Since this is a " second" machine, l would consider something lightweight( 10 lb)so it could travel to quilt group work bees etc. The Brother 6000i has an extension table, a perfect scant 1/4" ( stitch #37), had lots of stitch options, easy to use without continuously looking up things in a manual, and does a great fmq stitch. The one l bought my daughter even came with a hard cover and a walking foot. All for well under $200! No, it has no thread cutter or knee lift, but as a second machine, it's terrific.The throat is small, at 5 1/2", but it can handle wall hangins, table toppers & baby quilts. There are some cool dress making features as well.