Everyone is going to tell you their machine is the very best. But that isn't going to answer your questions. When I was deciding I tried both sit down and long arm. I found that it is more natural to "draw" designs with stitches when you are moving the "pencil" - needle than when you are moving the "paper" - fabric. Only you know which is better for you. As far as size get the largest machine you have room for and can afford so you don't regret it later.