9 Best Rowing Machines for Home Use (October 2026)
The best home rowing machines include the Merach Q1S Magnetic Rowing Machine Indoor for quiet guided workouts, the YOSUDA Rowing Machine for Home for 16-level resistance, and the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rower for upright storage.
On this page (4 sections)
The best row machine for home use for most people is the Merach Q1S, because it combines quiet magnetic resistance, dual rails and app-based workout tracking. The Sunny is an alternative if you want vertical storage, while the Concept2 suits buyers who value its PM5 monitor and air resistance.
A home rower needs room for the full stroke, a place to store it between sessions and a resistance style you'll want to use. If you are new to rowing, see how to use a rowing machine.
Compare those points before choosing by screen or app features.
If budget is your first filter, start with our guide to the best low cost rowing machine. For a different home strength setup, see What Is the Best Cable Machine for a Home Gym?.
Our picks at a glance
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1
Best for quiet guided workoutsMerach Q1S Magnetic Rowing Machine Indoor
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for upright storageSunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rower
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Best for higher weight capacityCheck it - 5
Best for small roomsCheck it - 6
Check itYOSUDA Water Rowing Machine Foldable for Home
Best for a water-like stroke - 7
Check itWenoker Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home
Best for device-supported sessions - 8
Check itConcept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine
Best for detailed performance tracking - 9
Check itWaterRower Ash Rowing Machine with S4 Monitor
Best for an ash-wood frame
Which home rowing machines suit different spaces and routines?
The Merach Q1S is the leading all-around choice here, followed by the other products in descending score order. These picks cover magnetic, air and water resistance, along with different storage options.
Merach Q1S Magnetic Rowing Machine Indoor: Best for quiet guided workouts
- Magnetic resistance
- Dual slide rails
- Phone app workout data
- Built-in wheels
The quiet magnetic flywheel, dual rails and app workout data suit home cardio where noise and workout tracking matter.
Pros
- Dual-rail design
- App records workout metrics
- Built-in wheels for moving
Cons
- Phone or tablet not included
- Recommended use space is 1.6 x 5.7 ft
The Merach Q1S pairs magnetic resistance with dual slide rails. Merach describes its flywheel as quiet, and the machine connects to an app for courses and workout data such as distance, time, speed, cadence and heart rate.
The recommended use area is 1.6 x 5.7 ft, and the recommended storage space is 1.6 x 2.1 ft. Built-in wheels help move this 42 lb machine.
Choose it if a quiet room and recorded workout metrics matter more than a built-in screen. The phone or tablet isn't included, so plan to use your own device for the app features.
YOSUDA Rowing Machine for Home: Best for 16-level resistance
- 16 magnetic resistance levels
- App-connected training
- Compact footprint
- Quiet operation
Sixteen resistance levels and app-connected training give this rower options for a range of home routines.
Pros
- 16 resistance levels
- App-connected training
- Compact footprint
Cons
- Recommended user height is 4 ft 5 in to 5 ft 11 in
- No stated upright storage feature
The YOSUDA home rower offers 16 magnetic resistance levels and app-connected training. Its display tracks time, distance, total count, stroke count and calories.
The machine measures 57.88 x 17.72 x 24.81 in and is described as covering 2.9 sq ft. YOSUDA recommends it for users from 4 ft 5 in to 5 ft 11 in, which is a useful fit check before buying.
This is a good match if adjustable resistance and a small footprint matter. The product data doesn't specify upright storage, so check whether your planned storage spot works with its dimensions.
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rower: Best for upright storage
- Vertical storage
- 16 magnetic resistance levels
- Bluetooth SunnyFit app
- LCD workout metrics
Vertical storage helps reclaim floor space, while the LCD monitor and SunnyFit app cover tracking and guided sessions.
Pros
- Stores upright
- Device holder included
- SunnyFit app has no subscription requirement
Cons
- 300 lb maximum weight recommendation
- No folded storage dimensions provided
The Sunny rower stands out for vertical storage and a built-in device holder. Its LCD monitor shows time, distance, estimated calories, stroke count, strokes per minute and 500-meter split.
Sixteen magnetic resistance levels adjust with the tension knob, and the SunnyFit app connects by Bluetooth for guided workouts and tracking. The padded seat, foam-covered handlebar and adjustable foot straps support comfort and positioning during a workout.
Pick Sunny if you want to store a rower upright and keep a screen in view while training. Its maximum weight recommendation is 300 lb, lower than several other options here.
Dripex Rowing Machine: Best for higher weight capacity
- 360 lb maximum weight recommendation
- 16 magnetic resistance levels
- Dual slide rails
- Vertical storage
A 360 lb maximum weight recommendation and 16 resistance levels make this a flexible option for shared home workouts.
Pros
- Highest stated weight capacity among these magnetic picks
- Dual rails
- Transport wheels and vertical storage
Cons
- No folded storage dimensions provided
- App connection requires a compatible device
The Dripex combines dual rails, 16 resistance levels and vertical storage. Its maximum weight recommendation is 360 lb, and the 48.8 in slide rail is intended for users from 4 ft 5 in to 6 ft 5 in.
A digital monitor tracks time, distance, calories and stroke counts, while Bluetooth connects to compatible apps. Transport wheels help reposition the 46 lb machine, and it can be stood vertically when not in use.
Consider it if weight capacity and adjustable resistance are high on your list. The brand describes the machine as operating below 15 decibels, though room acoustics and the floor beneath the rower can affect what you hear.
YPOO Rowing Machine for Home: Best for small rooms
- 16 magnetic resistance levels
- Vertical storage
- 2.9 sq ft footprint
- Adjustable tablet holder
Its stated 2.9 sq ft footprint and vertical storage make it worth considering when floor space is tight.
Pros
- Stated compact footprint
- 16 resistance levels
- Tablet holder adjusts
Cons
- Height recommendation tops out at 6 ft 3 in
- No folded storage dimensions provided
The YPOO rower is a compact magnetic option with 16 resistance levels and vertical storage. It measures 65 x 17.7 x 23.6 in, and YPOO describes its footprint as 2.9 sq ft.
The LCD monitor tracks time, strokes per minute, distance, calories and count. Its adjustable tablet holder and compatibility with YPOOFIT and Kinomap let you follow guided workouts or view a screen while rowing.
Choose it when you want a small footprint and upright storage in one rower. Its stated height range tops out at 6 ft 3 in, so taller users should check their fit.
YOSUDA Water Rowing Machine Foldable for Home: Best for a water-like stroke
- Water resistance
- 22 L tank
- Foldable design
- Supports users up to 6 ft 6 in
Water resistance and a 22 L tank offer a different stroke feel, with folding and built-in wheels for storage.
Pros
- Foldable design
- 400 lb maximum weight recommendation
- Bluetooth monitor
Cons
- Longer than the magnetic rowers listed here
- Tank needs room during use
The YOSUDA water rower uses a 22 L tank and water resistance. Its Bluetooth monitor tracks distance, time, strokes and calories, and it can sync with Kinomap, Apple Health or Google Fit.
The 73.6 in length needs more room during use than the shorter magnetic rowers above. It folds 180 degrees and rolls on built-in wheels to help reclaim floor space after training.
This suits buyers who want water resistance and a folding frame. Its wood frame supports users up to 6 ft 6 in, and its 400 lb maximum weight recommendation is the highest among these picks.
Wenoker Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home: Best for device-supported sessions
- Magnetic resistance
- Bluetooth app compatibility
- LCD monitor
- Transport wheels
A tablet holder, Bluetooth app compatibility and LCD tracking support home workouts with a screen nearby.
Pros
- Bluetooth app compatibility
- Tablet holder
- Transport wheels
Cons
- Dimensions do not appear to describe a full-length rower
- No explicit upright storage dimensions
The Wenoker rower offers magnetic resistance, Bluetooth app compatibility and a tablet holder. Its LCD monitor displays time, speed, distance and calories, so you can track basic workout measures without an app.
Wenoker describes the resistance as quiet and the machine as compact, with transport wheels for moving it. The stated dimensions are 33.66 x 22.44 x 7 in, which don't appear to describe a full-length rower.
Confirm the assembled dimensions before buying. Make sure the full rower fits your workout space.
Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine: Best for detailed performance tracking
- Air resistance
- Performance Monitor 5
- Separates into two pieces
- 500 lb user capacity
The PM5 monitor records workout data, and the rower separates into two pieces for storage.
Pros
- PM5 monitor included
- Separates for storage
- 500 lb user capacity
Cons
- Recommended use space is 9 x 4 ft
- Longer footprint than compact magnetic rowers
The Concept2 RowErg uses air resistance and includes a Performance Monitor 5. The PM5 provides workout data, supports Bluetooth and ANT+, and connects with compatible apps and heart-rate monitors.
This rower separates into two pieces for storage and has caster wheels for moving it. The recommended use space is 9 x 4 ft, so measure the area before choosing it for a spare room.
Pick the RowErg if PM5 features and air resistance suit your training. Its larger use footprint makes room planning more important than it is for the compact magnetic picks.
WaterRower Ash Rowing Machine with S4 Monitor: Best for an ash-wood frame
- Water resistance
- Ash wood frame
- S4 monitor
- Stores upright
An ash-wood frame and water resistance suit buyers who want a rower that can stand on end when not in use.
Pros
- Ash wood frame
- Water-based resistance
- Stores on end
Cons
- 103.5 lb with water
- Long footprint when set up
The WaterRower Ash uses water resistance and an ash-wood frame. Its S4 monitor tracks workout information, and the frame can be stored on end after use.
At 82 in long, it needs a generous clear space for rowing. The unit weighs 103.5 lb with water, so plan where it will stay before relying on upright storage.
Choose it if the wood frame and water-driven stroke suit your preference. At 103.5 lb with water, it may be less convenient to move often than lighter rowers.
How did we choose the best home rowing machines?
We compared resistance type, storage options, noise claims, dimensions and comfort features against what matters in a home room. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
A rower that fits your floor but is awkward to store may see less use. If you're relocating a larger strength machine, see Centr 3 moving guide.
We gave close attention to models with vertical storage, folding frames or a two-piece design, and noted when stored dimensions aren't stated.
Comfort is harder to compare from specs alone. Seat shape, handle grip, foot straps and user-height guidance can help narrow options, but they don't tell you exactly how a rower will feel during your own workout.
What should you compare before buying a row machine for home use?
Start with the resistance style, then check the use footprint and storage plan. A rower has to fit both your stroke and the room you need to keep usable.
Which resistance type fits your home?
Magnetic rowers may suit buyers who want adjustable resistance and quieter operation, based on the brands' descriptions. The Merach, YOSUDA, Sunny, Dripex and YPOO models here use magnetic resistance.
Air and water rowers provide different resistance styles. The Concept2 uses air resistance with an adjustable damper, while the two water rowers use water resistance.
How much room does a home rower need?
Use the assembled dimensions and the recommended workout space where available. For a larger strength machine, compare commercial functional trainer weights and dimensions.
For another cable machine size reference, see cable crossover dimensions.
Merach recommends 1.6 x 5.7 ft for use, while Concept2 recommends 9 x 4 ft.
Also measure the height and width of your planned storage position. Upright storage saves floor area, but leave enough clearance to lift or roll the machine safely.
What makes a rower comfortable to use?
Check the seat, handle, foot supports and user-height range together. Sunny lists a padded seat, foam-covered handlebar and adjustable foot straps, while the Concept2 has an ergonomic handle and adjustable footrests.
If you're comparing rowing with another home strength option, our guide to Functional Trainer vs Rowing Machine for Back Gains explains how the two serve different training goals. For a cable-based back exercise at home, see our DIY lat pulldown guide.
Which rower should you choose for home cardio?
Choose the Merach Q1S if quiet magnetic resistance, dual rails and app data are your priorities. Choose the Sunny if you want vertical storage and a device holder, or the Concept2 if air resistance and PM5 tracking suit your routine.
Pick a water rower if you prefer water resistance and have room for its longer frame. Compare the use area and storage position with your room, then revisit the best low cost rowing machine if budget is the deciding factor.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for quiet guided workouts
Merach Q1S Magnetic Rowing Machine Indoor
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for upright storage
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rower
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best row machine for home use?
The Merach Q1S is a strong home choice if quiet magnetic resistance, dual rails and app workout tracking are priorities. For upright storage, compare the Sunny and Dripex.
If you want air resistance and a detailed monitor, consider the Concept2, while water rowers offer a different stroke feel.
Are magnetic rowing machines quiet enough for an apartment?
Magnetic rowers may suit shared rooms if you want to avoid the sound of water or air resistance. Merach, YOSUDA and Sunny describe their magnetic models as quiet.
Noise also depends on the seat, belt and floor, so consider the whole setup.
Which rowing machines store upright?
The Merach Q1S, Sunny, Dripex and YPOO offer vertical or upright storage. The WaterRower stores on end, while the Concept2 separates into two pieces.
Check the storage height and clearance against your room before choosing.
Is a water rower harder to store than a magnetic rower?
It depends on the model and available space. The YOSUDA water rower folds 180 degrees and rolls on built-in wheels, while the WaterRower stores on end.
The Merach, Sunny and other magnetic models also offer storage features, but compare the actual stored dimensions.
