes to this one.
With proper supervision, I have no doubt that a child as young as seven or eight will be able to operate this machine in no time at all.
It is extremely user friendly. Even people who have been sewing for decades but are technologically challenged will have very little trouble learning to use this machine.
It does not have some of the features that are standard on other computerized machines, like a start/stop button, buttons to raise and lower the presser foot, or to snip the threads for you, but it does have an on board thread cutter on the rear and all of the essential controls one needs to have an enjoyable sewing experience. This machine is solid, makes very little noise and does not vibrate at all.
The seam guide on the Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 is very small with only two markings on it. If you purchase this one, you may want to pull out that old magnetic seam guide you tucked away a while ago.
To sum it all up, the only true shortcomings I found while reviewing the Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 are some of the very same things those of us who have been sewing for a long time grew accustomed to ‘back in the day’ before sewing machines were built to do so many things that we were trained to do for ourselves in sewing class.
If, like me you are an ‘old school’ home sewer, if you are accustomed to a mechanical sewing machine and want to add some computer technology to your sewing room without going all the way, or if you are a beginner who may or may not be intimidated by some of the high tech computerized sewing machines on the market, you should take a very close look at the Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 before making a final decision as to which computerized sewing machine to purchase.
Husqvarna Viking Platinum 730 Review
Summary
The Husqvarna Viking Platinum 730 is a mid-range sewing and embroidery machine that offers a variety of features. It has a large color LCD screen that makes it easy to preview embroidery designs and make edits on-screen. The machine also comes with 100 built-in embroidery designs, and you can also import your own designs using the machine’s USB port. In addition, the Husqvarna Viking Platinum 730 has 42 sewing stitches, so you can sew a variety of projects. The machine also has easy-to-use controls and a sturdy construction, making it a great option for sewers and embroiderers of all levels.
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Happy Stitching.
I loved this machine as long as I could before it needed cleaning and then the shocker! I will cost me $100.00 to send it off from Joanns for cleaning and adjusting. We have another place in town that will do the same for $100.00. It has been packed away in a closet for years because I cant afford the cost. Draw back!
Hello, Nancy –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
Yours is no a unique situation. Manufacturers recommend that every computerized sewing machine be cleaned and serviced at least once a year. Each service call costs about $100. The only way around this is to take a course in cleaning computerized sewing machines. The downside of that, however, is the fact that you will not have access to replacement components when they are needed.
This is why it is always a good idea to have an old fashioned mechanical sewing machine as a back up. You can clean and service them yourself and on the very rare occasions when it is necessary to take them in for servicing, the cost is generally much less. All the best to you and …
Happy Stitching.
I am in desperate need of the “Platinum Family Handbook” that was supposed to come with my Viking 730 but have been unable to run one down, any ideas?
http://manuals.husqvarnaviking.com/VSM/Husqvarna%20Viking/HVManual.nsf/1fd5659e6f37141041256697003e64c0/c95c148c2ea57a0a852575ed0070be46/$FILE/Platinum%20730%20%20x%20.PDF
Thanks Sally but we already have the user manual but not the “Platinum Family Handbook”
Jenny, contact Sew Right. If they have an extra copy of “The Platinum Family Handbook” they will gladly mail you a copy.
http://www.sewright.com or call (718) 468-5858
Does anyone know where I could purchase the video for the Platinum 730? I got a user’s guide, but have yet to figure out how to use the program stitches.
After taking my machine in to have the needle threader changed, it came back breaking the needle thread every few stitches. I changed threads, top and bottom. I changed the needle, and thoroughly cleaned the machine. I also changed the tensions. I do not want to take it back to the repairer, as it used to work fine before I took it for the change of the needle threader. Any thoughts about how I can fix this?
Thank you and best regards,
Alice
I love Viking and this is the machine I have had for about 18 years. No problems, I just want a new machine. I will not own any other brand, this is my 3rd Viking since 1963 that says a lot about the reliability and performance of these fine machines.
I LOVE my Platinum 730. I had not sewed since HS then got this for my nephew but he would not take the classes after he was told at the 1st one he was good. He thought he ‘knew it all’. I told him he was not getting the machine if he did not take the classes. SEW, the machine sat for almost 5 yrs. in my home and my hubby kept complaining about what I spent and it sitting there! Now he complains about all of the material and accessories we have filling up our home! LOL!!! Oh well! I am a disabled RN and while I cannot serve in the front lines with Covid19 I still can serve! God has given me many talents to share. I serve at 2 churches to the Homeless and Those in Need. I sew for a local hospital and the needy. I am blessed! Many in ASG have multiple machines and can embroider and serge but I just have my little 730 and it is getting me along just fine. There are other things I’d like to do but at 63 as long as I can do something to help someone I am happy! God Bless! Be safe all! xo… Peggy in Pa.
Where can I find out if my machine has these 4 special features I keep reading about without paying for yes or no answers?