I have used and owned many machines and there is no '' BEST" machine. The trick is to find a machine that suits your needs and is in your budget. An expensive machine is not always your best bet and you may not need a brand new machine. A gently used newer machine or a classic vintage machine may be exactly right for you. My DD is making dog crate pads and her newish Babylock machine (about $1000) was not very happy about those thick layers. I found her a vintage Singer 15-91 and it just zips through that fleece and batting without even a bit of hesitation. You need to visit some dealers and try out some machines (new and used). Take your own fabric samples and do a little stitching before you decide. Read any reviews and ask other quilters. Someone may be up grading their present machine and want to sell their older one. Don't be in a hurry to buy the first machine you try. Happy searching.