I really prefer my 301 to the FW, because it is more depandable and steady sewer. The 301 was $40 on Ebay because it was dirty and didn't sparkle. I cleaned it and now it is a sparkly machine, a joy to sew with. I prefer to use it and it is heavier, but worth the trouble. It had the original case, but to travel, one of the cheap plastic boxes from Wal-Mart makes it easier to tote. The FW hasn't been used since the 301 came home.