BellaOnline Forums Hobbies and Crafts Quilting Viking vs. Bernina??

I posted the following message on the sewing forum but thought the quilting forum might be a better place to ask this question:

Does anyone have any info on the pros & cons between Viking & Bernina? Specifically, I'm looking at a Viking Iris ($799) and a Bernina 135s ($899). The Viking is a combo sewing/embroidery machine, where the Bernina is sewing only.

I should probably mention that I'm somewhat of a beginner. I've dabbled over the years making little things like square pillows, aprons, and other super easy stuff (that usually doesn't turn out right. :-) I really want to sew, but I think I need to replace my 13+ year old Brother that cost about $100 when I bought it. I know that won't solve all my problems, but I think it might help. (I hope.)

What I would like to do is learn to quilt, make some home decorating stuff, and, a long time from now, make some clothes.

Now back to the two machines. I've looked at and had a demonstration for both (thought I have not yet taken them for a test drive). I know personal comfort is key in the decision, but I wanted to know if there's really anything that makes one of these machines 'shine' above the other. Is one more of a quality machine? Does one actually sew better? Are these good prices?

Lots of features were shared with me but I'm still struggling.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts. This isn't an easy decision.

Sew on both machines with your own fabric. Which one feels more comfortable. I own both brands but different models. Bernina has always been a very sturdy machine and had excellent stitches. I am not familiar with the Viking Iris. I own the Quilt Designer and love it. I sewn on the Bernina 135 and it is excellent.

Hi,
I have a Viking Iris. I haved wished more times than I can count that I would NOT have gotten a combination. I quilt alot but I also like to embroidery. It would be so much nicer and handier
to have seperate machines. I always have to remove my quilting things to do a quick embroidery
so I find myself not doing the nice finishing touches that make the quilt classy. Hindsight is always 20/20. I wish that I would have had this forum to ask that same question. Good Luck