Home Rowing Machine Reviews & User Guide
Find Your Best Rower for the Top Models Tested Here -2023
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My unbiased home rowing machine reviews will help you find the best model for your needs and budget. There is a huge range of rowers available and you may find the choice a little confusing - I certainly do, and I've been monitoring the rower market since 2010.
First up.... don't panic! As they say, 'keep calm and carry on'. The model you choose really depends on a number of factors. The obvious one is how much you're prepared to pay. Then followed by your goals, the available room at home, the type of room you'll be using it. And lastly, how often and for how long you intend to train. |
 Me acting like a big kid on the Float Rower |
I've taken all these things into consideration when testing and writing these reviews to hopefully make the process of choosing and buying a rowing machine both easier, and perhaps even enjoyable. And once you have your rower, I have advice and examples of workouts to help you get the very best from your rowing machine.
I hope you find this website useful.
Short of time? To save you the trouble of reading all my reviews within your chosen budget, here's a quick tip. If you have a budget of around a $1,000 you really can't go far wrong buying one of the most popular home rowing machines of all time - the Concept2 Model D. For $945 you'll get a rower that will last for years... and years ...and then a few more years. It has some great features. Gymnasiums, health resorts and rowing clubs all over the world love it, and so will you.
If your budget is lower, or you have more to spend, don't be put off by the staggering choice of models out there. I can help you find the answers to all your questions, and ensure you get the best rowing machine that will get you into the shape of your life. There is a huge range of rowing machines to supply the huge demand, you can spend anything from around $100 to well over $2,500 - so you can imagine the difference in quality and reliability.
However, buying the most expensive model doesn't always guarantee you'll get a better rower. There's no point buying a top of the range model, if you only plan on using it two or three times a week. Likewise, it's false economy to buy a budget rowing machine if you intend to row everyday for an hour! It will let you down quicker than you think.
For more help on making the right decision see our guide to buying a rower, and also check out our advice for buying a used model.
Please note, we don't receive any payment to write our rowing machine reviews, we don't sell rowers, provide spare parts, and we don't promote any particular brand. We're only interested in finding good, reliable rowing machines and the best prices and deals on the web. This site is an affiliate of a number of retailers including Amazon and earn a small commission on sales. This does not influence the scores given to the rowing machine we review. The income earned through advertising and any commissions from retailers, is used to buy or hire models to test, and pay for reviewer's time.
I hope you find this website useful.
Short of time? To save you the trouble of reading all my reviews within your chosen budget, here's a quick tip. If you have a budget of around a $1,000 you really can't go far wrong buying one of the most popular home rowing machines of all time - the Concept2 Model D. For $945 you'll get a rower that will last for years... and years ...and then a few more years. It has some great features. Gymnasiums, health resorts and rowing clubs all over the world love it, and so will you.
If your budget is lower, or you have more to spend, don't be put off by the staggering choice of models out there. I can help you find the answers to all your questions, and ensure you get the best rowing machine that will get you into the shape of your life. There is a huge range of rowing machines to supply the huge demand, you can spend anything from around $100 to well over $2,500 - so you can imagine the difference in quality and reliability.
However, buying the most expensive model doesn't always guarantee you'll get a better rower. There's no point buying a top of the range model, if you only plan on using it two or three times a week. Likewise, it's false economy to buy a budget rowing machine if you intend to row everyday for an hour! It will let you down quicker than you think.
For more help on making the right decision see our guide to buying a rower, and also check out our advice for buying a used model.
Please note, we don't receive any payment to write our rowing machine reviews, we don't sell rowers, provide spare parts, and we don't promote any particular brand. We're only interested in finding good, reliable rowing machines and the best prices and deals on the web. This site is an affiliate of a number of retailers including Amazon and earn a small commission on sales. This does not influence the scores given to the rowing machine we review. The income earned through advertising and any commissions from retailers, is used to buy or hire models to test, and pay for reviewer's time.
Quick Guide - Top Rowing Machine by Price
To save you time, here's a summary of some of the best rowing machine's we've reviewed in the last year - ordered by price bracket. Note: This website is an associate of Amazon and a number of other retailers. We earn a commission from sales generated via these links, but this does not influence how we rate the rowing machines we review.
Under $250
Sunny SF-RW5515:
5.0/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
Reviewer: R. Palmer
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A budget machine in every sense with few features to get excited about. But in it's favor, it's quite a sturdy machine that should last longer than most machines for the cost. It's a magnetic rowing machine so it's quieter than an air rower, but you might find the seat starts to squeak after regular use. But despite it's negatives, it could still get your heart rate up and help get you fit. Note, if you intend to use your rower more than 3 times a week we recommend you don't buy a model in this price range. |
The Sunny RW5515
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Under $500
Merach Q1S:
7.8/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
Reviewer: R. Palmer
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This took us all a little by surprise. It comes with a mid-range budget price tag, it looks like a machine costing under $500. But when you get on and start to row, it feels like a model that should cost more. The build quality is pretty good. But it's the app and programs that really make it stand out from the others costing $500 and less. Well worth a look in our view, Click the button below the photo to read my review. |
Merach Q1S
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Fitness Reality 5000X:
7.8/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
Reviewer: R. Palmer
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The latest budget water-resistant rowing machine from Fitness Reality is well worth a look. The vertical position of the tank helps to give it a compact look while have a long rail suitable for rowers of up to 6' 3". The build quality is good giving it the feel of a more expensive rower. But what helps raise this model above most of its direct competitors is the use of the MyCloudFitness app. With a wide choice of workouts, including trainer-led sessions, and a good range of pre-set programs, it should help to get you fit for a reasonable price. It's great value for money with some features you'd expect on a more expensive machine. |
Fitness Reality 5000X |
Under $750
Fitness Reality 4000MR:
8.0/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
Reviewer: R. Palmer
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We have to admit this machine took us by surprise. It's a full motion rower with proper 'oars' which means you're working more upper body muscles, especially the shoulders. But that's not the only good thing. It's very quiet being a magnetic-resistance model, it's very sturdy, has a high seat (good for the old knees, eh!), and has a long beam making it suitable for taller users. There are 16 levels of resistance, plus the monitor has 10 pre-set programs which provides plenty of variation of workouts - important to keep you motivated. It also comes with a 5-year warranty on the frame, and 3-years on parts. All-in-all, it's a very commendable rowing machine that should keep you coming back for more. |
Fitness Reality 4000MR |
Under $1,000
Sunny Phantom Hydro:
8.0/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
Reviewer: R. Palmer
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Since 2018 there's been an explosion in the mid-priced budget water resistance rowing machines. We've tried six in the last two years and while they all have something to offer, one stands out from the crowd. The wonderfully-named Sunny Phantom Hydro is a sturdy beast, while being quiet and smooth. It comes with some great features including 11 pre-set programs such as a Race program, target workouts, and recovery. The angled water tank offer 7 resistance levels - but note this is manually set, that is, you add or remove water. For the price, you get a quality rowing machine that should last you years. |
Sunny Phantom Hydro Water |
Concept2 Model D:
9.5/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
Reviewer: R. Palmer
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Absolutely no contest here. The Concept2 Model D is what the elite rowers choose over any other machine. Rowing clubs all over the world use this machine for indoor training and testing - because despite all the punishment of constant use, it will last for years! It's been around since 2003 so looks a little outdated when compared to the new boys on the block, but continues to get new features such as online functions and upgraded monitors. For the price it's still a steal. Also popular with gymnasiums and health clubs as it will take anything anyone can throw at it with minimum maintenance. |
 Concept2 model D |
Over $1,000
Ergatta Rower:
9.5/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
Reviewer: R. Palmer
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Just when you think you've seen it all in the world of fitness, along comes the Ergatta. While based on the stylish WaterRower with some design modifications, the hardware is not the best thing about this machine. The digital platform underlying this marvel is something to behold. The game-based workouts bring a whole new dimension to the rowing experience. The Ergatta keeps track on your progress and tailors your workouts and goals accordingly. It ain't cheap, but for the price you pay, you get cutting-edge, expertly-designed workouts that will motivate you for years to come to stay fit and healthy. Quite a machine, and it gets better every week with new updates. |
 The spectacular Ergatta Rower
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Hydrow Reality Rower:
9.5/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
Reviewer: R. Palmer
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Okay, so we say over $1,000 - but it's by quite a margin, twice and then a little more to be exact. But trust us, you get so much more than just a rowing machine - apologies if that sounds cheesy. But in the 13 years I've been doing these rowing machine reviews, this one really did take my breath away! It's no exaggeration to say the Hydrow takes indoor rowing to the next level, and it does this by bring the river into your home! The 22" HD screen streams live workouts or actual rows down iconic rivers and simulates rowing on real water, it even adds the sound of your 'oars' dipping in the river as you pull. It really is quite a trail-blazer and sets the bar very high indeed for others to follow. |
 The ultra sleek Hydrow Reality Rower |
Approx $3,000
Life Fitness Heat Row:
9.6/
10
Reviewer: R. Palmer
Reviewer: R. Palmer
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No you haven't misread that, there really is the odd rowing machine that will set you back just a little under $3,000. But for that, you get one heck of machine. The Life Fitness Heat Row has quality written all over it - well not literally. But as soon as you sit on this beauty and pull back on the handle, you know you using a top model. The air and magnetic resistance has 100 levels to select from, it's super quiet, and ultra smooth in operation. The Performance Monitor comes packed with pre-set programs and has THE most accurate wattage meter going. And the small touches also make a big difference. The screen changes color the harder you train, the quick release foot rests are just perfect, and the buttons on the handle mean you can change modes without pausing. All-in-all, it's quite a machine! |
 The super impressive Life Fitness Heat Row |
How We Compile our Rowing Machine Reviews
Our reviews are written by people who have spent at least a week using the machine or already own one and have had it for over a month. We rate each machine using the following criteria. We've recently changed the quick reference info-graphic which appear on each review page.
We rate the build quality, features on the rowing machine and value for money and then give it an overall score out of one hundred.
To read about the models we've tested to date, please see all our rowing machine reviews, or use our comparison table to check the price verses features. We perform regular price checks, so we can recommend the best buys on the market. Our objective is to help you get the best model at a price you can afford.
We also offer training tips on how to get the most from your rowing machine. For example, one of the best ways to get great results from your workouts are heart rate training programs and we recommend this great workout program with over 20 workouts.
Choosing the right model for your needs and budget could make a huge difference to you health and well-being. We hope we can help you make it with this website.
We rate the build quality, features on the rowing machine and value for money and then give it an overall score out of one hundred.
To read about the models we've tested to date, please see all our rowing machine reviews, or use our comparison table to check the price verses features. We perform regular price checks, so we can recommend the best buys on the market. Our objective is to help you get the best model at a price you can afford.
We also offer training tips on how to get the most from your rowing machine. For example, one of the best ways to get great results from your workouts are heart rate training programs and we recommend this great workout program with over 20 workouts.
Choosing the right model for your needs and budget could make a huge difference to you health and well-being. We hope we can help you make it with this website.
About Me
Hi, I'm Roy Palmer and I love to row and run. I coordinate this website and test home rowing machines and also use a number of rowers around the world to tell me what they think of their machines. I'm also an athletics coach and teacher of The Alexander Technique with over 30 years experience in competitive sport and coaching.
If you can't see a rowing machine you'd like us to review, please let me know.
Hi, I'm Roy Palmer and I love to row and run. I coordinate this website and test home rowing machines and also use a number of rowers around the world to tell me what they think of their machines. I'm also an athletics coach and teacher of The Alexander Technique with over 30 years experience in competitive sport and coaching.
If you can't see a rowing machine you'd like us to review, please let me know.
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Content by Roy Palmer - Google+
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We're proud to announce our new website for treadmill users is NOW LIVE - see Treadmill-Guide.com
Updates... including latest rowing machine reviews
June 2023 - My fellow testers check out the Joroto M23 Water rowing machine.
April 2023 - Is it a rower? Is it a stretching machine? I try the versatile LIT Strength Machine.
April 2023 - Merach is a relatively new brand on the scene. I try the Merach Q1S and was impressed!
January 2023 - it's been too long since I tried a new machine, but it was worth the wait. See my review of the Hydrow Wave.
Just tried the latest budget water-resistant rower to come onto the market - check out the Fitness Reality 5000X
Two of the top rowing machines on this website go head-to-head, see my Ergatta vs Hydrow verdict
WOW! It's one of the most expensive machines out there, check our review of the Life Fitness Heat Row Performance.
Should you go for Concept2's Model D or Model E - check our guide here.
Visit Wikipedia for more history and info on rowing machines
June 2023 - My fellow testers check out the Joroto M23 Water rowing machine.
April 2023 - Is it a rower? Is it a stretching machine? I try the versatile LIT Strength Machine.
April 2023 - Merach is a relatively new brand on the scene. I try the Merach Q1S and was impressed!
January 2023 - it's been too long since I tried a new machine, but it was worth the wait. See my review of the Hydrow Wave.
Just tried the latest budget water-resistant rower to come onto the market - check out the Fitness Reality 5000X
Two of the top rowing machines on this website go head-to-head, see my Ergatta vs Hydrow verdict
WOW! It's one of the most expensive machines out there, check our review of the Life Fitness Heat Row Performance.
Should you go for Concept2's Model D or Model E - check our guide here.
Visit Wikipedia for more history and info on rowing machines
TESTIMONIALS:
"Thanks for the help, your website was awesome." Chris Cannon aka Thechugdude - we won't ask about the name :0)
"My best to you Roy and again thank you for taking the time to do your rowing machine reviews. They were a big help to me." Skip Davis, San Diego.
We hope you find our unbiased and honest reviews help you make what can be a difficult choice much easier :0)
"Thanks for the help, your website was awesome." Chris Cannon aka Thechugdude - we won't ask about the name :0)
"My best to you Roy and again thank you for taking the time to do your rowing machine reviews. They were a big help to me." Skip Davis, San Diego.
We hope you find our unbiased and honest reviews help you make what can be a difficult choice much easier :0)
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