Build total-body strength and torch calories with our expert picks for home rowing machines at every price point.

Rowing machines deliver one of the most efficient full-body workouts available, engaging up to 86% of your muscles while remaining easy on your joints. Whether you are training for competitive rowing, seeking an effective cardio alternative, or building a complete home gym, the right rower can transform your fitness routine.

This guide covers the top rowing machines across three price tiers, breaks down the key specifications you need to understand, and helps you find the perfect match for your goals and budget.

---

Quick Comparison Table

---

Premium Tier ($900-$2,000+)

Concept2 RowErg Model D

The Gold Standard

Price: $990-$1,100

The Concept2 RowErg has dominated the rowing world for over 40 years. Found in nearly every CrossFit box, competitive boathouse, and commercial gym worldwide, this air rower sets the benchmark for performance and durability.

Key Specifications:

• Resistance: Air (flywheel with 10 damper settings)
• Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
• Inseam Accommodation: Up to 38″ (extra-long monorail available)
• Seat Height: 14″ standard or 20″ with tall legs
• Dimensions: 96″ L x 24″ W (assembled)
• Stored: 25″ x 33″ x 54″ (separates into two pieces)
• Weight: 57 lbs
• Monitor: PM5 with Bluetooth, ANT+, backlit LCD
• Warranty: 2-year limited (5-year frame when purchased direct)

Pros:

• Industry-standard performance monitor with reliable, comparable data
• Exceptional build quality that lasts decades
• Connects to virtually every fitness app (ErgData, Strava, etc.)
• Active global community with online rankings and challenges
• No subscription required
• Separates easily for storage without tools
• Outstanding resale value

Cons:

• Large footprint when assembled
• Air resistance generates moderate noise
• Basic LCD monitor (no touchscreen or streaming)
• The seat can feel firm during longer sessions

Best For: Competitive rowers, CrossFit athletes, and anyone wanting gym-quality equipment built to last a lifetime. The Concept2 is the machine against which all others are measured.

---

WaterRower Natural Ash with S4 Monitor

The Aesthetic Choice

Price: $1,100-$1,300

The WaterRower brings the feel and sound of actual on-water rowing into your home. Handcrafted from sustainably harvested Appalachian ash wood and finished with Danish oil, this machine doubles as furniture while delivering a smooth, authentic rowing stroke.

Key Specifications:

• Resistance: Water (self-regulating based on effort)
• Weight Capacity: 700-1,000 lbs
• Inseam Accommodation: Up to 38″
• Seat Height: Low profile
• Dimensions: 84″ L x 21″ W x 22″ H
• Weight: 117 lbs (with water)
• Monitor: S4 LCD (ComModule sold separately for Bluetooth)
• Warranty: 1 year (upgradeable to 5-year frame)

Pros:

• Stunning wooden design blends into living spaces
• Quieter than air rowers with soothing water sounds
• Water resistance provides a consistent stroke feel
• Exceptionally high weight capacity
• Stores vertically to save floor space
• Minimal maintenance (replace purification tablet every 6 months)

Cons:

• S4 monitor is basic (requires $80+ ComModule for Bluetooth)
• Cannot easily adjust resistance levels
• Does not fold
• Filling the water tank can be messy
• Premium price for the aesthetic

Best For: Home gym owners who want beautiful equipment that does not look like gym equipment, anyone seeking a quiet machine, and rowers who prefer the authentic water-resistance feel.

---

Hydrow Wave Rower

The Connected Experience

Price: $1,795-$1,995 (plus $44/month membership)

The Hydrow Wave delivers an immersive, Peloton-style rowing experience with on-water workouts filmed in scenic locations worldwide. Its compact design and electromagnetic resistance make it ideal for apartments or shared spaces.

Key Specifications:

• Resistance: Electromagnetic (auto-adjusting)
• Weight Capacity: 375 lbs
• Inseam Accommodation: Up to 36″
• Dimensions: 80″ L x 19″ W (30% smaller than Hydrow Origin)
• Weight: 102 lbs
• Monitor: 16″ HD fixed touchscreen with front-facing speakers
• Colors: Pirate Black, River, Forest, Sunrise, Sunset
• Warranty: 5-year frame, 1-year components

Pros:

• 5,000+ on-demand workouts, including rowing, strength, yoga, and Pilates
• The HydroMetrics system tracks precision, power, and endurance
• Near-silent electromagnetic resistance
• Compact footprint, stores vertically
• Beautiful design available in five colors
• Bluetooth connectivity for heart rate monitors and headphones

Cons:

• Requires $44/month membership for full functionality
• Fixed screen does not rotate (Pro model does)
• Lower weight capacity than competitors
• Electromagnetic resistance may feel different than air/water

Best For: Those who thrive on instructor-led workouts, apartment dwellers who need quiet operation, and anyone who wants a beautiful, compact machine with streaming content.

---

NordicTrack RW900 Rower

The All-in-One Entertainment Hub

Price: $1,599-$1,999 (plus $39/month iFIT membership)

The NordicTrack RW900 combines ultra-quiet magnetic resistance with the largest touchscreen in the category. With 26 resistance levels and iFIT integration, it offers automatic trainer-controlled workouts that adjust to your fitness level.

Key Specifications:

• Resistance: Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR) with 26 levels
• Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
• Dimensions: 86.5″ L x 22″ W x 50.4″ H
• Stored: 42″ L x 41″ H (stands vertically)
• Monitor: 24″ HD pivoting touchscreen
• Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor

Pros:

• Largest touchscreen in the category (24″ pivoting display)
• SmartAdjust automatically personalizes resistance during workouts
• 10,000+ iFIT workouts, including off-rower strength and yoga
• Stream Netflix, music, and other entertainment
• Virtually silent operation
• 10-year frame warranty

Cons:

• Requires an iFIT subscription for full features
• Lower weight capacity (300 lbs)
• Does not fold (stands vertically only)
• Magnetic resistance is less realistic than air/water
• Must be plugged in

Best For: Entertainment-focused exercisers who want streaming options, those who prefer quiet operation, and iFIT subscribers with other NordicTrack equipment.

---

Mid-Range Tier ($400-$900)

JOROTO Oak Water Rowing Machine

Budget Water Rowing

Price: $500-$700

JOROTO offers water resistance at a lower price point with its FSC-certified oak water rower. The 180-degree folding design and Kinomap compatibility make it a compelling value for those seeking an authentic rowing feel without the WaterRower price tag.

Key Specifications:

• Resistance: Water (6 adjustable levels via water line)
• Weight Capacity: 330-400 lbs (model dependent)
• Inseam: Up to 39″ (195 cm user height)
• Dimensions: Folds 180 degrees for storage
• Monitor: LCD with Bluetooth (Kinomap compatible)
• Assembly: 90% pre-assembled
• Warranty: 1-year parts

Pros:

• Real solid oak construction at a fraction of the WaterRower price
• 180-degree folding for compact storage
• Bluetooth connectivity with the Kinomap app support
• 30-day Kinomap subscription included
• Quiet water resistance with soothing sounds
• High weight capacity for the price

Cons:

• Less refined than premium water rowers
• Basic LCD monitor
• Shorter warranty than competitors
• The water tank requires periodic maintenance

Best For: Budget-conscious buyers who want an authentic water-resistance feel, those with limited storage space, and Kinomap users seeking a compatible rower.

---

MERACH Q1S Magnetic Rowing Machine

Smart Budget Innovation

Price: $370-$450

The JOROTO MR60 combines air and magnetic resistance for a unique dual-system approach. With 10 adjustable levels, a 49.5″ extended rail, and commercial-grade construction, it punches above its price class.

Key Specifications:

• Resistance: Dual air + magnetic (10 levels)
• Flywheel: 10 lb with 32 blades
• Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
• Rail Length: 49.5″ (accommodates tall users)
• Monitor: Medical-grade LCD with Bluetooth
• Folding: Hydraulic spring-assisted
• Warranty: 1-year parts

Pros:

• The dual resistance system exceeds the typical budget rowers
• Extra-long rail accommodates nearly all users
• Racing-style handle for sensitive resistance adjustment
• Quieter than pure air rowers
• Kinomap and the FTMS app are compatible
• Easy hydraulic folding system

Cons:

• Less proven brand than Concept2 or Sunny
• The air component still produces some noise
• Basic monitor despite Bluetooth capability
• A 1-year warranty is shorter than that of premium brands

Best For: Taller rowers needing extended rail length, those seeking an air-resistance feel with magnetic quiet, and value seekers seeking commercial-grade construction.

---

JOROTO MR23 Water Rower

Entry Water Resistance

Price: $350-$450

The MR23 offers water resistance at the lowest price point in the category. While more basic than the oak models, it delivers the essential water-rowing experience with Kinomap connectivity.

Key Specifications:

• Resistance: Water (12 blades)
• Tank Capacity: 14L with zero-leak design
• Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
• Frame: Steel main frame and rail
• Monitor: LCD with Bluetooth
• Folding: Stands upright for storage
• Warranty: 1-year parts

Pros:

• Lowest-priced water rower available
• Zero-leak tank design
• Bluetooth and Kinomap compatible
• 80% pre-assembled
• Compact vertical storage

Cons:

• The steel frame lacks WaterRower aesthetics
• Lower weight capacity
• Basic 12-blade resistance system
• Budget build quality

Best For: First-time rowers curious about water resistance, budget buyers wanting a realistic rowing feel, and those prioritizing price over aesthetics.

---

Budget Tier (Under $400)

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Synergy Power Motion Rower

Enhanced Budget Champion

Price: $220-$280

The SF-RW5801 represents Sunny’s evolution of the budget magnetic rower, doubling the resistance levels while adding modern conveniences. With 16 resistance levels, improved weight capacity, and a tablet holder, this rower delivers exceptional value for apartment dwellers and beginners.

Key Specifications:

• Resistance: Magnetic (16 levels)
• Weight Capacity: 285 lbs
• Rail Inseam: 43″
• Seat Height: Low profile
• Monitor: LCD (scan, time, count, calories, total count)
• Folding: Upright rail fold
• Warranty: 3-year frame, 180-day parts

Pros:

• 16 resistance levels (double most budget rowers)
• Pivoting foot pedals accommodate varied ankle mobility
• Tablet holder for streaming workouts
• Built-in bottle holder
• Near-silent magnetic operation
• Folds to 32″L x 22″W x 47″H for storage
• Transport wheels for easy movement
• A 3-year frame warranty is exceptional at this price

Cons:

• 43″ rail may limit users over 6’0″
• No Bluetooth connectivity (standard model)
• Basic LCD without app integration
• The 285 lb capacity is lower than mid-range models

Best For: Budget-conscious beginners wanting room to grow, apartment dwellers needing quiet operation, users under 6’0″ seeking reliable magnetic resistance with modern features.

---

Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Magnetic Rower

Budget Smart Rower

Price: $200-$300

The Fitness Reality 1000 Plus brings Bluetooth connectivity and app tracking to the budget category. With 14 resistance levels and a 39″ rail accommodating users up to 6’6″, it offers impressive specs for under $300.

Key Specifications:

• Resistance: Magnetic (14 levels, dual transmission)
• Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
• Rail Inseam: 39″ (users up to 6’6″)
• Flywheel: 6.4 lbs
• Monitor: LCD with Bluetooth
• Apps: MyCloudFitness, GameFit (virtual racing)
• Folding: Yes, with transport wheels
• Warranty: 1-year limited

Pros:

• Bluetooth connectivity is rare at this price
• 14 resistance levels (more than most budget rowers)
• Long rail accommodates taller users
• Virtual racing through the GameFit app
• Ultra-quiet nylon belt drive

Cons:

• 250 lb weight capacity
• Basic monitor relies on a phone app
• Lighter flywheel than premium rowers
• A 1-year warranty is short

Best For: Tech-savvy beginners wanting app connectivity, taller users on a budget, and those wanting gamified workout motivation.

---

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Compact Rower

Entry-Level Essential

Price: $100-$150

The SF-RW1205 strips rowing to its essentials at the lowest possible price point. With 12 hydraulic resistance levels and a compact footprint, it is ideal for casual users with limited space.

Key Specifications:

• Resistance: Hydraulic (12 levels)
• Weight Capacity: 220 lbs
• Design: Compact, space-saving
• Monitor: LCD (time, count, calories, total count)
• Seat: Padded with ergonomic design
• Pedals: Pivoting with foam handlebars
• Warranty: 1-year frame, 180-day parts

Pros:

• Extremely affordable entry point
• Compact design perfect for small spaces
• 12 resistance levels provide progression
• Easy assembly
• Lightweight and portable

Cons:

• Hydraulic resistance is less smooth than magnetic
• Lowest weight capacity in the guide
• Very basic construction
• Not suitable for serious training
• Shorter lifespan expected

Best For: True beginners testing if rowing suits them, extremely limited budgets, and small apartments where space is at a premium.

---

Understanding Rowing Machine Specifications

Resistance Types Explained

Air Resistance Air rowers use a fan flywheel that creates resistance as you pull. The faster you row, the harder it gets. This dynamic resistance closely mimics on-water rowing and is preferred by competitive rowers. Air rowers tend to be noisier but provide the most authentic rowing feel.

Water Resistance: Water rowers use paddles that spin through a water-filled tank. Like air resistance, effort determines difficulty, but water provides a smoother, more consistent stroke. The sound of rushing water adds an immersive element. Maintenance includes periodic water treatment.

Magnetic Resistance Magnetic rowers use magnets positioned near a metal flywheel. Moving the magnet closer increases resistance. This system is nearly silent and allows precise resistance settings, but the feel is less dynamic than air or water. Ideal for apartments or shared spaces.

Hydraulic Resistance Hydraulic rowers use pistons to create resistance. They are the most compact and affordable option, but they provide a less natural rowing motion. Best for casual use or extreme space constraints.

Weight Capacity Considerations

Weight capacity indicates both maximum user weight and overall build quality:

• Under 250 lbs: Budget construction, best for lighter users
• 250-350 lbs: Mid-range durability, suitable for most home users
• 350-500 lbs: Commercial-grade construction
• 500+ lbs: Exceptional durability (Concept2, WaterRower)

Choose a rower with at least 50 lb of headroom above your body weight to ensure stability and longevity.

Rail Length and User Height

Rail length or inseam measurement determines maximum user height:

• Under 36″: Suitable for users under 5’10”
• 36-38″: Accommodates most users up to 6’2″
• 39″+ or extended rail: Required for users over 6’2″

Taller users should prioritize rail length to achieve full leg extension, which is essential for proper rowing form and maximum workout benefit.

Monitor and Connectivity

Basic LCD: Displays essential metrics (time, strokes, distance, calories). No connectivity. Found on budget models.

LCD with Bluetooth: Basic display but connects to smartphone apps for enhanced tracking and virtual workouts.

Touchscreen with Streaming: Large displays (10-24″) that stream instructor-led classes. Require monthly subscriptions ($25-$44/month).

Storage and Footprint

Rowing machines are inherently long (7-8 feet assembled). Storage options include:

• Foldable: Rail folds upward, reducing length by 40-50%
• Separable: Breaks into two pieces (Concept2 style)
• Vertical Standing: Tilts upright against the wall
• Non-folding: Requires dedicated floor space

Measure your space before purchasing. Even folded rowers need vertical clearance and floor area.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories does rowing burn? Rowing burns approximately 400-600 calories per hour at moderate intensity, making it one of the most efficient cardio exercises available. The exact number depends on your weight, intensity, and fitness level.

Is rowing better than running? Both provide excellent cardiovascular benefits. Rowing engages 86% of your muscles (including the upper body) compared to running’s lower-body focus. Rowing is also lower-impact, making it easier on the joints. Many athletes use both for complementary training.

How long should a rowing workout be? Beginners should start with 15-20 minutes and build to 30-45 minutes as endurance improves. Even 10-15 minute high-intensity sessions can deliver significant fitness benefits. Consistency matters more than duration.

What muscles does rowing work? Rowing engages legs (quads, hamstrings, glutes), core (abs, obliques, lower back), and upper body (lats, traps, biceps, forearms). The drive phase is approximately 60% legs, 20% core, and 20% arms.

Do I need a subscription for rowing machines? Only smart rowers with streaming content require subscriptions. The Concept2, WaterRower, and budget magnetic rowers operate without a subscription. Smart rowers (Hydrow, NordicTrack) offer limited functionality without their respective memberships.

How do I choose between air and magnetic resistance? Choose air resistance if you want an authentic rowing feel and don’t mind the noise. Choose magnetic if you need quiet operation or live in an apartment. Water resistance falls somewhere between moderate noise and a natural feel.

What is a good stroke rate for beginners? Beginners should aim for 18-22 strokes per minute, with a focus on form. As technique improves, increase to 24-30 strokes per minute for steady-state cardio or 30+ for high-intensity intervals.

---

Our Top Picks by Category

Best Overall: Concept2 RowErg Model D The industry standard delivers unmatched durability, performance tracking, and resale value. No subscription required.

Best for Apartments: Hydrow Wave Near-silent electromagnetic resistance and compact storage make it ideal for shared living spaces.

Best Water Rower: WaterRower Natural Beautiful aesthetics, soothing sound, and authentic rowing feel in a machine that doubles as furniture.

Best Budget: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Proven reliability, quiet operation, and thousands of positive reviews at an accessible price point.

Best Value: JOROTO MR60 Air + Magnetic Dual resistance system and extended rail deliver premium features at mid-range pricing.

Best for Streaming: NordicTrack RW900. The largest touchscreen and iFIT integration create an immersive, trainer-led workout experience.

---

Affiliate Disclosure: Stem & Stone earns from qualifying purchases. Our recommendations are based on research and user feedback, not affiliate relationships.