Best Rowing Machine Reviews 2020 – Simply put, rowing is the most efficient means of cardio workout that you can do, it will help you shed those extra pounds while building a better body, but you can’t do it without going to the gym.
With lots of innovation made in this field, there are wide varieties of indoor rowing machines available, ensuring that you don’t have to spill huge amounts on the gym membership.
To get more specific, we have done our extensive research on several indoor rowing machine models of different brands and types. If you are just starting your investigation, you might want to read out buying guide review for rowing machines. Here are our top picks for you.
10 Best Rowing Machine Reviews 2020
Simply put, rowing is the most efficient means of cardio workout that you can do, it will help you shed those extra pounds while building a better body, but you can’t do it without going to the gym. With lots of innovation made in this field, there are wide varieties of indoor rowing machines available, ensuring that you don’t have to spill huge amounts on the gym membership.
To get more specific, we have done our extensive research on several indoor rowing machine models of different brands and types. If you are just starting your investigation, you might want to read out buying guide review for rowing machines. Here are our top picks for you.
#01 – Concept2 Model D Indoor Home Rowing Machine
- Low impact workout that engages all major muscle groups; work legs, core and arms with a smooth, high calorie-burning motion
- Track your progress with real-time reliable data; the Performance Monitor 5 (included) self-calibrates for comparable results; connect wirelessly to heart rate belts and apps (not included)
- Designed to fit most users: 14-inch seat height, adjustable footrests and ergonomic handle
- Separates easily into two pieces for storage; caster wheels make it mobile; easy to assemble with only eight screws. Space Recommendations- Assembled- 8 ft x 2 ft (244 cm x 61 cm). For Storage- 25 in x 33 in x 54 in (63.5 cm x 83.8 cm x 137.2 cm)
- Space recommended for use is 9 x 4 feet; 500-pound user capacity; 5-year frame warranty included.Seat Height:14 inches.Users with an inseam of 38 inches (96.5 cm) or more may require an extra-long monorail
The Concept2 Model D indoor home rowing machine comes with a PM5 monitor and boasts everything you want for a powerful complete body workout no matter if you are just beginning rowing or doing it for some time at the gym. The rower’s flywheel is designed to ensure quiet row and its frame can be easily separated into two pieces ensuring easy storage.
Those with compact space or living in an apartment building could avail the benefits of rowing with this top-quality rower as it can be de-assembled into two separate pieces for easy storage.
1. Dependable performance and design
Concept2 Model D is a well-designed, properly balanced, and satisfying piece of training equipment in almost all its features. What’s best about this model is that it features a strong frame that can handle demanding workouts and deliver powerful performance. In terms of size and design, Concept2 Model D is compact making it easily be a part of any home environment.
1. PM5 Monitor
Concept2 Model D’s PM5 monitor is deceivingly simple and makes exercising a better experience. The PM5 monitor is the equipment’s workhouse device that has a pulse meter, shows you the distance covered, calories burned, heart rate, and strokes per minute. Simply press ‘just row’ and you are off to the most fun exercise.
* Separates into two pieces for easy storage
* Power method: battery
* Adjustable monitor
* Caster wheels for easy transportation
* Quick-release frame lock
* Flexfoot footrests
* Fan engineered to minimize noise
* Ergonomic handle
* Spiral Damper and Flywheel for adjustable resistance
* PM5 Monitor Features
* Heart Rate
* Pulse Meter
* Calories Burned
* Distance Covered
* Strokes Per Minute (SPM)
* LogCard and USB cable to connect the PM5 to a computer and access LogCard data
* Aluminum rail topped with stainless steel track for smooth seat movement
* State-of-the-art PM5 Performance Monitor intended for precise and comprehensive training feedback
* Expensive
* Dimensions
* Width: 14 inches
* Length: 96 inches
* Height: 24 inches
* Warranty
* 2 years parts warranty
* 5 years frame warranty
It is one of the most reliable and modern pieces of exercise equipment out there. The Concept2 Model D is one of the best rowers in the market and makes for a solid investment.
#02 – Water Rower Club Rowing Machine in Ash Wood with S4 Monitor
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Water Rower Club Rowing Machine is a great exercise equipment to achieve great results. Whether you want a workout that will just keep you fit or an intense workout to tone your physique, this water-resistance Rower Club Rowing Machine offers a variety of programs to the trainers. Its built and design are such that it can satisfy any training needs. From beginner to veteran rowers, this indoor rowing machine has the design and durability to keep you fit for decades to come.
Perfect for home use, this strikingly beautiful rowing machine is perfect for the adults in your home like your mom and dad or even grandparents because this is not a heavy-duty rower and can satisfy adult-exercising needs.
1. Natural rowing machine
Water Rower Club Rowing Machine makes a solid investment for the money. This next-level indoor rowing machine adds to the aesthetics of the environment you have placed it in. This piece of rowing equipment is a fresh and inspiring rower that combines durability with elegance. At the same time, this rowing machine is capable of delivering a workout you want – from beginner to intense. The rower’s flywheel guarantees dynamic resistance; therefore, you can choose the level of intensity according to your fitness levels.
1. Handcrafted in Ash Wood
Water Rower Club Rowing Machine has an aesthetically pleasing design thanks to the material used. As it is composed of Ash Wood, it gives a smooth and noiseless workout experience. The construction of the rower’s mechanism and the design of its frame are such that the trainer has a safe, smooth, and powerful rowing session all in one.
* Ergonomic Saddle
* 15’’ Ergonomic Handle
* Water Flywheel
* Honey Oak Stain finished in Danish Oil
* American Ash Wood Frame
* S4 Monitor Features
* LCD S4 Performance Monitor
* Workout Duration
* Distance Covered
* Calories Burned
* Heart Rate
* Stroke Rate
* Miles per Hour
* Intensity in m/s
* Dual Rail Design
* Polar Compatible
* Expensive
* The ash wood frame gets bonus point for elegance but the wood may start to wear out if not given proper care
* Length: 84 inches
* Width: 22 inches
* Height: 21 inches
* Warranty
* 3 years parts warranty
* 5 years frame warranty
#03 – Stamina ATS Air Rower
- Versatile fitness: rowing is widely known as a powerful, full-body workout solution and helps tone muscle, improve heart health and burn fat
- Dynamic air resistance: Simple fan-powered cage makes for fun, intuitive movement – pull harder for more resistance, ease off for less
- Lcd multi-function monitor: Track your speed, distance, time and calories burned while rowing on large, easy-to-read LCD display
- Comfort and Convenience: includes foam padded, smooth-sliding seat, large footplates with adjustable straps and a durable rowing cord
- Built-in wheels: folding frame with built-in wheels measures 78 inches by 31.5 inches by 19.75 inches (Width by height by depth) and supports users up to 250 pounds
Due to its steel frame and sturdy construction, this amazing rowing machine is best-suited for tall people. Its big footpads can accommodate any shoe size.
1. Air/Wind Resistance
Wind/air resistance is one of the best and slickest kinds of resistance you can find. Bring this indoor rowing machine home and you will be getting a top-notch full body workout at home, sculpting your lower and upper body and that too in a low-impact way. This is because the harder you work out, the more resistance is generated, and hence, kicking up your workout intensity becomes easy. It is a different feel from water or magnetic resistance, but after several usages, people get the hang of it.
1. Easy Storage
Because of the rower’s excellent compact dimensions, and because its frame can be folded, Stamina ATS Air Rower can be easily stored anywhere in your home. Unless you have a home gym, you don’t want your rower covering your living room space.
* Built-in Wheels
* Floor Protectors
* LCD Display
* Large Foot Pads
* Steel Frame
* Upholstered Seat
* Wind Resistance
* Monitor Features
* Speed
* Calories Burned
* Distance Covered
* Time
* Ease of use
* Ease of storage
* A bit louder than other counterparts
* Dimensions
* Length: 77 inches
* Width: 18 inches
* Height: 22 inches
* Folded Dimensions
* Length: 28 inches
* Width: 18 inches
* Height: 48 inches
* Warranty
* 90-days parts warranty
* 3 years frame warranty
This exceptionally designed and inexpensive air-resistance machine boasts comfortable seats, a nice monitor, and above all, offers seamless rowing.
#04 – Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine with LCD Monitor by SF-RW5515
- DIGITAL MONITOR - The large LCD console displays time, count, calories, total count, Scan. The convenient scan mode displays your progress to assist you in tracking all your fitness goals
- EXTRA LONG SLIDE RAIL - At 48 inches in slide rail length and 44 inches in inseam length, the SF-RW5515 can accommodate rowers of nearly any size.
- ADJUSTABLE RESISTANCE - With a simple twist, you can increase or decrease the 8 levels of resistance, so your workout can remain challenging and effective throughout your fitness journey.
- TRANSPORTATION WHEELS - Built in transportation wheels for easy portability. Simply tilt and roll out for use or away for storage, no need for heavy lifting or muscle strain. Folded Dimensions: 37L X 19W X 53. 5H inches
- NON-SLIP FOOT PEDALS - Textured non-slip foot pedals will ensure safe footing during the most demanding and vigorous workouts! Foot straps keep your feet saddled in so you can focus on the workout without feeling unbalanced
Those who are looking for a budget indoor rowing machine, you may want to consider this rowing machine from Sunny Health & Fitness. This is a hydraulic resistance rowing machine designed primarily for the beginners; however, it gives the users a surprisingly effective workout experience. The best part is that this rowing machine comes pre-assembled, meaning it comes ready-to-use. The rower’s thick padding will accommodate those whose bodies aren’t habituated to more challenging low-impact workout.
This rowing machine is for those who are under budget and don’t want to spend too much on an exercise equipment. This is a great rower, economically speaking, but also boasts all the features and functionalities of a high-end rower.
With a simple twist, the user can decrease or increase the resistance. This means that your workout can remain demanding and effective throughout your fitness journey. The rower offers eight resistance levels, perfect for beginners.
1. Non-slip Foot Pedals
The rower’s textured non-slip foot pedals ensure safe footing during the most vigorous and demanding workouts. The pedals come with foot straps that keep your feet saddled so that you can focus on your workout.
* Hydraulic Resistance
* LCD Display
* Foam Grip Handlebars
* Non-Slip Foot Pedals
* Transportation Wheels
* Monitor Features-
* Time
* Total Count
* Calories
* Scan
* Adjustable Resistance – 8 Levels Of Adjustable Resistance
* The resistance offered is not up to the mark
* Length: 53 inches
* Width: 20 inches
* Height: 21 inches
* Warranty
* 90-days parts warranty
* 1-year frame warranty
This is the best economic rower people with limited budget can avail. It best-suitable for beginners who are new to this type of cardio workout.
#05 – Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rowing Machine
- 12 workout programs including 6 cardio Profiles, 1 Manual, 4 Custom user programs and 1 Heart rate program
- Fitness monitor keeps you motivated by tracking time, count, distance, calories, strokes per minute, pulse and watt
- Use the up and down arrows on the In Touch Fitness Monitor to adjust workout time and resistance on the fly
- LCD backlit fitness monitor
- Extruded aluminum rowing beam
If you are looking for a rowing machine that focuses on total body workout and helps build stamina, then Stamina Avari Programmable rowing machine is a perfect option to go with. This indoor rowing machine has magnetic resistance system that uses controlled levels of resistance, a smooth braking system, and is known for its quiet and smooth operation. The exercise equipment has a sturdy construction boasting stainless steel frame with aluminum beam and durable nylon pulleys.
It is a low-impact workout machine making the workout session more comfortable. So anyone who is not a regular or finds it hard to take time for a decent workout, this is a suitable machine because they will not find their muscles soaring when they decide to use the machine irregularly due to its low-impact features.
Stamina Avari magnetic rower is composed of a sturdy aluminum rail providing a stable rowing motion. The center of gravity of this rowing machine is extremely low which keeps the machine stable during intense workouts. The rowing motion provides a realistic experience and will keep you on the machine for extended workouts.
1. In-Touch Fitness Monitor
The machine’s In-Touch Fitness Monitor comes pre-equipped with 12-programmed workouts for different fitness levels. The workouts stimulate mountains, ramps, valleys, rolling hills, and more.
* LCD Backlit Fitness Monitor
* Magnetic Resistance
* Extruded aluminum rowing beam
* Foldable
* Monitor Features
* Tracking Time
* Count
* Calories
* Strokes per minute
* Distance
* Pulse and Watt
* 12 workout programs:
* Four User Defined Modes
* Target Heart Rate Mode
* Interval Mode
* Mountain Mode
* Ramp Mode
* Fat Burn Mode
* Valley Mode
* Rolling Hills Mode
* Manual Mode
* Length: 81 inches
* Width: 20 inches
* Height: 24.5 inches
* Folded Dimensions
* Length: 36 inches
* Width: 20 inches
* Height: 53.5 inches
* Warranty
* 90-days parts warranty
* 3 years frame warranty
This low-impact rowing machine can help you burn those extra calories and maintain a decent physique all at the comfort of your home.
#06 – Merax Water Rowing Machine – Fitness Indoor Water Rower with LCD Monitor Home Gym Equipment
- 【Stronger Resistance Adjustment】Sleek and elegant in design with the dashing blue, Merax water rower is highly refined with solid steel construction for steady performance and durability, which supports up to 330 LBS. Unique inclined water tank ensures more powerful resistance compared to others in flat position. Get a more effective aerobic workout and your cardio health on the upswing.
- 【Quiet & Smooth Rowing】Merax water rowing machine provides a soothing glide which mimics the dynamic rowing movements across the real water. You can enjoy the relaxing sound of water splashing inside the aqua blue water tank or stream your favorite show without turning the volume too high.
- 【Multi-Feature Monitor】The large LCD monitor accurately displays your rowing intensity in duration, strokes, calories, distance, and heart rate. Quick start and stop options allow you to start rowing workouts in a single button push. The exciting part is you can challenge yourself under the competitive race mode and get on an intense rowing competition.
- 【Customized Rowing Experience】Fill the water tank to desired water level resistances to adjust resistances with funnel and pumping siphon(included). 19” long ergonomic handle to maximize your rowing performance. 12.5” x 10” contoured seat molded for comfort during your long-time rowing workouts. 12” long footrest with fully adjustable Velcro strap, securely pivot with your feet during intense rowing.
- 【Space Saver Equipment】A compact foot print with built-in wheels allow for easy rolling in/out of your room for convenient storage. Merax Water Rower Dimensions: 78” x 20” x 25.5”, Slide rail length: 43.3 inch
This water rowing machine is within the mid-range price.
∙ Ergonomic Design
∙ Compact Footprint
∙ Multi-Feature Monitor
∙ Strong Water Resistance
∙ Blocks the extra movements
∙ Less credibility developed because the product right now has fewer purchases
Even though there isn’t information available due to fewer sales, but you are open to exploring the product by purchasing if you find this suitable for yourself.
#07 – Goplus Magnetic Rowing Machine Folding Rower with LCD Display and Adjustable Resistance Exercise Cardio Fitness Equipment
- 【Durable and Comfortable Material】Our rowing machine uses high-quality aluminum beam, with better hardness and thickness than regular ones. Besides, it can be used for a long term without leaving any traces. Six wheels inside provides smooth and quiet rowing experience for you.
- 【Adjustable Resistance and Foot Straps】Magnetic tension system with 8 levels of adjustable resistance, and the large anti-slip foot pedals with adjustable foot straps, it is suitable for different people to exercise with different degrees.
- 【Clear LCD Display】Goplus Magnetic Rowing Machine equipped with a large LCD screen, which displays total count, calories, count per min, count, scan and time. It can ensure you stay focused when your workout. In addition, with the fully padded seat and non-slip grip handlebars, it makes you comfortable when exercise.
- 【Easy to Use and Move】Simple operation for you to use it easily. With the built in wheels, it is easy to move and transport. You could both use it in home and other places. A good trainer for excellent and professional indoor exercise.
- 【Full Body Exercise】Use it for an effective aerobic workout. It can not only exercise your muscles, but also could burns fat to lose weight. You can exercise different parts of your body with one tool.
It is an Amazon Choice product available at a decent price with significant features of a rowing machine.
∙ Durable and Comfortable Material
∙ Easy to use and move
∙ Large LCD Console Displays
∙ Adjustable Resistance and Foot Straps
∙ Bar and strap are placed too low
∙ Velcro straps are of very poor quality
The Verdict – Its credibility can be derived from the fact that it has been chosen for Amazon’s Choice list; however, it still stays disputable because the product still has to enter its growth phase which it hasn’t through its gross sales.
#08 – Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5639 Full Motion Rowing Machine Rower w/ 350 lb Weight Capacity and LCD Monitor
- Extended weight capacity of 350 lbs
- 12 Levels of adjustable resistance and LCD digital displays-scan, time, count, calorie, total count
- Full motion arms allows for larger range of motions for the shoulders
- Fully padded seat and non-slip grip handlebars provide optimal comfort and support
- Large anti-slip foot pedals with adjustable foot straps for secure footing
The product aims to offer a good quality product, especially regarding resistance levels at a very nominal cost.
∙ Extended weight capacity of 350 lbs
∙ 12 Levels of adjustable resistance and LCD digital displays-scan, time, count, calorie, total count
∙ Full-motion arms allow for a larger range of motions for the shoulders
∙ Fully padded seat and non-slip grip handlebars provide optimal comfort and support
∙ Large anti-slip foot pedals with adjustable foot straps for secure footing
∙ Rower not for physically strong people
∙ Requires bigger heel cups
∙ It doesn’t provide enough resistance challenge
∙ It’s only good for at a price it is offered
The Verdict – 50 % reviews of this product are 5 stars which mean other than some poorly manufactured machines, the good product hails.
#09 – Lifecore R100 Commercial Rowing Machine
- Commercial-grade, folding rowing machine with 16 levels of magnetic resistance
- 15 preset programs and 4 heart rate control programs compatible with Polar HRM products
- Ergonomically designed seat and handles; angled footrests with pivoting heel supports
- Measures 92 x 19 x 36 inches unfolded; 600-pound weight capacity
- Warranty: 5 years parts/1 year labor for residential; 2 years parts/1 year labor for light commercial; 1 year parts for full commercial
At a price it is being offered it directly comes in the competition with the Concept2 Model E. And that seems interesting, let’s find out what this rowing machine can offer.
∙ Commercial-grade, folding rowing machine with 16 levels of magnetic resistance
∙ 15 preset programs and 4 heart rate control programs compatible with Polar HRM products
∙ Ergonomically designed seat and handles; angled footrests with pivoting heel supports
∙ Measures 92 x 19 x 36 inches unfolded; 600-pound weight capacity
∙ Warranty: 5 years parts/1 year labor for residential; 2 years parts/1 year labor for light commercial; 1-year parts for full commercial
∙ An interactive display could have been appreciated
∙ The rower is for tall people
∙ Critical reviews of the machine reveal that Model E would beat this product any day in comparison with the overall quality
The Verdict – The products tagged at this price should be worth at least the quality assurance, but this product doesn’t seem to deliver that.
#10 – Merax Magnetic Exercise Rower Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine (BK)
- 【Various Workout Equipment-8 Levels of Resistance 】Switch up the intensity of your rowing workout with the convenient 8 levels of adjustable resistance tension knob. With a simple twist, you can increase or decrease resistance so your rower workout can remain challenging and effective throughout your rowing fitness journey.
- 【 Extra Padding & Rotary Design-Fully Padded Seat&Multi-angle Rotary Footplates 】A sliding, extra padded and upholstered seat to support your bottom and back, ensure proper blood flow in the glutes for prolonged and vigorous rowing workouts. Large strapping footplates that are suitable for users of different sizes provide optimal comfort and support on this indoor rowing machine.
- 【Track Your Workout-Large LCD Display 】With convenient LCD monitor that displays your Time, Count, Calories, Total Count, you will be able to track your progress and modify your current routine appropriately and keep you further motivated and aim for improvement.
- 【Comfortable and Silence-15 Degree Angled Seat Rail& Built-in Megnetic Flywheel】The 15 degree angled seat rail makes your seat return smooth and efficient so that you can get the most out of your rowing session. Built-in megnetic flywheel minimizes noise while maximizing a smooth feel during exercise process on this air rowing machine.
- 【Durability&Portability-Folding Frame& Built-in Wheels】Equipped with built-in wheels and a foldable frame, this rowing machine for home aims at easy transport and storage. Merax rowing machine assembled dimensions: 73 L x 16 W x 21 H inches; Folded: 26 L x 16 W x 49 H inches; Weight Capacity: 264 lbs. Slide rail length: 43.3 inch
This is Meraki’s another range of rowing machine where the aim is to sell a rowing machine at an affordable price with all the necessary features with the assurance of quality.
∙ Large LCD
∙ 8 Levels of Resistance
∙ Seat Padding for Prolonged Comfort
∙ Rotary Foot Pedal
∙ Too Jerky for the initial pull
∙ Plastic parts are not good on the grip
∙ More features could have been added
The Verdict – The product can be worth a try looking at the price and the brand’s name.
Final Words
So these were our top picks for best indoor rowing machines 2020. The mentioned rowing equipment provides one of the best workouts possible. Working out on one of these rowers will allow you to target a great majority of muscle groups. Overall, the best rowing machine is the one that fits your body and obviously your budget.
My pick is Stamina ATS Air Rower, it’s in my budget and specifications match my needs. And, added warranty just lures me. Thanks for the assistance. I am all set
Superb Molly!
Stamina ATS Air Rower indeed is a wise selection. Warranty for sure will cover you up till late future.
Good Luck.
I really feel awesome with Rowing machine.
Rowing machines one of the best workouts possible. Exercising on a rower will allow you to target the great majority of your muscle groups and give them as hard and challenging a workout as you feel like giving them.
It’s excellent
I use the rowing machine before two months it’s really awesome for exercise, Weight loss, and live fit. I have a really excellent experience with a rowing machine.
The rowing machine is the most efficient for the cardio workout that you can do, it will help you shed those extra pounds while building a better body, but you can’t do it without going to the gym. But nowadays it’s available for the home that one also really good experience out of Gym.
Actually, a rowing machine is great for both cardio and bodybuilding. It just depends on the routine you employ. If you increase the intensity of your workouts and use high-intensity routines, you are bound to get stronger muscles.
The best thing about a rowing machine is that it targets both your upper body muscles and lower body muscles at the same time hence you stand a chance of working your entire body.
A rowing machine is not enough to make you huge or bulky as it works your lean muscles. This is because of the high number of reps performed when rowing whereas, for bodybuilding, you will require more weight with fewer reps.
The rowing machine enables you to work your cardiovascular muscles hence making it a great equipment for cardio.
Who wants really fit they must use the rowing machine.
The best solution for people who are either too tall or too short is to buy the rowing machine at a physical shop as opposed to online so that it may be easy to assess if the machine is good for you or not. The rowing machine is really very nice for exercise.
Rowing machines have advanced greatly such that they come with wheels for easy moving. So it’s very comfortable for the home you can use it easily.
The number of calories you are bound to burn while rowing is dependent on the workout routine you are going to employ. Intense workouts tend to burn more calories but on average.
Thanks a lot, mate for such a wonderful, well researched and informative article on Rowing Machines. Can you please tell me more about Stamina ATS Air Rower and Stamina Avari Programmable Magnetic Exercise Rowing Machine with there reviews and pricing? I would really love if you give me a reply as I am about to buy a one.
Very informative article…You have listed the best Rowing Machine in your top 5 lists great work done. Can you please increase the count from top 5 top 10 as there are a lot of other Rowing Machines missing who’s reviews I want.
Each thing explained so well. thanx, buddy. I also want to buy Rowing Machine. This article gives me a good head start for my search.
Apart from being expensive what are the other cons of Concept 2 Model D Indoor Home Rowing Machine? As I’m planning to get one for myself.
I was wondering how to buy a Rowing Machine before this Christmas. I google and found this site thegymguides.com and to my surprise, this is the best site I could ever go through for buying the best Rowing Machines The articles are deep and contain everything you need to know before buying a Rowing Machine. Thanks mate, for such a wonderful work. I will surely recommend your work to others.