Eight best rowing machines of 2025
This gym staple should not be underestimated
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The craze for reformer pilates has been rampant, and pilates princesses are racing to get a reformer bed at home. If a reformer is a little out of your budget though, there's a more affordable machine that will have you feeling an equal burn from your abs, right through to your thighs.
Rowing machines allow for a full-body, calorie-burning exercise routine in the comfort of your home. Once thought of as big, bulky and expensive, they're making a comeback in a major way.
Rowing is one of the best activities you can do for your body, because it combines cardio with strength and resistance training. It will help keep your heart healthy and develop endurance, tone your muscles and strengthen your whole body. It’s one of the few “complete” exercises that works the shoulders, arms, back, abs, and your calves and thighs - so why don’t more of us have rowing machines at home?
For too long, they were big, bulky systems that were expensive to buy and impossible to hide away when you weren’t using them, but now they’re affordable and (mostly) compact. Below is a list of our pick of the best rowing machines on the market.
OUR TOP PICKS
Best foldable rowing machine
For most people, foldable rowing machines that can be stored out of sight are a big winner for the home gym. Most of the rowing machines we've rounded up do fold or store upright- but this makes folding a feature.
Powertrain Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine, $619 at Myer
Why we love it: Cable can be pulled from above for arm exercises also.
Worth noting: No app to connect smartphone; rowing machine has lower weight capacity.
Dimensions: 179L x 54W x 47H cm | Storage: Foldable | Weight capacity: 120kg
What you need to know:
This versatile rowing machine gives you plenty of options for your workout. Its contoured seat rides on smooth glide rollers that gives you a professional gym feel from the comfort of home. With a spongey, non-slip foam handle, it has the unique feature of being able to pull the cable from above and toward the front which means you can use it not just as a rowing machine, but for standing arm exercises as well. There's an easy-to-read LCD monitor and the unit is foldable for easy storage.
Lifespan Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine, $482.72 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Great folding rowing machine that is also quiet thanks to magnetic resistance.
Worth noting: No app to connect smartphone to rowing machine.
Dimensions: 194.5cm x 48cm x 57cm | Storage: Foldable | Weight capacity: 130kg
What you need to know:
The reviews on Myer alone could make this one of the best rowing machines out there. With 16-level adjustable magnetic resistance, this is a great rowing machine for beginners or seasoned rowers who want to challenge themselves. This rowing machine folds upright to save space in your home, and its magnetic resistance makes it a quiet addition to your home gym.
One reviewer wrote, "We are very happy with this Rowing Machine. It works well and there is nothing we are unhappy about. It’s just a good size, not too big, not too small."
Best budget rowing machine
If you're looking for a no-frills rowing machine that does the basics (and then some) this is a great, affordable option.
Everfit Rowing Exercise Machine, $151.95 (down from $306.99) at Myer
Why we love it: Compact for smaller spaces
Worth noting: Smaller display and no smartphone holder
Length: 110 x 21x 79cm | Storage: Slim shape may fit under some beds | Weight capacity: 200kg
What you need to know:
This is a great affordable rowing machine for beginners who are keen to get into the sport but wincing at what some rowing machines cost. The portable machine gets great reviews from those who love its “compact yet effective” nature, and say the rowing machine “ is so versatile as it can be moved around the home and stored under the bed. Most importantly - it has been effective in developing my arms and core!"
It gives you four levels of resistance and the LCD display will keep track of your workout. This is a great rower if you want that full shoulder motion to work your arms, shoulders and upper back.
Best real-water rowing machine
Water rowing machines are designed to replicate the feeling of being actually out on the water, so while they are often more expensive, they will give you a more authentic workout. The only thing to note about water rowers is that you can’t adjust the resistance.
JOROTO Water Rowing Machine, now $438.98 at Amazon
Why we love it: Rushing water sound gives a more real experience.
Worth noting: Doesn't fold as small as some machines.
Length: 185.4D x 44.5W x 59.7H cm | Storage: Foldable | Weight capacity: 136kg
What you need to know:
This water rowing machine is smooth and quiet to use, and the water tank makes it feel like you’re really out there on the water for each rowing stroke, which some might love! It has bluetooth capabilities to elevate your rowing workouts and it does fold somewhat - though not as small as some machines - so you can store it out of sight if needed.
The rowing machine tracks your distance, calories burnt, and time and has a built-in tablet holder for attaching your smartphone. It's a great one if you don't have a lot of space, but still want to work out at home. It has a 4.4 star rating from over 500 reviews, and one such reviewer bares a very real truth we're probably all thinking:
"As shown in promo pic's. Easy to set up, easy to use. Unfortunately you have to supply your own spine, determination and effort to get results.Like books you have to read them not just buy them to gain any benefit.Saying that, even as an ornament, I think its quite an attractive looking piece of equipment."
Waterrower A1 Home Ash Wood Rowing Machine, $1499 at Myer
Why we love it: One of the best rowing machines to look stylish in the home.
Worth noting: Doesn't fold.
Length: 215cm x 56cm x 23cm | Storage: Can be stood upright | Weight capacity: 150kg
Tried and tested by Jessica Smith, Health and Wellness eCommerce Writer.
I had this rower for a number of years in my family home and it was the best rowing machine for us, because even sitting upright and out of use, it wasn't an eyesore.
The reality is, like any home gym equipment (some more than others), there are going to be days where you just don't use it. And, particularly if you live in a smaller space, you want a rowing machine that isn't going to look ugly standing in the corner, because that's where it might end up some (or a lot) of the time. This was the best water rowing machine for us because not only was it super comfortable to use, the ash wood and transparent water base blended in with the aesthetic of the room when it wasn't in use. Aside from looks, the rowing machine also had a great simple monitor to track your rowing speed and a comfortable handle and seat, so you could focus on your rowing technique and nothing else.
Like most air or water rowers, it was a little louder than perhaps a magnetic rower, but I never minded the sound of rushing water as it made for a more realistic rowing experience.
Best magnetic rowing machine
Merach Bluetooth Magnetic Rowing Machine, now $339.99 at Amazon
Why we love it: Magnetic resistance makes this indoor rowing machine super quiet.
Worth noting: Doesn't fold.
Length: 49D x 165.1W x 63H cm | Storage: Wheels, can stand upright | Weight capacity: 159kg
What you need to know:
If you've got other people at home and want to do a super quiet morning workout, magnetic rowing machines are a great way to get some cardio in. Tracking distance, time, calories burned, speed, heart rate and cadence, every stroke counts with this smart rowing machine. With adjustable magnetic resistance, it's a useful piece of equipment for any fitness level.
Best professional rowing machine
They’ll cost you a little more, but for those who want a gym-level workout at home, these indoor rowing machines are well worth the money.
Concept2 RowErg, $1899 at Rebel Sport
Why we love it: The Concept2 Rowerg is a gym-grade air rower that stands the test of time.
Worth noting: No connectable app.
Length: L 244.0 x H 105.0 x W 61.0cm | Storage: Wheels, can stand upright, can be separated into two pieces | Weight capacity: 227kg
What you need to know:
It's an investment, but buyers of this professional rowing machine claim to have gotten years and years out of the Concept2 Rowerg. Using air resistance, the rowing machine responds to every powerful pull, so you're feeling the burn from your shoulders to your calves without the sound of rushing water, which is one of the perks of air rowers. It's easy to wheel around and can be taken apart into two pieces for storage. The Concept2 Rowerg has an overall rating of 5 stars and one very strong review in particular:
"If you are going to buy a rowing machine, this is the only machine worth considering. If you do any research at all you will learn that this is the only machine used by rowing clubs. There is no other."
Best premium rowing machine
Skillrow Rowing Machine, $7,570 at Technogym
Why we love it: More aesthetic and higher quality than most other rowing machines.
Worth noting: Very expensive.
Length: 2435 x 629 x 1280 mm | Weight capacity: 160kg
What you need to know:
For experienced rowers or those who truly want the best water rowing machine for their home gym, this is a luxe option. This premium rowing machine features Aquafeel technology helping to recreate the same rowing motion that you would feel if you were actually rowing through water. The resistance dial allows you to do rowing sessions for your cardiovascular fitness, or create resistance with an additional load for a full body workout and strength training. While this rowing machine is on the pricier end of the spectrum, its design and quality means it should last for longer than your average budget rowing machine, and should provide seasoned water rowers with a realistic workout. The Skillrow app also allows you access to programs devised by a certified personal trainer or coaches, along with interactive workouts and challenges.
What is a good home rowing machine?
As home gym fitness equipment goes, smart rowing machines are probably one of the easiest cardio equipment investments you can make, with even the most basic rowing machine still capable of giving you a full body workout. Because they are often bought online, it can be tricky to test rowing machines, but if you know what features you are after, it's hard to go wrong. It can be helpful to ensure that the rowing machine you do buy accommodates your height and weight, and fits in the space you have available at home.
When you're looking for a rowing machine, there are a few key factors that can determine whether it's a good choice for you:
1. Noise level - Noise is a big factor when it comes to rowing machines, especially if you don't have the luxury of a contained home gym and you're planning to use it in a shared space. Water rowing machines tend to be a little louder on the rowing stroke with the sound of rushing water, but magnetic rowers are known for being quieter than most rowing machines, thanks to magnetic resistance that doesn't use whooshing air or water.
2. Maintenance - Some rowing machines have detachable parts which can make it easier to fix if something goes wrong, but even the best rowing machines can come with complicated parts that may require professional assistance. Keep in mind that water rowers need periodic water changes, which air rowers or magnetic rowers don't require.
3. Storage - If you have a home gym and aren't worried about space, storage may not be a huge factor for you. But to give yourself options, or if you don't have a lot of space, it's a good idea to look for a rowing machine that can be stored vertically or a foldable rower to save space.
4. Seat - The best rowing machines have ergonomic seats that allow you to focus on doing your best rowing, not on how much your butt is hurting. When looking for a quality rowing machine, you want to find something that's comfortable and the right distance from the ground. Adjustable foot straps are also a must to ensure your feet are not slipping around during your rowing workouts.
5. Resistance options and dashboard stats - Resistance and workout metrics are both important in an indoor rowing machine. Water or air resistance tend to provide the most smooth rowing experience, while some rowing machines have adjustable resistance levels for more precise training goals. Dashboard stats can range from basic to more in-depth data.
6. Add-ons and smart features - Some of the more high-tech indoor rowing machines might include pre-programmed workouts, streaming capabilities, Bluetooth headphone connectivity and heart rate monitor syncing. These can enhance your rowing experience and make your workouts more engaging, especially in a rowing machine for beginners.
Is a rowing machine worth it at home?
Formerly the poor cousin to the treadmill and the exercise bike in the home gym, the rowing machine is actually (arguably) more useful than both. And while it may seem a scary machine to get the hang of, it’s actually great for beginners, seasoned gym-junkies and anyone who is after a serious workout.
The main reason rowing machines are so worth your money is they give your whole body a gentle, efficient workout. They target all the main muscle groups AND give you a dose of cardio, while being gentle on joints so that you can exercise safely.
Is a rowing machine better than another cardio machine?
No machine is better than the other, it’s simply about what you’re hoping to get out of your workouts. A rowing machine will (as we’ve already said) target more muscle groups than an exercise bike or a treadmill, but all three will give you a good aerobic workout. You’ll likely burn more calories on something like an elliptical machine, but the rowing machine has the added benefit of building muscle while burning calories during your rowing workouts.
Which style of rowing machine is best?
Rowing machines use many different types of resistance - like water, air, or magnetic resistance - but there’s not really one that’s better than the other, it’s just down to what you prefer. A rowing machine using water may better echo the feeling of ACTUALLY rowing, but you are often limited in how much resistance you can get if you want to supercharge your workout. Meanwhile, magnetic rowing machines can be good for being a little quieter as magnetic resistance doesn't create the same noise as rushing water or air.
When it comes to the monitor or tech capabilities, the best rowing machine for you depends again on what you prefer. Most rowing machines will track strokes, calories, and distance - but if you’re after something more specific or you want targeted workouts, you should look for a rowing machine that offers a little more. It also goes without saying that rowing machines that are easier and more comfortable will likely get more use, so it’s worth considering the shape and cushioning of the seat and how simple it is to pack it away and set it up again.
What to look for when buying a rowing machine:
When buying a rowing machine, there are few key things you want to keep an eye out for to find the best rowing machine for you.
Dimensions
First, make sure you've got all your dimensions right. You'll want to know the amount of space you have to work with at home or in your home gym to determine whether the rowing machine will fit comfortably. Then, you want to make sure you've got your own personal dimensions right. Each rowing machine has a height limit and recommended weight capacity, so it's important to ensure that the rowing machine you choose is the right fit for you.
Resistance
The type of resistance you choose with your rowing machine can determine a lot of things: how loud you rowing machine will be; whether it has adjustable resistance to challenge you and how realistic it feels as a rowing machine. If you are someone who needs to prioritise noise level when it comes to your home gym equipment purchases- whether you live in a small space; have housemates; or are a parent who works out after the kids are in bed, then you might want to consider a magnetic rowing machine. These are typically a lot quieter than an air or water rower, as you don't get that 'whoosh' sound with the air or water. A magnetic rowing machine can also be great if you want to adjust the resistance. If you are new to rowing, or need a low-impact activity for your body, an adjustable rowing machine may be the best rowing machine for you, as you can move freely at a difficulty level that suits you. Or, if you are looking to do more strength training and want a high-intensity resistance level without the speed, an adjustable rower can be a good option. An air or water rowing machine is great if you want to emulate the feeling of actually rowing. The faster you row, the more resistance will be applied with each rowing stroke, and you can truly challenge yourself to work up to great speeds.
Storage capabilities
As with dimensions, it's a good idea to know the area of your home that you're planning to keep your rowing machine, as the best rowing machine for you will first and foremost be something that fits in your home functionally. If you are tight on space, folding rowers are a great way to allow you to still have the versatile piece of home gym equipment in the home when you need it, and stored away to save space when you don't. Most of the rowing machines in this roundup either have the ability to be stored standing upright, so that you can tuck them away by the wall, or some can also be folded, like this Lifespan Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine.
Monitor
If seeing your workout stats or having programs and challenges keeps you more engaged and motivated when exercising, then a smart rowing machine might be the best rowing machine for you. A smart rowing machine like the Skillrow Rowing Machine allows you to connect to an app with your phone so you can engage in workout programs and even rowing races, while a smart rowing machine like Merach Bluetooth Magnetic Rowing Machine has bluetooth capabilities so that you can visualise a real water rowing experience on your phone while workout out. If these bells and whistles aren't all that important to you, then the best rowing machine for you might be something that simply tracks your speed, time, distance and calories burned, which the best rowing machines should all do.
How we choose products
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and looking at customer reviews. Once the list of important features is narrowed down, the search starts for the best range of products.
In my experience as a health and fitness editor with a love/hate relationship with gym equipment, I’m no stranger to the rowing machine. I’ve used many in my time - across various gyms, hotels and product reviews - which has shown me what makes a good rowing machine.
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Originally published as Eight best rowing machines of 2025
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