Introduction
Rowing is one of the most effective ways to get in shape, and it’s a lot easier on your joints than most other cardio machines. My unbiased rowing machine review will help you find the best one for your space and your budget. There’s a wide range of machines on the market, which can make picking a good one a little confusing. The right machine for you depends on how much space you have at home, your fitness goals, your budget, and how long you plan to keep using it. I’ve broken it down below to make the decision easier.
Purchasing a rowing machine is a major investment, so you need to be aware of the features, pros, cons, and everything else before deciding to buy the equipment. The best rowing machines offer quality construction and durability along with the features that actually help maintain cardiovascular fitness. There are a lot of models to choose from. Many rowing machines are light enough to be easily moved from one room to the other, and some rowers can even fold up for easy storage.
Compared to a stationary bike or treadmill, rowing machines tend to burn more calories and tone your body more effectively, since a single stroke works your legs, core, and arms together. Rowing not only burns a high amount of calories during the activity but also keeps burning calories for a while after you’ve stopped working out. This is called the “after-burn effect”, and it’s seldom seen with other exercise equipment.
Types of Rowing Machine
There are 4 different types of rowing machines based on how they generate resistance, the intensity of the generated resistance, and their functional design. All rowing machines have similar designs but what makes them different from each other is their way of providing resistance. Resistance is the most important factor which makes your workout effective. There are 4 types of resistance that rowing machines have:
Air Resistance
This is the best kind of resistance with the best technology in the market right now. Air rowing machines are equipped with air flywheels and provide resistance through them. They come with a resistance tension option that helps in making the workout more difficult by adjusting the amount of air that is allowed to pass into the flywheel.
Water Resistance
Water rowing machines are popular amongst athletes and professional rowers because of the friction and resistance it generates. They have a water-filled flywheel for increased resistance. It gives a similar experience of rowing in the water.
Hydraulic Resistance
Hydraulic rowing machines are the most common ones. If you have just started rowing and are on a budget then these machines are the ones that you should go with. These machines are powered by cylinders with oil which makes them light weighted and easy to store. These machines also include handlebars that provide arm workout as well, that the other models are not equipped with.
Magnetic Resistance
Magnetic rowing machines are the cheapest options, they are light and simple to use. They have an adjustable resistance system and are quiet and smooth. These are ideal for an exact measuring of a workout and also provide very accurate resistance.
Each type of resistance has its own benefits and gives a unique rowing experience, so choose the best that suits your comfort and needs.
Factors to Consider Before Buying
- Resistance: As I have earlier mentioned that there are four types of machines based on resistance. They are Hydraulic, Air, Water, and Magnetic. Here I will tell you which one you should go for and why.
- Price: These machines have varied price ranges. The top range machines cost from $1,000 to even $3,000. These high-cost rowing machines are usually seen in Gym and Fitness centers. I have listed some best machines under $1,000 and under $500, which are running flawlessly for me and some of my friends who bought them.
- You might wonder if I say that there are decent rowing machines under $100. If you are under tight budget then you can prefer under $100 to $500, or else go with top range as they have extra features packed with them.
- Size: If you are buying for home purposes as the vacant place will be less, then you need to go for a less space occupying machine. Or else, for professional use you can get one with occupying more space.
- Comfort: The other factor that shouldn’t miss is the comfort. Though some machines look good, have more features they may not feel comfortable. As you row daily, the machine should feel comfortable with padded seats and handlebar. While reviewing every machine we check the comfort and rate.
Extra Features
- Air: These are the most common type of machines. These machines are equipped with fly-wheel. The resistance level can be adjusted with a notch that enables you to row hard and with comfort levels. These machines use fly-wheel to generate air resistance as you pull the handlebars away. These generate high noise and also adjustment of air resistance is difficult. The most common air rowing machine is the Concept2 RowErg.
- Water: These model machines seem to row using actual water. The machines lack resistance adjustment, but it is possible by rowing at a faster pace. These being the costliest machines and also heavier than others. Check out our WaterRower reviews which helps you to decide which one to choose. Mostly, these types of machines are suitable for outdoor.
Benefits of Rowing Machine Workout
- If losing weight or getting rid of excess body fat is your goal, rowing can be your savior. Following a healthy diet along with rowing can help drastically in losing weight.
- Rowing Machine is the most popular among the fitness equipment.
- It lets us the entire body and is great for cardio, as well. It is suitable for men and women.
- As they come with adjustable resistance they are suitable from beginners to intermediate users.
- It is also perfect for home workouts.
- First and foremost it works the entire body by stimulating the rowing motion.
- As they come with a sliding seat the efficiency of the exercise is even better.
- It is great for working the core muscles: The core muscles are used constantly in order to stabilize your body during the motion. By rowing regularly it can strengthen and tone your ab muscles as well as the lower back.
- It also works your legs: Since you have to push yourself back on the machine your legs are worked. It trains all your leg muscles such as the glutes, hamstrings, and quads.
- Benefits include: Weight Loss, Cardio Benefits, Stress Reduce, and Muscle Toning.
Brands
Best Rowing Machine Reviews
Sunny SF-RW1205 Health & Fitness Rowing Machine with 12 Adjustable Resistance Review
The Sunny SF-RW1205 has set a new standard in home fitness rowing machines. It offers all the features that anyone can ask for at such a budgeted price. It provides amazing cardio workout along with building muscles and burning calories. This rowing machine is highly recommended because of its top-notch features at such an affordable price.
It is a hydraulic resistance rowing machine with 12 adjustable resistance levels to choose from. It is perfect for beginners and intermediates alike due to the adjustable levels. You can easily adjust it to your level and workout and gradually increase the levels, with the increase in your stamina. It provides low impact exercises that are great for a full-body workout. It targets multiple muscle groups such as back, arms, legs, abs, gluts, etc.
Pros
- Great rower beginners
- Affordable price
- Ease of assembling
- Smooth and sturdy with even rowing
- Compact and lightweight
- Adjustable resistance while on the seat
Cons
- Insufficient resistance for professional rowers
- Basic monitor with no backlit
- Not comfortable for tall users
Verdict
At such an unbelievable price, the SF-RW1205 rowing machine has received numerous praises for being easy to use, safe, and extremely comfortable. It is one of the cheapest rowing machines you can find, but nevertheless, it is very stable and sturdy with robust construction and can go on for years.
At such an affordable price, it offers great resistance with quiet and smooth rowing.
Stamina BodyTrac Glider Rowing Machine 1052 Review
Stamina Body Trac Glider 1052 is another best and the most affordable rowing machines in the market. It is a very strong contender in its price range for the features it offers. It has a hydraulic resistance that is usually quiet and makes no noise. The resistance is adjustable and the gas shock is placed just below your seat for your convenience while adjusting. It has 12 levels of resistance to choose from, that can suit the needs of all body types and people. It is a low priced rowing machine with a lot of benefits.
You can adjust the resistance level according to your rowing speed, starting from level 1 and gradually up to the 12th level. This machine provides a stimulating full-body workout and is a wonderful rowing machine with great resistance for beginners.
Pros
- Solid and sturdy construction
- Steel frame
- Compact design
- Very lightweight
- Easy storage facilities with transport wheels
- Adjustable resistance for different fitness levels
- Dual handles that simulate rowing with a full range of motion
- Long gliding track and comfortable seats
- Safe hand gliders
- Easy assembly
Cons
- Foot-strap design which is rather uncomfortable for placing feet
- Un-adjustable resistance level while the machine is in use as the gas shock gets heated up
- Possible leakage of gas shock
Sunny SF-RW5515 Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine Rower Review
Stay in shape with the top of the line Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine. This rowing machine provides a full-body workout by targeting all the major muscle groups like arms, back, legs, abdominal area, glutes, etc.,
It provides an intense but enjoyable rowing experience in the comfort of your own home, at such a reasonable and unbelievable price. It provides all kinds of low impact aerobics and the cardiovascular exercise and also allows you to lose weight and keep in shape. It can burn a lot of calories in a single day.
Pros
- Strong and smooth resistance
- Reasonable price
- Comfortable seat and sliding
- All heights and weights capacity
- Extremely quiet
- Foldable and easy storage
Cons
- No advanced features in the monitor
- Large footprint
- The very small warranty period
Sunny SF-RW5622 Dual-Function Magnetic Rowing Machine Review
The Sunny SF-RW5622 is a nice step up for anyone who found the Kettler-style hydraulic rowers a little too basic. It swaps out hydraulic pistons for a magnetic tension system, which means the pull feels smoother and a lot quieter, no more clunky, uneven resistance halfway through a stroke. You get 8 levels to work with, which won’t satisfy a serious rower chasing precise wattage numbers, but it’s plenty for interval training and steady-state cardio at home.
What sets this one apart is the dual-function foot plates built into the frame. Flip the seat rail up and out of the way and you’ve got a compact standing station for arm curls, presses, and other resistance-band moves, a genuinely useful bonus for small apartments where every piece of equipment needs to pull double duty. The whole unit also tilts and rolls upright in seconds, so it tucks into a closet corner instead of eating up floor space full-time.
Pros
- Smooth, quiet magnetic resistance
- Folds and stores upright in seconds
- Dual-function plates add an upper-body option
- Comfortable padded seat and grips
- Budget-friendly price point
Cons
- Only 8 resistance levels, not enough for advanced rowers
- Basic digital monitor with no backlight
- Shorter rail can feel tight if you’re over 6 feet tall
Verdict
If you liked the idea of a simple, no-frills rower but want something quieter and more space-efficient than an old-school hydraulic model, the SF-RW5622 is an easy recommendation. It won’t replace a serious training machine, but for beginners and casual home gym use it punches well above its price.
Concept2 RowErg (Tall) Review
Concept2 renamed its long-running Model D and Model E lineup to the RowErg a few years back, but it’s still the same rock-solid air-resistance machine that Olympic teams, CrossFit gyms, and just about every serious rowing coach recommends. You choose your leg height at checkout: the standard 14-inch seat or the tall-leg version (what used to be called the Model E), which sits about six inches higher and makes getting on and off a lot easier if you’ve got knee or hip issues, or if you’re just tall.
Resistance comes from a flywheel that spins against air, so the harder and faster you pull, the more resistance you feel, there’s no dial to fiddle with, just your own effort. The PM5 monitor is still the gold standard for tracking split times, distance, and calories, and it syncs over Bluetooth to apps like the Concept2 ErgData app or connected fitness platforms if you want to log your workouts.
The frame is 9 feet long when assembled but separates into two pieces in seconds for storage, with caster wheels that make rolling it into a closet painless. It carries a 5-year frame warranty and a 500-pound capacity, and the nickel-plated chain and sealed flywheel mean it needs almost no maintenance beyond an occasional wipe-down.
Pros
- Trusted by Olympic and CrossFit-level athletes for a reason
- Tall-leg option makes getting on and off far easier
- Comes apart in two pieces for compact storage
- PM5 monitor tracks pace, distance, and calories with real accuracy
- 5-year frame warranty and legendary durability
- Bluetooth connectivity for apps and heart rate monitors
Cons
- Takes up a fairly large footprint when assembled
- Air resistance can be noisier than a magnetic or water rower
- No touchscreen or built-in classes like the newer smart rowers
Verdict
The Concept2 RowErg is the machine most rowing coaches point beginners toward, and for good reason: it’s durable, accurate, and easy to maintain for years of daily use. If your knees or back make getting low a chore, spring for the tall-leg version, it’s the same machine with a much more comfortable entry and exit.
BodyCraft VR500 Rower Review
BodyCraft VR500 Commercial Rower offers adjustable resistance. You can have great enjoyment with noise efficient and lightweight rowers. In fact, the best quality workouts are offered through the resistance offered by the rower. There are various kinds of models in the market.
BodyCraft VR500 commercial rower is the best rower with which all your workout needs will be fulfilled without fail. The unit comes with a black mask LCD with LED-backlit monitor. The display and keys are visible so that you can make the most of your time and money. The magnetic resistance is produced through the electronically controlled eddy current. There are remote resistance controls that offer ergonomically correct comfort. For grip, the aluminum handlebar is provided.
The adjustments will be done very quickly through the quick-adjust foot straps. You will also find deluxe adjustable heel rest. The rower can be easily managed with the easy fold and roll system. The heavy-duty I-beam monorail is made with very high strength T13 Aluminum. The product is designed and manufactured after a great deal of research. All the latest technology is incorporated so that commercial rower can be managed very easily.
The company produces the finest rowing simulators in the market. Industrial grade bearings are used so that there will not be any noise during the operation of the rower. The dimensions of BodyCraft VR500 Commercial Rower are 98.5” x 20” x 38.5”. The weight of the product is 101 pounds. In order to burn fat in a very efficient way, you should have routine workouts. When you burn the fat, the muscle mass will be enhanced so that there will be higher energy levels. The unnecessary fat will be eliminated from your body so that you will have great satisfaction.
The readings can be observed on the machine and you can program it as per your targets. You can find out the progress on a daily basis. The number of calories burnt can be noticed and you will find weight loss which will be very accurate. The heart rate monitor will work even though you stretch your legs. The soft and durable handlebar will allow you to use the machine as per your convenience and you will perform workouts without fail.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed contoured seat
- Precision extruded aluminum track
- The most seasonal rowing machine available in the market
- Clean performance
- 4 user profiles can be maintained
- 12 program profiles can be managed very easily (including 4 racing, 4 heart rate, 2 intervals, and 1 custom)
- Consistent resistance will be offered throughout strokes
Cons
- You should be energetic to use the rowing machine
- Large footprint
Verdict
BodyCraft VR500 commercial rower is made with air and magnetic resistance. There are 32 levels of adjustments during rowing from buttons on the handlebar. You will find a very soft, durable, and comfortable handlebar. The operations that can be performed with the rower is very great. You will be able to get the best performance as the magnetic resistance based rowing machines deliver the highest performance on a consistent basis.
You can go for BodyCraft VR500 commercial rower without any hesitation if you are not concerned about the price. The rower will deliver the highest performance in an effortless manner so that fat burning will be efficient. In order to make the most of your time, effort, and money, you can go through the reviews. There is a number of satisfied customers. BodyCraft VR500 commercial rower is meant for commercial operations so that athletes, sportsmen, and various people who are aware of health will use it to build strong muscle. You can purchase the product without any hesitation.
WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine Review
The WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine comes with Series 4 performance meter. Your workout intensity can be tracked very easily. The intensity, stroke rate, heart rate, and many more parameters can be gauged in a very efficient manner. The sound is well absorbed by the honey oak construction which is made up of solid ash and stained honey. The vibration is also arrested in an efficient way.
The dimensions of the WaterRower Natural rowing machine are 84” x 21” x 22”. The weight of the unit is 117 pounds. The rowing machine is prepared with solid ash wood. It is finished with the honey oak stain and Danish oil. The dynamics of the boat are emulated in a very efficient way through the water flywheel. You will get great physical and psychological benefits with the workouts done on the rowing machine.
There will not be much stress on your knees when you perform workouts on a well-designed rowing machine. A WaterRower Natural rowing machine will certainly fit into your needs so that you can make the most of your time, effort, and money. Your rowing experience will be taken to the next level with WaterRower. When compared with other products present in the market, the WaterRower Natural rowing machine will deliver very high performance. There will be great change in your physical and mental health. There will not be much noise while operating the machine. Thus, you will be considerate towards children, pets, and neighbors as you for your routine exercising routines.
Pros
- Same principles that govern the natural boat will be used
- A smooth ride is provided through two paddles which are enclosed in a tank of water
- There are no moving parts. Hence, no scope to wear out
- comes with a self-regulating resistance system so that motor need is eliminated
- More resistance is provided through the increased drag
- The resistance will be less intense when you paddle slower
- There is no limit to your rowing power as it is dependent on your strength
- No jerks are produced during the rowing operations
Cons
- The machine is expensive. However, if you are serious about weight reduction and would like to gain muscle mass, you can choose the WaterRower Natural rowing machine.
- The monitor can be upgraded to give better results
Verdict
The WaterRower Natural rowing machine is a great natural aid through which weight loss can be attempted in an efficient manner. You can enhance muscle strength so that there will be great change in your body. The muscle burning capacity of the rowing machine is higher than aerobics. As the rowing machine will give you great workout performance without any strain on your knees, ankles, and hips, you can use the same for your benefit without any issues. Hence, you can purchase WaterRower Natural rowing machine so that muscle mass can be enhanced and weight reduction can be achieved.
This natural rowing machine is made up of superfine patented technology. There will not be any noise during the operation. There will not be any jerks that take place through the conventional boating operation. Thus, the drawbacks of the conventional boat riding experience are eliminated and the best features of boat peddling are presented through the WaterRower Natural rowing machine. It is a value for money product through which you can shed weight without any side effects. The muscle mass will be very much enhanced and it is possible to emerge victorious in various competitions.
Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine Review
The Hydrow Wave is the compact version of Hydrow’s connected rowing machine, built for anyone who wants the on-demand class experience without giving up half their living room. It uses electromagnetic drag for resistance instead of air or hydraulics, so the stroke is nearly silent, you can row early in the morning or during a video call without anyone noticing.
The 16-inch HD touchscreen streams thousands of live and on-demand workouts filmed on actual rivers and lakes around the world, plus strength, yoga, and mobility sessions for cross-training days. It folds up and can be stored upright against a wall, which makes it a realistic option for apartments where a full-size rower just won’t fit. Keep in mind the machine requires a monthly membership (around $44) to unlock the full workout library, so factor that into the real cost before you buy.
Pros
- Whisper-quiet electromagnetic resistance
- Compact, foldable design that suits small spaces
- Huge library of live and on-demand scenic rows
- Coaching and class format keeps workouts motivating
- 375-pound weight capacity
Cons
- Requires a monthly subscription to access most content
- Higher upfront price than a traditional rower
- Needs a power outlet and Wi-Fi to get full use out of it
Verdict
If what’s stopped you from sticking with a rowing routine in the past is boredom rather than the workout itself, the Hydrow Wave solves that problem better than almost anything else on this list. It’s not cheap once you add the subscription, but for people who thrive on guided classes and a bit of accountability, it’s worth the extra cost.
FITNESS REALITY 1000 PLUS Bluetooth Magnetic Rowing Rower with Extended Optional Full Body Exercises and MyCloudFitness App Review
The FITNESS REALITY 1000 Plus is one of the best rowing machines that embraces modern technology, such as Bluetooth and mobile apps. In fact, this is one of the best-priced machines with such features you can get on the market.
When it comes to the nuts and bolts, this machine also has some quite decent features that can match much more expensive models. It has a comfortable, big seat, the handle is well-padded and wide, and the beam is sloped and just the right height for climbing on and off it without any issues. If you are a tall person, you’d be happy to know that this beam is long enough to support users up to 6’6’’ in height!
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to assemble
- Quiet
- Great for taller people
- Wide seat
- 14 magnetic resistance levels
- Great footrest
Cons
- Inaccurate metrics
- Rough pull
- Hard to fold up
Verdict
The FITNESS REALITY 1000 Plus is a great budget-friendly option for those looking to find a decent rowing machine. While it isn’t the most high-quality product out there, it is still durable and sturdy. It is also one of the best options if you are a taller rower.
This rower machine also has a great Bluetooth App that can help you track and save results on your smartphone.
Health Benefits of Rowing Machine
Here are the top 12 health benefits of using a rowing machine listed below.
- Easy Aerobic Exercise: Exercise should be fun, it should be easy. That is exactly how exercise is when you use a rowing machine.
- For All Age Groups: One rowing machine can be shared with anyone of any age. There is no age barrier to using a rowing machine.
- Weight Loss: Rowing exercises are one of the fastest methods of losing weight. One research showed that one set of exercise can kill 600 calories in an hour if done right.
- Upper Body Care: If you have fascinations for your upper body, the rowing machine will help you. It builds the top muscles to make you look like a bodybuilder.
- Lower Body Workout: Similarly like the Upper body, the lower body workouts are easy to do in a rowing machine and helps you to build critical muscles on thighs and hips.
- Convenient: With a rowing machine, you don’t have to be on the topwater to have that fun. Rowing machines bring the same fun at your doorstep.
- Endurance: These machines make you work hard without letting you know that you are actually working hard. Thus, the exercise is always more effective on a rowing machine.
- Affordable: It doesn’t cost a fortune to go ahead and buy a rowing machine. They are cheap compared to the benefits that they offer.
- Easy to Learn: You don’t have to spend a month learning the art of rowing machines. You can learn everything within five minutes. Learning is easy, and so is working out on a rowing machine.
- Super Fun: 80% of people do not continue the exercise with different exercise machines simply because it is not fun enough. You do not have that problem with a rowing machine. They are great fun!
Conclusion
With all these amazing rowing machines at such reasonable prices, we can now say that you do not need thousands of dollars in order to purchase a good quality rowing machine. You can get a high-intensity full-body workout and all the other benefits of a rowing machine at many affordable prices. So, get one of these great rowers for your home gym and get started with your workout sessions. All the above-mentioned rowing machines are excellent for all your home-fitness needs and what’s more, they fit within your budget. These budget rowing machines will suit both your financial and exercise needs alike, giving you a fit body and well-maintained health.
Rowing Machines: Frequently Asked Questions
Air, water, magnetic, or hydraulic resistance — which is best?
Air resistance, as on the Concept2, scales with your effort and is the durable gym and competition standard, if a little loud. Water rowers feel and sound realistic and are quieter but heavy. Magnetic is the quietest and most compact. Hydraulic piston units are the cheapest and smallest but limited in feel.
Is rowing a good full-body workout?
Yes. It works the legs, back, core, and arms — roughly 60 percent legs and 40 percent upper body — with almost no joint impact, building cardio and muscular endurance together.
How much space does a rowing machine need?
About 8 feet by 2 feet in use. A Concept2 separates into two pieces for storage, and many water and magnetic rowers stand upright against a wall — check your ceiling height for that.
Is a rowing machine hard on your back?
Only with poor form — rounding the lower back under load. Done correctly, driving with the legs then the hips then the arms and reversing that on the return, it is back-friendly. Learn the sequence before adding intensity.
Concept2 or a connected rower like Hydrow?
The Concept2 offers unbeatable durability and value, a capable monitor, and no subscription. A connected rower adds instructor-led classes and scenery on a large screen but needs a monthly fee and is less proven over time. Buy Concept2 to train, a connected rower for motivation.
How long do rowing machines last?
A Concept2 routinely lasts twenty years or more with a chain oiling every 50 hours. Water rowers need occasional purification tablets. Inexpensive hydraulic machines tend to wear out within a few years.
Published: 5th Feb, 2025 · Last Updated: 31st Aug, 2026
We re-check the picks in this guide periodically and update it when models are discontinued or better options appear.
Tumay Kilinc
Tumay co-founded ReviewsByPeople.com in 2018 and focuses on turning long, confusing buying decisions into straightforward recommendations across electronics, outdoor gear, pets, beauty, clothing, and home & garden. Reviews are built by comparing real specs and verified buyer feedback rather than repeating marketing copy, and reader questions in the comments get read and answered directly.
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