I've been using mine for 4 years already, have 4 other machines, all Janome, which I swap out but I'm enjoying using this one right now for making masks. The needle threader is the best ever, very solid, works perfect every time. It's super easy to change stitch length/width (or needle position by using the width button to move it left or right of center when it's on straight stitch). Makes perfect buttonholes every time. And best of all (I won't buy a machine without this feature) it has adjustable presser foot pressure! A round dial on the top changes easily from light pressure to heavy. Another MUST-HAVE is the needle up/down where it stays on whichever you select. You can do free motion by dropping the feed-dogs, and there's plenty of decorative stitches that are perfect too. I've never had a thread jam, not a single one. I don't ever use the start/stop function without foot pedal because it's mostly short seams, but would come in handy if I were sewing long seams. I wish the light was a little brighter but no brand uses lights bright enough for my old tired eyes LOL I do highly recommend all Janomes especially in the more basic affordable models.