Best indoor rowing machines of 2024

About the WaterRower CityRow Max Rowing Machine

The WaterRower CityRow Max Rowing Machine is an elegant, robust indoor rowing machine that combines style with cutting-edge water resistance technology. Boasting an American Ash wood frame coated in aluminum, the CityRow Max Rowing Machine is lightweight and can be moved to store upright in 20 seconds, taking up less space than an end table.

The CityRow Max Rowing Machine is not only beautiful, but it is a high-performing piece of workout equipment, providing users with real-time metrics and access to unlimited indoor rowing classes with the purchase of a CityRow subscription. You can even connect to your Apple Watch to track your heart rate and close your rings. 

Plus, the CityRow Max can be used by anyone in the household – the machine’s database supports multiple user profiles, so your family members and/or roommates can all benefit from the low-impact, full-body workout the CityRow Max provides. 

Why we like it

• Tracks progress in real-time
• Supports multiple user profiles
• Easy to put away

What to consider

• Expensive
• Suitable only for users under 375 lbs
• CityRow subscription required

Best multipurpose rower: LIT 3-in-1 Strength Machine

About the LIT 3-in-1 Strength Machine

You’ll never fall into a workout routine rut with the LIT 3-in-1 Strength Machine. In addition to being an indoor rowing machine, the LIT 3-in-1 Strength Machine also converts into a Pilates reformer or strength trainer in a matter of minutes. Complete with a water tank, resistance bands and a tablet attachment for your mobile device, you’ll be able to tackle nearly any workout you desire.

Want to take your workout to the next level? The LIT 3-in-1 Strength Machine comes in three different bundles: Starter, Plus and Pro, all complete with extra equipment such as ankle cuffs for Pilates, a barbell for strength and more extras. You can design your own workout or follow along with over 3,000 classes in the LIT app.

When you’re finished, you can easily store your 3-in-1 Strength Machine in nearly any room of your home – the LIT 3-in-1 Strength Machine only requires four square feet of space when stored upright.

Why we like it

• Lifetime frame warranty
• Low maintenance 
• Multiple workout possibilities 

What to consider

• Expensive
• Tablet not included
• Water treatment not included

Best magnetic rower: Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Rower Machine 

About the Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Rower Machine 

New to rowing? The Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Rower Machine is a fantastic indoor rowing machine that provides a smooth, quiet rowing experience by using magnets to apply the desired resistance. Complete with eight different levels of resistance, users can easily amp up or ease up their workout with a quick twist of the resistance knob.

Although at an affordable price point, the Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Rower Machine sacrificed nothing when it comes to comfort. This indoor rowing machine boasts an ergonomic design, complete with a cushioned seat and non-slip pedals. Plus, thanks to anti-slip handlebars, you’ll never miss a rep.

The Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Rower Machine doesn’t have streaming capabilities, but you can track several key metrics on the easy-to-read LCD screen, including Time, Count, Calorie, Total Count or Scan. Want a little more pizzazz? Upgrade to the SMART Magnetic Rower Machine with Bluetooth connectivity!

Why we like it

• Beginner-friendly
• Built-in floor stabilizers 
• Affordable

What to consider

• Limited resistance settings
• Suitable only for users under 250 lbs
• Bluetooth connectivity not available

Best air rower: Concept2 RowErg Machine

About the Concept2 RowErg Machine

The Concept2 RowErg Machine is one of the most popular indoor rowing machines in the world and a staple at local gyms and Olympic training centers alike due to its usability and durability. As an air rower, the RowErg utilizes a fanned flywheel and spiral air damper to generate the amount of resistance desired by its user. Most row between levels 3-5, but you can crank it up to level 10 if you’re feeling powerful.

You can easily track your performance and progress on the RowErg’s backlit PM5 Performance Monitor, which displays metrics like distance, speed, pace, calories burned and watts. The PM5 Performance Monitor also offers Bluetooth connectivity. Plus, you can race your teammates or gym buddy by activating machine-to-machine racing capabilities. 

The Concept 2 RowErg Machine is also incredibly portable, thanks to its lightweight frame and caster wheels. Easily drag your indoor rower from one side of the room to the next before and after your workout. And speaking of your workout, you can row in multiple languages or play a rowing game on your RowErg! No day has to be the same. 

Why we like it

• Ergonomic handle
• Automatic metric tracking
• Five-year warranty

What to consider

• The Tall Legs model costs extra
• Noisy
• ErgData app is not compatible with all monitors

Best smart rower: Peloton Row 

About the Peloton Row

A Peloton membership isn’t required to use the Peloton Row, the newest addition to the Peloton family, but it sure doesn’t hurt. Peloton members will love the ability to attend live rowing classes or pick from a vast on-demand rowing class library, which is updated daily. 

Not only can you tune into a variety of classes on your Peloton Row, but you can rest assured that you’ll become a better rower over time, thanks to the Peloton Row’s real-time form feedback function. The Peloton Row is also compatible with a plethora of mobile devices, meaning you can have your performance metrics at your fingertips whenever you want them.

Plus, the Peloton Row also boasts a near-silent rowing experience, thanks to its sturdy 156.5-lb frame and electronic resistance controls. Whether you’re ten miles away or 1000 miles away from the nearest Peloton studio, the Peloton Row’s studio-quality speakers will make sure you don’t miss a single stroke.

Why we like it

• Content library updated daily
• Electronically controlled resistance
• Professional setup included with delivery

What to consider

• Expensive
• Heavier than competing machines
• Peloton membership sold separately

Best hydraulic rower: Sunny Health and Fitness Full Motion Rowing Machine Rower

About the Sunny Health and Fitness Full Motion Rowing Machine Rower

The Sunny Health and Fitness Full Motion Rowing Machine Rower is a versatile indoor rowing machine, perfect for both seasoned rowers and beginners alike. This indoor rowing machine is known for its unique full-motion design, which helps users mimic the natural movement of rowing on the water by permitting increased arm movement.

The Sunny Health and Fitness Full Motion Rowing Machine Rower utilizes a hydraulic resistance system, powered by a hydraulic cylinder. Users can adjust the resistance by turning the resistance knob and choosing between 12 different resistance levels. 

In addition to offering users a wide range of resistance options and the full range of motion, the Full Motion Rowing Machine Rower sits at an incredibly affordable price point, listed for under $200. Its affordability makes it a great option for prospective rowers who don’t want to break the bank but want to take advantage of the health benefits that indoor rowing provides.

Why we like it

• Affordable
• Compact
• Allows full range of motion

What to consider

• Low monitor visibility
• Stricter height requirements
• Parts warranty only 180 days long

How to choose an indoor rowing machine

Choosing the right indoor rowing machine will largely depend on your fitness goals. Are you interested in rowing for fun, or are you looking to start a strict rowing regimen? 

Your experience level with indoor rowing can also be a deciding factor. Many indoor rowing machines come with guided indoor rowing workouts you can stream from your machine, which can be a great feature to have if you're new to rowing or hate designing your workouts.

Finally, ask yourself how much money you’re willing to spend. One bright side of indoor rowing machine shopping is that there are indoor rowing machines made to fit every budget. 

FAQ

Are indoor rowers worth it?

Indoor rowers provide a great low-impact, full-body workout and can make for a great addition to your home gym space. However, if you only plan on using an indoor rowing machine a few times per month, it’s probably best to opt for a budget-friendly indoor rower. 

How much do rowing machines cost?

Rowing machines are available at a variety of price points. You can look to spend anywhere from $150 to nearly $3000, with plenty of options to choose from in that range. In general, you can expect water rowing machines to be on the higher end and hydraulic rowing machines to be on the lower end. Have your heart set on a pricey model? Think about selling or trading in a piece of existing exercise equipment that you aren’t using as much anymore.

What are the different types of rowing machines?

There are four main types of rowing machines to choose from: air rowing machines, water rowing machines, magnetic rowing machines and hydraulic rowing machines. The main difference between indoor rowing machines is how their resistance is powered: by air, water, magnets or hydraulics!