As many will answer, it depends on what you sew. But, for a straight stitch, zig-zag, my recommendation is a Singer 201 or 15 with a zig-zag and blind stitch attachment. Can't go wrong. The 15 will be more easily found and cheaper, but not much compares to the 201 for straight stitch no complicated sewing. A 15 clone is a good choice also and often much less expensive.