I have 4 embroidery machines; a Brother PE-150, Bernina Deco 600 and 650 and a Brother Innovis 4000D. Some are limited in hoop size - can only use a 4x4 hoop or 4x4 and 5x7, etc., so you need to consider how limited you want to be in regards to hoop size. I have PED Basic software, which is very simple and allows you to download designs from your computer. All of my machines can use this software. The Innovis 4000D can take the PED Basic as well as a USB stick. The Innovis is a sewing/embroidery machine, the others are embroidery only. If and when I upgrade again, I will purchase a machine that does only embroidery. I will never sew on the Innovis, I use it exclusively for embroidering and I embroider a LOT. I have more than one sewing machine so didn't need that feature, but I paid for it and these machines are expensive so really think about whether you want an embroidery only machine, or a combination machine.