Top 8 Best Inexpensive Rowing Machines (Reviews and Buyer’s Guide)

Due to the increasing popularity of home workouts, equipment that address these needs are becoming favorites. Thus, rowing machines have found their way to the list of the most common home workout equipment. They help you build up your aerobic fitness, torch calories, and sculpt your back, hamstrings, and glutes. This article provides you with a review of the best inexpensive rowing machines that will give you these benefits.

Everyone is looking for value for money. You would like to spend the least but get the best out of it. This is what inexpensive rowing machines in our list offer you. They are reputable and come from established manufacturers with long experience in the industry. These rowing machines are compact, have exceptional functionality, and, most importantly, custom-made.

Therefore, in this article, we take you through the most reputable and inexpensive rowing machines in the market. A buyer’s guide is included to enable you to have a rough idea of what you should be looking for in a rowing machine.

Why Should I Buy The Best Inexpensive Rowing Machine?

Rowing machines are a staple for those who would like to learn endurance and strengthen their muscles. They offer you with total body workouts, low-impact exercises, and come with great benefits for your heart and lungs. These machines are a great option for treadmills and elliptical trainers. If you are looking to lose weight and have fun in your workout sessions, then rowing machines are your portion.

To those looking for a piece of fitness equipment that is easy to use and cuts through all the ages, rowing machines are their best fit. They not only provide individuals from all fitness levels with an opportunity to work out but are also unisex. Users are at liberty to adjust the intensity of workout they so wish and can do so with no injury risks. These machines not only keep you fit but also improve your posture, which is unlike other fitness equipment.

Most importantly, you need a pocket-friendly rowing machine. It will be uneconomical, shifting from a treadmill or elliptical machine to an expensive rowing machine if it costs much more. You need an inexpensive rowing machine to address costs and enable you to have fun during your workout sessions. The eight rowing machines in this article fetch great prices that will cushion you from financial stress and, above all, give you just what you need.

The Best Inexpensive Rowing Machine Buyers’ Guide

Our review treats you to the best inexpensive rowing machines on Amazon. However, you may be interested in doing your own research to find the rower that best fits your unique fitness needs. As such, we provide you with a guide as to what aspects of these inexpensive rowers should inform your purchase decisions.

  1. Design

The underlying design of every rower is the same. Space considerations, however, may demand some specific design considerations like foldability. If you live in an apartment or condo and have space limitations, you may have to go for a foldable design and a more compact rowing machine. Most budget rowers are foldable and compact and therefore save you the hassle of storage and workout space.

  1. Type of Resistance

The type of resistance in a rowing machine determines the smoothness of workout and whether or not you will have a noiseless workout. Inexpensive rowers generally come in different resistance types. Air resistance is particularly good but can be noisy and generally fetch higher prices. Most entry-level rowers use magnetic resistance. This type of resistance is generally quiet but deprives the users of the authentic feel compared to water and air resistance. Hydraulic resistance rowers are cheaper and quiet. The workouts are, however, not very smooth in this case. Incline resistance rowers, though primitive, provide you with a decent workout and very affordable.

  1. Workout Goals

The goals for which you are purchasing a rower should determine the type of machine you go for. Most inexpensive rowing machines are suitable for entry-level users. Be that as it may, you need a rower that will accommodate you as you advance through the different fitness levels. Therefore, it is advisable to opt for the rower that will enable you to advance through the various fitness levels at a reasonable price.

  1. Display

You need a rower that will enable you to track your workout progress with ease. You should, therefore, ensure that the machine has a monitor that is clear and easily readable. A heart rate monitor is crucial to enable you to track your pulse during a workout.

  1. Auxiliary Features

Features like transportation wheels, water bottle holders, and gadget holders may vital to some users. Bluetooth connectivity is also a great feature that users may find convenient. While these features may not be primary, they serve to spice up your workout experiences and should therefore be considered.

Top 8 Best Inexpensive Rowing Machines

  1. Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine

 

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Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 Hydraulic Rowing Machine with Smart Workout App - Rower Workout Machine with Cylinder Resistance - Up to 250 lbs Weight Capacity
  • STAMINA ROWING MACHINE - Our full-motion rower provides effective, natural rowing movement suitable for toning major muscle groups and stimulating the metabolism for fat burning. Experience more and support your overall cardiovascular health with our rower.
  • ALL-IN-ONE CARDIO EQUIPMENT - This versatile hydraulic rowing machine offers different workout possibilities suitable for strength training, targeting specific muscle groups, and toning the overall body and muscular core.
  • HYDRAULIC CYLINDER RESISTANCE - This row machine cardio is equipped with a ball-bearing roller system that allow low-impact movements that mimic rowing on the water. It offers 12 levels of adjustable hydraulic cylinder resistance for a smooth rowing stroke.
  • COMFORTABLE AND SPACE SAVING - The row machine is designed with a padded and molded seat for comfort during longer rowing routines and textured footplates with straps to keep your feet secure. When you’re done rowing, the exercise rower folds to save you space.

Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine tops our list of the best inexpensive rowing machines for its quality and value for money. The machine is one of the most affordable rowing machines in the market, fetching a price below $200. It is not only cheap but also come with features worth the price.

It provides users with real-world rowing feel through the full motion arms uniquely designed to provide a full-body workout. Users can track their workout progress on a multifunctional LCD monitor that shows time, stroke count, calories burned and total strokes accumulated.

The machine is sturdy and can support a maximum body weight of 250 pounds. It is easy to assemble and is foldable. You, therefore, do not have to stress yourself up with looking for an extra hand for installation and storage space. The machine comes with adjustable resistance levels and therefore, can be used by both beginners and professional athletes.

Pros
  • Very Affordable
  • Easy to assemble
  • Foldable and hence economical on space
  • Sturdy
Cons
  • Only 90 days’ warranty for parts one year for frame

 

  1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205

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Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 12 Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine Rower w/Digital Monitor
  • 12 LEVELS OF RESISTANCE: The hydraulic resistance system creates a smooth and quiet row, throughout 12 total levels of resistance. This is an ideal machine for low impact exercise when at home
  • DIGITAL MONITOR: Track your workout progress on the digital monitor, equipped with time, count, count total, calories, and scan functions.
  • ADJUSTABILITY: Tailor your workout experience by fitting the adjustable pedal straps to your feet, and level your rower to your space with the stabilizers.
  • ERGONOMIC: Enjoy a comfortable row with the pivoting foot pedals, foam handlebars, and cushioned seat designed with your comfort in mind.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 is here for its ability to provide users with all fitness benefits at a very affordable price. The machine’s cutting-edge design for functionality and comfort sets it apart from many others in the market. It comes with a wide cushioned, foamed, and padded seat for ultimate comfort when working out.

The LCD monitor enables users to track their workout progress, particularly displaying time, count, total count, calories burned, and scans. The pedals are nonslip and come with an adjustable strap that ensures maximum grip when working out. The handlebars are also nonslip for maximum grip and hence user safety when exercising.

The 12 levels of smooth hydraulic resistance enable users of different fitness levels to work out on the machine. The machine is quiet and has a heavy-duty commercial grade steel frame that makes it sturdy and stable. Therefore, it is compact and suitable for those with space limitations, especially those living in apartments and condos.

Considering those features, it’s one of the best inexpensive rowing machines. 

Pros
  • Compact and economical on space
  • Smooth and quiet workouts
  • Sturdy and stable
  • 12 levels of hydraulic resistance
Cons
  • The hydraulic piston gets hot reducing the efficiency of the rower
  • It is only suitable for beginners

 

  1. Fitness Reality 1000 Plus

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Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine with Bluetooth Workout Tracking Built-In, Additional Full Body Extended Exercises, App Compatible, Tablet Holder, Rowing Machines for Home Use
  • FULL BODY FITNESS: Engage your arms, legs, and core, and increase cardiovascular health. Our row machine has a wide cushioned seat and handlebar, anti-slip pedals, and sliding rail extension for a safe workout. Recommended user height: 4’9” - 6’6”.
  • REAL CALCULATIONS: Our rower machine for home has Bluetooth connectivity and access to the gamefit app for virtual racing. Enjoy on the water workouts, race against others, and track your speed, RPM, watts, calories burned, cadence, and mileage.
  • ULTRA QUIET: This compact row machine has a nylon rowing belt and ball-bearing rollers for smooth strokes, a 250-pound capacity, sliding rail extension, and 14-level dual magnetic tension resistance for an easy or more challenging workout.
  • PERSONALIZED WORKOUTS: Compatible with the MyCloudFitness App, available on IOS, Android, Apple Health, and Google Fit. Access hundreds of on-demand classes in cycling, rowing, and more. Enjoy custom programs based on your schedule and fitness level.

Fitness Reality 1000 Plus is one of our favorite cheap rowing machines for its outdoor feel and additional functionalities at a great price. The machine, as the name suggests, is designed for reality. Users are therefore assured of real outdoor fitness experiences at the comfort of their homes. It comes with 14 levels of magnetic resistance and hence smooth and quiet multilevel workouts.

Fitness Reality 1000 Plus also comes with a 3.5’’ LCD that enables users to track distance, time, total count, calories burned, strokes/min, and scan. The machine is designed for utmost comfort, with a large and cushioned seat for maximum user convenience. Its footrests are wide and have a thick Velcro band that provides maximum grip even for large feet. 

The length of the beam makes it possible for individuals up to 6’6’’ in height to use this cheap rowing machine. Fitness Reality 1000 Plus is designed to give users a full-body, low-impact workout and comes with Bluetooth connectivity. Users can therefore connect the machine to their gadgets and track their progress via the smartphone. It also comes with a free MyCloudFitness app available in iOS and Android. The device is also fitted with transportation wheels, a smartphone holder, and a limited warranty for one year.

Pros
  • Smooth and quiet resistance
  • 14 levels of magnetic resistance
  • Bluetooth-enabled
  • Offers full-body workouts
  • Affordable
Cons
  • The resistance levels are rather very light

 

  1. XTERRA Fitness ERG200

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XTERRA Fitness ERG200 Folding Magnetic Resistance Rower
  • Compact frame design folds up for easy storage or transport when not in use
  • Durable dual extruded aluminum seat slide rails mounted to a steel frame
  • Large adjustable 3.7” LCD monitor clearly displays elapsed time, stroke count, calories, total count, and scan
  • 8 levels of magnetic resistance are accessed through a dial resistance knob

XTERRA Fitness ER200 is hailed as the best cheap rowing machine for its cutting edge design for functionality, user convenience, and comfort. The machine comes with amazing features for entry-level home fitness enthusiasts at an affordable price. It combines steel and aluminum elements in its construction and hence strong and durable.

This rowing machine is foldable and compact. It is, therefore, fit for individuals with space limitations. It is fitted with a large 7’’ LCD monitor that displays time, stroke, calories, total count, and scan. Users can, therefore set their fitness goals and easily track their progress while working out.

The machine comes with four preset programs, enabling users to choose from various workout options. The pedals and monitor angles are adjustable for improved comfort. The Velcro straps hold the feet onto the position and hence cushioning users from sliding. The rower comes with 8 levels of smooth magnetic resistance. It is noiseless and foldable and great rowing equipment for beginners.

Pros
  • Easy to assemble
  • Foldable design
  • 8 levels of smooth magnetic resistance
  • Quiet workout sessions
  • Transportation wheels for portability
  • Affordable
  • Designed for ultimate comfort and convenience
Cons
  • It is only suitable for beginners
  • Lacks a gadget holder and backlight on the meter unit

 

  1. Merax Magnetic Exercise Rower

Merax Magnetic Rowing Machine Foldable Exercise Rower 14-Level Adjustable Resistance for Cardio
  • 【Various Workout Equipment-Multiple Resistance 】Switch up the intensity of your rowing workout with the convenient adjustable resistance tension knob. With a simple twist, you can increase or decrease resistance so your rower workout can remain challenging and effective throughout your rowing fitness journey.
  • 【 Extra Padding & Rotary Design-Fully Padded Seat&Multi-angle Rotary Footplates 】A sliding, extra padded and upholstered seat to support your bottom and back, ensure proper blood flow in the glutes for prolonged and vigorous rowing workouts. Large strapping footplates that are suitable for users of different sizes provide optimal comfort and support on this indoor rowing machine.
  • 【Track Your Workout-Large LCD Display 】With convenient LCD monitor that displays your Time, Count, Calories, Total Count, you will be able to track your progress and modify your current routine appropriately and keep you further motivated and aim for improvement.
  • 【Comfortable and Silence-15 Degree Angled Seat Rail& Built-in Megnetic Flywheel】The 15 degree angled seat rail makes your seat return smooth and efficient so that you can get the most out of your rowing session. Built-in megnetic flywheel minimizes noise while maximizing a smooth feel during exercise process on this air rowing machine.

Merax Magnetic Exercise Rower has a myriad of outstanding entry-level features. The machine comes with 8 levels of smooth magnetic resistance that enable users to adjust the machine to meet their fitness goals. It has a large and easily readable LCD console through which users can track their workout progress.

The machine has a smooth and quiet rowing stroke that enables users to concentrate on other things while working out. Merax Magnetic Exercise Rower comes with built-in wheels for portability. The seat is padded and contoured for user comfort. It has large and pivoted pedals that provide users’ feet with the much-needed grip and safety.

The machine is designed for the ultimate exercise experience for entry-level users. It is adjustable and comes with a 15-degree tilt angle that increases resistance and allows for smoother operation. The machine is also foldable and, therefore, does not consume much storage space.

Pros
  • Eight levels of smooth magnetic resistance
  • Padded and contoured seat for user comfort
  • Built-in flywheel and magnetic resistance ensure quiet operations
  • Portable
Cons
  • The meter lacks an LED backlight
  • Relatively short warranty, i.e., 180 days on parts

 

  1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515

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Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine Rower with 8-Level Resistance, Extended Slide Rail & Digital LCD Display - SF-RW5515
  • 【Legacy Equipment】 Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine, trusted by over a million satisfied customers with 12,000+ 5-star reviews. Purchase with confidence, knowing its quality has been time-tested and acclaimed
  • 【Total Body Workout】 Full-body Workout with Extended Slide Rails. Engage & strengthen legs, glutes, core, back, arms & shoulders. Rowing activates multiple muscles, promoting balanced development & strength. Unlock your potential
  • 【Ergonomic Comfort】 Experience unmatched comfort with our Rowing Machine. The cushioned seat provides support and coziness for longer rows. Stay focused on your goals, free from strain and distractions. Discover exceptional comfort
  • 【Customizable Resistance】 Personalize your rowing intensity with 8-level magnetic resistance. Easily adjust to your desired difficulty. Ideal for novices and experts, ensuring a customized and impactful workout experience

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 wows with its unique ability to offer users with intense yet enjoyable rowing. The magnetic tension system comes with 8 levels of adjustable tension. Users can therefore adjust the machine in line with their fitness goals. The operations are quiet and smooth and hence addressing user convenience.

The machine is designed with a heavy-duty steel mainframe. It can carry a maximum user weight of 250 lbs. It is sturdy and durable. Therefore, users do not have to worry about their ability to withstand the test of time. It is also fitted with a nonslip handlebar and a nonslip pedal with an adjustable strap for maximum user safety.

The LCD console is easily readable and displays time, count, calories, total count, and scan. Built-in transportation wheels help users move the machine from their favorite workout stations. The device is very stable, thanks to its sturdy design and floor stabilizers. It can accommodate users of all sizes and fitness levels. All for a relatively cheap buying price, this is one of the best inexpensive rowing machines. 

Pros
  • Small but easy to read LCD screen
  • Foldable and compact and therefore economical on space
  • Easy to assemble
  • Sturdy and durable
Cons
  • Lacks preset workout programs
  • Only three months’ warranty for frame and parts

 

  1. Efitment RW025

 

EFITMENT Magnetic Rowing Machine Rower for Home Exercise w/Digital Monitor, 250 LB Weight Capacity, 40 Inch Rail Length - RW025
  • NYLON CORD WITH MAGNETIC RESISTANCE: Magnetic resistance on the 8.82 pound flywheel provides a low maintenance, silent workout. Heavy-duty, tear-resistant nylon cord stays intact without meshing.
  • LOW PROFILE STEEL SLIDE RAIL: Rower fitness machine is low profile making your body seated closer to the ground, therefore eliminating risks of falling and injuring yourself. The sturdy steel rail moves 40 inches forward and backward giving your legs plenty of extension room.
  • EXCELLENT AEROBIC WORKOUT: Improve the function of your heart, lungs and circulation system by lowering the customized resistance levels and working at a greater pace. Grasp the handlebars and pull your arms toward your body while you extend your legs and the rhythmic motion workout will work with your body strengthen muscles while you build endurance. Even simple sessions are great for building up a fat burning routine!
  • COMPACT SPACE SAVER: Unlike most rowers, the RW025 is compact enough to fit apartments and dorm rooms. You can easily store away in a closet, upright when not in use!

Efitment RW025 appears on this list of the best inexpensive rowing machines for its cheap price and quality. This machine comes with a range of basic features, decent construction, and a sturdy design. The rower uses magnetic resistance, and therefore the flywheel operation is smooth and quiet. It has eight levels of resistance, thus accommodating users from various fitness levels.

Efitment RW025 is compact and can easily be uprightly stored in small spaces when not in use. Users can track their workout progress on a digital screen that displays scan, count, time, RPM, calories, and distance. The foot pedals are fitted with Velcro straps and pivoted to avoid slips and maintain balance when in use.

The rower is designed for average height users although taller users can use it as well but with much hassle. The rower is perfect for beginners, and at its low price, it is an excellent choice for less intensive use.

Pros
  • Compact and hence economical on space
  • Smooth and quiet operations
  • Easy assemble
  • Eight levels of smooth magnetic resistance
  • Durable
  • Built-in Transportation wheels and hence portable
Cons
  • Lacks a backlight on the meter
  • Not suitable for taller users

 

  1. ProGear 750 Rower

ProGear 750 Rower with Additional Multi Exercise Workout Capability, Black
  • 2 independent hydraulic cylinders for tension resistance. 3 hydraulic resistance levels can be independently adjusted on the left and right handle bars. 180 degree range of rowing motion
  • 3 adjustable rowing positions accommodate different user heights. Slide rail length/inseam: 37" - 43". Large 1.8" thick cushioned seat (12.3" x 9") and multi-exercise backrest (26.5" x 12.5")
  • 3 adjustable incline rowing angles. LCD display indicates scan, time, rep count, calories burned, and total rep count. Foam covered handle bars provides a comfortable grip while rowing
  • Large pivoting textured anti-slip foot pedals with adjustable straps keep your feet in place while exercising. User height range of 4'9" to 6'1". Chrome slide rail for smooth rowing

ProGear 750 Rower closes our list. This machine is applauded for versatility and multifunctional design. The rower allows for ten additional exercises, including arm, chest, and ab workouts. The three adjustable rowing positions enable users to customize the rower to achieve their fitness goals. 

The rower is designed for maximum comfort and user convenience. The seat is particularly large and designed to minimize pressure and, in so doing, ensuring user comfort. The handlebars are foam-covered for maximum grip and comfort of the hands while exercising. Users can also track their workout progress on an LCD display, which indicates time, rep count, calories burned, and total rep count.

This machine is designed to accommodate users of heights between 4’9’’ and 6’1’’ and comes in a slide rail length of between 37’’-43’’.  It gives full arm, shoulder, and chest exercises and can be folded for easy storage. ProGear 750 Rower comes with three adjustable hydraulic resistance levels. The machine is sturdy enough and fetches an affordable price for its level.

Pros
  • Ergonomic design and comes with three different incline levels
  • Customizable
  • Versatile
  • Can accommodate users of a wide range of heights
Cons
  • Assembling may be cumbersome for some users
  • It is very low

#best inexpensive rowing machines

Wrap Up

The rowers herein reviewed provide you with excellent performance at very affordable prices. They are designed for comfort and convenience and thus giving you the best workout experiences. They will, therefore, help you achieve your fitness goals with less hassle. The list is well researched and approved by top-notch experts in the fitness industry. You thus are assured of quality and comfortable workout with any rower in this list. The buyers’ guide is designed to help you make informed purchase decisions and cushion you from substandard and functionally ineffective rowers. We hope that you will find it useful in your purchase endeavors.

 

Last update on 2023-05-10 at 11:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API