Table of Contents
Rowing machines are essentials for your home gym. These machines provide you with quality low-impact workouts at the comfort of your home, which is all that matters. Inexpensive rowing machines particularly put into consideration the aspects of finances and space. They are small and compact, providing you with the ease of storage, among other fitness benefits. In this extensive review, we take you through the top 8 best inexpensive rowing machines available in the market.
Rowing machines are your ultimate muscle workout equipment. According to fitness experts, this equipment uses up to 86% of your muscles. The machines give you a total body workout experience, strengthening and at the same releasing the pressure on your joints. They are beginner-friendly and provide a range of other fitness benefits as well.
Should you be considering getting a rowing machine for your home gym, this article is your guide. We explore the top 8 best inexpensive rowing machines available in the market, giving you well-researched options that best fit your needs.
Advantages of The Best Inexpensive Rowing Machines
Issues of finance primarily drive purchase decisions. You can only actively pursue something you can afford. Rowing machines, for their numerous health benefits, are worth spending on. You, however, need to ensure that your purchase is reasonable in terms of the costs and benefits accruable. You need an inexpensive rowing machine that gives the most fitness benefits at the least possible costs.
Home workouts are generally for your convenience. They help you cut down on commercial gym costs and at the same time enabling you to exercise without the constraints of time. With an inexpensive rowing machine at home, you will enjoy aerobic exercises and weight loss with less financial strain. Upper and lower body workouts will be more enjoyable knowing your spending on the machine was reasonable.
An inexpensive rowing machine will enable you to stock your home gym with other machines as it does not dig deeper into your pocket. These machines can provide you with the same fitness benefits you can accrue from the other expensive rowing machines. Most are foldable and compact. They can, therefore, address your concerns of space and ease of storage better.
Inexpensive rowing machines are built for individuals who would like to build muscles, burn calories, and engage in full-body workouts without spending much. This review provides you with the best affordable rowing machines in the market, with which you can accrue these benefits at the comfort of your budget limit.
Best Inexpensive Rowing Machines Buyers’ Guide
Deciding which rowing machine to buy can be challenging. Buyers should ideally understand what to look for in these machines. This helps to direct you to the best device within the limits of your budget. Knowledge of the factors to consider in your quest for a rowing machine is therefore helpful in helping you get the best in the market. Some of these factors include:
-
Budget
If you are not decided on the amount you would like to spend on your rowing machine, you may end up checking out all machines in the market. To avoid wasting your time and energy, be sure about the amount you would like to spend and only pay attention to those that fall within the precincts. You should balance quality and price to avoid the risk of low-quality machines that may undermine your workout.
-
Space
The space you have should determine which type of rowing machine to settle on. Foldable rowing machines are particularly economical on space and hence do not consume much storage space. A small and compact machine is ideal for home gyms as they are not bulky. It is therefore advisable to opt for a small, compact and foldable machine to address the limitations of workout and storage space. However, the size of the rowing machine should be primarily determined by the size of the user.
-
Purpose
Whereas the ultimate goal of buying a rowing machine is to exercise, the intensity of exercising may be varied depending on whether it is for residential or commercial use. Generally, commercial use rowing machines are built to withstand extreme workout conditions. They are, therefore, suitable for intense workouts and can be used by many users without damage. If you are a professional athlete or going to use the machine with your family, a commercial rowing machine suits you. They are sturdy and solid. If you will use the machine alone, a residential use machine is good enough.
-
Resistance
Rowing machines are designed with different resistance types, i.e., air, hydraulic-piston, magnetic, and water. As a buyer, you should understand each of these resistance mechanisms’ merits and demerits and make your decisions accordingly.
Top 8 Best Rowing Machines Under $300
-
Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Rowing Machine
- 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 Rowing Machine is the first in our list of the best inexpensive rowing machines for affordability and cutting-edge smart technology. The machine is Bluetooth-enabled and enables users to connect with My Cloud Fitness App and therefore track their progress through their cellphones. Workout progress can also be tracked via the 3.5” LCD screen.
The LCD shows distance rowed, time, strokes, and calories. The machine requires less than an hour to assemble and comes with an easy-to-read manual for easy installation. It comes with a comfortable rowing position, with a satisfactory seat height ranges. It is suitable for short and tall individuals and therefore usable by a majority. The machine’s magnetic resistance makes it smooth and quiet.
The machine allows users to undertake a range of additional exercises. You can use it for bicep curls and triceps extensions, among other fitness options. This inexpensive rowing machine is the cheapest in the market and, therefore, a good choice for those with financial limitations.
Pros
- Users can use the machine to undertake a range of exercises
- It is easy to assemble as the manual is easy to understand
- Very affordable
- It has a long beam and hence accommodating tall rowers
- It is smooth and quiet during use
Cons
- The LCD monitor is too ordinary
- Lacks pre-set programs
- Some users find assembly complicated and time-consuming.
2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine
- 【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
The SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is one of the best inexpensive rowing machines for its extensive accommodation of users and competitive prices. The device is designed to fit the needs of both short and tall individuals, with its pedals large enough to accommodate nearly every user. It has eight levels of resistance, and users can adjust whichever challenge suits them. It is, therefore, suitable for beginners and established rowers as well.
The magnetic resistance means that the machine is smooth and quiet during operation. It is foldable and therefore consumes very little space in storage. The LCD console enables users to keep track of time, calories burned, and distance rowed. The nonslip, strapped foot pedals ensure that you are safe while rowing and enhances focus on the process of exercising. The handlebars are nonslip as well and soft to enhance safety and comfort.
SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is also fitted with transportation wheels for portability. Therefore, you can easily change the setting of the machine on demand by simply rolling it on the floor. The machine also comes with a cushioned seat for comfort and floor stabilizers for stability.
Pros
- The machine offers a smooth and quiet workout
- It is designed for ultimate comfort and workout convenience
- It is strong and durable
- Sturdy and stable
- Affordable
Cons
- The warranty period is too short
- The console is very basic.
3. Stamina Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine
- 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 Body Trac Glider 1050 Rowing machine is an inexpensive rowing machine that is low priced and accompanying quality. Most rowing machines in its class are unattractive for their compromise on the aspects of comfort and quality. It carves a niche in the market with outstanding features for convenience. The seat is cushioned, and the handgrips padded for comfort.
This machine is suitable for users who would like to undertake short workouts. While it offers users with an outstanding workout experience, long exercises may undermine the working of some parts. It has adjustable shock resistance and helps you work your muscles with utmost precision. The electronic monitor enables users to track their progress. It displays speed, distance covered, time, stroke rate, and calories burned.
The rower comes with foldable arms, making it very suitable for individuals with storage space limitations. It is reliable and very affordable, fetching a price just below the $150 mark. It comes with a one-year warranty for the frame and 90-days parts warranty.
Pros
- It is very affordable
- It is very compact and has foldable arms which make it easier to store
- It is stable
Cons
- The warranty duration is very short
4.XTERRA Fitness ERG200 Folding Magnetic Resistance Rower
ERG200 Folding Magnetic Resistance Machine makes is another amazing inexpensive rowing machine with a sturdy design, price sensitivity, and outstanding functionality. The device comes with a sliding rail, which provides an incredibly smooth and stable motion. ERG200 is compact, foldable, and can fit in small spaces. It is, therefore, not only economical on finances but also space.
The machine comes with eight levels of smooth magnetic resistance. Users can, therefore, adjust their exercises according to their fitness levels and goals. It is most appropriate for both beginners and those who have attained higher levels of fitness. The workout sessions are smooth and without noise. The 3.7’’ LCD Monitor is large enough and easily readable. It displays time, stroke count, calories, total count, and scan.
The machine’s flywheel is also heavy enough to simulate real rowing. The machine is fitted with an enormous comfort molded seat and padded handle for comfort. It has transportation wheels for ease of movement. Users can control their rowing, and the rows are impact-free.
Pros
- Consumes little storage space
- Friction-free resistance and hence smooth and quiet workout
- Fitted with transportation wheels for ease of movement
- Affordable
Cons
- The resistance may be a bit low for experienced users
- Users cannot track distance rowed
5. ShareVgo SRM1000 Smart 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
ShareVgo SRM1000 Smart Rower is one most popular best inexpensive rowing machines for its cutting-edge technology and great functionality. The device comes with a Bluetooth LCD monitor that displays time, distance, count, and total count. As such, you can connect this machine with a smartphone app and track your progress from the phone. The smart power technology stands out for many of the users of this machine. SRM1000 is designed for a full-body workout and enables the users to compare their workout progress with other users.
The machine is easy to assemble and is foldable. As such, it is economical on space and can be used by those with space limitations. The resistance is frictionless and, therefore, smooth and noiseless. The 8-level magnetic resistance gives users of various levels of fitness to work out on the equipment. It features sturdy construction, which makes it strong and durable.
The machine is relatively easy to set up, coming with steps necessary for installation. It is designed to spice up fitness sessions, efficiently helping your burn calories and build muscles. The machine is fitted with a device holder as well for user convenience. It, therefore, one of the best affordable rowing devices available in the market.
Pros
- Can be used by individuals at various levels of fitness
- It is sturdy and relatively stable
- It is Bluetooth-enabled and therefore can be connected to other gadgets
- Has a device holder
Cons
- Slightly expensive compared to the others in its category, fetching a little over the $300 price cap
- Lacks a written manual for installation
6. MaxKare Magnetic Rowing Machine
No products found.
MaxKare Magnetic Rowing Machine is a surefire best inexpensive rowing machine because of its cardio fitness benefits for non-elite rowers and price. It has a magnetic resistance and belt drive system that is noiseless and smooth and, therefore, efficient in helping elite rowers meet their fitness goals. It comes with a whopping 16 levels of magnetic resistance that suit individuals with varying fitness goals and levels.
This machine is fitted with a large non-backlit LCD that enables users to track their count, calories burned, and time. The seat is grippy padded for comfort. The handlebars are also designed for user comfort while enhancing grip and safety. It is foldable and therefore, can fit in tiny spaces.
The rowing machine is fitted with footplates with adjustable straps to ensure that your feet stay on the plates and keep you safe. The straps are adjustable and, therefore, suitable for individuals of different foot sizes. Transportation wheels make the movement of the machine very easy.
Pros
- Combines affordability and quality
- Smooth and quiet workout because of the belt and magnetic resistance system
- Foldable and therefore economical on space
- Relatively comfortable
Cons
- The LCD Display is non-backlit
- It is only suitable for elite users
7.Merax Magnetic Exercise Rower Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine (BK)
- 【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 Rowing Machine is an inexpensive rowing machine particularly designed for beginners and with high quality and comfort features. It has eight levels of smooth magnetic resistance, and therefore, users can switch to their most preferred fitness challenges. The highest level of resistance does not, however, provide enough challenge for professional athletes.
The seat is designed to slide and is upholstered and extra padded to give users maximum back and bottom support. It is inclined at an angle of 15 degrees and provides you with the much-needed efficiency in your workout.
The rowing machine has a large, easily readable LCD. Users can, therefore, track time, count, calories burned, and total count. It is foldable and, therefore, a good option for users with the limitations of space. The pedals are large and strapped. They are intric to provide maximum grip and hence safety during workouts. It also comes with pivotal footrests and special design handlebars for maximum user comfort. Transportation wheels make it considerably easier to move the machine from place to place.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Aesthetically appealing design
- Foldable and hence economical on space
- Smooth and quiet workouts
- Ergonomic and padded seats for maximum comfort
Cons
- Users cannot track their pulses
- The LCD is not backlit
- It is not suitable for an intensive workout, especially by professional athletes.
8.Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Folding Magnetic Rowing Machine
- ERGONOMIC FOOT PEDALS: Engage your quads as you propel your legs back and forth on the pivoting foot pedals with adjustable straps. Slip-resistant handlebar ensures secure grasp.
- OVERSIZED SEATING: Large padded seating smoothly glides along with the 43 slide rail inseam. The heavy-duty frame holds 285 LBS. While stabilizers promote stability.
- MAGNETIC TENSION: 16 Levels of tension ensure a versatile and challenging workout with virtually no maintenance.
- FOLDABLE ROWER: Convenient folding rower machine folds upright. Great for smaller in home gyms.
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine closes our list of the best inexpensive rowing machines for its ability to offer low-impact full-body workouts. The machine’s foot pedals are ergonomic and large to accommodate a wide range of users. They are intricately designed to provide maximum grip and therefore protect your foot from slippage during a workout.
Unlike most machines in this list, this one is endowed with 16 levels of magnetic resistance and therefore enabling users to set their workout challenges according to their fitness levels and preferred goals. The machine is fitted with a bottle and device holder for the convenience of users as well. The seat is large and comfortable, spicing up the beneficial features of this rowing machine.
Users can track their workout progress on an LCD screen. The screen displays time, count, calories burned, total count, and scan. The handlebars are also slip-resistant for maximum grip and comfort during workouts. Stabilizers and transportation wheels create balance and enable users to move the machine to points of convenience at will.
Pros
- Affordable
- Has transportation wheels and can therefore portable
- Designed for user comfort and convenience
- Sturdy and durable
- Foldable and hence economical on space
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- The LCD does not show distance
- The Computer system is very basic.
Wrap Up
Generally, these rowing machines are great options for your ultimate home workout. They are sturdy enough and provide you with the much-needed comfort to enhance your workout experiences and help you achieve your fitness goals. We hope that you will find this review of the top 8 best inexpensive rowing machines useful. We believe it will help you make an informed purchase decision in your quest to become healthy and fit.
Last update on 2023-05-10 at 11:18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API