Top 5 Best Indoor Rowing Machines 2023


If you’re looking for the best rowing machine, you’ll want to choose one that is durable, easy to use, and provides a smooth and comfortable rowing experience. You’ll also want to consider the features that are most important to you, such as programmable workouts, Bluetooth connectivity, and adjustable resistance levels.

After researching and testing the most popular rowing machines, I’ve identified the top five models that offer the best combination of performance, features, and value. Whether you’re a serious athlete or just looking to improve your fitness level, one of these rowing machines is sure to meet your needs and help you achieve your goals.

After using all these indoor rowing machines, I decided to buy the Concept2 rower. For me, it’s the perfect balance of price and quality and is the most popular on the market. It has many of the features of the high-end rowing machine and it’s never let me down, I always get excited about using it.

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1. Most Popular Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine

If you’re looking for a reliable and effective rowing machine, then the Concept2 Model D is a great option. It’s by far the most popular indoor rower and it is the best on the market. However, this is reflected in the price but the sell on price is very good if you want to upgrade in the future.

What I like

  • The low-impact workout engages all major muscle groups, providing a smooth, high-calorie-burning motion.
  • The Performance Monitor 5 tracks your progress with real-time reliable data, and the monitor self-calibrates for comparable results. You can also connect wirelessly to heart rate belts and apps (not included).
  • The machine is designed to fit most users, with adjustable footrests, an ergonomic handle, and a 14-inch seat height.

What I don’t like

  • The machine is quite large, with a recommended space of 9 x 4 feet, and it weighs over 50 pounds.
  • Some users may require an extra-long monorail if they have an inseam of 38 inches or more.
  • The machine is quite expensive compared to some other rowing machines on the market.

I recently purchased the Concept2 Model D from Amazon and have been using it for a few weeks now. I have found it to be a very effective and engaging workout, providing a full-body workout that is low-impact and easy on the joints.

The machine is very easy to assemble, with only eight screws required, and it separates easily into two pieces for storage. The caster wheels also make it easy to move around.

One of the things that I really like about the Concept2 Model D is the Performance Monitor 5, which provides real-time data on your workout and makes it easy to track your progress over time.

The monitor is very easy to use and provides a lot of helpful information, including your pace, watts, and calories burned. I also appreciate that the monitor self-calibrates for comparable results, so I know that I am getting accurate data.

The machine itself is very well-designed, with adjustable footrests and an ergonomic handle that make it comfortable to use for extended periods of time. The 14-inch seat height is also very comfortable, and I appreciate that the machine is designed to fit most users.

The only downside is that the machine is quite large, so you will need a fair amount of space to use it effectively.

[amazon box=”B00NH9WEUA” Title=”Top Pick Concept 2 Rower”]

2. Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine

If you’re looking for a full-body workout machine that provides an immersive rowing experience, the Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine is definitely worth considering. 

What I like

  • The electromagnetic drag technology makes every workout feel like you’re rowing on the water, engaging more than 86% of major muscle groups in high-energy, low-impact workouts.
  • With over 4,000 exclusive full-body workouts on the Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine or the Hydrow app, you’ll never run out of options.
  • The crystal-clear 16″ high-def touchscreen display and front-facing speakers create a truly immersive rowing experience.

What I don’t like

  • This foldable rowing machine is quite heavy, and should be lifted or carried by more than one person.
  • Expert in-home assembly is also available for purchase for an additional charge.
  • You need to subscribe to their online service to get the most out of your workouts.

The Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine is a well-built piece of equipment that provides an excellent, low-impact workout. The monthly membership unlocks a variety of workouts led by world-class athletes in amazing settings across the globe.

The rower itself is streamlined black polycarbonate with an exposed internal mechanism, padded seat, adjustable footstraps, and a low-stress grip handle. It can be stored upright using their Vertical Anchor (sold separately) and is perfect for at-home workouts. 

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality rowing machine that provides an immersive workout experience, the Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine is definitely worth the investment.

[amazon box=”B0BHLXDZ2N” Title=”Hydrow Wave Rower”]

3. YOSUDA Magnetic/Water Rowing Machine

If you’re looking for a rowing machine that provides a full-body workout, is super quiet, and doesn’t take up too much space in your home, then the YOSUDA Magnetic/Water Rowing Machine is a great option to consider.

What I like

  • Assembly is quick and easy and can be done in just 20 minutes with only 10 screws.
  • The magnetic resistance system is incredibly smooth and nearly silent, making it perfect for indoor exercise.
  • The machine engages 90% of your muscle groups, providing a full-body workout that’s perfect for weight-loss, body-shaping, and strength training.

What I don’t like

  • The LCD monitor could be more advanced and doesn’t provide as much information as some other models.
  • The machine is designed for users up to 6’6″ in height, so taller users may find it a bit cramped.
  • The 10lbs flywheel may not provide enough resistance for advanced users who are looking for a more challenging workout.

The YOSUDA Magnetic/Water Rowing Machine is made of heavy-duty commercial quality steel, making it sturdy and durable. It also comes with a comfortable and ergonomic seat, as well as a large LCD monitor that displays your distance, rowing time, count, total count, and calories burned.

Plus, the machine is foldable and has wheels, making it easy to move and store when not in use. Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and effective rowing machine that provides a full-body workout, the YOSUDA Magnetic/Water Rowing Machine is definitely worth considering.

[amazon box=”B095JR2FTV” Title=”YOSUDA Rower”]

4. Echelon Smart Rowing Machine

If you’re looking for an effective and challenging rowing workout, the Echelon Smart Rowing Machine is a great option. With its foldable design, sophisticated engineering, and rotating console, this rower has everything you need for a total-body workout that challenges you in all the right ways.

Plus, the free 30-day trial of the Echelon Premier Membership gives you access to more than 3,000 live and on-demand connected fitness classes led by the world’s best instructors through the Echelon Fit App. 

What I like

  • The device holder swivels 90° and flips 180° for off-row workouts.
  • The 32 silent magnetic resistance levels offer a low-impact workout that is equal parts challenging and dynamic.
  • The built-in wheels make it easy to move the rower where you need it.

What I don’t like

  • The instructions for set up could be more detailed.
  • The seat could be more comfortable for longer workouts.
  • The app and membership can be overwhelming with so many options.

As someone who has used the Echelon Smart Rowing Machine, I can confidently say that it is a great investment for anyone looking to get a challenging and effective rowing workout in the comfort of their own home.

The device holder that swivels and flips makes it easy to use the rower for off-row workouts, and the 32 resistance levels offer a workout that is both challenging and dynamic. Plus, the built-in wheels make it easy to move the rower where you need it.

However, the instructions for set up could be more detailed, and the seat could be more comfortable for longer workouts. Additionally, the app and membership can be overwhelming with so many options, but with a little bit of time, it’s easy to navigate and find the classes that work best for you.

Overall, I highly recommend the Echelon Smart Rowing Machine for anyone looking to get a great rowing workout at home.

[amazon box=”B086JQ5ZT3″ Title=”Echelon Smart Rower”]

5. Row Warrior Air Rowing Machine

Looking for a high-quality rowing machine that’s perfect for home use? Look no further than the Row Warrior Air Rowing Machine! With its 10 preset damper levels, LED monitor, and compact design, this machine is ideal for anyone looking to get a full-body workout in the comfort of their own home.

What I like

  • Get a low-impact, full-body workout that’s perfect for people of all fitness levels
  • Choose from 10 preset damper levels to customize your workout to your needs
  • Monitor your progress with the LED monitor, which also features Bluetooth connectivity for your fitness and heart rate trackers

What I don’t like

  • Some users may find that the machine doesn’t offer enough resistance for strength training purposes
  • The machine can be somewhat noisy during use, which may be a concern for some users
  • Assembly can be somewhat challenging, particularly for those who aren’t mechanically inclined

If you’re looking for a high-quality rowing machine that’s perfect for home use, the Row Warrior Air Rowing Machine is definitely worth considering. With its durable stainless steel and alloy construction, 10 preset damper levels, and LED monitor, this machine is perfect for anyone looking to get a full-body workout in the comfort of their own home.

However, it’s worth noting that some users may find that the machine doesn’t offer enough resistance for strength training purposes, and that assembly can be somewhat challenging.

Additionally, the machine can be somewhat noisy during use, which may be a concern for some users. Overall, though, the Row Warrior Air Rowing Machine is a great choice for anyone looking to get in shape and stay healthy.

[amazon box=”B0B3TTNMT9″ Title=”Row Warrior”]

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