10 Best Rowing Machines 2025 in the United States

The Concept2 RowErg is a popular indoor rowing machine known for its durable build and smooth air resistance system. Its frame combines aluminum and steel, supporting users up to 500 pounds, making it sturdy and long-lasting. The adjustable air resistance offers a realistic rowing feel, allowing you to easily change workout intensity by adjusting a damper.

Comfort is well-considered with a 14-inch seat height, adjustable footrests, and an ergonomic handle, which suits most users and helps prevent strain during workouts. The Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) is a standout feature, providing accurate data like pace, watts, and calories, and it can connect wirelessly to over 40 fitness apps and heart rate monitors, adding versatility for tracking progress. Noise levels are kept reasonably low thanks to the flywheel design, meaning it won’t be too disruptive during use.

In terms of size, it requires a workout space about 9 by 4 feet, and it splits into two pieces for easy storage, with caster wheels aiding mobility. One drawback might be its length (8 feet), which could be challenging for smaller rooms. Additionally, it uses two D-cell batteries for power, which might be less convenient than rechargeable options. This rowing machine is well-suited for anyone looking for a reliable, effective full-body workout with solid tracking features and comfortable ergonomics, especially if you have the space to accommodate its size.

The MERACH Bluetooth Magnetic Rower Machine presents a robust choice for home rowing workouts, showcasing several notable strengths. Its electromagnetic resistance system offers a stable and smooth rowing experience with 16 adjustable levels, making it versatile for users of different fitness levels. The machine’s dual slide rail design enhances stability and mimics the feel of wood rowing machines, supporting users up to 350 pounds. Additionally, the MERACH app compatibility brings a range of free courses and automatic resistance adjustments, allowing for an immersive and hands-free workout experience.

The rower is also praised for its quiet operation, which eliminates the worry of disturbing others during use. Assembling the machine is straightforward, taking approximately 30 minutes, and its compact storage design is convenient for smaller spaces. The LCD monitor tracks essential workout metrics like speed, calories burned, time, stroke count, and distance, offering a comprehensive overview of one’s performance.

However, there are a few considerations to note. The machine is relatively heavy at 50 pounds, which might be challenging for some users to move despite its built-in wheels. Additionally, it requires manual adjustment for some settings, which could interrupt the flow of a workout. Lastly, while the app offers many features, users must ensure they are comfortable with the technology to fully benefit from the device. This rowing machine is ideal for fitness enthusiasts seeking a quiet, stable, and interactive home workout solution, provided they are comfortable with some degree of tech management.

The Hydrow Wave Sunset is a well-built rowing machine that uses magnetic resistance designed to closely mimic the feel of real water rowing, which many users find smooth and natural. Its aluminum frame supports users up to 375 pounds, promising good durability and stability during workouts. Comfort-wise, it features an adjustable padded seat, foot straps, and a grip designed to reduce strain, making it suitable for longer sessions.

The 16-inch HD touchscreen with built-in speakers offers an immersive experience, especially when paired with a paid membership giving access to thousands of guided workouts and performance tracking via HydroMetrics. This smart tracking helps you understand your endurance, power, and precision, plus it recommends workouts tailored to your progress. Storage is convenient as the machine can be folded upright using an additional kit, helping save space at home despite its moderately large size (80" long and 19" wide). Weighing 102 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight for its build but still stable. The machine connects to devices like Apple Watch and Bluetooth headphones, adding to its convenience. Noise level is generally low thanks to the magnetic system, though it may not be completely silent.

One downside is the $44/month membership fee, which is separate from the machine price and required to access most workout content, potentially adding to overall cost. Also, the Upright Storage Kit is sold separately, so that’s an extra consideration for tight spaces. The Hydrow Wave Sunset is well suited for users looking for a premium, interactive rowing experience with strong coaching support, durable design, and realistic rowing feel, but those wanting a fully standalone machine without ongoing fees might want to consider alternatives.