Best Rowing Machines on Amazon for Home Workouts and Fitness

Durability and build quality: Heavy-duty construction stands up to frequent, intense use and supports users up to ~500 lb; known to last many years with minimal maintenance.

Performance tracking: The PM5 monitor provides detailed and reliable metrics and can pair with Bluetooth or ANT+ devices.

Adaptable resistance: Air resistance seamlessly scales with effort, offering a realistic rowing feel that suits beginners through elite athletes.

Price: Significantly more expensive than typical home models.

Noise: Air resistance mechanisms are louder than magnetic or water models.

Basic display: The monitor is functional but lacks built-in streamed workouts or large touchscreen features.

Quiet, smooth resistance: Magnetic system operates with minimal noise while still providing a challenging workout.

Foldable design: Can be stored upright to save space when not in use.

Comprehensive tracking: LCD monitor tracks key workout metrics like time, distance, strokes, and calories.

Assembly and size: Heavier unit may be more challenging to assemble and move.

Quality variance: Some reviewers note occasional quality control inconsistencies across units.

Price vs basic models: Slightly higher cost than entry-level magnetic rowers.

Smooth magnetic resistance: Adjustable levels allow customized workout intensity.

Stability and comfort: Dual slide rails and ergonomic seats improve overall rowing experience.

App features: Bluetooth support with app integration for tracking and guided workouts (varies by model).

Seat padding: Some users find the seat less comfortable on extended sessions.

Foot strap adjustments: Repeated tightening may be needed during vigorous rowing.

Monitor limitations: Basic display screens on some models may lack advanced metrics.

Quiet and smooth operation: The magnetic resistance system produces minimal noise, making it suitable for apartments or shared living spaces where loud equipment could be disruptive. Users consistently note that the rowing motion remains smooth even during longer sessions.

Extended slide rail for taller users: The longer rail length allows the machine to comfortably accommodate taller individuals, which is a common limitation in budget rowing machines. This improves range of motion and overall rowing form.

Space-saving foldable design: The rail folds upright when not in use, allowing the machine to be stored in closets or corners. This feature is frequently praised by users with limited workout space.

Accessible resistance adjustment: The multi-level magnetic resistance knob is easy to adjust, making the machine suitable for beginners while still offering enough challenge for light-to-moderate conditioning.

SunnyFit App integration: Free access to the SunnyFit App provides guided workouts and basic performance tracking, adding value without a subscription requirement.

Limited maximum resistance: While adequate for general fitness, the magnetic resistance may feel insufficient for advanced or highly trained users seeking intense rowing sessions.

Basic performance monitor: The onboard LCD display tracks essential metrics but lacks the depth, accuracy, and connectivity found in higher-end rowing machines.

Seat comfort for long sessions: Some users report that the seat cushioning can become uncomfortable during extended workouts, often requiring an additional seat pad.

Build materials feel entry-level: Although generally durable for the price, certain components feel lighter and less robust compared to premium or commercial-grade rowers.

Adjustable magnetic resistance (16 levels): The wide range of resistance levels lets users fine-tune workout intensity, accommodating both beginners and more experienced exercisers. This versatility makes it suitable for general cardiovascular fitness, weight loss, and muscle endurance.

Smooth and stable rowing motion: The dual slide rail construction — reinforced steel — boosts stability and reduces wobble during use, helping ensure a consistent pull and a more comfortable rowing experience even during vigorous workouts.

App connectivity and digital tracking: Bluetooth compatibility allows pairing with popular workout apps like Kinomap or other supported fitness platforms, enhancing workout engagement with guided routines and real-time performance feedback beyond the basic LCD readouts.

Compact and foldable for easy storage: Once you’re done exercising, the rowing machine can be stored upright to save space, and built-in transport wheels make relocation or storage simple — a bonus for those with limited home gym space.

User-friendly setup: Many users report quick assembly (often under 25 minutes) and straightforward instructions, helping reduce frustration at setup time.

Monitor limitations: The LCD display provides only basic metrics and lacks the advanced analytics or large interactive screens seen on premium rowing machines; for deeper tracking, users typically need the connected app.

Resistance range for advanced athletes: Although 16 levels offer good progression for most users, seriously trained athletes may find the maximum resistance less challenging than air or high-end magnetic trainers.

Assembly quality varies: Some owners note that assembly quality or alignment can vary slightly across units, occasionally requiring extra adjustments to ensure rail and monitor stability.

Weight capacity: The advertised maximum recommended user weight (~350 lb) is solid for many users, but lighter than some heavy-duty commercial models — which can support higher weight limits and may feel more robust under intense use.

App dependency for full features: While the rower works fine standalone, many customers consider the Bluetooth app connection essential to unlock guided workouts and richer workout data, making mobile device access a requirement for best experience.