I have the Juki and the thread cutter on the foot is optional. I can disconnect it and use the button on the machine to cut. I have the Brother 1500 and it's been a workhorse for about twenty years but was having a few issues so I got the Juki. I like the Juki, it has easier tension setting. And my Brother 1500 feet fit it. I didn't have to invest in new ones. Both are great machines for quilting.