Written by Steve Theunissen | ISSA: CPT & Fitness Nutrition
Fact checked by Tyler DiGiovanni, BSBM
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If you're after a single piece of cardio equipment for your home, you can't do better than a rowing machine. Unlike many other options, rowing is a closed-chain exercise, making it easy on your joints. In addition, a rowing session engages 80% of your body's muscles, so you get an anaerobic/aerobic workout simultaneously.
But what if you don't have room for a standard rowing machine?
Fortunately, some excellent compact home rowing machines are designed for small spaces. In this best compact rowers review, we review the six best of them. We'll also provide a comprehensive compact home rowing machine buyers guide and answer typical small rowing machines for home questions.
In this article you can expect:
- 6 Best Compact Rowers
- What To Look For When Buying a Compact Rower
- Compact Rower FAQs
- Summary
6 Best compact rowing machines
- Best Overall: Aviron Strong Series Rower
- For HIIT: Sole SR550
- Portable Machine: Horizon Oxford 3
- Premium Pick: NordicTrack RW900
- Budget Pick: Sunny Health SMART Rowing Machine
- Most Online Classes: Echelon Row-s
SFS Pick
Aviron Strong
SFS HIIT Pick
Sole SR550
SFS Portable Pick
Horizon Oxford 3
1. Best Overall Compact Rowing Machine: Aviron Strong Series Rower
Aviron is one of the leaders in the emerging interactive rower market. They offer two rowers; Strong and Strong Go. The Aviron Strong Series Rower costs a few hundred dollars more than the Go, has a stronger build, and has a higher weight limit.
This rowing machine offers both magnetic and air resistance. In magnetic mode, you can work through 16 resistance levels, while the air resistance system includes a damper to control the airflow resistance.
The 22-inch HD screen is the ideal display size for using the premium-level subscription-dependent offers. In addition, it provides 4-way pivoting, allowing you to position the screen for off-the-rower workouts. That means you can use the awesome interactive workouts accessed through the membership, which costs $29 monthly.
Among the choices available through your membership are the Pros vs. Joe's challenge, guided programs, competition challenges, power play, and even 80s arcade games in retro style. Virtual and performance workouts are also included.
The Aviron Strong is built to enhance user comfort with features like 4-way adjustable footplates, rotating handles, and an ergonomically designed seat.
The Aviron rower is an excellent option if you're looking for a rowing machine that can handle challenging interval training sessions while opening up a world of interactive entertainment and allowing you to switch between magnetic and air resistance.
The dimensions of the Aviron Strong are 84" L x 27" W x 48" H in use and 35" L x 27" W x 83" H when stored in an upright position. The total weight of this rowing machine is 114 lbs.
The combination of interactivity, solid construction, and excellent functionality make the Aviron Strong rower the best compact rowing machine for home use on the current market.
Pros
- Excellent interactivity through membership
- 507 lb max user weight
- Air + Magnetic resistance
- Upright storage
Cons
- Larger than other rowers on this list
A modern, compact and ergonomic rower design coupled with Aviron’s unique game-led software approach, the new Strong Series Rower provides a full body home workout experience that you can’t get anywhere else...
2. Best Compact Rowing Machine For HIIT: Sole SR550
HIIT training and rowing machines are a great match. But they demand a more robust and gritty quality rower than your standard model. Enter the Sole SR550: the best compact indoor rower for high-intensity interval training. With its 400 lb maximum user weight, this is one of the strongest home user rowers we've encountered. The Sole SR550 also features a higher-than-normal seat and rail height, making it easy to get on and off.
The Sole SR550 is a hybrid rower, combining an air rower and magnetic rowing machine to deliver an impressively smooth and steady rowing action. There are 16 magnetic resistance levels, allowing you to crank up the intensity for HIIT and infinite resistance when training in air resistance mode. In addition, resistance adjustments are built into the handle for easy control.
There are ten built-in programs on the SR550, and you can subscribe to the Sole Fitness Studio for a wide array of classes and instruction. In case the built-in programs are doing it for you, you can use our best fat-torching HIIT workouts. The screen size is 10.1 inches which is impressive for indoor rowing machines. The monitor is functional, providing all necessary data analysis. This is a foldable machine, but the folding mechanism is a bit tricky.
The dimensions of the Sole SR550 are 52" high x 97" long x 19" wide. The weight of the machine is 106 lbs.
Pros
- Max user weight of 400 lbs
- High seat position
- Air/ magnetic resistance
Cons
- Quite difficult to fold
Make exercise more enjoyable with the Sole SR550 rower, featuring an ultra smooth air and magnetic resistance motion to create a realistic 'on the water' sensation...
3. Best Portable Compact Rowing Machine: Horizon Oxford 3
The Horizon Oxford 3 has one of the most compact footprints of any machine we analyzed, with dimensions of 80.7 long x 24.5" wide x 43" high. The max user weight is a respectable 350 lbs, which speaks to the frame's durability. The premium aluminum rail suits an inseam length of 36 inches, so it will be a bit limiting for people over 6 feet tall.
The Oxford 3 is a silent magnetic resistance rower with ten resistance levels. In addition, this machine has five onboard workouts, adjustable cushioned footrests, an ergonomic seat, and a lifetime frame warranty (with three years on electronics and 12 months on parts and labor).
Two integrated transportation wheels make this a relatively easy machine to move around. However, at 121 lbs. It is among the heaviest compact rowers for home use that we looked at. The monitor has a 5.4 backlit LCD screen and readouts of your basic workout metrics. You also get Polar Wireless heartrate connectivity and ViaFit connectivity, which allows you to connect to the internet and automatically share your workout data with various fitness apps and tracking tools. Overall this is one of the best magnetic rowing machines on the market.
Pros
- Compact dimensions
- Silent magnetic operation
- Solid construction
Cons
- Tall people may not get a full rowing extension
Now you can get a transformative workout that fits your body comfortably and your home beautifully. Discover ergonomics that accommodate your unique shape and your natural movements for...
4. Best Premium Compact Rowing Machine: NordicTrack RW900
The NordicTrack RW900 is a silent magnetic resistance rower with a 22 HD" tilting touchscreen. This folding rowing machine is set up to work with the iFit app. Your purchase of the RW900 comes with a 30-day subscription to iFit.
The RW900 rowing machine is designed for portability and movement. It measures 82" L x 22" W x 54" H. Wheels mounted on the machine's front make it easy to move around. The machine will also fold to allow you to store it in a cupboard or under a bed.
Your purchase of the RW900 comes with a 30-day family iFit membership. This gives you access to interactive workouts from all over the world as well as personal workout plans. That means you can row on some of the world's most famous and scenic lakes without leaving home.
There are 26 resistance levels on this machine. The 22-inch touchscreen pivots in all directions so you can follow along with off-the-rower iFit workouts.
The RW900 can support a max user weight of 250 lbs. That is pretty low for a rower in this price range. Throw in the fact that the RW900 is a folding rower, and the durability becomes questionable, as folding rowers are less durable around the hinge point.
Pros
- Foldable
- 30-day iFit subscription
- Two forms of resistance
- Large rotating display screen
- Quick-adjust pedals
Cons
- Weight capacity only 250 lbs
- Frame and labor warranty too short
Row around the world with full-body, low-impact workouts with SMR™ technology for a smooth, quiet ride. Featuring immersive workouts on iFit, make the most out of your sessions with...
5. Best Budget Compact Rowing Machine: Sunny Health SMART Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health RW5941 SMART Rowing Machine is a budget friendly rowing machine that you can pick up for less than $500. It's a magnetic rower with 16 resistance levels to cater to all fitness levels and allow for progressive resistance as you get fitter. That is pretty impressive for a budget rowing machine. Floor plates also allow you to do resistance training exercises such as upright rows.
The RW5941 features Sunny's unique Volute spring system to enhance the smooth, fluid rowing action that it provides. With dimensions of 76.8" x 22.8" x 22.8", this is an excellent option if you've got a tiny workout space. Despite these compact numbers, the rail length inseam is 41.3", long enough for a 6'5" person to get a full extension with each row.
It only weighs 52 lbs, less than half of many of the other rowers on this list. That makes it easy to move around but also means it is not as stable as heavier machines. However, it does have adjustable levelers to help you get a level surface.
The seat of this rower is constructed of high-density foam but is not ergonomically designed for a contoured fit. As expected on a budget rower, the RW5941 has a basic but functional monitor. It keeps track of your time, calories, and total count, but not distance.
The Sunny Smart Rower folds for storage so that it is about half of the usable length. It also features a belt drive system, making it quieter than the chain drive system. The max user weight on this rowing machine is 285 lbs.
For other budget-conscious rowing machines, check out our list of the best rowers under $500.
Pros
- Smooth, quiet resistance
- 16 levels of magnetic resistance
- Only weighs 52 pounds
Cons
- No built-in workouts
- Does not measure your distance
Cycle along with Sunny Health & Fitness expert trainers on the Sunny Health & Fitness SunnyFit App! Connect your preferred mobile device to access the vast amount of...
6. Best Online Classes Compact Rowing Machine: Echelon Row-s
The Echelon Row-s is a foldable magnetic resistance rower with 32 resistance levels. By signing up to the Echelon app, you'll have access to live and on-demand classes 24/7. There are, in fact, 40 daily live classes, so you'll be catered to no what part of the world you live in. On top of that, there's a library of more than 15,000 on-demand classes. Echelon has a stable of 30 world-class instructors to lead these workouts.
Access to the Echelon App costs $39.99 per month.
An immersive 22" HD touchscreen brings the workouts to life. Better yet, the screen can be flipped 180 degrees for off-the-rower workouts. The magnetic resistance system is near silent and operates very fluidly, with no discernible catching or stuttering during the drive. Handlebar-based controls allow you to adjust the resistance without letting go of the handles.
The Echelon-S provides a comfortable ride with an ergonomic seat, long, slightly angled handles, and extra large footpads with a strap-locing system. The maximum user weight on this machine is 300 lbs.
Pros
- 22" HD touchscreen
- Smooth magnetic resistance
- 40 live classes daily through the app
Cons
- The app subscription is comparatively expensive
Enjoy a full-body, low-impact workout with the Echelon Row-s Connected Rowing Machine. Echelons most advanced rower yet is equipped with a new, 22” rotating HD screen, making it easy...
What to look for when buying a compact rowing machine:
Even the most compact indoor rowing machine needs to do more than fit into your confined space; it must also be functional, comfortable, and durable. Here are eight things you need to consider when you're in the market for the best small-space rowing machine for home use.
1. Build Quality
Longer lifespans are associated with high-quality materials. Look for a compact home rowing machine with steel or aluminum frames for increased longevity. Verify the rowing machine's weight capacity. The weight limit is a good indicator of the overall build quality.
A comfortable, preferably padded seat that slides easily along the rail is necessary. Handlebars should have a good grip and be ergonomic. Footrests foot pedals should be secure, adjustable, and equipped with straps to keep your feet secure during exercise.
Although it is frequently disregarded, the noise level should also be considered. Some rowing machines, particularly those based on air resistance, can be rather noisy. Consider a quieter model, such as a magnetic or water-resistance rower, if you live in an apartment or if noise is a problem.
2. Footprint
The footprint or physical dimensions are essential to consider when you've got limited space for your compact row machine. This factor impacts how comfortable you feel, how effective your workouts are, and how well the machine fits into your own home gym.
The rail length dictates how far back the seat may be pulled. Therefore, a rowing machine with a more extended rail will be necessary if you are over 6 feet tall. Although compact rowing machines are often smaller than regular ones, the range of motion shouldn't be compromised, especially for taller users. Before purchasing, always review the specifications and, if practical, try the equipment to ensure it fits your height.
A quality compact rower machine should permit a full range of motion, enabling you to extend your legs and pull your arms back entirely. This guarantees a more efficient and comfortable workout. The rail length and machine design play a significant role in determining the range of motion.
If possible, check the maximum inseam length of the compact rowing machine for home use you're considering. Inseam length refers to the distance from your crotch to the floor when standing in inches. An inseam length of 38 inches will be sufficient for most people.
Measure the space you have in your home before making a purchase. Remember to account for the space you'll need around the machine and its length when in use. Even the smaller models of some machines can be rather long (typically over 7 feet). Ensure you have appropriate storage space by considering the machine's dimensions when folded (if it is foldable).
An easy-to-store rowing machine with a vertical configuration and standing upright when not in use takes up less space on the floor. Consider these models if space is a significant limitation.
3. Type of resistance
Lower-priced low-profile rowing machines will tend to be powered by hydraulic or magnetic resistance. While these both have the advantage of providing a set resistance and allowing the user to adjust that resistance, they are not as smooth, natural, or intense as water and air resistance. Hydraulic resistance is the quietest method, but the pistons are prone to overheating and often produce a jerky, interrupted rowing stroke.
A magnetic resistance lightweight rowing machine for small spaces is smoother than a hydraulic one but is dependent on the resistance potential of the size of the flywheel. Budget rowers often have a relatively light flywheel, limiting the maximum resistance. Instead, look for a perimeter-weighted flywheel that is heavier on the outer edges of the flywheel to maximize the resistance potential.
Air and water resistance provide the most significant intensity potential as the speed of your row controls your resistance. Look for an air rower with a damper control that allows you to control the airflow into the fan.
4. Use
How frequently do you intend to use your rowing machine for small spaces? If you row daily, you'll want a device that can handle heavy use to ensure durability and longevity.
Do you intend to perform high-intensity interval training workouts on your tiny rowing machine? Then you'll need a machine with a solid frame that won't jump around at high intensity. It will also need a high enough max resistance to allow you to sprint at max intensity.
Check out our full article if you want to know exactly which muscles a rowing machine works.
5. Features
Here are some key features to look out for when shopping for the best compact home rowing machine :
Performance Monitor/Display: The monitor helps you track your workout data, including calories burned, time, distance rowed, and strokes per minute. Some cutting-edge monitors can also show heart rate, power output in watts, and pre-set workout programs. Interactive rowers require a high-quality display that gives you a quality viewing experience when following along with the onscreen workout.
Pulse Monitor: Some rowers can link to heart rate monitors, providing real-time information about your heart rate while exercising. This is especially helpful if you're going to be training in accordance with heart rate zones.
Bluetooth: Some rowing machines have Bluetooth connectivity and app compatibility, enabling you to monitor progress, compete in virtual competitions, or row in simulated settings. This can add interest and enjoyment to your training.
Ergonomic Design: Look for a rower with adjustable footrests, a well-padded seat, and ergonomic grips. These elements may appear insignificant, yet they significantly impact your comfort and performance when working out.
Transportation Wheels: This feature will be helpful if you want to move your rower around regularly. This is especially important for tiny rowers that are made to be portable and pack conveniently.
Foldability: If you're short on room, foldability is crucial for a tiny rower. A foldable rowing machine will be considerably simpler to store when not in use.
6. Weight Capacity
A compact rower's max weight limit or capacity largely determines how safe the machine is. A machine that can't hold your weight can malfunction, resulting in injury. The higher the max user weight, the more durable a rower is, and it performs better when used at high intensity.
Remember to account not just for your weight but also that of other potential users. As a general rule of thumb, the maximum user weight should be 50 lbs more than the heaviest.
The typical max user weight on compact rowers ranges between 220 and 300 lbs (10- to 136 kg). Some more expensive machines go up to 500 lbs.
7. Price
Set your budget before you start looking for a new rowing machine. To get a small rowing machine that is durable, reliable, performs smoothly, and provides rower comfort, you should expect to pay between $800-$1500. Interactive rowers will range from around $1800 to $3000.
8. Reviews
Verified user reviews are a valuable research tool for potential buyers of compact rowing machines. Look first at the average rating. A product average of 4 out of 5 stars or more is a good sign. However, a rower with a high rating but just a small number of reviews may not be as trustworthy as a product with a high rating and hundreds or thousands of reviews.
Search for reviews that offer specific, both positive and negative, input. These can help you learn more about the product's advantages and disadvantages. This is a warning sign if several customers express the same problems (such as parts breaking, pain while using, lousy customer service, etc.).
Reviews frequently include details about how easy it is to assemble, how well the customer service is, how quiet it is, how comfortable it is, and other factors. Reviews can also help you determine whether the rower fits your requirements. For instance, if you are taller, reviews from other tall users can offer insightful information.
Reviewers on websites like Amazon are marked as verified purchasers when they have purchased the product straight from the website. Therefore, these reviews are frequently thought to be more reliable. Although user reviews might offer insightful information, keep in mind that they are subjective and susceptible to the experiences and preferences of the reviewer.
Compact Rowing Machine FAQs
Is 30 minutes of rowing enough?
Whether or not 30 minutes of rowing is enough depends on your fitness level, the activity's intensity, and overall goals. Rowing for 30 minutes can improve your cardio fitness and help you lose weight. So, a half-hour rowing workout can be helpful if your goal is to improve your overall cardiovascular fitness, especially if you keep your intensity between moderate and high.
Thirty minutes might not be enough if your goal is to increase your strength or endurance. It could be essential to a more extensive fitness program that includes extra cardio workouts and weight training. We recommend combining interval training, where you alternate between higher intensity and rest times, to get the most out of a 30-minute rowing session.
What is the best at-home rowing machine?
The best at-home rowing machine depends on several things, such as your budget, resistance type, available space, desired features, and personal tastes. Here are three popular and well-rated rowing machines for home use.
- The Concept2 RowErg (formerly the Model D) is considered to be one of the best rowing machines because of its dependability, comfortable rowing action, and performance-tracking capabilities. It features a comfy seat, adjustable resistance, and a dependable performance monitor that records crucial stats.
- The WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine offers a natural rowing experience thanks to its innovative water resistance mechanism. It has a stylish wooden frame, easy operation, and silent operation.
- The Stamina ATS Air Rower provides dynamic air resistance for a smooth, fluid rowing experience. It is well-built, has adjustable resistance, and has a supportive seat. An LCD monitor is also included with the rowing machine to track your calories burned, time, and strokes.
How much are rowing machines?
Entry-level rowing machines typically range in price from $300 to $800. These machines have a maximum limited speed, few incline options, and relatively few built-in programs,
Mid-priced rowing machines cost between $800 and $1,500. They frequently provide extra features like adjustable resistance, ergonomic seating, and performance tracking. These machines often have a smoother rowing motion and better construction than entry-level standard rowing machines.
High-end rowing machines can cost up to $1,500 or more. However, a smart rowing machine with advanced features like water or air resistance systems, increased weight capabilities, interactive displays, and extra workout programs are frequently included. In addition, these devices frequently come with extended warranties, provide a more realistic rowing experience, and are built to last.
Are compact rowing machines as good as regular rowing machines?
Depending on your unique requirements and circumstances, compact rowing machines may or may not be as effective as standard ones but they will provide a full body workout. Compact rowers are made smaller and more space-efficient, making them appropriate for people needing portability or compact training space.
Despite their small size, many compact rowing machines offer a comparable range of motion, functionality, and resistance to standard rowing machines. However, it's essential to consider the maximum weight capacity as they may be lower than a standard machine.
The stability and durability of some compact rowing machines may be inferior to regular rowing machines. Be sure to read reading reviews, evaluate the build quality, and select a compact rowing machine from a respected company that offers stability, longevity, and a warranty.
Summary
A compact rowing machine represents an excellent fitness investment for small spaces. Rowing is one of the most joint-friendly, muscle-activating, calorie-burning, and heart-health-friendly workouts you can do. The best rowing machine for small spaces overall on the current market is the Aviron Strong Series Rower, with its 22-inch rotating HD screen, interactive programs, and hybrid magnetic/ air resistance system.
If you want to perform HIIT workouts, the best compact indoor rower is the Sole SR550, which features a massive 400 lb max user weight, a higher-than-standard seat, and sturdy construction for high-intensity rowing workouts.
Finally, if you're after the best rowing machine for small spaces that is portable and compact, look no further than the Horizon Oxford 3, featuring ten magnetic resistance levels, a smooth, quiet action, and five pre-loaded programs.
A modern, compact and ergonomic rower design coupled with Aviron’s unique game-led software approach, the new Strong Series Rower provides a full body home workout experience that you can’t get anywhere else...
Interested in more gym equipment? Check out our articles on the Best Magnetic Rowers and Best Elliptical Machines.
Steve Theunissen
Author