How to Pick the Best Budget Rowing Machine for You
When it comes to choosing a rowing machine, it’s essential to consider your needs and preferences. 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.
How to Pick the Best Budget Rowing Machine for You
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:
- Price: 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.
- Type of rower: 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 level: "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."
- Size: "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."
- Environment: 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.
- Maintenance and durability: 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 stopping 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: Features vary from rower to rower; here, a few factors to take into consideration when shopping for a machine that best fits your needs:
FAQs
- Is it worth buying a cheap rowing machine?
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. - How much do budget rowing machines cost?
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. - Is 20 minutes a day on a rowing machine enough?
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. - What is the best type of rowing machine for beginners?
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." - What type of resistance is best on a rowing machine?
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. - Are budget rowing machines reliable?
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.