Knot Braids vs Knotless Braids, What's The Difference?

Chile, sometimes you want to look cute but you just ain’t got the time to do all of that exhausting styling work– especially not laying down some lace? Well, how about you rock your throw-on-and-go glueless wig then? Nah, you’re not feeling that either… you want something different now; maybe even a break from wigs. Sounds like it’s time for some box braids. And in 2025 (because we’re all about choice these days), you get to choose exactly how you want them - knots vs knotless braids. Hold up: how do you pick between traditional and knotless braids though? Easy, we’ll show you.

What Are Knot Braids?

Knot braids include braiding hair extensions around the base of your natural hair a few times (forming a knot at the base), and then keep braiding.

What Are Knotless Braids?

Knotless braids start by plaiting or twisting your hair a few times and then start to feed in teeny pieces of braiding hair as she works to the end of the braid.

Differences between Knot Braids and Traditional Knotless Braids

1. How Long It Takes to Install

The braiding hair in knotless braids is attached in smaller sections, which means more time is needed to part the braiding hair and install it. You can easily spend anywhere from 7 to 13 hours for knotless braids. In comparison, you’ll likely need 4-8 hours using the traditional method.

2. Price

Because knotless braids require more time to install, so they cost more. Prices go all the way from $250 up to $700+ for a vacation-worthy set. So if you’re on a budget, look into traditional braids typically $150 to $450.

3. How Long Can You Wear The Hairstyle

We hate to say it, because these are so darn cute, but knotless braids don’t last as long as knot braids. Within the first 2 weeks, your hair will start to get loose at the base and the parts also start to disappear, making the style start to look old. You can finesse it, of course, but if you need your hair to last you 1 or 2 months with less frequent maintenance, then traditional braids are the better bet.

4. Volume of the Hairstyle

The fact that traditional braids are wrapped a few times at the base means that they will have a fuller look to them from the root. All good when you want more volume. However, if you’re looking for a more understated, seamless look, then go with knotless braids. Knotless braids start thin at the base and then slowly get thicker – which makes them great for hotter climates and a better option for thinner hair or tender scalps.

5. Scalp Health

When it comes to scalp health, we must say that knotless braids are more friendly and painless to your scalp. Your scalp won't get much tension like traditional knot braids. In addition, since the hair extensions stay away from your scalp, your scalp won't suffer from friction and irritation from synthetic braiding hair.

6. Styling Choice

Knotless braids are more versatile and flexiable. With less scalp tension, you can pull your braids to do a ponytail or a half up half down. On the other side, knot braids have bulky roots, you can't style other hairstyles like knotless braids, which will add much tension to your scalp.

7. Appearance

Because the knotless braid has a process of changing from thin to thick, they look more natural than knot braids.

Well, that’s it for the major differences between knots and knotless braids. Hopefully, you’re now going to be able to narrow down which style is best for you. If you’ve got any questions, leave them down below.