I’m a Personal Trainer and These Are the Only Rowing Machines Worth Buying

Built by rowers for rowers, the Concept2 RowErg is one of the most widely recognized and trusted rowing machines, commonly found in CrossFit boxes and fitness centers around the world. I've used this model in both gym settings and home environments, and can see why it's a favorite. While it's popular among elite athletes, it's also surprisingly beginner-friendly and easy to grow with over time. As an air rower, the harder you row, the more significant the resistance, allowing you to control the intensity of your workout with each stroke.

TESTING NOTES: This model earned top scores in our tests for its performance and durability. I found it to be incredibly well-constructed, with a high weight capacity that contributes to its overall stability and sturdiness. The handle features a grippy yet comfortable texture, even during extended sessions, and the footrests are adjustable for a personalized fit. The chain has withstood hundreds of sessions, too, which I appreciate for long-term use.

One of the first things you'll notice is the simple, no-frills LCD monitor. I like the "Just Row" option for quick sessions, but you can also set up custom intervals or choose from several built-in programs. It tracks everything I want to see, including pace, watts, stroke rate and calories, without overcomplicating things. While it's not as flashy as high-tech models with interactive screens, it connects via Bluetooth to over 30 apps, and you can attach a device holder if you prefer to stream workouts from your phone or tablet.

We gathered feedback from both beginners and seasoned rowers, and testers across the board agreed that it delivers a smooth, challenging and effective workout. One tester who's been using their Concept2 for over three years said, "It's just built to last. I go hard on this machine, and it can keep up with my intense workouts. It doesn't take much upkeep either." Another described it as "no nonsense — just get on and row."

TAKE NOTE: It's worth mentioning that, like most air rowers, this one does get louder as you increase your speed and effort. I don't mind the noise — it almost motivates me to push harder. However, it's something to consider if you're working out in a shared space or have kids napping in the house while you get your sweat on. The good news is that it separates into two pieces, making it easy to store when not in use, even if you're short on space at home.

Most quality rowers can cost well over $1,000, so I was excited to see this sleek model from Merach, which manages to offer premium features at a much more affordable price. One thing I appreciated immediately was that it comes mostly preassembled. It took about 30 minutes to get it fully set up, which is a huge plus if you're not particularly handy. While it doesn't fold, it can be stored upright to save space, a nice feature for smaller home gyms.

TESTING NOTES: This machine uses a magnetic resistance system, which is one of the quietest types of rowers available. I was genuinely impressed by how smooth and quiet it was, making it ideal for early-morning sessions without waking anyone up. One tester summed it up perfectly: "My favorite thing about this rower is that it's quiet! I have downstairs neighbors, and I have zero worries about doing my rowing workouts at 6 a.m."

There are 16 resistance levels that you can manually adjust, allowing beginners and intermediate rowers to achieve an efficient workout. However, it may be less ideal for serious and competitive athletes. "I like that you can adjust the resistance easily with the turn of a single dial," one tester said. "The low end was very low, but I've been enjoying the upper levels." There is also an electric option available, as well as one with an HD screen at a low price (we haven't tried the latter and can't attest to the screen quality or content, but for the price, it's definitely competitive).

TAKE NOTE: The tech is simple but smart, complete with Bluetooth functionality, which is a bonus on such an affordable model. While the LCD screen is fairly basic, I appreciated the designated spot to place your tablet or smartphone, allowing you to stream your own workouts or use Merach's free corresponding app. It doesn't feel as durably made as something like the Concept2, but it's still solid and a great choice for the price.

Designed to offer an immersive and connected rowing experience, the Hydrow boasts all the bells and whistles you'd expect on a premium cardio machine. I've tried a lot of smart fitness equipment, and this one stands out, not just for its sleek design, but for how much it motivates you to row. The built-in 22-inch touchscreen is stunning, and you can stream on-demand workouts led by world-class athletes in breathtaking locations (it's no surprise that it won a GH Fitness Award).

TESTING NOTES: You can hop on and row freestyle if you prefer a self-paced session, but I found that you'll get the most out of this rower when you subscribe to Hydrow's monthly membership (around $44/ month). That unlocks access to thousands of guided workouts filmed everywhere from Miami to London to Scotland. Honestly, the production value is beautiful, and what really hooked me were the instructors. The coaching is incredibly motivating and professional without feeling pushy or too over-the-top.

Former GH Institute Chief Technologist Rachel Rothman gravitated toward classes with master trainer Nick Karwoski. I've tried his sessions too, and I totally get the appeal, because he's engaging and encouraging, with a down-to-earth tone that makes the workouts fly by. As Rachel put it, "An affable storyteller, his rapport would often pleasantly distract me from the rigors of his workouts. For me, he offered an ideal level of positive reinforcement without being overly bubbly or excessively tough."

TAKE NOTE: From a performance standpoint, Hydrow utilizes electromagnetic resistance, which makes it impressively quiet — a feature I always appreciate when working out early and the kids are still asleep. Just be sure to check your room dimensions before committing, since the machine is fairly large and does not fold. That said, it's beautifully built and includes a luxurious HD touchscreen, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, two USB ports and built-in speakers.

If you're looking for a full-body, studio-style workout at home and can manage the higher price point, I genuinely think the Hydrow is worth it. It combines expert-level coaching, immersive visuals, and smooth, quiet resistance in a way that makes rowing feel more like an experience that you actually look forward to.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Hydrow Rower

This luxury, American-made rowing machine delivers on both aesthetics and function. The build quality is top-tier, made from cherry and oak wood, which gives it a premium look and feel that doesn't scream "gym equipment." It has a user weight capacity of up to 500 pounds, but is relatively lightweight for a water rower of its kind.

TESTING NOTES: For one of our testers, we arranged full assembly, and the process was straightforward. The delivery team was professional, communicative and had everything set up quickly and without hassle. Once in place, the machine delivered a smooth rowing experience. Performance-wise, the resistance feels the most similar to being on open water because it's designed with a tank filled with liquid near the footrest. Like an air rower, you control the intensity, so the harder you row, the more resistance you'll feel. Water rowers are generally pretty quiet, and many people find the light sloshing sound to be rather therapeutic.

The 17.3-inch HD touchscreen is a nice touch, and the machine works straight away with a "JustRow" module that tracks your key metrics, syncs with Bluetooth headphones and lets you review workout data (no membership is required, which I appreciate). That said, you'll get the most out of this machine by subscribing to the optional $39/month membership, which unlocks impressive software features, including gamified workouts, solo races, guided classes and even an AI competitor that you can pace against. It's engaging, fun and smartly designed to keep people consistent.

"This is the most innovative rower that I've tried! The software is truly ingenious," one tester commented. "It helps gamify the workout experience and makes working out fun, so it no longer feels like a chore and helps provide extra motivation."

TAKE NOTE: The built-in speakers are just okay, so using Bluetooth headphones is ideal for those higher-intensity sessions. Additionally, the rower sits fairly low to the ground, which may feel different if you're accustomed to a higher rowing platform (high-rise adaptors are available for an additional fee). And yes, it's an investment, so if you are looking for something slightly more compact and affordable, Ergatta offers a Lite version at a more competitive price point, but the high-rise adaptors aren't compatible with that model.

The Peloton Row is one of the smartest and sleekest rowing machines I've tried, and it's clear that it's built to help home users improve and master their rowing form. What sets it apart is the level of real-time feedback it gives you. You'll receive detailed metrics, including stroke rate, pace, output and distance, along with visual cues to help improve your form. As a personal trainer, I appreciate how it nudges you towards proper technique and alignment without being overwhelming.

It's a premium machine, and the price reflects that. You can row without a subscription if you're looking to move on your own, but to access Peloton's library of live and on-demand classes, you'll need to tack on the monthly membership. For me, the class content and energy are a huge part of what makes the investment worthwhile, and Peloton is consistently one of our top-rated exercise apps, thanks to its engaging instructors and incredible production quality.

TESTING NOTES: I loved that white glove delivery and setup were included (at such a high price point, it should be expected). The team had the rower assembled and ready to go quickly, and everything was clean and seamless. Once in place, the machine felt rock-solid and looked gorgeous, and it's definitely a piece that elevates a home gym setup. The 24-inch HD touchscreen is crisp and responsive, and the fact that it rotates is a major plus, allowing you to seamlessly transition from Peloton's row bootcamps to complementary strength classes on the floor next to the machine during rowing intervals.

This model can stand vertically when not in use, which helps if you're short on space. The seat and handles are much more comfortable and ergonomic than other rowers we tested, and actually took some getting used to for me. It feels best for beginners and intermediate rowers, as well as longer rowing sessions. "The seat glides effortlessly across the beam," said one tester. "The handle is comfortable to hold because it's smooth, not too bulky and possesses a slight curvature and downward angle."

The experience is quiet as well. "I really like how the machine is practically silent except for the sound of the seat moving back and forth. I have roommates, so the silent machine is perfect if I want to get a late-night workout in or if I do not want to disturb others," one person noted.

TAKE NOTE: Overall, the personalized form breakdown is what makes this rower great, and it's like having a coach review your performance in real time. But is that worth over $3K? I'd say the Peloton Row is best suited for those who are already committed to the Peloton platform and want the same high-quality instructor-led experience, but in a rowing format. If you're already a seasoned rower and have your form down, then this might be more machine than you truly need.

If you're intrigued by the Hydrow experience but not quite ready to commit to the full-size machine (or its price tag), the newer Hydrow Wave is a smart, more compact alternative. It's about 30% smaller and lighter than the original Pro model, which made a difference for me in terms of space. I tested it in our facility gym, next to the Hydrow Pro, and both offer a sleek, impressive design. However, the Wave is more portable and ideal for apartments or tight workout spaces. A big bonus is that it comes in a range of vibrant colors, which is a nice change from the standard black and silver aesthetic of most cardio machines.

TESTING NOTES: Setup was straightforward, easy to follow and clear. "It was a great process overall and quite painless," said one tester. Like the original model, the Wave requires a monthly membership to access its full content library, but I think the subscription is where this rower really shines. You get over 5,000 on-demand workouts, all filmed in scenic locations with instructors who are equal parts skilled and motivational. Many of them are champion rowers or Olympians, which gives the sessions an elevated, professional feel without being intimidating.

I especially like the built-in 16-inch display, which is smaller than the original Hydrow Pro but still crystal clear and responsive. One tester said, "This really elevates the Hydrow Wave to the next level and makes the whole workout experience feel very interactive. I love the journey sessions because I get to explore riverlands and bodies of water around the world." I felt the same way, since it turns a typical cardio session into something genuinely immersive.

TAKE NOTE: The rowing motion itself is smooth and quiet, although it is slightly louder than that of the Hydrow Pro. It offers both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and the overall feel of the machine is solid and stable. One thing to keep in mind is that it accommodates inseams up to 36 inches, so if you're particularly tall, it may not be the best fit.

I was intrigued by Aviron's rower when I first came across it because it combines both air and magnetic resistance to better mimic the sensation of rowing through water. While it's definitely a premium machine, it comes in at a lower price point than the Peloton Row and is fairly comparable to the Hydrow in terms of cost.

This machine's polished, modern design looks and feels like a high-end rower, and the 22-inch rotating touchscreen is easily the star of the show. It's vibrant, responsive and opens up an entirely new way to experience rowing. If you opt into the $25 monthly membership, you get access to a wide range of interactive content, like rowing-specific video games, virtual races, scenic routes and guided workouts.

TESTING NOTES: Here's what really set it apart for me: You can stream your favorite platforms while you row (think Netflix, Disney+, Hulu and more, all built in). Streaming your favorite shows while breaking a sweat can help the time pass by, and it's one of the best integrations I've seen in a connected fitness machine.

From a performance standpoint, the Strong Series offers 16 levels of resistance, combining the smooth adjustability of magnetic resistance with the natural feel of an air rower. The magnetic system offers resistance of up to 100 pounds, providing a substantial challenge for strength-focused rowing or intense interval training. Additionally, the machine felt solid and stable throughout every stroke, whether cruising or pushing to its limits. One tester told us, "I took quite a few power strokes during my workout, and the machine felt smooth and sturdy. Even with the broad available resistance range, it's quieter than other rowers on the market."

TAKE NOTE: Another standout is that it accommodates users up to 6'8", which is a huge pro if you're on the taller side or have a household with a wide range of users. That said, it's still an investment, and if you don't care about the connected features, this may be more than you need. I appreciate that Aviron also offers a lower-cost option with no built-in screen, but with a tablet holder, allowing you to stream your favorite shows or follow along with the app.

This Good Housekeeping Fitness Award winner surprised me with its versatility. It's not just a rower; it also functions as a Pilates reformer and strength trainer thanks to its versatile attachments. You're essentially getting three pieces of equipment in one compact footprint, which makes it a great option for smaller home gym setups. For me, this all-in-one functionality stood out immediately, especially if you're someone who enjoys variety in your workouts.

The machine caters to low-impact exercise, so whether I was rowing or doing resistance band work, everything felt smooth and easy on the joints. You can perform hundreds of different exercises on this machine, allowing you to truly get a full-body workout.

TESTING NOTES: From a performance standpoint, the water tank resistance provides a satisfying, realistic rowing feel. One certified rowing instructor we worked with raved that it's "durable, efficient and effective, and it feels and looks great," and I found the same to be true. Even though the machine is relatively lightweight without water, it felt stable during all types of movements, and supports up to 450 pounds, which is more than most rowers on the market. It also accommodates users up to 6'9", making it a great fit for taller athletes or multi-user households.

One thing to note is that there is no built-in touchscreen. There is a tablet holder, allowing you to stream content from your smart device. I didn't mind this, since it keeps the machine more affordable and gives you flexibility with how you use it. You can pair the rower with the LIT app for guided classes across all categories, including rowing, strength, Pilates and recovery (about $25/month). On days when I wanted to move at my own pace, I opted for a scenic row or just went freestyle — it gives you the freedom to train how you want, which I appreciate.

TAKE NOTE: And if you're wondering about maintenance, it's surprisingly simple: Just drop in a water treatment tablet once a year (it comes with the machine), and that's it. And if you don't need all the fancy attachments for corresponding Pilates workouts, you can opt for the base model, which includes just the rower and some included resistance bands.