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  4. 10 Best Home Gym Rowing Machines in 2022 (Personal Trainer-Reviewed)
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  • 10 Best Home Gym Rowing Machines in 2022 (Personal Trainer-Reviewed) 2
  • 10 Best Home Gym Rowing Machines in 2022 (Personal Trainer-Reviewed) 3
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10 Best Home Gym Rowing Machines in 2022 (Personal Trainer-Reviewed)

Looking for a different kind of workout instead of the same old treadmill, bike, and elliptical routines? Rowing machines are versatile and can be used for cardio, toning, and strength training. They may not be as popular as other equipment, but they're perfect for total body workouts without putting stress on your knees and joints! 


But there's a lot out there to choose from, right? After all, workout equipment comes with a pretty high price tag. That's why we wrote a buying guide to help you find the perfect rowing machine for your home gym. Concept2's Model D rowing machine took our top prize for its ease of assembly, low noise level, and user-friendliness. See the rest of our favorites in our top 10 list!

Last updated 09/26/2023
Esther Leonardo
Expert
Certified Personal Trainer, Aquatics Professional
Esther Leonardo

I am a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Director of Aquatics. I've worked as a lifeguard and swim instructor since 2009, and personal and group fitness training since 2012. Over the years I've taught and worked in a variety of formats on both land and water. I believe that knowledge in fitness is key to growing stronger, working toward your goals, and preventing injury along the way.

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Table of Contents

Why Should I Get a Rowing Machine?

Why Should I Get a Rowing Machine?

You may have clicked on this article wondering if you even need a rowing machine. Our expert Esther Leonardo argues that, yes, they would be a great addition to your home workout routine! She says,


"Rowing machines are great for a multitude of reasons including posture improvement, workout versatility, and improved fitness. They're excellent for people looking for a machine that provides a great cardio and full-body strength workout.


Unlike exercises such as running, rowing is easier on your joints, which is great for those looking for something with less impact. You also use your entire body, unlike other exercise machines like spin bikes. Depending on the rowing machine, you can also easily move and store them, and they can be fairly lightweight."

How to Choose a Home Gym Rowing Machine - Buying Guide

Choosing the right rowing machine is easy if you keep our tips in mind. Keep reading this article and you'll find all the necessary information you need to know!

1

Choose Between Types of Rowing Machine

There are four main types of home gym rowing machine: air, water, hydraulic, and magnetic.

Air Rowing Machines Suit Beginners

Air Rowing Machines Suit Beginners
Source:amazon.com

Air rowing machines use, well, air to create resistance. They are the most common type that you see in fitness centers. If you have little experience with rowing machines, you may want to consider air rowing machines. 


Although they can be noisy, you can row at your own comfortable pace. This is because the tension levels are automatically adjusted according to how hard you row. The faster you pull, the greater the resistance level. 

Esther Leonardo
Certified Personal Trainer, Aquatics Professional
Esther Leonardo

Air rowers are the most common you will see in used by rowing teams and in gyms, particularly the Concept 2 Model D rower. As far as resistance goes, this one is the easiest to manage. 


Air rowers are smooth and require little maintenance. You'll get a great workout, and these machines tend to be light and easy to maneuver for those who are tight on space.

Water Machines Have a Stylish Design and are Extremely Quiet

Water Machines Have a Stylish Design and are Extremely Quiet
Source:amazon.com

Water rowing machines have a water tank in front of the machine and the resistance levels are generated by water. They have the most elegant designs and usually made with either wooden or steel frames. Plus, they're also smooth and very quiet. 


Like an air rowing machine, the tension levels are adjusted by your pace. They’re quite expensive compared with other types, but they provide the most efficient and realistic experience

Esther Leonardo
Certified Personal Trainer, Aquatics Professional
Esther Leonardo

Water rowers are great for those looking for a real-life feel while rowing. These are better for those who go out on the water with a team or in their own boats. While they can be quieter than air rowers, they do still have some noise. 


Something to keep in mind is that these machines are heavier and, once placed, cannot be moved unless you drain the water from it. Be sure to keep these away from heavy objects that could fall on your water chamber and crack it. I would also not recommend having one on carpet or wood floors.

Hydraulic Ones are Compact and Affordable

Hydraulic Ones are Compact and Affordable
Source:amazon.com

Hydraulic are the cheapest and the most compact design among all types of rowing machines. They use air or fluid for resistance and can be adjustable. 


Unlike others that have one handlebar in front, hydraulic are equipped with two oars on both sides of the body. So, they’re great machines for an upper body workout. However, you may find some models that come with one handlebar, too!

Esther Leonardo
Certified Personal Trainer, Aquatics Professional
Esther Leonardo

Hydraulic rowers are great for people who are looking for something inexpensive, easy to move, and compact. This is a good machine to get yourself started on rowing if you aren't sure whether you will like rowing or not, but keep in mind that they do not move as smoothly as other types.


However, I would not recommend a hydraulic rower for those who are into heavier workouts. These machines are meant for a workout you do in front of the TV during your favorite show, not the one where you go through a full cross training circuit.

Magnetic Offers Smooth Rowing and Durability

Magnetic Offers Smooth Rowing and Durability
Source:amazon.com

Another popular type of rowing machine that you can see everywhere, these are generally quiet, provide a smooth rowing motion, and are very durable. 


Magnetic rowing machines use a braking system to generate the level of resistance. Some models offer manual resistance while others offer automatic resistance. 


Some machines require electricity, which isn’t convenient for everyone; but it’s a good option for someone who has a low budget since they’re known as one of the most affordable models in the market. 

Esther Leonardo
Certified Personal Trainer, Aquatics Professional
Esther Leonardo

Magnetic rowers are great for those who are looking for something with the style and feel of an air rower but without the noise. Also, like air rowers, these machines provide a smooth rowing feel. 


Some of them are fairly easy to take apart and move around the room to store. Magnetic rowers are great for a wide range of people. The only downside is that it doesn't provide the "real feel" of rowing through the water.

2

Consider Useful Designs and Features

Consider Useful Designs and Features
Source:amazon.com

Some of the basic features for rowing machines are things such as an LCD monitor that shows your workout stats, including time, distance, calories, strokes, and rpm, to help you track your workout progress.


Other bonus features are a foldable design, transportation wheels, a water bottle holder, heart rate monitor chest straps, preset-programmed workouts, an HD touch screen display, interactive training, and applications that can connect to your phone.

Esther Leonardo
Certified Personal Trainer, Aquatics Professional
Esther Leonardo

Some of the things I look for when shopping for a rower are moveability and funtionality of my display screen. I like rowers that have wheels on the back, making them easy to move around, and ones that have the ability to be taken apart for transport or stored upright so I can open a space up. 


Display screens will mostly tell you data about your stroke speed, split time, and distance, but I look for a machine that has the ability to let me build in a workout with sets and distance so I don't have to keep track.

3

Take Your Available Space into Account

Take Your Available Space into Account

Rowing machines are pretty bulky, so it’s important to make sure that you have enough space for the machines. The average size of a machine is 2 feet wide and 8 feet long


If you have a small space, we suggest you look for one with a folding design that doesn't take up as much space and is easy to move around.


Besides the machine itself, we suggest you not put the machine too close to the wall and spare a little space at the back for your arms and elbows when rowing.  

Esther Leonardo
Certified Personal Trainer, Aquatics Professional
Esther Leonardo

Space is important when considering a rowing machine. Water rowers stay where you place them, so make sure you have room to maneuver around them. 


Depending on your air or magnetic rower, you may also need to find a single place for it, but some can be stored vertically to allow for more room. Hydraulic rowers are the easiest to move and take up the least amount of space.

4

Check the Weight Capacity of the Machine

Check the Weight Capacity of the Machine

In general, rowing machines can be used by most people. The average weight capacity for the cheap models are 250 pounds and 300 pounds for average-priced models. However, there are some models that can hold up to 600 pounds! 

Esther Leonardo
Certified Personal Trainer, Aquatics Professional
Esther Leonardo

Like any piece of equipment you purchase, you want to check your weight capacity. Ensure that you can use it safely and without worry before bringing it home. While these machines tend to be durable, rowers function with a sliding seat and need to have that maneuverability to be effective.

5

Make Sure It’s Safe and Easy to Use

It'll waste your time and money if you buy a machine that matches all your needs but you can't use in reality. Thus, we recommend you pay attention to safety and convenience concerns, too!

Consider Comfort and Adjustability

Consider Comfort and Adjustability

The pedals and handlebar should be made with a non-slip material. It would be great if you can get pedals with adjustable straps to fit your feet.


We also suggest you look for a machine with a wide cushioned saddle to support your back and bottom. When you feel comfortable with the saddle and you sit in the right form, it can prevent injuries as well as improve your workout performance.

Esther Leonardo
Certified Personal Trainer, Aquatics Professional
Esther Leonardo

The most comfortable machines to use are usually going to be your water, air, and magnetic rowers. They row more smoothly and don't feel as cramped as hydraulic rowers. 


Another thing to consider is the seat each machine comes with. Some are hard plastic, and some have padding. However, you can look into purchasing a seat cover with extra padding. Another trick I used when I first started rowing was wearing padded bike shorts or a padded bike short layer under my leggings.

Pay Attention to Noise Level

Pay Attention to Noise Level

If you live in an apartment, you may want to take this concern more seriously than someone who lives in a house. We suggest you choose a quiet rowing machine like a water, magnetic, or hydraulic one. Try to avoid air rowing machines since they tend to be the noisiest type of all.

Esther Leonardo
Certified Personal Trainer, Aquatics Professional
Esther Leonardo

Noise tends to be a factor for people looking to purchase a rower, but here are some additional things to keep in mind. Earbuds will usually cancel out the noise of any machine you purchase. 


If you plan on playing your music over a speaker, you will need to increase the volume over something like an air rower, which may not be the best for those sharing a thin wall with neighbors.

Buy One That Comes With a Warranty

Buy One That Comes With a Warranty

The warranty is another important thing and we suggest you get a machine that comes with one. It'll be ideal if you can get a lifetime warranty, but a lot of machines offer a few years' warranty. 


However, we suggest you carefully check the terms and conditions to make sure that it covers all the parts and frame, not just some parts like handlebars or digital display only.

Esther Leonardo
Certified Personal Trainer, Aquatics Professional
Esther Leonardo

For any piece of equipment that your are investing in, making sure that it comes with a warranty is something to look for. Most equipment will function well for years when treated well, but there are the rare occassions where you may have a chain or strap break, or something jams your wheel.

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10 Best Home Gym Rowing Machines

These machines are different in the type of resistance, feature, and size. Make sure to carefully compare them before making a decision.  *Please note that these products were chosen after extensive research by mybest writers. The choices are not necessarily affiliated with or recommended by Esther Leonardo.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Concept2

Model D

Concept2  Model D 1

$1,266.94

High

An Olympic Machine That Will Last a Lifetime!

2

Merax

Water Rowing Machine

Merax Water Rowing Machine 1

$639.99

High Mid

Boost Your Motivation and Have More Fun With Racing Mode

3

Fitness Reality

1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rower2636

Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rower 1

$245.99

Mid

A Versatile Rowing Machine With Extra Large Foam Handlebar

4

MaxKare

Water Rowing Machine

MaxKare Water Rowing Machine 1

$379.99

Mid

A Large Adjustable Display Stand With a Heart Rate Monitor

5

Sunny Health and Fitness

Adjustable Resistance Rowing MachineSF-RW1205

Sunny Health and Fitness Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine 1

$84.99

Low

A Basic, Affordable Machine With a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee

6

MaxKare

Magnetic Rowing Machine

MaxKare Magnetic Rowing Machine 1

$239.94

Mid

A Very Quiet Machine With an Extra-Long Slide Rail

7

Mr Rudolf

Water Rowing Machines

Mr Rudolf Water Rowing Machines 1

$619.00

High Mid

A Wooden Frame to Give You a Real Rowing Experience

8

Joroto

Magnetic RowerMR35

Joroto Magnetic Rower 1

$349.99

Mid

10 Levels of Resistance With Double Sensors for Accurate Data

9

Lanos

Hydraulic Rowing Machine

Lanos Hydraulic Rowing Machine 1

$159.99

Low Mid

A Compact Manual Resistance Rowing Machine

10

MaxKare

Air Rowing Machine

MaxKare Air Rowing Machine 1

$289.99

Mid

Heavy Tension With iPad Holder to Keep You Entertained

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Concept2 Model D

Model D 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$1,266.94
High
Reference price
$1,266.94
High

An Olympic Machine That Will Last a Lifetime!

This is the same machine that is used in the Olympics and in many athletics events. They're built with quality materials with safety controls. It's also the world's best-selling rowing machine! This heavy-duty machine has a weight capacity of 500 pounds.


It comes with many features including an advanced performance monitor that allows you to set up your own workouts and compare all your data. You can connect with many applications like ergData and other third-party apps. You can even race with your friends or other users, too!


Reviewers claim that this is an ideal rowing machine because it has everything they need. First, it's very easy to assemble and set up, and took them less than 30 minutes! Second, it's well-built, easy to store, and very smooth with no vibration. Some people used it for five years and it's still in good condition.


Since electricity isn't required, it automatically starts as soon as they use it. Unlike other air rowing machines that are noisy, this machine doesn't make a lot of noise. Most people also like the built-in racing games and how they can connect with many applications. This machine is absolutely worth the investment!

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No.2

MeraxWater Rowing Machine

Water Rowing Machine 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$639.99
High Mid
Reference price
$639.99
High Mid

Boost Your Motivation and Have More Fun With Racing Mode

Want to challenge yourself? Try the racing mode! Some people lose the motivation to work out alone. This machine is a great option for someone who wants to stay motivated or improve workout performance because you can compete with other users


It's made with a sturdy and durable frame with a space-saving design. Additionally, it gives a smooth and quiet rowing motion and comes with a large cushioned saddle, a well-padded handlebar, and a long footrest to support your rowing. 


Most reviewers claim that this is a great quality machine that comes with an elegant design, is well-built, convenient to move around, and very easy to assemble. It's also very quiet and gives smooth rowing. 


The display is easy to read and it gives accurate workout results, unlike other machines. It fits tall people (6'4") and is easy on joints and back, too! Many people say they don't regret buying this machine at all. 

No.3

Fitness Reality1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rower2636

1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rower 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$245.99
Mid
Reference price
$245.99
Mid

A Versatile Rowing Machine With Extra Large Foam Handlebar

This machine suits total body workouts. It comes with an extra-large foam handlebar to provide you a safe and comfortable grip. Moreover, you can use this handle for additional upper body exercises like tricep extensions, shoulder side raises, front raises, and more. 


Additionally, it offers Bluetooth and a free MyCloud fitness application for you to connect with your phone to track your performance and see your workout progress. 


Some reviewers had concerns about poor customer service that was slow to respond and take action. Some say they didn't even get feedback from the company. But others say it is sturdy, quiet, and easy to assemble. It took them less than an hour to set up! It's very smooth and works great for total body workouts. 

No.4

MaxKareWater Rowing Machine

Water Rowing Machine 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$379.99
Mid
Reference price
$379.99
Mid

A Large Adjustable Display Stand With a Heart Rate Monitor

This machine has a large adjustable LCD display that shows basic workout data and your heart rate. The pedals come with five pairs of hole sites that are easy to adjust and hold your feet securely in place.


Most people say it's a very heavy machine, but it's not difficult to put together. It also has excellent customer service. Some people received it with missing parts, but they got an immediate reply and replacement parts were shipped very quickly!


Some people say the handlebar is soft and comfortable to hold. Also, the LCD screen is easy to read and the saddle is wide and rolls smoothly. It doesn't take up much space and is easy to lift to store

No.5

Sunny Health and FitnessAdjustable Resistance Rowing MachineSF-RW1205

Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$84.99
Low
Reference price
$84.99
Low

A Basic, Affordable Machine With a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee

This machine offers basic features like an LCD monitor that shows time, calories, scan, count, and total counts. 


It comes with a non-slip handlebar, cushioned saddle, adjustable pedal straps, and 12 resistance levels. If you think this machine doesn't work great for you, you can also return the product within 30 days and get a full refund! 


However, some people say it came with missing parts and the resistance levels are not strong. The saddle is too small for some and the machine isn't durable.


But a lot of people say it's affordable, lightweight, and perfect for small spaces. It's effective for cardio, toning, and low-impact workouts. Tall people can also use this machine without any issue, too! Overall, it offers good value. 

No.6

MaxKareMagnetic Rowing Machine

Magnetic Rowing Machine 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$239.94
Mid
Reference price
$239.94
Mid

A Very Quiet Machine With an Extra-Long Slide Rail

If you're looking for a very quiet and durable machine, you should consider magnetic. They can be used for a very long time and may need little maintenance compared with other types. This machine offers 16 levels of magnetic tension and comes with an extra-long slide rail that can fit tall people.  


The LCD monitor isn't backlit, so it's quite difficult to read the workout data due to poor lighting. However, many people support the claim that this machine is very quiet, solid, and smooth. It also comes with many resistance levels that help to burn extra calories. Last but not least, it has excellent customer service.

No.7

Mr RudolfWater Rowing Machines

Water Rowing Machines 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$619.00
High Mid
Reference price
$619.00
High Mid

A Wooden Frame to Give You a Real Rowing Experience

How good it is to feel like you're rowing a real boat with the sound of water? This machine gives you such an experience because it's made with an oak frame and uses water for resistance.


It offers a free waterproof cover that can protect your machine from dust, UV rays, and scratches and can help to extend the lifespan of your machine. 


Most reviewers say the wooden design and the water sound make them feel like they're rowing an actual boat. It makes them feel relaxed but at the same time, it makes them sweat! Some people recommend watching an instruction video because it'll guide you on how to sit and row in the correct way to prevent injuries. 

No.8

JorotoMagnetic RowerMR35

Magnetic Rower 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$349.99
Mid
Reference price
$349.99
Mid

10 Levels of Resistance With Double Sensors for Accurate Data

This is a great machine that can be used for many purposes including cardio, toning, strength training, low-intensity, or even high-intensity. Moreover, it comes with double sensors that give you more accurate workout results.


Since it has many resistances, it's perfect for a family workout machine. It's easy to put together and doesn't take much time if you follow the installation manual that explains it clearly step by step.


Some reviewers say it's noisy, but others feel the seat and handlebar move smoothly with no vibration. It comes with a foldable design, which is a good choice for a small room. 

No.9

LanosHydraulic Rowing Machine

Hydraulic Rowing Machine 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$159.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$159.99
Low Mid

A Compact Manual Resistance Rowing Machine

If you're not looking for anything fancy, you may want to consider this machine. It has basic features like an LCD display and manual resistance that you can easily adjust by twisting the knob. It also comes with big pedals with adjustable straps to fit your feet. 


However, some reviewers claim that it has short oars, so they can't do a full range of motion. It seems to work best for medium-height people. On the other hand, others claim that it's a great machine for home workouts that has small size, simple design, and basic features.

No.10

MaxKareAir Rowing Machine

Air Rowing Machine 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$289.99
Mid
Reference price
$289.99
Mid

Heavy Tension With iPad Holder to Keep You Entertained

This machine has a heavier starting resistance compared with normal air rowing machines, so it might not suit beginner levels or someone who aims to do light workouts. But if you're looking for strength training and want to gain muscle, we suggest you keep this machine as one of your options. 


Unlike others that offer only a phone holder, this machine comes with an iPad holder to let you enjoy watching your favorite movies on a bigger screen throughout your workout. Some people say it lacks tension unlike advertised. However, others say it's a great machine for fat burning and perfect for whole-body workouts. 


Although it makes some noise, it's not loud enough to bother neighbors. The machine is sturdy and provides a smooth motion. Moreover, it has a soft handlebar and the pedals come in a large size with adjustable straps that can fit anyone.

How to Use Your Rowing Machine Safely

How to Use Your Rowing Machine Safely

Esther says, "If you are looking to purchase a rowing machine for your personal use at home, be sure to watch and learn proper rowing technique. One of the most common injuries you will see are back injuries. Rowers are meant to be moved by using legs first, body second, and arms third. 


Proper posture is the key to optimizing your workout as long as you are aware of it and maintain good form. Be sure to speak with a health and fitness profressional, or at the very least, watch professional tutorials online to ensure that you are using your equipment properly and keeping yourself safe.


Once you've gotten used to your rower, feel free to look up some creative ways to use the sliding seat for some advanced full-body exercises such as pikes and ab rollouts."

Looking for More Home Gym Machines?

Unlike training at gyms, training at home makes you feel relaxed and is more convenient because you can do it at your own pace and at any time you want. Check out our suggestions for machines that you can add to your home gym.

Top 5 Home Gym Rowing Machines

No. 1: Concept2 Model D

No. 2: MeraxWater Rowing Machine

No. 3: Fitness Reality1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rower2636

No. 4: MaxKareWater Rowing Machine

No. 5: Sunny Health and FitnessAdjustable Resistance Rowing MachineSF-RW1205

View Full Ranking
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