I agree with the advice, find the brand and then pick the machine. Not only concider the brand, but the person that is selling it. What kind of customer service are you going to get? Will they hold your hand and be there for you. I have been a Bernina user for 25 years, but bought a Brother for my daughter and the deciding factor for both was the customer care that I recieved. That is just as important as any other feature.