Brother or janomes are popular. My baby is learning on my mechanical brother but I wouldn't hesitate to buy my computerized brother SQ-9050 from walmart again. That machine has been an absolute workhorse and I feel it would be a great beginner machine. I believe mine was replaced by the SQ-9185 at walmart but it gets rave reviews as well. I also know the janome magnolia's are very popular but I have never used a janome(always been a brother gal).