Everyone has their own personal favourite so you'll get as many different answers as there are brands of machines. As others have said, visit several dealers and test drive lots of different makes and models. Take along different samples of the type of function you want the machine to perform, eg piecing, machine quilting. If you have a favourite thread, take that too. My other recommendation is to buy from a reputable dealer rather than a box store or on line because you might want good after sales service.