The 7 Best Rowing Machines for Your Gym, Tested by Fitness Experts

Over the past three years, we've tested every major rower on the market, yet the Concept2 RowErg still reigns supreme. Its high quality construction, easy assembly, and incredibly smooth ride make the RowErg the best in its class. And at this price point, we think it offers many of the same features as the best rowing machines that cost twice as much.In fact, this home gym equipment is an industry standard used by Crossfit and many high-profile competitions. Our fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. says this is his go-to rowing machine because it can blast your abs, glutes, and back while redlining your heart rate. "It's built for either long cardio workouts, or vicious high-intensity sessions," says Samuel.The RowErg has a durable construction that can support people up to 500 pounds. Our editors have been using the RowErg in their home gyms for years now, and found that it still works as good as new. We also appreciate the variable resistance flywheel, which provides a constant challenge. Our fitness editors say this feature is especially useful for high volume use and experienced rowers.It's easy to assemble, too. In our experience setting up this rower, all it takes is around 15 minutes, ideally two people, and minimal tools or hardware (just eight screws are required). I set mine up myself with no issue, and it didn't take any longer than 10 minutes. Not trying to brag or anything, but it was easy. (I posted a video about the assembly here). Plus, it separates into two pieces for carefree storage, making it deal for people with smaller home gym set ups.Yes, it lacks smart connectivity and the big beautiful LED screens found in newer models like the Hydrow, but if you're looking for a tough-as-nails machine that can keep up with your toughest workouts, the RowErg delivers the definitive home rowing experience. That's why it's our pick for the best rowing machine of 2026.Read More: Our Hands-On Review of the Concept2 RowErg"If I can’t use a Concept2, this is my go-to," says Samuel. The Hydrow Wave is a more streamlined and slimmed-down version of Hydrow's original Rower Connected Rowing Machine—and a 2025 Men's Health Fitness Awards winner. It's a smart machine with an HD screen that features immersive guided workouts to recreate a real-world rowing experience. And after using the Wave Rower for over a year now, we can attest that it delivers on that promise.The electromagnetic resistance is incredibly smooth and quiet, and Hydrow's armada of on-demand classes are surprisingly lifelike. "It feels as if you're out on the water, complete with videos shot on lakes and rivers," says Samuel. "The end result: a tranquil row seat." While other cardio machines we've tested got repetitive after a few weeks of use, Hydrow's video programs always kept things interesting.This rower fits easily in my basement training area, and can stand up for storage. Not only does it fold, but it looks good folded up. Despite the compact size, we've found the Wave is also SUPER-durable: I can go hard on this rower for sprints, or take on longer intervals without it struggling to keep up.We do wish this rower had a free mode to allow users to build their own workouts. Despite that, this is the best magnetic resistance rowing experience on the market. If you're someone who cares about the details and wants to learn from experts, this is the best pick for you.Hydrow's pricing is usually the same on Amazon as anywhere else, but if you want to see a full list of add-ons, you might want to purchase one on their website.Read More: Our Review of the Hydrow Wave RowerAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowWhether you're competing live against your peers, trying to out-row world-class athletes, or even being chased by a deadly Kraken, the Strong Series Rower is a fix to boring rowing workouts. Aside from the basics (like tracking performance stats), a massive and crisp definition 22-inch touchscreen allows for streaming content from Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, Spotify, and YouTube, as well as a library of interactive, performance-based video games.The tech was actually developed by game designers using game psychology, with the singular goal of encouraging rowing performance. The animated games are immersive and easy to learn, and incentivize players to increase output in creative ways.Aside from the gamified perks, one major feature of this machine is its 20-inch elevated seat, which makes it easy for beginners, older individuals, and those with limited mobility to get on and off the machine. It isn't as low to the ground as more traditional rowing machines, and is therefore more accessible for some people.The foot pedals are also more wide-set and larger than found on most rowers, which makes it feel more accessible for a range of users. For bigger individuals who typically feel crammed or awkward on a standard machine, this is for you. But that doesn't mean it takes up more room. In fact, this rower can be flipped upright easily and stored without a wall mount.Read More: Exercises to Improve Your RowingFeatures at a GlanceResistanceAir and magneticDisplayPivoting 22-in. HD touchscreenDimensions (L x W x H)84 x 27 x 48 in.StorageRolls on two wheels and stores upright without wall mountHeart Rate MonitorCompatible with any Bluetooth enabled heart rate monitorItem Weight114 lbsWeight Capacity507 lbsMembership Required?Not required for all features; additional features available for $25/monthSometimes simpler is just better. The made-in-the-USA design takes things back to basics with a vaguely vintage aesthetic of stained ash wood. There is no denying that in certain homes the aesthetic of a wooden water rower is just superior. This also makes it one of the most heavy-duty machines in this guide, supporting users up to 700 pounds.We found that the traditional water-based flywheel not only looks great, but does an incredible job of recreating the feel of rowing through real water. Users can fully customize the resistance by filling the water tank with more or less water, which can make a mess, but isn't difficult to do. Keep in mind you'll also need to treat the water on a consistent basis so it doesn't get moldy. At around $1,100, this model lacks the fancier gadgetry of the pricier models in our guide. So if you don't rely heavily on video classes or virtual instructors for your motivation then you can save a good amount by going with this simpler machine. Still, the integrated performance monitor tracks all the essentials.The absence of a screen also means that this piece of equipment can be be folded upright and stored easier than most, meaning it's perfect for putting away in closets or corners. For anyone looking for a durable, handsome rower without unnecessary bells and whistles at a good price, this is your pick. Features at a GlanceResistanceWaterDisplayLCDDimensions (L x W x H)83 x 24 x 21 in.StorageStores upright and has wheelsHeart rate monitorCompatible with optional heart rate chest strap and receiverItem Weight117 lbs (with water)Weight Capacity700 lbsMembership Required?NoAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowThe top-rated Ergatta Rower (a Men's Health Fitness Awards Winner) is all performance, complete with game-based workouts that challenge you daily. It's the most "gamified" water-based rowing machine we've tested with a long list of virtual workout programs to choose from. We took it for a spin with head-to-head races, high-intensity endurance workouts, and goal-based gamified training plans to get the full experience.We found this is one of the smoothest water rowers we've used, and the games are enough to keep things fun and interesting even when doing a basic workout. The game-based workouts felt like a much needed changeup from typical hard workouts on a Concept2, and are actually good for dialing in form.It also offers studio class workouts led by instructors from CityRow, if that's more your speed. In terms of the frame, the lone downside is that the feet are positioned a little more closely than we prefer. But on the plus side, rolling this model and folding it is easy. Not only that, but it looks cool even when folded up against the wall.The warm cherry wood feels extremely durable and gives the rower a sleek retro-modern aesthetic that elevated the look of our home gym space. It's among the priciest rowing machines in this guide, but if you're in the market for a top-of-the-line rower that doubles as a home accessory, it's hard to beat. Read More: Best Rowing GlovesFeatures at a GlanceResistanceWaterDisplay17.3-in. touchscreenDimensions (L x W x H)86 x 23 x 40 in.StorageCan be stored in the space of a barstool and wheeled around by one personHR MonitorBluetooth compatibleItem Weight103 lbsWeight Capacity500 lbsMembership Required?Yes; $29/monthLife Fitness machines are found in fitness clubs around the world. And for good reason: they're easy to use, beginner-friendly, suitable for advanced rowers, and built to last. Their latest product, the Heat Row is no exception. It's reasonably heavy at 108 pounds when filled with water, and folds in half easily to stow away when not in use.First off, allow me to rave a little bit about the foot straps on this Heat Row. I've secured myself into a number of rowers over the years, and often it can be a little tedious to get in or out. That can really throw a wrench into your workout, especially if you're looking to keep the pace up. These straps are extremely easy to ratchet into, and you can kick into your training right away. And when you're done, a quick flick of the wrist sets you free for your next exercise.Unlike some of the more high-tech models we tested, the simple stripped down design delivers ultra-smooth resistance without any finicky gadgetry. Changing the resistance is super simple and streamlined, with a knob that turns 300 degrees, and all you need to do is bend forward to turn it up to that next effort.Given the roughly $1,700 price tag, we're a little disappointed that this model lacks a built-in touchscreen display. However, personally I enjoy not having a huge display infront of my face during my workout. Everyone has a phone or an iPad, with all the classes or coaching that you need. Looking for a training app? Check out our story on the best fitness apps to use now. Because this is another rower without a screen, it stores upright easily. This is a solid pick for anyone who is looking for something a little more solid than the Concept2, but don't need any gimmicky technology.Features at a GlanceResistanceAir, MagneticDisplayPerformance Monitor LCDDimensions (L x W x H)85 x 28 x 47 in.StorageStores upright and has wheels; can be hung via wall mountHeart Rate MonitorBluetooth compatible; ANT+ connectivityItem Weight71 lbsWeight Capacity330 lbsMembership Required?NoAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowMen’s Health fitness writer and strength coach David Otey, C.S.C.S. took the Peloton Cross Training Row+ for a spin and confirmed that it’s set to give every rower in our guide—even the most goated rowing machines—a run for their money.Otey and MH fitness editors found both the seat and foot pedals extremely comfortable, and the foot strap secure yet easy to adjust with a single hand. Otey describes the strap’s pull as "silky smooth" without the annoying catching found in lesser rowers. We found that the electrically controlled resistance also makes for whisper-quiet operation.But the real star isn't its frame, "Peloton's best asset isn't its hardware; it's a great software company," says Otey. The tech on this machine delivers, with a Form Assist function that can help nearly any level rower achieve better form as they row.It’s not perfect, however. Otey notes that its most obvious shortcoming is the lack of an adjustable manual mode. This is a stark difference from many manual rowers, which shows Peloton is more confident in their programming and instructors than your ability to create your own workouts.The rower can be easily stored vertically against a wall, but requires an anchor to go into the wall for safety. This is perfect for any rowers looking for great classes and a well-built machine, especially if they are already Peloton fans.Features at a GlanceResistanceElectronicDisplay23.8-in. HD full-swivel touchscreenDimensions (L x W x H)94 x 24 x 48 in.StorageFolding arm for compact upright storageHeart Rate MonitorNo, can pair with ANT+ compatible HRMItem Weight156.5 lbsWeight Capacity300 lbsMembership Required?Yes, for full capability; $50/monthCharles Thorp is the Fitness and Reviews Editor at Men’s Health, where he shares the best product recommendations in gym equipment, recovery tools, supplements, and more. Following an early life in athletics, Charles became a NASM-certified trainer and began writing programs alongside the most respected coaches in the world. Since entering the world of fitness content, Charles has had the opportunity to learn from and train alongside high performance individuals from the NFL, UFC, NBA, Formula 1, CrossFit, US Olympics, and Navy SEALs. When he’s not writing about training programs or gear, he can be seen at the gym or in the wild, putting them to the test.David Otey, CSCS is a fitness writer, NYC-based strength coach, and Men's Health Advisory Board member who specializes in strength and hypertrophy protocols as well as athletic performance. For more on Otey check out www.oteyfitness.com.Ian Creighton is the Chief Marketing Officer at Honeycomb Wellness, formerly the general manager at Brick New York, the largest functional fitness facility in Manhattan, and a personal trainer to high level business executives, Hollywood movie producers, and actors. A recovering CrossFit addict, he now spends his time focused on optimizing longevity and takes a "functional bodybuilding" approach to training.