I've never had any of my computerized die. They are just chugging along at 9 and 7 years. I expect that when they do die I will just replace. The 9 year 9ld is a walmart cheapie the dreamy will probably fix if parts are still available but might upgrade before then. As for feature I can say I use my cheapie more often and don't miss features of my big machine, don't even notice it surprisingly so really you just need staight and zigzag stitch and the ability to drop feed dogs