Unbiased Home Rowing Machine Reviews:
Plus User Guide and Workouts
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Welcome to Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Rowing Machine.
Are you looking for a rowing machine but overwhelmed by the hundreds of options available? You're not alone. Since 2010, I've been closely monitoring the home fitness market and testing equipment to help people like you make informed decisions. The model you choose really depends on a number of factors:
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 Me acting like a big kid on the Float Rower |
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And then you need to consider which type of rowing machine is best for your needs. Understanding what's on offer can help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Here's a quick overview... MAGNETIC: Offers smooth and quiet operation. HYDRAULIC: Typically more compact and affordable. WATER-RESISTANT: Provides a realistic rowing experience with adjustable resistance. Find out more here... |
CONTENTS
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In addition to helping you find a rower, I also offer a guide on how to use your rower effectively to maximize your workouts.
Expert Reviews and Recommendations
I've tested numerous models, taking into account factors like build quality, features, and value for money. My goal is to simplify your decision-making process and help you enjoy the journey of selecting the right machine.
Expert Reviews and Recommendations
I've tested numerous models, taking into account factors like build quality, features, and value for money. My goal is to simplify your decision-making process and help you enjoy the journey of selecting the right machine.
Making the Right Choice
Don't let the vast selection of models overwhelm you. Whether your budget is modest or generous, I can guide you to the best options available, ensuring you find a machine that suits your needs and helps you achieve your fitness goals.
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 model that will get you into the shape of your life. There is a huge range to meet the huge demand. You can spend anything from around $100 to well over $3,000 - so you can imagine the difference in quality and reliability.
However, buying the most expensive rower doesn't always guarantee you'll get a better machine. 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 go low if you intend to row everyday for an hour! It will let you down quicker than you think.
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 model that will get you into the shape of your life. There is a huge range to meet the huge demand. You can spend anything from around $100 to well over $3,000 - so you can imagine the difference in quality and reliability.
However, buying the most expensive rower doesn't always guarantee you'll get a better machine. 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 go low if you intend to row everyday for an hour! It will let you down quicker than you think.
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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, I don't receive any payment to write these rowing machine reviews, I don't sell rowers, provide spare parts, and I don't promote any particular brand. I'm only interested in finding good, reliable machines at the best prices and deals on the web. This site is an affiliate of a number of retailers including Amazon and I earn a small commission on sales. And please note, this does not influence the scores I give. 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. |
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Quick Guide - Top Rowing Machine by Price
To save you time, here's a summary of some of the best machine's I've reviewed in the last two year - ordered by price bracket.
Best Rowing Machine Under $250
SUNNY RW5515
5.0
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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 I recommend you don't buy a model in this price range.
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The Sunny RW5515 |
Best Rowing Machine Under $500
FITNESS REALITY 5000X
7.8
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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.
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 Fitness Reality 5000X |
Best Rowing Machine Under $750
FITNESS REALITY 4000MR
8.0
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We have to admit this one 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.
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 Fitness Reality 4000MR |
Best Rowing Machine Under $1,000
CONCEPT2 MODEL D
9.5
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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 now 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.
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 Concept2 model D |
Best Rowing Machine Over $1,000
When you commit to spend this sort of cash you're going to want a quality rower that delivers results. In my view, there are three real stand-outs in this range.
ASSAULT AIRROWER ELITE
9.5
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The Assault brand is aptly named - they make fitness equipment that's capable of taking a real battering when it comes to working out. And the AirRower Elite is no exception. This is a no-nonsense rower that has the look and feel you could thrash away on it all day... and it will still get the better of you. The build quality is superb. It's steel and alumunium frame is commercial-grade, even the monitor has an in-your-face, come on I dare you, look :0) If you're looking for a machine to get you fit and not impressed by fancy, hi-tech stuff, then this is the rower for you. Strong and sturdy - it should last for years!
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ERGATTA ROWER
9.5
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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.
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 The spectacular Ergatta Rower |
HYDROW ROWER
9.5
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Okay, so I 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 14 years I've been running this website, 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.
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 The ultra sleek Hydrow Reality Rower |
How I Compile My Rowing Machine Reviews
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My rowing machine reviews are written either by me, or by people who have spent at least a week using the machine or already own one and have had it for over a month. I rate each machine using the following criteria. I've recently changed the quick reference info-graphic which appear on each review page.
I rate the build quality, features, and value for money and then give it an overall score out of one hundred. To read about the models I've tested to date, please see all my reviews, or use my comparison table to check the price verses features. I perform regular price checks, so I can recommend the best buys on the market. My goal is to help you get the best model at a price you can afford. |
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I 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 I recommend this great workout program with over 20 workouts.
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Content by Roy Palmer - Google+
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I'm proud to announce my new website for treadmill users is NOW LIVE - see Treadmill-Guide.com
Updates... including the latest Rowing Machine Reviews
September 2024 - I've finally got to try out the Echelon Smart Row - not bad at all :0)
March 2024 - yes! Two reviews in one month! It's very cheap but is the Sunny RW5941 SMART really that smart?
March 2024 - okay it's been a while since I last posted a review - so here you go. Check out the Dripex Magnetic.
October 2023 - for around $300 the Echanfit R42 Magnetic looks like well worth a look if you're on a budget.
June 2023 - My fellow testers check out the Joroto M23 Water.
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 indoor rowers.
March 2024 - yes! Two reviews in one month! It's very cheap but is the Sunny RW5941 SMART really that smart?
March 2024 - okay it's been a while since I last posted a review - so here you go. Check out the Dripex Magnetic.
October 2023 - for around $300 the Echanfit R42 Magnetic looks like well worth a look if you're on a budget.
June 2023 - My fellow testers check out the Joroto M23 Water.
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 indoor rowers.
TESTIMONIALS:
"Thanks for the help, your website was awesome." Chris Cannon aka Thechugdude - I won't ask about the name :0)
"My best to you Roy and again thank you for taking the time to do your reviews. They were a big help to me." Skip Davis, San Diego.
I 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 - I won't ask about the name :0)
"My best to you Roy and again thank you for taking the time to do your reviews. They were a big help to me." Skip Davis, San Diego.
I hope you find our unbiased and honest reviews help you make what can be a difficult choice much easier :0)
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