not really, I don't use my machine enough to need one. However, I can sew with my embroidery unit on so its easy to go back and forth, just have to change the presser foot. I think it depends on how often you sew as embroidery can take a long time as can sewing. If you sew everyday and embroider everyday than I would get several machines but if you are like me where its ocassional as projects arise its not necessary. If I purchased the machine I have now as the sewing model and embroidery model separate it would have cost me a lot more, but I think it also depends on what kind of machine you want and your budget