Doesn't matter who you talk to
@jen1r their sewing machine will be the best, because it suits them. Have a laugh at this.
In 1992 I bought a Janome Memory Craft after going into the shop for a reel of thread - lovely machine but then the bobbin winder got iffy, coinciding with joining this forum in 2008 (in its previous name), that I swapped, I was recommended a Pfaff, the Select 2, very sturdy machine, still are, but I'd got used to a computer machine so bought the Pfaff Expression six months later (a real love affair, even though I only used about 11 stitches). In between that came a Janome, bought on a whim but not kept long, a Bernina 215, I thought I would keep that forever, only around 11 stitches but all perfect, but a really clanky walking foot and the Expression's was built in. I sold the Pfaff Select 2 then realised how solid it was, (a mechanical machine) and got it back via a Pfaff Select 4 with IDT. Then saw a Husqvarna Viking Mega Quilter at a good price and only one stitch (I only do pretend quilting) still got that because of its muscle.
Finally since I was starting to get old and itchy (2021), I sold the Expression, the Select 4 and the Bernina (barely lost any money considering how long I'd had them all, and bought a brand spanking new Expression 719 (lovely livery) together with a Pfaff Passport 3, lightweight for shifting up and downstairs.
What is so funny is that other than the original Janome Memory Craft I bought them all on line without even trying and I didn't even try the Memory Craft, I just watched the sales lady.
It's certainly a minefield with all the machines available, but once you know what you want to use it for, and what features are essential, then it becomes a lot easier although looks come into it as well.
Don't waste time though, there are price rises waiting in the wings on them all and once current stock has left the store room you will be hit.