I have several machines and have had different experiences with all of them. And first off, let me say that I really push my machines to the max. I use them for business, so I put mine through a lot more than most people.
I have an old 70's model Singer - doesn't do much but is very, very heavy duty and will sew through just about anything. I have a newer Singer serger, which has held up surprisingly well for what I've put it through. I really don't like newer Singer machines because they aren't made very well anymore (nothing like the old ones). I had a Singer sewing machine for a while that didn't last through a month of what I needed it for (which is why I'm surprised the serger has done so well). I also have a Euro-pro that was about $350 from Target that has also held up well for a cheaper machine. I use it almost daily with no problems. I borrowed my MIL's Bernina for a long time, which is also a good machine but they have a heftier price tag. My best machine hands down is a Husqvarna/Viking that does regular sewing and embroidery. After all the machines I've used, nothing has come even close to the quality of that one. They are quite expensive, so if you don't do a lot of sewing a cheaper brand will be fine, but if you sew a lot and want something that will last forever, that's my recommendation. Hope that helps!
