It is my understanding that Brother used to be a problematic machine, but it was bought out by the company that makes the Babylock. Since then it has improved dramatically and most people I know like them very well. Of course it depends on the features you want and what you will actually use. Also Singer used to be the epitomy of great machines and now it has fallen into disrepute. At our house we don't buy anything remanufactured or refurbished as we have had bad luck with several items we tried. If it only costs a few dollars more, buy new! I have a Babylock that does everything but make coffee and I really love it. Also have about a dozen other machines so feel I can make an educated comparison.