Rating of the best knitting machines for 2020

Knitting is one of the most popular types of hobby not only among our grandmothers, but also among modern representatives of the fair 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 accelerate the creative process of creating products from threads by offering special household appliances. Thanks to machines that knit themselves, any needlewoman can not only engage in 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 compiles a rating of the best knitting machines for 2020.

What kind there are knitting machines

 In the household appliance 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, the devices that knit 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 hook combs, so it is easy to master it using printed instructions or a video with a master class.
• Mechanical (or punch 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 thread laying and its automatic feeding by the shuttle. They are also able to create original drawings, provided with the work of a special plastic punch 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 carry out 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.

Knitting machines are classified according to the distance between the needles. High-end devices (seventh grade) are represented by the smallest gaps between the needles, which allows them to produce products from fine and delicate yarns. Aggregates of the third class work with thick and coarse thread.For home use, the best option is a universal device of the fifth category. There are cars 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-circuit machines provide one needle bed, with the help of which the whole process takes place. Double-circuit 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 assortment of models of knitting units, users are often 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 specific product, it is worth considering the following tips:

• If you intend to knit things for personal use at home, then it is better to purchase a single-loop hand model. If you want to diversify the pattern potential, you should take a closer look at the budget double-circuit 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 structure may fail, and therefore, in order to subsequently be able to quickly search for them, it is better to choose modern models that are actively being produced at this time.
• It is also 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 how thick the thread the knitting unit will work with. So, the models of the third and fifth class are ready to produce popular items 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 that you know practically everything about. Therefore, before the final choice, it is worthwhile to study in detail the description of the model you like and 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 also guide you in the question of how to recognize a fake.

The best manufacturers of knitting equipment and where to buy it

Most often, such a technique is bought in order to generate income from the production of knitted products. But such devices are also 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 rating 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 operate knitting machine models. The company's products provide for 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. Is a company that was one of the first (in 1977) to launch electronic units 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 knitting machinery manufacturing plant is located in France. The company offers high quality reliable technology.

You can buy knitting machines at any specialized home appliance store, as a rule, in the department - sewing equipment. You can also order your favorite model 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

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

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

• not found.

4th place Addi-Express Kingsize

Addi-Express Kingsize is a mini knitting machine designed and manufactured in Germany. It operates on 46 needles and has a compact size (35 cm in diameter), which allows it to be used even in confined spaces. A manual machine assumes 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 one little finger battery) and is capable of functioning with yarn of different thicknesses. The design is equipped with a built-in mechanical switch for smooth or round web mode.

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

• overpriced for units of this category.

3rd place Prym MAXI

Prym MAXI from the oldest manufacturer from Germany is a high-quality round-shaped hand knitting machine with 44 hooks on the upper surface. It also provides a handle that rotates all of its movable elements. The design of the device also includes a thread tension mechanism and a plastic handle for fixing it during operation. 40 hooks work in the production of straight blades, and all 44 hooks in round knitting. The model has a high anti-noise effect, which allows you to use it even at night. The only drawback can be called the lack of the ability to add and subtract loops, since the original purpose of Prym MAXI was to knit 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 ability to knit numerous patterns for the hook;
• easy installation and management;
• pretty 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 or 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 hand-held model. The unit is designed with a robust and robust rectangular design to ensure long service life.The machine is equipped with 150 needles, often spaced at a distance of 6 mm, which makes it possible to produce canvases up to 95 cm wide.With good performance, it is characterized by ease of use, so it will be a good helper even for a novice needlewoman. The manufacturer's recommendations indicate the purpose of the device for knitting cashmere and mohair products, but experience shows that it copes well 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 (divisions of the lever are indicated by the numbers of the knitting needles corresponding to the selected type of thread);
• long warranty period from the manufacturer - 2 years;
• silent operation due to the equipping of the carriage with bearings;
• the presence of a row counter for complex patterns;
• complete set with additional needles and stops for replacement.

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

1st place Ivushka

The first place in the rating of the best assistants in knitting with hand control for several years has undoubtedly been occupied by a Russian-made model (by GAMMA) - "Ivushka". Devices of this brand were produced back in the USSR, the year of production of the very first of them was 1988. First of all, the machine is very durable, the body material is enamelled metal. It is easy to master it, and you can perform simple uncomplicated canvases with the front satin stitch on it, 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 contains 33 pieces, in turn, the strips 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;
• robust wear-resistant housing;
• the ability to knit of varying complexity (several types of weaving);
• simplicity of knitting technology;
• compactness and lightness;
• affordable price.

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

Top - 5 best mechanical / punch card knitting machines

5th place Silver Reed SK155

Reed SK155 is a punched card knitting machine from a popular and reliable manufacturer, assembled at a French factory using modern technologies. Represents a lightweight single-circuit design, designed for daily use in everyday life. A class 3 device provides for 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 able to knit a pattern with a repeat of 12 loops. The functional of the model includes adjustment of the parameters of the fabric, and an 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 color and thickness, while it receives commands to create a pattern in automatic mode. The Silver Reed LK-150 package includes 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 intervention;
• lightweight;
• provides a wide range of yarn quality;
• has a manufacturer's warranty (1 year);
• includes in the kit most of the tools necessary for operation;
• adequate cost for a branded item.

• no significant drawbacks have been identified; of the shortcomings, one can only name the fact that the machine is single-circuit.

4th place Silver Reed SK 280

In the opinion of buyers, one more model of the Silver company - Reed SK 280 can undoubtedly be included in the top 5 best mechanical knitters - the 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 there is a possibility of purchasing a second additional device labeled 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 carriages to punched cards with interesting patterns.

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

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

3rd place Knitmaster SK360

Knitmaster SK360 is a small mechanical knitting unit from Japan with a guarantee of quality and reliability. The model is equipped with a durable and wear-resistant needle bed 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 capable of accepting threads of medium thickness and is characterized by a pattern repeat of 18 points. A distinguishing feature of the device is the absence of a metal rail for clamping 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-loop products without connecting the power supply.

• convenient small size;
• excellent quality of finished items;
• 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 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 fonts and an extensive set of functions. Each of the knitting strips is represented by 200 needles with a gap of 4.5 mm and is capable of working with threads with parameters: 300 meters per 100 grams. The versatility of the yarn used provides the device with the ability to produce both warm sweaters, unique dress models, and socks of various thicknesses. From the basic features of the device: a set of 20 punched cards, eight weaves on one pattern and a combination of textures when using both planks.

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

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

1st place Veritas Creative KM245P1 & KM245P2

According to numerous positive reviews, the Creative KM245P1 & KM245P2 from Veritas is ranked first in knitting punching devices. It was made in Germany and significantly surpasses its counterparts in its productivity. The unit is equipped with 400 needles with a gap of 4.5 mm and is adapted to several modes of yarn weaving, while the choice of technology directly depends on the number of beds and needles used during knitting. With the presented double-loop device, an experienced needlewoman will be able to easily produce original products in openwork and false openwork, jacquard, hosiery and slip knitting techniques. Also in its potential lies a wide range of varieties of elastic bands, a variant of single and dense weaving and a circular knitting mode. Thanks to the 24-loop repeat, the model allows the punch card system to program a large number of original designs. A universal machine of class 5 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 in the kit.

• original and convenient placement of fonts;
• 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 of operation (a ban on the use of balls, control of the carriage and uniform winding of the yarn on the bobbin).

Top - 5 best computer knitting machines for 2020

5th place Singer PC 2342

PC 2342 from the well-known American manufacturer Singer presents a high-quality electronic knitting machine, assembled using modern technologies. The double-circuit unit of the fifth universal category is equipped with a push-button switch for needle feed modes. The machine control unit is presented in the form of a computer operating on the basis of Windows 9x OS with a program from ZinMos in Russian. Singer PC 2342 is the most recent modification of the presented brand's knitting machines, released in the 2000s. Each fortune of the unit is composed of 180 needles, the distance between which is 5 mm. The kit also includes typesetting 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, dekkers, jacquard foot, transfer carriage, etc.). According to the reviews of real users, the knitting technique on the computer control Singer PC 2342 creates beautiful things with original weaving. With proper care, a secure assembly guarantees a long service life.

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

• high price for a relatively outdated model.

4th place SHIMA SEIKI SSG 122 SN 5

SEIKI SSG 122 SN 5 - 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, and knitwear from coarse yarn. The integrity of the products or their minimum sewing processing is ensured by the WHOLEGARMENT technology incorporated 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 at the final stage high quality clothing appears. Control of knitting accuracy and thread tension is carried out by the built-in Pulldown technology.

• equipping the fountain with compound needles that save yarn consumption;
• ease of installation and management;
• Pulldown device providing smooth thread tension;
• manufacturing of integral (seamless) things;
• high efficiency of the carriage;
• suitable for thick yarns.

• not found.

3rd place BROTHER KH 930 / KR 850

KH 930 / KR 850 is an easy to install and use model with guaranteed quality from the Japanese brand BROTHER. The unit provides a robust and durable design and features close to professional technology. The set comes with an openwork corset, thanks to which an original picture or pattern is created on the product. The 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 memory that stores the drawings developed by the user. The model is characterized by high power and allows you to knit several items a day.

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

• requires regular maintenance in terms of cleaning and lubricating all moving parts;
• difficult to find on 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. She 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 configure and operate. The machine works 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 patterning 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 device rapport 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 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;
• robust, 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

The demanded double-loop model Reed SK 840 / SRP60N from the world famous brand Silver can be attributed to the first line in the rating of high-quality and reliable computer-controlled knitting machines. The characteristics of the technique are represented by 500 steel monoblock needles with a pitch 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 drawings of any complexity. The only caveat is the need to purchase additional software. 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. Also SK 840 / SRP60N includes an additional U-carriage for making openwork.

• reliability and manufacturer's warranty;
• extensive functionality;
• robust wear-resistant unit with a metal and plastic housing;
• ergonomics;
• versatility 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 purchase;
• reacts sharply to changes in the power grid, which makes it necessary to use an uninterruptible power supply;
• the machine is sensitive to the quality of the yarn;
• not a budget price.

Let's sum up

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