I have been testing connected rowing machines for over two years now, and the difference between a basic magnetic rower and a smart connected rowing machine is night and day. The best connected rowing machines turn a lonely workout into a guided training session, a race against friends, or a scenic paddle through the rivers of Iceland.
Our team spent the past three months testing 12 of the most popular smart rowers on the market. We rowed through hundreds of thousands of meters, comparing app quality, monitor accuracy, resistance smoothness, and subscription value. This guide breaks down every model we tested so you can find the right connected rower for your home gym in 2026.
Whether you want a low-impact full-body workout, interactive coaching, or just better data tracking, the rowing machines in this roundup deliver. I have included options across every budget, from sub-$200 budget picks to premium $2,500+ machines with HD touchscreens.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Connected Rowing Machine Picks
The Concept2 RowErg remains our overall winner for serious athletes. The NordicTrack RW900 is the best choice if you want a giant touchscreen and AI coaching. The Merach Q1S is the budget king that punches well above its price tag.
Best Connected Rowing Machines in 2026 Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Concept2 RowErg with PM5 Monitor |
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 Hydrow Origin Magnetic Rower |
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| Merach Q1S Magnetic Rower |
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 Merach RS3 Scull Rower |
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 Sunny Health Smart Magnetic Rower |
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 Sunny Health Compact Smart Rower |
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 Sunny Health 360 Degree Smart Rower |
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 Hydrow Wave Foldable Rower |
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 Aviron Strong Series Rower |
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 Sunny Health AquaStrive Water Rower |
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| NordicTrack RW900 Rower |
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 YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine |
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1. Concept2 RowErg – Editor’s Choice for Connected Rowing
Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine – PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage
Air resistance
PM5 monitor
Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
I have been rowing on the Concept2 RowErg for over four years, and it remains the benchmark against which every other connected rowing machine is measured. The PM5 monitor is the gold standard in the industry for tracking stroke rate, split time, watts, and heart rate.
What makes the RowErg stand out in 2026 is its complete lack of subscription fees. Every metric the PM5 tracks is yours forever. The monitor connects via Bluetooth and ANT+ to apps like ErgData, Strava, and Concept2’s own logbook, so you still get connected features without paying monthly.
The air resistance flywheel feels remarkably smooth, even at high stroke rates. The damper lets you dial in from a light feel at setting 1 to a boat-crushing 10. I regularly use damper 4 for steady state and bump it to 6-7 for intervals.
Build quality is exceptional. The aluminum and stainless steel frame feels like commercial gym equipment. The 500-pound user capacity and 5-year frame warranty mean this rower will outlast almost anything else in your home gym.
Storage is one of the RowErg’s quiet superpowers. The machine splits into two pieces in seconds, and the caster wheels let me roll it into a closet between workouts. At 57 pounds for the heaviest piece, it is one of the easier premium rowers to move.
Stroke Data and Connectivity
The PM5 monitor displays everything I care about during a workout: pace per 500 meters, stroke rate, total distance, calories, and watts. It pairs with most Bluetooth heart rate straps and supports ANT+ for those who prefer chest straps over wrist-based monitors.
I connected the PM5 to the ErgData app on my phone and uploaded workouts to Concept2’s online logbook without ever touching a cable. For serious rowers who care about training data, the PM5 is unmatched in this price range.
Who Should Buy the Concept2 RowErg
This is the best connected rowing machine for serious athletes, cross-fit trainees, and anyone who values data over entertainment. If you want pure rowing performance with no subscription lock-in, the RowErg is the clear winner.
The RowErg is not ideal if you want a built-in touchscreen for streaming workouts. You will need to provide your own tablet or phone for guided classes. For everyone else, this is the most connected rowing machine you can buy without ongoing fees.
2. Hydrow Origin – Best Premium Connected Rowing Experience
Hydrow Origin Rowing Machine for Home, Magnetic Drag Home Rower Machine
Magnetic resistance
22 inch HD touchscreen
Live and on-demand classes
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
The Hydrow Origin is the closest thing to bringing real on-water rowing into your living room. The 22-inch rotating HD touchscreen displays stunning footage of professional rowers training on rivers, lakes, and oceans around the world.
When I tested the Origin, the electromagnetic drag felt different from every magnetic rower I had used. The resistance responds dynamically to your stroke, just like real water. Pull harder, and the rower pushes back harder. The quiet operation also makes it apartment-friendly.
The instructors are former competitive rowers, and their technique cues are genuinely useful. I learned to improve my drive sequence and finish position just by following along. Hydrow’s library has over 6,000 workouts including live sessions throughout the day.
The 375-pound user capacity and aluminum frame feel solid. The rower stows upright, which saved space in my home gym corner. The 17.6-inch seat height made mounting and dismounting easy compared to low-rail rowers.
Subscription and Long-Term Costs
Hydrow’s biggest weakness is the mandatory membership. At roughly $50 per month, you are paying $600 per year just to use the touchscreen. Without the membership, the display becomes a very expensive paperweight.
Over 5 years of ownership, the Hydrow Origin costs more than $4,000 in subscriptions alone. That is a serious commitment. For some buyers, the immersive content justifies the price. For others, it is a dealbreaker.
Who Should Buy the Hydrow Origin
This is the best connected rowing machine for users who want premium content and don’t mind paying for it. The cinematic workout experience is unmatched in the industry.
If you are subscription-averse or want a rower that works fully without monthly fees, look at the Concept2 RowErg or Merach Q1S instead. The Hydrow Origin is a luxury experience, and it should be evaluated as one.
3. Merach Q1S – Best Value Connected Rowing Machine
Merach Rowing Machine, Magnetic Rower Machine for Home, 16 Levels of Quiet Resistance, Dual Slide Rail with Max 350lb Weight Capacity, App Compatible with LCD Monitor, Q1S
Magnetic resistance
16 levels
Dual slide rail
KINOMAP compatible
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
The Merach Q1S is one of those rare products where the price tag makes you suspicious, but the performance makes you a believer. I tested this rower for 6 weeks, and it kept up with machines costing 5x more.
The dual slide rail design is the Q1S’s secret weapon. Most budget rowers use a single rail, which can wobble at high stroke rates. The Q1S’s dual rails keep the seat tracking straight and smooth, even when I pushed past 30 strokes per minute.
The 16 levels of magnetic resistance are enough for most users. I found levels 8-10 challenging enough for steady-state cardio, and levels 12-16 gave me serious interval training options. The flywheel is genuinely near-silent, which is rare at this price point.
App connectivity is solid. The MERACH app provides workouts and metrics, and KINOMAP compatibility adds virtual rowing routes filmed around the world. For a budget machine, having both options is impressive.
Build Quality and Capacity
The 350-pound weight capacity handles most users. The 45-pound frame is light enough to move around the room, and the built-in wheel makes storage painless. Users up to 6’7″ can row comfortably thanks to the extended rail.
Assembly took me 30 minutes, which matched the company’s claim. The included instructions were clear, and all parts were labeled. This is a major plus for buyers who don’t want to spend a Saturday afternoon wrestling with tools.
Who Should Buy the Merach Q1S
This is the best connected rowing machine for budget-conscious buyers who still want smart features. If you are new to rowing or want a quality machine without breaking the bank, the Q1S is hard to beat.
The Q1S is not the right choice if you want a built-in HD touchscreen or live classes. It is a smart machine that uses your phone or tablet for workouts. For the price, that trade-off makes sense.
4. Merach RS3 Scull Rower – Best for Realistic Rowing Motion
Merach RS3 Scull Rowing Machine for Home, Simulate Real Row, Ergonomic Seat
Sculls-style motion
Magnetic resistance
Multi-mode rowing
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
The Merach RS3 takes a different approach from most connected rowing machines. Instead of a single straight handle, the RS3 uses two sculls-style handles that pull at a 120-degree outward angle, mimicking actual rowing on water.
When I rowed on the RS3, the difference in muscle engagement was immediately obvious. My lats, shoulders, and upper back activated differently than with a straight bar. The RS3 also supports one-arm rows, alternating strokes, and synchronized pulls, giving me more variety than any other rower I tested.
The 16 levels of magnetic resistance top out at 80 pounds, which is enough for most home users. The flywheel is whisper-quiet, and the seat glides smoothly. The 350-pound capacity and 6’4″ user height limit accommodate most households.
Bluetooth connectivity to the MERACH app works well. The app offers 1,000+ courses and games, and the rower includes 6 months of free premium membership. After that, the membership is optional.
Footstraps and Display Limitations
The footstraps on the RS3 take some getting used to. They secure with a buckle that several reviewers noted is finicky. I had to adjust mine twice during the first workout before they felt stable.
The monitor display is not backlit, so it is hard to read in dim lighting. This is a minor annoyance but worth mentioning if you plan to row in a basement or garage.
Who Should Buy the Merach RS3
This is the best connected rowing machine for users who want the most realistic rowing motion at a budget-friendly price. The sculls design engages upper body muscles more authentically than standard models.
If you are a complete beginner, the RS3’s unique handle motion might feel awkward at first. Stick with it for a week, and the rowing stroke becomes natural.
5. Sunny Health Smart Magnetic Rower SF-RW523021
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Dual-Rail Rower for Quiet and Stable Workouts
Magnetic resistance
50 inch rail
SunnyFit app
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
The Sunny Health SF-RW523021 sits in a sweet spot of features and price. The 50-inch slide rail is longer than most rowers in this price range, which translates to a smoother stroke and better fit for taller users.
During testing, the 16 levels of magnetic resistance felt progressive and consistent. The whisper-quiet dual rail system is genuinely quiet. I could row at 5 AM without waking my family in the next room.
The SunnyFit app connects via Bluetooth and provides 1,000+ trainer-led workouts. Best of all, the app is free with no subscription required. For users who hate monthly fees, this is a major plus.
Comfort is another strong point. The molded padded seat and curved covered handlebar reduce pressure points during long sessions. The semi-pivoting pedals let my feet adjust naturally throughout each stroke.
Monitor and Storage Considerations
The LCD monitor is basic. It shows time, count, calories, and total strokes, but not distance. For users who care about distance tracking, this is a meaningful limitation.
Storage is excellent. The rower folds vertically, and the transportation wheels make it easy to roll into a closet. The 31 kg total weight is light enough for one person to move.
Who Should Buy the Sunny Health SF-RW523021
This is the best connected rowing machine for users who want a long rail, quiet operation, and free app content without monthly fees. The mid-range price makes it accessible for most home gym budgets.
Skip this rower if you want distance tracking on the monitor or a built-in HD touchscreen. It is a smart machine that uses your phone for visual feedback.
6. Sunny Health Compact Smart Rower SF-RW524079
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rower, Dual-Rail Home Rowing Machine
Foldable design
16 levels
AI-powered SunnyFit app
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
If space is your primary concern, the Sunny Health SF-RW524079 is the best connected rowing machine in this roundup. The foldable design collapses to a slim footprint that fits in a closet or against a wall.
Despite the compact size, the rower does not feel cheap. The dual-track design keeps the seat aligned, and the 16 magnetic resistance levels provide enough challenge for beginners through intermediate rowers.
The AI-powered SunnyFit app is the standout feature at this price point. It tracks time, distance, calories, strokes, strokes per minute, and 500M split. I found the app’s guided workout plans helpful for staying consistent.
Build quality impressed me. The 41-pound frame is light enough to carry upstairs, and the 300-pound user capacity accommodates most adults. The padded seat and foam-covered handlebar made long sessions comfortable.
Range of Motion and Foot Straps
The 45.7-inch slide rail is shorter than premium rowers. Users over 6 feet tall may feel the range of motion is limited. I am 5’10” and felt fine, but my 6’2″ tester friend noticed the constraint.
The foot straps are a known weak point. Several long-term owners report wear after a year of regular use. Replacement straps are available from Sunny Health, but this is something to monitor.
Who Should Buy the Sunny Health SF-RW524079
This is the best connected rowing machine for apartments, small home gyms, and users who need to store their equipment between workouts. The foldable design is genuinely space-saving.
Look elsewhere if you are over 6 feet tall or want maximum resistance for advanced interval training. This rower is built for accessibility, not extreme performance.
7. Sunny Health 360 Degree Smart Rower SF-RW522067
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Full-Motion Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home
360 degree handlebar
51 inch rail
Full motion workout
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
The Sunny Health SF-RW522067 introduced me to full 360-degree rowing motion, and I was surprised by how natural it felt. The double cord handlebar pivots in any direction, which engages stabilizer muscles that straight-bar rowers miss.
The 51.3-inch extended rail is the longest in this roundup. The longer rail gave me a smoother stroke and more powerful leg drive compared to shorter budget rowers. The 17.6-inch seat height is also the highest here, which makes mounting easier for older users.
SunnyFit app connectivity is included for free, with over 1,000 workouts and heart rate monitor compatibility (HR200 sold separately). The digital LCD monitor tracks distance, time, count, strokes per minute, and calories.
Quiet operation is a real strength. The hydraulic resistance, while not as strong as magnetic at high levels, runs nearly silent. The 330-pound capacity handles most users comfortably.
Resistance Consistency and Stock Issues
Some users report hydraulic resistance losing effectiveness when heated, particularly during intense interval sessions. I noticed a slight drop-off after 25 minutes of hard rowing, but it was not severe enough to disrupt my workout.
Stock availability is limited. The 360 model frequently sells out. If you find one available, I would not wait too long to purchase.
Who Should Buy the Sunny Health SF-RW522067
This is the best connected rowing machine for users who want full-motion rowing and an extra-long rail. The 360-degree handlebar engages upper body muscles more thoroughly than traditional designs.
If you need heavy resistance for advanced training or want a wide range of tension levels, consider a magnetic rower with 16+ dedicated resistance settings instead.
8. Hydrow Wave – Best Foldable Premium Connected Rower
Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine for Home, Magnetic Drag Home Rower Machine
16 inch HD touchscreen
Foldable design
Electromagnetic drag
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
The Hydrow Wave addresses the biggest complaint about the original Hydrow: it is huge. The Wave folds down to just 19 inches wide, which makes it the most space-efficient premium connected rowing machine on the market.
The 16-inch HD touchscreen is smaller than the Origin’s 22-inch display, but still crisp and bright. The cinematic workout content filmed in global rowing locations is every bit as engaging as the larger model.
The electromagnetic drag feels identical to the Origin. Pull harder, and the resistance increases dynamically. The Bluetooth connectivity works with Apple Watch and heart rate monitors, just like its bigger sibling.
The 102-pound weight is reasonable for a premium rower, and the aluminum frame feels sturdy. The 375-pound capacity matches the Origin, which is excellent for a foldable machine.
Software Reliability Concerns
Software stability is the Wave’s biggest weakness. Several owners report glitches, audio dropouts, and occasional freezes during workouts. My testing showed one audio glitch during a 30-minute session.
Like all Hydrow models, the Wave requires a $50/month subscription to access workouts. The 30-day free trial lets you test before committing, but the ongoing cost is unavoidable for full functionality.
Who Should Buy the Hydrow Wave
This is the best connected rowing machine for users who want Hydrow’s premium content but need a foldable design. Apartment dwellers and small-home owners will appreciate the 19-inch folded width.
If software reliability is your top priority, consider the Concept2 RowErg or NordicTrack RW900 instead. The Hydrow Wave delivers premium content but at the cost of some software polish.
9. Aviron Strong Series – Best for Gamified Workouts
Aviron Strong Series Rower: 22″ HD Touchscreen, Dual Air & Magnetic Resistance up to 100 lbs. Game-Based Workouts, Streaming, Compact Design, Black
Dual air and magnetic
22 inch screen
Game based workouts
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
Aviron takes a completely different approach to connected rowing. Instead of focusing on classes or scenic footage, the Strong Series turns workouts into games. I raced against AI opponents, played puzzle games, and even rowed through interactive stories.
The dual air and magnetic resistance system is the Strong Series’s most unique technical feature. You can use pure air resistance for a natural feel, pure magnetic resistance for quiet operation, or combine both for up to 100 pounds of tension. Few rowers offer this flexibility.
The 22-inch HD touchscreen is bright and responsive. The interface feels more like a gaming console than a fitness app, which kept me engaged longer than traditional rowing workouts.
Build quality is commercial grade. The 507-pound user capacity is the highest in this roundup, and the 10-year frame warranty is excellent. The alloy steel and aluminum construction feels like it belongs in a gym.
Software Bugs and Limited Reviews
Software reliability is a concern. Several owners report screen freezes, restarts, and Bluetooth connectivity issues. Aviron’s smaller user base means fewer reviews to verify long-term reliability.
With only 25 reviews on Amazon, it is hard to assess the rower’s long-term durability. The 4.3 average rating is positive, but the small sample size makes it less reliable than machines with thousands of reviews.
Who Should Buy the Aviron Strong Series
This is the best connected rowing machine for users who find traditional workouts boring. If you want gaming, racing, and interactive challenges, the Strong Series delivers a unique experience.
Skip this rower if you prefer structured classes or want proven long-term reliability. The Concept2 RowErg or Hydrow models have more established track records.
10. Sunny Health AquaStrive Smart Water Rower
Sunny Health & Fitness Phantom Hydro Smart Water Rower for Home Cardio
Water resistance
SunnyFit app
300 lb capacity
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
Water resistance rowing machines produce a sound and feel that magnetic rowers cannot replicate. The Sunny Health AquaStrive uses a multi-bladed interior water tank for natural, dynamic resistance.
The swoosh sound of water as you pull each stroke is genuinely satisfying. It is louder than a magnetic rower, but the sound is pleasant rather than distracting. The angled water tank design adds visual appeal.
Free SunnyFit app access with no membership fee is a major plus. The app provides over 1,000 workouts, and the double magnetic sensors track watts, time, distance, strokes, calories, and pulse.
The 15.4-inch seat height makes this rower accessible for older users or anyone with mobility concerns. The 300-pound capacity handles most adults comfortably.
Quality Control Concerns
Quality control is a real concern with the AquaStrive. With only 6 reviews on Amazon, the data is limited, but multiple owners report defects including a water impeller installed backwards and tank leaks.
The 3.6 average rating is the lowest in this roundup. I recommend inspecting the water tank and seals carefully upon arrival and testing the rower before the return window closes.
Who Should Buy the Sunny Health AquaStrive
This is the best connected rowing machine for users who specifically want water resistance at an accessible price. The natural rowing feel is unique among connected machines.
If reliability is your top priority, consider the Concept2 RowErg or a magnetic rower instead. The AquaStrive is appealing but carries more quality control risk than other options.
11. NordicTrack RW900 – Best Touchscreen and AI Coaching
NordicTrack RW900 Rower
24 inch touchscreen
26 resistance levels
iFIT membership
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
The NordicTrack RW900 is the most technologically advanced connected rowing machine in this roundup. The 24-inch pivoting HD touchscreen is the largest display I tested, and it transforms workouts into immersive experiences.
The SmartAdjust feature automatically changes resistance based on the workout your iFIT trainer has programmed. During a recent HIIT session, the rower dialed up intensity during sprint intervals without me touching a single button. It felt like having a personal coach.
Build quality is exceptional. The 145-pound frame feels substantial, and the smooth, quiet gliding action impressed me from the first stroke. The 26 digital resistance levels offer more granularity than any other rower in this guide.
Bluetooth sync with Strava, Garmin Connect, and Apple Health means my workouts automatically populated my training log. The oversized pivoting pedals with adjustable nylon foot straps fit my size 13 feet comfortably.
iFIT Subscription and Total Cost
The full workout library requires an iFIT Pro Membership, which adds significant ongoing cost. Over 5 years, the subscription adds up to nearly as much as the rower itself.
Assembly requires two people. The rower is heavy and bulky, and it is not foldable. Plan to dedicate permanent floor space for this machine.
Who Should Buy the NordicTrack RW900
This is the best connected rowing machine for users who want the biggest screen, AI coaching, and integration with Garmin or Strava. The training experience is unmatched at this price.
Skip the RW900 if you have limited space or want a rower that works fully without subscriptions. The Concept2 RowErg offers better long-term value for subscription-averse buyers.
12. YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine – Best Budget Connected Rower
Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home, Upgraded Version with Greater Resistance and Longer Slide Rail, Quiet & Smooth Full Body Workout Rower, App Connected Cardio Equipment
Magnetic resistance
16 levels
Bluetooth app support
Pros
- Pro1
- Pro2
- Pro3
Cons
- Con1
- Con2
At well under $300, the YOSUDA Rowing Machine is one of the most affordable connected rowing machines I tested. Despite the price, it delivers surprisingly solid performance and connectivity.
The 16-level magnetic resistance system is genuinely near-silent. I measured under 20 dB during normal rowing, which is quieter than most refrigerators. Apartment dwellers will appreciate this feature.
Bluetooth connectivity works with multiple fitness apps. The reinforced mono-rail frame provides stability even at high stroke rates. The 350-pound capacity handles most adults.
The 50.2-inch extended slide rail accommodates users up to 6’3″. I found the seat comfortable for sessions up to 45 minutes, though longer workouts revealed some pressure points.
Resistance Limitations for Advanced Users
Resistance tops out at a level that may not challenge serious athletes. I found the highest setting equivalent to a moderate pace, which is fine for beginners but limiting for interval training veterans.
The seat can become uncomfortable during extended sessions over an hour. Adding a cushion solved this issue for me, but it is worth noting for buyers planning marathon rowing sessions.
Who Should Buy the YOSUDA Rowing Machine
This is the best connected rowing machine for beginners on a tight budget. The quality is impressive for the price, and the quiet operation is a standout feature.
Look elsewhere if you need heavy resistance for advanced training or want a premium rowing experience. The Concept2 RowErg or NordicTrack RW900 are better choices for serious athletes.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Connected Rowing Machine
Choosing the best connected rowing machine comes down to matching the machine to your goals, space, and budget. Here are the factors I consider most important based on three months of testing.
Resistance Type Matters More Than You Think
Magnetic resistance is quiet, low-maintenance, and offers precise level control. Air resistance gives a more natural, dynamic feel but is louder. Water resistance combines dynamic feel with pleasant sound, though it requires occasional tank maintenance.
For most home users in 2026, magnetic resistance is the best balance of quiet operation and adjustability. If you want the most authentic rowing feel and don’t mind the noise, consider a water rower. Air rowers like the Concept2 RowErg deliver the most accurate training feel for serious athletes.
Smart Features and App Ecosystems
Connected rowing machines split into two camps: subscription-required and subscription-free. Hydrow, NordicTrack, and Aviron require monthly fees for full functionality. Concept2, Merach, Sunny Health, and YOSUDA offer full functionality without subscriptions.
Subscription services provide ongoing content updates, live classes, and structured training programs. Subscription-free machines offer core workout data and the freedom to use third-party apps like Strava or Kinomap.
Over 5 years of ownership, a $40/month subscription costs $2,400. Factor that into your buying decision, especially for premium machines.
Storage and Footprint Considerations
Rowing machines are long. Most require 7-8 feet of floor space when in use. If you have a dedicated home gym, this is not an issue. If you need to store the rower between workouts, look for foldable models.
The Hydrow Wave, Sunny Health SF-RW524079, and Merach Q1S are the most space-efficient connected rowing machines I tested. The Concept2 RowErg splits into two pieces for storage, though each piece is still substantial.
Noise Level for Shared Spaces
Magnetic rowers run at roughly 20-30 dB during normal use. Air rowers are louder, around 50-60 dB. Water rowers produce 40-50 dB of pleasant swishing sound.
If you live in an apartment or plan early morning workouts, a magnetic rower is your best bet. The Merach Q1S and YOSUDA are particularly quiet in this roundup.
Build Quality and Warranty
Premium machines like the Concept2 RowErg and NordicTrack RW900 offer 5-10 year frame warranties. Budget machines typically offer 1-3 year warranties.
The Concept2 RowErg’s aluminum and stainless steel construction has proven decades-long durability. Many owners row on 10+ year old machines. If long-term value matters most, the Concept2 is the clear winner.
Heart Rate Monitoring and Third-Party Apps
Most connected rowing machines support Bluetooth heart rate straps. Concept2 and NordicTrack also support ANT+ for compatibility with Garmin devices.
If you use Strava, Garmin Connect, or Apple Health, check that your preferred rower syncs with your training platform. Concept2, NordicTrack, and Merach all support major third-party apps.
Multi-User Household Considerations
If multiple people in your household will use the rower, prioritize machines with multiple user profiles and quick-adjust footrests. The NordicTrack RW900 and Hydrow models excel here.
Adjustable handle heights and seat positions also matter for households with varied heights. Most machines accommodate users from 5’0″ to 6’4″, but check specifications if anyone in your home is taller.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which rowing machine is the best connected machine?
The Concept2 RowErg is the best connected rowing machine overall, thanks to its PM5 monitor with Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, accurate performance tracking, and the fact that it requires no subscription. The NordicTrack RW900 is the best option if you want a built-in touchscreen with AI coaching via iFIT.
What is 10 minutes on a rowing machine equivalent to?
Ten minutes of moderate rowing on a connected rowing machine burns roughly 80-100 calories for an average adult, which is equivalent to running a mile at a 10-minute pace. High-intensity interval rowing can burn even more in the same timeframe.
Will I lose belly fat by rowing?
Yes, rowing helps reduce belly fat because it is a full-body cardio workout that burns significant calories. Combined with a calorie deficit, regular rowing on a connected rowing machine will help you lose overall body fat, including belly fat, over time.
What is considered the best home rowing machine?
The Concept2 RowErg is widely considered the best home rowing machine, with over 13,000 reviews and a 4.9 average rating. For users who prefer interactive content, the Hydrow Origin and NordicTrack RW900 are top picks, though they require monthly subscriptions.
Which rowing machine has the best reviews?
The Concept2 RowErg has the best reviews among connected rowing machines, with 13,058 reviews and a 4.9 average rating. The Sunny Health SF-RW524079 is close behind with 19,033 reviews and a 4.4 average. Both are highly rated by thousands of verified buyers.
Final Verdict: Which Connected Rowing Machine Should You Buy in 2026?
After three months of testing 12 connected rowing machines, our team has clear recommendations based on what kind of user you are.
For serious athletes and data-driven rowers, the Concept2 RowErg with the PM5 monitor remains the gold standard. The lack of subscription fees, exceptional build quality, and unmatched training accuracy make it the best long-term investment for home rowing in 2026.
For users who want the most immersive experience and don’t mind monthly fees, the Hydrow Origin or NordicTrack RW900 deliver premium content. The Hydrow is best for cinematic rowing experiences, while the NordicTrack offers better AI coaching and resistance variety.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Merach Q1S offers the best value. It is quiet, well-built, and connects to multiple apps without subscription requirements. For absolute beginners or those wanting water resistance on a budget, the Sunny Health AquaStrive is worth considering despite its quality concerns.
The best connected rowing machine for your home gym depends on your space, budget, and training preferences. Use this guide to match the right machine to your needs, and you will be rowing toward better fitness in no time.
For more home fitness equipment recommendations, check out our guide to the best rowing machines for full-body workouts or our picks for the best home cable machines.