Yarn by the cone - opinions

[Breezed]

Do many of you purchase cones instead of skeins/hanks? Do you have to wind it into a ball to use it? I'm asking because I bought a pattern kit and it came with a cone instead of the 2 skeins it initially stated, no big deal because I got more yarn than I expected for the same price so it worked out well. I am curious to know what you more experienced knitters think/prefer.

[cacunn]

I use some cone yarns, and often knit directly from the cone. However, I normally wind the yarn into balls because they are smaller and easier to take with me. I do a lot of my knitting in public.

[MoniDew]

I actually prefer my yarn on a cone. For one, it's usually much more cost effective, and you get great yardage without any knots. For another - you DON'T have to wind it! I knit straight from the cone. (But, I'm not out in public....)

[borealowl]

I have seen cone holders for sale to put these on to make it easier to use. Not sure but it was either Mary Maxim or Herschnerrs. It can be a more economical way to buy yarn.