My feeling is that an initial investment in a really good machine is better than repetedly replacing a poorer machine. Also in buying from a dealer you get good repair and support if you need it. I have a upscale computerized Bernina and I love it, but I also have a Bernina 830 mechanical that I have had for over 30 years. The 830 works as well now as it did when I first bought it. I paid $500 and guess what it is still worth $500. So Look for a good mechanical version of any good brand, babylock, Janome, Huskyvarna. Go to a dealer and check for refurbished trade-ins, get a mechanical rather than computerized if you want to go low cost. I recomend the Bernina 440 for a good midpriced computerized or if you can find one an second hand 830 mechanical, but then I am prejudiced towards Bernina.