Buying a machine is akin to buying a car. Research, shop, test drive, negotiate the deal. You do most of it with your head but ultimately you buy with your heart - the one that feels right for you. Other people's comments and experiences can be helpful but you want to be able to develope a relationship with your machine so that every time you sit down to sew it is like reconnecting with an old friend and you are so glad to be there. DogHouseMom has given you a good start on a list. Some of those things may be important to you and others not.