Rating of the best knitting machines for 2022

Knitting is one of the most popular types of hobby not only among our grandmothers, but also among modern representatives of the beautiful half of humanity. And if earlier they knitted exclusively with their own hands with the help of special devices, today technological progress has made it possible to simplify and speed up the creative process of creating products from threads, offering special household appliances. Thanks to machines that knit themselves, any needlewoman can not only pursue her favorite hobby, but also easily create masterpieces that cannot be knitted by hand. This article describes the types and selection criteria for such devices, reviews their manufacturers and ranks the best knitting machines for 2022.

What kind there are knitting machines

 In the household appliances industry, there are several criteria by which it is customary to distinguish knitting machines, but their principle of operation is considered one of the fundamental ones. According to such a classifier, knitting devices can be:

• Manual - as a rule, these are inexpensive units, especially suitable for beginner needlewomen who want to improve the quality of knitted products and the speed of the knitting process itself. The standard design of such machines consists of two crests of hooks, so it is easy to master it with a printed instruction or a video with a master class.
• Mechanical (or punched card) - machines that differ from the previous category by the presence of a special shuttle and only one row of working hooks. The functionality of such devices includes manual laying of the thread and its automatic feeding by the shuttle. They are also able to create original drawings provided by the operation of a special plastic punched card.
• Computer-controlled - units equipped with a special PC connection unit. First of all, they are much more ergonomic than the previous types, due to the fact that they perform a pattern according to a given pattern. Also, the best models of such machines are equipped with options for self-counting loops, producing the necessary decrease, combining different shades of yarn and creating a pattern.

The classification of knitting machines is carried out depending on the distance between the needles. High-end devices (seventh class) are represented by the smallest gaps between the needles, which allows them to produce products from thin and delicate yarn. Units of the third class work with thick and coarse thread. For use at home, the best option is a universal device of the fifth category. There are machines of 10, 11 and 12 classes, but this is already industrial equipment for large ateliers and industries.

Another classification is related to the number of fountains. Single-hole machines provide one needle bed, with the help of which the whole process takes place. Two-hole units operate on the basis of two needle beds, the functionality of which is aimed at expanding the performance of the product.

What to look for when choosing a knitting machine

Given the huge range of models of knitting units, quite often users are faced with the question of which one is better to buy from them.First of all, it is worth remembering that the popularity of models of such machines is based on their quality characteristics and the reputation of the manufacturer. But at the same time, again, it is worth remembering that for a start it is important to understand for what purpose it will be used and how much you are willing to pay for it. Therefore, in order not to make mistakes when choosing a particular product, it is worth considering the following tips:

• If it is supposed to knit things for personal use at home, then it is better to purchase a single-line manual model. If you want to diversify the patterned potential, you should take a closer look at the budget two-hole punched card units. As a rule, the electronic type is suitable for knitting products for subsequent sale.
• It should be understood that the parts that make up the design can fail, and therefore, in order to be able to quickly search for them in the future, it is better to choose modern models that are actively being produced at this time.
• It is important to take into account the fact that professional devices cannot work with classic balls of yarn and require the additional purchase of special bobbins.
• In addition to the type of machine control, when choosing it, it is important to determine its class. It depends on it with what thickness of the thread the knitting unit will work. So, models of the third and fifth grade are ready to produce demanded things and are suitable for medium and thick yarns. But the seventh grade knits products from fine wool.

In any case, it is better to buy the equipment about which you know almost everything. Therefore, before the final choice, you should study in detail the description of the model you like and the reviews of real users, as well as watch detailed reviews and videos about the features of its installation and operation.All this will help not only to acquire the desired unit, but will also guide you in the question of how to recognize a fake.

Best manufacturers of knitting equipment and where to buy it

Most often, such equipment is bought in order to generate income from the production of knitted products. But such devices are useful for home use. They speed up the production process, improve the quality and appearance of finished items. When choosing them, it is recommended to take into account not only the characteristics, but also the criterion of the technician, which company is better. The following is a ranking of the best brands that produce knitting machines:

• Gamma is a Russian manufacturer that has been producing similar devices since Soviet times. Today the company specializes in the production of compact devices that are easy to transport.
• Addi is a German brand that produces high-quality, yet easy-to-use models of knitting machines. The company's products include the use of modern technologies (LCD display, row counter, etc.).
• Brother is a world famous Japanese manufacturer of sewing and knitting equipment. Produces high quality equipment equipped with innovative technologies. Constantly replenishes the range of products with new high-performance devices, the release of which takes into account the wishes of customers.
• Silver Seiko Co. Ltd. - a company that was one of the first (in 1977) to launch electronic components on the market, and to this day specializes in them. Brand products provide guaranteed quality and extensive functionality.
• Singer is an equally well-known brand represented by an American company with branches in many countries of the world. The main plant for the production of knitting equipment is located in France. The company offers reliable high quality equipment.

You can buy knitting machines in any specialized store of household appliances, usually in the department - sewing equipment. You can also order the model you like online in an online store that sells various types of household goods or specializes in selling branded products.

Top 5 Best Hand Knitting Machines

5th place KAKADU

In fifth place is the simplest manual knitting machine - KAKADU. It is represented by miniature dimensions (33 by 33 cm), low weight (1.75 kg) and an original bright design. In addition, it is quite simple to operate and as safe as possible, so it is suitable for both adult creativity and small needlewomen. The device works on a circular principle and includes a hook and knitting needles. In addition to the basic elements in the set, several skeins of colored yarn are supplied with it.

• small size and weight;
• seamless knitting, especially suitable for hats, doll clothes, etc.;
• simple and safe installation, suitable even for children's creativity;
• bright design;
• affordable price.

• not found.

4th Place Addi-Express Kingsize

The Addi-Express Kingsize is a mini knitting device designed and manufactured in Germany. It works on 46 needles, and has compact dimensions (35 cm in diameter), which allows it to be used even in confined spaces. A manual machine involves the direct participation of a person using knitting needles or a hook, but at the same time it is equipped with a row counter (a small LCD screen powered by a single little finger battery) and is able to function with yarn of different thicknesses.The design is equipped with a built-in mechanical switch to the mode of a flat or round web.

• compact dimensions;
• the presence of an electronic row counter;
• works with yarn of different thicknesses;
• significantly speeds up the knitting process and improves the appearance of the finished product;
• detailed and understandable instructions.

• overpriced for units of this category.

3rd place Prym MAXI

Prym MAXI from the oldest manufacturer in Germany is a high-quality hand knitting machine with a round shape, on the upper surface of which there are 44 hooks. It also provides a handle that rotates all of its moving elements. The design of the device also takes into account a mechanism for thread tension and a plastic handle for fixing it during operation. In the production of straight fabrics, 40 hooks work, and in round knitting - all 44. The model has a high anti-noise effect, which allows it to be used even at night. The only drawback is the lack of the possibility of adding and decreasing loops, since the original purpose of Prym MAXI was knitting scarves and sleeves. But despite this, the model can perfectly cope with the manufacture of blankets, ponchos, sweaters and other similar products. Behind the scenes, the presented unit is called a knitting mill.

• convenient and compact;
• provides the possibility of knitting numerous patterns for the hook;
• easy installation and management;
• fairly fast knitting process;
• especially suitable for circular knitting of sleeves;
• does not make noise.

• requires the use of certain types of yarn;
• not able to add and subtract rows, especially in circular knitting.

2nd place Silver Reed LK150

The Japanese quality of one of the best manufacturers of sewing equipment Silver is presented in the Reed LK150 manual type model. The unit provides a reliable and durable rectangular design that guarantees a long service life. The machine is equipped with 150 needles, often placed at a distance of 6 mm, which allows you to make fabrics up to 95 cm wide. With good performance, it is characterized by ease of operation, so it will be a good helper even for a beginner needlewoman. The manufacturer's recommendations indicate the purpose of the device for knitting cashmere and mohair products, but experience shows that it does an excellent job with other types of yarn.

• high quality knitting, finished products have a professional look;
• with the function of switching the operating mode with a specific yarn thickness (the divisions of the lever indicate are represented by the numbers of the knitting needles corresponding to the selected type of thread);
• a long warranty period from the manufacturer - 2 years;
• silent operation due to the carriage equipped with bearings;
• the presence of a row counter for complex patterns;
• complete set with additional needles and limiters for replacement.

• works only with basic weaving techniques;
• unlike other manual models, it has rather big dimensions and weighs a lot (5 kg);
• plastic case with low wear resistance;
• for the characteristics presented, the cost is very high.

1st place Ivushka

For several years now, the first place in the ranking of the best hand-knitting assistants has undoubtedly been occupied by the Russian-made model (GAMMA) - Ivushka.Devices of this brand were produced back in the USSR, the year of release of the very first of them is 1988. First of all, the machine is very durable, the case material is enameled metal. It is easy to master it, and you can perform on it simple, uncomplicated canvases with a front surface, and elastic bands, and even complex openwork patterns. The universal device does not require an electrical connection and works with various types of yarn. The model is represented by two rows of hooks, each of which has 33 pieces, in turn, the slats are connected by screw fasteners using springs. "Ivushka" has compact dimensions (length 30 cm) and low weight (1 kg), allows you to work simultaneously with threads of two colors and adjust the length of the loops.

• ergonomic design;
• durable wear-resistant housing;
• the ability to perform knitting of varying complexity (several types of weaving);
• simplicity of knitting technology;
• compactness and lightness;
• affordable price.

• relative to modern analogues, it is an outdated model, therefore it is inferior to many of them in terms of functionality.

top - Top 5 Mechanical/Punch Card Knitting Machines

5th place Silver Reed SK155

Reed SK155 is a punch card knitting device from a popular and reliable manufacturer, assembled in a French factory using modern technologies. Represents a single-loop lightweight design designed for daily use in everyday life. A class 3 device involves the use of thick threads, from which beautiful and high-quality things are obtained. Reed SK155 is equipped with 110 needles with a distance of 9 mm and is capable of knitting a pattern with a repeat of 12 loops.The functionality of the model includes adjusting the parameters of the fabric, and the automatic switch built into the design allows you to adjust the required knitting density. The unit includes an ergonomic and comfortable carriage that allows you to work simultaneously with two threads of different colors and thicknesses, while it receives commands to create a pattern in automatic mode. The Silver Reed LK-150 package provides almost all the parts necessary for its smooth operation: weights, deckers, row counter and a set of spare needles.

• easy to install and operate;
• knits quickly and practically without human participation;
• lightweight;
• provides for a wide range of yarn quality;
• has a manufacturer's warranty (1 year);
• includes most of the tools necessary for operation;
• reasonable price for a brand name.

• significant disadvantages were not identified, of the shortcomings, only the fact that the machine is single-hole can be called.

4th place Silver Reed SK 280

According to buyers, in the top 5 best mechanical "knitters" without a doubt, one more Silver model can be attributed - Reed SK 280. It represents the most popular modification of the fifth class, characterized by complete versatility - working with almost any yarn. The maximum productivity of the machine is provided by 200 needles with a distance of 4.5 mm. It is distinguished by an extensive set of weaving, including jacquard, delicate openwork, elastic and original terry technique.The Reed SK 280 comes with one fountain, but it is possible to purchase a second additional device marked SRP60N, which allows you to make more intricate and original patterns. Just like the LK-150, the SK 280 comes with everything you need: from a carriage to punched cards with interesting patterns.

• high speed knitting;
• technological possibilities of using additional carriages or fountains;
• with clear instructions and wide, but easily perceived functionality;
• an extensive range of varieties of weaving thanks to the equipment with a U-carriage.

• a high-quality and reliable unit, but with all its advantages, is no longer affordable.

3rd place Knitmaster SK360

The Knitmaster SK360 is a compact, mechanically controlled knitting machine from Japan with a guarantee of quality and reliability. The model is equipped with a durable and wear-resistant needle bar for 160 units with a distance of 4.5 mm, made of plastic with increased rigidity and belongs to the fourth category of machines. It is able to perceive threads of medium thickness and is characterized by a pattern repeat of 18 points. An outstanding feature of the device is the absence of a metal rail for pressing the threads and replacing it with special stainless steel elements. Also, its original characteristic is the built-in punchlace for the production of light openwork fabrics. Users note that the presented certified products are a universal device for knitting any single-line products without connecting the power supply.

• convenient small sizes;
• excellent quality of finished things;
• knits quickly regardless of the method of weaving;
• wear-resistant design due to the presence of elements made of plastic of special rigidity and metal;
• creates unique light openwork patterns;
• economical in terms of yarn consumption.

• difficulties in finding accessories.

2nd Place Brother KH-868/KR850

Brother KH-868/KR850 is another high-quality mechanical model with an impeccable reputation, supplied to the market by a well-known manufacturer of various sewing equipment from Japan. The device with a punched card is designed for experienced knitters, as it is equipped with two fountains and an extensive range of functions. Each of the knitting strips is represented by 200 needles with a gap of 4.5 mm and is able to work with threads characterized by parameters: 300 meters per 100 grams. The versatility of the yarn used allows the device to produce warm sweaters, unique models of dresses, and socks of various thicknesses. From the basic features of the device: a set of 20 punched cards, eight weaves on one fonture and a combination of textures when using both strips.

• thanks to the two provided two fountains, it is able to create unique combined patterns and drawings;
• universal fifth class;
• the ability to double the height of the pattern;
• high build quality and a guarantee of structural reliability;
• branded device with a complete set;
• significant range of yarn quality and pattern possibilities.

• non-compact dimensions;
• requires frequent and regular maintenance in the form of cleaning and lubrication of built-in elements.

1st place Veritas Creative KM245P1&KM245P2

According to numerous positive reviews, the Creative KM245P1 & KM245P2 model from Veritas is ranked first in punched card knitting devices. It is made in Germany and in terms of its productivity significantly exceeds its counterparts. The unit is equipped with 400 needles with a gap of 4.5 mm and is adapted to several modes of weaving yarn, while the choice of technology directly depends on the number of needle beds and needles used during knitting. With the presented double-loop device, an experienced needlewoman can easily produce original products in openwork and false-openwork, jacquard, hosiery and slip knitting techniques. Also in its potential is a wide range of varieties of elastic bands, a variant of single and dense weaving and a circular knitting mode. Thanks to the rapport of 24 loops, the model allows the punch card system to program a large number of original patterns. A class 5 universal machine is ready to produce high-quality and professional-looking products, it is only important to take into account a number of nuances for its use, which can be found in the instructions included with the kit.

• original and convenient placement of fountains;
• a wide range of possible weaves;
• a guarantee of quality and reliability from a German brand that has proven itself in the domestic market;
• produces professional canvases (if used correctly);
• circular knitting and multicolor patterns.

• inconvenience due to the lack of automatic selection of needles when creating a pattern;
• many nuances in operation (ban on the use of balls, control of the carriage and uniform winding of yarn on the spool).

top - 5 best computer knitting machines for 2022.

5th place Singer PC 2342

PC 2342 from the famous American manufacturer Singer is a high-quality electronic knitting machine, assembled using modern technologies. The dvukhfonturny unit of the fifth universal category is equipped with the push-button switch of modes of giving of needles. The control unit of the machine is presented in the form of a computer operating on the basis of Windows 9x with a program from ZinMos in Russian. Singer PC 2342 is the latest modification of the brand's knitting machines, released in the 2000s. Each fortune of the unit is made up of 180 needles, the distance between which is 5 mm. The kit also includes combs for 180, 150 and 50 loops and a large list of additional elements necessary for the smooth operation of the knitting machine (weights, spare needles, deckers, jacquard foot, transfer carriage, etc.). According to feedback from real users, computer-controlled knitting equipment Singer PC 2342 creates beautiful things with original weaving. With proper care, a solid assembly guarantees a long service life for the machine.

• with high performance, simple operation;
• reliable and durable design;
• wide regime potential (more than 10 types of weaving);
• quality certificate;
• complete set with all necessary details.

• high price for a relatively outdated model.

4th place SHIMA SEIKI SSG 122 SN 5

SEIKI SSG 122 SN 5 is an electronic flat knitting model of the fifth category from the Japanese company SHIMA.A universal device that allows you to make single seamless things from soft threads of various thicknesses, as well as knitwear from coarse yarn. The integrity of the products or their minimum sewing processing is ensured by the WHOLEGARMENT technology embedded in the machine. The main feature of the machine can be called an innovative system of functions, thanks to which raw materials are saved, the knitting process proceeds quickly, and high-quality clothes appear at the final stage. Knitting accuracy and thread tension are controlled by the built-in Pulldown technology.

• equipping the fountain with compound needles, which saves yarn consumption;
• ease of installation and management;
• Pulldown device for smooth thread tension;
• production of integral (seamless) things;
• high efficiency of the carriage;
• suitable for thick yarn.

• not found.

3rd place BROTHER KH 930/KR 850

KH 930/KR 850 is an easy to install and use quality guaranteed model from the Japanese brand BROTHER. The unit provides a durable and wear-resistant design and features close to professional equipment. Included with the machine is an openwork core, thanks to which an original picture or pattern is created on the product. KH 930/KR 850 is equipped with a built-in intarsia and if you purchase a template in addition, you can significantly simplify the process of creating a pattern. A significant feature of the machine is the presence of a memory that stores the drawings developed by the user. The model is characterized by high power and allows you to knit several products per day.

• compact dimensions;
• an extensive set of functions;
• the presence of large memory for patterns (up to 665 patterns);
• easy to figure out how to install and how to use;
• an extensive set of functions;
• structural strength;
• compliance of the quality of finished products with store things;
• warranty period from the manufacturer;
• branded products with a proven track record.

• requires regular maintenance in terms of cleaning and lubricating all moving parts;
• hard to find for sale.

2nd place BROTHER KH 970/KR 850

KH 930/KR 850 is another high-quality model from the Japanese company BROTHER, which deserves an honorable place in the ranking of the best knitting machines. It makes clothes and other products with professional design and quality. At the same time, step-by-step instructions are provided for it, according to which it is quite easy to set up and operate. The machine operates almost silently, provides a wide range of built-in technologies that create high comfort when working with it. The KH 930/KR 850 is equipped with a computer attachment, a template device and an LCD display that allows you to adjust the pattern parameters. Unlike the model on the previous line, it has a wider memory of up to 750 patterns (244 thousand loops). The repeat of the device consists of 200 needles, the distance between which is 4.5 mm. The unit belongs to the fifth class and is universal for the home.

• professional quality of finished items;
• branded goods with a long-term manufacturer's warranty;
• the presence of a built-in set-top box, a pattern device and an LCD display;
• large memory for patterns;
• a wide range of provided technical capabilities;
• durable wear-resistant design with a monoblock metal needle bar;
• high knitting speed;
• does not require special skills for installation and operation.

• not found. 

1st place Silver Reed SK 840/SRP60N

On the first line in the rating of high-quality and reliable computer-controlled knitting machines can be attributed to the popular two-line model Reed SK 840 / SRP60N from the world famous brand Silver. The characteristics of the technique are represented by 500 steel monoblock needles with a step distance of 4.5 mm. She is able to support rapports designed for a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 200 needles, which allows her to create patterns of any complexity. The only caveat is the need for additional software purchases. But, in turn, thanks to him, any user will be able to independently generate any patterns and thereby make products according to the images they like. The SK 840/SRP60N also includes an additional U-carriage for making openwork.

• reliability and manufacturer's warranty;
• extensive functionality;
• durable wear-resistant unit with a housing made of metal and plastic;
• ergonomics;
• universality provided by belonging to the fifth category;
• high quality of finished products;
• a wide range of weave options (various elastic bands, hosiery, circular, slip, press and much more);
• the ability to create patterns for personal requests.

• the need for additional software purchases;
• reacts sharply to power surges, which requires the use of an uninterruptible power supply;
• the machine is sensitive to the quality of the yarn;
• not a budget price.

Summing up

Which model of knitting equipment to choose for the home depends on the personal preferences of each needlewoman. The cost of hand-held devices is the lowest (the average price starts from 2000 rubles), but their performance is quite limited. If there is a desire or need for knitting colored fabrics, then it is better to choose double-sided devices. In any case, before buying, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the technical characteristics of the unit and, just as important, study the reviews of real users about it.