I faced this same choice this year. My old Huskylock died and I needed a serger. One day, I thought that I would buy a higher end Babylock, but other things take precedence now. I researched online and thought the Brother was great for the money. When I went to the shop to buy the Brother, the owner walked me through the difference in the machines. The Janome is heavier- more stable when sewing, and has stronger loopers- less prone to snap and break. It cost a bit more but I decided on the Janome. I am very happy with it. I bought a couple of accessory feet, now I am all set for a long while. Do I really need that high end Babylock?- not right now.