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Rowing machines are a very effective way to train the entire body in a short amount of time. They are also great for burning calories for those losing weight and increasing endurance to support efforts like running. Magnetic rowing machines are a great option to have because they provide consistent resistance and they are a low-impact, low-noise machine that can be beneficial to many different fitness enthusiasts.
The Best Magnetic Rowing Machine - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Magnetic Rowing Machine: Echelon Row-s Connected Rowing Machine
- Best Air Magnetic Rowing Machine: NordicTrack RW600
- Best Interactive Magnetic Rowing Machine: Aviron Strong Series Rower
- Best Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine: ProForm Pro 750R Rower
- Best Premium Magnetic Rowing Machine: Hydrow
- Best Budget Magnetic Rowing Machine: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
- Best Magnetic Rowing Machine Under $500: MERACH Bluetooth Magnetic Rower Machine
Many people consider the Concept 2 the gold standard of rowers, but there are many great machines out there. The best magnetic rowing machines for many people starting a home gym can be found on this list, courtesy of the ACTIVE Reviews Team.
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Best Overall Magnetic Rowing Machine - Echelon Row-s Connected Rowing Machine
SPECS
- Weight: 114.5 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
- Dimensions: 84" L x 21" W X 47" H
- Features: 5-watt built-in Bluetooth Speakers
The Echelon Row-s has a very smooth motion on both the seat and the handle, which can make an already low-impact workout even more comfortable while you perform a full-body cardio workout. It's also very easy to use and provides several features that will help fitness enthusiasts of all fitness levels.
There are also foot adjustments and a comfortable handle, which will make exercising on it a comfortable experience. It is a long machine, but it's also foldable for easier storage. You can use this one in a home gym or regular room of your home.
What We Like
- 22" class HD touchscreen with 180-degree flip capability
- Connects to internet with WiFi or ethernet cable
- Machine is designed to support proper hip and back alignment
- 32 levels of resistance
What We Don't Like
- Heavy machine
- Subscription required for all interactive features
BUY: Echelon Row-s Connected Rowing Machine
Best Air Magnetic Rowing Machine - NordicTack RW600
SPECS
- Weight: 117 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs.
- Dimensions: 87.02" L x 22.0" W x 47.24" H
- Features: 10" HD Touchscreen
NordicTrack makes a variety of popular home fitness equipment, including rowing machines. The RW600 features a touchscreen that you can use to interact with iFit classes online. You can do your own workouts on the machine, as well.
There are 26 different resistance levels that will test athletes of all fitness disciplines and levels. The adjustable air resistance adds a different twist to the exercise, and it can provide a greater challenge when performing the row portion of the stroke.
What We Like
- Combination of air and magnetic resistance
- Very quiet machine
- Quick adjust pedals
What We Don't Like
- iFit subscription required for all features
- Touchscreen doesn't adjust
BUY: NordicTrack RW600
Best Interactive Magnetic Rowing Machine - Aviron Strong Series Rower
SPECS
- Weight: 114 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 507 lbs.
- Dimensions: 84" L x 27" W x 48" H
- Features: Over 100 lbs. of resistance
People who need to focus on strength and prefer interactive machines will want to check out this rower by Aviron. It will support users that weigh up to 500 pounds and it's built for hard training. Competitive rowers, strength athletes, and other serious athletes can put the 100-plus pounds of resistance to good use. Users can play games, take part in competitions, follow coaching programs, and more.
The better news is that it's very beginner-friendly. The 22-inch screen adjusts in position, and it is easy for the user to operate.
What We Like
- Designed for users as tall as 6'8"
- There are programs for all fitness levels
- Streaming platforms such as Netflix and Hulu are compatible
- 10-year frame warranty
What We Don't Like
- 1-year warranty on parts
- Must be close to a wall for a power outlet
BUY: Aviron Strong Series Rower
Best Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine - ProForm Pro 750R Rower
SPECS
- Weight: 116 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs.
- Dimensions: 86.5"L x 22"W x 45.5"H
- Features: Adjustable foot pedals and handlebar
The ProForm Pro 750R is a great choice if you have more than one person using it. The handlebar and foot pedals both adjust to suit the user's comfort. It also has a wide array of technology features such as Bluetooth speakers and a multicolor display screen.
The seat is molded for greater comfort and the oversized steel rail will support balance while you're pulling for speed or power. It can be stored in a closet or a corner of the room thanks to how small it folds up. This can help you make the most of the valuable floor space you have in your fitness area.
What We Like
- Inertia-enhanced flywheel
- Oversized pedals for larger feet
- Two 2-inch speakers included
What We Don't Like
- The screen is only 5"
- The handlebar is narrow
Best Premium Magnetic Rowing Machine - Hydrow
SPECS
- Weight: 145 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 375 lbs.
- Dimensions: 86"L x 25"W x 47"H
- Features: Designed to simulate water rowing
The Hydrow machine is designed to simulate water rowing, but with magnetic resistance. This is thanks to a combination of their webbed strap and drag resistance. Rowing athletes who want a machine that compares to being in the water without dealing with a water tank will be satisfied with this choice.
It's not a foldable machine, but it will stand vertically to make storage easier. It is a very strong rower that will withstand the toughest of workouts. Advanced or stronger trainees can count on this one for those more intense sessions.
What We Like
- Very high weight capacity
- 22" touchscreen
- 4 separate legs for greater stability and balance
What We Don't Like
- 36" inseam limit
- Eligibility for 30-day risk-free trial required
BUY: HYDROW
Best Budget Magnetic Rowing Machine - Sunny Health & Fitness Rowing Machine
SPECS
- Weight: 60.9 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs.
- Dimensions: 89" L X 18.9" W X 23.6" H
- Features: Comes in silver, black, or silver and black
This machine by Sunny Health & Fitness is a budget-friendly rower for beginners or people who are starting a home gym. It doesn't take up much space, so you can make the most out of the space you can commit to a personal workout area.
This is a simple machine to use, as well. The heavy-duty steel frame will last for a long time to come, so it can serve beginners well—even after they become advanced athletes. The padded seat will be more comfortable to use than less padded alternatives.
What We Like
- Dial adjustment for 8 resistance levels
- Track time, calories, and strokes
- Non-slip handlebar for grip support
- Non-slip footrest
- Floor stabilizer included
What We Don't Like
- Can't track personal info
- Low weight capacity (250 lbs.)
BUY: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
Best Magnetic Rowing Machine Under $500 - MERACH Bluetooth Magnetic Rowing Machine
SPECS
- Weight: 62 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs.
- Dimensions: 19.3"D x 68.1"W x 24.8"H
- Features: Dual-slide rail
The dual rails on the seat track make this a safer and more comfortable rowing experience. It will also hold more weight than most rowers in this category. This is a great option for people who are looking to lose weight or start a transformation.
The electromagnetic resistance will be comfortable for beginners, but it will also provide a challenge for advanced users. The price tag on this makes it affordable, as well, so people who are looking to upgrade their home gym can do so without breaking the bank.
What We Like
- Auto resistance synchronizes with instructors of online courses
- You can track your own data with an account
- 16 levels of resistance
What We Don't Like
- Does not fold
- Noisy when rowing aggressively
What to Look for in a Magnetic Rower
When looking for a magnetic rower, you should first try to find one that is easy to assemble. Most rowers will take about an hour to put together, and they will include the needed tools, as well. The screen and instructions should also be easy to understand and learn—you'd rather be training than trying to figure out how to access the features on a touchscreen if there is one.
The weight capacity of the machine also matters, especially if you're going to begin a weight-loss transformation. The machine should be solid enough to use, and it should be strong enough for you to have adequate resistance both now and in the future as you get stronger.
Last, but not least, you want to be able to store it easily. Most rowers fold, but some stand on one end for vertical storage. If you prefer a folding rower, it should be simple to fold and unfold. Vertical standing machines should have wheels for easy transporting.
Benefits of Magnetic Rowing Machines
The magnetic rowing machine provides a full-body workout with low-impact resistance. You can burn calories and train over half the muscles in your body at the same time with a magnetic rowing machine. They also will test your endurance and strength if you use a heavy level of resistance. The rowing motion will challenge your posterior chain while the core and lower body will still be working as you return to the starting position.
Rowing can also be more enjoyable than walking on a treadmill or taking on a high-impact form of cardio. You can store a rowing machine in any room of your home, and setting them up is simple.
How Does a Magnetic Rowing Machine Work?
The resistance is provided by magnets instead of air or water. The distance between the two magnets is what makes the rowing motion more challenging. As the magnets separate, they offer resistance, which is when you're pulling. As they come back together, that resistance decreases. The resistance on most machines is changed digitally or by mechanical sliders.
FAQs About Magnetic Rowing Machines
Are magnetic rowing machines quiet?
Compared to water and air rowers, magnetic rowers are considerably quiet machines. The magnetic resistance is quieter than a chain or strap that is directly connected to the fan wheel.
Which is better: a magnetic or a water rower?
It depends on what you're using the rower for. If you want to simulate water rowing or have a machine that provides more resistance on the pull, then you should consider a water rower. If you want a quiet machine with consistent resistance throughout the stroke, then a magnetic rower would be the way to go.
Do magnetic rowers need electricity?
Some machines need access to a plug, especially if you want to use them for online subscriptions or if they have a large touchscreen. Some machines only need batteries to operate the display screen. If you want an advanced machine, then one that requires a plug will be necessary.
About the Author
Roger has worked in the fitness industry for over 20 years in a variety of roles, including as a personal trainer, fitness class instructor, supplement advisor, nutritionist, and as a writer. He has contributed to Men's Health, Muscle & Fitness, BarBend, Iron Man Magazine, and Bodybuilding.com.
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