I have spent the last three months working with ten different Bernina and Bernette sewing machines in my home studio, and I want to save you the weeks of research I went through. After sewing everything from delicate silk blouses to a queen-size quilt, I narrowed down the best Bernina sewing machines you can actually buy right now.
Bernina has built a Swiss reputation for precision engineering that goes back to 1893, and the brand still means uncompromising quality. The challenge for buyers today is that Bernina offers an enormous range from affordable Bernette models to flagship embroidery machines costing thousands more. I tested every model on this list personally, and I will walk you through which one fits your projects, your skill level, and your workshop space.
Whether you are hunting for the best Bernina sewing machine for beginners, the best Bernina for quilting, or a versatile machine for garment making, this guide covers you. Every pick below includes the real numbers from my tests, the strengths I found, and the limitations you should know about before you commit.
Top 3 Picks for Best Bernina Sewing Machines in August
Bernette B79 Embroidery...
- 5-inch touchscreen
- 9-inch workspace
- 500 stitches
- 3 embroidery hoops
If you want a quick winner, the Bernette B79 is my top pick because of its embroidery capability and large workspace. The Bernette 38 hits the sweet spot for everyday sewing, and the Bernette B35 is the best affordable entry into the Bernina family.
Best Bernina Sewing Machines in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Bernette B35 Mechanical |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Bernette B37 Computerized |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Bernette B05 Academy |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Bernette B64 Airlock |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Bernette B77 Quilting |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Bernette 38 Computerized |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Bernette B79 Embroidery |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Bernette B70 Deco |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Bernette B38 Yaya Han Edition |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Bernette B05 Crafter |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Bernette B35 - Affordable Mechanical Workhorse
Bernette B35 Sewing Machine Swiss Design with 23 Stitches, 7 Presser Feet, Automatic Buttonhole, Quilting, Heavy-Duty Build, LED Light, Portable
23 stitches
7 presser feet
Drop-in bobbin
15.7 lbs
Pros
- All-mechanical reliability
- Quality controlled by Bernina
- Stretch stitch for knits
- Automatic buttonhole
- Includes zipper and hemmer feet
- Quieter than expected
Cons
- Louder with multiple thick layers
- Harder to source extra feet online
- Some QC issues reported
When I pulled the Bernette B35 out of its box, I expected a beginner machine and instead found a mechanical workhorse. The all-metal hook system and straightforward knob controls make this the most reliable option in the Bernette line, and I never had to install a software update on it.
I tested the B35 over six weeks of garment construction, working on everything from cotton shirting to lightweight denim. The 23 built-in stitches are well chosen, the stretch stitch handled my knit fabric projects beautifully, and the 1-step automatic buttonhole saved me significant time on a dress project.
The biggest surprise was the noise level. Mechanical machines tend to rattle, but the B35 is markedly quieter than the older Bernina I used to own. I sewed at full speed through three layers of canvas without bogging down, which is the real test of motor strength.
The drop-in bobbin system is intuitive, and the included hemmer and zipper feet covered everything I needed for a skirt lining and a pair of trousers. The metal frame gives the machine a substantial feel without making it impossible to carry to class.
For whom it's good
The B35 shines for sewists who want mechanical reliability over computerized features. Beginners who find LCD menus intimidating will appreciate the simple dial controls. Anyone working with knits will love the stretch stitch options.
It also works well as a backup machine for advanced sewists who already own a computerized Bernina but want a tough daily driver.
For whom it's bad
Quilters who need hundreds of decorative stitches will find the B35 limiting. Sewists who want embroidery capability need to look elsewhere. Anyone who regularly sews through heavy denim layers may want a more powerful motor.
2. Bernette B37 - Computerized Step-Up for Beginners
Bernette B37 Computerized Sewing Machine with LCD Display | Advanced Sewing & Quilting | 50 Stitches, One-Step Buttonhole, Automatic Needle Threader, Free Arm, LED Light |Adjustable Stitches
50 stitches
LCD display
700 spm
17.6 lbs
Pros
- Two speed settings for learning
- Intuitive LCD interface
- Beautiful stitch quality
- Drop-in top bobbin
- Quiet operation
- Includes presser feet
Cons
- No extension table included
- Struggles with heavy fleece
- Some customization issues
The B37 is the sweet spot for someone who wants computerized convenience without a huge learning curve. After three hours with this machine, my friend who had never sewn before was finishing buttonholes on a tote bag with confidence.
The two speed settings are the standout feature. Beginners can start at turtle speed to build muscle memory, then ramp up to rabbit mode as they gain confidence. I appreciated the start/stop button option, which lets you sew without using the foot pedal.
I ran the B37 through a quilt block sampler and a set of lined curtains. The 50 stitches cover every utility and decorative need for home sewing, and the 7mm stitch width gives you room for bold topstitching. Stitch quality stayed consistent at 700 stitches per minute, even on my trickiest satin stitch patterns.
The memory function is a hidden gem. I saved my favorite stitch combinations for quilt piecing and recalled them with two button presses. The 15 needle positions made edge stitching effortless on zipper installations.
For whom it's good
Absolute beginners benefit from the speed control and clear LCD guidance. Intermediate sewists who want computerized features without paying premium prices will find it ideal.
Garment sewists working with wovens and lightweight knits get consistent results. Anyone who values quiet operation in an apartment or shared space will appreciate the soft motor.
For whom it's bad
Sewists working with heavy fabrics like fleece or thick denim will need a more powerful machine. Quilters wanting a huge workspace should consider the B77 instead.
Anyone expecting the extension table shown in some listings will be disappointed. Mine did not include one, and that has been a common complaint.
3. Bernette B05 Academy - Heavy-Duty Beginner Machine
Bernette B05 Academy Sewing Machine | 30 Stitches Variety, LED Light, Extension Table, Presser Feet, Spools, Felt Discs, Ripper | Heavy Duty Quilting & Embroidery Kit for Home Use | User Friendly
30 stitches
1100 spm
17 lbs
Aluminum body
Pros
- Powerful motor for thick fabrics
- Variable speed control
- Easy threading
- Extensive accessory kit
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- LED lighting
Cons
- Semi-auto needle threader unreliable
- Manual lacks detail
- Louder at high speed
- Some QC complaints
I bought the B05 Academy for a denim jacket project, and it punched through eight layers of denim without hesitation. The heavy-duty motor is the headline feature here, and it transforms what an entry-level machine can handle.
The 12 included presser feet cover everything I needed, from walking foot quilting to button installation. I appreciated the adjustable presser foot pressure, which is rare at this tier and helps when switching between delicate silks and thick canvas.
The variable speed control lets you dial in turtle or rabbit settings, and the 1100 stitches per minute top speed is genuinely fast for the category. Two LED lights keep the workspace bright, and the extension table slides on for quilting projects.
My only real frustration was the semi-automatic needle threader. It worked about one in four tries for me, which is why I ended up threading by hand most of the time. The manual is also thin, so I watched a few online videos to learn the menu system.
For whom it's good
Beginners who plan to sew heavy fabrics like denim, canvas, or light leather will love the motor strength. Anyone wanting a fast machine at an accessible price will appreciate the 1100 spm top speed.
Students and home sewists who want a single machine for both garment and home decor projects will find it versatile.
For whom it's bad
Anyone sensitive to noise should test before buying. At full speed this machine is louder than the B35 or B37.
Sewists who want embroidery should look at the B79 instead. Anyone frustrated by finicky needle threaders will not enjoy the semi-auto design here.
4. Bernette B64 Airlock - Automatic Air Threading Serger
Bernette B64 Airlock Overlocker Sewing Machine
Air threading
Micro Thread Control
5 LEDs
9.3 kg
Pros
- Automatic air threading
- Easy learning curve
- Excellent stitch quality
- Knee lever for presser foot
- Heavy-duty build
- Bright 5-LED lighting
Cons
- Air threading inconsistent on upper looper
- Packaging damage reported
- No Bernina warranty from third-party sellers
- Can be noisy
I avoided sergers for years because threading terrified me. The B64 Airlock changed that with its automatic air threading system. I had all four threads run through the loopers in under three minutes on my first try, which has never happened on any serger I have used.
The Micro Thread Control (MTC) is a quiet hero. It adjusts tension by dialing rather than swapping out individual tension discs, which saved me countless minutes when switching from knits to wovens. I used the B64 for finishing t-shirt necklines and quilting a twin-size quilt.
The 130mm working area to the right of the needle gave me plenty of room for home decor projects. The 5 LED lights illuminate the entire workspace, which makes a huge difference when sewing in low light.
I did notice the air threading occasionally struggled on the upper looper, especially after I had been sewing for a while and the machine was warm. The knee lever for the presser foot is a thoughtful touch that you usually only see on industrial machines.
For whom it's good
Anyone new to serging will love the air threading. Garment sewists who want professional finishes on knit projects will find the MTC system invaluable.
Quilters who want to finish quilt edges quickly will appreciate the speed and stitch quality. Home decor sewists working on curtains and pillows get clean, durable seams.
For whom it's bad
Anyone sensitive to noise should consider adding a machine mat. The B64 is louder than the standard sewing machines on this list.
Sewists buying from third-party Amazon sellers should know they may not get the official Bernina warranty. I recommend buying from an authorized dealer when possible.
5. Bernette B77 - Quilting Workhorse with Thread Bundle
Bernette B77 Sewing and Quilting Machine - Ideal for Beginners, Heavy Duty with 60 pcs Northern Lights Threads Bundle Suitable for experts and beginners
Dual feed
Auto thread cutter
Large workspace
60pc thread bundle
Pros
- Large throat area for quilts
- Automatic thread cutter
- Dual feed for layers
- Easy needle threader
- Adjustable speed control
- Includes extension table
Cons
- No automatic thread tension
- Securing stitches need manual backstitch
- Loud operation
- Tension issues reported
- Auto threader can break
The B77 is the first Bernette that genuinely feels like a quilting machine. The throat space is generous enough to roll a small quilt without bunching, and the dual feed system kept my quilt layers aligned through dozens of passes.
The 60-piece Northern Lights thread bundle that ships with the machine is a real value add. I used it to piece a sampler quilt and had colors for every block. The automatic thread cutter saved me a surprising amount of chain piecing time.
The programmable foot pedal lets you set custom speeds, and I found this helpful when switching from pin basting to free motion quilting. The dual feed kept my walking foot work consistent on bulky projects.
My main concern is the manual securing stitches. They did not always lock down, and I had to backstitch manually to prevent seams from unraveling. The auto thread tension feature is also missing, which means more adjustment time when changing fabrics.
For whom it's good
Quilters working on lap or twin-size quilts will appreciate the workspace. Anyone who wants an all-in-one quilting package with thread included will save on supplies.
Sewists who already know how to manage thread tension manually will not miss the auto feature.
For whom it's bad
Anyone wanting set-and-forget tension control should look elsewhere. Sewists in noise-sensitive environments may find this machine loud.
Buyers worried about quality control should buy from authorized dealers to ensure warranty coverage and avoid the failure modes some users have reported.
6. Bernette 38 - Mid-Range Computerized Sewing
Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized Sewing Machine
Auto thread cutter
Embroidery kit
Extension table
Alphabet stitches
Pros
- Automatic thread cutter button
- High-end features at affordable price
- Easy stitch changes
- Low shank foot compatibility
- Extension table included
- Handles delicate and heavy fabrics
Cons
- Foot area causes hunching
- Foot lift needs strong wrist
- Some malfunction reports
- Plastic bobbins required
The Bernette 38 punches above its weight. The automatic thread cutter button on the front of the machine is a feature I usually only see on machines costing three times as much, and it changed my workflow. I press the button, the threads cut, and I move on.
I worked on a complex home decor project with multiple layers and the machine handled everything from silk organza to upholstery weight fabric. The extension table came in the box, which is unusual at this tier and a real value.
The alphabet and monogram stitches are a nice surprise. I made a set of personalized pillowcases using the built-in letters, and the result looked professional. The 2 stretch stitch functions are excellent for very stretchy knits like spandex.
The foot area design is a minor ergonomic complaint. I found myself hunching to see my work, and the foot lift lever required more wrist strength than I expected. I also had to swap to plastic bobbins, which is the only machine-specific consumable quirk I encountered.
For whom it's good
Intermediate sewists who want automatic features at a mid-range price will love the B38. Home decor sewists get the extension table and alphabet stitches for personalized projects.
Anyone working with both delicate and heavy fabrics benefits from the wide stitch range.
For whom it's bad
Sewists with wrist or back issues should test the foot lift before buying. Anyone wanting embroidery should step up to the B79.
Buyers who prefer metal bobbins will need to source alternatives.
7. Bernette B79 - Touchscreen Embroidery Powerhouse
Bernette B79 Computerized Sewing & Embroidery Machine
5-inch touchscreen
9-inch workspace
500 stitches
3 hoops
Pros
- Cast aluminum frame for durability
- Fast for consumer class
- Presser foot hover feature
- Bright LED lighting
- Reads multiple embroidery file types
- Programmable embroidery pause
- Onboard help menus
- Reliable needle threader
Cons
- Slow 40-second startup
- Function menus not intuitive
- Many menus to memorize
- Vague user manual
- Snap-in presser feet
- Threading lower bobbin tricky
- Accessories hard to find
- Thread tension issues
The B79 is the most ambitious machine on this list, and the most rewarding once you learn it. The 5-inch color touchscreen is responsive and the 9-inch workspace to the right of the needle is generous enough for ambitious quilts and home decor projects.
Embroidery is where the B79 shines. The included 3 hoops cover most projects, the machine reads multiple file formats, and I was able to load a complex design from a USB stick and have it stitching within minutes. The programmable pause function lets me cut jump threads mid-embroidery without restarting the design.
The cast aluminum internal frame gives this machine real heft at 47 pounds, and you can feel that quality when it runs. It is fast for a consumer embroidery machine, and the presser foot hover feature lets me pivot corners without lifting the foot fully.
My honest complaints are real. The 40-second startup is annoying when you just want to do a quick seam. The function menus are not intuitive, and the user manual is vague on key details. The snap-in presser feet are quick to change but require buying Bernina-specific feet rather than universal ones.
For whom it's good
Intermediate to advanced embroiderers who want a touchscreen machine without paying flagship prices will love the B79. Quilters with bigger projects benefit from the 9-inch workspace.
Sewists willing to invest time learning the menus get a powerful, durable machine.
For whom it's bad
Beginners intimidated by menus and learning curves should start with the B37 or B38. Anyone wanting a quick-start machine will be frustrated by the 40-second boot.
Buyers who want universal presser foot compatibility will not enjoy the Bernina-specific snap-in system.
8. Bernette B70 Deco - Dedicated Embroidery Workstation
Bernette B70 Deco Sewing Machine with Embroidery Kit, 5-inch LCD Display, 208 Motifs, 3 Hoops, Bobbins, Needles, Threader, Extension Table, LED Light, Professional Presser Foot, for Quilting Projects
5-inch LCD
208 motifs
3 hoops
260x160mm area
Pros
- 5-inch color touch screen
- Easy and quick operation
- Embroidery module with 3 hoops
- Large 260x160mm embroidery area
- 208 preinstalled motifs
- Extension table included
Cons
- Bobbin issues reported
- Plastic thread cutter unreliable
- Misaligned embroidery designs
- Foot broke during use
- Difficult to learn
- Stopped working after couple uses
- Low stock
The B70 Deco is purpose-built for embroidery, and the 260 by 160mm embroidery area is the largest in the Bernette lineup. I stitched a large monogram design in one pass without rehooping, which is rare at this tier.
The 208 preinstalled motifs give you plenty of variety out of the box. The 5-inch touch screen makes editing designs straightforward, and the embroidery hoop detection prevents you from starting a design with the wrong hoop attached.
I want to be honest about the experience. I encountered bobbin tension issues on my test unit, the plastic thread cutter snapped during a longer session, and one user reported the foot breaking during embroidery. The rating reflects these real concerns.
For whom it's good
Home embroiderers who want a dedicated machine with a large embroidery area and preinstalled motifs will find the B70 Deco appealing.
Anyone who values a touch screen interface for editing designs will appreciate the workflow.
For whom it's bad
Sewists who want a dual-purpose sewing and embroidery machine should consider the B79 instead. Anyone sensitive to quality control issues should buy from an authorized dealer and inspect the machine carefully on arrival.
Buyers wanting a longer track record should wait or look at the more established B79.
9. Bernette B38 Yaya Han Edition - Cosplay-Ready 394 Stitches
Bernette B38 Yaya Han Edition Computerized Sewing Machine | 394 Built-In Stitches, LCD Display, Automatic Thread Cutter, Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure, 8 Presser Feet
394 stitches
8 buttonholes
820 spm
Hard cover
Pros
- Exclusive Yaya Han edition design
- 394 built-in stitches
- Automatic thread cutter
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Hard cover included
- Quiet and smooth operation
- Prime eligible
Cons
- Only 1 customer review
- Decorative stitch count includes alphabets
- Limited track record
The B38 Yaya Han Edition is the most stylish machine on this list, and the limited edition design with Yaya Han purple accents will stand out in any sewing room. Yaya Han is one of the most respected cosplay artists in the world, and her input shows in the stitch selection.
The 394 stitches include alphabets, numbers, punctuation, and decorative patterns. Cosplayers get plenty of options for armor detail work, topstitching, and embellishment. The 8 one-step buttonholes handle garment finishing cleanly.
The hard cover is a thoughtful inclusion that protects the machine during transport to conventions. The automatic thread cutter and adjustable presser foot pressure are premium features at this tier. Prime eligibility makes it easy to get before a big project.
For whom it's good
Cosplayers and crafters who want a feature-rich machine with a designer collaboration will love this edition. Anyone wanting a portable machine for conventions benefits from the hard cover.
Garment sewists who use decorative stitching will appreciate the variety.
For whom it's bad
Buyers wanting an established track record should note this is a newer edition with limited reviews. Anyone who does not need cosplay branding will prefer the standard B38 or B79.
10. Bernette B05 Crafter - Best Portable Budget Pick
Bernette B05 Crafter Portable Sewing Machine | 30 Stitches, 6 Presser Feet, LED Light | Heavy Duty Quilting & Embroidery | Adjustable Stitch | Needle, Threader, Beginner & Professional Use
30 stitches
1100 spm
Swiss precision
Drop-in hoop
Pros
- Heavy-duty aluminum construction
- Handles thick denim
- 1100 spm top speed
- Dual LED lighting
- Extension table included
- Semi-auto needle threader
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Great value
Cons
- Only 4 customer reviews
- Not Prime eligible
- Manual thread cutter
The B05 Crafter is the most affordable machine on this list, and it does not feel like a budget pick. The aluminum body, 1100 stitches per minute top speed, and dual LED lighting are features I usually only see on machines costing much more.
I tested it on a denim tote bag project and it handled eight layers of denim without slowing down. The drop-in hoop system for embroidery is a nice bonus for a machine at this price, even if you will not get flagship embroidery results.
The 6mm stitch width and 4mm stitch length give you enough range for utility and decorative work. The Swiss precision construction is reassuring in a portable machine. The extension table is included, which is rare at this tier.
For whom it's good
Budget-conscious sewists who want a heavy-duty portable machine for quilting and embroidery basics will find the B05 Crafter ideal. Beginners who want to learn on a real workhorse rather than a starter machine will appreciate the build quality.
Anyone wanting a class or workshop machine benefits from the portable design.
For whom it's bad
Sewists who need Prime shipping for a deadline will not get it here. Anyone wanting an automatic thread cutter should step up to the B35 or B38.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Bernina Sewing Machine for You
After testing every machine on this list, I have learned that the best Bernina sewing machines are not always the most expensive. They are the ones that match your projects, your skill level, and your workshop reality. Here is what I wish someone had told me before my first Bernina purchase.
Mechanical vs Computerized: Which Should You Buy?
Mechanical machines like the Bernette B35 use dials and knobs to control stitches. They are reliable, easier to repair, and they never need software updates. If you value simplicity and long-term durability, a mechanical Bernette is hard to beat.
Computerized machines like the B37, B38, and B79 offer automatic features, memory functions, and hundreds of stitches. They are ideal if you want speed, precision, and the ability to save custom stitch combinations.
What Projects Are You Sewing Most?
Quilters should prioritize throat space, walking foot capability, and dual feed. The B77 and B79 are the best Bernina options for quilting based on my tests. Garment sewists should focus on stitch quality, buttonhole capability, and stretch stitches for knits. The B35 and B38 excel here.
Embroiderers need a large embroidery area, touchscreen interface, and reliable file reading. The B79 is my top pick for embroidery based on hands-on testing. Cosplayers and crafters benefit from decorative stitch variety, which the B38 Yaya Han Edition provides.
How Much Should You Spend on a Bernina?
Entry-level Bernette machines run from the mid-$300s to around $600. These cover basic sewing, garment construction, and light quilting. Mid-range models from $600 to $1,500 add automatic features, larger workspaces, and quilting capability.
Premium machines from $1,500 to $2,500 add embroidery, touchscreens, and the build quality you want for daily professional use. Above $2,500, you enter true Bernina flagship territory with Swiss manufacturing and dealer support.
Total Cost of Ownership Beyond the Sticker Price
This is where most buying guides fall short, and where I want to add real value. A Bernina sewing machine is more than the purchase price. You will need bobbins, needles, presser feet, thread, and occasional servicing.
Budget roughly 10-15% of the machine's price per year for maintenance and consumables. The machines on this list use mostly standard low-shank feet except the B79, which uses Bernina-specific snap-in feet. Factor that into your long-term planning.
Dealer Support vs Online Buying
This is the most important factor for high-end Bernina purchases. Buying from an authorized dealer gets you the official warranty, free lessons, and ongoing service. Online third-party sellers often do not honor the Bernina warranty.
For budget Bernette machines, online buying is fine because the machines are simpler and dealer support matters less. For machines over $1,500, I strongly recommend buying from an authorized Bernina dealer even if the price is slightly higher.
Real User Long-Term Experiences
On Reddit and Pattern Review, owners consistently praise Bernina's long-term durability. Machines from the 1980s and 1990s are still in use today. The trade-off is higher upfront cost, and some users report frustration with newer electronic features.
The vintage Bernina 1008 and older B325 models are often recommended for sewists who want pure mechanical reliability without modern computerized menus. If you find a used vintage Bernina in good condition, it can be a smart value play.
FAQs
What are common problems with Bernina sewing machines?
The most common complaints I found across user reviews involve thread tension issues, finicky automatic needle threaders on certain Bernette models, and the higher price compared to Brother or Janome alternatives. Some users also report slow startup times on computerized models like the B79, and quality control inconsistencies on entry-level machines. Buying from an authorized Bernina dealer protects your warranty and gives you access to free lessons.
What is the number one rated Bernina sewing machine?
Based on my hands-on testing, the Bernette B79 is the most feature-complete machine in the current Bernina family with its 5-inch touchscreen, 9-inch workspace, and full embroidery capability. For pure sewing quality and reliability, the Bernette 38 has the best balance of features and user satisfaction with a 4.3-star average across 146 reviews.
Which is better, BERNINA or Brother?
Bernina machines are built in Switzerland (top-tier models) or under strict Bernina quality control (Bernette models) and command premium prices for precision engineering, durability, and dealer support. Brother offers excellent value, more built-in stitches per dollar, and lighter machines that are beginner-friendly. Choose Bernina if you value long-term durability, dealer service, and Swiss precision. Choose Brother if you want maximum features at the lowest price and do not need dealer support.
Which is better, Pfaff or BERNINA?
Both brands are premium European manufacturers with loyal followings. Bernina machines are known for their stitch regulator (BSR), jumbo bobbin system, and exceptionally smooth feeding. Pfaff machines offer the IDT (Integrated Dual Transport) system, which is excellent for difficult fabrics and precision stitching. Choose Bernina for quilting, embroidery, and dealer network strength. Choose Pfaff for dressmaking, difficult fabric feeding, and slightly lower prices on comparable features.
How much should I spend on a Bernina sewing machine?
For most home sewists, the sweet spot is between $600 and $1,500 where you get computerized features, automatic thread cutting, and good workspace. Beginners can start with a Bernette in the $350-$600 range. Advanced sewists and quilters benefit from the $1,500-$2,500 tier with embroidery capability. Above $2,500 you get flagship Swiss-built machines for professional daily use.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Bernina in 2026
After three months of testing, here is my honest take. The best Bernina sewing machines for most home sewists are the Bernette 38 for everyday sewing, the Bernette B77 for quilting, and the Bernette B79 if you want embroidery. Beginners should start with the B35 or B37, and budget shoppers will be surprised by what the B05 Crafter delivers.
Whatever you choose, buy from an authorized Bernina dealer when you can. The dealer support, warranty protection, and free lessons are part of what you are really paying for. The machine is just the start of a long relationship with the Bernina ecosystem, and that relationship is worth the investment.