Not all rowing machines are built equal, so you should consider your priorities when shopping for the best rowing machine. Do you prefer water or air resistance? Is price or noise level important to you? ZDNET experts scoured today’s market to find the best rowing machines so you can make the right choice. For other ideas on how to improve your health and fitness, check out ZDNET’s picks for the best home gym equipment, best workout apps, and best fitness deals today!
Price: $990Resistance mechanism: AirDimensions: 96" x 24" x 14"Maximum weight recommendation: 500lbs Warranty: Limited two to five-year warranty
The Concept 2 RowErg Model D uses air resistance to train your major muscle groups in a well-rounded workout. The machine’s PM5 Performance Monitor self-calibrates to bring you real-time data, including pace, watts, and stroke rate. Plus, you can connect wirelessly to other apps. The Concept 2 RowErg is made with an aluminum and stainless steel frame for greater durability. It can accommodate up to 500 pounds, but it’s also the largest rowing machine on our list – make sure you have space to store it. Your purchase comes with an extended 90-day return policy and a limited two to five-year warranty.
Price: $2,499Resistance mechanism: WaterDimensions: 86" x 23" x 40"Maximum weight recommendation: 500lbsWarranty: Limited one to five-year warranty
The Ergatta Rower offers a variety of workouts, so you’ll never get bored of rowing. Sessions are uniquely game-based, with an enormous library of workouts and new classes added each week. The Ergatta rower auto-calibrates while you enjoy a full-body, low-impact workout, all controlled from a 17.3" digital touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity. With cherry wood construction, it boasts an unobtrusive, sleek design with built-in wheels for easy storage. Plus, it can accommodate users weighing up to 500 pounds.
Price: $1,795Resistance mechanism: WaterDimensions: 86" x 24" x 27"Maximum weight recommendation: 400lbsWarranty: Limited one to five-year warranty
Former NFL tight end Rob Gronkowski is a leader on the field, but he’s a leader in the gym, too. His company, Gronk Fitness brings us the Waterrower M1 HiRise Rowing Machine with S4 Monitor. It employs the patented WaterFlywheel, which mimics the motion of a boat on water. By using a WaterFlywheel in place of a motor like most rowing machines, this rower offers users unmatched physical and physiological benefits. Plus, the machine’s excellent durability makes it well worth your dollar. Constructed of pressed steel with a powder coat finish, this commercial-quality rowing machine adjusts to your fitness level, making it a fantastic fit for both beginning and advanced users.
Price: $2,195Resistance mechanism: MagneticDimensions: 86" x 25" x 47″Maximum weight recommendation: 375lbs
The Hydrow Rower simulates waterways all over the world for your daily rowing adventure. This rower utilizes patented electromagnetic drag technology to match the feeling of outdoor rowing, challenging you to healthy, rigorous exercise. With front-facing speakers, you can focus on your workouts, which are led by world-class athletes and set to fun music. The oversized 22" touchscreen display is adjustable, and the water rower is suitable for users any age. The Hydrow Rower is easy to store, but there’s an additional purchase for upright storage accessibility.
Price: $1,699Resistance mechanism: MagneticDimensions: 82" x 22" x 54"Maximum weight recommendation: 250lbsWarranty: Limited one to ten-year warranty
Made of alloy steel and an aluminum frame, the NordicTrack RW900 is a fantastic rower that combines magnetic and air resistance. The rower offers 26 digital resistance levels and workout classes both on and off the machine. The extra-large 22" HD touchscreen allows you to easily download and stream workouts directly to your rower. The rower also includes a free 30-day membership to iFIT family so you can stream workouts and join studio classes. However, the rower’s maximum weight capacity is 250 pounds, which may rule out a number of potential users. You can compare the best rowing machines based on price, resistance mechanism, and dimensions below.
Resistance type: Rowing machines can employ different types of resistance mechanisms. The best rowing machines offer air, water, or magnetic resistance. Weight capacity: Some rowing machines can accommodate more weight than others. The best rowing machines offer a weight capacity between 250 and 500 pounds.Noise level: If you live in an apartment or are sensitive to sound, noise level can be an important factor. Consider how loud each rowing machine may be in your home or office.Monitor: Monitors range significantly in size and features. We prefer rowing machines that include large touchscreens for convenient use.
Along with price, we also compared warranty policies.
