The 550 QE will have NO embroidery capability. Only the 580 will have embroidery potential. The 430/440/450 are all embroidery compatible, although the software may be unsupported or obsolete in the not too distant future. If I didn't already have a 440, I'd be looking to snag one now at a reduced price. It seems to me that the 550 has no new features, just upgraded cosmetics, screen, and lighting.