This is a tough question! When I first started knitting, I was so super-anxious to get started that I basically didn't care what needles or yarn I had, as long as I could go-go-go. Sad to say, I have definitely developed into a bit of a snob as my years of knitting added up. With needles, it's really all about the feel of it. If the needles feel good and create a smooth rhythm (click, click, slide) then they're good needles. I prefer bamboo/wood or plastic now. Addis are the best (nickel-plated) but they're pretty expensive. They are worth it, though, they really do make your knitting go faster. If you're talking circular needles, it's more the connecting cable that's important rather than the actual needle part. Look for circular needles with connecting cables that lay flat (perpetually curling ones are hard on your hands). The best cables I've found are the Denise interchangeables (thick bendy plastic) and, of course, the Addis (super smooth join...).