The 7 Best Home Rowing Machines – [2020 Reviews]

Cardiovascular exercise has an innumerable amount of benefits for both the mind and the body. There is a common misconception that to perform cardio exercise, you have to be on your feet (running, elliptical, etc.).

Sure, you could go swimming, but what about the days when you don’t want to leave your house? We have the perfect solution for you: a rowing machine. We’ve spent over the past month reviewing and testing several  models to bring you the best rowing machines available today!

Best Home Rowing Machines

	Stamina ATS Air Rower – Rowing Machine	Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine	Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Rower
Resistance Method	Air Resistance	Air Resistance	Magnetic
Dimensions	6.5 x 1.5 feet	9 x 2 feet	7 x 2.5 feet
Folding	Yes	Yes	Yes
Customer Ratings	3.8 / 5.0 Stars	4.9 / 5.0 Stars	3.9 / 5.0 Stars

Also see: Best Rowing Machine Comparison Table

Quick Answer: The 7 Best-Rated Home Rowing Machines

1. Stamina ATS Air Rower – Rowing Machine
2. Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine
3. Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Rower
4. Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
5. WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine in Ash Wood
6. Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine
7. XTERRA Fitness ERG600W Water Rower

Home Rowing Machine Reviews

#1- Stamina ATS Air Rower – Rowing Machine

Up first on our list of recommendations is this all-around incredible air resistance rowing machine from Stamina. This is the Stamina ATS Air Rower and it is packed with great features and benefits. This air rowing machine uses dynamic air resistance to give you an easily adjustable workout. 

Rather than manually adjusting a setting to determine how much resistance you are getting, you simply row harder or softer to get your desired resistance. This can be a great feature since it means the resistance always matches your pace. A multi-functioning workout monitor features an easy-to-read LCD display screen. 

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#2- Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine

Here is another excellent rowing machine that uses air resistance. It is a good bit different than the previous air rower, however. First off, it’s a little bigger and heavier than the Stamina ATS rowing machine. The larger size is due to greater versatility and high durability with excellent materials throughout. 

Even so, if you want a particularly compact option, this might not be the best choice. It does come apart into two pieces and includes built-in caster wheels for more convenient storage, though. A weight limit of 500 lbs is twice the limit of the Stamina ATS. This means it works safely for a wider variety of users. 

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#3- Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Rower

This next rowing machine is another great pick from Stamina. This is the Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Rower. While it is the same brand as our first pick, the two rowing machines don’t share many common features. The biggest difference is the resistance type, of course. 

The Avari is a magnetic rower as opposed to the air resistance that the ATS uses. This means it is quieter and that you manually adjust the resistance level rather than the resistance simply increasing the harder you row.

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#4- Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine

Here is another magnetic rowing machine from Sunny Health & Fitness. This magnetic rower is actually our least expensive pick and comes at an incredible value perfect for those on a tight budget.

It is more compact than the Stamina magnetic rowing machine and almost as small as the Stamina air rower in our top spot. 

It’s also 20 pounds lighter than the Stamina magnetic rower. The 250-lbs weight limit is on the lower side but still works fine for many users.

This model does fold up and include wheels for easier storing. Pivoting foot plates, a padded seat, and padded handlebar all help to increase your overall comfort while rowing. 

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#5- WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine in Ash Wood

Now this is a really impressive and interesting rowing machine. This incredible piece of equipment best recreates the feeling of real rowing with water resistance! It uses a specialized tank filled with water and blades within that to make it so that you’re actually rowing against water rather than simulating the feeling with air or magnets. 

Not only does it feel more realistic, but it sounds realistic with a soothing and invigorating rush of water with each stroke you take. This is the WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine.

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#6- Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine

From Fitness Reality, here is the third and final magnetic rowing machine on our list of top picks. This magnetic rower is very affordable at about the same cost as the Stamina ATS air rower.

It also has some really interesting and beneficial unique features that set it apart from other picks and really amp up the overall value. 

The main thing that makes this rower so different from other rowing machines is that it is designed for a variety of workouts rather than only being able to be used strictly for rowing.

On the front of the machine, you can see front foot pads. These provide you a stable place to plant your feet while doing standing exercises. 

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#7- XTERRA Fitness ERG600W Water Rower

Finally, our last pick is one more water rowing machine. This option, just like the WaterRower rowing machine, has a built-in water tank and flywheel that provides a more realistic feel and sound to your rowing experience. 

However, more traditional rowing machine materials like aluminum and steel keep the machine much lighter than the WaterRower and also allow it to have a much more affordable price at about half the cost of the wooden rowing machine from WaterRower. It’s on the smaller side in regard to the footprint and has a decent weight limit of 300 lbs. 

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Home Rowing Machines Comparison Table

How to Choose the Best Rowing Machine

A home rowing machine is a great investment into your health and fitness. It has lots of benefits and is simple enough for almost anyone to master efficiently. The problem you may run into though, is which rowing machine is the best option for you specifically. 

There are many varying features and specifications among home rowing machines. It is important to really consider your wants and needs versus the options available to find your perfect home rower.

We have broken down what you should be looking for in the best home rower based on your specific situation, needs, and wants when it comes to a rowing machine. 

Resistance Type

As you can tell from the machines we’ve covered, they all vary in terms of resistance types. Some use magnetic, some air, and some water. Let’s discuss each one so you can make an educated decision and start further narrowing your options down.

The first thing you really want to consider before you start shopping for a home rowing machine is which type of resistance is right for you. There are 4 kinds of rowing machines but we have chosen to include only 3 of the types within our recommendations and will go into detail about each type below. 

Air Resistance

Air is going to typically be the cheapest option and also the most lightweight. The downside here is that they’re usually the loudest as they utilize flywheels.

Rowers that use air resistance feature a flywheel that spins as you pull on the handlebar. This causes the fan blades to spin that must force air out of the way as they do so. This force creates the resistance of air rowing machines. 

One of the cool things about these is that they are dynamic. Basically, the harder you row, the more resistance you will get from the rower. These are relatively noisy and come in a wide variety of prices for almost any budget.

Magnetic Resistance

Magnetic machines are often the most convenient, as they weight a normal amount or are very lightweight and have a great amount of control over resistance levels.

Additionally, noise is not an issue at all, making them perfect for home use at any time of day or night.

Magnetic resistance is another very common resistance method used for home rowing machines. These rowers feature a magnetic braking system that gives the machine the resistance needed for your workout. 

These are very smooth and quiet rowing machines. You set your resistance level manually rather than it simply increasing with the power of your rowing. These are also available in a wide variety of prices. 

Water Resistance

Water is obviously going to be the most “natural” or “authentic” rowing experience from your own home.

However, these machines are typically going to weigh more than the other types as you have to actually have water in the machine for it to work properly.

While not a rule, water resistance is oftentimes more difficult to regulate with precision in terms of different resistance levels.

Some rowing machines are made to simulate a natural rowing experience as close as possible.

These water rowing machines feature a flywheel like air resistance rowing machines – except instead of using air for resistance, they use water within an enclosed tank.

They feel and sound very natural. They also have a really nice aesthetic to them. These are the most expensive type of rower, however. 

Hydraulic Resistance

The 4th type of rowing machine is a hydraulic rower. These don’t really allow for natural stroke motion and therefore we don’t consider them a worthwhile option compared to other home rower types that are available.

Resistance Levels / Adjustability

Going along with the type of resistance you choose are the resistance levels or adjustability of your home rower. With air rowers, dynamic resistance that changes automatically as you row can be very beneficial. Some air rowers offer additional adjustability that basically allows you to change the range of resistance you are in. 

So, while they remain dynamic and increase resistance with increased force, they also start at a lower or higher resistance and then go up as you increase the force of your row. Water rowers are very similar to this because they also use a flywheel and therefore have that dynamic resistance to them where the harder you row, the higher the resistance is. 

You can also adjust the resistance range for this dynamic resistance by reducing or increasing the amount of water in the tank of the rower. This is where magnetic rowers differ more from other options. Their resistance is based off of magnetic force. So, it isn’t affected by your own force. Intead, you adjust it to your desired resistance. Different magnetic rowers have different ranges of adjustability here. 

Size

Depending on where you plan to use your home rower, the size of it can be pretty important. For many users, they have only a limited amount of space available for a home rowing machine.

The footprint of a rower can vary by a good few feet. So, it’s a really good idea to measure the space you want to place your home rower in and compare it to the dimensions of the options you’re considering before purchasing. 

There’s two things to take into consideration here: the size of your body and the available space you have in your home to use for your new rowing machine.

Rowing machines vary in length, so if you’re taller you should opt for one that will adjust to suit your height.

Also think about how much you weigh and make sure that the machine you have your eye on will be able to support it. Weight limits vary greatly, depending on the manufacturer and model.

Storage

Many rowing machines are designed for easier storage. This allows them to take up less space when not in use. Some options fold, some options come apart into more than one piece, and some simply stand upright when not in use. Think about what option may work best for your space. Also looking for options with built-in wheels can be very helpful for moving your rower in and out of storage as necessary. 

User Limits

It wouldn’t be very helpful or safe to have a rowing machine that you don’t meet the user specifications for. Each rowing machine has a weight limit of what that rower can safely support. Many rowers have weight limits of 250 lbs. This works great for lots of users, but if you are above the 250-lbs mark, don’t worry. 

Other rowing machines go up to 500-1000 lbs for the weight limit. This guarantees basically anyone can find a good rower that works for them. Some rowers also give recommended height ranges to show what heights they work best for. These are also worth considering if you aren’t pretty close to average height range. 

Display Screen/Workout Monitor

Most rowing machines feature some sort of display screen that displays workout monitoring. The complexity of workout monitoring varies a lot between different rower models. Some count only things like calories burned and time rowing. 

Others give you lots of information like speed, distance, stroke rate, heart rate, and more. The size of the screen can also vary quite a bit, so that is also worth your consideration as you are shopping for a home rowing machine.

While this doesn’t necessarily affect performance of the rowing machine, itself, it can affect how motivated you are. Stats are actually a huge part of staying motivated during cardio workouts.

Many people enjoy having accurate stats to track as they become more physically fit, as well as during their individual rowing sessions. Perhaps you want to only burn 200 calories and move on with your day.

If you don’t have a display screen, how will you know how many you’ve burned? Improving our body composition is a science, and real stats are needed to accurately track this.

However, not every screen is the same. Some are more dated-looking, grayscale screens which only show the very basics. Others are full-color LCD, backlit screens which most of us have become accustomed to in our day and age.

As an alternative or addition, there are some machines with capabilities, letting you can track all of your stats through a free app on your smartphone or even play games with others around the world!

Bluetooth Connectivity

Certain home rowers even feature Bluetooth connectivity. This means that the built-in workout monitor is able to connect wirelessly via Bluetooth to your phone. These rowers generally have a specific mobile app that they work with. This lets you compare workouts, see your progress, and just stay on top of your fitness even on the go. 

Built-In Workouts

Certain rowers with more complex workout monitors include built-in workout programs. Many users find this more motivating and beneficial than simply just rowing freely.

It can give you more specifics goals and help you stick to your fitness regime better. Some even include games to make working out more entertaining for you!

Materials

What your rower is made from is certainly worth taking into consideration before choosing which home rower is best for you. Most options are made of materials like aluminum and steel. They’re strong and relatively lightweight and inexpensive. 

However, some high-end rowing machines feature a wooden construction. This adds weight and definitely adds cost to your rower. Still though, they are highly durable and very strong. The fact that they look stunning is a worthwhile bonus for many. 

Comfort Features

You surely want a comfortable rowing experience, so choosing a rower with good comfort features is a must. Look for things like a nice cushioned seat and padded handlebar.

You also want to take into consideration things like pivoting foot plates that keep your full body in an ergonomic and comfortable position throughout each stroke. 

Versatility

Finally, choose how much versatility you want with your rowing machine. Most rowing machines are designed just for one simple workout – rowing. They don’t generally have a lot of versatility in this sense. 

However, there are options available that will assist you in working out in other ways. Our pick from Fitness Reality above actually features standing foot plates for a variety of exercises. This versatility really increases the overall value of the rower.

Now that you’ve had the opportunity to read through all of the best rowing machines on the market today, do you know which one you’ll be using in your home?

If not, then it’s important we take a look at the vital questions to ask yourself before you decide on a model. We know how difficult it can be, so we’ve decided to go ahead and write up the comprehensive buying guide, below.

By the time you’re done reading, there will be no doubt which is the one for you!

Connectivity

That kind of goes hand-in-hand with our last point. Some may not care much about the more “techy” features, though many people enjoy being able to connect their smart devices to their rowing machines.

While they’re going to cost some extra cash, it’s worth it in many ways. You’ll be able to track and see your workout results. There aren’t many models out there that come with Bluetooth, but it’s more than worth spending the extra money to get one for your home.

They allow you to connect to your smart devices to see your results in real time or track them whenever you feel like it. This makes for better goal setting and can also help to keep you accountable.

In addition, there are some which let you workout in other “worlds”, rowing alongside friends or strangers around the world!

Comfort

When it comes to working out, there’s always some discomfort involved. However, this discomfort should stem from your forcing your body to do work – not because the machine you’re using is causing it due to poor design or fit.

There are a few different points to consider in terms of comfort in rowing machines: the footplates, seat, and handlebar.

Footplate

These should always feature a non-slip surface and ideally grooves to keep your feet in place, no matter how grueling the workout is.

Additionally, they should be big enough to fit your feet on there without risking them falling or sliding off. There are some which pivot, which is ideal in terms of natural movement and motions.

Consequently, this will also reduce the chance of injury while allowing you to move easier to have better results.

Seat

The seat should be wide enough to provide the support you need while being able to move around without having to continuously adjust yourself or move to avoid slipping off or losing your balance.

Contoured seats will help to reduce soreness and keep you planted in place, working with the natural shape of your body.

Handlebars

As you’re going to be holding onto these the entire time, you don’t want them to cause sore spots or chafe your hands.

The best models will have handlebars covered in a thick, pliable foam material to protect your hands and fingers from the hard bar inside. Contoured bars help with this, too, and can help you grip onto the bar more securely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I decide which type of rowing machine is best for meeting my goals?

A: First, you need to establish what your actual goals and needs are. After you’ve planned this out, consider these points:

1. How much control would you like to have ideally over particular settings?
2. How smooth do you need the machine to be?
3. How realistic do you want the motion to be?
4. What kind of technology you need as far as the display/stats go.

Q: Which rowing machines are the quietest?

A: If you are going for quiet, then the magnetic resistance rowing machines are going to be the best or you. Even if someone is in the next room, they may not hear anything or realize you’re working out! Listen to music, watch Netflix, or even chat on the phone – the noise isn’t going to be loud enough to disrupt anything else that is going on.

Q: Are rowing machines meant to be portable enough for storage?

A: As most are made for at-home use, they’re going to take into consideration the possibility that you’ll need to stow it away when you’re not using it and lack a dedicated home gym or room to keep it in.

Just keep in mind that water resistance rowing machines typically do not offer this benefit as they’ll have a fixed wooden frame that cannot be folded up and do not have transport wheels.

Q: Will the budget-friendly model, Sunny Rowing Machine, accommodate a man that’s 6’2” tall?

A: Yes, it will – so long as he’s under the 250-pound weight limit and doesn’t have disproportionately long legs. In fact, he’ll even have a few inches to spare so he’s not cramped and can move naturally and without restriction.

Q: Will a rowing workout machine help me build my core strength?

A: Absolutely – in fact, rowing is one of the best machines to build up your balance and core strength. Your abdominals, obliques, and back muscles will all get toned up, while improving your cardiovascular health.

Q: Does a rowing machine provide a full workout?

Yes! A rowing machine gives you a nice full-body workout. It covers almost all of your muscles and does so while remaining very low-impact on your joints. 

Q: Are water rowing machines actually better than air or magnetic rowing machines?

Water resistance rowing machines are not necessarily better than other options. It depends a lot on personal preference.

Water rowers provide a more accurate feeling and sounding rowing experience, but you can still get an excellent rowing workout from other machines with different methods of resistance. 

Buying Tips

#1: Always keep your personal safety in mind before anything else.

Before starting any new exercise regime, make sure to consult your general physician if you’re pregnant or recently gave birth, if you’re recovering from an orthopedic injury, or muscle strain, etc.

If you have any doubts at all, it’s always better to be safe than sorry so consult your doctor if you have any questions!

#2: Make sure you absolutely have the required space available for your new machine.

Don’t just “eye” the area and estimate if you have the required room – this is going to be a hassle, a waste of money, and will possibly end up in injury or frustration.

Each one comes in a different size and weight, so always measure the area and make sure to take into consideration a few inches (minimum) of room for you to move backwards and have your arms moving properly.

#3: Take your budget into consideration

Rowing machines are going to typically cost quite a chunk of change – especially if you want one that’s made to last for many years to come. Even if you can’t afford the most expensive models, you’ll still get excellent results with the more budget-friendly choices.

There is really no question that a good home rowing machine is a perfect choice for an easy, low-impact, at-home, full-body workout. The question mostly just comes down to which rowing machine is the right choice for your specific needs and desires. 

We hope our guide has been helpful for you as you try to choose a home rower. It mostly comes down to choosing your preferred resistance type and making sure that you fit in the limits of the machine and that the machine will fit into the space you have for it. 

Things like workout monitoring capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity, and materials can also help you narrow down your choices.

Just don’t forget how important it is to choose a reputable retailer with excellent customer service and a great-priced selection of products – like Amazon, for example.

This helps guarantee you are fully satisfied with your purchase and can get started rowing your way to great fitness in no time!

Summary

Now that you are practically an expert in the world of rowing machines, do you know which one is perfect for your workout plans? If not, then there’s no need to worry.

No matter which model you choose from our guide, you can rest easy knowing you’re getting one of the best on the market today.

However, what’s most important is that you select one ideal for your fitness goals and your individual body type. We hope that our guide has helped you do exactly that. Thanks for joining us, and we’ll see you again soon. Happy rowing!