10 Best Foldable Rowing Machine 2025 in the United States

The Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine is a foldable rowing machine designed for home use, featuring a 16” HD touchscreen and built-in speakers. It uses magnetic resistance, which provides a smooth and adjustable workout experience and helps simulate the feel of on-the-water rowing. This makes it a suitable choice for those looking for a more immersive and engaging workout session. The machine's build quality is robust, with an aluminum frame capable of supporting up to 375 pounds. It also includes comfort-enhancing features like a padded seat, adjustable foot straps, and a low-stress grip handle, ensuring a comfortable workout for users of various sizes and fitness levels.

One significant advantage is its foldability; it can be stored upright using a separate storage kit, making it ideal for home settings with limited space. However, this kit must be purchased separately. The machine weighs 102 pounds, which is relatively lightweight for its category, further aiding in its maneuverability when not in use. The Hydrow Wave's noise level is minimal, thanks to its magnetic resistance mechanism, making it a good option for those living in shared spaces or apartments.

On the downside, the machine requires a monthly membership fee of $44 to access its full range of over 5,000 workouts and instructor-led classes, which might be a recurring cost to consider. Additionally, while the machine offers excellent compatibility with Bluetooth devices like Apple Watch and wireless headphones, it is corded electric, which might limit placement options near power outlets. The Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine is a high-quality, space-saving option with advanced features that cater well to fitness enthusiasts looking for a comprehensive and interactive rowing experience at home.

The Merach Rowing Machine Q1S is a well-rounded option for those seeking a foldable rowing machine for home use. One of its standout features is the magnetic resistance system, which offers 16 levels of quiet operation, making it a great choice for early morning or late-night workouts without disturbing others. The dual slide rail design enhances stability and can support users up to 350 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of body types and fitness levels.

The machine's build quality is solid, thanks to its alloy steel construction, ensuring durability over time. Comfort is well addressed, with ergonomic seat dimensions and smooth rowing motion mimicking real water rowing, reducing the risk of tipping over during intense sessions. Additionally, its foldability and built-in wheels make it easy to store and move around, which is a big plus for those with limited space.

The included LCD monitor and app compatibility (MERACH and KINOMAP) provide valuable workout data such as distance, time, calories burned, and heart rate, helping users track their progress effectively. Assembly is straightforward, usually taking around 30 minutes, which is convenient for most users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Merach Rowing Machine Q1S offers an impressive combination of quiet operation, stability, and ease of use, making it a compelling choice for home fitness enthusiasts seeking a reliable and space-saving rowing machine.

The Hydrow Pro Rowing Machine stands out in the foldable rowing machine category with its impressive features designed for an engaging at-home workout experience. One of its main strengths is the large 22” HD rotating screen that immerses users in live and on-demand workouts. The machine’s design mimics on-water rowing, using electromagnetic resistance that offers a smooth and quiet experience, which is perfect for home use without disturbing others.

Comfort is a priority with a padded seat, adjustable foot straps, and an ergonomic handle, making it suitable for a variety of users. It supports a maximum weight of 375 pounds, catering well to different body types. When it comes to storage, the machine can be stored upright, although you'll need to purchase an additional Upright Storage Kit for that feature.

However, there are drawbacks to consider. The requirement of a monthly membership fee of $44 for access to workouts can add up over time, making it a more significant investment if you’re not committed to regular use. Additionally, while the rowing machine itself is built with durable materials, its weight of 145 pounds may be cumbersome for some users to move or adjust frequently. In terms of display and monitoring, the built-in metrics for tracking distance, time, calories burned, and stroke count provide valuable feedback, but the reliance on technology may not appeal to everyone. The price point, while reflective of the premium features, may not be suitable for those on a tighter budget.