Top 10 Best Rowing Machines Under $300 (Reviews and Buyer’s Guide 2021)

Are you looking to maximize indoor workouts from home? You just clicked the right link; rowing machines are the real deal. They offer you a full-body workout that includes cardio, burns calories, builds muscle, tones the body, and improves both strength and stamina. Most gym-quality rowing machines can cost upwards of $1000. However, you can get a decent medium to low-range rowing machine for under $300. The best rowing machine under $300 is an excellent deal if you are looking for medium-range features and capacities. 

There are dozens of entry-level rowing machines under $300 on Amazon. However, only a handful have commendable performance worth considering. Fortunately for you, we have done our research and listed the top 10 best rowing machines under $300 below. Their rating criteria are; build quality, user capacity, resistance type, comfort, and user reviews. Our handy buyers’ guide has details on the basics for buying rowing machines under $300.

Why Should I Buy the Best Rowing Machine Under $300?

Rowing machines mimic the action of watercraft rowing, which works the legs, back, core, and arm muscles. Rowing machines offer a full-body workout as they work at least 85% of body muscles.

They work 65-75% of the legs and 25-35% of the upper body. Most exercise equipment either primarily offers cardio or build strength; a rowing machine does both.

Rowers encourage users to work out as they do not prolong delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Rowing promotes concentric muscle movement rather than eccentric muscle movement. In the former, muscle tension rises to meet resistance then remains stable as the muscle shortens. With eccentric muscle movement, the muscle lengthens as resistance becomes greater than the force it is producing.

While eccentric contractions work muscles harder with less energy than concentric contractions, they often overwork the muscles causing DOMS prolongation.

Rowers provide a low-impact workout compared to treadmills. They are perfect workout devices for people with joint problems, senior citizens, and persons recovering from injury.

If you are on a weight-loss mission, rowers are the way to go. You can burn up to 600calories per hour on a rower. Note, however, the workout intensity and resistance level influence the number of calories burned.

Buyers’ Guide-What to Consider When Shopping For the Best Rowing Machine Under $300

Shopping for rowing machines on a budget can be limiting and calls for some compromises. It is important to understand a rowing machine’s general functional system to know what you can compromise on. If you are really unsure of what you are looking for, you could easily end up with a worthless junk piece. Our insightful buyers’ guide below spells out the main features you should consider when shopping for the best rowing machine under $300.

  1. Design

Typically, rowers can be up to eight feet long and two feet wide when fully extended. You need to consider whether you have the floor space to accommodate the rowing machine when in use. Thankfully, most rowing machines under $300 are foldable. Consider foldable models for easy storage.

  1. Resistance

There are four main types of resistance in rowing machines; water resistance, air resistance, magnetic resistance, and hydraulic resistance. Hydraulic resistance is common in high-end rowers. For our $300 budget, the hierarchy is air resistance (quite rare at $300) magnetic resistance, and hydraulic resistance.

The advantage of magnetic resistance is its silent operation, consistent movement, and the option to retain one resistance level throughout your workout. Also, consider models with at least eight levels of resistance.

  1. Rail Length

The rail length is vital for extremely tall people. Ample rail length allows you to fully extend your arms and legs for the full rowing effects. Models with at least 40” work for most users.

  1. Warranty

Consider models with reasonable warranty and return period. Also, consider models that come with a warranty on parts. In case the machine or its components fail, you will have some recourse.

  1. Structure/Weight Capacity

Most rowers are made from stainless steel. Consider high-gauge rowing machines that can handle your weight to prolong durability.

The Top 10 Best Rowing Machines Under $300

  1. Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Fitness Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine

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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.

Bluetooth connectivity on a rowing machine below $300 seems like a pipe dream. The Fitness Reality 1000 Plus rowing machine just crushed that notion.

Thanks to Bluetooth connectivity, this rowing machine can be connected to the MyCloudFitness app. The app keeps you motivated through convenient fitness tracking. You can use it to set up to three workout goals and take your workout to the next level. The rower’s large LCD console also displays more than the basic tracking metrics on other rowing machines under $300.

Speaking of the next level, the rower features a substantial 14 levels of resistance, allowing you to intensify your workout options. You can also diversify your exercise options as the rower’s front foot stabilizers are designed to accommodate curls, raises, shrugs, standing shoulder presses, and more.

Now you know why the Fitness Reality 1000 Plus is our best rowing machine under $300.

Pros
  • Inseam length can accommodate users from 4’9” to 6’6”
  • Sturdy construction with a minimal footprint
  • Adjustable rear floor stabilizer prevents rocking
  • Compatible with both Apple and Android devices
  • Free 30-day MyFitnessApp premium subscription
  • Dead-silent operation
  • Easy assembly
  • The display console shows the distance covered besides other metrics
Cons
  • A few users had issues with Bluetooth connectivity

 

  1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine Rower

 

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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

Thousands of glowing online reviews suggest that the SF-RW5515 rowing machine is the ultimate home-gym machine. The rower offers all the fundamentals an entry-level machine should have.

The rowing machine features an outstanding 48-inch slide rail, which is more than other models within its price range offer. Even the tallest members of your household can comfortably work out on this rower.

Speaking of working out, the rower features the standard eight levels of resistance, allowing you to intensify your workout and crush your fitness goals. Its smooth and quiet magnetic tension operation creates a tranquil environment for working out. A conveniently-placed LCD console helps you monitor your progress by displaying standard fitness metrics.

The rower’s comfort and safety features include a fully padded seat, foam-padded handlebars, non-slip pedals, and floor stabilizers. For beginners looking for a simple yet effective home workout equipment, this rower checks all the boxes.

Pros
  • Foldable design for easy storage and tight spaces
  • Straightforward assembly
  • Commendable customer service
  • Comfortable and safe
  • Sturdy build with a weight capacity of 250lbs
Cons
  • Short warranty

 

  1. MaxKare Magnetic Rowing Machine Foldable Exercise Rower

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The MaxKare rowing machine has a bit more going for it than its peers within the under $300 budget range.

It features 16 levels of magnetic resistance, twice the standard eight levels of resistance. According to users, 16 is not just a number; you can feel the gradual difference in tension levels as you increase the resistance.

At level seven, you will have broken a significant amount of sweat. But don’t take our word for it, you can view the calories burned and more standard metrics on the rower’s LCD monitor.

The rower is built with your comfort and safety in mind. It features a relatively wide, well-padded seat, non-slip handlebars, and pedals. The bottle holder and room for putting a mobile device are welcome additions.

If you are a thrifty fitness buyer looking to keep fit at home, this rowing machine is your best purchase yet.

Pros
  • Smooth and quiet operation; ideal for watching TV as you work out
  • Generous inseam length ideal for super tall users
  • Minimal footprint; takes up limited floor space
  • Extremely sturdy
  • Easy assembly
  • Great customer service
Cons
  • Displayed metrics are too basic

 

  1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 12 Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine

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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.

If you are just beginning your fitness journey or have stiff muscles, you just found your must-have home-gym staple. The SF-RW1205 rowing machine may not be for training Olympians, but for someone seeking to get fit at home, it fits the bill (pun intended).

The rowing machine features 12 resistance levels, substantially more than on standard entry-level rowers. The resistance levels allow for a wide range of workout intensities. And no, you will not max out the intensity levels quickly, so you can keep challenging yourself for a significant period to come. The easy-to-read LCD monitor should also keep you motivated as you track your progress in real-time.

Some level of comfort is important for fitness machines. The rower features a cushioned seat, padded non-slip handlebars, and adjustable pedal straps to ensure your comfort. Non-slip features on the pedals and handlebars ensure your safety while you exercise.

Pros
  • Easy assembly
  • Silent operation
  • Sturdy and stable construction
  • Ideal for tight spaces
Cons
  • The hydraulic resistance pump heats up quickly

 

  1. ECHANFIT Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine for Home Use

 

ECHANFIT Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine for Home Use Foldable w/16 Level of Quiet Magnetic Resistance with LCD Monitor and Adjustable Console Angle for Cardio Training (CR49)
  • [From Brand ECHANFIT] Enabling you to enjoy a better workout journey through professional indoor cardio training machines is what we do. We have redefined the fitness experience and wholeheartedly served for over 11 years. We offer you a one year for replacement parts and answer in less than 12 business hours.
  • [60% Space-saving Design] This folding rowing machine can be placed in any corner of your home without taking up a lot of space. Storage when folded only needs a 4.3 ft² footprint.
  • [Quiet and Smooth Rower] Magnetic resistance system combines with improved slide rail which ensures silent and smooth exercise workout action. No worry about being complained about by neighbours.
  • [Full-Body Muscle Workout] The rowing machine is unique in its ability to activate 92% of your body's muscles. To build for reaching your exercise goals.

The ECHANTIF rowing machine may not be gym-quality. But, if you need something to strengthen your core muscles and keep your heart rate up, it will more than suffice.

The rower features 16 levels of resistance levels ranging from very light to extremely rigorous workout options. A conveniently-placed tension knob allows you to switch workout intensity to suit your preference. The different workout intensity options will offer you excellent cardio and build your muscles and strength. According to user reviews, they are yet to hit level 16.

ourThe rowing machine’s belt drive system is smooth and quiet; your household’s lightest sleep will sleep through your workout. You can also watch some TV as you exercise.

The rower is also built to last. It features a high-strength steel frame with a powder-coated finish. It also features a long, extra-strong rowing cord with a reinforced handle.

Pros
  • Foldable design for easy storage
  • Contoured seat with lock for comfort and stability while rowing
  • LCD monitor displays six fitness metrics; Time, RPM, distance, scan, calories, and count
  • Clear assembly instructions make assembly a breeze
  • Stable hence does not shift while rowing
  • Responsive customer service
  • Accommodates different body frames
Cons
  • Not gym quality

 

  1. STAMINA 35-1215 Orbital Rowing machine with Free Motion Arms

Stamina 35-1215 Orbital Rowing Machine with Free Motion Arms - Smart Workout App, No Subscription Required
  • SIMULATE REAL-WORLD ROWING: The Stamina 1215 provides the calorie-burning, strength-enhancing, heart health-boosting workout you desire in the comfort of home. The unique free motion rowing arms are designed to simulate the feel of rowing on an actual body of water.
  • OTHER PERFORMANCE FEATURES: Turn the tension dial to set your resistance level on the smooth, quiet hydraulic-powered system. Keep track of your workout metrics on the large, easy-to-read LCD monitor, including time, distance, speed, calories burned and stroke count.
  • SMART FITNESS APP INCLUDED W/ PURCHASE: This product is fully supported by müüv, the all-in-one workout app that offers personalized training, a follow-along assembly video, and custom workouts tailored to your fitness goals using the equipment you own. No subscription required.
  • BUILT FOR COMFORT: The 1215 Rower includes a cushioned & comfortable seat, padded handlebars and pivoting foot plates with adjustable straps.

We love the STAMINA 13-1215 rowing machine for the versatile workout positions it can accommodate. It is our best rowing machine under $300 based on adjustability.

The rowing machine features free motion arms that allow you to vary your arm position as you stroke. The free motion arms enable the user to work almost all upper-body muscles. The motion is quite effective for working the arms, back, shoulders, and abs.

The rower also features an adjustable beam incline, which is great for beginners. If you are not yet to the rowing posture, you can incline the beam for some support until your body adapts.

The rowing machine’s deluxe ball-bearing system and hydraulic resistance ensure smooth and quiet operation.

You can track your fitness progress on the rowing machine’s single button monitor in real-time. It displays your time, speed, distance, row count, calories burned, and miles rowed.

Pros
  • Strong tubular 2” steel frame for durability
  • Adjustable features for people of varying fitness levels
  • Straightforward assembly
  • Padded seat and pivoting footplates for added comfort
  • 5-year warranty on frame
  • 30-day warranty on parts
Cons
  • No locking mechanism for the seat

 

  1. Stamina Rower

 

Stamina ATS Air Rower Machine with Smart Workout App - Foldable Rowing Machine with Dynamic Air Resistance for Home Gym Fitness - Up to 250 lbs Weight Capacity
  • EFFECTIVE, PROVEN RESULTS: Provides a nearly unsurpassed aerobic workout without the relentless pounding to your joints. Quickly improve your fitness while drastically reducing injury risks. This low impact, full body workout targets all major muscle groups and pushes your heart rate to levels that increase your metabolism so you can burn calories and fat more efficiently. Supports all body types and frequent use. Feel secure and safe while rowing your way to a stronger, tighter, healthier body.
  • DYNAMIC AIR RESISTANCE: One of the main benefits of air resistance is that it always matches your pace. Row harder if you desire more resistance and ease off if you want less. The air transfer system constantly adjusts to match your rowing speed. Designed for rigorous use, The Stamina 1403 provides an efficient, smooth rowing stroke and the intensity of your workout is up to you.
  • LCD WORKOUT MONITOR: During your routine, track speed, distance, time and calories burned and adjust accordingly with the large, easy-to-read LCD display.
  • EASY ASSEMBLY AND STORAGE: Once assembled the rower is 77” long x 18.75” wide x 22” tall. Folded dimensions are 48” x 18.75” x 28”. The Stamina 1403 Air Rower folds to a compact size with built-in wheels for easy storage. Assembled weight: 54 lbs. Weight Capacity: 250 lbs.

The sedentary lifestyle is not the best for overall health; understandably, though, it is often not a choice. If you spend your days tucked away behind a desk, it is prudent to grab a minute and just shake up a few muscles. If you are merely looking for the simplest, most basic fitness equipment just to keep your heart beating right, this is it.

The gateway rowing machine features five levels of resistance. If you put in a few miles of stroking every other day, you should get enough upper and lower body workout to keep your BMI in check.

It also has a multi-function LCD monitor that, apart from measuring your distance, time, calories burned, and strokes per minute, it also has a scan function. You can conveniently monitor your progress to stay motivated.

Comfort features like pivoting footpads and an upholstered seat make rowing much more desirable for beginners.

Pros
  • Minimal footprint
  • Sturdy and stable steel frame
  • Easy assembly
  • Ideal for persons recovering from injury
Cons
  • Not ideal for fitness enthusiasts

 

  1. Stamina Body Track 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.

At $300, you are unlikely to find a rowing machine with simulation features. While simulating rowing along the Thames is out of reach, some rowing machines mimic the water’s rowing motion better than others do.

The stamina Glider 1050 is one such machine. It features unique, full-range-of-motion arms that offer an uncanny feeling to real watercraft rowing. That is why it is our best rowing machine under $300 for simulation.

The full-range-of-motion arms intensely work the group muscles in the arms, legs, back, abs, and glutes. If you are up for more challenging workouts, you can utilize the gas shock resistance for more intensity. To keep you motivated, an easy-to-read multi-function LCD monitor tracks your progress.

The Glider 1050 features a smooth ball-bearing roller system that enhances your comfort. It also features adjustable hydraulic cylinder resistance for smooth rowing strokes.

Pros
  • Sturdy steel frame construction
  • Easy Assembly
  • Foldable arms for easy storage
  • Smooth operation
  • Great resistance
Cons
  • A few complaints about the footrest

 

  1. Merax Magnetic Exercise Rower Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine

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.

The Merax rowing machine faults the notion that effective has to be expensive. The rowing machine is simple, effective, and, most important, affordable. It has stellar reviews online, with hundreds of users recommending it for the home gym.

Merax rowing machine has eight resistance levels, allowing you to switch it up for an intensive and highly invigorating workout session. A conveniently-placed tension knob makes it much easier to adjust intensity. The tension knob resistance also has no hiccups as compared to hydraulic pistons, which tend to heat up towards higher levels of resistance.

The rower has a 15°angled seat rail that makes the seat glide smoothly along the frame. It also features a built-in flywheel, which minimizes noise and enhances smooth operation.

It may not have the bells, whistles, and other refined features that come with rowing machines with pricier tags, but it does get the work done.

Pros
  • Easy assembly thanks to clear assembly instructions
  • Sturdy, durable construction
  • Comfortable for use
  • Easy to change resistance
  • Minimal footprint
Cons
  • Not ideal for experienced rowers

 

  1. Harvil Hydraulic Rowing Machine Adjustable Resistance with Folding Arms

Harvil Hydraulic Rowing Machine with Folding Arms, Adjustable Resistance, LCD Monitor, and Large Footplates with Straps
  • DURABLE STEEL FRAME CONSTRUCTION - The steel frame can withstand a maximum user weight of 250 pounds. The row machine is sturdy and will last for years. Assembled Dimensions: 50 L x 36.22 W x 20 H Inches / Weight: 34 Pounds
  • ADJUSTABLE HYDRAULIC RESISTANCE WITH MANUAL CONTROL KNOB - Manually adjust the tension with a control knob so you can easily customize your workout to fit your needs. Use the unique arm bar angles to exercise your chest, shoulder, and arm muscles.
  • TRACK YOUR PROGRESS - Easy to read LCD monitor displays time, row count, and calories burned. The scan function scrolls through workout metrics every 6 seconds. This monitor works on 1 AA battery (battery not included).
  • ERGONOMIC DESIGN - A molded seat glides your every motion. Pivoting footplates with safety straps with 2 strap positions will secure any size feet. Row in comfort every time.

Rowing machines with full-range-motion arms offer optimum workout. That is why the Harvil rower is the best rowing machine under $300 that provides both cardio and body strengthening.

The rowing machine offers fantastic arm movement to keep your arm, back, abs, and shoulder muscles in top shape. Although it features hydraulic resistance, it has a manual control knob that allows you to switch the resistance as you please. There are eight levels of varying resistance with significant differences in intensity so that you won’t get bored anytime soon. You can view your performance metrics on an easy-to-read LCD console.

The rowing machine’s modeled seat glides through the frame for fluid rowing movement. The machine also operates silently, allowing you to watch TV or listen to music as you work out.

The Harvil rower may not be gym quality, but it is by no definition boring.

Pros
  • Full-range-motion arms mimic actual water rowing better than pulling a cord
  • Straightforward assembly
  • Foldable with a minimal footprint
  • Sturdy and solid; does not wobble when in use
  • Durable build
Cons
  • Foot pedals feel wonky

 

Parting Shot

Rowing machines are perfect for home use because they offer full-body, low-impact workout. While getting a rowing machine on a budget is limiting, it is not impossible. There are surprisingly good models available at under $300.

We have listed the top 10 best rowing machines under $300. They may not come with the bells, whistles, and tech-savvy features on top range rowers, but they are sufficient. They will get your heart beating right, your muscles stronger, and your body looking leaner in no time.

 

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