I love my Viking. I've heard good things about Brother. Ask Hancock's return policy in case you get it and decide you don't like it. The main thing is what is the largest size hoop it will take. You'll get bored with a 4x4 or even a 5x7 really fast. Ask what support they have if you have questions. You can normally find some store that does classes. Our Viking store accepts anyone with any machine as long as you know the basics of how to use it. Check to see how you download designs; USB, etc. This is really important.