Machine quilting can take many forms, different textures, effects and detail. You can completely change the finished effect of you quilt top by your choice of method and thread.
Traditionally a slightly heavier weight of cotton thread has been used, labelled as Machine Quilting Thread a 40wt Cotton has become the 'goto' machine quilting thread. If you are trying to do very fine stipple with short stitch length you would struggle for a good finish; try a 50wt Aurifil, 60wt Mettler or even a #100 Silk thread.
A simple chunky quilt or a flannel lap quilt may look good with a heavy 28 wt or even 12wt. If you are embellishing the top, polyester or metallic are options to look at.