If you’re looking for a full-body, low-impact workout without leaving the comfort of your home, a rowing machine is one of the smartest investments you can make. Designed to mimic the motion of rowing on water, these machines build endurance, burn calories, and strengthen both upper and lower body muscles simultaneously.
This comprehensive guide explores the best rowing machines for home use, breaking them down by type, features, price, and user experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, you’ll find detailed rowing machine reviews to help you make an informed purchase.
Why Choose a Rowing Machine?
Before we discuss specific products, it’s important to understand why rowing machines are so popular—especially in 2025.
- Full-body workout: Engages over 85% of your muscles
- Low-impact: Easier on joints than running or weightlifting
- Compact design: Many models fold up or store vertically
- Versatile: Suitable for weight loss, cardio, and strength training
- Quiet operation: Especially with magnetic or water resistance
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As more people build personal gyms at home, rowing machines have emerged as top home rowers due to their efficiency, compactness, and scalability.
Top 7 Best Rowing Machines for Home Use
Here are some of the highest-rated machines currently on the market, categorized by resistance type and price range.
- Concept2 Model D Rower (PM5 Monitor)
- Resistance Type: Air
- Best For: Serious athletes, CrossFit users
Arguably the most iconic rower on the market, the Concept2 Model D has been the gold standard in gyms and training facilities worldwide. It’s known for its durability, accuracy, and real-time tracking using the PM5 Performance Monitor.
Pros:
Commercial-grade quality
Smooth air resistance
Highly accurate performance metrics
Cons:
Noisy (due to air fan)
Larger footprint
Verdict: This is a clear winner for anyone serious about performance training. While it’s not cheap, its resale value and reputation make it a wise long-term investment.
- Hydrow Rower
- Resistance Type: Magnetic + Live Digital
- Best For: Interactive home workouts, luxury experience
Hydrow brings rowing into the connected fitness era. With its 22-inch HD screen, immersive river workouts, and virtually silent resistance, it’s one of the top home rowers for tech-savvy fitness enthusiasts.
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Pros:
Live and on-demand workouts
Sleek design
Ultra-quiet magnetic resistance
Cons:
Expensive
Subscription required for full functionality
Verdict: If Peloton made a rowing machine, this would be it. Hydrow is perfect for those who crave studio-style workouts at home.
- Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine (SF-RW5515)
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Best For: Beginners and budget-conscious users
The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rower offers solid value for those looking for affordable rowing equipment. It features eight adjustable resistance levels and a basic LCD for time, count, and calories.
Pros:
Affordable
Quiet operation
Compact and foldable
Cons:
Limited resistance range
Basic tracking features
Verdict: This is a great entry-level option that gets the job done without bells and whistles. It is ideal for low—to moderate-intensity home workouts.
- WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine
- Resistance Type: Water
- Best For: Users who want realistic, soothing workouts
With its handcrafted wooden frame and water tank, the WaterRower offers one of the most authentic rowing experiences. Each stroke sounds and feels like actual water rowing, making it a favorite among rowing purists.
Pros:
Realistic water resistance
Beautiful aesthetics
Smooth glide and operation
Cons:
No advanced tech features
Higher price for minimal screen options
Verdict: A combination of function and form, this rower looks like furniture and performs like gym equipment. It’s the best choice for those seeking a natural rowing feel.
- NordicTrack RW900
- Resistance Type: Magnetic + Air
- Best For: Interactive training, performance feedback
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The RW900 is a hybrid rowing machine with dual resistance and a 22-inch touchscreen that streams iFit workouts. Its automatic resistance adjustments take the guesswork out of training.
Pros:
Live trainer control
Foldable design
Multiple resistance modes
Cons:
Hefty price tag
Monthly subscription required
Verdict: One of the best rowing machines for connected workouts. It offers excellent resistance variety and interactive features for those who want structure in their training.
- Echelon Row-S Smart Rower
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Best For: Fitness app users, modern home gyms
Like Hydrow and NordicTrack, the Echelon Row-S includes a built-in rotating screen and app-based classes. It’s designed for people who enjoy being part of a digital fitness community.
Pros:
Rotating HD screen
Interactive classes
Compact for small spaces
Cons:
Needs Wi-Fi and app subscription
Some users report setup complexity
Verdict: Echelon makes modern training fun and engaging. Great for homes with limited space but unlimited ambition.
- Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050
- Resistance Type: Hydraulic
- Price Range: $
- Best For: Beginners and occasional use
Looking for an ultra-budget rowing machine? The Stamina BodyTrac Glider uses hydraulic resistance with a unique arm movement to mimic rowing strokes more naturally.
Pros:
Very affordable
Compact footprint
Decent beginner option
Cons:
Resistance heats up over time
Not for high-performance users
Verdict: Best for casual users or those tight on space. It’s not built for advanced training but serves well for light cardio and toning.
Choosing Between Rowing Machine Types
There are four main types of resistance systems:
| Type | Feel | Noise Level | Best For |
| Air | Smooth, dynamic resistance | Loud | CrossFit, competitive training |
| Magnetic | Silent, consistent resistance | Very Quiet | Apartment use, varied workouts |
| Water | Realistic, wave-like feel | Moderate | Traditional rowing feel |
| Hydraulic | Compact, basic resistance | Quiet | Budget-conscious, casual users |
Your ideal rower may vary depending on your goals and environment (e.g., apartment vs. garage).
Features to Look for in the Best Rowing Machines
When scanning rowing machine reviews, keep these criteria in mind:
- Resistance Type: Match it to your training style
- Space & Storage: Foldable vs. fixed frame
- Display Monitor: Performance tracking, heart rate, calories
- Comfort: Seat ergonomics, handle grip, footrest stability
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, app integration, live workouts
- Weight Capacity: Ensure it fits all users in the household
FAQs: Your Rowing Machine Questions Answered
- What is the best rowing machine for beginners?
For beginners, the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rower offers a solid, no-frills introduction to rowing. It’s affordable, quiet, and easy to use without overwhelming tech.
- Are water rowing machines better than magnetic ones?
Not necessarily. Water rowing machines offer a more realistic feel, while magnetic rowers are quieter and better for indoor spaces. The best choice depends on your preference for sound and resistance style.
- How much space does a rowing machine need?
Most full-size rowers are around 7–8 feet long. However, many fold or store vertically. Measure your floor space and check the product specs before purchasing.
- What’s the difference between Air and magnetic resistance?
Air resistance increases with the speed of your row, offering a dynamic workout. Magnetic resistance remains consistent and is much quieter, making it better suited for apartments or shared spaces.
- Can rowing help with weight loss?
Yes! Rowing burns many calories, engages multiple muscle groups, and is excellent for cardiovascular health. With consistent use, it’s highly effective for fat loss and overall fitness.
- How often should I use my rowing machine?
Most fitness experts recommend 3–5 times per week, depending on your fitness goals. Even 20-minute sessions can produce noticeable results over time.
- What is the most affordable quality rowing machine?
The Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 is one of the most affordable machines that still delivers a decent workout. The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 is an excellent budget-friendly model for a magnetic option.
Final Thoughts
When building your home gym, choosing the best rowing machine is a decision that can shape your fitness journey for years to come. With so many options—from high-end tech-driven models to affordable rowing equipment—there’s a perfect fit for every budget, lifestyle, and training goal.
Whether chasing personal records or simply trying to stay healthy, rowing offers one of the most comprehensive workouts available. Pick a machine that fits your space, training needs, and budget, and row your way to better health—one stroke at a time.