I guess it just depends on wether you are piecing or quilting.

I borrowed my sisters front load and didn't like it. So, when I purchased a machine I made sure it was a top loader.

Its more convienent checking to see if your bobbin is low on thread. Front loader you have to take it out to check instead of just peeking thru the top.

My machines are front loaders. I hate the tiny screw drivers. I use a 5 cent (Euro size) coin, about the size of a copper penny. Much easier than trying to wiggle the screw driver into akward positions.

I think the dealer just wanted to sell a machine.

I prefer the front load, for the reason already given - easier to change when you're in the middle of a quilt. But I have used machines with drop-in and never had to use a screw driver to take it out, so I don't understand those comments. Perhaps other machines require a tool to remove the cover???

I think they were talking about the "throat plate" under the needle, or it could be different than our machines.

I also prefer the front loading bobbin, as I found the drop in bobbin, if thread not wrapped on properly will come off just about the time I'm just getting going, but that is a problem with the Operator "Me"! not the machine.

I think they mean the throat plate also, but all the ones I can remember (even on vintage machines), just slid open no tool required.