The best rowing machines provide a low-impact, full-body cardio workout, challenging minor and major muscle groups alike. In fact, rowing can engage more than 80% of the muscles in your body and, depending on your body weight and the intensity of a session, burn more than 400 calories in a half hour. We thoroughly researched rowing machines from leading brands and spoke to a number of fitness industry professionals as we assembled this guide, and based on our findings, the Concept2 RowErg emerged as the clear winner. It’s a durable machine trusted by collegiate athletes, suitable for beginners and easy to set up and use.
Break a sweat with one of the best rowing machines.
A Well-Rounded Option For Beginners And Pros Alike
Concept2
Concept2 RowErg
Dimensions: 24 x 96 x 20 inches | Weight: 64 pounds | Resistance: Air | Resistance levels: N/A (Based on stroke rate) | Display: PM5 LCD
Best for:
Durable build that’s ready for heavy use
High max weight limit
Reasonable price point for a solid piece of equipment
Skip if:
You want guided workouts or on-screen entertainment
You don’t want to perform occasional maintenance
The Concept2 RowErg is a popular rower that checks all the boxes for anyone in need of a comfortable, durable, reliable machine that’s ready to withstand regular use. As the first machine to make an appearance in the CrossFit games back in 2015, it’s competition-ready and designed to take your training to the next level. While this is the go-to erg for many professional rowing teams, it can adapt to all skill levels; the expert we spoke with at USRowing had nothing but great things to say about it, recommending it for athletes at all stages in their rowing journey.
Designed with a heavy-duty steel and aluminum frame, the RowErg is a solid pick that can withstand heavy use. The flywheel and damper system deliver smooth resistance that’s consistent, though unlike rowers with selectable resistance levels, the RowErg’s perceived resistance is a result of how hard you row—it doesn’t have adjustable “levels” to choose from. Because it can support up to 500 pounds and is available in a 14- or 20-inch seat height, it’s a great option for big and tall users, too. The frame separates into two pieces without tools, so you can store it away and save space, and the nickel-plated chain needs to be lubricated every now and then. Otherwise, maintenance is minimal.
While it’s a dependable and well-made rower with a proven track record, the RowErg isn’t packed with all that many features. The basic LCD display tracks split times, meters rowed and intervals, but it doesn’t offer guided workouts or other entertainment options. Technically, it comes with a device holder, so you can clip your smartphone in and sync it with training apps via Bluetooth to log progress and follow workouts, but that’s as far as it goes to make the experience more immersive.
If you’re after guided workouts, games or the ability to stream media from a large display, models like the Ergatta Rower and Hydrow Pro will better meet your needs, though you’ll pay at least twice as much for that technology. But if you want a gym-quality rower for less than $1,000 that has a proven track record, this one is hard to beat.
Dimensions: 94 x 24 inches | Weight: 156.5 pounds | Resistance: Magnetic | Resistance levels: N/A (Based on stroke rate) | Display: 23.8-inch HD swivel touchscreen
Best for:
Platform that accommodates tall users
An immersive 24-inch HD screen
Quiet operation
Skip if:
You want a more affordable rower that doesn’t need a subscription
If you’re after a premium rowing experience from a reputable brand, look no further than the Peloton Row. In classic Peloton fashion, it features a swiveling 24-inch HD touchscreen display (the largest in this guide), making it perfect for traditional rowing workouts or off-rower workouts. The rower hits the industry-standard 300-pound weight capacity and accommodates users up to 6 feet, 5 inches tall. And the adjustable footplates fit shoe sizes up to men’s 13.5, so it’s a comfortable, customizable experience. And again, magnetic resistance maintains a consistent, quiet environment, though the Row creates resistance automatically—it increases, or gets harder, the faster you pull.
Given Peloton’s premium products (which come at premium prices), it may not come as a surprise to learn the Row is the most expensive model in this guide, at $3,300. When you add in the $44 monthly membership that gives you access to rowing classes along with Peloton’s full library of workouts (including strength training, yoga, Pilates and more), it’s even more expensive. Still, you get two free months of membership with your purchase, and if you have HSA or FSA funds, you can put those toward the rower as well. That said, if you’re looking for a similar experience that uses the same quiet magnetic resistance system and comes with a large screen but costs less, consider the Hydrow Pro.
Best Budget Rowing Machine
A Basic Rower That Delivers A Stress-Free Workout
Amazon
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
Dimensions: 89 x 18.9 x 23.6 inches | Weight: 60.9 pounds | Resistance: Magnetic | Resistance levels: 8 | Display: LCD monitor
Best for:
Lightweight and easy to move
Quiet operation
Simple user experience
Skip if:
You want a weight limit above 250 pounds
If you’re looking for an affordable rowing machine that’s perfect for casual use, the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine is a solid pick. At less than $300 (and often dropping below $200 when it’s on sale), this is a budget-friendly rower that helps you stay active. Granted, it skips a few features, but still delivers a solid workout experience.
Weighing just under 61 pounds, it’s the lightest rower in this guide, and the steel rail folds up and out of the way for easy storage. The basic tension control dial offers eight levels of resistance, which is less than what you’ll find on higher-end models, but expected at this price, and the tiny digital monitor keeps things simple with just three buttons. Because it uses magnets, resistance is consistent from the beginning to the end of each stroke, making it perfect for steady-state cardio. It’s incredibly quiet, too. It may not feel as natural as air or water resistance, but that’s less of a priority at this price.
Unfortunately, taller and heavier users will have to look elsewhere for a more accommodating rower—the 46.5-inch slide rail can feel a bit short, and with a 250-pound weight capacity, it doesn’t meet the industry standard of 300 to 350 pounds. If you need additional room or support, models like an Concept2 RowErg will better meet your needs. But if simplicity and price are your biggest concerns,this rower is a great option.
Best Magnetic Rowing Machine
A High-End Experience That's Sleek And Fully Featured
Hydrow
Hydrow Pro Rower
Dimensions: 86 x 25 x 47 inches | Weight: 145 pounds | Resistance: Magnetic | Resistance levels: N/A(dynamic, based on stroke rate) | Display: 22-inch swivel touchscreen
Best for:
A large touchscreen display
A wealth of guided workouts
Large resistance range
Skip if:
You want a lightweight rower that’s easier to move and store
If you’re looking for a rowing machine that creates a realistic on-water experience, the Hydrow Pro Rower should be on your list. It uses a patented electromagnetic resistance system that you can adjust via its 22-inch touchscreen display. Hydrow calls this the “drag setting,” and it ranges from 50 to 300. Like the Concept2 RowErg, the actual resistance you feel is mostly based on your stroke rate, not the drag setting. In fact, Hydrow doesn’t really recommend changing it from the default setting of 104—but the option is there if you want to fine-tune the experience.
What really sets the Pro Rower apart is its interactive programming. Unlike other platforms that feature instructors rowing on machines, Hydrow’s classes are filmed on open water for a more immersive experience. You can also stay active with some off-rower content, like yoga and strength training, if you swivel the display around, but rowing definitely remains the focus here. To access the classes, you’ll need to purchase a membership that runs you $44 per month, which is the same as Peloton’s subscriptions service and slightly more expensive than NordicTrack’s $39 per month iFit plan.
Weighing 145 pounds, this is one the heavier rowers in this guide, but a set of front wheels make it a bit easier to move. With that said, it doesn’t fold or disassemble, so you’ll need a dedicated space to house it. If storage is a concern, Hydrow sells an $80 upright kit to stow it vertically. Or consider the Hydrow Wave Rower that’s 30% smaller if you’re sold on the Hydrow Pro’s features but don’t have the room for it.
Best Rowing Machine For Beginners
An Ergonomic Design And Easy-To-Use Features
NordicTrack
NordicTrack RW600
Dimensions: 86.5 x 22 x 42.8 inches | Weight: 117 pounds | Resistance: Magnetic | Resistance levels: 26 | Display: 7-inch HD touchscreen
Best for:
Multiple levels of resistance
Long rail suitable for tall users
10-year frame warranty
Skip if:
You want a screen larger than 7 inches
The NordicTrack RW600 proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a high-quality rowing machine. As the more affordable sibling to the RW700 and RW900, it’s a great entry-level machine at just under $1,000, and with 26 levels of magnetic resistance, it offers plenty of room to progress. The smooth drag mechanism makes it feel like a high-end rower, and the adjustable footplates are great for households in which multiple people are going to share the machine. The long slide rail also allows for a full range of motion, making it a better option for taller folks.
NordicTrack’s iFit subscription costs $39 per month, which is on par with Peloton in terms of quality and the library of classes to choose from. You’ll have access to rowing, strength, treadmill and elliptical classes, though the smaller 7-inch touchscreen isn’t all that compelling. (For reference, it’s smaller than an iPad Mini.) If you’re after a rower with a bigger screen, you’ll have to level up to the Ergatta Rower or Peloton Row instead, but keep in mind that you’ll spend a lot more for the upgrade.
One of NordicTrack’s biggest strengths is its durability, and it shows in the rower’s 10-year frame warranty—the same one offered on its higher-end rowers. With that said, the 250-pound weight capacity is below the industry standard, and it falls behind the 300-pound weight limit of the RW900. If that’s not a dealbreaker, this is a great beginner-friendly rower that offers whisper-quiet magnetic resistance and meets basic needs.
Best Water Rowing Machine
Can A Rower Also Be Art?
Ergatta
Ergatta Rower
Dimensions: 86 x 23 x 40 inches | Weight: 105 pounds | Resistance: Water | Resistance levels: N/A (Based on stroke rate) | Display: 17.3-inch HD touchscreen
Best for:
500-pound weight limit
Stylish looks
American-made quality
Skip if:
A water resistance rower is too involved
If you’re looking for a rower that doubles as a work of art, the Ergatta Rower is hands-down the best-looking option in this guide. Made in the USA from cherry wood, it looks more like a piece of furniture than gym equipment, and the 17.3-inch HD touchscreen could serve as a TV replacement if you’re ready to cut ties with cable and streaming.
Joking aside, this machine uses water resistance, which means you’ll need to fill the tank yourself, but step-by-step instructions break it down. You’ll also need to treat the water, though doing so only requires adding a provided purification tablet every six months. Technically speaking, there’s no adjustable resistance because it doesn’t have a flywheel or electronics, but you can add or remove water to tweak the resistance—the sloshing of water will create subtle differences in resistance from stroke to stroke. If you’re rowing slowly, it’s a peaceful ride; go faster, and it feels a lot like rowing against the current. Just keep in mind that it isn’t as versatile as air or magnetic resistance.
For bigger and taller users, the 500-pound weight capacity and 80-inch height limit make this one of the more accommodating rowers on the market. It’s spacious and sturdy, but the five-year warranty is a little lackluster at this price. A $39 monthly subscription fee gives you access to gamified programming, including races, scenic rows and interval challenges, for fun and interactive workouts.
How We Chose The Best Rowing Machines
“Rowing is accessible for everyone,” says fitness instructor Dejon Noel-Williams. “Beginners can start with just a few minutes a day, while more experienced athletes can try high-intensity intervals or longer steady-state sessions.” To find the best rowing machines for beginners and experienced athletes alike, we looked for models that provide a smooth, effective workout while balancing performance, comfort and long-term durability. Here’s what we considered:
Resistance system: A rowing machine’s mechanisms for creating resistance determine how it feels when you’re using the rower, and this resistance becomes even more important if you’re using a rower consistently and need an ever more challenging workout. We evaluated air, magnetic, water and hydraulic rowers, and prioritized models that offer both consistent and adaptable resistance based on potentially developing needs.
Rower size, weight and storage: Rowing machines tend to be big and bulky, but we still looked for a balance between full-size models and those with space-saving features like foldable frames and the option for upright storage; those details can make some rowers perfect for complete home gyms and others suitable for smaller spaces.
User experience: From HD displays to instructor-led classes, we considered how each rower’s features might impact your desire to actually use it. Models with easy-to-understand displays, interactive workouts and Bluetooth connectivity scored additional points, especially as these can help you use rowers more safely and effectively. And the easier it is to use a rower with safe and proper form, the better experience you’ll have. Noel-Williams says: “When using a rowing machine, form is key. Keep your core engaged, drive through your legs first and avoid overextending your lower back [to] prevent injury.”
Comfort and durability: At the end of the day, a reliable rowing machine should feel sturdy and comfortable through every workout, day after day. We looked at aspects like seat cushioning, rail smoothness, foot strap adjustability and overall quality to find machines that are comfortable from day one and durable enough for long-term use.
How To Shop For A Rowing Machine
If you’ve decided you’re ready to invest in a rowing machine, there are a handful of factors to keep in mind. From how smooth it feels with every stroke to the different ways in which you can interact with the machine—and even how easy it is to store away when it’s not in use—here’s how to break it all down, with insights from the experts.
Resistance Type
Rowing machines feature different forms of resistance (including air, magnetic, water and hydraulic) and each one creates its own unique experience. Regardless of how you control it, resistance matters.
Air resistance: Air resistance rowing machines generate resistance using a flywheel that spins as you pull the handle. The faster and harder you row, the more air the flywheel moves and the more resistance you generate. It’s all based on the intensity of your stroke. Some rowers, like the Concept2 RowErg, include a damper that adjusts how much air flows into the flywheel, and this manipulates the “feel” of the stroke. It’s lighter and faster at lower settings, and heavier and slower at higher ones. “Air resistance rowers, like theConcept2, have long been the go-to standard in competitive rowing,” explains Peter Choi of USRowing. “They’re responsive, consistent and widely used by athletes across all levels, from beginners to Olympians." The sound of the flywheel is louder than a magnetic rower, but it sounds like a house fan.
Magnetic resistance: Magnetic rowers offer a quieter, more consistent experience. Unlike air resistance rowers that make noise and create variance in each stroke, “magnetic resistance rowers, such as those fromHydrow or Peloton, are impressively quiet and have a very smooth pull,” says Choi. They deliver a more consistent degree of resistance throughout each stroke, which is good for steady-state cardio. And while the power application can feel a bit delayed, this isn’t a big drawback unless you’re really into HIIT routines and sprint starts.
Water resistance: Water resistance rowers create a different kind of experience altogether. According to Choi, “The resistance is self-regulated by the user’s effort, though the water’s natural flow can introduce subtle variability from stroke to stroke.” Ultimately, you’ll opt for this form of rowing resistance if you like the sensory feel and general aesthetic of water rowing, or if you actually row on water and want a setup that most closely mimics the real thing. Otherwise, an air or magnetic rower will meet your needs, and you won’t have to fill, clean or otherwise fiddle with a water tank.
Hydraulic resistance: Hydraulic rowers use pistons filled with fluid or air to create resistance. According to Choi, they’re "compact and often very affordable, which makes them appealing for small spaces or basic conditioning." While you won’t find hydraulic rowers in team or high-performance settings because the resistance doesn’t resemble water rowing, they’re a solid choice if you’re looking for a straightforward, low-impact workout.
Ultimately, the type of resistance isn’t the only variable to consider, but it is the most important one because it directly impacts the overall experience. “Whether someone is a beginner looking to build cardio or a competitive athlete training for their next regatta, there’s likely a machine that fits their specific needs and environment,” says Choi.
Storage
Rowing machines are big investments, both literally and figuratively. They take up a lot of space, which is why it’s important to consider how and where you’ll store your rower.
“If space is tight, I’d recommend looking for a rowing machine that can either fold, separate into components or stand upright,” says Choi. “Concept2 (C2) and Hydrow’s products are great examples. C2 can separate into two pieces and both C2 and Hydrow can be stored vertically, which helps minimize the floor space it takes up when not in use.”
While a rowing machine that folds in half or disassembles might be cause for concern because it introduces a point of weakness, Choi points out that these machines are just as sturdy and reliable as their traditional counterparts. “Just because a machine can fold or be stored upright doesn’t mean it’s less durable," he explains. "These features are built with high performance and long-term use in mind, not as a compromise.”
Features
From basic LCD displays to Bluetooth speakers and even HD touchscreens with interactive workouts, modern rowing machines come with a range of features to enhance your workouts. If you want guided workouts or virtual training, models like the Ergatta, Hydrow and Peloton offer immersive, app-connected experiences, though you’ll pay more upfront for the rower itself and over time if you purchase a subscription service.
For those who want to track their progress, Choi explains that, “At a minimum, you’ll want a rowing machine with a screen that tracks basic metrics: meters rowed, split time, watts, stroke rate, etc." Adding to this, Nico Gonzalez of Balanced Body says: “I recommend a rower that provides metrics so you can track your ‘rows per minute’ RPMs. Then you can measure if you are being consistent with your strokes.” Fortunately, industry standards have reached a point that ensures most rowing machines come with at least a basic LCD screen to record such metrics.
And if you prefer simplicity and don’t need immersive screens, speakers or fancy add-ons, a no-frills rower like the Sunny Health And Fitness Magnetic Rower is enough to work up a sweat.
Comfort And Ergonomics
A rower that’s thoughtfully designed should offer a smooth and natural pull, whether you’re using it for 10 high-intensity minutes or an hour. Look for a comfy, well-padded seat, a grippy handle and adjustable foot straps to help keep your body positioned and secure.
“Comfort matters a lot, especially for anyone planning to row consistently over time,” says Choi. “Most standard rowing machines are designed with ergonomics in mind, but smaller adjustments can make a big difference. Seat pads, for example, can improve comfort for longer sessions, and handle grips vary in shape and texture.”
Foot placement is usually an afterthought, but it’s also an important factor to consider. While adjustable footplates are standard on most machines to accommodate different shoe sizes and leg lengths, budget-friendly models tend to offer less adjustability. “Ideally, users should be able to strap in securely while still having free movement through the ankle and hip during the stroke,” explains Choi.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The health and wellness team at Forbes Vetted consists of editors and staff writers with dozens of years of combined experience testing and reviewing home equipment liketreadmills andrebounder trampolines and fitness apparel from trail running shoes to workout shirts.
This guide was written by Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta, who has over six years of experience evaluating outdoor, fitness and wellness equipment. Vigliotta also has a background in kinesiology. Staff writer Steven John contributed to an update of this article. He has been testing and reviewing fitness gear and apparel for more than a decade, and has spent scores of hours on rowing machines during Orange Theory classes.
This guide was reviewed by Forbes Vetted editorial director,Brinda Ayer. She has over a decade of experience in lifestyle journalism and is a longtime endurance athlete.
Beyond our own experiences as fitness enthusiasts and product testers, we spoke with experts to learn more about rowing machines and what you should consider when the time comes to buy one. They include: Peter Choi, director of sports growth and chief of staff at USRowing; Nico Gonzalez, an educator and global movement trainer with Balanced Body; and Dejon Noel-Williams, a former professional soccer player and current fitness instructor.
We regularly update articles to ensure all of the products we feature are still in stock and to ensure we’re providing you with the most relevant information available. This story was last updated in March 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Based on our findings and insights provided by Peter Choi, director of sports growth and chief of staff at USRowing, the Concept2 RowErg is the best rowing machine for home use. Trusted by Olympic athletes, CrossFit gyms and everyday rowers, it’s durable, smooth and designed to fold in half if you’re looking to save space. Not only that, but it costs less than $1,000, making it far more affordable than tech-laden models from Hydrow, Peloton and Ergatta. It’s still an investment, but one that pays off if you’re looking for a combination of performance and durability.
Yes, you can lose weight by rowing 30 minutes a day, though it’s important to pair exercise with a balanced diet. Rowing offers a full-body workout that elevates your heart rate and helps build lean muscle, which can help speed up your metabolism. Like any exercise regimen, consistency is key, so you’ll have to stick with a rowing routine if you want to see results.
How much you should spend on a rowing machine depends on the features you want and how often you intend to use it. Budget-friendly options like the Sunny Health & Fitness Rower cost under $200 but may lack displays, classes and long-term durability. On the other end of the spectrum, high-end models like the Peloton Row offer built-in screens, speakers and virtual classes, though they can cost over $3,000. Consider your budget, workout frequency and must-have features to find the right model for your needs.
We reviewed our recommendations and updated pricing throughout this story to ensure availability and accuracy. We also spoke with additional experts who shared more insights to help you choose a rowing machine that meets your needs.
