The 630 is geared as much to quilters as the 440, it just has more features. The machines that are better for quilters are the 5.5mm machines with the optional BSR foot. In the Bernina line up, those would include the 430/440 Auroras, and the 630/635 Artistas. The 430/440/450(9mm) are being replaced this month with the 500 series, which will be announced at Bernina University this month... nothing known about them yet.

The newer 820 is also portrayed as a quilter's machine, but I personally don't like piecing on a 9mm feed dog machine. Having owned the 440, the 630, the 730 and the new 830, I think the 430/440 are terrific for quilters, and the 630/635 if you want to embroider as well.

im a 440 owner and love my bernie, she never lets me down, we've had a love love relationship for about 6 years now. i am so curious about the new 500, i don't want bernie to think I'm being unfaithful, but i am dreaming about what the 500 may have that the 440 does not - more throat space, auto thread cutter, low bobbin indicator, gosh, I am so tempted!!

I have a 630 and love, love, love my machine and the BSR. I also have a Brother Project Runway. The Brother is a good little machine to take to class, but I use my 630 the most. Just finished a queen size quilt for my DD.

Thank you for your detailed response about the 630, CJ, especially the info about the feed dog width.

I know I want a Bernina with the BSR and thought the 440QE would be THE machine for quilters who didn't want an 820. Was curious about what the 630 offered that made it more desirable. Sounds like its the embroidery feature.

Then was looking at the 820 with the big throat...but, we're going to be full-timing in a fifth-wheel beginning this fall and I think an 820 is going to be too big to drag around, set up, take down, store, etc. Guess I'll wait until the new machines debut this month. Unfortunately, with more models to choose from instead of helping me make a decision, they will probably just add to my confusion :).

Thanks again,
Margaret

My guess is that the 500 series machine changes will be mostly cosmetic, if you look at the Bernina 8 Series and the 3 series, they look very different from the Artista/Aurora lines. I'd stake my life on it that they will not include dual feed or the large throat of the 8 series, otherwise there would be no market for the 820.

As for the difference between the 440 and the 630, I love them both. The 440 has push buttons, some folks love that and some hate it, whereas the 630 stitch menu is on screen entirely. Of course there are more stitches on the 630, and more flexibility in personalized options.

They both embroider beautifully, but the 440 (and 430/450) require a computer to be tethered to it, with the computer operating the embroidery. I HATED this feature. That's the only reason I would recommend the 630 over it if you want to embroider.

When the 500 series is released, you should see some nice discounts on remaining 430/440/450) machine left in dealer stock... once they're gone they're gone.

You do not want the 820 in your RV, trust me. It is HUGE... and ungodly heavy. I can't take my 830 up and down the stairs on my own.

Guys,

You are all fantastic!

Thank you all for your responses. Is there an exact date set for the release of the new 500 range?

Can't wait!

Hugs