· Maggie · Reviews/Home · 8 min read
Top 6 Leading Rowing Machines for Home Workouts in 2025 Compared
Discover the 6 best rowing machines for home workouts that can take your fitness routine to the next level. These top picks combine durability, performance, and value to deliver an effective full-body workout right at home.
Introduction
Building a home gym can feel overwhelming, but finding the right equipment doesn’t have to be a headache. If you’re looking for a workout that hits every muscle group without taking up half your living room, a rowing machine might just be your new best friend. These machines are compact, versatile, and perfect for anyone aiming to boost their cardio, build strength, or just stay active without leaving the house.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through six of the best rowing machines on the market right now. I’ve tested them, compared their features, and broken down the pros and cons so you can find the one that fits your lifestyle, budget, and space. Whether you’re a fitness newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s get into it!
YOSUDA Magnetic/Water Rowing Machine
The YOSUDA Magnetic/Water Rowing Machine is a solid pick if you’re after a mix of affordability and functionality. It’s foldable, so it won’t hog your space, and it can handle users up to 350 lbs. The rowing motion is smooth and quiet, which is a big plus if you’re sharing your home with others. Plus, it comes with Bluetooth connectivity and app support, though the app can be a bit hit-or-miss depending on your phone.
The seat is comfy, and the machine feels sturdy when you’re using it. That said, if you’re over 6 feet tall, you might find the stroke length a little short. The resistance levels are decent, but if you’re an advanced user, you might wish for a bit more intensity. Assembly is pretty straightforward, though some parts might need a little extra finesse to get just right.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quiet and smooth operation | Resistance might feel light for advanced users |
| Foldable and space-saving | Stroke length could be tight for taller folks |
| Bluetooth and app compatibility | App experience can be inconsistent |
Dripex Rowing Machine for Home Use
The Dripex Rowing Machine is a standout for its versatility and ease of use. Unlike the YOSUDA, which combines magnetic and water resistance, the Dripex sticks to magnetic resistance with 16 adjustable levels. This makes it a great choice if you like to fine-tune your workout intensity. The dual slide rail system keeps things smooth and quiet, and the Bluetooth app support is a nice touch for tracking your progress.
Assembly is a breeze—it took me less than 30 minutes—and the compact design makes it easy to tuck away when you’re done. The LCD monitor is simple but gets the job done, showing basics like time, distance, and calories burned. While it doesn’t have the water resistance feature of the YOSUDA, it makes up for it with app connectivity and a competitive price.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 16 adjustable resistance levels | No water resistance option |
| Bluetooth app support | Basic LCD monitor display |
| Compact and easy to store | Limited advanced workout metrics |
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Compact Full Motion Rowing Machine
If you’re tight on space but still want a full-body workout, the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Compact Rowing Machine is worth a look. It’s compact, has an extra-long rail for taller users, and can handle up to 350 lbs. The full-motion arms give you a smooth, natural rowing experience that works your upper and lower body equally.
One of the coolest features is the optional SunnyFit® app, which offers guided workouts and helps you track your progress. The LCD monitor is basic but functional, showing time, strokes, and calories burned. Assembly is straightforward, and the machine is lightweight enough to move around easily.
That said, the hydraulic resistance system has its limits. It can overheat during long sessions, and the foot straps could be more secure. While it’s sturdy, it might not hold up to heavy daily use over the long haul.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and easy to store | Hydraulic resistance can overheat |
| Full-motion arms for full-body workout | Foot straps could be better |
| Optional app for guided workouts | Build quality might not last forever |
MOSUNY Magnetic Rowing Machine
The MOSUNY Magnetic Rowing Machine is a tech lover’s dream. With 16 levels of magnetic resistance, a dual slide rail for stability, and a 350 lb weight capacity, it’s built to handle a wide range of users. The Bluetooth connectivity pairs seamlessly with apps like KINOMAP, making your workouts more interactive and fun.
Assembly is quick—under 30 minutes—and the foldable design makes it a great fit for small spaces. The LCD monitor tracks all the essentials, so you can keep an eye on your progress. That said, some users have reported issues with the resistance dial not working right out of the box, which can be frustrating. Still, the quiet operation and comfy seat make it a solid choice for daily use.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 16 adjustable resistance levels | Resistance dial issues reported |
| Bluetooth and app compatibility | Limited resistance for advanced users |
| Compact and easy to store | Assembly instructions could be clearer |
Sunny Health & Fitness Flip & Foldable Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health & Fitness Flip & Foldable Rowing Machine is a solid choice if you’re after a low-impact, full-body workout. The extended slide rail ensures a smooth rowing motion, and the optional extra-long rail is a nice touch for taller users. It’s relatively quiet, so you won’t disturb the household, and the free SunnyFit app adds a layer of connectivity for tracking your progress.
The foldable design is a big plus for storage, though the folding mechanism can be a bit finicky. The machine is sturdy and supports up to 350 lbs, but the resistance levels might feel limited for advanced users. The LCD monitor is basic, showing time, strokes, and calories burned, but it doesn’t track more advanced metrics like stroke rate or distance.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Foldable design for easy storage | Folding mechanism can be tricky |
| Quiet operation | Limited resistance levels |
| Includes free SunnyFit app | Basic LCD monitor |
Feierdun Compact Adjustable Rowing Machine
If you’re on a budget and need something compact, the Feierdun Compact Rowing Machine is a great option. It offers 12 levels of resistance, folds up easily, and is perfect for small spaces. Assembly is straightforward, and the hydraulic resistance system operates quietly, so you won’t wake up the neighbors.
That said, the 300 lb weight capacity and compact design might not suit taller users or those looking for a more robust machine. Compared to the Sunny Health & Fitness models, it lacks advanced features like Bluetooth or app support, but it’s a solid choice for beginners or casual users.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable price | Limited resistance levels |
| Compact and foldable design | Not ideal for taller users |
| Quiet hydraulic resistance | Lacks advanced features |
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of rowing machine is best for home use?
Magnetic rowers are usually the best choice for home use. They’re quiet, low-maintenance, and offer smooth resistance. Air rowers are great for a more dynamic feel, but they can be noisy. Water rowers give you that soothing “real rowing” experience but require more upkeep. For most people, a magnetic rower hits the sweet spot.
Is 20 minutes of rowing a day enough?
Absolutely! Twenty minutes of rowing at a moderate to high intensity can do wonders for your cardio, strength, and calorie burn. It’s a great starting point, but if you’re aiming for more advanced goals, you might need to ramp it up a bit.
Can I get in shape with just a rowing machine?
You bet! Rowing is a full-body workout that hits your legs, core, back, and arms while giving your heart a solid workout. Stick with it, and you’ll see results in no time.
Can you lose belly fat on a rowing machine?
Yes, but remember, you can’t spot-reduce fat. Rowing helps burn calories and tone your core, which can lead to a leaner midsection over time. Pair it with a healthy diet, and you’re golden.
What are the disadvantages of a rowing machine?
Improper form can lead to injuries, so make sure you’re using it correctly. They can also take up a lot of space, and the repetitive motion might get boring for some people. But if you mix it up with other workouts, you’ll be fine.
Is there a better exercise than rowing?
Rowing is hard to beat for a full-body workout, but it really depends on your goals. Swimming, cycling, or running might suit you better if you’re looking for variety. The best exercise is the one you’ll stick with!
Final Recommendations
- For Beginners: Start with the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Compact Rowing Machine. It’s affordable, easy to use, and gets the job done.
- For Small Spaces: The Feierdun Compact Adjustable Rowing Machine is your go-to. It folds up easily and won’t take over your living room.
- For Tech Lovers: The MOSUNY Magnetic Rowing Machine is packed with features like Bluetooth and app connectivity.
- For Serious Fitness Goals: The Sunny Health & Fitness Flip & Foldable Rowing Machine is sturdy, durable, and built to last.
Affiliate Disclosure
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click on one of the product links above and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my work and keeps the reviews coming!
