Depends on the features you want. I would not purchase from WalMart....they were carrying cheaply made Brothers, no steel frame, plastic...and they do not provide any back up or service. They make you go to the mfg. then you might as well toss it due to shipping costs. A good used Janome from a dealer would work well. I have a 3160 and now a 4120....but I have to have the auto thread cutter for class. Most of the time I am doing piecing in these classes...so the thread cutter and knee lift are important...these two machine are 11 lbs. Start with your local dealer.
Also check out allbrands.com.......they usually have some great buys for $300 and under....plus no sales tax and most of the time free shipping.