I can not speak to the difference between the brands, But I have used a vintage singer one on my model 27 treadle machine. it works best with light material. I find it useful to "overcast" edges on things like linen scarves and things of that nature. Since it relies on moving the fabric... you need a clean smooth table and fabric that is slightly "sticky" to itself ( say flannel ) or a single layer of light fabric for it to work its best.