10 Best Affordable Rowing Machine 2025 in the United States

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.

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 Model D is a well-regarded indoor rowing machine that promises a comprehensive workout experience. It utilizes adjustable air resistance, which provides a smooth and consistent rowing feel while keeping noise levels to a minimum. The build quality is robust, featuring a combination of aluminum and stainless steel parts, which ensures durability and a high weight capacity of up to 500 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The ergonomic design includes adjustable footrests and a comfortable handle, contributing to a pleasant workout experience for most users. The seat height of 14 inches is standard and should be accessible for most people.

The included Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) is a standout feature, offering detailed and accurate workout metrics with the flexibility of Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, supporting over 40 apps for a more tailored fitness regime. The integrated device holder is a handy addition for those who like to use their smart devices during workouts. However, the machine's size is considerable, requiring a recommended space of 9x4 feet, which might be a constraint for those with limited space. Despite its size, it is designed for easy storage, as it can be separated into two pieces and has caster wheels for mobility. Weighing in at 57.32 pounds, it is not overly heavy but may still require some effort to move.

The Concept2 RowErg Model D comes with a limited 2-year warranty, adding to its value proposition. This rowing machine is an excellent option for those seeking an effective, durable, and feature-rich workout solution at an affordable price point.