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
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Stamina: 6 rowing machines
(#1 is Stamina Trac Glider 1050)
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Sunny Health & Fitness: 5 rowing machines
(#1 is Sunny Health SF-RW5515)
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WaterRower: 4 rowing machines
(#1 is WaterRower Ash)
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Concept2: 3 rowing machines
(#1 is Concept2 RowErg)
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Hydrow: 3 rowing machines
(#1 is Hydrow Rower)
Price breakdown
At a glance - January Ranking
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.
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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
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
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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.
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-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
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.
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-
|
-
|
-
|
-
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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.
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-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
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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.
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-
|
-
|
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
|
-
|
-
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7
|
-
|
-
|
-
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-
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-
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We ranked Concept2 RowErg #1 in January 2025 because:
- 7 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
- Out of those, 4 experts ranked Concept2 RowErg as #1.
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.
|
Popular Mechanics
Most Reliable
Smooth, quiet flywheel
Used by commercial fitness centers
Super durable
|
Monitor is very basic
|
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
|
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
|
Verywell Fit
Best Adjustable
Accommodates all heights
Comfortable seat
Very stable
|
Small, basic display
|
We ranked NordicTrack RW900 #2 in January 2025 because:
- 8 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
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
|
Popular Mechanics
Best Resistance Options
Large, full-color touchscreen
Membership-based group classes
Manual and air-resistance options
|
Expensive
Servicing and support questionable
|
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
|
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
|
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
|
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 ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Hydrow Rower as #1.
greatist
Best splurge
Real rowing feel, built-in speakers, large touch screen
|
Expensive, membership required
|
The Strategist
Strategist-tested: Senior writer Karen Adelsonās pick for all-in-one rowing at home
Popular Mechanics
Best "Reel Water" Feel
375-pound weight limit
Close to real-water feel
Sleek and quiet
|
Expensive
Need add-ons for storage
|
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
|
We ranked Sunny Health SF-RW5515 #4 in January 2025 because:
- 7 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
The Strategist
Strategist family poll: The rowing machine I bought my dad for Christmas
Popular Mechanics
Best Budget Pick for Tall Rowers
Portable
Long slide rail
Affordable
|
Not as durable
Small readout
|
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
|
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
|
We ranked Echelon Row-S #5 in January 2025 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
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
|
Popular Mechanics
Best Connected Class Package
Reliable brand
Smooth action
Resistance controls on handles
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Heavy
Need to pay for class membership after free trial
|
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
|
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
|
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
|
We ranked WaterRower Ash #6 in January 2025 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
greatist
Best high weight capacity
High weight capacity, easy to use, aesthetically pleasing design
|
Assembly requires power tools, resistance level difficult to change
|
Popular Mechanics
Best Water-Resistance Rowing Machine
Beautiful design
True water-based resistance
|
Not foldable
|
Business Insider
Best water resistance
Gorgeous appearance,
meditative whooshing sounds
simulation of open-water rowing sensations
|
Expensive
included monitor is fine but limited
|
We ranked Hydrow Pro Rower #7 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Hydrow Pro Rower as #1.
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
|
Verywell Fit
Best Overall
Feels like youāre rowing on water
Highly stable
High-quality video and audio system
|
On/off button is inconveniently located
|
We ranked ProForm 750R #8 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
Popular Mechanics
Best Budget-Friendly Interactive Rower
Affordable with streaming capabilities
Compact and foldable
|
Need separate device for streaming
|
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
|
We ranked Hydrow Wave #9 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
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
|
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
|
We ranked The Ergatta Rower #10 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
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
|
We ranked Peloton Row #11 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Peloton Row as #1.
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
|
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
|
We ranked Stamina Trac Glider 1050 #12 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
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
|
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
|
We ranked Peloton Row Basics #13 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
Verywell Fit
Best for Studio-Like Experience
Works well for taller people
Has cup and phone holders
Offers form improvement feedback
|
Seat isnāt very comfortable
Handlebars can be hard to reach once youāre strapped in
Peloton app membership is separate
|
We ranked MaxKare Magnetic Tension #14 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
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
|
We ranked Stamina ATS Air #15 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
Popular Mechanics
Best Budget Rowing Machine
Affordable
Durable materials
|
No manual resistance options
|
We ranked Sunny Health Obsidian Surge #16 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
Popular Mechanics
Budget-Friendly Water Rower
Affordable
Reliable fitness tracking
Smooth water feel
|
Heavy model
|
We ranked Schwinn Crewmaster #17 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their ābest rowing machinesā rankings.
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
|