The Concept2 RowErg Rower is one of the most popular rowers in the world and, in our opinion, one of the best rowing machines out there. It can be found in nearly every CrossFit gym in the country.

Pretty much anyone, from those who row for sport to those who simply want to improve their health, can jump on the RowErg (formerly called the Concept2 Model D) and get an outstanding workout. The machine requires few adjustments to begin use, and it’s not overly tech-y, so it’s a good option for beginners. Home gym equipment expert and certified personal trainer Lindsay Scheele explains just how versatile this machine is in her Concept2 RowErg video review:

We rate it highly for its performance monitor (PM5), which tracks every metric you’d ever want to know: elapsed time, strokes per minute, average pace, split meters, heart rate, and projected meters in 30 minutes. Very few other rowers hold a candle to Concept 2’s worldwide leaderboard, which allows you to see how you stack up to others across the world in various challenges.

When in use, this rower has an average footprint of 95 inches in length and 24 inches in width. However, it earns a 5 out of 5 on our footprint and portability rating, because you can easily maneuver it into an upright position using the front wheels, so you can store it out of the way. “I love rolling the rower out into the driveway during good weather,” Kate says. “But, you do have to clean it really well if you do that. Dust and dirt getting into the fan can damage parts.”

Should you want even more portability, it breaks down into two separate pieces for easy storage.

This rower uses air resistance, which is low maintenance. The seat is a bit firmer than those on other machines (there’s no padding). We’ve seen some complaints about the seat being uncomfortable, though none of the people on our team have any complaints.

This is the “Peloton” of rowers, folks. It’s just straight-up sexy. The price tag? Not so sexy, but at least the Hydow Wave is less expensive than the original Hydrow!

Anyway, the machine itself? Very high quality. And the guided workouts? Awesome.

Coaches who are on open water take you through workouts, which are displayed on a 16-inch HD touchscreen. There is a big library of options, and you can compete live with people around the world.

Another great thing about the Hydrow setup is that you can hop onto the Hydrow and row at your own pace. There are two ways to do this: Journey rows and Distance Rows. Journey rows have no set pace, instructor, or music—it’s just you and a view of your “boat” on the water for as long as you want, allowing you to focus on your rowing form and experience.

Distance rows are essentially the same thing, but the ride ends when you hit your preset distance. The distances range from 250 meters to 10,000 meters, or any distance within 180 minutes with the Open Row setting.The Hydrow Wave uses electromagnetic resistance, not air resistance. This means it’s very quiet, so it’s a great option for people who risk bothering their neighbors with an air rower.

The resistance profile on the Wave is a perfect 5 out of 5. If you go on Amazon and type in ‘rower,’ you’ll find a ton of rowers that are absolute crap and use magnetic resistance. The reason they’re crap is because the resistance isn’t consistent, and it ends up breaking down over time. The magnetic resistance on the Wave, however, is extremely smooth.

Historically, magnetic rowing machines were really cheap and easy to break, but the Hydrow Wave features magnetic resistance is done right. The ride is ultra-smooth, with no blips or bumps in the rowing stroke. At 102 pounds, the Hydrow is a heavy machine and one of the heavier rowers you’ll find. It uses a lot of steel in construction, which makes for a very stable experience.

However, we did find that the Wave isn’t easy to move around (though it’s still easier to move than the original Hydrow). And for vertical storage, you need to purchase the storage kit. However, this is a beautiful machine, so leaving it on the floor doesn’t really create an eyesore.

The MERACH Water Magnetic Rowing Machine emerges as an exceptional piece of home fitness equipment, offering a harmonious blend of magnetic and water resistance that simulates a professional rowing experience. This innovative dual resistance system not only caters to a variety of fitness levels but also provides the user with a more comprehensive workout, engaging different muscle groups for a full-body exercise. Especially noteworthy is the MERACH GO Technology, which ensures seamless real-time synchrony between resistance levels and your workout intensity, enhancing the overall rowing experience.

Crafted for convenience and efficiency, the rower boasts an intuitive assembly process that most can complete in under 45 minutes. Its design accentuates ergonomic comfort with customized pedals and a 3D ergonomic seat, which collectively promote proper form and minimize the risk of injury. Moreover, the machine’s ultra-quiet operation and compact footprint, complemented by its easy storage capability, make it a versatile addition to any home gym space. This quietude is achieved through upgraded bearings and a sturdy steel construction that dampens noise, creating a peaceful workout environment.

The integration of the FREE MERACH APP is a standout feature that digitizes your fitness journey, offering a spectrum of trainer-led classes and the compatibility with KINOMAP APP. Real-time tracking of fitness metrics can tremendously aid users in achieving fitness goals, making this smart machine an ally in the quest for a healthier lifestyle. In summary, the MERACH rowing machine is an inviting option for both novices and seasoned fitness enthusiasts looking to elevate their home workouts.

The Echelon Row-S Magnetic Rowing Machine provides a comprehensive workout solution for the space-conscious fitness enthusiast. It seamlessly blends high-tech features and practicality into a sleek piece of exercise machinery. Offering a solid frame that supports up to 300 pounds, along with a vast array of 32 resistance levels, users can customize the intensity of their rowing sessions to match their fitness goals. Additionally, it is designed to satisfy the demands of those living in smaller spaces through its thoughtful, foldable design, making it significantly easier to maneuver and store away when not in use.

The addition of a 22-inch HD touchscreen is a game-changer, offering live and on-demand classes through Echelon’s subscription services. This feature keeps users engaged and motivated, as well as providing valuable feedback on workout metrics including duration and calorie burn. Furthermore, the screen’s ability to flip is a noteworthy benefit, catering to users who wish to diversify their workout routines by incorporating off-rower floor exercises.

With a comfortable padded seat and convenience of dual water bottle holders, the Echelon Row-S ensures an enjoyable workout experience. The machine’s silent magnetic resistance ensures a smooth and quiet exercise session – ideal for shared living spaces. Designed with the modern user in mind, this Echelon rower is an excellent choice for those seeking an effective, low-impact workout that easily fits into the home environment without taking up excess space.

Embarking on a fitness journey requires the right equipment, and the Merach Q1S Rowing Machine may just be the perfect companion for those looking to enhance their cardiovascular health from the comfort of their home. Standing out in the market, this magnetic rower offers 16 levels of quiet resistance, allowing for a rigorous workout that remains whisper-quiet, ensuring a peaceful environment for both the user and others in the vicinity.

The Q1S also focuses on user convenience, allowing for a swift and straightforward assembly process that is achievable in under 30 minutes. Its durability is equally impressive, confidently accommodating individuals weighing up to 350 pounds, while its dual slide rail system offers a smooth, stable glide that minimizes the risk of tipping over during vigorous sessions.

The free Merach app pairs effortlessly with the rowing machine, offering a variety of workout courses and tracking various fitness metrics such as distance, speed, and calories burned. This feature is designed for those who seek to monitor their progress meticulously and stay motivated through a structured fitness regime. Furthermore, the machine’s space-saving design comes with built-in wheels for easy relocation and storage, making it a practical addition to any small living space.

In essence, the Merach Q1S Rowing Machine is an accessible, reliable, and user-friendly option for anyone aiming to incorporate rowing into their fitness routine.