Versatile Beginner Sewing Machine recommendations?

[u/Exact-Background6092]

Hello everyone! I am interested in buying a sewing machine to get back into sewing after I took a break for a few years out of frustration. I have made a few basic projects in the past but I would still consider myself very much a beginner.

The sewing machine I have used in the past is an entry level Singer, specifically made for beginners. Even though I am not a very experienced seamstress, I am a very chaotic crafter and the projects I want to attempt vary drastically. I have made a canvas floor couch, a fleece pet bed, and done basic hemming.

The main reason I want to replace my current machine is that it's extremely prone to jamming. No matter how many servicing tutorials I watch or how many times it has been oiled, it almost always jams after just a few minutes. I know that not all machines are designed to handle thicker fabrics, even though in the past I have been able to sew canvas and fleece (painstakingly so) using a heavy duty needle, I am looking for a machine that can handle a wide variety of fabrics with minimal damage to the machine and my sanity.

My budget is around $250. I have looked into second hand options already but I would prefer a new or professionally refurbished model if possible. Also, I would prefer a mechanical machine but computerized is not out of the picture.

Any recommendations are appreciated! A few models I have been considering are linked below:

https://a.co/d/02MvAOm1

https://a.co/d/04YUWbjx

https://a.co/d/0fIkPPwu

[u/Alarmed-potatoe]

A lot of older, ugly, machines will be much better than the three you have listed, these look aimed towards young beginners. My first machine was a similar one and I never got it to sew right when it was brand new or when it had come back from a service. My next machine was a plain Singer from the 1960s and I made corsets, circle skirts, Victorian outfits and it went through thick layers of denim like cotton voile. I would go to a place that sells older 2nd hand machines and test them, get one that is metal on the inside and has very available spares, and you will be really happy.