Mine does have the foot pedal but I also have the ability to sew/embroider without it. I actually have two that can do this, one with a knee lift and the other by push button. There are times, when I would not be able to sew successfully without the foot pedal, with either machine. It is a great feature but I'm glad to have the foot pedal for when its needed.
I have the thread cutter on both machines. My one ties off the thread before cutting the thread and yes, I love that feature, alot.