Both machines are nice and I have the APQS dealer right here in town but I went with the Innova for a couple reasons. The price comparison for the extras I wanted, customer service is just a phone call away 24/7/365 days, plus as mentioned all I have to do is oil the bobbin area when I go to clean. I've used every type of thread excluding serger thread and it sews beautifully with rarely any adjustments on my part. I did go for the updated tension assembly and I'm so glad I did as I don't have to oil the pads either. I've had a couple issues, mostly operator error and Michael walked me thru it. The fact you can turn the head horizontal was a nice feature too and that fact you can lift the top rail to smooth out the batting. I did opt for the auto-advance, lightening stitch and upgraded tension system. I had my own robotic system so just needed to upgrade it (3rd party). I've never been sorry I purchased the Innova instead of the APQS here in town.