For many avid knitters, the act isn’t just something they use to pass the time. It is a skill that requires regular practice to be able to master, and the end product is a well-crafted knit. To be able to create masterpieces, even with the right skills, you need the right tools, and a knitting needle is one of them. For both round and flat knits, you will require a circular knitting needle, and I have reviewed some of the top brands that are dependable.
Over the years, I have had the opportunity of trying a couple of crotchet needles. And while there are many available, I have come to find that not all of them are suitable for circular knits. While they are a lot different from sewing needles, circular needles are useful when working on flat and round pieces where you need the stitches to be tighter. Without any further delays, let’s get started with the review.
Table of Contents
Which Circular Knitting Needles Are Best?
- Best Low Budget Pick – CLOVER Takumi Bamboo Circular Knitting Needles
A durable needle suitable for circular knits and can serve as the right choice for both professional and beginner knitters on a low budget. - Best Value for Money – Celine lin Stainless Circular Knitting Needles
A more durable option that is highly functional and reasonably priced and suitable for those looking for a long term option. - Best for Professionals – Knit Picks Interchangeable Knitting Needles
Made with the best of materials and includes all the size options needed to work on any piece. - Best for Beginners – Knitters Pride Dreamz Deluxe Interchangeable Needle Set
Flexible and easy to use crochet needles suitable for beginners and first-time knitters. - Best for Custom Jobs – Ksmxos Professional Crochet Hook Weave Set
A complete set for knitting needles of varying sizes so you can always find one that is suited for any particular knit. - Best for Kids – Exquiss Bamboo Circular Knitting Needles with Colored Tube
These sets of colorful bamboo knitting needles are bright enough to get kids interested in knitting. - Best for Chunky Yarn – 24-inch Jumbo Wooden Circular Knitting Needles
An excellent choice of needles for super chunky knitting projects. - Best for Quick Knits – Addi Turbo Circular Knitting Needles
The weight, temperature, and slickness on this needle make it best for quick knitting projects. - Best for Lace Knits – ChiaoGoo Twist Red Lace Interchangeable Set
You get a surgical stainless steel needle with lace tips suitable for all sizes of lace knits. - Editors Pick – Vancens Circular Knitting Needles Set
An all-round knitting needles suitable for any project and easy to handle for both professionals and beginners. - Best High-End – Love2Knit Interchangeable Knitting Needles
Durable needles with the right cord length and also easy on the hands. - Best for Delicate Knits – CO-Z Circular Knitting Needle Set
You get needles with handles that are ideal for arthritic hands with an easy to pick color coding. - Best for Knitting Gift – Bamboo Circular Knitting Needles
You get a set of circular knitting needles with a colorful accessory bag to go with it. - Best Interchangeable Set – Lykke Driftwood Interchangeable Set
Includes circular needles that can be interchanged with many types of cord.
Circular Knitting Needles Comparison Chart 2021
You can find a comparison of some of the top circular knitting needles that are available for purchase in the chart below.
Best Circular Knitting Needles Reviews 2021
You can read up on the features that make these needles stand out from the numerous options available to you in the review below.
CLOVER Takumi Bamboo Circular Knitting Needles
(Best Low Budget Pick)
The CLOVER knitting needles is a high-quality product that features bamboo tips for stress-free knitting. They are available in different size options, but I find the size 8 to be more suited for circular knits. They are easy on the hands, and the bamboo tip prevents the yarns from slipping off while using the needles.
They are suitable for all types of knits, including hats, sweaters, or a good pair of shorties for kids. To prevent knits from twisting, I have to ensure that the stitches hang towards the center of the piece. But this is a minute price to pay for my knitting projects. I also found the size 4, 5, and 8 needles to be perfect for a regular yarn, while the size 10 works well for bulky woolen yarn. For its reasonable price and quality, it is my top pick if you are shopping for a low budget option. This video gives you a clearer insight into the CLOVER knitting needles.
Key Features
- Bamboo knitting needles
- 16 Inch circular knitting needles
Pros
- Available in different sizes
- Suitable for all types of yarn
- Reasonably priced
- High-quality needles
Cons
- Knits twist easily
Celine Lin Stainless Circular Knitting Needles
(Best Value for Money)
Available in 11 different sizes, the Celine Lin needles feature a needle length of 5.3 inches and wire length of 21.4 inches, which amounts to 32 inches in total. Each of the items includes high-quality stainless steel that is capable of withstanding everyday use, making it a long-lasting product.
What you get is an inexpensive circular needle that is versatile and capable of meeting your needs. This is why it is my top pick if you need a product that will give you good value for your money.
Key Features
- 32 inches length
- High-quality stainless steel
- 16-inch circular knitting needles
Pros
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Good value for money
- Includes a storage case
Cons
- Improper sizes in the case
Knit Picks Interchangeable Knitting Needles
(Best for Professionals)
If you are an expert knitter or in the business of making handcrafted knit pieces, then you may want to consider these needles from Knit Picks. It includes nine pairs of wood square needle tips and all the accessories for any professional knitter. It comprises four black cables, with two each in 24 inches and 32 inches’ length, and also includes eight black end caps, two metal tightening keys, and a vinyl storage case.
The flexible memory free cables move with stitches and easily connects with the needle tips for snag-free knitting. I find the wood to be warm on the hand and not slippery or sticky as the Nickle plated or acrylic options. It also works well for a range of knitting types, including flat, circular, and magic loop knits. You can learn more about Knit Picks needles here.
Key Features
- Nine pairs of knitting needles
- Four black cables of varying sizes
- Eight black end caps
- Two metal tightening keys
- A vinyl storage case
Pros
- Suitable for circular, flat, and magic loop knits
- Memory free cables move easily
- Non-slippery or sticky needles
- Cables connect easily to the tip
Cons
- Not quite interchangeable
Knitters Pride Dreamz Deluxe Needles
(Best for Beginners)
The Knitters Pride is my favorite choice of a needle if you are looking to practice knitting. It includes nine pairs of interchangeable needles available in different sizes. It also includes various color-coded cords, a set of size markers, four cord keys, and eight end caps. So you can quickly begin with your lessons.
They are suitable for circular knits, and can still be used to knit the magic loop. The cords are flexible and easy to use, and they are equally laminated, so the yarns don’t get snagged. Overall, I find them to be a lot easy on the hands and don’t leave you sore like when working with aluminum or steel needles. This video elaborates more on what to expect.
Key Features
- Nine pairs of interchangeable needles
- Markers, cord keys, and end caps
- Circular knitting needles
Pros
- Beginner-friendly
- Size options
- Flexible and easy to use cords
- Yarns don’t get snagged
Cons
- No cord connectors
Ksmxos Professional Knitting Needles
(Best for Custom Jobs)
Made from a hard stainless steel body and wire, the Ksmxos is my top choice to work with custom orders that require precision. It includes 11 different needle sizes so I can always find the right size for any type of stitching. When the length of the needle and wire is combined, you get 32 inches, which is long enough to work on afghans, sweaters, and other lengthy pieces.
The tips are blunt, which reduces the margin for error, and the surface is polished, which makes it slide smoothly on the hands and yarns.
Key Features
- Stainless steel body and wire
- 11 needles attached
- Smooth polished surface
- Storage case
Pros
- Durable needles
- Easy to use
- Yarn doesn’t slide easily
Cons
- Short tapered tips
Exquiss Circular Knitting Needles
(Best for Kids)
Another quality product worth checking out is the Exquiss circular knitting needles. The pack includes 18 carbonized needles with a colorful plastic tube, which makes it highly attractive to kids. It also comes with accessories such as scissors, measuring rule, plastic sewing needles and pins, and a variety of makers to help with stitches.
You get a variety of straight and circular needles in the pack and all other knitting accessories, which makes it equally one of the best circular knitting needles for beginners. You can find out more about Exquiss Needles in this video.
Key Features
- 18 Carbonized needles
- Weaving tools and case
- Circular bamboo knitting needles
Pros
- Easy to use
- Good choice for kids
- Includes accessories
- Durable knitting needles
- Different sizes available
Cons
- Not for professionals
24 Inch Circular Knitting Needles
(Best for Chunky Yarn)
If you are interested in creating pieces with chunky yarn, then you may want to consider this 24-inch circular knitting needles. It includes three needles available in US sizes 19, 35, and 50 that run at a length of 47 inches from top to bottom. It features a smooth wooden finish that allows for easy gliding of the stitches. The tapered tips and no twist cable ensures that you complete your projects quickly.
Besides, you get a storage holder for your needles and knitting accessories, so you don’t have to spend extra on a case.
Key Features
- Smooth wood finish
- Three needles of different sizes
- Tapered tips
- Circular needle holder
Pros
- Suitable for chunky yarn
- Circular knitting needles
- Size options
- Sturdy needles
Cons
- Poor needle sizing
Addi Turbo Circular Knitting Needles
(Best for Quick Knits)
If you love to make your knits in the shortest possible time, then you may want to consider the Addi Turbo circular knitting needles. They are constructed for knitting projects where speed and precision are of utmost importance. It works well for lace knits and small projects like socks and other types of crafts. The tip features brass material and is equally tapered and includes blue cords and snag-free joins from Skacel. You also enjoy a lifetime warranty on any defect from the manufacturer, so you can be sure to get your money’s worth. Checkout this video should enlighten you more on the Addi Turbo needles.
Key Features
- One circular knitting needle
- Tapered brass tip
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- Blue cord and snag-free joins
Pros
- Easy to use
- Size options
- Suitable for quick projects
- Snag-free cords
- Lifetime warranty included
Cons
- Too many imitations available
ChiaoGoo Red Lace Circular Knitting Needles
(Best for Lace Knits)
If you don’t mind knitting needles made from surgical stainless steel, then you may consider the ChiaoGoo range of circular knitting needles. There are different types available, but the chances are that you can easily find one that meets your specifications. Also included in the pack are coded cable connectors, T-shaped tightening keys, needle gauge, stitch markers, end stoppers, and a fabric case for storage.
The sharp points make it easy to pick up yarns, which can be useful for knitting large round lacey table clothes. While they are great for lace knits, they also work well on other types of knitting projects. You can learn more about these needles here.
Key Features
- T-shaped tightening keys
- Needle gauge
- Coded cable connectors
- Storage case
- Stitch markers
- End stoppers
Pros
- Suitable for lace knits
- Easy to use
- Accessories included
- Different size options
Cons
- Occasionally arrives with missing pieces
Vancens Circular Knitting Needles
(Editor’s Pick)
If you love bamboo knitting needles and need a quality product for circular knits of all kinds, then you may want to consider this one from Vancens. It is my top pick if you want a needle that wouldn’t disappoint halfway into your project. I have been using them for a while now and can say they are both easy to use and durably made, making them a good investment for the avid knitter like myself.
In the set are 18 different sized needles that can work with all knitting projects, including socks, mittens, scarfs, gloves, and hat. Also included are accessories such as scissors, measuring tape, plastic lacing needles, crotchet hook and locking stitches all in a small plastic bag.
Key Features
- Beautiful colored bamboo needles
- Circular knitting needles
- Accessories included
- Designer brand needles
Pros
- Easy to use
- Features extra tools
- Storage bag
- Available in different sizes
Cons
- Breaks easily
- Yarn sticks to tubing
Love2Knit Interchangeable Knitting Needles
(Best High-End)
If you are familiar with the Denise range of knitting and crochet tools, you would certainly appreciate this one from Love2Knit. It includes all the quality features that the Denise products are notable for. And these include five pairs of needle heads, three cord length, two end buttons, one extender for storing stitches, and a handy vinyl case for holding all your accessories.
What you get are circular knitting needles with the right length, that is easy to grip on and use for all types of knitting projects, which is why it is my top choice if you are shopping for a high-end product. You can find out more about these needles in this video.
Key Features
- Locking connection
- Five pairs of needle head
- Three cord length
- Two end buttons
- Handy vinyl case
Pros
- Easy to use
- Durable needles
- Size options available
- Includes accessories
- Storage case attached
Cons
- Plastic may not work for everyone
CO-Z Circular Knitting Needles
(Best for Delicate Knits)
The double-pointed needles from CO-Z could be useful for delicate knitting projects where you don’t need to drop stitches. It includes 13 pairs of aluminum interchangeable needles for different types of projects. The aluminum handles make it easy to grip, making it suitable for those with arthritic hands. The aluminum tips don’t have any rough edges, so it is almost impossible for yarn to slip or snag.
The color-coded needles make it easy to pick the right sizes for your project. It is also lightweight and fatigue-free, making it suitable for long knitting hours.
Key Features
- 13 pairs of needle
- Aluminum handle
- Aluminum tips
- Color-coded needles
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to grip
- Includes accessories
- Yarn hardly slips or snag
- Includes storage case
Cons
- Breaks easily
Bamboo Circular Knitting Needles
(Best for Knitting Gift)
If you are looking for the right knitting set for a gift, then you can consider this Bamboo circular knitting needles. The needles are made from durable bamboo that is lightweight, smooth, and attached to a colorful plastic tube. It includes all the needle sizes needed by both beginners and expert knitters and comes in a beautiful bag that makes this one an outright steal.
Included in the purchase are holders, stitch markers, needlepoint protectors, clips, and measuring tapes, which makes it a suitable gift for all ages and skill levels.
Key Features
- Bamboo circular knitting needles
- Accessories included
- 10 pair of knitting needles
Pros
- Easy to use
- Size options available
- Includes necessary gear
- Beautiful storage bag
Cons
- Items missing in the case
Lykke Driftwood Interchangeable Gift Set
(Best Interchangeable Set)
In the past, I tried a couple of interchangeable needles but found it hard to fit them with many of my cords. That was until I got this set from a Black Friday deal on Amazon a while back. I like that they are easy to fit with my Addi and Knitter’s Pride Interchangeable cords. It is also easy on the hands, and the joins are equally great. You also get additional cables and a storage case to go with it.
The pack contains 12 pairs of needle tips in different sizes. I have worked with a lot of wooden needles in the past and can say this is one of the best I have come across. They glide smoothly on the yarn, and there is no lag time. And you also get a fancy Denim pouch to keep all the circular knitting needles and accessories in place. This video shows a visual review of the needle.
Key Features
- 12 pair of needle tips
- Connecting cables
- Denim pouch
- Wooden needles
Pros
- Glide smoothly on yarn
- Durable needles
- Best interchangeable needles
- Includes accessories
- Available in different sizes
Cons
- Occasionally skips yarn
Circular Knitting Needles Buying Guide
Now that I have shared with you some of the best circular knitting needles you can find online and for all types of knitting projects, I will also be including a buyer’s guide to help you discover the right product for you. There are many products available to choose from, and even with the review above, it can still be a challenge to find suitable circular knitting needles, especially for beginners. But if you know just what to look for in the right product, it can be a walk in the park.
Some of the features to look for when in the market for circular knitting needles include
Length
You want to check the length of your knitting needles. For circular knits, you need enough room for your loops, so it is always best to consider how long the cables are. Just in case you are wondering, the length is the distance from the tip of the needle to the other end. Not counting the end caps or stop in the case of straight needles.
When working on large-sized yarns, it is always best to go with a long cable as they prevent you from dropping stitches and also makes for fast knits.
Tip
Another critical factor to consider is the tip of the needle. There are some with a pointed and sharp end, while others could be blunted. Needles with tapered tips are ideal when working with lace or cobwebs pieces. They are easier to work tighter pieces such as gloves or socks while the round needles are suitable for bulky yarns that split easily, such as acrylic or cotton yarns. For faster knits, you may want to consider lace knits, especially if you create pieces for sale.
Material
You should also know that there are different materials for knitting needle available. They each have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is up to you to find the best one for you. You may have to try each one of them out to find your match. The different knitting needles available are the
Bamboo
Many of the most popular crochet needles are made from bamboo and are sturdy and easy to use. They weight next to nothing, which makes them suitable for those looking to reduce the stress of knitting on the hands. I find bamboo needles not to drop stitches like the other types, but they could be slow compared to aluminum or steel needles.
Plastic
It is also common to find plastic circular knitting needles, and I find them to be useful when working with chunky yarns. Their lightweight makes them able to reduce the stress of working with bulky pieces. You should also know that they break when you use a smaller size needle on bulky yarn. When shopping for the best plastic knitting needles, check for the ones with smooth finishing to reduce yarn snagging.
Stainless Steel
If you want needles that would increase your knitting speed, then you may want to consider stainless steel circular knitting needles. They are the best choice when working on projects that need a small-sized needle. You can also be sure that they will still be lying around in your knitting bags and cases after a while.
Aluminum
Just like stainless steel, aluminum crochet needles are lightweight and highly durable. While they are dependable, you should know that they scratch easily and can break when dropped on the floor. So you want to take caution with aluminum needles.
Wood
There are equally knitting needles made of wood, and like bamboo, they are flexible and easy on the hands. But when it comes to fast knitting projects, I wouldn’t suggest you get them.
Style
You can also find knitting needles suited for different knit styles, and they include
Straight
If you require to knit pieces back and forth, then straight needles are your best bet. They are useful for working flat knittings in the case of towels and sweaters that may require additional sewing when done. These needles have a single tip and a stop on the other end.
Circular Needles
Another style of knitting needles is the circular knitting needles, which I have reviewed above. They can be used for both round, and flat knits, which make them a must-have for any knitting enthusiast. They feature two needles at each end attached to a lengthy cord to provide enough swirl room for the needles. The cable helps to reduce the stress of knitting, which makes them suitable for those with delicate hands.
Double-Pointed
There are also double-pointed needles which are best for flat knitting and round pointy areas like the heel of socks and top of a hat. Both ends of the needle are pointed, which is the difference between it and the straight needles. You will need to make use of an end stop when working with these sets of needles.
Interchangeable
The last set of needles is the interchangeable ones. Just like the name, these needles can be attached and detached from its cable. The good thing is they can work with any cord, but the challenge is finding one that gets on and off quickly. It is also common for them to slip from the cable during the process of knitting.
Accessories
When shopping for a circular knitting needle set, you want to check that it contains all the necessary gear you need for your knits. The best products come with scissors, measuring rule, markers, end stops, and a storage case for you to hold everything in place. You could also save up by buying a set instead of picking the individual pieces.
Size
You also want to ensure you get the right size needle for your projects. There are different options available, and many of the best brands of circular knitting needles come with many size options included in the set. When looking for smaller sized needles, it is best to go with those made from stainless steel. They do not break easily, unlike bamboo, wood, or those made from plastic.
Budget
You also want to factor in your budget when searching for knitting needles to buy. There are many reasonable offers available, but you should also remember to consider the quality of the material used before jumping on cheap offers.
FAQs
I have also answered some of the likely questions you may be asking when shopping for circular knitting needles.
Final Note
Circular knitting needles are a necessity for anyone who loves to knit. It doesn’t matter if you are a pro or not, and it could undoubtedly be useful when it comes to flat and round knitting projects.
You can make a pick from the products I have reviewed, and just in case, the Vancens Circular Knitting Needles are my top pick if you are looking for a durable product that versatile and flexible.
But as I said earlier, the buyer’s guide attached is always helpful to find the best product for you.