What kinds of Rowing Machines are there?

There are four basic types, all classified by the type of resistance they provide. The rowers you may have seen at your local gym, CrossFit box or Orangetheory studio probably used flywheel or water resistance. Other rowing machines use magnetic or piston/cylinder resistance mechanisms.

Are Rowing Machines appropriate for beginners?

Absolutely! Rowing machines use up to 85% of your body, from the effort it takes to push backwards to the core strength needed to go back and forth and, of course, all of the upper body in the pull. Like any new exercise routine, you may find there's a learning curve to developing proper form, but it's one of the best low-impact workouts you can get.

I'm a more advanced athlete. Can I actually get a good workout on a home rower?

Yes! There are many workouts designed for all levels of fitness, including yours. You can also find communities that share rowing challenges -even worldwide! This is especially true if you use a Concept2 rower, which is considered as the "gold standard" when entering competitive times for races and recruiting.

Are Rowing Machines expensive?

Sometimes, depending on the model you select and how many features it offers. You'll see rowers ranging from under $300 to over $2500. You might be able to get low-interest financing from the retailer of the rowing machine you select.

Will a Rowing Machine take up a lot of room?

Most styles will have a certain minimum floor space when in use: you're pushing yourself back and forth along a track, so think about how long your legs extend from a bent position to a fully-extended one. However, if space is an issue, there are rowing machines that can be folded up when not in use (usually by placing the track in a vertical position).

What if my Rowing Machine arrives and it doesn't fit in the space I planned or I don't like it? Can I send it back?

Most retailers of Rowing Machines offer a return period of at least 30 days. But, keep in mind that you're usually going to be on the hook for return shipping fees, which can get expensive.

Do I have to pay extra for shipping?

Some rowers are delivered for free. Don't be surprised to see shipping costs upwards of $130, though: rowing machines are oversized and heavy.

Is set-up included in the delivery charge?

Generally speaking, you'll be the one setting up your rower. A few retailers might be able to connect you with a local professional who can do it for you, but you might want to try it yourself first. These machines are typically straightforward to get up and rowing.

Best Rowing Machines for April 2026

Item: The Best Rowing Machines - Summary Reviews
Rating: 5
Author: Top Consumer Reviews

Friday, April 17th We evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.

2026 Rowing Machine Reviews

What is the best rowing machine for your home gym? If you're looking for a full-body workout that's gentle on your joints but tough on calories, a rowing machine might be exactly what you need. These versatile fitness devices have surged in popularity recently, and for good reason - rowing machines offer one of the most efficient workouts available, engaging over 85% of your muscles while providing both cardiovascular and strength benefits. The rhythmic motion also promotes better posture and core strength, which can alleviate back pain for many users. (Your spine will thank you).

5.0

EXCELLENT

Best Option

Concept2

Flagship RowErg priced at just $990
Industry-leading PM5 Performance Monitor tracks distance, speed, pace, calories, and watts with unmatched accuracy
Air resistance flywheel technology allows users to control workout intensity naturally

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EXCELLENT

5.0

On the Concept2 website

When you're looking for a rowing machine that combines legendary durability with competition-level accuracy, Concept2 delivers exactly what serious athletes demand. Your workouts will benefit from their air-resistance technology that naturally adjusts to your effort level, all tracked through their exceptional PM5 Performance Monitor that provides detailed metrics without requiring any subscription. With prices ranging from $850 for the SkiErg to $1,500 for the versatile StrengthErg, Concept2 offers exceptional value considering these machines are built to last decades - not years. After thorough evaluation, Concept2 earns our perfect 5-star rating as the undisputed champion of rowing machines.

4.5

GREAT

Great

Water Rower

WaterRower machines range from $799 to $3,099 with models crafted from oak, cherry, walnut and stainless steel
Unique WaterFlywheel technology creates authentic rowing resistance and soothing water sounds
Handcrafted in USA and Germany with furniture-quality materials designed to complement home décor

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GREAT

4.5

On the Water Rower website

You'll love the WaterRower's ability to transform your workout into a meditative experience with its authentic water-based resistance system that mimics real rowing. Crafted in the USA and Germany with furniture-quality materials like oak, cherry, and walnut, WaterRower rowing machines aren't just exercise equipment - they're elegant pieces that blend seamlessly into your home décor. The soothing sound of water swishing as you row creates a therapeutic atmosphere that many WaterRower users say enhances both their mental and physical wellbeing. With no subscription required and prices ranging from $799 to $3,099, WaterRower offers a premium rowing experience that stands the test of time. WaterRower earns an excellent rating for its winning combination of performance, craftsmanship, and aesthetic appeal.

4.0

VERY GOOD

Very Good

Sunny Health & Fitness

Affordable rowers from $200 to $630 with magnetic, water, hydraulic, and air resistance options
Free SunnyFit App with thousands of workouts, global routes, and device connectivity
Sturdy steel construction with weight capacities ranging from 250-350 lbs

Read Full Review

VERY GOOD

4.0

On the Sunny Health & Fitness website

Looking for an affordable entry into the rowing world? Sunny Health & Fitness offers a diverse lineup of rowing machines that deliver surprising value across their magnetic, water, hydraulic, and air resistance options. With prices ranging from just $200 to $630, these Sunny rowing machines provide sturdy steel construction, digital performance tracking, and free app connectivity that doesn't trap you in subscription fees. While they may not match the premium experience of high-end competitors, Sunny's stellar BBB rating and positive customer reviews confirm these rowers deliver exactly what they promise: reliable workouts without breaking the bank. These rowing machines are a great choice for casual users who want effective workouts without paying top dollar.

3.0

AVERAGE

Average

Hydrow

Two models starting at $1,545 with magnetic resistance and HD touchscreens
Hydrow's Premium Membership costs $44/month ($528 annually) with unlimited household profiles
Over 5,000 on-demand rowing workouts filmed on waterways worldwide

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AVERAGE

3.0

On the Hydrow website

Hydrow rowing machines offer a visually striking blend of sleek design and immersive workout technology that brings authentic on-water rowing into your home. You'll enjoy live and on-demand workouts filmed on beautiful waterways worldwide, led by Olympic-caliber athletes through crisp HD touchscreens on either their Pro ($1,745) or more compact Wave ($1,545) models. While Hydrow's immersive content is compelling, be aware that the $44 monthly subscription is practically mandatory to access what makes these rowing machines special, and some customers report concerning mechanical issues with handle assemblies and screens. Hydrow rowing machines offer a solid experience for design-conscious users who prioritize engaging content, but they're not recommended for budget-conscious shoppers or those seeking hassle-free maintenance.

2.5

FAIR

Fair

Life Fitness

Two models from $1,849 to $3,181 with 330-pound weight capacities
Row HX Trainer uses Fluid Technology resistance with 5 adjustable levels
Heat Row combines air and magnetic resistance with 100 adjustable levels

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FAIR

2.5

On the Life Fitness website

You'll find Life Fitness rowing machines at your local gym, and now you can bring that commercial-grade quality home with their two premium models ranging from $1,849 to $3,181. While Life Fitness rowing machines offer impressive construction with natural wood frames or aluminum rails, adjustable resistance levels, and robust 330-pound weight capacities, they come with steep price tags, shipping costs, and a hefty 20% restocking fee if you're not satisfied. Some customers also report frustrating foot strap issues and disappointing Bluetooth connectivity. We encourage you to look at alternatives that deliver better quality at half the price.

2.4

FAIR

Fair

Yosuda

Priced from $359 for the budget 200R model to $999 for the premium Air Magnetic Dragonfly
16 levels of magnetic resistance on the entry-level model
Dual air and magnetic resistance system on premium model with up to 182lb resistance

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FAIR

2.4

On the Yosuda website

Yosuda offers budget-friendly rowing machines with a heartwarming origin story, though you might question its authenticity given the generic website and suspiciously perfect reviews. You'll find decent features at wallet-friendly prices - from the basic 200R ($359) with its 16 resistance levels to the more premium Air Magnetic Dragonfly ($999) with dual resistance and app connectivity. While the machines deliver basic functionality, customer service appears spotty at best, leaving you largely on your own if something goes wrong. With a modest rating, Yosuda rowing machines represent a budget gamble that might pay off if you're not counting on warranty support.

2.0

SUBPAR

Subpar

NordicTrack

Magnetic resistance rowers priced from $899 to $2,299
Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR) technology for quiet operation
HD touchscreen displays ranging from 7" to 24" in size

Read Full Review

SUBPAR

2.0

On the NordicTrack website

If you're looking for a home rowing machine with flashy features and a high-tech screen, NordicTrack might catch your eye - but think twice before buying. While these magnetic resistance rowers boast impressive touchscreens and interactive iFIT workouts, they've developed a troubling reputation for breaking down after just months of use. NordicTrack rowing machines are best for tech enthusiasts who don't mind potentially expensive repairs, and definitely not for budget-conscious consumers seeking long-term reliability. With a concerning pattern of belt failures, console malfunctions, and customer service complaints, NordicTrack rowing machines earn a disappointing rating from us.

2.0

SUBPAR

Subpar

Xterra

Pricing ranges from $399 for entry-level magnetic models to $1,799 for premium water rowers
Models feature aluminum seat slide rails and space-saving vertical storage with transport wheels
Bluetooth FTMS connectivity allows integration with third-party apps like Kinomap

Read Full Review

SUBPAR

2.0

On the Xterra website

You might want to reconsider Xterra's rowing machines if you value transparency and customer feedback in your fitness equipment purchases. Despite offering both water and magnetic rowers at competitive price points ($399+), Xterra operates in an information vacuum with virtually no independent reviews or reliable customer testimonials to validate their product quality. When you're investing in a rowing machine that you'll hopefully use for years, this lack of credibility is concerning. We suggest you look elsewhere for your rowing machine needs.

1.5

WEAK

Weak

ProForm

Priced at $599 and $1,199
Silent magnetic resistance with 24 digital resistance levels on the Pro10
Space-saving folding designs with front-mounted transport wheels

Read Full Review

WEAK

1.5

On the ProForm website

ProForm offers you a streamlined collection of two magnetic resistance rowing machines that look great on paper but fall apart when it actually matters. You'll find yourself stuck with iFIT's subscription service at checkout whether you want it or not, while many owners report hardware failures within months of purchase. When something inevitably breaks, prepare for painful customer service experiences and replacement parts that might cost nearly as much as your original rowing machine. You'd be wise to row away from this disappointing lineup.

1.0

POOR

Poor

Echelon

Two models available: basic Row ($899) and premium Row-s ($999) with 22" HD touchscreen
FitPass ($11. 99/month) and Premier ($39. 99/month or $33. 33/month billed annually) subscription options
Magnetic resistance with Bluetooth controls for smooth, quiet rowing experience

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POOR

1.0

On the Echelon website

You might be tempted by Echelon's budget-friendly rowing machines, but don't be fooled by their attractive price tags. These rowing machines essentially become expensive paperweights without the $40 monthly Premier membership, as even basic functionality requires an internet connection and app login. When you factor in the subscription costs, hidden shipping charges unless you buy an annual plan, and paid warranties that should come standard, Echelon's "affordable" rowing machines quickly become anything but. We suggest you avoid these machines unless you enjoy paying perpetual fees just to use equipment you thought you owned.

0.9

POOR

Poor

Sole Fitness

SR550 rowing machine: $1,499 with $50 standard shipping
Combined air and magnetic resistance with 16 resistance levels for a realistic rowing feel
10.1-inch touchscreen display with 10 pre-programmed and 12 user-defined workouts

Read Full Review

POOR

0.9

On the Sole Fitness website

You might think a brand that's been building hotel gym equipment for decades would know a thing or two about rowing machines, but Sole Fitness misses the mark with their single rowing machine offering. While their SR550 rower combines air and magnetic resistance with a touchscreen display, you'll face steep shipping costs, predatory return policies with hidden fees, and customer service that's earned an "F" rating from the Better Business Bureau. With so many reliable rowing machine brands on the market, we can't recommend Sole Fitness.

Continued from above...

What is the Best Rowing Machine for Your Home Gym?

If you're looking for a full-body workout that's gentle on your joints but tough on calories, a rowing machine might be exactly what you need. These versatile fitness devices have surged in popularity recently, and for good reason - rowing machines offer one of the most efficient workouts available, engaging over 85% of your muscles while providing both cardiovascular and strength benefits. The rhythmic motion also promotes better posture and core strength, which can alleviate back pain for many users. (Your spine will thank you).

Who benefits from rowing machines? Just about everyone, as it turns out. Fitness enthusiasts appreciate how rowing machines deliver high-intensity workouts with minimal impact on joints. Rehabilitation patients find rowing machines ideal for rebuilding strength without risking further injury. Even busy professionals gravitate toward rowing machines because they offer time-efficient workouts that burn significant calories in shorter sessions. And for those with limited space, many rowing machines can be folded away when not in use - perfect for apartment dwellers who don't want a treadmill dominating their living room.

However, not all rowing machines are created equal. The market offers distinct variations that cater to different preferences and training goals. Some use water resistance to create a smooth, natural feeling reminiscent of actual rowing on water. Others employ air resistance that responds dynamically to your effort - row harder and you'll feel greater resistance. Magnetic resistance models offer whisper-quiet operation ideal for apartment dwellers (your downstairs neighbors will never know you're working out at 5 AM), while hydraulic rowers typically provide the most compact footprint for those with space constraints.

When shopping for a rowing machine online, several factors should guide your decision:

Resistance type and levels. The resistance mechanism fundamentally shapes your rowing experience. Water and air resistance provide the most authentic rowing feel but can be noisier, while magnetic systems offer silent operation with consistent resistance. Your ideal choice depends on your living situation, workout preferences, and whether you value realism or convenience more.
Comfort features and ergonomics. The seat contour, handle design, and footrest adjustability directly impact your workout comfort. Extended rowing sessions can become uncomfortable quickly on poorly designed machines. Prioritize padded seats, non-slip handles, and adjustable foot straps that accommodate different shoe sizes. Some premium rowing machines even offer extra features like seat padding and ergonomic handles for enhanced comfort during longer workouts.
Technology integration and monitoring. Modern rowing machines range from simple monitors tracking basic metrics to sophisticated systems with Bluetooth connectivity, app integration, and interactive training programs. Consider how much technological assistance you want with tracking progress and maintaining motivation. Advanced displays can show stroke rate, distance, calories burned, and even heart rate when paired with compatible monitors. Be wary of rowing machines that require paid subscriptions to access basic functionality or tracking features.
Customer reviews, durability, and warranty. Before purchasing, research both customer feedback and warranty coverage thoroughly. Look for rowing machines backed by warranties of 3-5 years on the frame and 1-2 years on parts. Quality machines should withstand daily use for years without developing wobbles or squeaks. Pay special attention to reviews mentioning durability over time - many users report significant differences between brands after 6-12 months of regular use. The most reliable manufacturers offer comprehensive warranties and responsive customer service when parts need replacement. Brands with consistently positive long-term feedback often represent the best investment, even at higher price points.

Selecting the right rowing machine requires balancing these considerations against your budget and fitness goals. The good news is that the market now offers excellent options at various price points. Top Consumer Reviews has evaluated and ranked the best rowing machines available based on quality, performance, and value. We hope this review helps you find the best rowing machine for your home fitness journey - and puts you well on your way to achieving those fitness goals.