The 8 Best Compact Rowing Machines in 2024, Tested by Our Experts

While the best rowing machines can be excellent additions to any home gym, the reality is that not everyone has enough space to house these pieces of equipment. The best compact rowing machines, on the other hand, can help you make the most of your tight quarters with space-saving dimensions that can still deliver low-impact, full-body workout experiences.

When shopping for compact rowing machines, you’ll want to pay close attention to a few aspects beyond the product dimensions. Your resistance type, available programming, and machine’s weight capacity can all influence your workout experience. To help you find that suitable stroke setup, we’ve gotten hands-on with a wide range of rowers from the category’s best brands and consulted with our in-house team of experts to compile a list of our favorite compact rowing machines on the market today.

The 8 Best Compact Rowing Machines of 2024

• Best Compact Rowing Machine Overall: Hydrow Wave
• Best Compact Rowing Machine for Trainer-Led Workouts: NordicTrack RW900
• Best Compact Rowing Machine for Cross-Training: ProForm Pro 750R
• Most Stylish Compact Rowing Machine: Ergatta Rower
• Best Compact Rowing Machine for Streaming: Aviron Strong Series Rower
• Best Compact Rowing Machine for HIIT Workouts: Concept2 RowERG
• Best Foldable Compact Rowing Machine: Echelon Row-S
• Best Budget Compact Rowing Machine: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5639SMART

How We Tested and Chose the Best Compact Rowing Machines

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best compact rowing machines, we got hands-on with 15 different machines from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology page.

• Machine Dimensions: We compared compact rowing machines to standard rowers, which typically measure 95 inches in length, and juxtaposed the overall dimensions with standard furniture sizes for easier planning within your space. We found that most compact rowers featured a length no greater than 86 inches. The larger silhouettes on our list come with either foldable or segmented frames for easier storage.
• Available Programming: Having a rower with preset workout programs or the ability to stream on-demand sessions can help you stay motivated and engaged throughout your training regimen. We examined different compact rowers with a variety of workout libraries and placed an emphasis on profiles that could cater to different training preferences.
• Resistance Type: ​​There are multiple types of rowing machines on the market with differing forms of resistance. The three most popular are water-based, air-based, and magnetic, so we made sure to include multiple picks from each subcategory given that one’s preferred resistance type can be subjective.
• Stroke Experience: No matter its size, a rower can be rendered useless if the workout experience is clunky or uncomfortable. All of the picks included in this guide feature a smooth rail and efficient belt that can help keep your strokes smooth, efficient, and (above all else) enjoyable.
• Price: ​​Every budget is different, so we did our best to include compact rowing machines at differing price points. We’ve included budget-friendly profiles, as well as rowers that come in over the average price of $1,600, albeit with convenient features and engaging programming.

Best Compact Rowing Machine Overall: Hydrow Wave

If you’re looking for an entertaining, effective rowing experience to fill your small space, the Hydrow Wave can deliver. This top rowing machine delivers over 5,000 workouts across its companion Hydrow app and boasts a smooth stroke pattern powered by electromagnetic resistance, all within a footprint that takes up just 10.56 square feet of space.

We scored the dimensions of this compact rower at 4.5 out of 5, as the length is plenty manageable and can be easily planned around within most floor plans. To give you a visual, your standard 3-seater sofa measures 90 inches long with 38 inches of depth. (1) If your home gym or training area can house a piece of furniture of this size, it can easily house the smaller Hydrow Wave. Plus, this rower can be stored vertically for even more space-saving perks, although the upright storage kit is an additional $190 charge.

[Related: Original Hydrow Rower Review]

In terms of workouts, our tester, a certified personal trainer, stated, “I really enjoyed the available programming with this cardio machine. The scenic rows are simply beautiful, and there are a ton of instructor-led workouts to choose from. I also appreciate how you can filter your training modules by time, type, and experience level, which can help you find the perfect session for your specific needs.”

However, we do want to note that in order to unlock this immersive workout library, you will need to sign up for the brand’s monthly subscription service, which will cost you an extra $44 dollars per billing cycle. With a machine that’s already nearly $1,700, this may be too much investment for some. As such, we rated the overall value at 3.75 out of 5.

The Hydrow Wave also has an impressive electromagnetic drag resistance system, which we rated at 4 out of 5. This mechanism helps create a smooth glide through each stroke, helping to replicate the feel of on-water rowing. Additionally, we like the quietness of the resistance as you move through the available levels. Be mindful, though, that the lack of a fan can make for rather sweaty workout conditions.

Read our full Hydrow Wave Rower Review.

Best Compact Rowing Machine for Trainer-Led Workouts: NordicTrack RW900

For athletes wanting a heightened sense of connectivity within their rowing workouts, the RW900 from NordicTrack can be just the ticket. Compatible with iFIT — one of the best fitness apps we’ve tested — this rower grants you access to over 16,000 live and on-demand workouts for a monthly $39 subscription. Plus, the synergy between iFIT and the RW900 is further enhanced through NordicTrack’s AutoAdjust technology.

In testing, we loved how seamless the AutoAdjust feature was in shuffling through the 26 available magnetic resistance levels, which we rated at 4.25 out of 5. Rather than pausing our trainer-led workouts to match the on-screen instructions, the RW900 automatically toggled the resistance to the appropriate settings. 

This can be great for keeping your focus on the interactive workout at hand rather than trying to haphazardly mimic what your coach is shouting between strokes.

The dynamic programming available through this magnetic rowing machine also earned our praise to the tune of a 4.75 out of 5 rating. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, stated, “In addition to the variety of rowing workouts, I really enjoy how iFIT offers off-rower training sessions, too, for some variety in your training regimen. Plus, the swiveling display can help you achieve an optimal viewing angle whether sitting in the rowing saddle or off to the side for some HIIT circuits or bodyweight training.”

The design of the RW900 felt stable and supportive during trials, and we didn’t experience any shaking as we powered through strokes. However, this NordicTrack rower is only rated to support up to 250 pounds, which may be too low of a weight capacity for some athletes. 

Additionally, we rated the ergonomics at 3.75 out of 5 due to the somewhat awkward foot pedals. Our tester noted that while there are six adjustment levels at this foot plate, they couldn’t seem to find a comfortable setup. “The cradles feel oversized to me, which can influence my drive back during my strokes,” they added.

Read our full NordicTrack RW900 Rower Review.

Best Compact Rowing Machine for Cross-Training: ProForm Pro 750R

From a functionality standpoint, rowing machines may not seem like popular pieces of fitness equipment for cross-training. After all, they’re typically designed for rowing and rowing only. However, these cardio machines can be worthwhile tools for your multifaceted training regimen through engaging workout programs that allow for off-rower exercises. For our money, the ProForm Pro 750R is prime for such needs thanks to its iFIT integration, as well as the 20 preset programs available across the 5-inch LCD monitor.

We like how this ProForm rower integrates with iFIT, allowing you to choose from over 16,000 live and on-demand fitness classes that cater to rowing, HIIT, yoga, bodyweight training, and more. Additionally, the Pro 750R connects to the platform via Bluetooth, allowing you to monitor your progress and take advantage of the platform’s AutoAdjust features that toggle your resistance settings in tandem with your trainer-led courses. We rated the programming a 5 out of 5.

[Related: iFIT Review – Is Virtual Coaching The New Normal?]

In order to stream these interactive classes, however, there are some requirements. For one, you’ll need to subscribe to the iFIT platform, which costs $39 monthly after your initial free trial. 

Additionally, this rowing machine is a “bring your own display” setup, meaning you’ll need to have a tablet or smartphone available to take in the view. While this lack of a display did drop the Pro 750R’s tech rating to a 4 out of 5, we were happy to see that the machine comes with a media shelf that can conveniently house tablets up to 7.5 inches in width.

We also appreciate the construction of this compact rowing machine. While durable enough for regular training, the biggest benefit of the Pro 750R’s design lies in the folding SpaceSaver technology. 

“I absolutely love that this ProForm is a foldable rowing machine,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer. “The joint across the middle does sacrifice some weight capacity, but halving the silhouette for storage can be a great perk for those training in small spaces like an apartment.” We rated the construction a 4 out of 5.

Read our full ProForm Pro 750R Rower Review.

Most Stylish Compact Rowing Machine: Ergatta Rower

Compact rowing machines can be great for those that need to use their space for multiple settings, such as a living room or home office. However, the traditional plastic and metal silhouettes can be somewhat of an eyesore in comparison to your regular furniture. The Ergatta Rower can be great for athletes mixing their fitness goals with their living situation thanks to an aesthetically-pleasing cherry wood frame that can make any training space (lived in or not) come to life.

[Related: Best Water Rowing Machines]

In addition to its appealing looks, the Ergatta Rower also earned our praise for its gamified workout library that turns any training session into a trip to the arcade. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, noted, “While there aren’t any trainer-led workouts to choose from, I liked the engagement you get with this gamified platform. The workouts are simple enough to be enjoyable for beginners and veteran rowers alike, and the tracked data can be great for monitoring performance metrics.” As such, we rated the available tech at 4 out of 5.

In terms of this indoor rower’s footprint, the metrics align with other compact rowing machines at 86 inches in length and 23 inches in width. However, we scored the footprint at 4 out of 5 given the Ergatta Rower’s ability to be housed vertically for more convenient storage. When stored vertically, the footprint shrinks to just 3.59 square feet — just be sure you have a standard 8-foot ceiling to accommodate the full 86-inch rail. (2)

The Ergatta Rower uses a water-powered flywheel for its resistance, which does provide a great experience that can mimic on-water rowing. However, we scored this indoor rower at 3 out of 5 for the category given the component’s lack of adjustable resistance. 

You cannot toggle the water to a lighter or more challenging level, which can be a detriment for those wanting to change up their training intensity every now and again. Additionally, the water will need to be changed routinely to prevent mold buildup within the tank — a maintenance step not shared with rowing machines using air or magnetic resistance.

Read our full Ergatta Rower Review.

Best Compact Rowing Machine for Streaming: Aviron Strong Series Rower

While trainer-led workouts and scenic rowing sessions are effective training protocols, sometimes we just want to zone out and hit our target wattage while catching up on our favorite shows. For these situations, we recommend the Aviron Strong Series Rower. The 22-inch touchscreen display boasts a media suite that is compatible with top entertainment streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, ESPN, and more — perfect for watching along as you take in a worthwhile workout.

The Aviron Strong Series is actually my at-home rowing machine of choice, so I’m very experienced with the available media suite. Aside from the streaming apps, I also appreciate how Aviron is compatible with Spotify, allowing me to pick and choose my workout playlist directly on the machine instead of controlling my tunes via smartphone. The display itself is also pretty responsive, with no lagging or loading issues, leading to my 4.75 out of 5 rating for the category.

[Related: Does Working Out Without Music Help (or Harm) Your Gains?]

We also enjoyed the available programming with this indoor rower, which offers gamified workouts, trainer-led courses, community challenges, scenic rowing, and more. We scored the programming at 5 out of 5, as there’s practically a module for every interest and fitness level, whether you want your workout routine to resemble an instructor-led class or a trip to the arcade.

In terms of durability, I’ve yet to have any issues with the aluminum rail and durable plastic components across this machine. However, I rated the construction at 4 out of 5 since getting the entire unit together can be a bit of a chore. 

There’s a plastic shroud that covers where the rail meets the dual air and magnetic resistance unit, and getting the components to align took some doing — the opening required a little prying to accommodate the aluminum rail.

Lastly, this Aviron rower is on the expensive side at $2,199 — roughly $600 over the average cost of a compact rower. Be sure to look at your budget before opting for this cardio machine, especially since multiple subscriptions are needed to access the Aviron platform and any entertainment services you want in training.

[Related: Best Magnetic Rowing Machines]

Best Compact Rowing Machine for HIIT Workouts: Concept2 RowErg

High-intensity workouts require gear that can take a beating day in and day out. Utilizing commercial-grade stainless steel and aluminum across its base and rail system, the Concept2 RowErg can be a perfect fit for these needs. After all, you don’t get to be the rower trusted by thousands of commercial gyms (and the CrossFit Games) if your profile isn’t sturdy enough to handle the hardest of workouts.

I’ve had my fair share of indoor rowing sessions with the RowErg and appreciate its high-quality design. I especially enjoy the nickel-plated steel chain that showcases a great sense of durability and glide regardless of which dampener I have the resistance set to. Combine that with a sturdy frame, comfortable saddle, and ergonomic handles, and we had no choice but to rate the overall construction at 4.75 out of 5.

[Related: Best CrossFit Equipment]

Another major callout for this RowErg is the powerful PM5 monitor. While this rowing machine lacks the visual appeal of other indoor rowing machines, I do appreciate the level of detail its monitor provides during training. You can easily track your distance, time, strokes per minute, wattage, and more to give you a better indication of your performance overall. We rated the monitor at 4.25 out of 5.

In terms of its footprint, the Concept2 RowErg is on the larger side with a length of 95 inches. For reference, that’s 5 inches longer than your standard three-seat sofa. (1) However, this air rower still makes its way onto this particular round-up given the fact that it can break down into two pieces for more convenient storage. “You can even hang this rower on the wall if you’re in need of added floor space outside of training,” noted our tester, who rated their overall experience at 4.75 out of 5.

Finally, we should note that the air resistance can be somewhat loud during higher training intensities. If you don’t need to worry about napping children or pesky neighbors, though, it can be a great fit for your home gym.

[Related: Concept2 SkiErg Review]

Best Foldable Compact Rowing Machine: Echelon Row-S

Having a compact rowing machine that can fold up for storage can be excellent for keeping your floor plan as efficient as possible, especially when trying to navigate your space outside of training. The Echelon Row-S features a hinging rail system that collapses at the foot pedals, shrinking the overall footprint to just 5.83 square feet — less than that of your standard coffee table. (3)

In addition to its foldable design, we like this Row-S for home workouts due to its convenient workout experience. To toggle through the available resistance levels, you control your intensity via the Bluetooth-powered handle rather than leaning forward and adjusting across the touchscreen. 

While the handle may be too aggressively angled for our liking, this feature can help athletes remain focused on their workouts without having to pause and rearrange their levels at the end of their stroke.

[Related: Best Rowing Workouts for Beginners]

The Echelon Row-S is compatible with the brand’s Fit app for on-demand training, which delivers plenty of workouts for on-rower and off-rower sessions. We also rated the tech at 4.5 out of 5 given that a subscription to the service also allows you to stream your favorite entertainment services like Netflix and Hulu mid-workout — a great alternative when looking to pace through a quick session without much thought or intensity.

However, our tester, a certified personal trainer, rated the dynamic programming at 3.75 out of 5 given the quality of the rowing modules. “I noticed that a lot of the trainers weren’t showcasing proper rowing form, which could mislead some beginner athletes looking to follow along with instructor-led courses.”

We also scored the durability at 4 out of 5 and noticed no shakiness during rows. That said, there is a good presence of plastic across the build, namely in the shrouds that cover the internal components. These parts and areas could be prone to durability issues over time, especially if you’re maneuvering the Row-S in and out of position each day for training.

Editor’s Note: If you’re looking for a cheaper price point, Echelon also offers the Row, which swaps out the 22-inch touchscreen for a device holder.

[Related: Echelon Row Review]

Best Budget Compact Rowing Machine: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5639SMART

The (typically) nice thing about the best budget home gym equipment is that the dimensions are typically shrunken down to help save on costs. For rowers, we’re big fans of the SF-RW5639SMART from Sunny Health and Fitness. In addition to its wallet-friendly $249.99 price tag, this compact indoor rower is also a lightweight profile at just 36.3 pounds, meaning you can maneuver it wherever you please without much effort. Plus, the 11.26-square-foot footprint takes up minimal space, measuring smaller than your standard loveseat. (1)

Unlike other rowing machines, this Sunny Health and Fitness profile uses a hydraulic shock as its resistance mechanism. In trials, I’ve found this to be exceptionally quiet since there aren’t any rotating fan blades, sloshing water, or revolving magnetic flywheels that can make more noise than warranted.

In terms of the workout experience, I’d rate the SF-RW5639SMART at 4 out of 5 thanks to the full-motion arms. These handles can rotate 360 degrees, mimicking the stroke pattern you’d experience on the water. It’s a nice alternative to the straight pulling motion seen in other compact rowers, and I definitely feel a good sense of engagement across my back and arms during strokes.

Sunny Health and Fitness markets this silhouette as a smart rowing machine, but the definition is somewhat loose. Yes, you can connect the SF-RW5639SMART via Bluetooth to the brand’s companion app, but the digital monitor is very basic in terms of its data. Plus, there aren’t any preset programs to choose from, so you’re essentially in a manual training mode unless you stream a workout through a separate display. As such, I rated the tech at 3 out of 5.

Finally, while this budget-friendly rower is very compact, the dimensions may be too small for some athletes. The slide rail length is 47.6 inches, which may be too short for taller athletes looking to fully extend through their drive. It may be best to opt for a different model and pay the extra coin if you feel this motion plane is too compact for your personal frame.

[Related: Sunny Health and Fitness Exercise Bike Review]

Benefits of Compact Rowing Machines

Despite their smaller statures, compact rowers still carry a number of perks associated with the benefits of rowing machines. Below are some of our favorite qualities associated with these compact profiles perfect for at-home training.

• Less Required Space: While standard rowing machines can measure roughly 95 inches in length, compact rowers can shrink this measurement to more accommodating metrics between 80 and 86 inches. This can be beneficial for athletes looking to train in tighter quarters — or for those that need to keep home gyms livable with room to maneuver.
• Full-Body Training: Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, notes that rowing machines can be versatile training tools that offer workout challenges for your entire body. “You can use them for high-intensity interval training and steady-state cardio exercise. They can also be used for some strength training exercises, like pikes, for added versatility.”
• Low-Impact Workouts: According to studies, rowing can lessen the added stress felt across your joints during training. (4) You’re more in control of each movement across your knees, hips, and elbows, and the seated nature of the act means you aren’t letting gravity impact your shock absorption across these areas like you’d experience in higher-intensity disciplines such as running.

How Much Do Compact Rowing Machines Cost?

As with any piece of larger fitness equipment, rowing machines can vary in price depending on the available programming, quality of construction, and other built-in features. On average, you can expect to pay roughly $1,600 for a compact rower, with some silhouettes costing more or less. Read below to compare the prices of the compact rowing machines featured in this round-up.

Best Compact Rowing Machine Overall	Hydrow Wave	$1,695
Best Compact Rowing Machine for Trainer-Led Workouts	NordicTrack RW900	$1,999
Best Compact Rowing Machine for Cross-Training	ProForm Pro 750R	$699
Most Stylish Compact Rowing Machine	Ergatta Rower	$2,499
Best Compact Rowing Machine for Streaming	Aviron Strong Series Rower	$2,199
Best Compact Rowing Machine for HIIT Workouts	Concept2 RowERG	$990
Best Foldable Compact Rowing Machine	Echelon Row-S	$1,899.99
Best Budget Compact Rowing Machine	Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5639SMART	$249.99

What to Consider Before Buying a Compact Rowing Machine

Apart from the available space you have in your home gym, there are a few other components and features worth considering before adding a compact rowing machine to your cart. Below are some of the factors worth pondering over in order to help you achieve that premium at-home training setup.

Available Space

If you’re trying to maximize your workout efficiency while dealing with less abundant space, the best compact exercise equipment can be a good place to start — rowing machines included. On average, compact rowers will require 86 inches of available length, although some may feature a longer or shorter footprint.

A good starting point is to determine whether your floor plan has enough room for a standard three-seat sofa, which measures 90 inches long and 38 inches wide. (1) If you can comfortably fit this piece of furniture in your available space, odds are that a compact rower will fit as well. Of course, though, it’s always best to break out the tape measure and compare your available dimensions to the product dimensions of your preferred rower.

Resistance Type

When searching for a compact rowing machine, Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, also recommends looking at the resistance type used across the profile. “The flywheel mechanism dictates the rower type: Air rowers use fan flywheels; water rowers use fan flywheels against the resistance of water in a tank; magnetic rowers use electromagnetic resistance; and hydraulic rowers, which are less expensive but functionally limited compared to the other three types, use hydraulic cylinders in the handles to create resistance.”

There are no right or wrong answers when considering this factor, although we’ve found that magnetic and air rowers tend to provide a greater sense of versatility given that the resistance intensity can be toggled to your liking. In the end, be sure to choose the resistance type most aligned with your training goals. 

Available Programming

Your compact rower’s available workout library can be a major influence on your training experience. While some come equipped with preset programs, many of today’s machines offer a digital experience that allows you to stream on-demand workouts led by experienced trainers, gamified sessions that blend video games with fitness, and even entertainment streaming services like Netflix or Disney+.

It is important to remember that access to these streamable services often requires some form of subscription. We recommend looking at the cost of these platforms and ensure that your budget can support the extra investment on top of the rowing machine itself.

[Related: Best Online Personal Trainers]

Price

On average, you can expect to pay roughly $1,600 for a high-quality compact treadmill. However, we understand that every budget is different, so don’t feel as if this is the recommended price we expect everyone to pay. There are plenty of worthwhile options both below and above this median, so be sure to opt for the compact rowing machine that suits your budget best.

Best Compact Rowing Machine FAQs

References

1. Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/
2. Rybczynski, W. (n.d.). Ceiling Heights in Homes and Offices. Zell/Lurie Real Estate Center. https://realestate.wharton.upenn.edu/working-papers/ceiling-heights-in-homes-and-offices/
3. The Ultimate Guide to end table & coffee table sizes. Wayfair. (n.d.). https://www.wayfair.com/sca/ideas-and-advice/guides/the-ultimate-guide-to-end-table-coffee-table-sizes-T12889
4. Kang, S. R., Yu, C. H., Han, K. S., & Kwon, T. K. (2014). Comparative analysis of basal physical fitness and muscle function in relation to muscle balance pattern using rowing machines. Bio-Medical Materials and Engineering, 24(6), 2425–2435. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25226943/