November 2023
Rowing Machines: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of rowing machines rankings posted by key online experts, as of November 2023.
Summary
On 10 Nov 2023, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 108 rowing machine endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
49 rowing machines were endorsed in total, only 20 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 10 Nov 2023, Concept2 RowErg takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed rowing machine with 8 expert endorsements. 4 experts out of 8 recommended it as the '#1 rowing machine' this month.
Brand breakdown
-
Sunny Health & Fitness: 6 rowing machines
(#1 is Sunny Health SF-RW5515)
-
Stamina: 6 rowing machines
(#1 is Stamina ATS Air)
-
WaterRower: 4 rowing machines
(#1 is WaterRower Ash)
-
Concept2: 3 rowing machines
(#1 is Concept2 RowErg)
-
Hydrow: 2 rowing machines
(#1 is Hydrow Wave)
Price breakdown
At a glance - November Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Rowing Machine |
SELF
|
Verywell Fit
|
HiConsumption
|
The Trend Spotter
|
Healthline
|
Popular Mechanics
|
The Strategist
|
The Home Gym
|
greatist
|
Business Insider
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
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.
|
-
|
2
|
4
|
5
|
1
|
1
|
1
|
-
|
7
|
1
|
|
2
|
- | $2495 |
Hydrow Wave
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.
|
1
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
3
|
1
|
2
|
4
|
|
3
|
- | $1100 |
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.
|
7
|
11
|
7
|
-
|
6
|
3
|
4
|
5
|
3
|
6
|
|
4
|
- | $240 |
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.
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
14
|
2
|
2
|
6
|
12
|
-
|
8
|
|
5
|
- | $1000 |
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.
|
5
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
9
|
-
|
9
|
10
|
-
|
|
6
|
- | 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
|
10
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
3
|
|
7
|
- | $1289 |
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.
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
2
|
-
|
8
|
7
|
|
8
|
- | $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.
|
-
|
12
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
|
9
|
- | $120 |
Sunny Health SF-RW5639
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5639 Rowing Machine is a versatile and durable option that provides a comprehensive cardiovascular and strength training exercise, with adjustable resistance levels, comfortable seating, and the ability to track and monitor workout data.
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
10
|
- | $520 |
Velocity Exercise
The Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower is a highly recommended rowing machine that offers a smooth and comfortable workout experience, with adjustable resistance levels, a quiet operation, and a comprehensive fitness monitor.
|
-
|
4
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
|
11
|
- | $1200 |
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.
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
4
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
12
|
- | 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.
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
13
|
- | $380 |
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
7
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
|
14
|
- | $150 |
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
|
|
17
|
- | $83 |
Sunny Row-N-Ride
The Sunny Row-N-Ride Rowing Machine is a versatile and compact exercise machine that combines rowing and squat exercises, providing a challenging lower body workout and the ability to tone and lift the butt.
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
|
18
|
- | 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
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
19
|
- | $740 |
Stamina Conversion II
The Stamina Conversion II Rowing Machine is a versatile and space-saving exercise machine that combines rowing and cycling, with adjustable resistance levels and comprehensive workout data tracking, making it a popular choice for users seeking a comprehensive and enjoyable workout.
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
|
20
|
- | $1695 |
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.
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
|
21
|
- | $1689 |
WaterRower Classic S4
The WaterRower Classic S4 is a highly recommended rowing machine that provides a smooth and realistic rowing experience, with its patented water flywheel design and durable construction.
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
22
|
- | 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
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
We ranked Concept2 RowErg #1 in November 2023 because:
- 8 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
- Out of those, 4 experts ranked Concept2 RowErg as #1.
Verywell Fit
Best Overall Runner-Up
|
High maximum weight capacity at 500 lbs
Easy to assemble
Has a performance monitor to display user data
|
Expensive
|
HiConsumption
Best Overall
|
500-pound weight limit
Stores easily by splitting in half
Easy assembly
Lightweight yet very durable
Adjustable handles and footrests
|
Not as quiet as others
|
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
|
Popular Mechanics
Most Reliable
|
Smooth, quiet flywheel
Used by commercial fitness centers
Super durable
|
Monitor is very basic
|
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.
|
Business Insider
Best rowing machine overall
|
Smooth gliding operation
ease of assembly
large size to accommodate tall people
|
Pricey
requires a bit of space (9 feet by 4 feet) but worth it
|
We ranked Hydrow Wave #2 in November 2023 because:
- 7 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
- Out of those, 3 experts ranked Hydrow Wave as #1.
Verywell Fit
Best Overall
|
Most immersive rowing experience
Top-of-the-line design
Smooth and quiet strokes
|
Larger footprint than other options
Heavy
|
Popular Mechanics
Best "Reel Water" Feel
|
375-pound weight limit
Close to real-water feel
Sleek and quiet
|
Expensive
Need add-ons for storage
|
The Strategist
Strategist-tested: Senior writer Karen Adelson’s pick for all-in-one rowing at home
greatist
Best splurge
|
Real rowing feel, built-in speakers, large touch screen
|
Expensive, membership required
|
Business Insider
The best smart rowing machine
|
Extensive library of motivating classes and rowing events
delivers a full-body workout
features quiet
electromagnetic resistance
|
Expensive
|
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 November 2023 ranking
SELF
Verywell Fit
HiConsumption
The Trend Spotter
Healthline
Popular Mechanics
The Strategist
The Home Gym
greatist
Business Insider
We ranked NordicTrack RW900 #3 in November 2023 because:
- 9 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Verywell Fit
Best High-Tech
|
Great workout program integration
Comes with 22-inch touchscreen
Versatile resistance options
|
Heavy
|
HiConsumption
Best for Beginners
|
Large rotating touchscreen
Great subscription service
Pretty comfortable
Bluetooth audio connectivity
|
Only 250-pound weight limit
Resistance ceiling may be too low for stronger individuals
|
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
|
Popular Mechanics
Best Resistance Options
|
Large, full-color touchscreen
Membership-based group classes
Manual and air-resistance options
|
Expensive
Servicing and support questionable
|
greatist
Best for classes
|
1-year iFit membership with purchase, large touch screen, easy to store
|
Membership requires payment after the first year (currently $396 annually), air resistance can be noisy
|
Business Insider
The best digital-resistance rowing machine
|
Interactive workouts
easily folds up
utilizes a dual resistance design
|
Expensive
iFit membership costs $39 per month (after the first free year)
|
We ranked Sunny Health SF-RW5515 #4 in November 2023 because:
- 7 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
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
|
Popular Mechanics
Best Budget Pick for Tall Rowers
|
Portable
Long slide rail
Affordable
|
Not as durable
Small readout
|
The Strategist
Strategist family poll: The rowing machine I bought my dad for Christmas
Business Insider
The best rowing machine for beginners
|
Economical with eight levels of resistance
easy to fold and store
|
Only okay cord quality
rail might be too short for tall people
|
We ranked Echelon Row-S #5 in November 2023 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Verywell Fit
Easiest Setup
|
Foldable
Comes with 22-inch touchscreen
Built-in wheels
|
Echelon membership required for full benefits
|
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
|
Popular Mechanics
Best Connected Class Package
|
Reliable brand
Smooth action
Resistance controls on handles
|
Heavy
Need to pay for class membership after free trial
|
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
|
We ranked The Ergatta Rower #6 in November 2023 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Verywell Fit
Best Design
|
Multiple features and workouts
Easy to move and store
Bluetooth compatibility
|
Expensive
Technology takes time to master
|
HiConsumption
Best for Gamers
|
Comes with row-based games
You can compete against others online
Folding design saves space
Wood construction is beautiful
|
Expensive
Built-in speaker doesn’t sound great
|
Business Insider
The best interactive rowing machine
|
Motivating video game-inspired workout platform
beautiful design
features a folding design for easy stowing
|
Expensive
|
We ranked WaterRower Ash #7 in November 2023 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Popular Mechanics
Best Water-Resistance Rowing Machine
|
Beautiful design
True water-based resistance
|
Not foldable
|
greatist
Best high weight capacity
|
High weight capacity, easy to use, aesthetically pleasing design
|
Assembly requires power tools, resistance level difficult to change
|
Business Insider
The best water resistance rowing machine
|
Gorgeous appearance,
meditative whooshing sounds
simulation of open-water rowing sensations
|
Expensive
included monitor is fine but limited
|
We ranked Stamina ATS Air #8 in November 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Verywell Fit
Best Wind Resistance
|
Resistance naturally changes based on your intensity
Lightweight
Comfortable
|
Louder than other options
|
HiConsumption
Best Foldable Rower
|
Great space saver
Inexpensive
Lightweight
Dynamic resistance setting changes based on your effort
|
Only 250-pound weight capacity
Not everyone will love the lack of dial controls
No screen
|
Popular Mechanics
Best Budget Rowing Machine
|
Affordable
Durable materials
|
No manual resistance options
|
We ranked Sunny Health SF-RW5639 #9 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sunny Health SF-RW5639 as #1.
Verywell Fit
Best Budget
|
Great for small spaces
Quiet
Easy to use
|
Changing resistance mid-workout isn't seamless
|
We ranked Velocity Exercise #10 in November 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Verywell Fit
Best Quiet
|
Solid construction
Easy to assemble
Quiet enough to use in a common area
|
Too small for tall people
|
HiConsumption
Best Rower for Comfort
|
Very smooth rowing experience
Molded-foam seat is best in the bunch
Super ergonomic handles
Non-slip foot stops are helpful
Affordable
|
A little long but too heavy to move frequently
|
greatist
Best for small spaces
|
Quiet, easy to store, comes with a heart rate monitor
|
Durability concerns from reviewers, hard to reach customer service
|
We ranked ProForm 750R #11 in November 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
HiConsumption
Runner-Up
|
Super quiet
Comes with 1-year iFit membership
User-friendly
Has a smart device holder
Really comfortable seat and handles
|
Low weight limit (250lbs)
|
Popular Mechanics
Best Budget-Friendly Interactive Rower
|
Affordable with streaming capabilities
Compact and foldable
|
Need separate device for streaming
|
We ranked MaxKare Magnetic Tension #12 in November 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” 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 Sunny Health Obsidian Surge #13 in November 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Popular Mechanics
Budget-Friendly Water Rower
|
Affordable
Reliable fitness tracking
Smooth water feel
|
Heavy model
|
We ranked Stamina Trac Glider 1050 #14 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” 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
The best budget rowing machine
|
Low price
independent arms for a full range of movement
ease of assembly and folding
|
Resistance declines as piston heats up during long rowing sessions
short warranty (90 days for parts/one year for frame)
|
We ranked Sunny Row-N-Ride #15 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Verywell Fit
Best for Small Spaces
|
Silent
Very small footprint
Secure design
|
Doesn't mimic a traditional rowing experience
|
greatist
Best rowing machine for lower-body workouts
|
Easy to use, assemble, and store; great for lower-body workouts
|
Nontraditional rower, not a lot of resistance options
|
We ranked Peloton Row Basics #16 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Verywell Fit
Best Investment
|
Smooth and quiet strokes
Trusted, premium brand
Form assist feature
|
Expensive
|
We ranked Stamina Conversion II #17 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Verywell Fit
Best Recumbent
|
Great for users who need additional support
Convenient to fold and store
Two-in-one design
|
Doesn't mimic a traditional rowing experience
|
greatist
Best convertible
|
Adjusts to recumbent bike, easy to use
|
Seat can be uncomfortable for biking, difficult to assemble
|
We ranked Hydrow Wave #18 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
HiConsumption
Best for Small Spaces
|
30% smaller than regular Hydrow
Can be mounted on the wall with add-on device
Can simulate real rowing with electromagnetic drag tech
Hydrow has one of the best fitness subscriptions around
|
Pricey, especially with subscription
|
Business Insider
Best budget smart rowing machine
|
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 regular Hydrow and it's not adjustable
|
We ranked WaterRower Classic S4 #19 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
HiConsumption
Best Water-Like Rower
|
Feels like you’re actually rowing on water
Low profile makes it very stable
Several wood options
Pretty quiet
|
Heavy
|
Healthline
Best water rower
|
easy to use
stows upright, making it a good option for smaller spaces
can be used with add-ons such as the Bluetooth ComModule and Ergatta WaterRower Upgrade package
|
expensive
not easy to change resistance level
no built-in touch screen or sound system
|
We ranked Schwinn Crewmaster #20 in November 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” 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
|