Before you buy, I suggest you make a list of all the features you want in the machine (ie auto thread cutter, knee lift, certain stitches, etc) and try to narrow your choice to machines with those "must have" features. I love my Brother Star 230E machine, but the one feature I wanted (and assumed it had) was a blanket stitch, and it doesn't. Now, I am buying another Brother that has those features. Depending on your skill level and what type of sewing you do, you might also consider getting a machine that you will "grow into" if you can afford it. Just a suggestion