I have a small Janome Gem ($500)that I love as well as an older Elna Quilter's dream (also $500 but almost 7 yrs old) and an even older Babylock Esante 1 (more than 12 yrs old I think with original cost over $3000) that I would not part with. Find one with the bells and whistles that are most important to you but is easy enough to enjoy without being frustrated that it's too complicated. Good luck finding one you like. Remember that hopefully it will last you a long time so get what you want and what your budget can handle. I wouldn't go into debt for one.