The rowing machine gives a full-body workout and that makes the best rowing machines one of the most vital gym equipment you should consider while preparing your home gym.
Staying fit is important to the physical fitness and health of the body and a rowing machine is a high-intensity fitness machine. It offers a high fitness level and burns calories faster.
Furthermore, being a low-impact exercise machine makes it even more beneficial as you will be less prone to injuries during your workout. Its versatility makes it one of the most vital fitness equipment you will find even in a commercial gym.
We recognize how vital this piece of equipment is and decided to help your search by reviewing the best rowers you should consider in your searching process. This is a complete buyer’s guide as we do not only review these products but also educate you more on rowing machines and steps to take in selecting the best rowers.
Smart Navigation
What is the Best Rowing Machine for Home Use? Top 12 Comparison Table
Buyers’ Guide: How to Select the Best Rowing Machines
Selecting the best rowing machine starts from knowing what to look out for in a rower. Below are some vital and pertinent factors you should consider or look out for while selecting your rowing machine:
1. Type of Rowing Machine (Resistance Mechanism)
The type of rower is categorized according to their resistance mechanism and there are three major types of rowing machine/resistance mechanism. Selecting the best will start from knowing what type you want and what is more suitable for you.
- Air Resistance Rowing Machine
- Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine
- Water Resistance Rowing Machine
- Hydraulic Resistance Rowing Machine
Air Resistance Rowing Machine
These types make use of wind to generate resistance to increase or decrease difficulty. They are made with flywheel and fan blades that spin when the user pulls the handle, thereby generating wind. The faster you engage the handle, the more wind it generates and thereby increases the resistance. This means the difficulty increases with the intensity of rowing.
Air rowers have dampers and that controls the amount of air that will enter into the flywheel. This can be used to control the resistance. This type of rower simulates real-life rowing and is mostly used by professional athletes to practice and heavy rowers.
Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine
These rowing machines generate resistance through eddies current from the magnetic field created by the magnetic brake. They are commonest among other rowing machines and their resistance level is not responsive like air and water rowers. Magnetic rowers have quiet operations and that makes them more suitable for homes and apartments.
Water Resistance Rowing Machine
These are heavier and bulkier than other rowers because they are made with a water tank and must be filled with water before they are used. There is a paddle inside the water tank that spins to generate resistance when its handle is pulled. They give the feeling of real-life rowing due to the splashing sound of the water during your exercise. Furthermore, just like air rowers, their resistance is also responsive; it increases with the intensity of rowing.
Hydraulic Resistance Rowing Machine
These are not popular like the other three rowers discussed above. Other rowers keep the feet stationary with the seat moving alone but in hydraulic, both the seat and foot straps will move when you are rowing. They are more like magnetic as their resistance is not responsive and can only be adjusted through the resistance knob.
2. Weight Capacity
Weight capacity is vital before selecting a product after you are done settling the type of resistance mechanism you want. The recommended weight capacity of the rowing machine must be greater than your body weight to ensure your safety and long-lasting of your rower.
3. The dimension of the Rower (Space Consideration)
Some rowing machines are heavy and bulky in size while some are compact. The question to ask is, how much space you have to accommodate a rower and that will be what will help you in choosing the rower with the appropriate dimension for your home.
Most rowing machines for home use should be foldable, we recommend you to go for products you can easily fold into a compact for storage especially for people who live in small apartments.
4. Buyers Review
Getting information from previous users is vital and my team and I had to hear from previous users of our top selected best rowing machines for home use. Reading reviews from online stores like Amazon and Wal-Mart can be golden at helping you get the best experience of previous users. It is vital to also read recent reviews as most products are improved by the maker.
5. Price/Budget
Rowing machines come at different prices and your budget will determine what you buy. As much as we recommend expensive rowers especially if you can afford them, we understand you may not need the expensive ones may be due to budget. Furthermore, the less expensive ones are more recommended for people who don’t row every day and for backup purposes to your expensive rower.
6. Frequency of Usage
There are heavy rowers who will use the machine every day while we have people who may not use it more than three times in a week. What rowing machine you go for will be determined by the frequency of usage. Heavy rowers and commercial purposes will need heavy-duty rowers that can withstand frequent usage while light rowers may not have to go for these rowers.
Best Rowing Machine for Home Use: Top 12 Reviews
#1. Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 Performance Monitor: Top Choice
Quick Specifications
- Price: $$$$
- Type: Air Rowing Machine
- Height of Seat: 14-inches
- Weight of Rower: 57 pounds
- Damper level: 1-10
- Max Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
After much back and forth checking out many rowing machines, we settled with this as our top choice for the best rowing machine. The rower has been purchased by many buyers with positive feedbacks from previous users.
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine has a high weight capacity of 500 pounds making it a suitable rower for almost everyone. The exercise machine is not foldable; however, to ensure easy storage and management of space, it can be easily separated into two separate units. The two parts are easily assembled with eight screws.
It is not only strong for both heavyweight and petite folks, but it also has a long inseam length of 38 inches that makes it suitable for tall and short people. This makes it one of the best choices for home and commercial purposes.
Furthermore, Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine comes with a performance monitor (PM5) that displays workout data like distance, pace, watts, and calories burnt.
What We Like
- It is a suitable rowing machine for everyone (heavy, petite, tall, and short)
- Reduced noise level especially for an air rowing machine
- A good warranty period of 2 years on parts and 5 years on frame
- Bluetooth connectivity option to sync with fitness apps and monitor your fitness
- The best-selling air rowing machine
- Detachable for easy storage and space management
What We Do Not Like
- It is very expensive.
See More: Best Air Resistance Rowing Machines
#2. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine Rower SF-RW5515
Quick Specifications
- Price:$
- Type: Magnetic Rowing Machine
- Resistance level: 1-8
- Max Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
- Assembled Dimension: 82L x 19W x 23H inches
- Dimension when folded: 37L X 19W X 53. 5H inches
- Slide rail length:: 48 inches
- Inseam length: 44 inches
This is our top choice if you are on a budget and need the best buy for the money. There are less expensive rowing machines for home use and we find this product to be a good option you should consider.
Sunny SF-RW5515 Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine has a weight capacity of 250 pounds which may not be suitable for heavyweight users. However, its long inseam length makes it suitable for both short and tall people.
It is a magnetic resistance rowing machine; therefore, its level of resistance can be easily adjusted to the fitness level of the user. Level 1-3 for the beginners while 7-8 for the expert rowers.
You can also fold Sunny SF-RW5515 Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine easily into a compact size, making it easier to store. Its transport wheels make it even easier to move from one place to the other for easier storage.
What We Like
- Quality rowing machine at a very affordable price
- The non-slip pedals come with adjustable straps to hold the feet in place
- Very silent operation
- Comfortable cushioned seat for premium comfort
- Long inseam length to suit both tall and short users
- Transport wheels available for easier movement from one place to the other in the home
- Adjustable magnetic resistance level to the fitness level of the user
- Digital monitor screen records workout data
What We Do Not Like
- Low weight capacity making it less suitable for a heavyweight person
#3. NordicTrack RW 900 Rower
Quick Specifications
- Price: $$$$
- Type: Smart Magnetic Rowing Machine
- Resistance Level: 1-25
- Assembled Dimension: 86.5” L x 22” W x 50.4” H
- 22” HD Interactive Touchscreen Display
- Up to 10 years warranty
This is also a very expensive rowing machine and one of the best magnetic resistance rowing machines. It has some features that really set it apart from other magnetic rowers and we believe it will be a good choice for home use.
Unlike other magnetic resistance rowing machines, NordicTrack RW 900 Rower has the ability to smartly adjust to the intensity of rowing. This is most likely the only magnetic rower with responsive resistance.
Connecting with your fitness trainer and studio is made easier through its 22-inches interactive screen. With this, you can access live studio and training to improve your training right from the comfort of your home.
NordicTrack RW 900 Rower is smart and works silently without making any unwanted noise that could disturb people in the house. It is easy to store due to its compact size, we recommend it for home use.
What We Like
- Its smart magnetic resistance is responsive as it adjusts to rowing intensity
- Wide resistance level range, up to 26 to accommodate different user
- Good warranty period, up to 10 years for buying assurance
- Easy to store due to its foldable feature
- It has free iFit family membership
What We Do Not Like
- It is an expensive rowing machine
#4. Stamina ATS Air Rower | Rowing Machine
Quick Specifications
- Price: $
- Max Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
- Type: Air Resistance Rower
- Height of Seat: 10 inches
- Weight of the rowing machine: 54 pounds
- Users; height recommendation: 4’9”-6’4”
- Assembled Dimension: 77” L x 18” W x 28” H
- Dimension when folded: 48” L x 18” W x 28” H
This is one of the few less expensive rowing machines as it comes at a fair price. It is affordable and will be a good option for those who do would not use it frequently as it may not be strong enough for heavy usage.
With a weight capacity of 250 pounds, Stamina ATS Air Rower may not be a good choice for heavy folks. However, it is strong and durable if your weight falls within its recommended weight limit. It does not wobble and feels sturdy.
We recommend it for home use as it works quietly without disturbing people around with irritating noise. Furthermore, the frame can be folded and that makes it even easier to store and manage space within the home.
Stamina ATS Air Rower offers good comfort during its usage and it’s a very effective rowing machine to guarantee a full-body workout. It is a good product you should check out and one of our selected best rowing machines for home use.
What We Like
- It is air resistance rowing machine and therefore adjusts the difficulty to rowing intensity
- Its foldable feature, making it a good choice for folks with small apartments
- LCD monitor displays almost accurate workout data
- Good and large pedals with straps that secure the feet firmly in place.
What We Do Not Like
- It is not suitable for frequent or heavy usage
- Setting up can be very complicated according to previous buyers.
#5. SNODE Water Rowing Machine
Quick Specifications
- Price: $$
- Type: Water Resistance Rower
- Rower’s Weight: 77 pounds
- Max Weight Capacity: 330 pounds
- Assembled Dimension: 43” L x 21” W x 18” H
- Inseam Length: 40 Inches
- Slide Rail Length: 43 Inches
The rowing machine has many beautiful qualities thereby making it one of our recommended best rowing machines for home use.
SNODE Water Rowing Machine generates its resistance through water and it is equipped with a large water tank to effectively ensure this. The rower gives a similar experience to real boat rowing with water splashing sound and its responsive resistance to rowing intensity.
With the long inseam length, it can be used by both tall and short people, and its high weight capacity, up to 330 pounds makes it a good one for heavyweight people. It can also be folded to manage space well.
Riding on SNODE Water Rowing Machine is very comfortable and it is easy to use and fold. Since its water rowing machine, as expected, it makes “swooshing” sounds from water without any other irritating sound.
What We Like
- A suitable water rower for most users weight
- It is quite affordable
- Large LCD monitor displays workout data
- It can be folded to manage space
- Water can be pumped and removed from the water tank with its siphon pump.
What We Do Not Like
- The water makes sounds as expected during usage.
#6. Schwinn Crewmaster Rowing Machine
Quick Specifications
- Price: $$
- Type: Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine
- Frame Material: Steel
- Max Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Weight of Rower: 1kg
- Resistance level: 1-10
Magnetic resistance is manually adjusted through the knob to increase the difficulty to your fitness level and this particular rower has 10 levels of resistance. This wide resistance range makes it a good choice for both beginners and experts.
Just like other rowers, Schwinn Crewmaster Rowing Machine gives a total body workout and offers good comfort through its padded seat and handle. Also, it is great for home due to its silent operations as expected from a magnetic rowing machine.
We also find its sturdiness, compact size, and comfort to be attractive, making it a good one for home use.
Overall, Schwinn Crewmaster Rowing Machine is a good buy especially for such price it comes with. It is one of the best rowing machines and a good option for the family.
What We Like:
- The frame is robust and sturdy
- Its pedals are large, non-slip, and straps to hold the feet in place
- Very quiet operation
- Buying assurance through the good warranty period
- It can fold and transport wheels make it even easier to store
- It is affordable
What We Do Not Like:
- Assembly can be difficult when you’re not a handyman
See Also:
- Best Heavy-Duty Exercise Bike
- Best Exercise Bikes with Moving Arms
- The best exercise bike for tall person
#7. Sunny Health & Fitness Water Rowing Machine SF-RW5713
Quick Specifications
- Price: $
- Type: Water Resistance Rowing Machine
- Max Weight Limit: 300 pounds
- Weight of Rower: 96.9 pounds
- Inseam length: 38 inches
- Slide rail length: 42 inches
- Dimension of Seat: 10”L x 12”W x 2”H
- No of Hydro Blades: 16
This is one of the best rowing machines with water as a resistance mechanism you should consider for home and apartment use. The water creates good resistance that smartly adjusts to rowing intensity.
The Sunny Health & Fitness Water Rowing Machine SF-RW5713 would be a good alternative/backup rowing machine to your expensive rower. It is strong but not recommended for frequent usage.
A smooth and correct amount of resistance is generated through its 16 hydro blades designed with high-density material. The frame is made with steel and that gives it a strong, sturdy, and robust appearance.
Also, Sunny Health & Fitness Water Rowing Machine SF-RW5713 comes with an R2 fitness meter; an LCD monitor that records fitness data like the distance, time, and calories burnt, and others.
What We Like
- Fast response to rowing intensity to adjust the resistance
- Large, non-slip with nylon straps pedal to keep the feet in place
- Foldable into a compact size and transport wheel for easy storage
- Strong with a high weight capacity
What We Do Not Like:
- It makes swooshing water sound
- Not a suitable rower for heavy/frequent usage.
#8. Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5
Quick Specifications
- Price: $$$$
- Type: Air Resistance Rowing Machine
- Max Weight Capacity: 500 pounds
- Inseam Length: 38 inches
- 5 years warranty
The best rowing machines mostly come at expensive prices and this product is not an exception as it is one of the most expensive rowing machines you will probably come across. However, its good features, strength, durability, ease of usage, and effectiveness for a full-body workout make it a good buy for the price.
Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 is very easy to maintain as the frame is nickel plated which removes every possibility of rusting, thereby, reducing maintenance need. It comes with PM5, a performance monitor LCD screen that accurately records your workout data.
It cannot be folded but can be dissembled into two units to ensure easy storage. Mobility around the home is also made easier through its transport wheels.
Though Concept2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 is a very expensive rowing machine, its qualities give you’re the best value for the money. It is suitable for both home and commercial usage as it’s strong enough to withstand heavy/frequent usage.
What We Like:
- 5 years warranty gives good buying assurance
- PM5 gives accurate workout data
- It is robust, durable, and offers effective resistance
- High weight limit up to 500 pounds
- Responsive resistance to rowing intensity
- Suitable for users of different height and weight
What We Do Not Like:
- It is very expensive
#9. FITNESS REALITY 1000 PLUS Bluetooth Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine
Quick Specifications
- Price: $
- Type: Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine
- Weight Limit: 250 pounds
- Weight of Rower: 63.6 pounds
- Inseam length: 39 inches
- Seat Height: 12 inches
- Seat Dimension: 13.5”L x 11”W
- Assemble Dimension: 88.5″L x 21.5″W x 21.5″H
- Folding Dimension: 39.5”L x 21.5”W x 53.5”H
The rowing machine is one of the most purchased rowers on Amazon with many positive comments from previous buyers. It is a good magnetic resistance rowing machine you can consider for homes and apartments.
With its Bluetooth connectivity, you can sync FITNESS REALITY 1000 PLUS Rowing Machine with My Cloud Fitness App and other third-party fitness apps. This can help you track and set your fitness goals.
It is a sturdy and durable piece of equipment provided your weight is not heavier than its max weight limit of 250 pounds. This is also recommended for tall users with heights up to 6ft-6in.
Just like other magnetic rowers, the FITNESS REALITY 1000 PLUS Rowing Machine works quietly without disturbing people around the house. It’s a lovely product and one of the best rowing machines.
What We Like:
- Very silent operation
- It is easy to assemble and use
- Wide resistance range suit both beginners and experts
- It is affordable
- Bluetooth connectivity that syncs with fitness apps
What We Do Not Like:
- Most users complain about its transport wheels.
#10. MaxKare Water Rowing Machine Water Rower
Quick Specifications
- Price: $$
- Type: Water Resistance Rowing Machine
- Weight Limit: 265 pounds
- Inseam length: 44 inches
- Assemble Dimension: 78”L x 17.3”W x 35.4”H
We find this fantastic water rowing machine as a good fit for home use and one of the best rowing machines you should consider. It comes at a fairly affordable price and offers effective rowing among other qualities.
MaxKare Water Rowing Machine Water Rower is strong and durable as its frame is made with alloy steel that guarantees strength, sturdiness, and durability.
The rower is not cheaply made and very affordable. It is definitely not a suitable device for commercial usage due to its wright capacity that may not be suitable for many users.
MaxKare Water Rowing Machine Water Rower manages the space in your apartment well and also folds to ensure easy storage. The LCD monitor also displays workout data to help you keep a tab on your fitness progress.
What We Like:
- It can be easily assembled even for a first-timer
- Very affordable
- The seat is large and foam padded for comfort
What We Do Not Like:
- It does not work silently
#11. CIRCUIT FITNESS Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine
Quick Specifications
- Price: $$
- Type: Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine
- Assemble Dimension: 71”L x 20. 5”W x 31. 5”H
- Dimension when Folded: 49”L x 20.5”W x 51”H
- Weight of the Product: 90 pounds
- Weight Limit: 300 pounds
Having made from heavy-duty steel and aluminum gives the frame of the rowing machine high strength, stability and keeps the user completely safe.
CIRCUIT FITNESS Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine is not just strong; it is very effective at giving you’re the full-body workout you desire. Its resistance can simply be adjusted through its resistance knob to suit the fitness of the user.
Apart from being very quiet when you are using it, it is very easy to assemble and will not even need the expertise of a handyman if you closely follow its instruction manual.
Furthermore, CIRCUIT FITNESS Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine is less expensive and we know it’s a good buy for the money. It is great for indoor use especially for people who don’t engage in rowing frequently.
What We Like:
- Its seat is padded thereby aiding the comfort of the user
- Also, it is very easy to assemble and use
- It folds into a compact size, almost half its size for easy storage
What We Do Not Like:
- It is not suitable for heavy/frequent usage.
#12. Merax Water Rowing Machine
Quick Specifications
- Price: $$
- Type: Water Resistance Rowing Machine
- Weight Limit: 330 pounds
- Handle length: 20-inches
- Assemble Dimension: 78”L x 20”W x 25”H
- The dimension of the Seat: 12.2” x 10”
This rowing machine is constructed to give an effective and comfortable rowing experience to the user. It is a water rowing machine and one of the best in that category.
Merax Water Rowing Machine adjusts its resistance to rowing intensity to match your fitness and energy level. For a water rower, it works silently but there will be splashing sounds of water when it’s in use.
The frame is designed to be robust, sturdy, and will not wobble when using it. To monitor your workout progress, it comes with an LCD screen that records data like time, distance covered and calories burnt.
If you desire a water rowing machine at home, considering Merax Water Rowing Machine can be a good idea and it’s one of the best rowing machines we encountered during our search.
What We Like
- Very easy to assemble and use
- Strong enough to carry heavyweight
- It is designed to ensure comfort and effectiveness
- The rower is affordable.
What We Do Not Like
- The water tank is not calibrated.
Why you need the Best Rowing Machine at your Home Gym
Full-Body Workout
The rowing machine is one of the few exercise machines that offer a full-body workout (Upper and Lower Body Workout).
Rowing has a good impact on the arms, shoulder, and upper back region thereby ensuring a good upper body workout to enhance great posture and also correct bad postures. It also has good impacts on the biceps and abs, thereby giving a stronger core.
Furthermore, even have more impact on the lower body as the legs are as much involved in rowing as the arms. It works on the quad, calves, thighs, and the buttocks muscle.
Versatile
The best rowing machines are needed in the home because they are versatile. With a rower, you can burn considerable fat/calories, tone the muscles and you also get a great cardio exercise machine in just one piece of equipment.
Furthermore, a rowing machine can be used for both aerobic exercise and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). The versatility in its usage makes it a very essential exercise machine you should think of getting into your home.
Offers Great Cardio
The importance of cardio exercise on the overall fitness of the body cannot be over-emphasized. Aerobic exercise is beneficial to the health, thereby; having one piece of this amazing equipment at the comfort of your home gives you everyday access to these benefits.
Low-Impact Exercise
Low-impact exercises are very beneficial to people with injury. Just like the best exercise bike for home and the best elliptical machine, a rowing machine makes you less prone to sustaining injuries.
Users’ Friendly
Rowing can be so easy that a beginner will find it seamless to use with little or no hassle. In fact, it is the most time referred to as the best workout machine for beginners as it is easy to use and gets you into shape. The techniques of rowing are simple to learn and the machine is not bulky thereby making it a good one for you even if you have small apartments.
Affordability
Selecting the best rowing machine for home use doesn’t have to be selecting the most expensive rowers. Though we recommend you go for the expensive ones as they have shown to be stronger and more durable. However, there is a good rower with your budget and all you need to do is find it. Therefore, it is easy to own a rower and that makes it more beneficial.
How to Correctly Use a Rowing Machine: Step-by-Step Guide
A rowing machine is very easy to learn and use, however, it is vital to learn how to correctly use the exercise machine. The wrong usage will not only make you prone to injuries, it will also reduce the impact and effectiveness of the exercise. Below are the step-by-step guides to correctly use a rowing machine:
- Depending on the type of resistance mechanism, correctly adjust the resistance knob (magnetic rower) or damper for air resistance. Set this to a minimum level according to your strength and fitness level.
- Sit comfortably on the seat and place your feet into the pedals. Tighten the straps on the pedal around your feet to ensure they stay perfectly in place.
- Hold the handgrip not too tightly, ensure your thumb is at the back while the remaining four fingers hang onto the handle
- Maintain an upright position with your chest out and shoulders raised. Push back with your legs, pull with your arms and slightly lean back with your arms at shoulders level.
- Then, push your arms forward and also return the legs forward. Then, repeat the process again for as long as you want.
- Think rowing process as legs, arms, arms, and legs movement respectively. Below is a video that explains the rowing process by YMCA:
Common Mistake to Avoid in Rowing
- Do not hunch your back; always ensure the back is straight
- Ensure your knees are not too far apart as that may reduce their effectiveness
- Raising your arms too high is a common mistake and should be avoided
- Avoid scooping motion
Conclusion
Low-impact cardio exercise machines are good to add to your gym and getting the best rowing machine for home use can be very beneficial. Not only will it help you burn calories, but it will also tone muscles and improve cardiovascular health, and makes you less prone to injury.
It is best to buy expensive rowers as they are more durable. However, people who may not use it often or someone buying a backup exercise machine to the main one may not need the most expensive one.
In this article, we reviewed 12 products, ranging from the most expensive, to medium price and the pocket-friendly ones. We are optimistic that they all will be a good buy with great value for the money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I row every day?
You may not row every day especially for beginners as it is not good to push yourself too hard. A maximum of 3-4 times a week is considered to be safe. There are professionals whose body is fit enough to handle everyday rowing. It’s vital to know your body limit and progressively work your way upward.
Can you lose belly fat on a rowing machine?
With a rowing machine, you will definitely burn fat and that will most definitely include belly fat.
What is the best type of resistance for a rowing machine?
The best rowing machine is subjective to your need per time. Professional rowers may need something that simulates real-life boat rowing for training purposes and that can only be gotten from air and water resistance rowing machines.
Magnetic rowing machine may not be suitable for real-life simulation but it’s sure a good one to get for fitness purpose. It’s even quieter in operation, making it a good choice for the home.
What resistance should you row at?
Air and water rowing machines will automatically adjust the resistance to your rowing intensity. For beginners, it’s vital to start from the lowest level and then gradually increase. The experts can start from a high level because their body most probably adjusts to handle heavy rowing.
What is a good stroke rate on a rowing machine?
Stroke rate which is the number of strokes in a minute is a vital parameter. It is believed that 23-30 are considered to be normal. However, expert rowers do go above this and that is good so far your body can handle it.