If you are new to knitting, you have learned that keeping track of your rows is very important. Manually keeping track with a pencil and a piece of paper will work. However, it is not the easiest way. Instead of writing down your row count, invest in the best knitting row counter.
3 Top Picks Best Knitting Row Counters for 2023
Best Overall
Digi 1st TC-890 Digital Tally Counter
The knitting tool can count up and down from 0 to 9999 using separate buttons. You can start at 0 or any preset number. You also have the ability to turn the sound on or off.
Premium Choice
Knitter’s Pride Rainbow Row Counter Ring for Knitting
The Knitter’s Pride Rainbow Row Counter Ring was created to be comfortable, practical, and beautiful. Simply slip it on your finger and turn the wheel. When you are done knitting for the day, the counter will not reset.
Great Value
Susan Bates Universal Knit Count
The Susan Bates Universal Knit Counter was designed to hand on your project. It is a great choice for circular and double pointed knitting projects.
What is a Knitting Row Counter?
Keeping track of rows is vital when knitting. Many knitters keep track using a pencil and paper. However, this can be time-consuming and inconvenient. Instead of putting your work down after every row, and grabbing your pencil and paper, simply click a button or turn a dial to keep track of your rows.
A row counter is a tool made for crafters and anyone who needs to keep an accurate count. There are mechanical and digital counters. Both types have the same function: to keep count.
Counters will have either a button or a wheel that you need to manipulate to advance or subtract your count. The best knitting row counters are easy to use and keep a precise count.
How to Choose the Best Knitting Row Counter
The purpose of all row counters is to help you keep count. But they do have some differences. When looking for the best knitting row counters, take into consideration:
- Size
Knitting row counters come in a variety of sizes. You will want a size that is easy to use. Some knitters are comfortable with small counters. While others with larger hands, arthritis, or sight problems may prefer a larger counter.
- Are Batteries Required
This is definitely a personal choice. There are both mechanical and digital row counters. The question is, do you want to change batteries when they die? Another inconvenience with digital counters is they often reset. So, you will need to manually track your row count when you stop.
- Does it Automatically Reset?
If you do not want to manually keep track of your row count when you put your project down, you will probably want a mechanical row counter. They will keep your row count. So, the next time you pick up your project; you will know exactly where you are.
- Number of Digits
If you work on small knitting projects, a 2 digit counter will be fine. However, if you work on larger projects, you will probably want to look for a counter that has a higher digit count.
10 Best Knitting Row Counters
To make your buying decision easier, here is my list of the top 10 best knitting row counters.
1. Handy Digital Clicker Stitch Tally Counters
The Teseas counter has a digital LCD screen display that can tally up to 5 digits.
Why We Like It:
This row counter has a compact design that is lightweight and easy to use.
- 99,999
With this knitting row counter, you do not have to worry about running out of numbers. This one counts to 99,999.
- Electronic
There is no spring to wear out, giving you an incorrect count.
- Easy to Read
The counter has a large LCD screen that is easy to read.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Eye-catching design
- LCD screen
- Lightweight
- No sound
- 5 Digits
Cons:
- Requires batteries
- Screen goes to sleep
- Reset button is easy to hit
2. KTRIO Metal Handheld Tally Counter
Designed to be used for a multitude of applications. The KRRIO counter can be used for work, school, or crafting.
Why We Like It:
This is one of the best knitting row counters for crafters that work on large projects. It can count all the way up to 9999.
- Easy to Operate
Simply push the button until you hear it click.
- Quick Reset Knob
Reset the counter with a few quick rotations of the knob.
- Durable
The case is made from metal, making it sturdy and durable.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Metal case
- Can count to 9999
- No batteries required
- Easy to reset
- Finger ring
Cons:
- Numbers mess up if clicked too fast
- Makes a clicking sound
3. Digi 1st TC-890 Digital Tally Counter
The machine counts up and down from 0 to 9999 with separate buttons. You can start at 0 or any preset number.
Why We Like It:
You can turn the sound on and off by pressing the large black button for 3 seconds.
- Wrist Strap
Hang the counter off your wrist, so you do not drop it or misplace it.
- On/Off Button
You will not have to waste battery power waiting on the counter to turn off by itself.
- Large Design
This counter has a large design that is ideal for anyone who has large hands or has trouble with tiny counters.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Turn the sound on or off
- 4 Digits
- Subtract feature
- Large screen
- On/Off Button
- Wrist strap
Cons:
- May be too big for some knitters
- Batteries are required
4. Knitter’s Pride Row Counter Ring for Knitting
The Knitter’s Pride Row Counter Ring has a beautiful, comfortable design. You may even forget you are wearing it.
Why We Like It:
Unlike digital row counters, this row counter will not lose your count when it turns off. Simply slide the ring off when you are done, then put it back on when you are ready to knit again.
- Stainless Steel
This counter is made from stainless steel. It will last for a long time.
- Easy to Read
The silver numbers against the black metal are easy to read.
- Comfortable
The Knitter’s Pride Row Counter is one of the best knitting row counters for anyone that wears rings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stainless-steel
- Hypoallergenic material
- No batteries required
- Easy to use
- Easy to read
Cons:
- Size is not adjustable
- Only counts to 99
5. Knitter’s Pride Rainbow Row Counter Ring for Knitting
The Knitter’s Pride Rainbow Row Counter Ring was created to be comfortable, practical, and beautiful.
Why We Like It:
Since this counter does not use batteries, it will not reset after it turns off. When you are done knitting for the day, slide the ring off and place it with your project. The wheels are tight enough that they will not turn on their own.
- Easy to Use Design
The numbers are loose enough to spin, yet tight enough that they do not move on their own.
- Stainless Steel
This counter is made from stainless steel. It will last for a long time.
- Comfortable
The ring design is so comfortable you will forget you are wearing it.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stainless-steel
- Hypoallergenic material
- No batteries required
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Size is not adjustable
- Only counts to 99
- Finish can make it hard to read
6. Susan Bates Universal Knit Count
Keep count of your rows directly on your project with the Susan Bates Universal Knit Counter.
Why We Like It:
Row counters are easy to misplace. This little row counter is attached to your project, so you never have to worry about losing track of it.
- Swivels
The loop that attaches to your project swivels. This helps to guarantee you can always see the numbers easily.
- Never Lose Count
By directly attaching the counter to your work, you will always be able to know exactly what row you are working on.
- Convenient
Do not worry about misplacing the counter when you put your work down.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good for circular and double pointed knitting
- Lightweight
- Loop swivels
Cons:
- Only counts to 99
- Looks cheap
- Must be hung on your work or needles
7. Herrschners Susan Bates Digital Row Counter for Knitting
The Susan Bates brand makes crafting fun and easy. They take into consideration ease of use and cost.
Why We Like It:
Many knitters think the Susan Bates Digital Row Counter is one of the best knitting row counters on the market. It is simple to use and small enough it does not get in the way.
- Soft Strap
The start is soft and adjustable. Wear the counter on your finger just like a ring.
- Reset Button
Reset your count with the simple push of a button.
- Small Design
You can work with the counter on your finger, and it will not get in the way.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Soft adjustable strap
- Long battery life
- LED display
- Large button
- Reset button
Cons:
- Battery required
8. Electronic Finger Hand Tally Counter Counting
The Koicaxy electronic counter was designed for anyone who needs to keep an accurate count.
Why We Like It:
Never drop this knitting row counter. It attaches to your finger with a simple rubber strap.
- Rugged Casing
The casing is made from ABS plastic, which is rugged and eco-friendly.
- Wrist Band
You will never lose the counter while you are working since it was designed to be worn on your finger.
- Large Button
The large button is ideal for people with small or large fingers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Small design
- Large button
- Easy reset
- Rugged casing
- Finger band
Cons:
- Closure is tricky to fasten
- Battery required
- Screen is small
9. Woniutch Electronic Tally Counter
Do you like to hear the click, or would you rather not? This best knitting row counter was designed for everyone. It is simple to turn the sound on or off by holding down the button.
Why We Like It:
The Wonituk Electronic Tally Counter has large buttons that are ideal for all users. And the knitting row counter can easily be worn around the neck using the attached lanyard.
Turn of Sound
Some people like to hear a sound when they click the button, and some do not. This machine lets you turn the sound on or off.
Negative Button
Not only does the counter have a positive button. If you click it too many times, you can remove the number with a click of a button.
Lanyard
Wear the knitting row counter around your neck, on your wrist, or keep it in your pocket.
Pros:
- Turn the sound on or off
- LCD display
- Included lanyard
- Negative button
Cons:
- Requires a battery
- Drains batteries quickly
10. Clover Needlecraft Kacha Kacha Knit Counter Bundle
The Clover Kacha Kacha is made from durable plastic material that is non-toxic and safe. The row counter will not easily break or become deformed.
Why We Like It:
This functional knitting tool is a great choice for anyone who does not like to wear a counter. After you advance your count, sit it down on a flat surface, and it will not roll away.
- Easy to Use
The flat design of this tool makes it one of the best knitting row counters on our list. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a one-handed counter.
- Flat
This row counter will not roll away.
- Dual Counting Methods
When counting, you can press the top button above or roll the wheel.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flat design
- No batteries required
- Dials and button
Cons:
- Only counts to 99
3 Top Picks Best Knitting Row Counters for 2023
Best Overall
Digi 1st TC-890 Digital Tally Counter
The knitting tool can count up and down from 0 to 9999 using separate buttons. You can start at 0 or any preset number. You also have the ability to turn the sound on or off.
Premium Choice
Knitter’s Pride Rainbow Row Counter Ring for Knitting
The Knitter’s Pride Rainbow Row Counter Ring was created to be comfortable, practical, and beautiful. Simply slip it on your finger and turn the wheel. When you are done knitting for the day, the counter will not reset.
Great Value
Susan Bates Universal Knit Count
The Susan Bates Universal Knit Counter was designed to hand on your project. It is a great choice for circular and double pointed knitting projects.
The best knitting row counters were designed to make your knitting experience easier.
Knitting requires you to keep track of your row count. Trying to remember what row you are on can be impossible. I know, I always forget. And using a pencil and paper is not always the most efficient choice.
Instead of wasting time or forgetting what row you are working on, look at getting one of the best knitting row counters available.
When you decide to get one, share your experience on our Facebook Page. We’d love to know. For your next knitting project, check out these patterns:
- Lace Scarf Knitting Patterns
- Knit Bag Patterns
- Knitted Bookmark Patterns
- Knit Golf Club Cover Patterns
Now, invest in the best knitting row counter.