If you're looking for a new workout regimen that’s low-impact but yields big results, a rowing machine should be near the top of your list. The best rowing machines make for an incredible total-body workout; the movements needed for rowing work everything—legs, glutes, abs, arms, shoulders, and back, activating about 85% of all muscles. It's effective for both cardio and strength training. And rowing is kinder on your joints than, say, running, jumping rope, or doing burpees, but burns just as many, if not more, calories in the same amount of time.
If you want to go all-in and add a rowing machine to your home gym, you have oodles of options—myriad brands have launched their own rowing machines in recent years due to increasing popularity. There are now so many it can be a challenge to pick just one. A former competitive rower, I have tested rowing machines of all types to see which are worth the price tag and the space. Read on to see which are the best rowing machines based on my research and testing.
- Best Overall Rowing Machine: Concept2 RowErg
- Best Budget Rowing Machine: Merax Water Rowing Machine
- Best Magnetic Rowing Machine: Hydrow Rower
- Best Water Rowing Machine: The Ergatta Rower
- Best Compact Rowing Machine: Ativafit Magnetic Rower
- Best Foldable Rowing Machine: Echelon Row Connected Rowing Machine
- Best High-Tech Rowing Machine: NordicTrack RW900
Best Overall Rowing Machine
Good For Beginners and Pros Alike
There are many reasons competitive rowing coaches favor this particular rower, but chief among them is the ease of use. While many collegiate-level rowers have previous experience, schools also have a high percentage of walk-on athletes. This machine is good for both learners and pros. In addition, it's relatively affordable (particularly compared to other options) and incredibly durable—which it needs to be to stand up to the demand of rigorous training day after day. Resistance is delivered via a flywheel and damper, and a nickel-plated chain requires occasional oiling.
The RowErg’s performance monitor tracks speed, strokes per minute, kilometers rowed, and more. It can also connect via Bluetooth to a multitude of apps (including Concept2's own free app, ErgData). Conveniently, it also has a device holder for your phone or tablet, which means you can catch up on shows while you get your workout in.
Best Budget Rowing Machine
An Affordable Entry Into The Sort Of Gear That Usually Isn't
If you're new to rowing or just don't want to shell out the big bucks for another piece of exercise equipment, the Merax Water Rower is a solid option—it's one of the few rowers priced at under $500. But don’t misunderstand; while it's cheaper, that doesn't mean it's cheap. Its list of features includes durable steel construction, an ergometric handle, and an LCD monitor that displays live stats.
Resistance comes in the way of a water tank, so you’ll hear the trademarked sloshing which can give you the impression of actually rowing in open water. The tank is inclined to allow for more resistance. It’s also somewhat portable, in the sense that it’s designed to be stored upright when not in use, so it has a smaller footprint than others on the market.
Best Magnetic Rower
Smooth, Silent And The Trendiest Of Rowing Machines
What makes rowing such a challenging workout is the resistance. In some machines, that resistance is caused by water; in others, it's moving air. In magnetic rowing machines, that resistance happens when two strong magnets move past each other. That translates to a quieter and more compact machine. While there are myriad magnetic rowers, Hydrow is arguably the best. Sometimes called the Peloton of rowers, it has a 22-inch mounted HD touchscreen (that can pivot 25 degrees in each direction) with more than 500 pre-recorded rowing sessions.
If you jump into one of the river sessions, it can actually feel like you're on the water, thanks to the smooth-as-silk 10-roller seat. It's worth noting, however, that if you want to experience the full capabilities of the machine (by which I mean all the live and on-demand classes), you'll need to pay an additional $38 per month for a subscription to the online classes.
Best Water Rowing Machine
Exercise Equipment That Doubles As A Work Of Art
If you're looking to be challenged with your rowing machine, literally and figuratively, the Ergatta is a good choice. While it has the same functionality as other rowers—you can do free, steady-state rows and workouts of your own design—it also has a game-based workout platform wherein you can virtually race other rowers, do training sessions, compete in challenges, and more with the 17.3 inch HD monitor. A horizontally mounted water tank delivers the adjustable resistance.
Like Hydrow, there's a monthly membership fee, though it’s more affordable ($29 per month) for the additional features. And it’s definitely worth noting that with a cherry wood frame, this Ergatta is visually stunning. While you could store it vertically, we'd understand if you wanted to leave it out all the time for guests to admire.
Best Compact Rowing Machine
Small Footprint, Big Gains
Small but mighty, the Ativafit provides users with a workout that is just as effective as what you get on machines with a larger footprint. It offers eight magnetic resistance levels to help customize your workout, while a LCD monitor tracks your time, speed, distance and calories torched. It also boasts a sturdy construction, so it'll last a long time.
Crucially, for those looking for something compact: it's a mere 60.6 inches long, 21.2 inches wide and 26 inches tall—and it's foldable for easy storage. A set of wheels make it extra portable.
Best Foldable Rowing Machine
Easy To Use And Easy To Store
If you're interested in rowing but don't have a lot of space to spare, you might consider a foldable rig. Echelon's Row Connected Rowing Machine relies on a magnetic resistance system and is one of the few that truly folds (most are simply made to be stored upright or taken apart).
Beyond its origami-like capabilities, what sets this ergometer apart is the resistance buttons built into the handlebar, so you can toggle the intensity up or down without mid-stroke. Another cool design element is the device holder, where you can place a phone or tablet.
Best High-Tech Rowing Machine
Not Ever When The Workout Ends With Tips So You Can Improve
Rowing machines have become increasingly high-tech in the last few years, but NordicTrack’s RW900 might take the cake. With resistance delivered by magnets across a wide 26 levels, it’s among the most adjustable magnetic rowers. And not only can you stream classes on-demand with personal trainers, but your trainer can adjust your resistance automatically so you can focus on your technique (and getting your workout in).
Once you've completed your row, you get access to workout stats on the 22-inch rotating Smart HD touchscreen and tips on what you can do to improve. NordicTrack also has a patented SpaceSaver Design, meaning it folds for easy storage.
