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
Show all brands

Price breakdown
As can be seen in the chart below, lowest high-ranking rowing machines start at $83.40 (Sunny Row-N-Ride) and go up to $2494.99 (Hydrow Wave). Median rowing machine costs $380.40 (Sunny Health Obsidian Surge).
$83.40
$2494.99

At a glance - November Ranking

Scroll horizontally to browse this ranking table
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
-
-
-
-
-

; ; ;
#17 $83.40 Sunny Row-N-Ride
#9 $119.51 Sunny Health SF-RW5639
#14 $149.99 Stamina Trac Glider 1050
#4 $239.99 Sunny Health SF-RW5515
#8 $259 Stamina ATS Air
#13 $380.40 Sunny Health Obsidian Surge
#10 $519.99 Velocity Exercise
#19 $739.95 Stamina Conversion II
#5 $999.99 Echelon Row-S
#3 $1099.98 NordicTrack RW900
#11 $1199.99 ProForm 750R
#7 $1289 WaterRower Ash
#21 $1689 WaterRower Classic S4
#20 $1695 Hydrow Wave
#2 $2494.99 Hydrow Wave

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.
Critic endorsements:
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

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

The Trend Spotter

Go to ranking

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

Popular Mechanics

Most Reliable

Smooth, quiet flywheel
Used by commercial fitness centers
Super durable

Monitor is very basic

Go to ranking

The Strategist

Snooping: Jason Statham’s rowing machine

Go to ranking

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.

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

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.
Critic endorsements:
SELF

Go to ranking

Verywell Fit

Best Overall

Most immersive rowing experience
Top-of-the-line design
Smooth and quiet strokes

Larger footprint than other options
Heavy

Go to ranking

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

The Strategist

Strategist-tested: Senior writer Karen Adelson’s pick for all-in-one rowing at home

Go to ranking

The Home Gym

Go to ranking

greatist

Best splurge

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

Expensive, membership required

Go to ranking

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

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 November 2023 ranking

We ranked NordicTrack RW900 #3 in November 2023 because:

  • 9 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
SELF

Go to ranking

Verywell Fit

Best High-Tech

Great workout program integration
Comes with 22-inch touchscreen
Versatile resistance options

Heavy

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

Popular Mechanics

Best Resistance Options

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

Expensive
Servicing and support questionable

Go to ranking

The Strategist

Men’s Health editors’ pick

Go to ranking

The Home Gym

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

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)

Go to ranking

We ranked Sunny Health SF-RW5515 #4 in November 2023 because:

  • 7 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
SELF

Go to ranking

The Trend Spotter

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

Go to ranking

Popular Mechanics

Best Budget Pick for Tall Rowers

Portable
Long slide rail
Affordable

Not as durable
Small readout

Go to ranking

The Strategist

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

Go to ranking

The Home Gym

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

We ranked Echelon Row-S #5 in November 2023 because:

  • 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
SELF

Go to ranking

Verywell Fit

Easiest Setup

Foldable
Comes with 22-inch touchscreen
Built-in wheels

Echelon membership required for full benefits

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

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

The Home Gym

Go to ranking

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

We ranked The Ergatta Rower #6 in November 2023 because:

  • 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
SELF

Go to ranking

Verywell Fit

Best Design

Multiple features and workouts
Easy to move and store
Bluetooth compatibility

Expensive
Technology takes time to master

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

The Home Gym

Go to ranking

Business Insider

The best interactive rowing machine

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

Expensive

Go to ranking

We ranked WaterRower Ash #7 in November 2023 because:

  • 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
SELF

Go to ranking

Popular Mechanics

Best Water-Resistance Rowing Machine

Beautiful design
True water-based resistance

Not foldable

Go to ranking

The Strategist

Expert-approved: A Pilates instructor’s favorite rowing machine

Go to ranking

greatist

Best high weight capacity

High weight capacity, easy to use, aesthetically pleasing design

Assembly requires power tools, resistance level difficult to change

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

We ranked Stamina ATS Air #8 in November 2023 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Verywell Fit

Best Wind Resistance

Resistance naturally changes based on your intensity
Lightweight
Comfortable

Louder than other options

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

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 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.
Critic endorsements:
Verywell Fit

Best Budget

Great for small spaces
Quiet
Easy to use

Changing resistance mid-workout isn't seamless

Go to ranking

greatist

Best under $200

Compact, inexpensive, quiet

Not great for full-body workout

Go to ranking

We ranked Velocity Exercise #10 in November 2023 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Verywell Fit

Best Quiet

Solid construction
Easy to assemble
Quiet enough to use in a common area

Too small for tall people

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

greatist

Best for small spaces

Quiet, easy to store, comes with a heart rate monitor

Durability concerns from reviewers, hard to reach customer service

Go to ranking

We ranked ProForm 750R #11 in November 2023 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
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)

Go to ranking

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

We ranked MaxKare Magnetic Tension #12 in November 2023 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
SELF

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

Go to ranking

The Strategist

Self editors’ pick

Go to ranking

We ranked Sunny Health Obsidian Surge #13 in November 2023 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Popular Mechanics

Budget-Friendly Water Rower

Affordable
Reliable fitness tracking
Smooth water feel

Heavy model

Go to ranking

The Strategist

People’s Choice: Best water rowing machine on Amazon

Go to ranking

The Home Gym

Go to ranking

We ranked Stamina Trac Glider 1050 #14 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
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

Go to ranking

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)

Go to ranking

We ranked Sunny Row-N-Ride #15 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Verywell Fit

Best for Small Spaces

Silent
Very small footprint
Secure design

Doesn't mimic a traditional rowing experience

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

We ranked Peloton Row Basics #16 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
SELF

Go to ranking

Verywell Fit

Best Investment

Smooth and quiet strokes
Trusted, premium brand
Form assist feature

Expensive

Go to ranking

We ranked Stamina Conversion II #17 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
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

Go to ranking

greatist

Best convertible

Adjusts to recumbent bike, easy to use

Seat can be uncomfortable for biking, difficult to assemble

Go to ranking

We ranked Hydrow Wave #18 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
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

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

We ranked WaterRower Classic S4 #19 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
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

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

We ranked Schwinn Crewmaster #20 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
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

Go to ranking