July 2024
Rowing Machines: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of rowing machines rankings posted by key online experts, as of July 2024.
Summary
On 22 Jul 2024, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 102 rowing machine endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
55 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 22 Jul 2024, 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)
-
Sunny Health & Fitness: 4 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)
-
Hydrow: 3 rowing machines
(#1 is Hydrow Rower)
Price breakdown
At a glance - July Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Rowing Machine |
CNET
|
Business Insider
|
greatist
|
The Trend Spotter
|
Healthline
|
Popular Mechanics
|
The Strategist
|
SELF
|
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.
|
-
|
1
|
7
|
5
|
1
|
1
|
1
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
|
2
|
- | $1360 |
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
|
3
|
-
|
6
|
3
|
4
|
7
|
5
|
5
|
|
3
|
- | $1845 |
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.
|
-
|
4
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
3
|
2
|
-
|
1
|
|
4
|
- | $205 |
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.
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
14
|
2
|
2
|
6
|
3
|
-
|
12
|
|
5
|
- | $800 |
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.
|
4
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
3
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
9
|
|
6
|
+1 | $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.
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-
|
8
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
2
|
9
|
-
|
-
|
|
7
|
New * | $1845 |
Hydrow Pro Rower
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
8
|
- | 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.
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
2
|
|
9
|
- | $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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
|
10
|
-4 | $1545 |
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.
|
3
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
|
11
|
-1 | $2995 |
Peloton Row
|
1
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
12
|
-1 | $128 |
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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2
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
16
|
-1 | 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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-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
4
|
-
|
|
17
|
-1 | 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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
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
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
We ranked Concept2 RowErg #1 in July 2024 because:
- 7 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
- Out of those, 4 experts ranked Concept2 RowErg as #1.
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
|
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.
|
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
|
Verywell Fit
Best Adjustable
|
Accommodates all heights
Comfortable seat
Very stable
|
Small, basic display
|
We ranked NordicTrack RW900 #2 in July 2024 because:
- 8 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Business Insider
Best digital resistance
|
Interactive workouts
easily folds up
utilizes a dual resistance design
|
Expensive
iFit membership costs $39 per month (after the first free year)
|
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
|
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
|
Verywell Fit
Best for Cross-Training
|
Rotatable monitor for workouts off the rower
Beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes offered
Smooth, quiet strokes
|
Doesn’t fold or store vertically
Seat can be uncomfortable during longer rows
|
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 July 2024 ranking
CNET
Business Insider
greatist
The Trend Spotter
Healthline
Popular Mechanics
The Strategist
SELF
Verywell Fit
The Home Gym
We ranked Hydrow Rower #3 in July 2024 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Hydrow Rower as #1.
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
|
greatist
Best splurge
|
Real rowing feel, built-in speakers, large touch screen
|
Expensive, membership required
|
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
We ranked Sunny Health SF-RW5515 #4 in July 2024 because:
- 7 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Business Insider
Best 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
|
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
We ranked Echelon Row-S #5 in July 2024 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
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
|
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
|
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
|
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 July 2024 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Business Insider
Best water resistance
|
Gorgeous appearance,
meditative whooshing sounds
simulation of open-water rowing sensations
|
Expensive
included monitor is fine but limited
|
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
|
We ranked Hydrow Pro Rower #7 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” 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 you’re rowing on water
Highly stable
High-quality video and audio system
|
On/off button is inconveniently located
|
We ranked The Ergatta Rower #8 in July 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
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 ProForm 750R #9 in July 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” 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 #10 in July 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” 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 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 Peloton Row #11 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” 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 classes
|
Interactive, motivating, instructor-led classes, premium design, swiveling screen for on-floor workouts, screen can play other media besides classes, comes with a wall anchor for easy storage
|
Expensive, requires monthly subscription cost to access classes and Peloton content
|
We ranked Stamina Trac Glider 1050 #12 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
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)
|
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
|
We ranked Peloton Row Basics #13 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Verywell Fit
Best for Studio-Like Experience
|
Works well for taller people
Has cup and phone holders
Offers form improvement feedback
|
Seat isn’t very comfortable
Handlebars can be hard to reach once you’re strapped in
Peloton app membership is separate
|
We ranked MaxKare Magnetic Tension #14 in July 2024 because:
- 2 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 Stamina ATS Air #15 in July 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best rowing machines” rankings.
Popular Mechanics
Best Budget Rowing Machine
|
Affordable
Durable materials
|
No manual resistance options
|
We ranked Sunny Health Obsidian Surge #16 in July 2024 because:
- 2 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 Schwinn Crewmaster #17 in July 2024 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
|