Top 10 Best Rowing Machines Under 500

Rowing machines are exceptional exercise machines that are outstanding in their practical and realistic rowing sensation as each stroke cycle closely mimics the dynamics of actual rowing. Magnetic, hydraulic, and water types of rowing machines all work to build muscles all over your frame. Most rowing machines feature sliding seats that are better mechanisms of getting a full-body workout with ease. To get the best rowing machine under 500, read through our reviews of the ten best and we hope that you’ll find something that befits you. We focus on their key features. Pros and cons.

Advantages of the Best Rowing Machine Under 500

Rowing machines are among your best bet fitness machines for weight loss, toning muscles, and boosting your cardiovascular endurance. This is why rowing machines are increasingly becoming popular in gyms.

Aerobic exercises are very good for the heart and general body metabolism and owing machines are highly effective aerobic exercisers as they will raise your heart rate and increase metabolism. The result will be immediate, weight loss, increased stamina, and stronger immunity. The body releases ‘feel-good’ hormones while you are exercising, elevating your mood, and preventing anxiety and depression.

It has been proven that rowing machines burn calories as high as 600 calories per hour of intense exercise. When compared t treadmills, exercise bikes, and ellipticals, the rate at which rowers burn calories is significantly higher. Together with changes in diet and persistence in training, a rowing machine shall be your fitness best-friend.

Beginners usually experience massive exhaustion when they use rowing machines for the first time. However, this should not be a discouraging attribute to you as you will reap from the massive benefits in the long term. You will build more energy and improve muscle and cardiovascular endurance. Rowing machines are touted to be the most effective exercise machines due to their ability to target the heart, circulatory system, and major muscle groups.

Buyers’ Guide- Four Things to Consider When Buying the Best Rowing Machine Under 500

Having looked at the ten best rowing machines under 500, here are some crucial factors to consider before making a purchase.

  1. Resistance levels

Depending on the type and design of the rowing machine you buy, the resistance levels are usually different. Water rowers have their resistance levels adjusted automatically. The more intense the rowing, the higher the resistance. Hydraulic and magnetic rowers, on the other hand, must have the resistance levels adjusted according to your desire. Some of the rowing machines have dials for you to adjust the resistance levels.

  1. Space

Consider the space within your gym in which you will keep the rowing machine. Rowing machines are usually longer than most other fitness machines. As such, take into account this critical consideration.

  1. Fitness Goals

Soul-search to find out if your fitness goals are consistent with what rowing machines offer. Maybe you need a treadmill, after all. Also, some rowers serve specific functions better than others. For example, rowing machines having preset workout programs are more useful for cardiovascular endurance, strength training, and weight loss.

  1. Monitors and Controls

Choose a rowing machine that has monitors showing exercise metrics like the heart rate, calories burnt, time, distance, and counts per minute.

The Top 10 Best Water Rowing Machines in 2020

  1. Tunturi R30 Rower

TUNTURI R30 Cardio Fit Series Rower, Black
  • MONITOR: Easy-to-read monitor that helps you quickly asses data such as speed, distance, time, heart rate, and calories burned
  • CUSTOMIZABLE WORKOUT: Choose from 8 resistance levels help you customize your workout make sure you're developing the muscle mass and endurance that you are targeting
  • ERGONOMIC COMFORT: Smooth monorail and adjustable, ergonomic seat ensure a smooth and comfortable workout so you can focus on your fitness
  • TABLET HOLDER: This rower features a handy tablet holder allows you to break up the monotony of indoor training with your favorite show, movie, or sports coverage.

The Tunturi R30 Rower puts all major muscle groups to work at minimal impact. With the T30, you can work specifically to build muscle mass and endurance. You will have more fruitful workouts with less worry when using this rower.

Those looking for an indoor fitness solution should consider the T30. The designers were thoughtful enough to build a space-conscious, simple, and highly-effective way to exercise indoors. Similarly, storage is made easy thanks to the foldable design and quick-release pins.

Choose from 8 resistance levels for you to have the right workout intensity without straining your body. Customizing your workout is a better way to build strength, endurance, and muscle mass. An easy-to-read LCD monitor can be adjusted and also has an inbuilt device holder to break the monotony of indoor training.

The R30 features comfortable footrests that are fitted with safety straps so that your feet are safely and firmly planted on the rower. Don’t let the small frame fool you. The R30 rower has been solidly constructed without being inconvenient in size.

The Tunturi T30 is a frontrunner in fitness. With the desire to improve your training results, safety, and fun, this is the best rowing machine under 500 in terms of ease of use.

Pros
  • Comes with a 2-year warranty
  • Small footprint that saves space
  • Durable
  • The workout is fully customizable
  • The monitor is easy to track
  • Comfortable ergonomic seat
Cons
  • The screen has been reported to fall backward
  • Trouble with the monitor has been reported multiple times on Amazon

 

  1. Merax Water Rowing Machine

Merax 2023 Water Rowing Machine Fitness Indoor Water Resistance 330 lbs Weight Capacity Row Machine Exercise Rower Home Gym Equipment with Digital Monitor for Home Use
  • 【Stronger Resistance Adjustment】Sleek and elegant in design with the dashing blue, Merax water rower is highly refined with solid steel construction for steady performance and durability, which supports up to 330 LBS. Unique inclined water tank ensures more powerful resistance compared to others in flat position. Get a more effective aerobic workout and your cardio health on the upswing.
  • 【Quiet & Smooth Rowing】Merax water rowing machine provides a soothing glide which mimics the dynamic rowing movements across the real water. You can enjoy the relaxing sound of water splashing inside the aqua blue water tank or stream your favorite show without turning the volume too high.
  • 【Multi-Feature Monitor】The large LCD monitor accurately displays your rowing intensity in duration, strokes, calories, distance, and heart rate. Quick start and stop options allow you to start rowing workouts in a single button push. The exciting part is you can challenge yourself under the competitive race mode and get on an intense rowing competition.
  • 【Customized Rowing Experience】Fill the water tank to desired water level resistances to adjust resistances with funnel and pumping siphon(included). 19” long ergonomic handle to maximize your rowing performance. 12.5” x 10” contoured seat molded for comfort during your long-time rowing workouts. 12” long footrest with fully adjustable Velcro strap, securely pivot with your feet during intense rowing.

Sleek and elegant design in dashing blue, the Merax Water Rower has equally strong steel construction for excellent performance and durability, which supports weights of 330lbs.

It also has an inclined water tank that provides a more powerful resistance compared to others in a horizontal position. The Merax water rowing machine gives a soothing glide reminiscent of real dynamic rowing movements in the water. You shall enjoy the satisfying sound of water splashing within the aqua blue water tank.

A multi-featured LCD monitor displays accurate results on rowing intensity, duration, strokes, calories, distance, and heart rate. Also, multiple quick start buttons initiate rowing workouts by a single button push. One other interesting thing is that the competitive race mode can help you challenge yourself into an intense rowing competition.

Pros
  • Durable construction
  • Comfortable seat
  • You can customize the rowing experience to your liking.
  • The seat is made for comfort during your long and vigorous workouts.
  • Its compact design is convenient for storage.
  • Long and comfortable footsteps with adjustable Velcro straps allow you to plant your feet firmly.
  • The LCD monitor is easy to read.
  • Smooth operation
Cons
  • A little bit noisy
  • Quite heavy

 

  1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5713 Water Rower

 

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Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian Surge 500 Water Rowing Machine - SF-RW5713 , Black
  • WATER PERFORMANCE: Instant resistance is available with the flywheel and 16 fan blades. The faster the fan blades spin the higher resistance and dynamic response caused by the harmonious interaction with the water, giving the user a unique experience.
  • DESIGN: Constructed with lightweight sturdy steel, for solid performance and durability. The 16 hydro-blades mimic the dynamic movements of competitive rowing along with sweat resistant handlebars.
  • ERGO EFFICIENT: Molded padded seat is designed to be comfortable and functional. High-profile seat design allows user to get on and off the seat without bending and straining your back.
  • FITNESS TECHNOLOGY: The R2 fitness meter is designed to accurately track all essential workout metrics, i.e. total time, 500 M time, SPM, total strokes, calories, hr., ambient temperature, and more

The SF-RW5713 will keep your workouts dynamic and challenging. It will help exercise the majority of your body’s muscular systems without straining the joints while boosting cardiovascular endurance.

This way, you shall burn a lot of calories within a very short time.

Featuring 16 fan blades that provide unlimited resistance, the user shall experience a dynamic response that is harmonious with its interaction with water in every stroke. The user will have a unique, almost surreal experience.

Its molded padded seat is designed with functionality and comfort in mind, while the high-density rubber wheels are perfect for transport and upright storage. Moreover, the SF-RW5713 has a fitness meter that tracks all essential workout metrics accurately.

Pros
  • Easy to store by placing it upright against the wall vertically
  • Offers unlimited resistance for excellent workouts
  • The seat is large enough for proper comfort
  • Gives a refreshing rowing experience to the user
Cons
  • Makes some noise, though it’s bearable
  • Problems with the foot pedals have been reported

 

  1. LifeSpan RW1000 Water Rower

LifeSpan RW1000 Indoor Rowing Machine
  • LOW-IMPACT FULL-BODY WORKOUT: The RW1000 indoor rower provides a dynamic, impact-free rowing exercise that will tone and strengthen your arms, legs, shoulders, and back without straining your joints.
  • FOLDABLE, COMPACT DESIGN FOR SMALL SPACES: The rowing machine can be folded upwards using a locking pin to reduce its footprint for limited spaces and includes built-in transport wheels for easy portability and convenient storage.
  • ADJUSTABLE MAGNETIC RESISTANCE: This magnetic indoor rower offers up to five (5) levels of adjustable resistance to deliver a physically demanding workout based on your needs.
  • POWERFUL YET QUIET: The eddy-current brake system provides an ultra-quiet, natural, smooth, and consistent movement that mimics the intensity of rowing through water while preventing brake wear and overheating the 16.5-pound flywheel.

The LifeSpan RW1000 Water Rower is a market-leading rowing machine that costs as little as 500 Dollars.

It has an easy-to-read console that has readouts for distance covered, time spent, calories burnt, and strokes per minute. This conveniently provides you with all the information you need for a successful workout. There is no need for an external power supply, making this rower energy-efficient and convenient.

The patented eddy current drive system gives a smooth and ultra-quiet resistance. The belt retrieval is slack free, even during vigorous workouts. There are five levels of resistance that can be adjusted by an easy-to-reach resistance knob. This rowing machine includes padded hand grips and swivels foot pedals with Velcro straps to provide extra comfort.

No tools are needed to fold this rower. The transport wheels located below the footpads facilitates easy transportation.

Pros
  • Comes with a reliable warranty
  • Its cost is reasonable enough, one of the best rowing machines under 500
  • Has a number of features for the user’s comfort
  • Occupies little space, hence can be used in rooms with limited space
  • Energy-efficient
Cons
  • The resistance five levels are the lowest in our list of the ten best rowing machines under 500
  • You cannot replace small parts. You have to buy an entire working system to make repairs and expensive prospect

 

  1. Stamina X Water Rower

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Stamina X Water Rowing Machine with Fitness Coaching App, No Subscription Required - Wireless Heart Rate Monitor Included - Rowing Machines for Home Use
  • ADJUSTABLE WATER RESISTANCE: Feels like rowing on the water; Enjoy a dynamic rowing stroke with infinite resistance levels; Row harder to up the intensity or ease off for less; Add or remove water to the tank to alter baseline resistance level
  • WIRELESS HEART RATE STRAP: This water rower machine has been upgraded with a high-end fitness monitor and chest strap heart rate sensor that syncs wirelessly with the monitor
  • MULTI-FUNCTION MONITOR: The LCD monitor on the row machine tracks your fitness goals; View calories burned, time, stroke count and distance during your workout; Attach the included wireless chest strap to view your heart rate in real time
  • FITNESS COACHING APP: This rower machine for home includes access to muuv, the app with customized training and a step-by-step assembly video; Follow along with our muuv trainers for personalized workouts, coaching and motivation; No subscription required

The Stamina X Water Rowing Machine is highly-rated for its effective strength training and cardiovascular exercises.

The smooth motion provided by this type of resistance provides you with a great full-body workout. Simply ease off, and the resistance will ease you.  The single thing that might hinder you is a little is your ability to row harder.

Track your fitness goals using the easy-to-read, high-definition LCD screen that displays calories burned, time, stroke count, and distance covered.

A wireless transmitter to your chest allows you to view your pulse. Once done with your workout, move the rower for storage using the transport wheels. The compact design means this rower occupies little space.

Pros
  • It comes in 3 different colors for you to choose from
  • The multi-functional monitor gives reliable measurements on your fitness progress
  • Very stable
  • With the device holder, your phone or tablet will be within your reach
  • Closely mimics real-world rowing
  • Saves a lot of space
Cons
  • The bolts may loosen after being used for a long time. Simply tighten them
  • Problems with the bar holding the foot have been reported, though this is rare

 

  1. Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower

Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower
  • Resistance: DMC System (Drum Magnetic Control)
  • Electronic tension control
  • Large PU molded saddle & Foldable and space saving.Polyurethane Molded Saddle
  • Beam: Anodized Aluminum Profile + rectangular tubing support.The maximum weight capacity for the Rower is 275lbs.

The Velocity Exercise CHR-2001 Rowing machine has a number of special features. Featuring Drum Magnetic Control and electronic tension control, you will be able to build strength and endurance because of the optimum friction they produce. The magnetic resistance ensures there are smooth operations. This way, you shall perfect your rowing skills.

The strong aluminum frame extends outwards to accommodate the ergonomically designed foam-padded seat that is easy on your lower back muscles. Additionally, the non-slip foot pedals give additional balance and ensure you adopt the best position while working out. Its versatile design also includes a monitor that lets you monitor parameters such as pulse rate, time taken, number of counts, calories burnt, and many more.

This rowing machine enables you to train well and to learn new methods based on the metrics it provides.

The Velocity CHR-2001 is one of the best rowing machines under 500 in the market.

Pros
  • Strong and durable aluminum construction
  • Comfortable to use
  • Smooth operation
  • Good for intense cardiovascular endurance training
  • The monitor gives accurate figures
Cons
  • You have to use a mat to protect the floor
  • Quite heavy
  • Not so stable

 

  1. Goplus Water Rowing Machine

Goplus Water Rowing Machine, with Heart Rate Sensor, Indoor Rower with Adjustable Resistance Water Wheel and LCD Monitor, Full Body Exercise for Home Use
  • Adjustable Water Resistance --- Based on the design of principle of impeller stoke, the resistance of the rowing machine can be adjusted by how much water is in the tank. With a simple operation, you can increase or decrease resistance, so your workout can remain challenging and effective throughout your fitness journey.
  • Large LCD Monitor --- The large LCD monitor tracks your count per min, time, count, calories, distance and scan. The convenient scan mode displays your progress to assist you in tracking all your fitness goals. With the water-resist chest belt, you also can know your heart rate readout when exercising. In addition, the rowing machine can connect with cell-phone and download app to get data.
  • Aluminium Alloy Slide Rail --- Constructed with heavy duty sturdy steel, the rower has solid performance and durability that supports up to 220lbs. It will stay durable with its aluminum alloy beam that won’t rust and provides a smooth and quiet rowing experience. This water rowing machine will serve you for a long time. It can be conveniently stored and easy move with the wheels after your workout exercises.
  • More Comfortable & Secure Experience --- This row machine features a PU seat on rollers that glide smoothly. Large adjustable textured pedals with adjustable safety straps fit a wide range of foot sizes and make your feet remain in place throughout your rowing routine. With a non-slip rowing handle for better grip. With a hand pump for filling and removing water from the tank.

The Goplus Water Rowing Machine has a resistance feature that relies on the principle of the impeller stoke. The machine’s resistance is dictated by how much water is in the tank. This way, your workout shall remain challenging and effective.

A large LCD monitor displays the counts per minute, time, calories burnt, and distance covered. This is accompanied by a convenient scan mode that tracks your fitness goals in finer details. It also features a water-resistant chest belt that gives accurate readings of your heart rate.

The rower’s solid performance and durability come from the strong steel construction that won’t rust. Also, the rower has rollers that glide smoothly for easy transportation.

Pros
  • The textured pedals are large enough to fit most users
  • Easy to transport
  • Features a unique water-resistant chest strap that measures your heart rate accurately
  • This water rowing machine will serve you for a long time
  • Accompanied by a reliable warranty
  • Gives a comfortable and secure experience
Cons
  • Occupies a rather large space
  • Assembly is complicated by an instruction manual that needs to be updated. However, you can figure your way through it

 

  1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5508

 

Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Rowing Machine Rower Ergometer with 10 Levels of Magnetic Resistance, Digital Monitor, 300 LB Weight Capacity - SF-RW5508
  • ADVANCED DIGITAL MONITOR: Superior technology displays your fitness progress including your Time, Strokes, Strokes/min, Calories burned, Distance, and Pulse. The rowing console is also compatible with 5.3 KHz heart rate monitors – sold separately.
  • MAGNETIC RESISTANCE: 10 levels of magnetic resistance challenge your rowing experience while you increase cardio and strength training. The magnetic resistance is higher quality than other tension systems and is a powerful option for your workout.
  • COMFORT AND QUALITY: Full padded seat and non slip grip handlebars are designed for optimal comfort and stability. The oversized foot pads are ergonomically designed and pivot for full range of motion.
  • POWERFUL AND QUIET DESIGN: Magnetic resistance creates an ultra silent rowing workout even for the toughest rides. Max user weight is 300 Lbs.

The SF-RW5508 is a premium-quality fitness product that will help you achieve all your fitness goals.

Keep your momentum high with your feet firmly in place on the pedals. The textured, non-slip foot pedals accommodate all sizes while ensuring maximum footing even in the most intense workouts. This way, you shall focus on the workout without feeling unbalanced.

Keeping track of your fitness goals on the SF-RW5508 is simple with the digital monitor screen. It shows the distance covered and time to keep you focused on achieving your fitness goals.

Switch up your workout intensity with the adjustable tension knob. The eight levels of resistance make your workout challenging and dynamic throughout your fitness journey. The user is allowed to engage in different and challenging workouts regimens, which exercise the muscles properly with a variety in exercise patterns.

The height of this rowing machine, together with the soft padded seat, facilitates easy mounting and disembarking. Also, the soft padding is intended to ensure proper blood flow to the gluteal region to prolong your workout sessions. The soft padding further helps in relieving the pressure of the tail bones, reducing fatigue.

The SF-RW5808, with its foldable design and transport wheels, makes it convenient to store and transport.

Among magnetic rowers, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-5808 is the best magnetic rower and is one of the best rowing machines today.

Pros
  • Has a number of high-end features
  • The eight levels of magnetic resistance make your workout challenging
  • Easy to store and transport
  • The display screen shows
  • Its seat is easy to get on and off
  • A safe pedal that accommodates most persons
Cons
  • No negative review of this product has ever been received

 

  1. Marcy Turbine Rower

Marcy Foldable Turbine Rowing Machine Rower with 8 Resistance Setting and Transport Wheels NS-6050RE, Gray
  • 8 RESISTANCE SETTINGS – The Marcy Turbine Rowing Machine consists of eight levels of resistance that allow users to customize their workout from easy to intense.
  • INCLUDES COMPUTER DISPLAY PANEL – This Turbine Rowing Machine has a built-in display panel so that you can easily monitor your speed, distance, time, calories burned, and RPM.
  • DURABLE INJECTION MOLDED SEAT – The Marcy Turbine Rowing Machine is made with a durable ergonomically designed injection molded seat that allows users to exercise comfortably.
  • ADJUSTABLE FOOT STRAPS – This exercise machine comes with two adjustable foot platforms with straps that offer comfort and stability during your workout routine.

The Marcy Turbine Rowing Machine is unique in its working mechanism. While most of the best rowing machines are either magnetic or water-based, The Marcy Rower is turbine-based. Nonetheless, it retains most of the primary features of rowing machines.

It features up to 8 levels of resistance that allow users to customize their workout intensities per their fitness needs. An in-built computer display panel will enable you to monitor the speed, distance covered, calories burned, and revolutions per minute. Moreover, the durable injection-molded seat is ergonomically designed to give users a comfortable rowing experience.

Plus, the adjustable foot straps on the pedal are intended to plant your feet firmly while offering comfort and stability while you are on your workout routine. Thanks to the solid steel construction, the Marcy Turbine Rowing Machine will last for a very long time while delivering top-class performance.

The designers of this rowing machine had the complications of space in mind and ensured the rower had a lightweight, compact design. This, coupled with the transport wheels, allows users to store the rower without any inconvenience. You can easily perform several cardio exercises on this very powerful turbine rowing machine.

Get the Marcy Rowing Machine to get a full-body workout within the convenience of your home.

Pros
  • The handles and the pedal are all non-slip
  • Its seat is super-comfortable
  • Easy to store and transport
  • Reliable computer display screen
  • Helps you exercise all major muscle groups
Cons
  • The mat on the feet slides a lot, though that should be easy to sort out
  • Makes some noise

 

  1. Circuit Fitness Deluxe Magnetic Rowing Machine

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Circuit Fitness Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine with 8 Resistance Settings and LCD Monitor
  • HARD-WEARING CONSTRUCTION - Made from heavy-duty steel and aluminum, this gear’s premium frame is engineered to provide increased reliability to keep every user stable and secure.
  • VARIABLE RESISTANCE SETTINGS - This practical gym equipment is equipped with a manual magnetic resistance system that offers multiple intensities. It allows you to increase or decrease the intensity for efficient and challenging workouts.
  • COMFORTABLE WORKOUT GEAR - Reinforced with a durable injection-molded seat that offers maximum support and comfort for an extended period. It also features foam-covered handlebars and adjustable foot straps for superior grip and stability.
  • DIGITAL SCREEN DISPLAY - Completed with an LCD screen panel that allows you to track your progress and fitness goals easily. It tracks speed, distance, time, calories burned, SPM, date and ambient temperature to keep you updated of your development.

Achieve your fitness goals with the foldable Circuit Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine with its 11-pound flywheel that offers eight resistance levels of resistance.

The display panel measures your progress quite effectively, tracking speed, distance, time, calories burned, revolutions per minute, date, and temperature. A heart rate monitor chest strap also monitors pulse rate.

The durable foam-covered handle is designed to be very comfortable with the anti-slip grip that lets users stay consistent throughout their workouts. It is also equipped with a durable injection-molded seat that reduces user fatigue.

This rowing machine has an 11-lb flywheel plus magnetic resistance, which will help boost your cardiovascular endurance. The two pedals have a slip-resistant design boosted by a set of adjustable foot straps that secure your feet and increase stability. This set of features is coupled with a foldable design that allows you to store it easily once your workout session is over.

Pros
  • Comfortable to use
  • Stable design
  • Long-lasting
  • The flywheel is designed to produce reliable resistance that makes your exercise challenging
  • The display panel helps you keep track of your fitness progress
Cons
  • The seat rail is too tight
  • The battery-operated screen does not have an on and off button

 

Wrap Up 

There is no shortage of rowing machines in the online market. The products vary from the highest quality to the lowest. This diversity in quality is similar to that of prices. In a bid to find a budget-friendly choice, you may stumble upon some substandard rowers. This is the mistake we wish you not to succumb to. Our comprehensive guide of the best rowing machines under 500 will help you do just that.

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