help compare sewing machines

[starryskies143.livejournal.com]

I've never had a sewing machine and am planning to buy one over this weekened. I am a beginner, but I would like a sewing machine that is sturdy and would last over the years. I've been looking around online and there are so many descriptions for sewing machines that I do not understand. I've read posts saying, "You get what you pay for" and that, "Wal*mart is the devil." Is Wal*mart really that bad? I mean if I got a $200 dollar one there, would it still break?



This one is $198 (from wal*mart)



Description

37 built-in stitches
62 stitch functions, ranging from the basic blind hem, overlock and elastic to the more specialized shell tuck, zipper insertion and gathering to the highly specialized decorative hem, bridging and link stitch
One-step, auto-size automatic buttonholer creates perfectly uniform buttonholes every time
Built-in fast needle threader
Quick-set top-load bobbin
Needle position adjustment
Built-in blind hem and stretch stitches provide a professional finish on a variety of fabrics
Free arm/flat bed convertible sewing surface
Stitch balance control assures equal stitch density on both sides of buttonhole
Accessories for zipper insertion, darning, buttonholes and button sewing included
Twin needle with extra spool pin for 2-color stitching
Automatic bobbin winder for fast, easy winding
Electronic speed control
Snap-on presser feet
Stitch width control
Stitch length control
Main power switch
Forward and reverse sewing
Adjustable thread tension control
Lightweight and compact with built-in handle for portability, foot pedal included
25-year limited warranty
Unit dimensions: 16.8"L x 7"W x l2.8"H
UL/CSA listed
Model No. XL-6562



$129 from Joanns

With all the essential functions and such an affordable price, the White 1418 is perfect for the beginning or novice sewer!
18 stitch functions for lightweight fabrics, diecast aluminum construction, built-in bobbin winder
free arm design for professional results on sleeves, cuffs & hems, twin needle sewing,
built-in pressure adjuster to control needle, variable speed foot controller
Accessories, dust cover and instruction booklet included


Oh, I hope the pictures aren't too big and that someone decides to help me. The first one didn't have any reviews because I guess Wal*mart doesn't allow reviews, but the second one got mixed review from the Joanns site. I don't know. The first one looks like it could sew more. Maybe I'm impressed by the picture of the stitches it could do. I know nothing about this. Sorry to bother and thanks in advance.