You can go to the Janome site and compare machines if you like. I have the 8900 grey face and love it. When new, I took it out of the box, plugged it in, didn't even change the needle, followed the instructions for free motion, and immediately started FMQ with no problems. I was amazed. Smooth operating. Love the harp space. wonderful machine. The decorative stitches are to die for....that 9mm really creates beautiful decorative stitches. If the price is right, go for it. If you don't like it for some reason (can't imagine) you can resell it and get all if not more than your money back. Love this machine.

Love my 8900, currently fmq a king size quilt and it is handling the bulk well. Any new machine has a learning curve. Lots of info on the internet. Have had this machine for 3 years.