8 Best Rowing Machines Under $500 in 2024

Rowing machines are versatile pieces of cardio equipment designed to simulate the feeling of rowing on water. They provide a full-body cardio and conditioning workout from the comfort of your own home, especially in your lower body muscles.

They can be quite expensive to purchase depending on the added features and resistance system. I’ve reviewed the best rowing machines under $500 below to help you choose if you’re on a budget. 

Top 8 Best Rowing Machines Under $500 Reviewed

1. Sunny Health & Fitness High Weight Magnetic Rower – Top Pick Dual Resistance Magnetic Rowing Machine
2. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Water Rower – Runner Up Best Water Rowing Machine
3. Pooboo Magnetic Rowing Machine – Budget Pick
4. YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine – Premium Pick
5. JKANGFIT Rowing Machine
6. Fitness Reality Magnetic Rowing Machine – Best with Dual Rowing Handles
7. Sunny Health & Fitness Hydro Water Rowing Machine
8. CIRCUIT FITNESS Rowing Machine

Product	Total	Price/ Quality	Design	Comfort	Portability	Adjustability	Durability
SH&F High Weight Magnetic Row	59.5	10	10	9.5	10	10	10
SH&F Magnetic Water Rower	58.5	10	10	9.5	10	9.5	9.5
Pooboo	57.5	9.5	10	9.5	9.5	10	9
Yosuda	57	10	9.5	9.5	9.5	9.5	9
Jkangfit	56.5	9	9.5	9.5	9.5	10	9
Fitness Reality	55	8.5	9	9.5	9.5	9.5	9
SH&F Hydro Water	55	9	9	9.5	9	9.5	9
Circuit Fitness	54.5	9	8.5	9.5	9.5	9	9

1. Sunny Health & Fitness High Weight Magnetic Rower – Top Pick

Founded in 2002, Sunny Health & Fitness is an affordable lifestyle brand. They want a quality workout experience and a healthy lifestyle to be available to anyone who wants it regardless of budget.

By providing high-quality, affordable exercise equipment, their mission is to make fitness accessible to everyone.

• Dimensions: 92″ L x 20.5″ W x 32″ H
• Frame Weight: 75.8 lbs
• Resistance System: Magnetic Flywheel
• Display: Digital Monitor
• Slide Rail Length: 46.5″
• Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
• Additional Features: Floor Stabilizers, Transportation Wheels, Foldable Design
• Warranty: 3-year Structural Frame, 180-days Other Parts and Components

The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rower is a fully-programmable rowing machine that uses a built-in performance monitor with seven workout programs, including 4 customizable, 2 challenge, and 1 recovery mode. This gives you great freedom over your rowing workout and allows you to monitor your progress as you row. The digital meter also tracks distance, rowing strokes, and calories burned.

The 75.8-pound frame is made from a combination of aluminum and plastic and can support a max user weight of 300 pounds. This is a good standard for most budget rowing machines and enough to support normal gym use. The frame measures 92″ L x 20.5″ W x 32″ H when assembled and 43″ L X 20.5″ W X 60.5″ H when folded up to give you multiple storage options as a compact cardio unit.

The rower operates using an 11-pound flywheel, with 16 levels of magnetic resistance to choose from. For a budget rower, this is an excellent amount of resistance levels, with the magnetic flywheel operating quietly making the rower suitable for quieter home environments.

Underneath the frame, the floor stabilizers keep the unit from rocking around. The built-in transportation wheels allow you to move the rower around your home with little trouble.

2. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Water Rower – Runner-Up

• Dimensions: 77.2" L x 18.9" W x 44.1" H
• Frame Weight: 73.6 lbs
• Resistance System: Water/ Magnetic
• Display: Large Performance Monitor
• Slide Rail Length: 46.9"
• Weight Capacity: 275 lbs
• Additional Features: Transportation Wheels, Device Holder, Foldable Design
• Warranty: 3-year Structural Frame, 180-days Other Parts and Components

The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Water Rower uses 16 water blades to closely simulate the feeling of rowing on water. The dynamic resistance system gets harder as you try to row harder, much like it would in a natural water setting. This allows you to challenge yourself according to how you row rather than just picking a suitable resistance level. It’s my runner-up water rowing machine under $500.

Alongside this, the water tank has been angled at 60 degrees allowing the blades to dig deeper just like they would in the water. If you want an extra challenge, the rower offers 16 levels of magnetic resistance via the turn dial at the front of the frame which combines with the hydro system to offer a unique dual-system model. 

The durable aluminum and plastic rower frame supports up to 275 pounds of max user weight. This is on the smaller side but still plenty enough to support most average rowing athletes. The compact frame measures 77.2" L X 18.9" W X 44.1" H as a functional unit and 44.1" L x 18.9" W x 77.2" H when folded up in its space-saving form.

At the front of the frame, the digital monitor tracks a huge amount of metrics including distance, time, heart rate, strokes, and temperature. Above the monitor, the device holder allows you to place your mobile device or tablet above to follow along with your favorite workout.

Added comfort features include padded handlebars, a molded seat, and transportation wheels to help you move the rower to different locations. The rubber frame feet help to stop the frame from moving and protect your home gym floor from damage.

3. Pooboo Magnetic Rowing Machine – Budget Pick

Pooboo is a professional sports brand that aims to help others enjoy sports and fitness by manufacturing easy-to-use equipment and accessories. The brand motto is ‘Be Zeal, Be Self!’.

• Dimensions: 83.0'' L x 21.2” W x 31.8” H
• Frame Weight: 61.9 lbs
• Resistance System: Magnetic Flywheel
• Display: LCD
• Weight Capacity: 360 lbs
• Additional Features: Foldable Design, Kinomap Compatible, Strength Mode, Adjustable Tablet Holder, Transportation Wheels
• Warranty: 1-year Parts Replacement

Pooboo has designed a multifunctional rower that can be used as a cable resistance unit and a traditional rowing machine. To place the rower in ‘strength mode’, hook the handlebar below the seat and attach the handles. With the strength mode, you can perform a range of upper and lower body exercises including bent-over rows, bicep curls, and squats. Besides, it comes at a fantastic price point, offering excellent value for money if you're looking to save some cash. It’s my top-pick budget magnetic rowing machine under $500.

The alloy steel frame weighs 61.9 pounds and can support up to 360 pounds of use weight which is pretty impressive for a budget rowing unit. When folded up, the unit measures just 21.2" L x 3.9" W x 4.5" H to give you plenty of storage options when it’s not in use.

The PooBoo rower uses a magnetic flywheel resistance mechanism, with their new model having been updated to include 14 different difficulty levels. The flywheel operates smoothly and quietly, making the machine suitable for smaller home environments where you may need to exercise around others.

The LCD monitor displays time, distance, rowing count, and calories. It also features a countdown mode which allows you to preset your workout goal before starting. Above the monitor, the large device holder lets you connect your phone or tablet for your favorite workout or movie whilst rowing.

A stand-out feature of the monitor is the new Bluetooth compatibility meaning you’re able to connect the Kinomap app to fully customize your workout experience.

Other features include transport wheels, rubber feet to protect your floor, and non-slip pedals. Kinomap states that assembly takes 30-45 minutes and offers a 1-year parts replacement with each purchase.

4. YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine – Premium Pick

YOSUDA aims to make fashionable fitness products that perform well and look good. They want to help everyone get into healthy fitness habits by providing excellent products with innovative designs.

• Dimensions: ‎74.8" L x 27.55" H
• Frame Weight: 60 lbs
• Resistance System: Magnetic Flywheel
• Display: LCD
• Slide Rail Length: 49.2"
• Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
• Additional Features: Transportation Wheels, Tablet Holder, Foldable Design
• Warranty: 2-years Replacement Parts, 1-month Full Refund Return

At first glance, the YOSUDA rower looks great, with an orange and black design that features orange arrows pointing down the slide rail. The rower frame is made from alloy steel and finished with a protective black powder coating. It weighs 60 pounds and can support up to 350 pounds of max user capacity. If you’re a taller rower, the 49.2" slide rail offers plenty of length for users up to 6.6 ft tall. The rail also folds up to the flywheel housing offering a footprint of 28.7" L x 19.3" W.

YOSUDA has used a precision magnetic drive system with a 10-pound flywheel that offers 16 levels of resistance for beginners to professionals. It operates at <30 decibels making it well-suited for quieter environments. To choose a suitable workout level, twist the frame at the front of the rower.

The large LCD monitor at the front of the frame features an easy-to-read display, with metrics such as time, row count, calories, and distance given throughout your workout.

A tablet holder is situated nicely above the monitor so it doesn’t get in the way of the display whilst you follow along to a workout or movie. Other added convenience features include a reinforced nylon rope pull, non-slip handlebars, frame balance regulators, and transport wheels.

5. JKANGFIT Rowing Machine

Founded in 2010, JKANGFIT aims to put product quality and customer satisfaction first. The brand focuses on product development, quality control, and good customer service.

They manufacture indoor fitness equipment including exercise bikes, rowing machines, and ellipticals.

• Dimensions: 70.8" L x 16.5" W x 31.5" H
• Frame Weight: 60 lbs (Package Weight)
• Resistance System: Magnetic Flywheel
• Display: LCD
• Slide Rail Length: 45.3"
• Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
• Additional Features: Professional Slant Board, Strength Mode, Transport Wheels, Kinomap App Support, Foldable Design
• Warranty: 1-year

The JKANGFIT rower is another multi-functional cardio machine that doubles as a strength training unit. Pull the rowing cable under the seat and through the loops for a range of cable conditioning exercises.

A stand-out feature of the JKANGFIT rower is the stretching slant boards built-in at the end of the frame. These allow you to perform a suitable warm-up before you begin to row.

The alloy steel frame supports up to 350 pounds of user weight and has a compact footprint of 70.8" L x 16.5" W x 31.5" H as a functional unit. The 45.3" slide rail folds up towards the flywheel and can be moved around easily with the transport wheels at the front.

The magnetic flywheel drive system has 14 resistance levels to choose from and provides a smooth, silent exercise experience.

At the front of the frame, the LCD Monroe features a phone holder and can be adjusted by twisting the side knob for better viewing as you row. It displays time, row count, distance, and calories burned. It’s Bluetooth compatible meaning it supports the Kinomap workout app for a more immersive, personalized experience.

The wider seat has a curved design to increase user comfort and improve your workout performance. The non-slip handlebar is easy to grip as it’s wrapped in soft foam that also absorbs sweat as you work.

6. Fitness Reality 4000MR Magnetic Rowing Machine – Best with Dual Rowing Handles

Fitness Reality aims to make new products using customer feedback as guidance. Their top priority is to help you reach your fitness goals whether you’re a stay-at-home mum or fitness professional.

• Dimensions: ‎72" L x 25" W x 51.5" H
• Frame Weight: 116.4 lbs
• Resistance System: Magnetic Flywheel
• Display: 5"LCD
• Slide Rail Length: 38"
• Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
• Additional Features: Foldable, Dual Independent Rowing Handles, Adjustable Floor Stabilizers, Transport Wheels
• Warranty: 5-year Frame, 3-year Parts, 2-year Electronics

The Fitness Reality 4000MR Magnetic Rower uses dual independent rowing handles, offering a different workout experience. Compared to the traditional horizontal handle and cable system, the dual rowing handles allow you to use each arm independently to reduce the chance of muscular imbalances.

The alloy steel frame is on the heavier side at 116.4 pounds but has built-in transport wheels and folds up to allow easier transportation. The frame measures ‎72" L x 25" W x 51.5" H which is taller than most traditional rower options.

At the front of the frame, the magnetic flywheel resistance system offers 16 different rowing difficulty levels from easy to very difficult. Alongside the dual handles, this provides a suitable challenge for even experienced rowing athletes.

The large monitor is another huge selling point of the 4000MR. It features a 5" backlit LCD screen that displays distance, time, RPM, calories burned, and row count. Use the program buttons at the bottom to choose from 10 pre-set and 5 customizable rowing workouts.

7. Sunny Health & Fitness Hydro Water Rowing Machine

• Dimensions: 70.5" L x 17.5" W x 33.1" H
• Frame Weight: 56.8 Lbs
• Resistance System: Hydro Water
• Display: LCD
• Slide Rail Length: 47.2"
• Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
• Additional Features: Transportation Wheels, Floor Stabilizers, Device Holder, Dynamic Resistance System
• Warranty: 3-year Structural Frame, 180-days Other Parts and Components

The Sunny Health & Fitness Hydro Rowing Machine uses water to provide a dynamic, more natural rowing experience. The water tank gives you six different fill options - the higher you fill it the larger the resistance level.

Alongside this, the 47.2" slide rail on the hydro rower has been ergonomically designed to give you a more fluid rowing motion. The lightweight frame weighs only 56.8 pounds and can support 300 pounds of user weight. Unfortunately, it isn’t foldable which might be a problem if you’re looking to store it away often.

Alongside displaying usual workout metrics, the monitor is Bluetooth-compatible with the Sunny Health & Fitness workout app. With this, you have access to hundreds of fitness programs and trainer-led workouts. You’re also able to track your progress, set goals, and join a like-minded community.

The rower has protective rubber feet under the frame and transportation wheels allowing you to slide the unit to different room positions.

8. CIRCUIT FITNESS Rowing Machine

CIRCUIT FITNESS manufacture and sell a wide range of high-quality health and fitness equipment including rowers, bikes, weight benches, and power racks. Their equipment has all been specially designed for home gym use.

• Dimensions: 71" L x 18.5" W x 38" H
• Frame Weight: 72 lbs
• Resistance System: Magnetic Flywheel
• Display: LCD
• Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
• Additional Features: Kinomap App Compatible, Device Holder, Foldable Design
• Warranty: 2-years

The CIRCUIT FITNESS rower comes in two models allowing you to choose between the standard version and the version with BlueTooth compatibility. Unlike the dial used on most rowing machines, it uses a lever mechanism under the monitor.

Constructed from a combination of alloy steel and protective plastic housing, the frame can support a max weight of 300 pounds. It’s fairly compact with a footprint of 71" L x 18.5" W x 38" H and easily foldable by pressing the knob at the side of the frame to bring the rail upwards.

The 9-pound magnetic flywheel is on the lighter side meaning it might not be suitable if you're looking for a high-resistance workout.

At the front, the LCD monitor displays your speed, time, distance, and calories burned. You also have a device holder above and Bluetooth compatibility with the slightly more expensive model options.

Added comfort features include an injection molded seat and non-slip foot pedals.

Budget Rowing Machines Under $500 vs Expensive Models

Both classes of rowing machines are designed to give you a convenient ‘on the water’ rowing experience. Differences exist in adjustment options and overall functionality which I’ll go into more detail about below:

1. Adjustability 

Expensive rowing machines tend to offer slightly more specialist adjustment options that are designed for elite athletes looking to add an extra percentage to their rowing performance.

Adjustment options may include foot placement straps, rowing handle materials, rail height, and console position. For most normal gym goers, budget rowing machines provide exactly what you need for a comfortable workout experience.

2. Functionality

Expensive rowers tend to offer more monitor functionality which usually gives you a more immersive rowing experience. BlueTooth app compatibility, Wi-fi functions, integrated speakers, and on-demand technique feedback are just some of the extra options that you can expect when paying more.

However, this doesn’t mean that budget ones don’t offer this - some of the choices I’ve picked above offer many of these functions for under $500.

3. Resistance Mechanism

Rowing machines tend to use either magnetic or hydro systems to provide resistance. Hydro water rowing machines tend to be more expensive due to the higher manufacturing costs and also cost more to maintain.

Budget and expensive rowing machines use both systems, with price differences usually depending on added features and other things such as brand marketing.

4. Warranty 

The warranty offered on expensive models tends to be much higher as the brands have allowed for possible part replacements and labor at the initial price point.

Budget rowing machines under $500 still offer decent warranties, with the length determined by the brand.

How to Pick the Best Rowing Machine Under $500?

Whether you’re looking for a water or an air rowing machine under $500, consider these main factors below to make the best choice for you.

1. Construction Quality and Dimensions

Even with a budget rowing machine under $500, you should still expect the frame to be constructed from a quality metal such as aluminum. If you’re wanting to use it outdoors, check it’s finished in a protective powder coating.

Most manufacturers test the max weight limit of their product and list it on the quick specs. Make sure to check it if you’re a larger-sized gym goer.

In terms of dimensions, does the rower you’re purchasing fit into your chosen gym space? How easy is it to move around? Does it fold up? Does it have transport wheels? Consider all these questions first.

2. Versatility 

Versatility refers to the different functions the rowing machine can suitably perform. If you want to use the rower for banded upper body exercises, some of the machines I’ve reviewed above have the functionality to be used in ‘strength mode’.

3. Resistance Mechanism

The resistance mechanism used in the rower can make or break the workout for some athletes. Magnetic flywheel systems provide quiet resistance and are easy to maintain but can take a while to get used to if you’ve rowed a lot on the water.

Hydro-water systems operate using a dynamic resistance mechanism that increases the difficulty as you pull harder. This simulates the feeling of rowing on the water much more closely and would be your best choice if you want a similar feeling to the real thing.

4. Console Functionality

Whilst not needed for a successful rowing workout, increased console functionality can add to your overall workout experience and improve your adherence to the workout plan.

If you want tangible workout feedback as you row, look for a console that displays metrics including speed, distance, time, heart rate, and calories burned.

Some rowers have Bluetooth functionality allowing you to link up to a workout app, providing a more immersive rowing experience.

Also, be sure to check the console layout and how easy the buttons are to press as you row.

How to Use a Rowing Machine 

Follow the tips below to use a rowing machine correctly and safely.

1. Pick the correct rowing spot - Before you start rowing, find a suitable spot in your home gym space. Look for somewhere that's well-ventilated with a flat floor. If you don't want to be disturbed, find somewhere that’s quiet in your home.

2. Adjust your machine - Make sure your feet are securely against the foot pads without overhanging or coming up. Tighten the straps to secure your feet in place. Change the monitor position until it's at a suitable height so you’re able to see it throughout the row without straining or moving your head too much.

3. Practice the technique elements - Break the row down into separate elements:

1. Start with your legs bent and arms extended whilst you grab the handle. Maintain a straight back whilst keeping your core engaged and shoulders forward.

2. Drive your legs back until they are straight. Perform a hip hinge and lean back using your torso. Pull your arms back by bending at your elbows.

3. Straighten your arms again and hinge forward from the hips. Bend your knees as the handle passes over them and return to the starting position.

4. Bring the technique together - Bring these three elements together to perform the correct rowing technique. Practice these elements before finding a workout routine you enjoy and want to progress at. Keep hydrated and record your workouts to progress.

FAQ

Is It Possible to Find a Water Rowing Machine Under $500?

Yes - Multiple suitable water rowing machines are available to purchase under $500, offering great value for money. They do however cost more to maintain compared with traditional ones. 

How Much Should You Pay for a Rowing Machine?

The amount of money you should spend depends on several factors. Firstly, think about your budget. Once you have this, decide what you need the rowing machine for. Expect to pay around $500 or under for a decent entry-level rowing machine. If you’re looking for extra convenience features, the price can reach $1000 or above.

Conclusion

Budget rowing machines under $500 are built to last and offer a wide range of extra features. Some of my choices above use a hydro resistance mechanism meaning you don’t need to spend large amounts of money for a water rowing machine.

The Sunny Health & Fitness High Weight Magnetic Rower is my top-pick budget choice, with 16 resistance levels and seven workout options to choose from. It scored the highest total out of my top eight choices.

What do you think of budget rowing machines? Can you notice many differences? Do you enjoy the indoor rowing experience? Tell me about them in the comments below! 

Also read:

• Types of Rowing Machines
• Best Foldable Rowing Machines
• Rowing Machine Benefits
• What Muscles Does a Rowing Machine Work
• How Long Should I Row For
• Water Rower vs Magnetic Rower
• Rowing Machine vs Stationary Bike
• Best Rower Under 1000

References:

1. Does a rowing machine help lose belly fat? // healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/benefits-of-rowing-machine#Rowing-FAQs
2. Thigh Muscle Activities in Elite Rowers During On-Water Rowing // ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/49638287
3. Acute Comparative Effect of Foam Rolling and Static Stretching on Range of Motion in Rowers // MDPI: https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/13/7/3631
4. A kinematic comparison of ergometer and on-water rowing // SageJournals: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/036354658901700310?journalCode=ajsb
5. Magnetic Vs Water Rower: Machine & Resistance Differences // GarageGymPro: https://garagegympro.com/magnetic-vs-water-rower/
6. Foot-stretcher angle does affect rowing ergometer performance // ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Duncan-Reid-3/publication/283517540
7. Effect of Goal-Setting and Visual Feedback on Rower Performance on a Rowing Machine // FloridaTech: https://repository.fit.edu/etd/121/