Best Rowing Machines 2026
After testing 12+ rowers for 300+ hours, we found the best for HYROX, CrossFit, and home fitness
Our Top Picks
The Quick Answer
After 300+ hours of testing across 12+ rowing machines, 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 ($2,495) delivers Peloton-style classes with stunning on-water footage. For your living room, the beautiful WaterRower ($1,295) 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 Pro | Best Classes | Magnetic | 22" HD | ★★★★★ | $2,495 |
| WaterRower Oak | Best Design | Water | S4 BLE | ★★★★☆ | $1,295 |
| Hydrow Wave | Compact | Magnetic | 16" HD | ★★★★☆ | $1,895 |
| WaterRower A1 | Budget Water | Water | A1 Monitor | ★★★★☆ | $899 |
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 Pro
Hydrow 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 and price. The 16" HD screen streams the same library of on-water workouts. Lighter frame folds and stores more easily than the Pro. Same electromagnetic resistance and whisper-quiet operation. Perfect for apartments or smaller spaces.
Pros:
- $600 less than Pro
- Same workout library
- Foldable design
- Apartment-quiet
Cons:
- Smaller 16" screen
- $44/mo subscription
- Lighter build
WaterRower A1
The A1 delivers WaterRower's smooth water resistance at an entry-level price. The frame is aluminum alloy instead of wood, but the water tank and rowing experience are identical. Great for those who want natural water feel without the premium for hardwood aesthetics.
Pros:
- Same water resistance
- Entry price point
- Lighter aluminum frame
- Stores upright
Cons:
- Less premium look
- Basic A1 monitor
- Lower max user weight
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 Tested
Over six months, our testers logged 300+ hours on 12 rowing machines in our facility and real homes. We evaluated:
- Stroke feel — Smoothness of the drive and recovery
- Monitor accuracy — Data consistency and app connectivity
- Build quality — Materials, stability, expected lifespan
- Noise levels — Decibel readings during intense rowing
- Storage — Ease of folding, storing, and moving
- Connected features — Class quality, instructor engagement, content variety
Not Sure Which Rower Is Right for You?
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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.
Check Concept2 RowErg on Amazon →