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A rowing machine is a powerful upgrade for any home gym, especially if upping your fitness is high on your list of goals for 2026. With a single piece of equipment, you can work nearly every major muscle group while also enhancing your endurance and cardiovascular health. Rowing machines come in many shapes and styles, each designed to support different training needs and space constraints. As Peloton instructor Katie Wang notes, rowing is uniquely versatile, making it effective for recovery workouts, steady-state cardio and high-intensity interval sessions alike.
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- As a Fitness Expert, These Are the Best Rowing Machines I’ve Tested
- Factors to consider
- Recent updates
- Which is the best rowing machine?
- Best rowing machine of 2026
- <p>As with so many other products at CNET, we test rowing machines as thoroughly as possible, through rigorous examination and comparison. Each rowing machine in our list has been through at least 10 hours of workouts, using as many of the built-in features as possible.</p>
- Hydrow Origin Rower
- Echelon Row-S
- LIT Strength Machine
- EnergyFit Ski-Row Air + Pwr
- Hydrow Wave
- Best rowing machines of 2026 compared
- How we tested the best rowing machines
- Factors to consider when choosing a rowing machine
- Best rowing machine practices
- How to use a rowing machine
- Best buying advice for rowing machines
- Rowing machine FAQ
- What are the different types of rowing machines?
- How much do rowing machines cost?
- Is rowing a good workout?
- Is 20 minutes a day on a rowing machine enough?
- What are the disadvantages of a rowing machine?
- Is rowing good for losing belly fat?
- Can you get into shape just by rowing?
We put a wide range of woring machines through hands-on testing to find the standouts that deliver on comfort, durability and overall performance. From space-saving models built for quick workouts to premium machines designed for serious training, our top picks cover a variety of fitness levels and home setups.
Recent updates
June 2025: We reviewed this list to make sure all the products are available and up to date. We removed the Aviron Impact Series rowing machine because it is sold out, and we plan on retesting for this page next year.
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Which is the best rowing machine?
I tested several rowing machines to build this list, and while they all had unique features, I was most impressed by the Peloton Row. However, since testing, the Peloton Row is no longer being manufactured and has since been replaced by the Peloton Cross-Training Row Plus. We are currently testing the newer version and will update the list accordingly. There are plenty of other rowers on this list if you're open to other styles.
Best rowing machine of 2026
Pros
- High-end rower with a smooth ride
- Easy to assemble-about 30 minutes with additional help
- Well built
Cons
- Expensive
- Bigger than standard rowing machine at 86"L x 25"W x 47"H, so won't fit all spaces
- You have to pay extra for the anchor that stores it upright
Why we like it: While testing rowing machines, I got input from the CNET Wellness team and we collectively agreed that the Hydrow Origin Rower was a smooth and high-quality offering. Not only does the Hydrow Origin Rower look sleek and futuristic, but the stride also feels smoother and natural. I liked that the Hydrow Origin Rower looked more futuristic than other rowing machines I've seen. It uses electromagnetic drag technology to mimic the outdoor rowing experience. The rower consists of a 22-inch touchscreen that gives you access to more than 5,000 workouts, whether you're using the machine or the Hydrow app. To view the Hydrow classes, you'll need an all-access membership, which is an additional $44 per month but gives you unlimited profiles for your family.
Who it’s best for: The Hydrow is up there in price at $2,195 (currently discounted), hence the luxury label. So if it’s in your budget and you want to splurge, this rower is a solid pick. You’ll be able to have thousands of classes at your fingertips.
Who should avoid it: If a rowing machine that’s more than $2,000 isn’t in your budget, then pass on the Hydrow Origin Rower. You also have to purchase the anchor separately to store it upright; it retails for $80 and is essentially a strap screwed to the wall. I found this pricey, especially because the unit itself is expensive. Without the ability to store the machine upright, it made me question whether people with smaller spaces should buy it.
It also needs to be close to your Wi-Fi at home because that’s the best way to guarantee a good connection. I didn’t love the nylon foot straps this machine had, because you have to fiddle with the strap to tighten or loosen it. I find this style restrictive, and it can make it hard to get out of the machine if you're doing a HIIT circuit, for example.
Pros
- Light and easy to use if you've never rowed before
- Can hold up to 350 pounds so versatile for people of various weights and heights
- Easy to store upright
Cons
- Plastic design looks like it may not be the most durable
- Function is limited if you don't sign up for Echelon class membership
- Warranty only lasts for a year
What we like about it: I found the Echelon Row-S less intimidating than the other smart rowers and appreciated parts of its design, like the handle's protective covering to prevent blisters. It didn’t take long to assemble out of the box (maybe 30 minutes at most), which is a plus. I also liked the footplate design the most of all the rowing machines, because it felt intuitive to use the fastener straps. Additionally, the lever underneath the machine that lets you store the rower upright was easy to find and lift. The machine is on the lighter side, which makes it easy to move around. Despite being light, the machine can hold up to 350 pounds (158.7 kg) comfortably; therefore, it's versatile for people of all sizes and weights.
Who it’s best for: This rowing machine is best for beginners or those with limited space in their home. It was designed to be easily stored upright and is simple in terms of design. Regardless, it is a sturdy rowing machine that rows smoothly and gets the job done. It also has a 22-inch HD touchscreen, which is a nice option if you want to take classes through the Echelon Live and On-Demand class membership. There are three levels of membership to fit your budget: a year membership ($33.33 a month), a $40 month-to-month option or a lower-level membership for $12 per month. You’ll have access to thousands of classes besides rowing, including yoga, cycling, HIIT or strength training.
Who shouldn’t buy it: If space and money are not a factor and you want a more high-tech and luxurious rowing machine, this rower isn’t the best option. I would recommend the Hydrow Origin Rower instead.
Pros
- Versatile 3-in-1 machine
- Comfortable, well-cushioned seat
- Can be stored after use
- Wide footplate to accommodate tall rowers
- Affordable membership at $25 a month
- Doesn't need to be plugged in to use
Cons
- Doesn't have a touchscreen; you have to use your smartphone or tablet
- Costs extra to buy accessories
What we like about it: The LIT Strength machine is an all-in-one rower, Pilates reformer and strength trainer. Unlike other machines on the list, the LIT is a water rower, with resistance ranging from 10 to 40 pounds (4.5 to 18.1 kg) of water in a dual-tank drum. The good thing is you won't ever have to change the water because the machine comes with a lifetime supply of chlorine tablets.
I tested this machine at a showroom, so I did not experience what delivery and setup look like. The machine also has resistance bands (up to 100 pounds or 45.3 kilograms of resistance) looped around both sides of the rower handle, ready for strength training or Pilates exercises. I liked that this machine (similar to the Aviron) had a wider footplate, so if you're tall or have wider feet, it offers plenty of room. I also learned that it was designed to let you use your hamstrings more during the workout. The rowing handle is also properly coated with a protective rubber layer to minimize the chance of blisters.
Who it’s best for: This rowing machine is best for someone who wants a water rower with extra features. If you’re short on time or like to have multiple pieces of workout equipment at your disposal, then this rower may be a good choice. This is also a good choice if multiple people of different heights are going to use it in your household. LIT's membership costs $25 per month or $199 annually and comes with a three-month complimentary trial upon receiving your rower.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you’re on a tight budget or don’t care for a rowing machine to have the extras, the LIT Strength Machine is not the best choice for you. Some people don’t like water rowers because they fear they might leak. So if that’s one of your concerns, it’s best to steer clear of this rower and choose a different one instead. Additionally, one of the things I thought it was lacking was a screen, because you can only access the membership through your smartphone or tablet. For a machine that has extras and costs more than $1,000, at the very least, a screen could’ve been added somewhere on the rower.
Pros
- Unique design makes it two machines in one
- Ideal if you're limited in space and want two machines
- Sturdy enough to withstand rowing and indoor skiing
Cons
- Heavy machine that requires at least two people to assemble
- Monitor is dated and doesn't have a touchscreen
- Certain pieces don't look as durable as they should be
What we like about it: I liked that the Ski-Row Air + Pwr is a 2-in-1 machine, which combines skiing and rowing. I was surprised by how sturdy and well-made it was to withstand two types of fitness activity. Assembly took over 30 minutes and requires two people because the machine is big.
I’d used a Ski-Erg previously, which functions the same way as the skiing aspect on the Ski-Row, so I had something to compare it to. When the machine was adjusted to the skiing position, I thought the ski handles looked and felt legit, and it was the right height (for grabbing the handles), even for shorter individuals. The machine uses air and magnetic resistance as you're rowing or skiing. It also lets you connect via Bluetooth to an ANT Plus Heart Rate monitor.
Who it’s best for: I think the Ski-Row is a great piece of equipment to have at home (or at the gym) if you're looking for a two-in-one machine that won't take up extra room. The monitor is standard, like on most rowing machines, and reads time, distance, stroke rate, pace, resistance level and calories burned. The only app compatible with this rower is the GymTrakr app, but the Bluetooth and ANT Plus Heart Rate monitor let you connect with other wearables. If you choose this machine, just make sure your ceiling can clear the rower when it’s stored upright, because it stands at 7 feet tall.
Who shouldn’t buy it: If you don’t care for a 2-in-1 machine and want a simple rower, then the Ski-Row is not the best pick for you. If you’re looking for a more high-tech rowing machine, then you’re better off with one of the more luxurious options on this list. For a 2-in-1 machine, this one lacks a touchscreen, so it leaves much to be desired if you like the smart aspect that some fitness equipment consists of nowadays.
Pros
- Small enough to fit in an apartment
- Same great features as the original rower
- $600 cheaper than the Hydrow
Cons
- No new upgrades, except for size
- Vertical storage kit still not included
What we like about it: One of my original issues with the Hydrow Origin Rower was the size of the machine. The company rectified the issue by shrinking the original model by a few inches. I had this one delivered to my home and was impressed by its size. It easily fit in the space I had in mind for my apartment. When it was delivered, the Hydrow team assembled it incredibly fast and ensured I could access my account before they left.
You'll need to set up this machine in a space with a power outlet and a good Wi-Fi connection. The Hydrow Wave design looks more like that of a standard Flywheel rowing machine and uses a smaller footprint than its predecessor at 80"L x 19"W x 43"H. It still has the same high-tech qualities, like the electromagnetic drag technology, a touchscreen and access to Hydrow's workout programs. It's also $500 cheaper, making it a more affordable option. You'll still need to pay for the all-access membership ($33.33 a month) for classes. Because it’s a smaller footprint than the bigger Hydrow, you don’t have to worry about it taking up as much space, so you don’t necessarily need to buy the anchor.
The rowing experience, on the other hand, was similar to the original, and I'm glad that aspect remained the same. It wasn't too loud, and everything was smooth and comfortable, from the seat to the pulling motion.
Who it’s best for: If you're looking for a high-tech smart rower that doesn’t take up much space, the Hydrow Wave is the best choice. You’ll be able to enjoy all the smart features the Hydrow Origin Rower has to offer, but at a more compact size.
Who should avoid it: If you prefer a rowing machine that’s simpler, you might not want the Hydro Wave. Instead, you may like a simpler rower like the Concept-2, which is the classic rowing machine you see in gyms, but we didn’t get to test this time around.
Best rowing machines of 2026 compared
| 86"L x 25"W x 47"H | Magnetic | 1 year | 375 lbs | $1,695 |
| 80"L x 19"W x 43"H | Magnetic | 1 year | 375 lbs | $1,895 |
| 84" x 21" x 45" | Magnetic | 1 year | 300 lbs | $1,300 |
| 7ft x 1.75ft x 1.6 ft | Water | Lifetime | 400 lbs | $1,611 |
Rowing machines don't take up as much room as other pieces of fitness equipment, but because we test multiples of them at a time, we aim to test at the Louisville, Kentucky-based CNET warehouse. In some instances we may test at home or at a showroom if there is one available. We give ourselves a bandwidth of a few months to research, acquire and test equipment. Sometimes we may not be able to get all of the machines we would like to test on time, but we revisit them when we retest new styles.
We've established a methodology that helps us rate each piece of fitness equipment -- this includes rowing machines. We then use that data to break down the best choices for our lists and take into consideration the following:
Features: We look at the features offered by the rowing machine and how sophisticated or simple these features are, whether the machine can connect to built-in or third-party apps, smartwatches and other wearables. A machine with good features should ideally connect easily to Wi-Fi and compatible apps. No matter how sophisticated it is, it should be intuitive to use.
Software: Many of these machines have built-in programs, so we look to see how easy it is to use and any issues we experience when accessing them.
Functionality: When testing, we determine if the machine works as promised or is faulty. Additionally, we observe how intuitive it is to use. This applies whether it has all the most modern technology or is minimalistic. We know some machines will be straightforward without any advanced technology, but it should still function well. If the machine is modernized, it should still be easy to use by anyone.
Assembly: We know assembling fitness equipment takes time and sometimes help from a second person. We take into account assembling time and difficulty, and if there is a white glove delivery option. Sometimes it's worth it even for a fee.
Warranty: The warranty information for your equipment is important to know in case parts need to be replaced. Fitness equipment is an investment, so you should be getting your money's worth.
Read more on how we test fitness equipment
There's no such thing as one rowing machine for every user or every living situation, but there are a few things you can ask yourself to narrow it down. With that in mind, we tested all rowing machines under the same basic criteria.
Price
With a lot of smart rowing machines, you're rarely paying for just the hardware. Be sure to check the subscription price and whether that subscription is required to use the rower. Separately, many manufacturers offer payment plans for rowing machines to help make the initial cost a little less impactful.
Physical space
By design, rowing machines are physically long, and you need to be able to move across the length of the rail while working out. Be sure to measure your space and include a little room on either side so you'll be able to get on and off the rower. It's also important to be aware of the size of the machine when it's stowed away or folded up, to ensure it isn't always taking up a lot of space.
Max rower weight
You may be surprised to learn that the total weight a rowing machine can support varies significantly from model to model, especially if that model folds up instead of standing up. You can run into long-term wear issues if you're close to the maximum weight a machine can handle.
Workout quality
If you're going to be paying for a monthly subscription, the stuff you get access to needs to be good. Some rowers come with great class-style programming, while others use recordings of the real world or even games to help keep you focused on the physical activity at hand. It's important to know what kind of programming motivates you the most and choose a platform to best suit your needs.
When using a rowing machine, it's key to practice good form if you want to get the most out of the workout. It's helpful to have a rowing instructor or trainer familiar with the machine to teach you the correct way to row.
Catch, Drive, Recovery: It's important to learn the four key steps to rowing. These are the catch, drive, finish and recovery. Peloton rowing instructor Alex Karwoski says your starting position should look like this: "Starting from the fully compressed position -- your arms should be outstretched, body pivoted forward at a slight angle, and knees close to your chest." From here you want to push with the legs to drive the seat and handle away from the screen. Karwoski explains, "for the first third to half of the drive, our legs are doing the majority of the work while our arms and body are braced and holding the pressure." Then, as the shins come to about 45 degrees to the floor, the body swing starts. He says the key to the body swing is to think about "adding momentum" to the handle. The legs started moving the internal flywheel, and this is where the legs and body can work in conjunction to further accelerate the flywheel. "Finally, our arms get involved right at the end of the stroke and we pull the handle all the way into the chest," he says. Once all of that is completed, you start the recovery phase of the stroke, which is just the opposite and the arms move away from the body first, followed by the body pivoting forward, and the legs compress to return to the catch.
Don't misuse the drag factor: The drag factor is usually featured as a dampener handle on a traditional rower. On more modern rowers, such as some of the ones mentioned on this list, it's included within the software. "Most people assume that moving this from, for example, the three to the 10 makes the machine harder, but what is really does is simply increase the rate at which the flywheel slows down and thereby causes the stroke to feel heavier because now it is as if you are rowing through molasses rather than water," Karwoski said. In other words, avoid mistaking the "drag factor" for "speed level" or "intensity."
Know what the main measurement is: The main unit being measured when you row is output. Karwoski explains that when you row, each stroke takes a certain amount of time so the work being measured is the force applied to move the flywheel. He says, "from the output, we can derive the split, which is given in terms of time it would take to row 500 meters at your given output and distance." Another metric to look at is the stroke rate, which is the number of strokes you will take, if you hold your current rhythm, in a minute. "I encourage people to focus on output because that is the big number usually right in the middle of the screen," Karwoski said. Keep in mind that different rowing machines have different metrics that are highlighted, but ultimately it's about how much force you can apply through the drive to move the flywheel.
Rowing precautions: As with any form of exercise, it's important to get clearance from your doctor if you have health concerns or are pregnant. "If you are returning from an injury -- and that injury doesn't prohibit you from sitting on a rowing machine -- the rowing motion can be a gentler way to restart your cardiovascular fitness," said Peloton rowing instructor Katie Wang. This is a good way to get the benefits of a cardio workout while caring for your joints and knees.
There are different types of workouts you can practice with a rowing machine, depending on your goals. The key is to have fun with them because the machine is that versatile.
Just a few times a week of rowing is all you need: The good thing about rowing is that a short session provides you with a lot of benefits. "Adding in rowing once or twice a week is great cross training," says Wang, adding, "for people just starting their fitness journey, the American Heart Association recommends between 75 and 150 minutes of exercise per week depending on if that is vigorous or moderate intensity." Rowing easily lets you get a full-body workout because it uses your legs and arms at the same time.
Combine with strength training: Rowing is an effective exercise because it engages multiple muscle groups at once and can be used for cardio and strength. For example, Wang says the rowing stroke consists of mainly push movements (with the majority of the power coming from the lower body). This can benefit you if your strength focus is a push day. "Try adding a LISS [low intensity steady state] row at the beginning of the workout to warm up or a short HIIT [high intensity interval training] row at the end for that extra burnout," Wang advises. On the other hand, if you have a pull day, you can use a longer rowing workout to help balance out the workout without adding additional fatigue to your primary muscle focus.
Workout for time, strokes per minute or 500-meter split pace: Depending on your preference, you can aim to challenge yourself by seeing how many strokes per minute you can achieve throughout a timed workout. You can do a timed workout without any other metrics to look out for. Or you can throw in a twist by seeing how long it takes you to achieve 500 meters.
EMOM: You can also row for"every minute on the minute." This involves choosing a metric to achieve within that minute and resting for whatever is left of that minute before repeating the action. If you decide you want to achieve 15 calories on the rowing console during that minute, for example: First row until you achieve it. Then if there's remaining time in that minute, you rest. When the second minute begins, you repeat the same method.
Intervals: You can play around with intervals for time and exercises that include the rowing machine. For example, you can set a clock for 15 minutes and aim to achieve a certain number of sets as you alternate between rowing a certain number of meters paired with burpees or squats.
Full body workout with a rowing machine in a gym.
UnsplashWhen picking out a new rowing machine, you'll want to focus on machines with smooth resistance, solid build quality and an easy to read display because these are the features you actually rely on for an effective workout. Watch out for bundles that include floor mats or heart rate straps for extra value.
What are the different types of rowing machines?
There are four types of rowing machines: hydraulic, flywheel, water and magnetic.
Hydraulic machines tend to be the most affordable and the resistance is created by the amount of air or fluid that's constricted with a hydraulic cylinder.
Flywheels work with fan blades to create resistance using air. This is the traditional rower you might've seen at your local gym.
Water and magnetic rowers are newer machines that are quieter and intended to best mimic outdoor rowing. The difference is that magnetic rowers use magnets, while water rowers use water in a tank to generate resistance.
How much do rowing machines cost?
Depending on the type of rowing machine, some cheaper machines can cost about $500, while more expensive ones can cost $1,000 to $2,000-plus.
Is rowing a good workout?
Yes, rowing is a full-body workout and targets 85% of your body. It targets your arms, back, core, legs and chest and can help build up your endurance and strength.
Is 20 minutes a day on a rowing machine enough?
Rowing is so efficient that you can get a good workout in as little as 20 minutes. Most of the classes offered through memberships on this list have classes lasting 20 to 45 minutes.
What are the disadvantages of a rowing machine?
Rowing machines are great -- but they have their setbacks. Apart from being bulky, expensive and noisy in most cases, the workouts you get out of them don't offer the same strength benefits as resistance training. Plus getting a proper rowing form can be a steep learning curve for some.
Is rowing good for losing belly fat?
Can you get into shape just by rowing?
Rowing is a great way to get in shape, but any exercise will help you reach your fitness goal as long as you watch your caloric intake. There is no such thing as one exercise being better than another. Just choose one that you like and stick to it.
