I have a Bernina and it was also too heavy for taking to classes so I bought the Pfaff Passport when it first came out. I love it. It is so lightweight that I do tend to move it around the house and follow the sun. I have the extension table, a plus. Love the IDT. I do tend to use it mostly for piecing. The 1/4" foot with guide is perfect on the Pfaff. I never thought I needed the guide but it has made things easier. The only negative I find is that you have to unscrew two screws to get at the bobbin area to clean it. I find cleaning the lint on both my machines decreases my trips to the dealer for servicing. Good luck with your decision.