Best rowing machines for 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
For most people, the smartest buy is the Concept2 RowErg, it’s the do-it-all default that rowers, gyms, and coaches have trusted for years.
The Hydrow Wave is for anyone who craves live and on-demand classes, the Ergatta is for gamers who prefer a game-based workout, and the Fitness Reality 1000 Plus is the best budget-friendly Bluetooth option.
Rowing machines deliver a rare combination of low-impact cardio and full-body strength, working your legs, core, arms, and back with every stroke. But the category has splintered into air, water, and magnetic resistance, each with a different feel and price point. If you’re shopping for 2026, the key choices revolve around how much connected features matter, how loud you can tolerate the machine, and whether you want a workout that feels like gliding on water or pulling against a digital load. To cut through the noise, I’ve looked at owner feedback, expert reviews, and long-term reliability reports for the five machines that consistently top best-of lists. The picks below range from the bulletproof Concept2 to budget-friendly magnetic options, so you can match the rower to your home gym setup, motivation style, and budget.
Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine
the do-it-all default
4.8out of 5The Concept2 RowErg is the most proven, best-supported rowing machine on the market. Its air resistance gives a progressive feel that matches your effort, and the lack of a monthly subscription is a relief. It’s not the quietest or the prettiest, but it’s the one you’ll still be rowing on in a decade.
Price range: $$$
Check price on Amazon →Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine
the best connected rower for classes
4.6out of 5The Hydrow Wave uses computer-controlled magnetic resistance to deliver smooth, quiet workouts that really mimic on-water feel. The live and library classes are genuinely engaging, though you’ll need to keep paying the subscription to unlock the machine’s full potential.
Price range: $$$
Check price on Amazon →Ergatta Connected Water Rowing Machine
the best water resistance for gamified workouts
4.5out of 5Ergatta’s water resistance rower is beautiful, quiet, and it turns rowing into a surprisingly addictive game-like experience. The wooden finish and self-contained tank are stunning, but the subscription is steep and the library of non-game workouts is thin.
Price range: $$$$
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine | 4.8 / 5 | $$$ | Rowers who want a reliable, data-rich machine with zero subscription pressure and the best | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine | 4.6 / 5 | $$$ | People who are motivated by live and on-demand classes and want a very quiet machine that | Check price → |
| Best value | Ergatta Connected Water Rowing Machine | 4.5 / 5 | $$$$ | Home exercisers who love competition, data-driven goals, and want a conversation-piece row | Check price → |
| Best iFIT integration | NordicTrack RW900 Smart Rowing Machine | 4.4 / 5 | $$$ | iFIT enthusiasts who want automatic resistance changes during scenic rows, and don’t mind | Check price → |
| Best budget Bluetooth | Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rowing Machine | 4.3 / 5 | $ | Budget-conscious home exercisers who want a quiet, connected magnetic rower and don’t need | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine: the do-it-all default
Best overallThe Concept2 RowErg is the most proven, best-supported rowing machine on the market. Its air resistance gives a progressive feel that matches your effort, and the lack of a monthly subscription is a relief. It’s not the quietest or the prettiest, but it’s the one you’ll still be rowing on in a decade.
Pros
- Rock-solid build and spartan parts availability for years
- Free and excellent workout data via the PM5 monitor
- Folds upright for compact storage, rolls easily
- Active community and resale value are unmatched
Cons
- Air resistance is loud enough to hear in the next room
- No built-in screen or app, bring your own tablet
- Seat can feel hard on long sessions without a pad
Who it’s for
Rowers who want a reliable, data-rich machine with zero subscription pressure and the best long-term value.Who should skip it
You need whisper-quiet operation for an apartment, or you prefer a workout that feels more like a smooth, silent glide.2. Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine: the best connected rower for classes
Runner-upThe Hydrow Wave uses computer-controlled magnetic resistance to deliver smooth, quiet workouts that really mimic on-water feel. The live and library classes are genuinely engaging, though you’ll need to keep paying the subscription to unlock the machine’s full potential.
Pros
- Very quiet, excellent for shared walls and early mornings
- Sleek, low-profile design that doesn’t scream ‘gym equipment’
- Excellent coaching and video production in the classes
- Magnetic resistance provides a smooth, consistent stroke
Cons
- Monthly membership is required for most of the connected features
- Max resistance may feel light for very strong rowers
- Non-folding design requires more dedicated floor space
Who it’s for
People who are motivated by live and on-demand classes and want a very quiet machine that blends into a living room.Who should skip it
You’re on a tight budget or absolutely refuse to pay a recurring subscription fee.3. Ergatta Connected Water Rowing Machine: the best water resistance for gamified workouts
Best valueErgatta’s water resistance rower is beautiful, quiet, and it turns rowing into a surprisingly addictive game-like experience. The wooden finish and self-contained tank are stunning, but the subscription is steep and the library of non-game workouts is thin.
Pros
- Water resistance feels wonderfully natural and is fairly quiet
- Gamified workout system keeps you chasing challenge targets
- Stunning design, looks like a piece of furniture
- Tank glug is satisfying and meditative, not annoying
Cons
- Price is high compared to similarly featured machines
- Subscription cost is significant and required for most features
- Fixed screen angle can be awkward for taller users
Who it’s for
Home exercisers who love competition, data-driven goals, and want a conversation-piece rower that works as furniture.Who should skip it
You prefer straightforward rowing without games, or you’re looking for a machine under a budget-friendly price point.4. NordicTrack RW900 Smart Rowing Machine: the best iFIT integration for auto-resistance
Best iFIT integrationThe NordicTrack RW900 makes iFIT’s auto-resistance feature the star: the machine automatically adjusts drag as the video instructor calls out pace changes. It’s a clever party trick, but the build quality and long-term reliability don’t quite match the price.
Pros
- Auto-resistance syncs seamlessly with iFIT scenic and trainer-led classes
- Large, tilting touchscreen is easy to see during workouts
- Magnetic resistance is near-silent and requires zero maintenance
- Generous trial subscription period included with purchase
Cons
- Reports of electronics and motor reliability issues after a year or two
- Monthly iFIT membership needed to unlock most value
- Fairly heavy and doesn’t fold, takes up a fixed footprint
Who it’s for
iFIT enthusiasts who want automatic resistance changes during scenic rows, and don’t mind a subscription.Who should skip it
You want a rower that will last a decade with minimal fuss, or you’re not planning to maintain an iFIT membership.5. Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Bluetooth Magnetic Rowing Machine: the best budget Bluetooth rower
Best budget BluetoothThe Fitness Reality 1000 Plus punches far above its price point. It offers a smooth magnetic feel, Bluetooth connectivity to popular apps, and a foldable frame. The trade-offs are a less refined build and a fixed resistance curve that can feel a bit artificial, but for the money it’s a fantastic entry point.
Pros
- Very affordable, costs a fraction of the premium models
- Bluetooth connects to apps like Kinomap, Zwift, and others
- Folds upright and has transport wheels for easy storage
- Quiet magnetic resistance that won’t disturb housemates
Cons
- Resistance curve feels less natural than air or water rowers
- Seat and handlebar comfort are adequate but not luxurious
- Pedal straps are basic and may need upgrading for serious use
Who it’s for
Budget-conscious home exercisers who want a quiet, connected magnetic rower and don’t need a top-of-the-line feel.Who should skip it
You’re an experienced rower looking for the most realistic stroke feel, or you want a machine with a long warranty and premium parts support.Best for specific needs
Best for long-term reliability and resale value
If you plan to keep your rower for a decade, want easy access to spare parts, and even hope to sell it later for a decent chunk back, the Concept2 RowErg is the only choice. It’s the Toyota Camry of rowing machines: boring to look at, bulletproof to own. No other rower holds its value as well. Our pick: Concept2 RowErg.
Best for small apartments and shared walls
When noise is your biggest concern, magnetic resistance is the way to go. The Hydrow Wave and Fitness Reality 1000 Plus are both near-silent, but the Wave offers a much more polished connected experience. If you can swing the budget, the Wave is the standalone quiet performer that won’t wake anyone up. Our pick: Hydrow Wave.
Best for keeping motivation high without thinking about it
Gamified workouts and auto-resistance take the mental load out of training. The Ergatta’s challenges and the NordicTrack RW900’s iFIT auto-adjust are both very effective at keeping you moving. If you have the budget and love data-driven play, Ergatta wins. If you prefer coached scenic rows, go NordicTrack. Our pick: Ergatta.
Our verdict
There’s no single perfect rowing machine, the best one depends on your space, your budget, and how you like to be motivated. If you want the most reliable, best-supported machine that will still be going strong when the next decade rolls around, the Concept2 RowErg is the honest answer. If you need quiet and connected features on a budget, go with the Fitness Reality 1000 Plus. For a premium, fully immersive experience, the Hydrow Wave and Ergatta each offer something special. Pick the one that fits your life, and you’ll be rowing strong for years.