January 2025

Rowing Machines: MetaRanking

This page highlights the aggregate summary of rowing machines rankings posted by key online experts, as of January 2025.

Summary

On 5 Jan 2025, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 103 rowing machine endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.

56 rowing machines were endorsed in total, only 17 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)

As of 5 Jan 2025, Concept2 RowErg takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed rowing machine with 7 expert endorsements. 4 experts out of 7 recommended it as the '#1 rowing machine' this month.

Brand breakdown
Show all brands

Price breakdown
As can be seen in the chart below, lowest high-ranking rowing machines start at $79.85 (Sunny Row-N-Ride) and go up to $3295 (Peloton Row). Median rowing machine costs $1129 (WaterRower Ash).
$79.85
$3295

At a glance - January Ranking

Scroll horizontally to browse this ranking table
Rank Change Price Rowing Machine
greatist
The Trend Spotter
The Strategist
Popular Mechanics
Healthline
SELF
CNET
Business Insider
Verywell Fit
The Home Gym
1
- Check price
Concept2 RowErg
The Concept2 RowErg is a highly regarded indoor rowing machine known for its durable build, ergonomic design, and versatile features, making it suitable for serious rowers, Olympians, CrossFit enthusiasts, and athletes at all training levels.
7
5
1
1
1
-
-
1
7
-
2
- $1187
NordicTrack RW900
The NordicTrack RW900 is a top-of-the-line smart rowing machine that offers a premium rowing experience with its wide touchscreen display, adjustable resistance levels, and immersive workout options.
3
-
4
3
6
7
-
7
10
5
3
- $1795
Hydrow Rower
The Hydrow Connected Rower is a durable and high-quality magnetic resistance rowing machine that offers a smooth and comfortable rowing experience for users of all skill levels.
2
-
3
8
-
2
-
4
-
1
4
- $197
Sunny Health SF-RW5515
The Sunny Health SF-RW5515 rowing machine is a magnetic resistance machine that offers smooth and quiet operation, adjustable resistance levels, and a compact design, making it a reliable and efficient option for users of all fitness levels.
-
14
6
2
2
3
-
3
-
12
5
- $900
Echelon Row-S
The Echelon Smart Rower is a highly praised rowing machine that combines traditional rowing features with smart technology, offering adjustable magnetic resistance, workout tracking, live classes, and a compact design.
10
-
-
9
3
-
4
-
5
9
6
- $1129
WaterRower Ash
The WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine is a highly recommended water resistance rowing machine that offers a realistic and smooth rowing experience, with customizable intensity, comfortable seating, and durable construction.
8
-
2
7
-
9
-
8
-
-
7
- $1795
Hydrow Pro Rower
-
-
-
-
-
-
2
-
1
-
8
+1 Check price
ProForm 750R
The ProForm 750R Rowing Machine is a versatile mid-range option that offers a smooth and comfortable workout experience, with adjustable resistance levels and a range of features to enhance your training.
-
4
-
4
-
-
-
-
2
-
9
+1 $1495
Hydrow Wave
The Hydrow Wave is a compact and customizable smart rowing machine that offers a realistic and comfortable rowing experience, making it ideal for individuals living in smaller spaces.
-
-
-
-
-
5
3
5
-
-
10
-2 Check price
The Ergatta Rower
Water rower that provides a realistic and enjoyable rowing experience, with adjustable resistance based on stroke intensity, a tablet display for tracking progress, and a compact design suitable for limited spaces.
-
-
-
-
-
6
-
6
-
2
11
- $3295
Peloton Row
-
-
-
-
-
-
1
9
-
-
12
- $135
Stamina Trac Glider 1050
The Stamina Trac Glider 1050 is a budget-friendly hydraulic rowing machine that offers a smooth and consistent rowing experience, with adjustable resistance levels and a compact design.
-
-
-
-
4
-
-
2
-
-
16
- Check price
Peloton Row Basics
The Peloton Row Basics Rowing Machine is a smart and durable indoor rowing machine that offers a connected fitness experience with interactive classes and features, providing a comfortable and customizable rowing experience for users of all levels.
-
-
-
-
-
4
-
-
4
-
17
- Check price
MaxKare Magnetic Tension
The MaxKare Magnetic Tension Rowing Machine is a highly regarded and compact rowing machine that offers a smooth and challenging workout experience with adjustable resistance levels.
-
-
5
-
5
-
-
-
-
-
18
- $259
Stamina ATS Air
The Stamina ATS Air Rowing Machine is a basic, compact, and foldable rowing machine that provides a smooth and effective workout with adjustable air resistance, but lacks advanced features and has mixed reviews on durability.
-
-
-
5
-
-
-
-
-
10
19
- Check price
Sunny Health Obsidian Surge
The Sunny Health Obsidian Surge is a water rowing machine that offers adjustable resistance levels, a comfortable seating experience, and a space-saving design, making it a great option for home gyms.
-
-
7
10
-
-
-
-
-
-
20
- Check price
Schwinn Crewmaster
The Schwinn Crewmaster Rowing Machine is a versatile and durable option for individuals looking to improve their fitness in a limited space.
-
18
-
-
7
-
-
-
-
-

Rowing Machine
#12 $134.99 Stamina Trac Glider 1050
#4 $197.10 Sunny Health SF-RW5515
#18 $259 Stamina ATS Air
#5 $899.99 Echelon Row-S
#6 $1129 WaterRower Ash
#2 $1186.55 NordicTrack RW900
#9 $1495 Hydrow Wave
#3 $1795 Hydrow Rower
#7 $1795 Hydrow Pro Rower
#11 $3295 Peloton Row

We ranked Concept2 RowErg #1 in January 2025 because:

  • 7 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
  • Out of those, 4 experts ranked Concept2 RowErg as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The Concept2 RowErg is a highly regarded indoor rowing machine known for its durable build, ergonomic design, and versatile features, making it suitable for serious rowers, Olympians, CrossFit enthusiasts, and athletes at all training levels.
Critic endorsements:
greatist

Best air resistance

Easy to assemble, Bluetooth connectivity

Air resistance can be noisy, resistance levels might not be tough enough for more advanced athletes.

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The Trend Spotter

Go to ranking

The Strategist

Snooping: Jason Stathamā€™s rowing machine

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Popular Mechanics

Most Reliable

Smooth, quiet flywheel
Used by commercial fitness centers
Super durable

Monitor is very basic

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Healthline

Best overall rowing machine

accommodates users of many sizes and weights up to 500 pounds
easy to assemble
two seat heights
can be separated into two parts for easy storage

needs a large footprint for use and storage
pricier than other rowing machines
requires some tech skills to operate

Go to ranking

Business Insider

Best Overall

Smooth gliding operation
Easy assembly
Taller size available to accommodate tall people
App to track workout

Requires a bit of space
Taller size costs more

Go to ranking

Verywell Fit

Best Adjustable

Accommodates all heights
Comfortable seat
Very stable

Small, basic display

Go to ranking

We ranked NordicTrack RW900 #2 in January 2025 because:

  • 8 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The NordicTrack RW900 is a top-of-the-line smart rowing machine that offers a premium rowing experience with its wide touchscreen display, adjustable resistance levels, and immersive workout options.
Critic endorsements:
greatist

Best for classes

1-year iFit membership with purchase, large touch screen, easy to store

payment required for membership after the first year (currently $396 annually), noisy air resistance

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The Strategist

Menā€™s Health editorsā€™ pick

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Popular Mechanics

Best Resistance Options

Large, full-color touchscreen
Membership-based group classes
Manual and air-resistance options

Expensive
Servicing and support questionable

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Healthline

Best high tech rowing machine

adjustable touch screen for off-rower workouts
silent magnetic resistance technology for a smooth and quiet ride
automatic resistance adjustment feature
quiet and smooth ride with upgraded flywheel and sliding rail system

requires monthly subscription to access live and on-demand classes
high sticker price
requires a large space for use and storage

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SELF

Best for Beginners

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Business Insider

Best digital resistance

Interactive workouts
26 levels of auto-adjusting resistance
Large HD touchscreen

Larger than predecessor
Does not fold up for storage

Go to ranking

Verywell Fit

Best for Cross-Training

Crisp 24-inch touchscreen
Automatic intensity level adjustment
Access to variety of workouts

Seat and handle could be wider
Must login again after a period of inactivity

Go to ranking

The Home Gym

Go to ranking

Methodology: combine opinions of key experts

Identify Experts

We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend rowing machines.

Capture Rankings

For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of rowing machines, it must be updated in the last 9 months.

Aggregate Rankings

We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking

Experts chosen for January 2025 ranking

We ranked Hydrow Rower #3 in January 2025 because:

  • 6 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Hydrow Rower as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The Hydrow Connected Rower is a durable and high-quality magnetic resistance rowing machine that offers a smooth and comfortable rowing experience for users of all skill levels.
Critic endorsements:
greatist

Best splurge

Real rowing feel, built-in speakers, large touch screen

Expensive, membership required

Go to ranking

The Strategist

Strategist-tested: Senior writer Karen Adelsonā€™s pick for all-in-one rowing at home

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Popular Mechanics

Best "Reel Water" Feel

375-pound weight limit
Close to real-water feel
Sleek and quiet

Expensive
Need add-ons for storage

Go to ranking

SELF

Best for Classes

Go to ranking

Business Insider

Best smart

Extensive library of motivating classes and rowing events
Delivers a full-body workout
Quiet, electromagnetic resistance

Expensive
Classes require monthly subscription

Go to ranking

The Home Gym

Go to ranking

We ranked Sunny Health SF-RW5515 #4 in January 2025 because:

  • 7 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The Sunny Health SF-RW5515 rowing machine is a magnetic resistance machine that offers smooth and quiet operation, adjustable resistance levels, and a compact design, making it a reliable and efficient option for users of all fitness levels.
Critic endorsements:
The Trend Spotter

Go to ranking

The Strategist

Strategist family poll: The rowing machine I bought my dad for Christmas

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Popular Mechanics

Best Budget Pick for Tall Rowers

Portable
Long slide rail
Affordable

Not as durable
Small readout

Go to ranking

Healthline

Best budget rowing machine

affordable sticker price for a quality, entry-level rower
eight resistance levels
extra-long slide rail to accommodate various body sizes
wheels for easy transport

may not be suitable for larger bodies
louder than other rowers
might not be challenging enough for very advanced users

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SELF

Best Foldable Rower

Go to ranking

Business Insider

Best for beginners

Economical with eight levels of resistance
Easy to fold and store

Not the best cord quality
Rail might be too short for tall people

Go to ranking

The Home Gym

Go to ranking

We ranked Echelon Row-S #5 in January 2025 because:

  • 6 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The Echelon Smart Rower is a highly praised rowing machine that combines traditional rowing features with smart technology, offering adjustable magnetic resistance, workout tracking, live classes, and a compact design.
Critic endorsements:
greatist

Best magnetic resistance

Quiet, access to rowing and nonrowing classes with app subscription

Extra cost for app subscription, need to use your own tablet or smartphone

Go to ranking

Popular Mechanics

Best Connected Class Package

Reliable brand
Smooth action
Resistance controls on handles

Heavy
Need to pay for class membership after free trial

Go to ranking

Healthline

Best rowing machine with adjustable resistance levels

180-degree screen rotation for off-equipment training
foldable for easy storage
easy-glide seat
32 magnetic resistance levels

high sticker price
monthly subscription required to access live and on-demand classes
requires a large space

Go to ranking

CNET

Best Foldable Rowing Machine

Light and easy to use if you've never rowed before
Versatile for people of various weights and heights
Easy to store upright

Plastic design looks like it may not be the most durable
Function is limited if you don't sign up for Echelon class membership
Warranty only lasts for a year

Go to ranking

Verywell Fit

Best for Beginners

Scenic workouts
Rotatable monitor for workouts off the rower
Very stable

Difficult to assemble
Resistance buttons are on the handlebar, which can be inconvenient

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The Home Gym

Go to ranking

We ranked WaterRower Ash #6 in January 2025 because:

  • 5 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine is a highly recommended water resistance rowing machine that offers a realistic and smooth rowing experience, with customizable intensity, comfortable seating, and durable construction.
Critic endorsements:
greatist

Best high weight capacity

High weight capacity, easy to use, aesthetically pleasing design

Assembly requires power tools, resistance level difficult to change

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The Strategist

Expert-approved: A Pilates instructorā€™s favorite rowing machine

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Popular Mechanics

Best Water-Resistance Rowing Machine

Beautiful design
True water-based resistance

Not foldable

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SELF

Best Water Resistance

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Business Insider

Best water resistance

Gorgeous appearance,
meditative whooshing sounds
simulation of open-water rowing sensations

Expensive
included monitor is fine but limited

Go to ranking

We ranked Hydrow Pro Rower #7 in January 2025 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Hydrow Pro Rower as #1.
Critic endorsements:
CNET

Best Luxury Rowing Machiine

High-end rower with a smooth ride
Easy to assemble on your own
Well built

Expensive
Bigger than standard rowing machine, won't fit all spaces
You have to pay extra for the anchor that stores it upright

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Verywell Fit

Best Overall

Feels like youā€™re rowing on water
Highly stable
High-quality video and audio system

On/off button is inconveniently located

Go to ranking

We ranked ProForm 750R #8 in January 2025 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The ProForm 750R Rowing Machine is a versatile mid-range option that offers a smooth and comfortable workout experience, with adjustable resistance levels and a range of features to enhance your training.
Critic endorsements:
The Trend Spotter

Go to ranking

Popular Mechanics

Best Budget-Friendly Interactive Rower

Affordable with streaming capabilities
Compact and foldable

Need separate device for streaming

Go to ranking

Verywell Fit

Best Value

Handlebar position promotes good rowing form
Includes a 30-day free trial of the app
Foldable and compact design

Requires app for automatic resistance change
Footrests feel low-quality

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We ranked Hydrow Wave #9 in January 2025 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The Hydrow Wave is a compact and customizable smart rowing machine that offers a realistic and comfortable rowing experience, making it ideal for individuals living in smaller spaces.
Critic endorsements:
SELF

Best for Small Spaces

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CNET

Best Rowing Machine For Smaller Spaces

Small enough to fit in an apartment
Same great features as the original rower
$600 cheaper than the Hydrow

No new upgrades, except for size
Vertical storage kit still not included

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Business Insider

Best budget smart

Extensive library of streaming classes
Incredibly smooth rowing
Closely simulates the on-water experience
Very quiet when in use
Tons of helpful safety features

Smaller screen than the Hydrow Pro and it's not adjustable
Color versions cost more

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We ranked The Ergatta Rower #10 in January 2025 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The Ergatta Rower is a water rower that provides a realistic and enjoyable rowing experience, with adjustable resistance based on stroke intensity, a tablet display for tracking progress, and a compact design suitable for limited spaces.
Critic endorsements:
SELF

Best Aesthetics

Go to ranking

Business Insider

Best interactive

Motivating video game-inspired workout platform
beautiful design
features a folding design for easy stowing

Expensive
Touchscreen is on the smaller side

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The Home Gym

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We ranked Peloton Row #11 in January 2025 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Peloton Row as #1.
Critic endorsements:
CNET

Best Overall Rowing Machine

Quiet
Form Assist teaches you how to row and improves form
Easy to operate if you're familiar with Peloton programs
Foot straps are easy to slip on and off

Expensive
Large and may not fit all spaces

Go to ranking

Business Insider

Best With Classes

Interactive, motivating, instructor-led classes
Premium design
Swiveling screen for on-floor workouts
Screen can play other media besides classes
Includes wall anchor for easy storage

Expensive
Requires monthly subscription cost to access classes and Peloton content

Go to ranking

We ranked Stamina Trac Glider 1050 #12 in January 2025 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The Stamina Trac Glider 1050 is a budget-friendly hydraulic rowing machine that offers a smooth and consistent rowing experience, with adjustable resistance levels and a compact design.
Critic endorsements:
Healthline

Best rowing machine for small spaces

good size for apartments and small rooms
very low price
foldable for simple storage
low tech for easy use

limited warranty
can be cumbersome to operate
might be too basic for advanced fitness levels

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Business Insider

Best Budget

Inexpensive for a rower
Independent arms for a full range of movement
Easy to assemble

Resistance declines as the piston heats up during long rowing sessions
Short warranty (90 days for parts, 1 year for frame)
No smart function or app support

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We ranked Peloton Row Basics #13 in January 2025 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 22 Nov 2023)
The Peloton Row Basics Rowing Machine is a smart and durable indoor rowing machine that offers a connected fitness experience with interactive classes and features, providing a comfortable and customizable rowing experience for users of all levels.
Critic endorsements:
SELF

Best for Technique

Go to ranking

Verywell Fit

Best for Studio-Like Experience

Works well for taller people
Has cup and phone holders
Offers form improvement feedback

Seat isnā€™t very comfortable
Handlebars can be hard to reach once youā€™re strapped in
Peloton app membership is separate

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We ranked MaxKare Magnetic Tension #14 in January 2025 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The MaxKare Magnetic Tension Rowing Machine is a highly regarded and compact rowing machine that offers a smooth and challenging workout experience with adjustable resistance levels.
Critic endorsements:
The Strategist

Self editorsā€™ pick

Go to ranking

Healthline

Best rowing machine for beginners

foldable for simple storage
large cushioned seat
affordable entry-level rower

might be too low tech for advanced users
maximum user weight of only 245 pounds
only 16 resistance levels

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We ranked Stamina ATS Air #15 in January 2025 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The Stamina ATS Air Rowing Machine is a basic, compact, and foldable rowing machine that provides a smooth and effective workout with adjustable air resistance, but lacks advanced features and has mixed reviews on durability.
Critic endorsements:
Popular Mechanics

Best Budget Rowing Machine

Affordable
Durable materials

No manual resistance options

Go to ranking

The Home Gym

Go to ranking

We ranked Sunny Health Obsidian Surge #16 in January 2025 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 31 Aug 2023)
The Sunny Health Obsidian Surge is a water rowing machine that offers adjustable resistance levels, a comfortable seating experience, and a space-saving design, making it a great option for home gyms.
Critic endorsements:
The Strategist

Peopleā€™s Choice: Best water rowing machine on Amazon

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Popular Mechanics

Budget-Friendly Water Rower

Affordable
Reliable fitness tracking
Smooth water feel

Heavy model

Go to ranking

We ranked Schwinn Crewmaster #17 in January 2025 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ā€œbest rowing machinesā€ rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 1 Sep 2023)
The Schwinn Crewmaster Rowing Machine is a versatile and durable option for individuals looking to improve their fitness in a limited space.
Critic endorsements:
The Trend Spotter

Go to ranking

Healthline

Best rowing machine with an oversized seat

foldable for easy storage
affordable sticker price for an entry-level rower
adjustable LCD screen

only 10 resistance levels
maximum user weight of 300 pounds
not Bluetooth-enabled

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