Rowing machines have become incredibly popular because they offer a fantastic full-body workout right from your home. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, there's a rowing machine that fits your needs. The market for Best Rowing Machines keeps growing, with new models adding smart technology and interactive features to make workouts more engaging.
In this guide, we'll break down the top five rowing machines available today, counting down to our top pick. We'll explore what makes each one stand out, helping you decide which model is best for your space, budget, and fitness goals. If you're looking to check current prices for any of the products mentioned, you'll find helpful links in the video description.
Our Top 5 Rowing Machine Picks
Choosing the right rowing machine means thinking about things like resistance type, smart features, and how much space it takes up. We've considered all these factors to bring you a comprehensive list.
5. SereneLife SLRWMC60 – Smart Fitness on a Budget
The SereneLife SLRWMC60 secures our fifth spot as an excellent choice for anyone on a budget. Don't let the affordable price fool you; this machine offers impressive features, especially its smart connectivity.
Key Features:
- Smart Connectivity: Connects with the Fit Show app, letting you track and analyze workout data right from your device.
- Resistance Levels: It uses both magnetic and air resistance, offering 16 adjustable levels to suit different fitness levels and workout intensities.
- Digital Display: A clear LCD shows your time, distance, strides, and calories burned.
- Bluetooth: Seamlessly pairs with your devices up to 16.4 feet away.
- Strong Build: Made with steel metal alloy and engineered hips, it supports users up to 250 pounds.
- Rowing Space: Offers a good 33.27-inch rowing distance.
- Convenient Design: This machine folds up, making it ideal for home use where space might be limited. The operation is quiet, and the padded seat provides comfort during workouts.
- Energy Efficient: Features an auto-power-off function and a reinforced handlebar pull cable for durability.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly price point
- Smart app connectivity for data tracking
- Folding design saves space
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Lower weight capacity compared to other models
- Basic LCD display without advanced graphics
This machine is perfect for beginners or those with limited space and a tighter budget who still want smart features. It delivers a solid workout without breaking the bank. You can see SereneLife SLRWMC60 prices here.
4. Echelon Row S – Versatile & Connected Workouts
Coming in at number four, the Echelon Row S stands out for its amazing workout versatility and interactive features.
Key Features:
- Resistance: Offers 32 levels of magnetic resistance. This system runs quietly, and you can adjust resistance directly from the handlebar using Bluetooth controls.
- Immersive Display: Features a large 22-inch HD swiveling touchscreen, allowing you to easily view classes.
- Sturdy Frame: Built with a durable aluminum and steel frame, it supports users up to 300 pounds.
- Space-Saving Design: This machine folds horizontally, significantly reducing its footprint from 84x21x47 inches to 41x21x60 inches when stored.
- Audio & App: Includes built-in Bluetooth speakers and integrates with the Echelon Fit app.
- Workout Content: Access live and on-demand classes, including rowing workouts, strength training, and scenic rows.
- Comfort & Adjustability: A 6-foot platform with adjustable foot positions caters to different user heights. The padded seat keeps you comfortable during longer sessions.
- Easy Movement: Transport wheels make it simple to move the machine around.
- Warranty: Comes with a standard 1-year warranty, which you can extend to 5 years with an Echelon Premier membership.
The Echelon Row S is an excellent choice for users who want a connected fitness experience with a wide variety of interactive classes. It's especially good if you need to save space without sacrificing features. You can check Echelon Row S prices here.
3. Hydrow Wave Rower – Premium Experience in a Smaller Footprint
The Hydrow Wave Rower takes our third spot. It offers premium rowing performance in a more compact design than its predecessor, making it suitable for more homes.
Key Features:
- Compact Design: Measures 80x19x43 inches, making it a smaller option for high-end rowing.
- Display: Features a vibrant 16-inch HD touchscreen.
- Resistance: Employs an electromagnetic resistance system, delivering a quiet, realistic on-water feel. You can adjust the resistance from 50 to 300 drag factor, simulating different boat configurations.
- Premium Build: Crafted with an aluminum and steel frame, it comes in five color options and includes front-facing speakers for immersive audio. It supports users up to 375 pounds with a maximum 36-inch inseam.
- Connectivity: Connects via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, integrating with heart rate monitors and popular fitness apps like Strava.
- Workout Content: Access to over 4,300 workouts through its subscription-based platform. This includes live sessions and on-demand classes led by Olympic athletes, providing an engaging and motivating experience.
- Storage: While not foldable, it can be stored vertically with an optional wall anchor, saving floor space.
- Quiet Operation: Operates quietly at around 60 dB, allowing you to work out without disturbing others in your home.
The Hydrow Wave is ideal for those seeking a premium, immersive rowing experience with the feel of being on water, all within a more space-friendly design. It's a great fit if you value high-quality content and quiet operation. To learn more, you can see Hydrow Wave Rower prices here.
2. Concept2 RowErg – The Gold Standard for Indoor Rowing
At number two, we have the Concept2 RowErg, widely recognized as the standard for indoor rowing training. Olympic athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide rely on this machine for its unparalleled durability and performance.
Key Features:
- Resistance: An air-resistance rower featuring a spiral damper that offers 10 resistance levels.
- Durability and Support: Built with a robust aluminum and steel construction, it supports users up to 500 pounds. It boasts a nickel-plated steel chain drive system for long-lasting use.
- PM5 Performance Monitor: The PM5 monitor tracks essential metrics like distance, speed, stroke rate, calories, and watts. It also offers Bluetooth connectivity for fitness apps and heart rate monitors.
- Dimensions and Storage: Measures 95 inches long by 24 inches wide and weighs 57 pounds. You can easily separate it into two pieces for storage without needing any tools.
- Ergonomic Design: Features a standard seat height of 14 inches (a tall leg version is available at 20 inches), adjustable footrests, and an ergonomic handle with a 10-degree bend for a smooth, comfortable rowing experience.
- Maintenance: Operates quietly and requires minimal maintenance.
- Warranty: Backed by a 5-year frame warranty and a 2-year parts warranty, ensuring peace of mind.
The Concept2 RowErg is the ultimate machine for anyone serious about rowing, from competitive athletes to dedicated fitness enthusiasts. Its no-frills, highly effective design makes it a dependable choice. You can check Concept2 RowErg prices here.
1. NordicTrack Smart Rower RW900 – Our Top Pick for Home Fitness
Taking the top spot as the Best Rowing Machines available is the NordicTrack Smart Rower RW900. This machine truly stands out for its exceptionally quiet magnetic resistance system and incredibly smooth rowing motion.
Key Features:
- Resistance System: Features an exceptionally quiet magnetic resistance system with 26 digital resistance levels. These levels automatically adjust during trainer-led sessions, providing a truly versatile workout.
- Premium Display: Boasts a premium 22-inch HD touchscreen display that pivots 360 degrees. This allows you to follow workouts both on and off the machine, which is great for cross-training.
- Solid Build Quality: Constructed with a durable steel frame, a comfortable padded seat, and oversized adjustable foot pedals that fit most users.
- Size and Storage: Measures 82x22x54 inches. It can be stored vertically to save space, though at 163 pounds, it does require some effort to move despite having transport wheels.
- iFit Integration: Fully integrated with iFit technology, giving you access to thousands of workouts. This includes stunning scenic rowing sessions filmed on waterways worldwide.
- Immersive Training: The resistance automatically syncs with instructor commands during classes, creating a truly immersive and hands-free training experience.
Considerations:
- Weight Capacity: It has a 250-pound weight capacity, which might be a limitation for some users.
- Power Requirement: Requires an electrical outlet.
- Warranty Restriction: Storing the rower in a garage voids the warranty.
- Price: While it has a premium price, the combination of its build quality, advanced technology, extensive features, and workout variety makes it a comprehensive home rowing solution.
The NordicTrack Smart Rower RW900 is the ideal choice for anyone seeking a top-tier home rowing solution with advanced smart technology and a wide variety of interactive workout content. It delivers an unparalleled fitness experience. You can see NordicTrack RW900 prices here.
Choosing the Right Rowing Machine for Your Needs
Deciding on the perfect rowing machine involves considering several factors unique to your situation. Here’s a quick guide to help you find the best fit:
- Budget: Are you looking for a budget-friendly option like the SereneLife SLRWMC60, or are you prepared to invest in a premium machine like the NordicTrack RW900 or Hydrow Wave?
- Space: How much space do you have? Consider folding designs (SereneLife, Echelon Row S) or vertical storage options (NordicTrack, Hydrow Wave, Concept2).
- Resistance Type: Do you prefer the quiet and smooth magnetic resistance (NordicTrack, Echelon, SereneLife), the realistic feel of electromagnetic resistance (Hydrow), or the traditional air resistance favored by athletes (Concept2)?
- Connectivity and Content: Do you want live classes and interactive workouts (NordicTrack, Echelon, Hydrow), or is a basic performance monitor sufficient (Concept2)?
- Weight Capacity and Durability: Check the maximum user weight supported by the machine to ensure it meets your needs. Look for sturdy construction if you plan on frequent or intense workouts.
- Noise Level: If you live in an apartment or need to work out without disturbing others, look for quieter magnetic or electromagnetic systems.
- Maintenance: Some machines, like the Concept2, are known for requiring minimal maintenance.
| Model Name | Resistance Type | Display Type | Connectivity | Max User Weight (lbs) | Storage | Noteworthy Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SereneLife SLRWMC60 | Magnetic/Air | Digital LCD | Bluetooth | 250 | Folding | Budget-friendly with smart app |
| Echelon Row S | Magnetic | 22" HD Swiveling Touch | Bluetooth | 300 | Folds horizontally | 32 resistance levels, extensive class library |
| Hydrow Wave Rower | Electromagnetic | 16" HD Touch | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | 375 | Vertical (optional anchor) | Realistic on-water feel, Olympic athlete-led classes |
| Concept2 RowErg | Air | PM5 Performance Monitor | Bluetooth | 500 | Separates into 2 pieces | Industry standard, highly durable, low maintenance |
| NordicTrack Smart Rower RW900 | Magnetic | 22" HD Pivoting Touch | iFit (integrated) | 250 | Vertical | Auto-adjusting resistance, immersive iFit content |
Where to Buy and Price Checks
You can find current prices and purchase any of these Best Rowing Machines by using the links provided in the video description. These links take you directly to the product pages, often showing the latest deals or bundles available. Always check the warranty and customer service support when making a purchase, as these can vary by retailer.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right rowing machine can significantly impact your fitness journey. Each machine we've reviewed offers a quality workout experience, but they vary in features, technology, and price. Think about your fitness goals, the space you have available, and your budget before making a decision. Remember to use the links provided to find the best deals and the most up-to-date pricing. Happy rowing!