Originally Posted by Reader1

I can only respond about the Zeal. I have had mine for 3 years and love it. It is the machine I take to classes, and until my husband purchased a machine that I use for quilting & embroidery I used it at home also. I find it easy to use and very strong. I can go through thick and thin fabrics with ease. I feel like I can really count on my Zeal to work well when I am piecing.