10 Best Air Resistance Rowing Machines 2025 in the United States

The Concept2 RowErg is a highly regarded air-resistance rowing machine known for its durable build and smooth rowing experience. It features adjustable air resistance via a damper setting, allowing users to customize workout intensity realistically. The machine's frame combines aluminum and stainless steel, providing solid stability and a high 500-pound user weight capacity, which suits a wide range of users. Comfort is addressed with a 14-inch seat height, adjustable footrests, and an ergonomic handle, making it suitable for most body types.

The included Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) is a standout feature, offering accurate workout data like pace, watts, and calories, plus wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and ANT+ to connect with apps and heart rate monitors. This makes tracking progress easy and motivating. Noise is minimized through the flywheel design, so it is quieter than many air rowers, though it will still produce some sound typical of this resistance type. The machine is fairly large (96 x 24 inches) but breaks down into two pieces with caster wheels, making storage and moving more manageable for home use. Battery life is well thought out, with the monitor powered by flywheel motion to extend battery duration. The warranty provides peace of mind with 5 years on the frame and 2 years on parts.

Some potential drawbacks include the size, which might be challenging for very small spaces, and the resistance adjustment that requires manual damper changes rather than digital controls, which may feel less convenient for some users. While quieter than many air rowers, it is not silent. This rowing machine represents a strong choice for anyone wanting a reliable, gym-quality indoor rower with excellent tracking features and durable construction.

The MERACH Rowing Machine is designed to offer a comprehensive, low-impact full-body workout with a 10-level air resistance system, making it suitable for various fitness levels. Its substantial build quality, featuring a high-quality steel frame, supports up to 350 lbs, making it ideal for taller and heavier users.

The ergonomic comfort seat and adjustable footplates ensure proper rowing posture, which is crucial for effective workouts and injury prevention. The performance monitor, which connects via Bluetooth to the Merach APP, provides accurate workout data and includes a device holder, enhancing the user experience.

Assembly is straightforward, with the machine being 90% pre-assembled, and its foldable design allows for easy storage, saving space when not in use. However, due to its size (95 x 24 x 40 inches), it may require a dedicated space for use. The noise level, typical of air resistance rowers, might be a consideration for those in shared living spaces or wanting a quieter workout environment. The machine comes with a 12-month warranty, extendable by an additional 12 months upon registration. This rowing machine is particularly suitable for dedicated home gym enthusiasts looking for a robust, high-performance rower that can cater to a wide range of fitness needs.

The Concept2 RowErg Model D is a popular indoor rowing machine known for its sturdy build and smooth air resistance system. It offers adjustable resistance through a damper, allowing easy changes to workout intensity that match different fitness levels. The frame is made from a combination of aluminum and steel, providing durability and a solid feel that supports users up to 500 pounds. Its Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) is a standout feature, delivering accurate tracking of pace, watts, calories, and distance. It also has wireless compatibility with many fitness apps and heart rate monitors, making progress tracking straightforward and motivating.

In terms of comfort, the machine features a reasonably high seat height and adjustable footrests, along with an ergonomic handle, which help make rowing sessions more comfortable for most users. It is designed to be relatively quiet compared to typical air rowers, thanks to its optimized flywheel design. When not in use, the rower separates into two pieces and includes caster wheels for easier storage and mobility, though it still requires a space of about 9 by 4 feet. Battery life is enhanced because the monitor partly powers itself from the flywheel, reducing the frequency of battery changes.

The warranty covers the frame for five years, providing reassurance for long-term use, with an included two-year limited warranty covering additional components. This rowing machine is well-suited for users who want a reliable, well-built rower with precise performance tracking and adjustable resistance, making it ideal for home workouts or serious rowing training. It may be less suitable for those needing a very compact or ultra-quiet machine, as it still produces some noise typical of air resistance rowers and requires moderate storage space.