Honest Rowing Machine Reviews
|
Welcome to my rowing machine review page, where I provide detailed and honest evaluations based on real user experiences. Each review includes scores and insights from users who have owned their machines for at least one month. Additionally, I personally test many of the machines when possible and stay updated through fitness forums, blogs, and other resources on issues related to reliability and durability.
If you're tired of reviews that simply repeat manufacturers' specifications, you've come to the right place. My reviews are based on actual user feedback and personal experience, aiming to give you a genuine understanding of each product. To help you compare features and prices, I've included a comparison table. If you own a rowing machine and would like to share your experiences, please contact me. Your feedback is valuable and helps improve the accuracy and comprehensiveness of these reviews. |
 Unbiased rowing machine reviews |
Affiliate Disclaimer and Objectivity
I am affiliated with several online sellers of rowing machines and earn a small commission on purchases made through links on this site. However, this does not influence the ratings I assign to the machines I review. As you'll see, the scores vary widely, reflecting my commitment to providing unbiased opinions.
Updates and Transparency
I regularly update the content on this site as new information becomes available and new models are tested. The comments and scores from testers reflect their personal views, which may differ based on individual preferences. For more details on how these reviews are compiled, please refer to the "About Us" section.
I am affiliated with several online sellers of rowing machines and earn a small commission on purchases made through links on this site. However, this does not influence the ratings I assign to the machines I review. As you'll see, the scores vary widely, reflecting my commitment to providing unbiased opinions.
Updates and Transparency
I regularly update the content on this site as new information becomes available and new models are tested. The comments and scores from testers reflect their personal views, which may differ based on individual preferences. For more details on how these reviews are compiled, please refer to the "About Us" section.
Special Offers and Recommendations
I also keep an eye out for special offers and discounts to ensure you get the best deals on rowing machines. When multiple retailers offer the same model at similar prices, I prioritize those with a strong reputation for customer service, both pre- and post-purchase.
I also keep an eye out for special offers and discounts to ensure you get the best deals on rowing machines. When multiple retailers offer the same model at similar prices, I prioritize those with a strong reputation for customer service, both pre- and post-purchase.
|
Choosing the Right Rowing Machine
When selecting a rowing machine, consider factors such as available space, your height and weight, and your fitness goals—whether it's weight loss, cardiovascular improvement, or training for competitive rowing. Not every machine is suitable for everyone, so it's essential to find one that fits your specific needs. Remember, a higher price doesn't always mean a better product. My goal is to provide you with reliable and unbiased information to help you choose the best rowing machine within your budget, tailored to your fitness objectives. |
|
LISTEN ON THE GO - Rowing Machine Ratings Explained
Rowing Machines Listed by Price and Star Rating
|
Low Budget (under $250) Budget ($250 - $500) |
Mid-Range ($500 - $750) Mid-Range ($750 - $1,000) Top Range (over $1,000) |
Top Rowing Machine Recommendations by Price
You can see the most popular models I've tested, listed on our Homepage - here are some of the less well known machines but still worth a mention. To read them in full, see the links below.
Two of the top rated rowers on this website in a head-to-head, see Ergatta vs Hydrow
Budget ($250 - $500)
CIRCUIT FITNESS DELUXE
7.5
|
For a machine costing around $400 you get quite a few features you'd only expect to find on a rower costing twice the price. It has a sturdy feel to it, and the rowing action is quite smooth, thanks to the 11 lbs flywheel. Being magnetic, it's very quiet and has some good programs on the monitor. It may not look as good as some rowers on the market - the yellow circle is a matter of taste - but the seat is wide and comfortable and it has the feel of a model costing more. To conclude, a tidy machine at a tidy price, and the warranty ain't too bad either.
|
 Circuit Fitness Deluxe - rows better than it looks! |
SUNNY OBSIDIAN SURGE
7.5
|
Not so long ago, a water rowing machine would have set you back at least $700. Now, thanks to the budget brands taking an interest the price has come down without compromising too much on the quality. The Sunny Obsidian Surge 500 from Sunny is a very welcome edition to the water machine. It has some great features for a budget model such as a monitor that's heart rate monitor compatible, and a long beam for the taller user. All-in-all a pretty damn fine machine for the cost.
|
 Sunny Obsidian Surge - good value |
Mid-Range ($750 - $1,000)
XEBEX SR-2 AIR
8.5
|
It's not a brand known to many, but the Xebex is a good machine at a very reasonable price. Not unlike the Concept2 in looks, it boasts some great features and has the feel of a rower you'd find in a gym. The build-quality is good, and you won't find many machines that can support a user of up to 500 lbs - that's one solid piece of kit! The monitor is compatible with a heart rate monitor and will display your pulse, but note, it doesn't have any PC-connectivity functions. For the price, it's a great rower that should last for years.
|
 Xebex Air Rower - much underrated |
XTERRA ERG700
8.0
|
Another name that's not on everyone's lips when talking rowers, but in recent years XTERRA have brought six new machines to the market. They've got some pretty impressive mid-range water machines out there, but here's their sleek magnetic offering. It comes with 16 levels of magnetic resistance - a wide enough range to suit all, plus it's very quiet in operation. The seat slides smoothly up and down the high rail. The height makes it easy to get on and off - great if your back and knees are a bit dodgy :0) It has a great monitor and some useful features for the price.
|
 The sleek XTERRA ERG700 |
Top Range (over $1,000)
TEETER POWER10
8.5
|
As they say in England, this is not everyone's cup of tea, as it's not what you would call a conventional rowing machine. The Teeter Power10 is a magnetic elliptical rower that has an action unlike any other model we've tried. The resistance allows you to push as well as pull and therefore works more muscle groups. This isn't for those want to use an indoor rower to train for real rowing, but if you're looking to get into shape and burn up calories, this is a great bit of home fitness equipment to help you do just that.
|
 The unique Teeter Power10 |