Some are definitely better than others for heavy-duty projects, though most beginner sewing machines are meant for thinner fabrics. That makes sense given that little kids and beginners should start with very simple projects that focus on skills like even stitching.
In general, the heavier sewing machines with metal frames are best for thick fabrics. We highly recommend computerized sewing machines like the Eversewn Charlotte and the Janome 8100, which have highly specialized functions for quilting and home decor. These functions are clear signs of a heavy-duty sewing machine since quilting and home decor typically require thick, multilayers of fabric. These machines have additional features, such as high SPM (stitches per minute) and adjustable thread tension, which are essential for powering through thick fabrics.