I have both (and a bernina 430) and would not get rid of any of them. they each have their place, but I love bringing my 221 down to my camper for piecing. My 301 is in a cabinet, but is easily removable for portability, weighs just a little more than my 221 (and a lot less than the bernina) and will do both straight stitching and FMQ. If I had to start with one, I would get the 301 first.