I bought a Janome cuz the price was cheaper but the throat was larger. I looked at both and there were probably other factors but its been more than 4 yrs since I bought it.
My friend bought her Bernina at the same time I got my Janome6500 and she told me later that she wished she had gotten the 6500 or 6600 instead.
We get what we want at the time, based on price, requirements etc. I'm sure there are many happy Bernina owners here too.
Warm quilt hugs, sue in CA