I am researching embroidery machines and getting very confused. Is it better to buy a machine that hooks up to my laptop via a USB port? Or is it better to get a machine that requires a card reader such as a PED basic for Brother machines? Maybe it just is a matter of personal preference? HELP!! :roll:

Personal preference , I think and computer knowledge . I am not sure about cost . Mine has the PED and is easy to use once you figure it out :wink: LOL

which model machine did you get?

Personally I like having the USB- It has much more vesatility. Nearly everything you can get on a card can also be downloaded, but with a card - that is ALL you get!

I have the Brother SE270D the hoop is only 4x4

Thanks for the input. I hadn't considered that! This board is awesome!

:-D

You can download patterns to the card from the internet also

My card can be unloaded and reloaded with the designs I want to use at that time. I keep the designs on my computer and download them to my card as needed.

I like being able to use my computer... more storage and versatiltiy

Am I understanding it correctly that with a memory card the designs are on the card and you insert the card into your embroidery machine? And with the PED basic you download designs from the Internet and upload the card into the embroidery machine? I wasn't kidding when I said I am confused. :(