Full Buying Guide on How to Choose Best Rowing Machine for the Money

Pros:

• They are quiet.
• They are smooth to use.
• Maintenance is minimal.
• It’s as close to real rowing as you can get.

Cons:

• They are more expensive than other models.
• They take up a large amount of room.

Although suitable for both at the home and gym, they are generally more commonly found at training facilities for rowers and in gyms. General home users of fitness equipment don’t often require exact water simulation that athletes and professional rowers do.

Water rowers generally just need a quick wipe down, the guide rail cleaned of dust, and the water changes from time to time.

Storage of a water rowing machine is generally a little more tricky than that of other models. Therefore, it’s best to put them in a suitable place for use that won’t be in the way. This way you won’t need to remove it for storage.

For a largely professional machine, a lot of the monitor systems on water rowers are disappointing. Many lack vital features such as heart rate but overall, most of them have monitors for distance, time, strokes and calories burnt.

Pros:

• Resistance is all determined by the user – depending on how fast you are ‘rowing’.
• It’s a smooth, realistic action.
• The machine is hardy and gets very little wear and tear.
• They are easy to fold and store.

Cons:

• It’s quite noisy for indoor use so it’s generally suitable for in a gym or garage environment.
• There are cheaper options on the market.

The air resistance rowing machine is suitable for both gym and home use. It’s small enough to fit in the home or garage, whilst it’s also effective enough to be considered a professional product at a gym. Because many athletes prefer it, it’s certainly a favorite in a gym environment.

Air resistance rowing machines generally require very little maintenance. From time to time you will need to tighten any bolts, ensure all wires are fastened and out of the way, and clear any dust and dirt from nooks and crannies. It also pays to lubricate the chain and clean the flywheel after every 50-70 hours of use.

Air resistance rowing machines easily fold in half. They are still quite large though and will need a large space to be stored. They are best suited for in a second living room, home gym, standard gym or your home garage.

Monitors vary from model to model, but many include a range of features so you can accurately keep track of your progress. This can include:

• Pre-set programs to motivate you.
• Distance.
• Time.
• Pulse rate – many require you to buy a chest strap for this to work with your machine.

Pros:

• They are quiet.
• They are good for casual users.
• They are well priced on the market.

Cons:

• You have to adjust the resistance yourself.
• They don’t simulate water so are purely beneficial for getting fit and losing weight.

Magnetic resistance rowing machines are much better for people looking to get in shape. Because they don’t simulate water, athletes prefer other models which do. Therefore you generally find these in garages and homes rather than in gyms and fitness clubs.

​Maintenance is very basic on this machine. You should wipe off your sweat after each use as this can corrode the machine. You should also oil the chain (if it has one) at least every 50-70 hours. It’s also important you clean the guard rail to remove built up grease, grime, dust and dirt.

These particular models simply fold up and can be stored in a corner. They still do take up quite a large amount of room, so once they are folded it’s best to store it somewhere out of sight such as in a garage or an office.

The more expensive the machine is, the more advanced the monitor is. Aside from heart rate, time and distance, more and more of these machines are enabling you to undertake a ‘race’ against other ‘boats’ with a set stroke, time and distance. Some also come with chest straps to enable you to monitor your heart rate. Some also offer PC compatibility which means you can send any data to your computer to analyze and improve on.

Pros:

• It’s the cheapest option on the market.
• It’s suitable for people looking to get fit.
• It’s smaller than other machines which makes it better for storing.

Cons:

• It’s not suitable for athletes or professionals looking to improve rowing techniques.
• It has limited adjustable parts.
• They require more maintenance than other rowing machines due to the hydraulic cylinders.

Piston resistance rowing machines are more suitable for home use as they don’t take up much room. They are also not suitable for professionals, therefore they don’t have a place in a professional gym or fitness club.

Piston resistance rowing machines in general require a lot more maintenance than some other models. This is because the piston, which uses a mixture of oil and air, becomes heated with use and its viscosity changes. Users then have to alter the resistance level to counteract the heat. You also have to try and work with the lag in the resistance, as well as maintain and repair any leaks in the pistons. These machines, with heavy use, also break down to the point of not being cost effective to repair. This will mean maintenance, after a while, will end up turning into a full replacement.

Piston resistance rowing machines are the easiest of all rowing machines to store. This is due to them being smaller than the majority of other makes and models on the market. Before you purchase one, it pays to do your research and watch videos on how it folds up for storage.

Because piston resistance rowing machines are generally targeted towards general people looking to get fit, manufacturers tend to not go ‘all out’ with the design and functionality of the monitor systems. The majority of these will give you basic, but potentially inaccurate, data such as calories, time and strokes.

Pros:

• The flywheel makes it quiet in comparison to other models of rowing machine.
• It’s more cost effective than some other brands.
• It has a 500 pound capacity – more so than many other brands of rower.
• It has adjustable footrests.
• It has caster wheels for easier moving into storage.

Cons:

• Some users note the monitor failures long before its time.
• It can be difficult to put together.
• It’s not as affordable as other brands and models on the market.

• Concept 2 rowing machine.
• 5 year frame warranty.
• 2 year parts warranty.

QWhat is its weight limit?

A500 pounds.​

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QHow much room does it take up for storage?

AApproximately 2 feet x 3 feet.

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QWhat maintenance is required?

AOiling the chain after approximately 50 hours of use.

This folding rowing machine has impressed both gym-goers and home users by its quality design and smooth rowing features. It’s portable, compact, is affordable on the market and is top rated by many users. In comparison to other brands, it offers good levels of resistance, a smooth guide rail, and plenty of good features on the monitor. Overall, it’s one of the best rowing machines for the money.

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Concept 2 Model D rowing machine reviews.

Pros:

• It simulates real water rowing.
• The monitor tracks much of your progress and performance.
• It’s quiet to operate.
• The water level sets the resistance – just like in the water.
• It’s very well built with no parts that appear weak or ill-constructed.

Cons:

• It’s quite expensive.
• It can be difficult to assemble.
• Some parts don’t line up how they should.

• WaterRower rowing machine.
• One year warranty (or five years by registering the product).

QWhat are its dimensions?

A84 x 21 x 22 inches.

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QWhat kind of wood is it?

AAsh.

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QWhere is this best used?

AHomes, commercial gyms, studios, and rehabilitation clinics.

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QWhat is the weight capacity?

A700 pounds.

For the professional, athlete, or home owner looking for a good representation of actual rowing, this rower is the answer. Although it’s for sale at a higher cost in comparison to some other manufacturers, makes and models, it represents good value in every aspect. It offers a top quality monitor system, it accurately tracks your performance, and it’s easy to store. It’s also very comfortable to use, provides a fulfilling exercise routine and will see your fitness levels rise in no time. If you’re looking for the best deal in terms of quality vs. price, this would be top rated on the market.

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read WaterRower Club rowing machine reviews.

Pros:

• It offers 12 workout programs.
• The monitor has extensive tracking options.
• The seat and pedals are comfortable.
• It’s well built.

Cons:

• It’s heavy.
• It’s hard to store.
• The monitor operates on power, not battery.

• Stamina Avari rowing machine.
• 3 year frame warranty.
• 90 day parts warranty.

QWhat is its weight limit?

A275 pounds.​

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QWhat are its dimensions?

A44 x 30 x 11 inches.

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QIs it easy to store?

ANo. It’s best kept in a place for use that’s out of the way.

For the home user with a large amount of space for fitness gear, this rower is a perfect match. It offers several workout programs to keep your fitness routine varied, as well as being quiet to use and comfortable to operate. It’s well built and is for sale at a very competitive price. Its only true downfall is not being able to be stored out of the way conveniently. Overall, it’s easily one of the best rowing machines for the money due to its quality build and ease of use.

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Stamina Avari rowing machine reviews.

Pros:

• It has 8 levels of adjustment.
• It has a comfortable seat, handles and pedals.
• Your progress is trackable.
• It’s relatively easy to store at home.

Cons:

• Some of the parts feel cheap and weak.
• Users note the cord and handle isn’t very strong and can break easily.
• Some users note faulty wiring in the display unit.

• Sunny Health & Fitness rowing machine.
• 3 year frame warranty.
• 90 days parts warranty.

QWhat is its max weight?

A250 pounds.​

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QWhat are its dimensions?

A82 x 19 x 23 inches.

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QHow loud is it?

AIn comparison to some other models, it’s rather quiet.

For a lightweight, portage rowing machine which is good for folding and storing within your home, this is the rower for you. It’s not suitable for gym use, nor is it targeted towards professionals, but for home users it’s a good option. It’s not the best deal on the market however, as for its price in comparison to others, it doesn’t appear to offer the best features. It is also a little flimsy on construction in some parts and this has caused it to not be one of the best rowing machines for the money.

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 rowing machine reviews.

Pros:

• It has a multi-function performance monitor.
• The seat is comfortable for extended use.
• It has wheels to make it portable.
• It’s compact for home storage.

Cons:

• It doesn’t feel balanced or sturdy.
• It doesn’t have adjustable tension.
• The monitor is basic.
• It’s only suitable for home users, not for gyms.

• Stamina 1399 ATS rowing machine.
• 3 year frame warranty.
• 90 day parts warranty.

QWhat are its dimensions?

A77 x 18 x 22 inches ready for use.

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QDoes it come assembled?

ANo.

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QWhat is the weight limit?

A250 pounds.

If you’re just starting out getting your fitness in check, or you’re after a basic model to fit well into your home, this Stamina rower is the answer. It doesn’t claim to be professional, but it does offer all the basics one needs to get fit. It can be quite noisy and it doesn’t feel overly sturdy, but it’s perfect for people under 250 pounds. It’s a cost-effective option, is affordable, and is easily one of the top rated lower end models on the market.

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Stamina 1399 ATS rowing machine reviews.

Pros:

• It has 8 levels of adjustment.
• The footplates enable users to complete dual workouts.
• It’s suitable for both home and gym.
• It has wheels for easier storage.

Cons:

• It doesn’t calculate the stroke and distance.
• There is lag with the handle returning.
• The seat runs too close to the monitor wire which may end up damaging it.

• Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5612 rowing machine.
• 3 year frame warranty.
• 90 day parts warranty.

QWhat is its weight limit?

A300 pounds.​

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QWhat are its dimensions?

A86 x 28 x 19 inches.

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QDoes the monitor give you stroke and distance?

ANo.

It’s not a high end rowing machine but it’s effective mainly for home users. In comparison to other manufacturers, models and brands, it’s not the easiest rower to store and would need to be situated somewhere out of the way for use. It also has lag in return of the handle which largely makes it unsuitable for athletes and professionals. Overall though, it’s made of quality parts, can handle a bit of pain, and is well priced on the market for those looking for an alternative to the gym.

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5612 rowing machine reviews.

Pros:

• The water flywheel simulates actual rowing.
• It’s well built – handcrafted.
• It’s very quiet to operate.
• The oak construction absorbs the sounds and vibrations.
• It has a professional monitor to track and monitor performance.
• It’s easy to store upright.

Cons:

• It’s quite expensive in comparison to other manufacturers, brands and models.
• Wood expands and retracts so you have to keep on top of tightening of bolts and minor realigning.
• The footboard can be hard to adjust and is uncomfortable.

• WaterRower (white wood) rowing machine.
• 1 year frame warranty (or five years by registering the product).

QWhat are its dimensions?

A84 x 21 x 22 inches.

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QWhere is it made?

AWarren, Rhode Island.

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QWhat kind of wood can it be made out of?

AAsh, Cherry or Walnut.

For the professional athlete looking to simulate actual rowing in water, this is the perfect rower for the job. It’s relatively lightweight, stores easily and provides an excellent workout both at home and at the gym. There are also several performance tracking options available on the monitor to show progress on your fitness. It’s also a very attractive rower which can fit into any home environment with ease. Although it costs a little more than others, it’s certainly worth it with the quality of design and build. Overall, it’s easily one of the best rowing machines for the money.

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read WaterRower (white wood) rowing machine reviews.

Pros:

• It offers 16 levels of tensions resistance.
• It’s height adjustable.
• It has an in depth monitor system.
• It folds up easy for storage.

Cons:

• It doesn’t come with a lot of instructions for the use of the monitor or heart rate.
• Assembly is difficult.
• The manual is difficult to find online.

• Velocity Exercise magnetic rowing machine.
• 5 year frame warranty.
• 1 year monitor and pedals warranty.
• 90 days parts warranty.

QWhat is its weight limit?

A275 pounds.​

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QWhat are its dimensions?

A97 x 18 x 43 inches.

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QDoes it fold for storage?

AYes.

This machine makes you work hard for a good workout, and that’s what users love about it. Perfect for the home or gym, it’s portable, relatively easily to store and provides a good level of exercise. It also has a very functional and detailed monitor for the home user or athlete. This indoor rower easily rated as one of the best rowing machines for the money.

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Velocity Exercise rowing machine reviews.

Pros:

• It has adjustable tension controls.
• It mimics being on the water.
• The seat is thick, plush and comfortable.
• The monitor shows speed, time, calories, miles, and distance.

Cons:

• The components feel and look cheap.
• The legs provide not a lot of exertion, yet the arms provide too much.
• The shock resistant seals are known to rupture often.

• Stamina 1215 piston resistance rowing machine.
• 5 year frame warranty.
• 90 day parts warranty.

QWhat is its weight limit?

A250 pounds.​

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QWhat are its dimensions?

A48 x 32.5 x 27.75 inches.

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QDoes it come assembled?

ANo. But you can opt for it to be assembled for you, at an additional cost.

For home use, this rowing machine fits the bill as one that’s reliable and easy to assemble. However, when it comes to being top rated or providing a valuable workout experience, it misses the mark. Some of the parts appear to be poorly manufactured, and users experience shock resistant seals failing with minimal use. It’s also not the best deal available on the market. For the money, there are better rowing machines for sale.

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Stamina 1215 rowing machine reviews.

Pros:

• It has a good training program with time, strokes, speed and distance.
• It’s a good option for home exercise.
• It has a thick padded seat.
• It has ball bearings which made gliding over the rail easy.

Cons:

• The tension adjustment brackets will not consistently hold the tension in place.
• Some parts are low quality.
• The heartbeat clip is too short so it pulls out when you row backwards.

• Kettler home rowing machine.
• 2 year warranty.
• Pulse reader.

QWhat are its dimensions?

A49 x 31 x 10 inches.

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QIs it pre-assembled?

ANo, assembly is required.

This Kettler rowing machine is a great option for home users of gym equipment who don’t have a lot of space. It gives a good workout, has a good monitor system, and assembly is reasonably straightforward. However, some users note the parts are not well manufactured. This causes them to break easy. It’s also been noted that the tension adjustment brackets do not hold the tension in place. This is a common problem and one that has caused many users to opt for other brands.

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Kettler rowing machine reviews.