I've kept a running list of features I think I need. The biggest deal is the harp/throat size since I do my own quilting. That alone dictates features - like when you want one thing on a car and it only comes in a package. I use decorative stitches on every quilt - even if it's just to attach the binding - yes, I do that by machine. So a straight stitch machine won't do what I want it to. My current one is so light weight I chase it across my table - I sew on the dining table. So weight is a consideration. Sigh. This is hard! I see it as more important than a car purchase. I hope to have this machine more than the 10 years I now keep a car!