10 Best Compact Rowing Machines 2025 in the United States

The YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine is designed for home use, offering a compact and foldable solution that easily fits into small spaces, making it a great choice for those with limited room. One of its standout features is the magnetic resistance system, providing a smooth and quiet rowing experience, which is ideal for indoor workouts without disturbing others in the home. This rowing machine also supports a substantial weight capacity of 350 pounds and accommodates users up to 6'7”, thanks to its durable steel frame and ergonomic design.

With 16 levels of resistance, it caters to various fitness levels, from beginners to more advanced users seeking a challenging workout. The machine engages 90% of muscle groups, making it effective for full-body workouts, weight loss, and strength training. The inclusion of an LCD monitor allows users to track their progress, and a tablet holder adds convenience for entertainment during workouts.

The 69.5-pound weight of the machine may pose a challenge for moving it around, despite its foldable nature. Additionally, while the Bluetooth capability is a nice touch for those who enjoy interactive workouts, it could be seen as a gimmick by some users who prefer a straightforward rowing experience.

The Merach Rowing Machine is a compact magnetic rower designed for home use. It features 16 levels of quiet magnetic resistance, which allows for a smooth and silent workout experience, making it ideal for shared living spaces where noise can be an issue. The machine supports a maximum weight capacity of 350 pounds, accommodating a wide range of users. Its dual slide rail design ensures stability and prevents the machine from flipping over during intense rowing sessions, adding to the safety and comfort of the workout. The adjustable resistance levels make it suitable for both beginners and more experienced rowers looking for a challenge.

The machine is relatively easy to assemble, with most users able to put it together in about 30 minutes. Its compact dimensions (65L x 19.3W x 24.8H inches) and space-saving design, including built-in wheels for easy movement, make it a good fit for smaller homes or apartments. The LCD monitor provides essential workout metrics such as speed, calories burned, time, stroke count, and distance, allowing users to track their progress. Additionally, the machine is compatible with the free Merach app and the Kinomap app, which offer various training programs and immersive rowing experiences.

One minor drawback is that tablets and phones are not included, which are necessary for using the app features. The machine is made from durable alloy steel, ensuring its longevity, and it comes with a one-year warranty for added peace of mind. With a strong customer rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 2,200 reviews, it is well-regarded by users. While it might not have the advanced features of higher-end models, it offers a solid balance of performance, convenience, and affordability, making it a good choice for home fitness enthusiasts looking for a reliable rowing machine.

The YOSUDA Water Rowing Machine stands out in the compact rowing machine category with its innovative features and robust build. It uses water resistance, which is known for providing a smooth and realistic rowing experience, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users.

The machine's 180° foldable design is a major advantage, allowing for convenient storage and making it a good choice for home use where space may be limited. This feature, combined with its elegant beech wood finish, makes it both functional and aesthetically pleasing. With a weight capacity of 400 pounds, it accommodates a wide range of users, ensuring sturdiness and stability during workouts.

The monitor and Bluetooth app integration allow users to track their workouts efficiently, offering metrics like distance, time, and calories burned, which is crucial for monitoring fitness progress. Comfort is enhanced with a well-designed seat, making longer workouts manageable. However, the setup process is straightforward, with the machine being predominantly pre-assembled, which is a relief for those who dread complicated assemblies. The build quality, using solid beech wood, promotes longevity and adds a touch of elegance to the machine's appearance.

On the downside, while the water resistance mechanism can be a benefit, it may require more maintenance compared to other resistance types, and the machine, being made of wood, might not fare well in extremely humid environments. The cost of this machine might also be a bit higher than other models, given its premium features and build. Nevertheless, for those looking for a stylish, durable, and effective rowing machine for home use, the YOSUDA Water Rowing Machine is a compelling option.