I think one of the most important things to consider is the dealer. Most of the machines will have similar features and likely have models that are similar in price, but the dealer can make all the difference. They should be willing to give you lessons on the new machine, and I don't mean an hour or maybe two "quickie" lesson. What about service for the machine? Do they service the machine or have to send it off somewhere? Not that you expect it, but what about repairs?

I had a Brother, that had been doing okay for me. When I went to shop for a better machine I considered a Babylock. It had lots of nice features I didn't have on the Brother, but I finally went with a Pfaff because of the dealer.

Nancy