10 Best Indoor Rowing Machines 2025 in the United States

The Hydrow Pro Rowing Machine stands out with its magnetic resistance mechanism, offering a smooth and adjustable rowing experience. Its 22-inch HD rotating touchscreen is a major highlight, providing immersive workouts with live and on-demand options, though it requires a $44/month membership for full access.

The build quality is robust, with an aluminum frame that supports up to 375 pounds, ensuring durability and stability. Comfort features include a padded seat, adjustable foot straps, and a low-stress grip handle, making it suitable for extended use. However, the machine's size (86” L x 25” W x 47” H) means it occupies considerable space, although it can be stored upright with an additional kit.

Noise levels are relatively low due to the electromagnetic drag technology, which mimics the feel of rowing on water. The rowing machine is also compatible with Bluetooth fitness devices like the Apple Watch and wireless headphones, enhancing the user experience. This rowing machine is ideal for fitness enthusiasts looking for a high-tech, engaging workout experience at home. However, those on a budget or with limited space might find the membership cost and storage requirements a bit challenging.

The NordicTrack RW900 is a solid choice if you’re looking for a smart indoor rowing machine with interactive workout options. It uses air resistance, which offers a smooth and realistic rowing feel, adjustable through 26 levels controlled by professional trainers in the iFIT subscription service. The 22-inch HD touchscreen stands out—it pivots for easy viewing whether you’re rowing or doing off-equipment workouts, making exercise more engaging.

Build quality is strong with an aluminum frame and a 15-year warranty on the frame, ensuring long-term durability. Comfort is well thought out, featuring oversized, adjustable pedals with quick straps that keep your feet secure during intense sessions. The SpaceSaver design allows you to fold and wheel the machine for easier storage, which is great for smaller homes.

On the downside, air resistance machines like this can be a bit noisier compared to magnetic ones, so it might not be the best fit if you need something very quiet. Also, many key features and workout programs require an iFIT subscription, which is an added ongoing cost. The rower supports users up to 250 pounds and has a decent footprint, so make sure you have enough space for its 86.5-inch length when in use. If you want a comprehensive, interactive rowing experience with solid build quality and don’t mind the subscription model or some noise, the RW900 is a strong contender in its category.

The MERACH Q1S rowing machine uses a magnetic resistance system with 16 adjustable levels, offering a smooth and quiet workout ideal for home use without disturbing others. Its dual slide rail design provides extra stability and supports users up to 350 pounds, showcasing solid build quality made from alloy steel. The included LCD monitor displays key workout data such as time, distance, calories, and speed, and it connects with the MERACH and Kinomap apps for guided workouts, adding variety and motivation.

Comfort-wise, the seat and handle are designed to be stable and smooth, suitable for users up to 6'7" tall, although it may lack some advanced cushioning or ergonomic adjustments found in higher-end models. In terms of size, the rower is fairly compact (about 65" long) and can be stored upright using built-in wheels, making it space-friendly for most home gyms. Assembly is straightforward and should take about 30 minutes. Magnetic resistance helps keep noise levels low, making it well-suited for apartments or shared spaces.

Tablets or phones for app usage are not included, so users will need their own device to access those features. The product comes with a one-year warranty. This rowing machine is well suited for beginners or intermediate users seeking a quiet, stable, and app-compatible option for home cardio workouts.