10 Best Affordable Rowing Machine 2025 in the United States

The MERACH Bluetooth Magnetic Rower Machine is a solid option for home use, especially considering its affordability. It features 16 levels of electromagnetic resistance, offering a stable and smooth rowing experience. This type of resistance is quieter and more consistent compared to traditional magnetic resistance, which can be beneficial for those living in shared spaces or apartments. The dual slide rail design enhances stability, and its aluminum frame adds to the durability, supporting a weight capacity of up to 350 pounds.

Comfort is ensured with a smooth and quiet magnetic flywheel system, which reduces noise and makes workouts more pleasant. The rowing machine is also user-friendly, thanks to its easy assembly process and convenient storage options, including built-in wheels that allow for upright storage to save space. The monitor displays essential metrics such as speed, calories burned, time, stroke count, and distance, helping users track their progress. Additionally, it is app-compatible, with the MERACH app providing free courses and programmed exercises to enhance the rowing experience.

On the downside, the display is powered by AAA batteries, which may require periodic replacements. While the machine is mostly pre-assembled, some users might find the final assembly steps slightly challenging without prior experience with fitness equipment. The MERACH rowing machine offers good value for money, making it suitable for individuals seeking an effective and budget-friendly workout solution at home.

The Concept2 RowErg is a well-built indoor rowing machine that uses air resistance, which provides a smooth and natural rowing feel. Its adjustable damper lets you change the resistance to match your fitness level, making it versatile for both beginners and experienced users. The frame combines aluminum and steel, offering durability and a solid feel, and it supports a heavy user weight of up to 500 pounds, which is generous compared to many other machines in its category. Comfort-wise, it features a 14-inch seat height suitable for most users, along with adjustable footrests and an ergonomic handle that help maintain comfortable rowing posture during longer workouts. The included Performance Monitor 5 is a standout feature, offering clear, accurate feedback on your rowing session with options to track pace, watts, and calories, while also connecting wirelessly to apps and heart rate monitors via Bluetooth and ANT+, adding a modern touch to your workout experience.

The size and storage are thoughtfully addressed: the machine measures 96 by 24 inches during use but easily splits into two pieces with caster wheels, making it more manageable to move and store, even in smaller spaces. Although the flywheel design is relatively quiet, air resistance machines can be noisier than magnetic alternatives, which might be a consideration if you live in a shared space or apartment. Additionally, the price may be higher compared to some entry-level rowing machines, but the build quality and performance data justify this for many serious users. The monitor requires two D cell batteries, which is typical but something to keep in mind for maintenance.

This rowing machine is an excellent choice if you want a durable and reliable device for full-body workouts, especially if you appreciate detailed performance tracking and expect to use it regularly. It suits a wide range of users from beginners to advanced rowers who need a strong, comfortable, and well-supported workout device.

The YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine stands out as a solid choice for those seeking an affordable option for home fitness. One of its key strengths is the magnetic resistance system, which allows for a smooth and quiet rowing experience—great for maintaining peace at home while exercising. With 16 levels of resistance, it caters to users of different fitness levels, making it suitable for both beginners and more advanced exercisers. The machine supports a maximum weight of 350 pounds and is designed to accommodate taller users (up to 6'7"), which is a big plus for larger individuals who may struggle to find suitable equipment.

Comfort is another highlight, thanks to its ergonomic seat and sturdy build from heavy-duty steel. This ensures durability and a comfortable workout session, reducing the risk of strain during use. Additionally, the large LCD monitor provides clear feedback on your rowing metrics, and the tablet holder allows for entertainment during workouts, which can make exercising more enjoyable.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The machine weighs nearly 70 pounds, which may be cumbersome for some users to move or store, despite its foldable feature. While the quiet operation is a benefit, some users might prefer a more tactile feedback during their workout. Additionally, while the monitor provides essential data, it may lack some advanced tracking features found in higher-end models.