The most important part, which ever machine that you buy, is to make sure that it has an easy and sustainable method of communicating with the computer. If it is out - dated technology, you will be forced to pay heaps for upgrades and repairs to keep the thing working. Check out how much each program costs and the costs of the hoops etc.They vary from reasonable to very expensive, depending on the brand. I bought the top of the range and it has never worked properly and the company now says I need to pay $2,500 for a new program. This has encouraged me to go for a new machine and am looking at Bernina 830 or Brother Quattro 6000. Good luck with your choice.