Which is better for making hats?

The Prym MIDI. Its 20 hooks make tubes up to about 8 inches around, which suits hats and cuffs. The Express makes narrower 4 to 6 inch circles.

Which makes wider flat panels?

The Express. It lists plain panels 15-20 cm wide, roughly 6 to 8 inches. The Prym's flat panel is about 4.75 inches wide on 16 hooks.

Is the Prym worth the savings?

Yes for most buyers. It is $43.99 at Amazon against $155.74 at Walmart for the Express as of November 4, 2026, and it adds a brand name, a clear cover and a tension guide.

Which handles thicker yarn?

The Express. It recommends yarn thickness 3.5 to 8. The Prym is rated for yarn sizes 1-4, so bulky yarns are out.

Which is easier for a beginner?

The Prym. It is manual with a turn handle, lists beginner skill level, and includes complete instructions. The Express gives no skill guidance and has no rating shown.

Does either need batteries?

The Express listing notes 1 AAA battery required, though the machine is hand-cranked. The Prym is fully manual with no power source.

Express Single Knitting Machine vs Prym MIDI Knitting Mill Machine for Knit Tubes and Flat Panels

Buy the Prym MIDI for almost every shopper. It costs $43.99 at Amazon as of November 4, 2026, versus $155.74 at Walmart for the unbranded Express machine as of the same date, and it has a named brand, a clear cover, a tension guide and a documented flat-panel mode. Choose the Express only if you specifically want 22 needles and a wider plain panel and are willing to pay roughly $112 more.

Today the Prym MIDI Knitting Mill Machine for Knit Tubes and Flat Panels costs $111.75 less at its best price.

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