Designed to mimic rowing on water, these machines use both push and pull mechanisms to engage major muscles in your body. On top of simply burning calories, they also strengthen and improve endurance, leading to full body toning for overall health. Low-maintenance, low-impact, and highly beneficial, rowing equipment is a gamechanger for anyone looking to accelerate their fitness levels. “The row machine,” says David Rosales, an expert in strength & conditioning and sports performance, “mimics the movement of a deadlift, strengthening the quads, glutes, and upper back muscles. It’s a true total-body movement.” Check out some of the best magnetic rowing machines below!
11 Best Magnetic Rowing Machines To Ace Your Fitness Journey
1. Best Overall:Fitness Reality Bluetooth Magnetic Rower
Accommodating up to 250 pounds of weight, Fitness Reality’s rower is all you need for a quick full body low impact workout. The large LCD display shows your performance while the cushioned seat helps with resting during a long session. A quiet and durable nylon belt is provided so you can listen to your favorite playlist without any noise. For smooth rowing strokes, the ball-bearing rollers come into play and the adjustable rear floor stabilizers prevent any unnecessary rocking. The rowing machine folds easily for storage and features wheels so you can transport it anywhere. Pros
Anti-slip and pivoting foot pedals with adjustable straps Phone holder included Adjustable seat height Foam-padded handlebar for comfortable grip Foldable and portable Supports up to 250 pounds
Cons
Some may find the resistance to be inadequate.
2. Best Foldable:ECHANFIT CRW 4901 Smart Series Folding Magnetic Rower
Focused on building your core strength and keeping your heart rate up, ECHANFIT’s compact magnetic rowing machine has an ergonomic design. It is a top-of-the-range model built with a solid steel frame holding up to 350 pounds and an LCD screen that tracks your activity. The magnetic flywheel system allows you to choose from 16 levels of resistance according to different training speeds and levels. With the contoured comfortable seat, your posture is stable while the textured rubber pedals come with straps for a secure fit. No matter your height, the long handle of the rowing cords is comfortable and smooth sliding mechanisms are convenient. If you are still unsure about purchasing, you can check out a review of this product on YouTube. Pros
Front transport wheels Foldable Water bottle holder No-noise operation 16 levels of resistance Accommodates up to 350 pounds
Cons
Awkward placement of tablet holder
3. Best For Quiet Workout:JOROTO Magnetic Rower Machine
JOROTO’s full motion magnetic rowing machine uses aluminum flywheels and side rails to keep sound almost non-existent for a quiet workout. 10 levels of magnetic resistance which can be adjusted are great for both beginners and frequently active people. The non-slip pedals fit most foot sizes and the LCD display can be angled multiple ways depending on your height. Built-in wheels in the front help with easy transport while protectors in the rear will keep your floors streak-free. Pros
Features cup and phone holder Foam handlebar for anti-slip grip Large cushioned and contoured seat 10 resistance types Holds up to 330 pounds Durable nylon pull-cord
Cons
Might be tricky for taller people
4. Best For Beginners:ADVENOR Magnetic Rowing Machine
The ADVENOR magnetic rowing machine is built with a solid steel frame, accommodating up to 265 pounds of weight. Holding you securely in the contoured ergonomic seat and with the anti-slip foot pedals, the machine adapts to your body and protects the spine. The 8-level magnetic resistance is super smooth and all you need to get your muscles up and running. Folding upright and moving easily with wheels, ADVENOR’s rower also has rear floor stabilizers that minimize rocking. Pros
Easy and quick installation Accommodates 265 pounds of weight Foldable and portable Digital monitor Device holder Fully padded seat and non-slip handlebars
Cons
Some might find the foot straps to be flimsy.
5. Best For All Fitness Levels:DripeX Magnetic Rowing Machine
DripeX’s Magnetic Resistance Rower is easy on the joints and suitable for all fitness levels owing to its 15-level adjustment system. Engineered precisely with a sleek design, this piece of equipment folds and stores easily. The silent aluminum sliding frame is smooth as the bottom shock absorbers guarantee you a noise-free workout session. With the ergonomic hand grips and anti-slip foot plates with straps, you can rest assured about your safety as well. Pros
LCD monitor display Holds up to 265 pounds Cushioned 3D seat 15-level adjustable resistance Rear stabilizer for less rocking Built-in shock absorbers
Cons
Might not be resistant to rusting
6. Best Foldable:Ativafit Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine
The Ativafit Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine engages all your major muscle groups with 8 levels of resistance. With a simple twist of a knob, you can customize your workout and track progress through the LCD display screen. The pedals are textured and anti-skid with handlebars that give you a good grippage. Transportation wheels make the machine super easy to move around the house and the foldable design works well to save you space. You can check out this YouTuber’s review of the product if you require more convincing. Pros
Accommodates 220 pounds of weight 8 resistance levels Foam-padded handle bars for grip Features transportation wheels Anti-slip textured foot pedals Contoured seat
Cons
The LCD display might be very dim.
7. Best Sweat-Resistant Surface:Teeter Power10 Elliptical Rower
Offering 7 levels of smooth magnetic resistance, Teeter’s body-sculpting magnetic rowing machine reduces friction to increase endurance. The real-time digital performance tracker helps you stay on top of your game as it wirelessly measures your heartbeat as well. Stroke length can also be adjusted to keep your core engaged while the quick-release foot straps give you a secure footing. Pros
Multi-grip rubber handles Adjustable height Bi-directional path allowing both push and pull Digital performance and heart rate tracker 7 resistance levels Sweat-resistant surface
Cons
Might not be completely no-noise
8. Best For Home Gym:Pooboo Magnetic Rowing Machine
Pooboo’s Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine can hold up to 300 pounds of weight and gives you a smooth and quiet exercise experience. Simply twist a knob to adjust between the 16 levels of resistance provided depending on where you are in your fitness journey. You can move with ease owing to the non-slip pedals and straps, cushioned seat, and the grippy handlebars. Floor stabilizers and sliders built in are all no-noise while a phone holder is also given for convenience. Pros
Accommodates up to 300 pounds 16 resistance levels Non-slip pedals with adjustable straps Digital tracking monitor Foam handlebars Comes with transportation wheels
Cons
Might rust over time
9. Best Durable:UREVO Foldable Rowing Machine
With smooth aluminum rails that move quietly, UREVO’s rower can be customized with 8 levels of resistance, suiting almost everyone. It can carry up to 330 pounds in weight and gives comfort with the well-cushioned seat. The silent operation is sure to make your neighbors happy and the movement is low-impact, protecting your joints. You can make note of your progress in the LCD display while the tablet holder makes time fly by quickly. Pros
8 resistance levels Capacity of 330 pounds Well-cushioned seat LCD display with tablet holder Non-slip foam handles Large textured foot pedals
Cons
The nylon cord might fray with time.
10. Best Anti-Slip Handles:SereneLife Magnetic Rowing Machine
In the SereneLife’s Rowing Machine, magnetic resistance is used at 8 varying levels for different kinds of exercises. Foldable to save you space, this machine is durable owing to its heavy-duty steel frame. The digital display monitor keeps you motivated to give it your all and you can also sync it with your phone for anywhere-visibility. Pedal-style footrests with the comfortable handlebars and cushioned seat allow you to maintain the right posture. Pros
Accommodates up to 220 pounds Foldable and space-saving 8 levels of tension Pedals with adjustable velcro straps Padded cushion Foam handlebars
Cons
Some might find the LCD to be positioned poorly.
11. SunFitter Magnetic Rowing Machine
Giving you a solid full body workout from the comfort of your own home, SunFitter’s rower can be used by all ages and fitness levels. Customize the intensity you prefer with 8 levels of resistance that work with absolutely no sound whatsoever. The digital monitor not only notifies you about your performance but can also be angled in a way that doesn’t strain your neck. The anti-slip handlebars and pedals are great at keeping you safe while you remain active. Pros
Accommodates up to 220pounds 8 tension levels Easily foldable Anti-slip handlebars and foot pedals Contoured seat Transportation wheels
Cons
The wheels might not function smoothly on carpeted surfaces.
Now that we’ve looked at some of the best magnetic rowers out there on the market, let’s learn how you can choose the right one.
How To Choose A Magnetic Rowing Machine
Weight capacity
Always ensure to check how much weight the machine can handle before you bring it home. Most rowers can accommodate anywhere between 220 to 350 pounds, some even going up to 500. This helps with various people using the machine and it is bound to be sturdy for long-time usage.
Size and stability
The size of your machine depends on how large (or small) your space is as well as your height. But for a comfortable full leg extension, the rower must have a long beam and a central seat rail. This allows you to move smoothly without hitting walls or any furniture as you can maintain proper form and posture. The heavier your machine is, the more stable it will be. Rowing machines can weigh anywhere between 50 and 100 pounds with a few also having stabilizing feet to reduce rocking or wobbling. These rubber caps are helpful as they also reduce sound.
Space available
Magnetic rowing machines come under the category of gym equipment and need quite a bit of space in your home. You will need to measure both your available space, the machine, and do the math required so that the fit isn’t tight or awkward. Usually 5 to 8 feet in length, these machines fold up and come around 3 to 4 feet, which is an excellent space-saving feature.
Design
To guarantee comfort whilst using the machine, there are a couple features you can keep an eye out for. Foam-padded handlebars, anti-slip foot pedals with adjustable velcro straps, and a cushioned and contoured seat can elevate comfort and help maintain good form. It also goes without saying that the more resistance levels on a machine, the better as people of varying fitness levels can benefit from it. You can also check for an LCD tracker, phone and tablet holder, and front wheels for easy transportation.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shreya Vishwanathan, is a health and fitness enthusiast. She has the best tips on staying healthy with new and interesting workouts. She compiled the list of top magnetic rowing machines after deep research and checking user reviews and feedback on trusted forums and brand websites. These machines are great at burning calories and building endurance and stamina. You can have an entire body workout at your home with these low-maintenance rowing machines. How does a magnetic rowing machine work? With the help of a magnetic break in the flywheel for resistance, these rowers can be adjusted to a level you are comfortable with. Are magnetic rowing machines a good workout? Yes, magnetic rowers make for an excellent full body low-impact workout as they target major muscle groups to improve endurance, strength, and overall fitness. Are hydraulic or magnetic rowing machines better? Hydraulic machines are a good option if you’re looking for something affordable but you might have to compromise on having a no-noise experience. Magnetic rowers give you the effect of actually rowing on water and engage all your major muscle groups. Are magnetic rowers better than water rowers? Both machines are smooth in operation but magnetic rowers are a go-to for people that like noise-free equipment. Can you lose belly fat on a rowing machine? Yes, magnetic rowing machines strengthen your core and burn a lot of calories just like other forms of cardio. Over time with a balanced diet and consistent exercise, you can see a reduction in belly fat. Is a rowing machine better than a treadmill? Yes. A treadmill helps you lose fat, while a rowing machine burns calories and builds your muscles and core strength. Therefore, rowing machines are better than treadmills as they are multi-utility exercise partners. What is the difference between magnetic and water rowing machines? A water rowing machine uses water to create resistance, whereas a magnetic rower uses magnetic currents to develop resistance. Magnetic rowers offer more manual control with adjustable resistance levels, unlike water rowers. Also, water rowing machines are noisier than magnetic rowers.
