Circular knitting machine prices from Chinese manufacturers in 2026 range from $8,000 for basic single jersey units to $180,000+ for fully automated multi-feeder jacquard systems. Most textile factories investing in new production equipment budget between $25,000 and $65,000 per machine.
This guide breaks down actual manufacturer quotations by machine type, configuration, and feature set — so you can benchmark supplier quotes and identify outliers.
2026 Price List: Circular Knitting Machines from China
Single Jersey Circular Knitting Machines
Single jersey machines produce plain knit fabrics used in T-shirts, casual wear, and lightweight sportswear. They have the simplest needle bed configuration and the lowest entry price.
| Configuration | Diameter Range | Feeders | 2026 Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic single jersey | 18″-26″ | 2-4 per inch | $8,000 – $18,000 |
| Mid-range single jersey | 26″-34″ | 4-6 per inch | $18,000 – $35,000 |
| High-speed single jersey | 30″-40″ | 6-8 per inch | $35,000 – $55,000 |
| Computerized single jersey | 26″-38″ | 4-6 per inch | $40,000 – $70,000 |
Single jersey machines account for the largest share of China’s circular knitting machine exports. The gap between basic and computerized models has narrowed over the past two years as electronic control systems have become standard on mid-range units.
Double Jersey Circular Knitting Machines
Double jersey (rib and interlock) machines have two needle beds and produce thicker, more stable fabrics. They cost 30-60% more than equivalent single jersey models because of the additional needle bed, more complex cam systems, and higher precision requirements.
| Configuration | Diameter Range | Feeders | 2026 Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic rib/interlock | 20″-30″ | 3-4 per inch | $15,000 – $28,000 |
| Mid-range double jersey | 26″-36″ | 4-6 per inch | $28,000 – $50,000 |
| High-speed double jersey | 30″-40″ | 6-8 per inch | $45,000 – $75,000 |
| Computerized double jersey | 26″-38″ | 4-6 per inch | $55,000 – $95,000 |
Jacquard Circular Knitting Machines
Jacquard machines use individual needle selection (electronic or mechanical) to produce patterned fabrics. They’re the most expensive category because of the electronic selection systems, additional yarn feeders, and specialized software.
| Configuration | Diameter Range | Feeders | 2026 Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical jacquard | 26″-34″ | 3-4 per inch | $25,000 – $45,000 |
| Electronic jacquard (single) | 26″-36″ | 4-6 per inch | $50,000 – $85,000 |
| Electronic jacquard (double) | 26″-36″ | 4-6 per inch | $80,000 – $150,000 |
| High-speed electronic jacquard | 30″-40″ | 6-8 per inch | $120,000 – $200,000+ |
The jump from mechanical to electronic jacquard roughly doubles the price. For factories producing fashion fabrics or technical textiles with complex patterns, the ROI comes from reduced setup time and the ability to run smaller batches profitably.
Open Width Circular Knitting Machines
Open width machines knit tubular fabric that’s then slit open to produce flat panels. They’re used for wide-width fabrics in home textiles, automotive textiles, and industrial applications.
| Configuration | Diameter Range | 2026 Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard open width | 40″-60″ | $40,000 – $80,000 |
| Large open width | 60″-80″ | $70,000 – $130,000 |
| Extra-large open width | 80″-100″+ | $100,000 – $200,000+ |
Open width machines require heavier frames and more robust drive systems. Larger diameters push prices up quickly because structural rigidity becomes a limiting factor.
Terry and Fleece Circular Knitting Machines
Terry machines produce looped fabrics for towels, bathrobes, and baby wear. Fleece machines add a brushing/fleece component. Both require specialized sinker systems and yarn feeding arrangements.
| Configuration | Diameter Range | 2026 Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Single terry | 20″-34″ | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Double terry | 26″-36″ | $35,000 – $65,000 |
| Fleece (3-color) | 26″-34″ | $40,000 – $75,000 |
| High-speed terry | 30″-40″ | $55,000 – $90,000 |
Sock and Hosiery Circular Knitting Machines
Small-diameter machines designed for socks, hosiery, and seamless garments. These are a specialized category with different pricing dynamics.
| Configuration | Diameter Range | 2026 Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic sock machine | 3″-4.5″ | $8,000 – $18,000 |
| Computerized sock machine | 3″-5″ | $20,000 – $45,000 |
| Seamless garment machine | 8″-15″ | $30,000 – $60,000 |
| High-speed hosiery | 4″-5″ | $40,000 – $80,000 |
What Drives the Price: 7 Key Factors
1. Cylinder Diameter
Diameter determines the maximum fabric width. Larger diameters require heavier cylinders, stronger drive frames, and more precise balancing. Price increases roughly 15-25% for every 6-inch diameter increase within the same gauge class.
2. Gauge (Needles Per Inch)
Higher gauge means finer needles, tighter tolerances, and more needles per machine. A 28-gauge machine costs 20-40% more than an 18-gauge machine of the same diameter because the needle bed is more complex and the needles themselves are more expensive.
3. Number of Feeders
More feeders mean more yarn inputs, more cam systems, and more complex yarn path management. Each additional feeder pair adds roughly $500-$1,500 to the machine price depending on the type.
4. Electronic vs Mechanical Control
Electronic needle selection, servo motor drives, and computerized pattern control add $10,000-$40,000 to the base price. Most Chinese manufacturers now offer electronic control as standard on mid-range and above machines.
5. Brand and Country of Origin
Machines from established German (Mayer, Terrot), Japanese (Fukuhara), or Italian (Santoni, Lonati) brands command 40-100% premiums over Chinese equivalents. Chinese manufacturers like Aisunny, Yuanda, and Leadsfon offer machines at 40-60% lower price points with comparable production output for standard fabric types.
6. Condition: New vs Used
Used circular knitting machines from China typically sell at 40-60% of new machine prices. A 3-year-old machine in good condition might retain 50-60% of its original value. Machines over 10 years old drop to 25-35% of original value.
7. Additional Features
| Feature | Price Impact |
|---|---|
| Servo motor yarn feeding | +$3,000 – $8,000 |
| Automatic lubrication system | +$2,000 – $5,000 |
| Fabric take-up with electronic control | +$1,500 – $4,000 |
| USB/network pattern input | +$1,000 – $3,000 |
| Energy-saving motor package | +$2,000 – $6,000 |
| Quality inspection sensors | +$5,000 – $15,000 |
Hidden Costs Most Buyers Miss
The machine price is only part of the total investment. Budget for these additional costs:
Shipping and Logistics
- Sea freight (FOB to major ports): $2,000 – $8,000 per machine depending on size
- Crating and packaging: $500 – $2,000
- Insurance (marine): 0.3-0.5% of machine value
- Inland transport at destination: $500 – $3,000
Import Duties and Taxes
Import duties vary by country. Common rates:
| Destination | Typical Duty Rate | VAT/GST |
|---|---|---|
| USA | 0-3.7% | State-dependent |
| EU | 0-4.5% | 17-25% |
| India | 7.5-10% | 18% |
| Southeast Asia | 0-5% | 10-12% |
| Middle East | 0-5% | 5-15% |
| Africa | 0-10% | 15-20% |
Installation and Commissioning
- Foundation preparation: $1,000 – $5,000
- Electrical connection: $500 – $2,000
- Installation supervision (manufacturer technician): $2,000 – $5,000 (often 7-14 days)
- Training: Usually included for 3-5 days
Spare Parts Kit
Most manufacturers recommend purchasing an initial spare parts kit:
- Needle set (full): $800 – $3,000
- Sinker set: $500 – $2,000
- Cam set: $300 – $1,500
- Miscellaneous (belts, bearings, springs): $500 – $1,500
How to Compare Supplier Quotations
When you receive quotes from multiple Chinese manufacturers, normalize them using this checklist:
- Same specifications: Ensure diameter, gauge, feeder count, and features match exactly
- Same Incoterms: Compare FOB prices, not CIF vs FOB mixes
- Same currency: Convert all quotes to USD using current rates
- Include/exclude list: Check what’s included (spare parts, installation, training, warranty)
- Warranty terms: Standard is 12 months; some offer 18-24 months
- Payment terms: 30% deposit + 70% before shipment is standard; some offer LC at sight
- Lead time: 30-60 days is typical; rush orders may cost 10-20% more
Price Trends: What’s Changed in 2026
The circular knitting machine market has seen several pricing shifts this year:
- Raw material costs have stabilized after the 2024-2025 steel price volatility. Machine frames and cylinders are 5-8% cheaper than peak 2025 prices.
- Electronic component costs continue to decline. Servo motors and control systems are 10-15% cheaper than two years ago, which has brought computerized machine prices down.
- Labor costs in China have increased 5-8% year-over-year, partially offsetting material savings.
- Energy efficiency features have moved from optional to standard on most mid-range machines, without significant price increases.
- Overall price trend: Flat to slightly down (2-5%) for standard machines, with more features included at the same price point.
Getting the Best Price: Negotiation Lever
Based on transaction data from 2025-2026, these negotiation approaches consistently work:
- Order multiple units. Two machines ordered together typically get a 5-10% discount. Three or more can get 10-15% off.
- Request FOB pricing. This gives you control over shipping costs and avoids inflated freight charges.
- Ask for extended warranty. Manufacturers are more willing to extend warranty from 12 to 18 months than to cut prices further.
- Negotiate spare parts inclusion. A $2,000-$5,000 spare parts kit costs the manufacturer $800-$2,000 to produce. Getting it included is an effective discount.
- Time your order. Q1 (January-March) and Q3 (July-September) tend to be slower periods for Chinese manufacturers. Quotes during these windows are often more flexible.
- Request factory acceptance testing (FAT). Having the machine tested at the factory before shipment reduces your risk and gives you leverage to negotiate terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average price of a circular knitting machine from China?
The most common price range for production-ready circular knitting machines from Chinese manufacturers is $25,000-$65,000. This covers mid-range single and double jersey machines with electronic control, suitable for most textile production needs.
How much does a single jersey circular knitting machine cost?
Basic single jersey machines start at $8,000-$18,000. Mid-range models with electronic control run $18,000-$35,000. High-speed or large-diameter single jersey machines can reach $55,000-$70,000.
How much does a double jersey circular knitting machine cost?
Double jersey machines cost 30-60% more than equivalent single jersey models. Expect to pay $15,000-$28,000 for basic rib/interlock machines and $45,000-$95,000 for computerized high-speed models.
How much does a jacquard circular knitting machine cost?
Mechanical jacquard machines start at $25,000-$45,000. Electronic jacquard machines range from $50,000 (single jersey) to $200,000+ (high-speed double jersey with 8+ feeders).
Are Chinese circular knitting machines reliable?
Chinese manufacturers have significantly improved quality over the past decade. Machines from established manufacturers like Aisunny, Yuanda, and Leadsfon meet ISO and CE certification standards. Key components (needles, bearings, servo motors) are often sourced from German, Japanese, and Taiwanese suppliers. The 85%+ client retention rate of leading manufacturers reflects acceptable reliability for the price point.
What is the lead time for circular knitting machines from China?
Standard lead time is 30-60 days after deposit payment. Custom configurations or large orders may take 60-90 days. Factor in an additional 2-4 weeks for sea freight to most destinations.
Should I buy new or used circular knitting machines?
For factories running 2-3 shifts daily, new machines offer better reliability, warranty coverage, and energy efficiency. For smaller operations or backup capacity, used machines at 40-60% of new prices can offer good value. Always inspect used machines in person or request a detailed condition report with photos and production hour logs.
References
The data and insights in this guide were compiled from the following sources:
Market size projections: $3.82B (2025) → $4.04B (2026) → $5.35B (2031), CAGR 5.76%
Market valuation and segment analysis by machine type, diameter, and gauge
New machine price bands: $10,000-$50,000+ depending on diameter, gauge, feeders, and automation
Price ranges: $15,000 (basic single jersey) to $180,000+ (high-end automated systems)
FOB pricing data from verified Chinese knitting machine manufacturers
Wholesale and OEM pricing from Chinese factory direct suppliers
Used machine pricing: €20,000-€65,000 for mid to large diameter machines
Secondary market pricing and condition assessments for pre-owned equipment
China knitting machine market CAGR 7.3% (2025-2035), circular machines 65%+ of unit sales
Average import price benchmark: $26,773 per unit for small-diameter machines
Prices are based on 2026 manufacturer quotations and market data. Actual prices may vary based on specific configurations, order volume, and market conditions. Contact Aisunny for a customized quotation.