The 5 Best Rowing Machines for Home Gyms (2026)
Jake is a certified personal trainer and rowing enthusiast. He has logged 2,000+ hours on rowing machines across 8 different models since 2018.
What's the best rowing machine for a home gym?
The Concept2 Model D is the best rowing machine ever made and nothing in 2026 changes that. It's Olympic-standard, folds for storage, and the PM5 measures real watts. If you want connected content and quieter operation, Hydrow Wave is the best alternative.
Rowing is the most complete cardio exercise available for a home gym — it works the full body, is low-impact, and is brutally effective for conditioning. We tested five machines including air, water, and electromagnetic resistance types.
Every product on this list has been physically tested by our team in our 2,400 sq ft testing facility in Denver, CO. We evaluate each product across durability, performance, value, and user experience over a minimum 4-week testing period. We do not accept payment for placement. Read our full testing methodology.
| Rower | Score | Price | Resistance | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concept2 Model DTOP PICK | 9.8/10 | $1,005 | Air resistance | 500 lbs | Best Overall |
| Hydrow Wave | 8.9/10 | $1,895 | Magnetic/electromagnetic | 375 lbs | Best Connected |
| Ergatta Connected Rower | 8.7/10 | $2,199 | Water resistance | 300 lbs | Best Game-Based |
| NordicTrack RW900 | 8.4/10 | $1,599 | Electromagnetic resistance | 250 lbs | Best Budget Connected |
| WaterRower Natural | 8.8/10 | $1,349 | Water resistance | 1,000 lbs | Best Premium Natural |
Concept2 Model D
The Concept2 Model D has been the standard-bearer for rowing machines since 1981. It's used at the Olympics, CrossFit Games, and in virtually every serious gym worldwide. After 40+ years, Concept2 hasn't needed to change the fundamental design much because it works. The chain-and-flywheel air resistance creates a smooth, responsive stroke. The PM5 monitor is the most accurate in the industry — it measures actual watts and compares to standardized splits. Our unit is 6 years old and has never needed a single repair.
- ✓ The global standard for rowing — used at Olympics
- ✓ PM5 monitor measures real watts for accurate comparisons
- ✓ Folds vertically to store in ~24" x 36" footprint
- ✓ 500 lb weight capacity
- ✓ 6+ years daily use in our facility — zero repairs
- ✓ Strong resale value
- × Air resistance is loud at high damper settings
- × Basic aesthetics — industrial, not living-room-friendly
- × No connected content without third-party apps
Hydrow Wave
Hydrow's Wave makes the strongest case that connected rowing can improve your commitment to the sport. The on-water video workouts with real instructors rowing on actual rivers feel genuinely immersive — it's the Peloton moment for rowing. The electromagnetic resistance is quieter than Concept2 and the drag profile is smooth. The main trade-offs: it's heavier, more expensive, and doesn't fold.
- ✓ Best connected rowing experience available
- ✓ Electromagnetic resistance is significantly quieter than air
- ✓ On-water video workouts feel genuinely immersive
- ✓ High-quality build — premium feel
- × $1,895 + $38/month subscription
- × Does not fold — requires permanent floor space
- × Heavier than Concept2 at 104 lbs
Ergatta Connected Rower
Ergatta uses water resistance and gamified workouts — competitive races, challenges, and programs. If traditional cardio bores you to tears but you're competitive, Ergatta's approach is genuinely engaging. The water resistance has a beautiful, natural feel. At $2,199 it's the most expensive option here, and the 300 lb capacity is the lowest.
- ✓ Gamified workouts drive engagement for competitive types
- ✓ Water resistance has a natural, organic feel
- ✓ Beautiful walnut wood construction
- ✓ Responsive 17.3" screen
- × Most expensive at $2,199
- × Lowest weight capacity at 300 lbs
- × Does not fold
- × Limited content vs. Hydrow
NordicTrack RW900
The NordicTrack RW900 delivers iFit-integrated rowing with a 22" screen and automatic resistance adjustment at a competitive price. The fold feature is useful for storing it upright. The 250 lb weight capacity is the main concern — it's significantly lower than Concept2 (500 lbs) and may limit broader household use.
- ✓ iFit integration with instructor-controlled resistance
- ✓ 22" screen with large content library
- ✓ Folds for storage
- ✓ Competitive pricing for features included
- × 250 lb weight capacity limits audience
- × iFit subscription required ($39/month)
- × Heavier at 122 lbs
WaterRower Natural
The WaterRower Natural is made from solid ash wood and stores vertically in an elegant upright position. It is, objectively, the most beautiful piece of home gym equipment we own. The water resistance creates an authentic rowing sensation and the sound of the water is pleasant rather than harsh. At a 1,000 lb capacity, it handles literally any user. A genuinely premium purchase for the home that doubles as functional art.
- ✓ Beautiful solid ash construction
- ✓ 1,000 lb weight capacity
- ✓ Stores vertically in attractive upright position
- ✓ Water resistance sounds and feels authentic
- ✓ A luxury item that improves its environment
- × $1,349 for hardware only — no connected features
- × Heavy at 108 lbs
- × S4 monitor is basic vs. PM5 or touchscreens
Get Our Best Equipment Deals
Weekly picks: best gear sales, new equipment drops, and exclusive discount codes from our testing lab. 12,000+ subscribers.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.