I've had my Homier brand 7x12 for about 8 years now.  Only difference between it and the HF model is the color.  While having a larger machine might be nice, it hasn't really been a major issue.  2 things to get right off: a QCTP and a tailstock camlock.  Both make using the machine so much nicer, that I wish I'd spent the money a long time ago.  I have run into some trouble trying to make parts that are really too big for the machine.  A larger chuck would easily remedy that, but I haven't gotten one yet.  Someday I''ll break down and get a 4" or 5" chuck.

I do know that many of the larger machines use gear change to change the speed, and that's something I don't like.  Having the variable speed is really nice, and allows the beginner to find that sweet spot for cutting of various materials and getting the finishes you want.  It also allows going from roughing to finish cut to polish with just a twist of the knob.

As others have stated, you will have to figure out tearing the thing down to clean off the protective grease (called "dragon fat" by some), and learn to adjust it.  Yes, it takes more fiddling than some bigger machines, but I think that's all part of the hobby.  So far I haven't found a really compelling reason to get anything different.