10 Best Affordable Rowing Machine 2026 in the United States

The Concept2 RowErg is a well-built indoor rowing machine that uses air resistance, which provides a smooth and natural rowing feel. Its adjustable damper lets you change the resistance to match your fitness level, making it versatile for both beginners and experienced users. The frame combines aluminum and steel, offering durability and a solid feel, and it supports a heavy user weight of up to 500 pounds, which is generous compared to many other machines in its category. Comfort-wise, it features a 14-inch seat height suitable for most users, along with adjustable footrests and an ergonomic handle that help maintain comfortable rowing posture during longer workouts. The included Performance Monitor 5 is a standout feature, offering clear, accurate feedback on your rowing session with options to track pace, watts, and calories, while also connecting wirelessly to apps and heart rate monitors via Bluetooth and ANT+, adding a modern touch to your workout experience.

The size and storage are thoughtfully addressed: the machine measures 96 by 24 inches during use but easily splits into two pieces with caster wheels, making it more manageable to move and store, even in smaller spaces. Although the flywheel design is relatively quiet, air resistance machines can be noisier than magnetic alternatives, which might be a consideration if you live in a shared space or apartment. Additionally, the price may be higher compared to some entry-level rowing machines, but the build quality and performance data justify this for many serious users. The monitor requires two D cell batteries, which is typical but something to keep in mind for maintenance.

This rowing machine is an excellent choice if you want a durable and reliable device for full-body workouts, especially if you appreciate detailed performance tracking and expect to use it regularly. It suits a wide range of users from beginners to advanced rowers who need a strong, comfortable, and well-supported workout device.

The Merach Rowing Machine Q1S offers a range of features that make it a compelling choice for those seeking an affordable and effective rowing machine for home use. It utilizes a magnetic resistance mechanism with 16 adjustable levels, which ensures smooth and quiet operation—ideal for use in shared living spaces without disturbing others. Its dual slide rail design enhances stability and mimics the feeling of rowing on water, which can be appealing to users aiming for a realistic rowing experience.

The machine is built with alloy steel, contributing to its durability and ability to support up to 350 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The LCD monitor, combined with app compatibility, allows users to track their workout metrics such as speed, calories burned, and distance, adding a layer of motivation and progress tracking. Additionally, the free Merach app offers guided courses and exercises, enhancing the workout experience. Comfort and ergonomics are addressed with a well-designed seat and handle, though the dimensions might be a bit snug for very tall users.

The machine's size is relatively compact, and its built-in wheels facilitate easy storage, a plus for those with limited space at home. Assembly is straightforward, with most users able to put it together in about 30 minutes. A notable drawback is that the package does not include a tablet or phone, which are required to take full advantage of the app's features. The one-year warranty provides some peace of mind, though it's important to purchase through authorized sellers to ensure coverage. In conclusion, the Merach Rowing Machine Q1S stands out for its quiet operation, sturdy build, and comprehensive app integration, making it a strong contender in the affordable rowing machine market.

The YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine is a strong contender for those seeking an affordable, quality rower for home workouts. It uses magnetic resistance with a 12-pound flywheel, offering a smooth and quiet rowing experience suitable for beginners and more advanced users. The resistance adjusts across 16 levels, giving enough variety to keep workouts challenging. The machine’s build is solid, featuring a durable alloy steel frame and a weight capacity of 350 lbs, making it suitable for a wide range of users. Comfort is addressed with a padded seat and an ergonomic design that fits users between about 4'5" and 6'2". The LCD monitor is basic but clear, showing key workout metrics like time, distance, calories burned, and stroke count. It also includes a tablet holder, which is handy for entertainment during exercise.

Another plus is the compact size and foldable design, which helps save space at home, and the wheels make it easy to move around. Assembly is relatively straightforward, typically done within 25 minutes. On the downside, while the magnetic resistance is quiet, some users may find the 12-lb flywheel less heavy compared to higher-end models, which could limit intensity for very experienced rowers. The LCD display, while functional, lacks more advanced features like heart rate monitoring or connectivity options. The footprint is reasonable but still requires some space for use.

This rower strikes a good balance of quality, comfort, and quiet operation in its price range, making it a solid choice for most home fitness enthusiasts who want an effective workout without high costs or complicated tech.