If built-in thread cutter is a priority, the Brother 420 is a great choice...the Pfaff Passport 3 has that feature as well as the Janome NQM2016..really a great machine with adjustable pressure and 60 or so stitches. Many people use the Brother SE400 or SE425 for purpose of travel/toting. That one does offer embroidery but the sewing side of it is stellar..and it does also have an auto-cutter..smaller than the others mentioned and lighter too. Those models tend to be built more solidly than some others in that price range so definitely worth a look.