The Standard in Rowing & Exercise Since 1976
In addition to the monitor, we have also improved some aspects of the Merach R50 Air Pro Rower’s appearance to create a visual distinction from the original model. Merach is a home fitness brand that focuses on fast fat burning. Since its establishment, Merach has been committed to providing consumers with more scientific and efficient fat burning solutions through technological innovation. With every oar, we commit to delivering our best effort, so you can deliver yours. Learn more and see why our oars are the preferred choice of top athletes around the world. Since 1976, we’ve been making world-leading oars that set the mark for innovation and performance.
Best Budget Rowing Machine for Small Spaces: Bells of Steel Blitz Air Rower
Unlike the Hydrow or NordicTrack machines, the Echelon Smart Rower doesn’t come with a display. Instead, you’ll need to use a tablet or smartphone to see your live workout stats via Echelon’s subscription app. There’s a wide variety of activities available through the app, including an extensive library of on-demand sessions and plenty of excellent live workouts for you to join throughout the day, 24/7. Although the RowErg is quite functional-looking, it is designed with ergonomics in mind.
All of the 5 apps listed are available in 2026 and compatible with various Bluetooth rowing machine brands. For this reason, apps like the popular ErgData app, which is only compatible with Concept2 rowing machines, are excluded from this list. It’s probably quicker to list the things the Technogym Skillrow doesn’t do (although I’m yet to find any). So believe us when we say that this impeccably-designed and built-for-life-in-the-21st-century rowing machine does it all.

NordicTrack rower review: Pros and cons

Its PM5 Performance Monitor allows you to ‘Just Row’, you can complete a select workout or connect via Bluetooth to your tablet or smartphone and row with over 30 different apps. If you just want to hop on and get your rowing workout done, this is by far the best home rower for you. Finally, consider what type of rowing machine you want, whether that be a water rower, air rower, magnetic rower or hydraulic rower, which changes the amount of resistance. Air rowers are the most popular, which use wind to create resistance. See how this dual-rail magnetic rowing machine delivers smooth, full-body, low-impact performance at home.
Is Asensei the best app for your rowing workouts?
Above the cost of the rower, you can make it interactive by pairing it with the Echelon Fit app, starting at £29.99 per month. This gives you access to live and on-demand classes, enabling you to track your stats. Connect through your own smartphone or tablet, which mounts onto the rower, or sync with other fitness apps such as Strava.
Best home rowers at a glance
Rowing machines can be small and some are foldable and therefore can be kept even in small places when not in use. When reviewing the best budget rowing machines, we considered several factors. Here’s how we selected the top cheap rowing machines for your home gym. Yet, as we age, studies show that low-impact exercise is especially beneficial for the physical and cognitive health of older adults. It’s currently 20% off, if your fast enough to snag the lightning deal. The Bodybuilding.com App is designed to help you reach your health and fitness goals.
Top benefits of Apple Fitness +:
In Mashable’s rating of the best fitness trackers, the Apple Watch 11 earns top marks thanks to its gorgeous design, comfortable fit, and speedy charging. Walked for an hour and was very satisfied with how the treadmill performed. It was easy to put together and handles my weight (290lbs) just fine.
R1 Pro Longer Slide Rail Rowing Machine
Plus, with the smooth integration of popular apps like Strava, you’ll have thorough tracking, so you stay on top of your progress like never before. But EXR doesn’t stop at tracking numbers — it makes exercising into a game. Asensei is the go-to app for advanced rowers seeking to refine their skills and enhance their fitness. Its specialized tools are designed to cater to experienced rowers, aiding them in perfecting technique and reaching their fitness objectives. With an impressive rating of 4.4, it’s hailed by our team as the best rowing app for advanced training.
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Rowing requires many different muscle areas, increases your heart rate, and boosts your metabolism. You can track how far you’ve rowed, your speed, your personal bests, and even earn cool badges. If you’re sporting an Apple Watch, you can keep tabs on your heart rate. And with live tracking, you’ll always know where you stand and how much progress you’ve made—keeping you motivated every stroke. The CITYRow offers a variety of classes, tutorials, and instructors to achieve your fitness rowing goals, while using one of the best rowing apps. The Echelon app offers plenty of variety with over 30 instructors, each with their own unique style.
Merach Unveils World-First Home Fitness Solutions at CES 2026
It’s also the sturdiest option in this list, although that does mean it’s not foldable. It does, however, separate into two if you wish to store it for a while, with wheels for transportation. From running shoes to exercise bikes, all reviews are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing.
Premium Smart Ultra Quiet Dual Slide Rail Magnetic Rowing Machine
Despite a few concerns about seat comfort over long sessions, most users agree the rower is excellent for its price and performance. The machine’s ability to split into two for easy storage is another plus for those with limited space. As you move from your legs to arms, trunk, and shoulders, each stroke on the rowing machine targets specific areas, making it one of the best full-body workouts for home. This makes it easy to find the best rowing machine, whether you’re looking for the best budget home rowing machine or the best value for your money.
- Walked for an hour and was very satisfied with how the treadmill performed.
- While some of the best home rowing machines don’t have integrated displays or internet-enabled features, many rowers do.
- They offer a more budget-friendly solution with their rowing app.
- Kg, and includes adjustable non-slip pedals and a comfortable seat for safe and stable rowing.
- Customers appreciate features like the adjustable damper for regulating resistance.
- Many of the machines included in this article are foldable, which goes some way to helping with this issue.
Our editors have tested and researched the best wellness gear on the market. These are our favorite rowing machines to add to your home, selected after vetting brands and scouring hundreds of customer reviews. We’ve made selections that are easy to use, super effective, and built to last at a range of price points so you can find the one that works best for your setup.
Bells of Steel Blitz Air Rower is a budget-friendly rowing machine perfect for home gyms, especially where space is limited. This portable model is easy to dismantle, making it madmuscles scam perfect for small homes or flats. It uses air resistance to provide a solid rowing workout for all user levels.
There’s no getting around that the air resistance mechanism is loud, so you’ll need a dedicated space to exercise in, but on balance, it deserves its place as our top rowing machine overall. For example, the Hydrow app is compatible with any rowing machine, while the Ergatta app is exclusive to the Ergatta rower. As a general rule, it’s best to check compatibility before purchasing a rowing app to ensure it works with your equipment.
With various programs to meet all levels of expertise, it’s a game-changer. Our tester found it a bit overwhelming, but they appreciated the variety. Whether it’s a scenic row or a journey through Glacier National Park, there’s something for everyone. If scenic workouts aren’t your thing, iFIT also offers studio row classes for that gym-like atmosphere, with instructors cheering you on. With an instruction score of 4.5, their guidance is clear and motivating.