It is hard. I think service/support is very important. Last year I had a choice between Janome & Bernina. Both dealers in town. Spent a month trying both & checking online. Then found out the Janome dealer was selling & wouldn't do a trade-in. She also bad mouthed the new owner of her fabric shop to Janome and the dealer is now 1-1/2 hr away. Bernina ended up $150 more to start but service is in town. I'm still learning what my Bernina can do but I am enjoying it even through I could have gotten something less pricy online. Sorry I rambled on. Can you get the service & questions answered where you purchased? That is probably worth the difference in price.