The 7 Best Budget Rowing Machines in 2024

Thanks to indoor rowing machines, you don’t need to live near a body of water to reap the fitness benefits of paddling your heart out. “Rowing is such a well-rounded workout because it’s low-impact but still offers a lot of intensity,” trainer Sina Riemann, a NASM-certified personal trainer, tells SELF. “It works almost every major muscle group—especially the legs, core, and back, so you’re getting both strength and cardio without stressing your joints. It’s also great for building endurance, coordination, and improving posture since it activates a lot of postural muscles.” And having an erg in your home gym doesn’t have to empty your wallet; the best budget rowing machines offer everything you need for your workout: an ergonomic seat, range of resistance levels, immersive programming, and more.

We asked experts in the field—trainers, rowing coaches, and more—their favorite rowing machines, and then put their picks to the test. Keep reading to find the best rowing machine for your home and budget: These quality machines are between $400 and $1800 (but regular sales bring most numbers way below $1,000).

Top picks for the best rowing machines

• Best Budget Rowing Machine Overall: NordicTrack RW600 Rower
• Best Smart Budget Rowing Machine: Sole SR550
• Best Magnetic Budget Rowing Machine: ProForm Pro 750R Rower
• Best Folding Budget Rowing Machine: Echelon Row-S Rower
• Best Budget Water Rowing Machine: Yosuda Water Rowing Machine
• Best Air Rowing Machine: Concept2 RowErg
• Best Budget Rowing Machine Under $500: Sunny Health & Fitness Multifunction Full Body Magnetic Rowing Machine

• Has an AutoAdjust resistance feature (when you use iFit workouts)
• Quiet, thanks to magnetic resistance
• Front wheels make it easier to move

• Machine does not fold
• Screen is on the small side

Why we picked it: The NordicTrack RW600 offers many of the features you’d find in a top-tier magnetic rowing machine, like customizable resistance and a small but mighty touchscreen—but it’s a fraction of the cost. This machine is compatible with iFit programming, which Riemann says offers “a ton of interactive workouts, guided classes, and scenic routes—perfect if you like variety.”

Our fave features: “I like that the NordicTrack has a screen that can engage the athlete as they row,” says Jen Kates, NASM-CPT, an ACE-Certified Health Coach and CrossFit Level 2 Trainer. “This makes it a lot more entertaining to spend longer periods of time on the rower, which can make you more consistent in showing up for your workouts.” The erg also has AutoAdjust resistance that syncs with the iFit programming, so you don’t need to pause your workout to do it yourself. Plus, you can watch other streaming content via the iFit app while you row.

Who it’s for: Rowers of all levels, but especially beginners who are looking for features generally reserved for higher-end machines. “It’s solid if you’re looking for a versatile rower,” says Riemann. “It has a sleek design. It’s also pretty quiet because of the magnetic resistance, which is great for home workouts. Plus, the seat and handle are designed for comfort, so longer sessions are no problem.”

Just so you know: While the RW600 doesn’t fold, you can use its wheels to move it to a corner and pivot it upright. And while iFit programming offers a ton of classes and the ability to use the AutoAdjust feature, it does require a monthly subscription fee. You can opt to use this erg without iFit, but you’ll be limited to manual mode and will need to adjust the resistance yourself.

Best Smart Budget Rowing Machine: Sole SR550

• Smooth, quiet, comfortable ride
• Simple and intuitive tech
• Resistance controls are built into the handlebars
• Not difficult to move for storage
• Uniquely high seat height makes getting on and off easier
• Higher weight capacity than most

• Foot straps were difficult to adjust, according to our tester

Why we picked it: Our testers say this smooth-rowing machine from Sole, which features both air and magnetic resistance, feels like a higher-end magnetic rower. “It’s known for its durability, and the dual system gives a nice balance between smoothness and intensity,” says Riemann. We love that it includes a simple, intuitive display that shows a range of metrics and gives you access to a bunch of programmed workouts—without a subscription. (It can connect to Netflix and other streaming apps too, if you’d rather row your way through your latest binge-watch.) “It was very straightforward and basic, which I can appreciate because I don’t really want to sit there and try to program a whole machine when I just want to row,” our tester says.

Our fave features: We’re into how easy it is to change the resistance on this machine. “There is adjustment availability on the handlebars,” our tester says. “You can also change it on the screen, and it didn’t skip around or feel like it lagged.” Our reviewers also love that this rower folds up for easy storage, especially given how large it is when expanded. And with a higher seat height, it’s a good option for folks who have a hard time getting in and out of other rowers (or for anyone who’d rather not drop it like it’s hot to mount their rower).

Just so you know: “The foot straps are almost impossible to tighten up and loosen, making it really difficult to get a good foot position,” one tester says.

Best Magnetic Budget Rowing Machine: ProForm Pro 750R Rower

• Testers didn’t feel any wobbling while rowing
• Offers auto-adjust resistance during iFit classes
• Folds upright for easy storage
• Cushioned handlebars make gripping easier and more comfortable

• No integrated display means you use your own device to stream workouts

Why we picked it: The ProForm Pro 750R Rower’s solid construction, simple but useful tech (like Bluetooth compatibility, auto-adjust resistance capability, dual two-inch speakers), and folding function for space-saving storage make it worth your attention. But our testers particularly like the smooth and quiet ride it offers, courtesy of the brand’s Silent Magnetic Resistance system. Its ergonomics are top-notch, too, which means it’ll be comfortable for longer rows and easy on your body over time. “The seat is contoured and cushioned—it was very comfortable for me,” one tester says. “The handlebars are also cushioned, and are easy to grip and use.”

Who it’s for: If you’ve got your heart set on a magnetic rower with some tech features but don’t want to pay over $1,500, this is the machine for you.. It also works well for those with limited space, as it folds in half for storage. (Learning how to fold it may take a second, though, according to our tester.)

Just so you know: In order to stream the compatible iFit workouts (which require an additional monthly membership fee), you’ll need to use your own device; the 750R’s screen only displays simple workout metrics.

Best Folding Budget Rowing Machine: Echelon Row-S Rower

• Large, easy-to-use swivel touchscreen
• Stabilizers keep the machine from shaking during workouts
• Quiet

• Can be tricky to adjust the resistance
• Not the most comfortable seat
• Subscription required for full programming

Why we picked it: Rowers take up a lot of space, can be awkward to move around, and might be tricky to stow away. We love that the Row-s solves for these concerns with a simple two-step folding design and front wheels. “The average person could move this without an issue,” our tester says. “It’s easy to store upright.”

Our fave features: The Echelon Row-s’s 22-inch HD touchscreen swivels 180-degrees, which means you can also use the display to lead you through off-rower workouts. But to access those yoga, strength, and cardio workouts, you’ll need to pay for an Echelon Fit membership. Our tester loves the app’s range of modalities and that Echelon's programming caters to different fitness levels. Another tester liked that the Echelon Fit app allows you to watch content from your Netflix, Hulu and other streaming accounts while you row.

Just so you know: If you don’t sign up for Echelon Fit, you’ll only be able to use the rower manually.

Best Budget Water Rowing Machine: Yosuda Water Rowing Machine

• Lightweight enough to easily to move around
• Smooth to use

• No pre-programmed workouts, and limited compatibility with fitness apps
• Changing the baseline resistance requires adding or removing water from the tank
• Louder due to water resistance

Why we picked it: Water rowers are able to mimic the feeling and sound of paddling in the great outdoors because they use real-deal H2O swishing against the flywheel to create resistance. If you’re looking for a water rower, it’s hard to beat the price on this version from Yosuda. “I really like this rower and would definitely use it again,” our tester says. “It had all the basic necessities you need in a rower and was comfortable—I enjoyed the flow of the machine and felt like it was really smooth.” Riemann agrees, calling this machine’s realistic water feel “meditative.”

Our fave features: In addition to the smooth row, the Yosuda is lightweight and easy to move and stow away. “This stores upright and it’s pretty compact, so if you need it in a smaller space, I think it’s perfect for that,” one tester says.

Just so you know: This isn’t a high-tech machine. “There’s just a small display screen that shows your basic stats,” one tester says. “You can change it from miles to kilometers if you prefer, but other than that, there isn’t a lot of customizations that you can make to the technology portion of this.” Programming options are also limited, as the machine is only compatible with two apps. To use them, you need your phone, which fits onto a holder atop the monitor.

Best Air Rowing Machine: Concept2 RowErg

• Stable while using
• Features a space-saving, portable design
• Easy to assemble, according to testers
• Has the highest weight capacity of all options on this list
• Contoured seat and handlebar grip make workouts more comfortable

• Air resistance system can be loud
• Has minimal programming

Why we picked it: The Concept2 RowErg already has the seal of approval from Olympic rowers—so it’s no surprise our testers cosign. “I love this rower,” says one tester. “It’s my favorite air-resistance rower by far, but also may be my favorite rower out of the rowers I’ve used…it’s just a really good rower all-around for anyone looking for a good workout that can be very intense if you want.” (More on this “choose your own intensity” component of air rowers below.) Asiya Mahmud, Head Rowing Coach for the University of Delaware calls it “tried and true.”

Our fave features: Mahmud likes the simplicity of the monitor, which she says can show you beginner-friendly stats, such as stroke rate and split, or to get into “technical nitty gritty, like power force application.”

Who it’s for: This rower is a solid, expert-tested option for any rower at any training level, so long as they prefer an air resistance system. “Might feel intense for casual rowers, though,” says Riemann. That said, the machine’s variable resistance means that the harder you row, the more resistance you will automatically encounter—so those who want a lighter workout can adjust accordingly.

• Quiet to use
• Can use for standing row exercises
• Includes free programming

• Display is a simple digital monitor (think: an old-school pedometer)
• Seat isn’t contoured
• Folding requires minor disassembly

Why we picked it: This $300 magnetic rower is stable, sturdy, and durable. “Overall, the construction of this rower was pretty solid, considering the cost,” one tester says. She describes this machine as “perfect if you’re looking for a low-end rower that will still get the job done.” Reimann agrees: “It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles, but it’s a great starter machine,” she says.

Our favorite features: Reviewers are impressed by how easy this machine is to assemble. One of our testers also likes that the footholds are easy to slide into and adjust. “They got tight enough to where my foot felt secure in the hold,” she says.

Just so you know: Our testers didn’t think the seat on this machine was all that comfortable. “I would really love for the seat to be contoured and cushioned, because it makes for more of an enjoyable ride,” one tester says. Some reviewers also say the resistance isn’t as strong as they’d like, even at the highest level.

When purchasing a large piece of exercise equipment, quality matters. But that doesn’t mean you necessarily have to spend big. “A budget rower is a great option for folks who may not be able to afford a higher-end rowing machine,” says Kates. You’ll be able to do the namesake row movement on any budget machine, which is the most important part of the workout!

When comparing budget machines to higher-end rowers, Kates says you may see differences in durability, noise volume, the quality of the drivetrain (a.k.a. the part of the rower that drives the rowing movement), and technology. So, it’s important to assess how important any of those qualities are to you before picking a budget rower. For instance, if you couldn’t care less about programming and built-in streaming capability, you might be fine to opt for a lower-end model. “Knowing whether you want to come up with your own workouts or find a machine that provides instruction is an important differentiator,” Mahmud says.

She adds that it’s important to think about how often you’ll use the machine; if you plan to row hard seven days a week, you may want to invest in a machine that features better resistance, ergonomic designs, and a smoother row. But if you’re more of an occasional rower, or you’re a beginner, a slightly less advanced machine may work just fine. “Budget rowing machines are great if you’re just starting out and aren’t sure if rowing is going to be a long-term thing for you,” agrees Riemann.

Even when narrowing your search for the best rower to the most affordable options, there’s no shortage of models from which to pick. Here are the features experts specifically recommend considering before you buy:

Rowing machines can range in price from a few hundred dollars (the cheapest on our list is the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine, on sale for $250) to well over $3,000. Our list of budget-friendly options has a price ceiling of $1,800 retail—but most are often on sale for closer to $1,000 (or much less). The price tag tends to rise as the list of included product features expands, so it’s important to decide which features you need and which you are willing to leave behind.

The good news is that you can get a quality rower on the lower end of the price spectrum. “Rowers come at all price points, and higher cost doesn’t always mean better,” says Bradford Stevens NASM-CPT, director and founding instructor of Sole+ Studios.

Before you start shopping, it’s important to understand the differences between the various types of rowers so you can decide which is best for you. Each type—air, water, magnetic—has a different resistance mechanism. Here’s what to know about each type.

“Resistance on a rowing machine is the pressure felt on the cable that connects the handle to the machine, and it varies by machine type,” Stevens says. “For example, magnetic rowers can offer both consistent and adjustable resistance, while water or air rowers have resistance that naturally eases as you complete each stroke. Not all machines have adjustable resistance—some, like water rowers, let you change the water level [which increases or decreases resistance], but it’s not a quick adjustment.”

“Rowing machines are long, with a larger footprint than a bike or treadmill,” says Stevens. “Most can stand upright or fold up, but check if your space has enough floor length and ceiling height to store it vertically or position it when flat.”

Some rowers, particularly those with built-in monitors, may need to be kept in a climate-controlled environment to avoid potential issues with the electronics, says Stevens.

According to Stevens, some machines may require more frequent maintenance than others, especially if they’re stored in a garage or used outdoors. Some water rowers also require flushing out and cleaning the tank and to stop any bacteria growth. “Check reviews to see how well different models hold up over time and what type of maintenance they need,” Stevens says.

Features vary from rower to rower; here, a few factors to take into consideration when shopping for a machine that best fits your needs:

Because good customer support can be “invaluable,” Stevens suggests looking into how easy it is to get help from the manufacturer when you need it. “It may make a difference if you run into any issues,” he says. Riemann also recommends checking the return policy, just in case something major goes wrong or you change your mind.

Warranties can be especially important on a less expensive rower, says Kates. “A cheaper piece of equipment may be manufactured using less resilient materials, so its longevity may be questionable,” she says.

Some budget rowers require more assembly than others. “Check if it’s easy to put together, because assembly can be a pain,” says Riemann. Reading reviews can be helpful here.

Below, find a few categories we specifically took into account while evaluating budget rowing machines. And for more detail on everything we consider before recommending a piece of equipment, check out our full fitness testing methodology.

This depends on your personal preferences. “More expensive machines tend to be more geared towards connected fitness, while less expensive lets you choose your adventure,” Mahmud says. Riemann adds that budget models can be great for beginners, but if you’re planning to row regularly or want a smoother, quieter ride, you might want to invest more in a higher-quality machine.

Our list of budget rowing machines ranges in price from a few hundred dollars to $1,800—but most models are often on sale for closer to (or much less than) $1,000. The more expensive options include higher-tech features and programming capability, while the cheaper options are much simpler in function.

The World Health Organization recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, which shakes out to about 21 minutes per day. Mahmud adds that 20- to 30-minute workouts should help folks improve rowing skills.

Reimann recommends magnetic models for beginners, which she describes as simple and user-friendly. “They’re usually quieter, affordable, and easy to handle, which is great when you’re just getting into rowing,” she says. “Magnetic rowers are especially nice because the resistance is smooth and consistent, so you can focus on learning good form without overdoing it. Starting with something straightforward helps you build confidence and a solid routine without feeling overwhelmed.”

According to Stevens, there is no one type of resistance that’s best. “It’s about finding the one that matches your goals and preferences,” he says. Air rowers, like the Concept2 RowErg, offer variable resistance, which means the resistance increases the faster you row. Magnetic rowers, like the NordicTrack RW600, are much quieter, and they tend to offer more manually adjustable resistance levels than other types of rowers. And water rowers, like the Yosuda Water Rowing Machine, are great for those who want to simulate rowing on the water.

Budget machines can be reliable, but Stevens says that if you’re planning to use your rower a lot, you may want to invest a bit more in a durable machine. If you opt for a cheaper piece of equipment, it’s a good idea to check the warranty details before buying, so you’ll know what’s covered if something breaks down.

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