I have one machine with the thread cutter and I love it. It's the Janome MC6600P. It has the knee lift which I do not use. It also had the needle threader that I use from time to time. My favorite machine is my Singer 15-91 that is the machine I learned to sew on in 1962. It has the knee control so that is why I don't use the lift on the Janome. In fact, on the Janome I use the button start more than the foot pedal. And since my Singers (I also have a FW) do not have needle threaders I usually thread the Janome before I remember the threader. The needle up/down is very nice too.
I have the Husqvarna Designer Topaz 20 embroidery/sewing machine that also does not cut thread either, and I wish it did, but I use it mostly for the embroidery.

I've thought about the knee interference problem. I loooooove using the knee control on my machines that have it, and I was wondering about that, but the push button start also seems like something I would like. I've noticed people using it in videos and thought Hmmm, that seems like it would be nice. I think on Monday I will spend the day at the local high priced sewing machine store test driving sewing machines.

I wonder if I should bring a bunch of quilt pieces and make it worthwhile, lol.

I love it!

I have a Pfaff machine and I love the cutter. I have used it so much that it is becoming a little dull and does not always cut the bobbin thread. I loved my needle threader too but the blade broke off some time ago and I have not had the machine in for repairs so have not replaced the blade yet. Welcome to​the Board.

Definitely yes to the thread cutter! It's an awesome convenience and saves so much time.

Mine was built in to my machine, I was sure it would just sit and get dusty, but I have found it to be useful. Would I pay extra for it? No, but I use it daily because it came with the machine. I am almost exclusively a quilter and I use it. I find that I waste less thread.

Just saw your post Madpatter. I have a Phaff Expressions 5.2. I got it on sale late this fall because that model was being discontinued. I have a local dealer and repair shop so I am sure I can get service from those who know my machine.

There are several things on my “must have” list....auto threader, thread cutter, knee left and great lighting. Wouldn’t even consider a machine that doesn’t have all these features. They all improves my sewing experiences and are priceless to me.

Thread cutting
 

Would not buy a machine without it afer having it. Use it constantly .

QUOTE=Obstinate_grl76;8228596]Hi,
I'm new to the forum, I've been sewing off and on for years, mostly easy clothes and home projects. My old white machine needs to be replaced, and I've decided to go with a Janome. I'd like to start some quilting, and tried out the 3160 in the shop. That has the thread cutter which I kinda fell in love with. The problem is do I really need it?? (The other machine I'm looking at is the jw8100) I don't want to spend over $400 to get a super convenient, but not exactly necessary feature. I guess the question is, how much would I use it quilting vs general sewing? I don't want to get a machine, get hooked on quilting and kick myself for not getting that feature. On the other hand, if I end up primarily quilting, wouldn't that be an excellent reason for a new machine? Help!![/QUOTE]

If you are going to br quilting get the cutter, saves lots of time.

I'm another that loves my thread cutter. It saves time and is so much neater than not having one. One tip: stop just before you go off the fabric before using the cutter. My manual says to use it this way. I've gone a stitch or two off the fabric and not had a problem with it cutting but could see getting a knot if you went too far before using the cutter.