Best Rowing Machines 2026
After comparing 12+ rowers using expert reviews and user feedback, we found the best for HYROX, CrossFit, and home fitness
Our Top Picks
The Quick Answer
After researching 12+ rowing machines against manufacturer specs, expert reviews, and thousands of verified owner reviews, the Concept2 RowErg ($990) is the best rowing machine for most athletes. It's the gold standard used in every HYROX competition, CrossFit box, and Olympic training center worldwide. The PM5 monitor provides accurate, comparable data across every Concept2 ever made. For guided workouts, the Hydrow Origin ($1,995) delivers Peloton-style classes with stunning on-water footage. For your living room, the beautiful WaterRower Oak ($1,298) offers smooth water resistance and furniture-grade design.
Our Picks at a Glance
| Rower | Best For | Resistance | Monitor | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concept2 RowErg | Best Overall | Air | PM5 | ★★★★★ | $990 |
| Hydrow Origin | Best Classes | Magnetic | 22" HD | ★★★★★ | $1,995 |
| WaterRower Oak | Best Design | Water | S4 BLE | ★★★★☆ | $1,298 |
| Hydrow Wave | Compact | Magnetic | 16" HD | ★★★★☆ | $2,295 |
| WaterRower Lite | Budget Water | Water | S4 Monitor | ★★★★☆ | $1,098 |
Training for HYROX?
Station 4 of every HYROX race is a 1,000-meter row on a Concept2 RowErg. There's no substitute—if you're training for HYROX, you need to train on the same machine you'll race on. The PM5 monitor tracks your splits so you can dial in your race pace.
Get the Concept2 RowErg →Detailed Reviews
Concept2 RowErg
The RowErg is the undisputed king of rowing machines. Every Olympic rower, CrossFit Games athlete, and HYROX competitor trains on Concept2. The air resistance flywheel provides smooth, infinite resistance that scales perfectly with your effort. The PM5 monitor connects to every major fitness app and tracks splits, watts, and calories with scientific accuracy.
Pros:
- HYROX/CrossFit standard
- Unmatched durability
- PM5 accuracy & connectivity
- Separates for storage
- No subscription needed
Cons:
- Louder than magnetic
- No built-in screen
- Industrial look
Hydrow Origin
The Hydrow Origin (the 22-inch flagship, formerly sold as the Hydrow Pro) is the Peloton of rowing. The stunning 22" HD screen displays live and on-demand classes filmed on actual water—you're rowing alongside elite athletes on rivers worldwide. Electromagnetic resistance is whisper-quiet (apartment-friendly). The instructors are Olympic-caliber rowers who coach technique while pushing your limits.
Pros:
- Immersive on-water classes
- 22" HD rotating screen
- Whisper-quiet operation
- Elite instructor coaching
- Stores upright
Cons:
- $44/mo subscription
- Expensive upfront
- Magnetic feel differs from air
WaterRower Oak
The WaterRower is as much furniture as fitness equipment. Handcrafted from sustainably-sourced Appalachian hardwood, it looks stunning in any room. The water tank provides smooth, natural resistance with a satisfying swoosh that mimics actual rowing. Stores upright when not in use. Made in the USA since 1988.
Pros:
- Stunning wood design
- Natural water resistance
- Soothing swoosh sound
- Stores upright
- Made in USA
Cons:
- Water needs treatment
- Less competition data
- Basic S4 monitor
Hydrow Wave
The Wave brings Hydrow's premium connected experience to a smaller footprint. The 16" HD screen streams the same library of on-water workouts. Lighter frame folds and stores more easily than the Origin. Same electromagnetic resistance and whisper-quiet operation. Perfect for apartments or smaller spaces. Amazon pricing on the Wave runs higher than ordering direct from Hydrow, so compare both before you buy.
Pros:
- Smaller footprint than Origin
- Same workout library
- Foldable design
- Apartment-quiet
Cons:
- Smaller 16" screen
- $44/mo subscription
- Lighter build
WaterRower Lite
The WaterRower Lite delivers WaterRower's smooth water resistance and handcrafted oak frame at the lowest price in the lineup. The water tank and rowing experience are identical to the Oak, with a pared-back S4 monitor package. Great for those who want the natural water feel and USA-made build without the top-tier price.
Pros:
- Same water resistance
- Lowest WaterRower price
- Handcrafted oak frame
- Stores upright
Cons:
- Pared-back accessories
- Basic S4 monitor
- Water needs treatment
Understanding Resistance Types
Air Resistance
Examples: Concept2
Flywheel spins faster as you pull harder, providing infinite, scalable resistance. The most realistic rowing feel. Louder than other types. The competition standard.
Water Resistance
Examples: WaterRower
Paddles in a water tank create natural, smooth resistance. Pleasant swooshing sound. Requires water purification tablets. Beautiful aesthetics.
Magnetic Resistance
Examples: Hydrow
Electromagnets provide quiet, smooth resistance. Adjustable levels. Whisper-quiet for apartments. Less realistic feel than air/water.
How We Evaluated
We compared 12 rowing machines using manufacturer specifications, expert reviews, and extensive feedback from verified owners who use them in real homes. We assessed:
- Stroke feel: smoothness of the drive and recovery as owners describe it
- Monitor accuracy: data consistency and app connectivity
- Build quality: materials, stability, expected lifespan
- Noise levels: how loud owners report each rower during intense rowing
- Storage: ease of folding, storing, and moving
- Connected features: class quality, instructor engagement, content variety
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best rowing machine for 2026?
The Concept2 RowErg is the best rowing machine for most athletes. It's the gold standard used in gyms, CrossFit boxes, and HYROX competitions worldwide. At $990, it offers unmatched durability, accurate performance tracking, and a massive online community.
What rowing machine is used in HYROX?
HYROX competitions exclusively use the Concept2 RowErg. Station 4 requires a 1,000-meter row. If you're training for HYROX, the Concept2 is the only choice.
Is Hydrow worth the money?
Hydrow is worth it if you need motivation and prefer guided workouts. The immersive on-water classes are excellent. However, you'll need the $44/month subscription. For pure performance training, the Concept2 at $990 is better value.
Air vs water vs magnetic resistance?
Air resistance (Concept2) provides the most realistic feel with infinite scaling. Water resistance (WaterRower) offers smooth, natural rowing with pleasant sound. Magnetic (Hydrow) is quietest but feels less realistic. For serious training, air or water is preferred.
Ready to Row?
The Concept2 RowErg is the gold standard for a reason. Train on what you race on.
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