Brother/Babylock machines are easiest to use right out of the box. I will tell you it is not a cheap hobby to invest in, you will easily add on hundreds to the cost when you buy threads, stabilizers, designs, software. It is addicting and fun and trust me you will use it. I have made so many gifts with my machine. I will also say don't go with the cheapest model because you will have hoop envy. Software and putting designs on the usb are the only computer component but it is not hard at all. You can wait awhile on the software until you know your needs for the projects you want to do. Embrilliance essentials is a good easy software to learn. I have a babylock version and love it for doing lettering and merging designs.