I have the Viking Ruby and have alot of options when it comes to hoop sizes which is one reason that I wanted this one. I didn't want to limit my self or out grow my machine and get bored even though I'm new to it all. I don't like limitations and even a 5 x7 hoop would be very limited to me. It's an easy machine to use, I love the cutwork needles; they make life so much easier. I bought the professional 5D software, I went with prof because I wanted to create my own cutwork and I also wanted to do the portrait stitching and then there is so much more that goes with it. I have a great dealer with great classes and support which I think is key when buying a machine. Go to stores and check them out. My machine recognizes all formats not just Viking's format which makes it nice. I can transfer files via USB or my pc.