The best rowing exercise at home is the Concept2 Model D, known for its air resistance and durability, with a strong community following. For a premium alternative, consider the Hydrow Wave, which offers immersive live classes and a sleek design.
Check price on AmazonRowing is one of the most effective full-body workouts you can do at home, engaging 86% of your muscles with low impact. We ranked the best rowing machines for home use based on expert research, owner reviews, and key features like resistance type, storage, and connectivity. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned athlete, our roundup covers rowers that deliver a gym-quality workout in your living room.
Our ranking methodology prioritizes stroke quality, build durability, noise level, and overall value. We gathered data from fitness industry analysts, user surveys from rowing forums, and verified owner testimonials on major retail sites. This honest, evidence-based approach ensures you can trust our recommendations without marketing fluff.
How we rank
We ranked these rowing machines based on expert consensus from fitness publications, owner satisfaction from thousands of verified reviews, and technical specifications like resistance consistency and noise levels. See our method.
Quick picks
| Best for | Product | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Concept2 Model D | Serious rowers and home gym enthusiasts |
| Best Premium | Hydrow Wave | Those who want immersive workouts with live classes |
| Best Interactive | NordicTrack RW900i | Tech-savvy users who enjoy iFit workouts |
| Best Lightweight | WaterRower Natural | Aesthetic home gyms and water resistance lovers |
| Best Budget | Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 | Budget-conscious beginners |
| Best for Beginners | Bala Row & Restore Bundle | New rowers wanting guidance and recovery |
| Best Premium | Aviron Impact Series | Gamified fitness and family workouts |
The picks, compared
Concept2 Model D
The Concept2 Model D is the gold standard of rowing machines, used in CrossFit boxes and indoor rowing competitions worldwide. Its air resistance system provides smooth, self-regulating drag. Owners praise its durability, ease of maintenance, and the depth of performance data via the PM5 monitor. The model folds for vertical storage, requiring only 8 feet of floor space when in use.
What owners say: Owners consistently highlight the machine's longevity and reliable performance over years of heavy use. Many note the active online community and free workout apps, making it easy to stay motivated.
- Industry standard with proven durability
- PM5 monitor with wireless heart rate and apps
- Easy to maintain and repair
- No built-in screen for streaming classes
- Loud air resistance may disturb others
Hydrow Wave
The Hydrow Wave offers a sleek design and a large 16-inch touchscreen for streaming on-demand and live rowing classes. Its computer-controlled electromagnetic resistance simulates on-water rowing. The frame is built with an aerospace-grade aluminum monorail and folds for storage. Reviewers note the engaging instructors and scenic locations make workouts fly by.
What owners say: Owners love the high-quality production value and the motivation from live classes. Many report consistent use due to the engaging content, though some mention the subscription cost as a consideration.
- Immersive live and on-demand classes
- Space-saving foldable design
- Smooth, quiet electromagnetic resistance
- Requires subscription for full content
- Heavier than air rowers at 107 lbs
NordicTrack RW900i
The NordicTrack RW900i features a 22-inch tilting touchscreen that follows your movement, plus automatic resistance adjustment during iFit workouts. Its silent magnetic resistance system provides a smooth stroke. The ergonomic seat and adjustable footrests enhance comfort. Owners appreciate the free iFit family membership included, but note the subscription requirement after the trial.
What owners say: Owners say the auto-resistance feature and trainer-led workouts make rowing more dynamic. Many enjoy the ability to train in virtual locations like the Amazon River or Norwegian fjords.
- Large tilting screen for interactive classes
- Silent magnetic resistance
- Auto-adjusts resistance during iFit workouts
- iFit subscription needed for full features
- Some users report connectivity issues
WaterRower Natural
The WaterRower Natural uses water resistance to mimic the feeling of on-water rowing. Its handcrafted solid ash wood frame is both beautiful and lightweight. The storage vertical is optional. Owners report a smooth, quiet stroke and the calming sound of water. The S4 monitor tracks basic metrics but lacks Bluetooth. It is best for those who prioritize form and aesthetics.
What owners say: Owners rave about the build quality and how it doubles as furniture. Many mention the water resistance provides a more realistic feel than air rowers, though some wish for more advanced connectivity.
- Excellent water resistance feel and sound
- Handcrafted wood frame is beautiful
- Quiet operation
- No Bluetooth or app connectivity
- Water tank requires occasional conditioning
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 is an affordable magnetic rowing machine with 12 levels of resistance and a basic LCD monitor. It features a comfortable padded seat and adjustable foot straps. Owners say it is a solid entry-level rower that provides a decent workout. It comes with a one-month free trial of the SunnyFit app for guided workouts.
What owners say: Owners appreciate the low price and quiet magnetic resistance, making it suitable for apartments. Many note that it lacks advanced features but is reliable for basic rowing exercises.
- Very affordable price point
- Quiet magnetic resistance
- Compact and easy to store
- Basic monitor with no Bluetooth
- Less smooth stroke than premium models
Bala Row & Restore Bundle
The Bala Row & Restore Bundle includes the Bala Beam (a padded foam roller) and 2 lb ankle weights to complement rowing. While Bala is known for fitness accessories, this bundle encourages proper form and recovery. Owners report it helps with rowing form and core engagement. It is not a rowing machine but a supportive accessory set.
What owners say: Owners like the quality of the Bala products and find them useful for warm-ups and cooldowns. Some say the bundle is a nice add-on for home rowers but not a standalone solution.
- High-quality foam roller and weights
- Encourages proper form and recovery
- Aesthetic and durable design
- Not a rowing machine itself
- Ankle weights may not be heavy enough for some
Aviron Impact Series
The Aviron Impact Series combines air resistance with a large 22-inch touchscreen that runs game-based workouts, scenic rows, and silent mode. Its unique resistance system allows for both air and magnetic drag. Owners love the immersive arcade-style games that make rowing addictive. The foldable frame saves space. It is a high-tech option for those who need entertainment to stay consistent.
What owners say: Owners frequently mention that the games, like beating monsters or racing in virtual worlds, make them row longer. Many families use it as a fun group activity. Some wish the subscription was cheaper.
- Innovative game-based workouts
- Versatile air and magnetic resistance
- Family-friendly with multiple user profiles
- Subscription required after 30-day trial
- Heavy (120 lbs) and requires assembly
How to choose
- Resistance Type. The three main types are air, magnetic, and water. Air resistance (Concept2) offers a smooth, realistic feel but is loud. Magnetic (Sunny, NordicTrack) is quieter and often more affordable. Water (WaterRower) provides a soothing sound and similar feel to on-water rowing.
- Noise Level. If you plan to row while others are in the room, consider noise. Air rowers are the loudest; magnetic rowers are near-silent; water rowers produce a gentle splash. Check decibel ratings or owner comments if a quiet workout is essential.
- Interactive Features. Models with screens (Hydrow, NordicTrack, Aviron) offer live and on-demand classes that boost motivation. However, they often require a subscription after a trial. If you prefer self-guided workouts, a basic monitor may suffice.
- Footprint and Storage. Most rowers are long (7-8 feet). Some fold vertically (Concept2, Hydrow Wave) or horizontally (NordicTrack). Measure your space and consider how easy it is to store. Water rowers are often heaviest and may not fold.
- Build Quality and Warranty. Look for a strong frame and a warranty of at least 2-5 years on parts. Check maximum user weight. Owner reviews often highlight durability issues; brands like Concept2 and WaterRower have excellent long-term reliability.
Frequently asked questions
Is rowing a good full-body workout?
Yes, rowing engages about 86% of your muscles, including legs, core, back, and arms. It is a low-impact, high-calorie-burning exercise that improves cardiovascular endurance and builds muscular strength.
How often should I row at home?
For most people, rowing 3-5 times per week for 20-30 minutes is effective. Beginners should start with 10-15 minutes and gradually increase. Listen to your body and allow rest days, especially if using intense resistance.
Are expensive rowing machines worth it?
Higher-priced rowers typically offer better build quality, smoother resistance, and interactive features like live classes. If you are committed to rowing long-term, a premium model can provide a more enjoyable and durable experience.
Can I store a rowing machine upright?
Some models, like the Concept2 Model D and Hydrow Wave, are designed to be stored vertically to save space. Always check the manufacturer's instructions before attempting upright storage.
What is the difference between air and magnetic rowers?
Air rowers use a fan that creates resistance proportional to your effort, giving a realistic feel. Magnetic rowers use magnets to adjust resistance levels, which are quieter and often require less maintenance.
Are subscriptions required for smart rowers?
Many smart rowers require a subscription to access live and on-demand classes after a trial period. For example, Hydrow and NordicTrack have monthly fees, while Concept2 offers free apps. Consider your budget for ongoing costs.
The verdict
The Concept2 Model D remains the best overall rowing machine for home use due to its proven durability, community support, and performance tracking. For those who want immersive classes and a sleek design, the Hydrow Wave is unmatched. Budget buyers should consider the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515, which offers decent quality at an accessible price.
Video Guide
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