We review and test workout equipments based on an independent and multi-point methods from different angle. If you use our affilate links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.

Top 10 Best Rowing Machine under $500 | Trusted Review [Aug 23]

Last updated on August 14th, 2023 at 02:03 pm

Good quality rowing machines can cost between $500 to $1000. However, with the proper research and knowledge, you will find it possible to get the best Rowing Machine under $500 at a very reasonable and affordable price.

Rowing Machine has received huge popularity and gained more and more users. If you want to make sure that your children or grandchildren have something positive to do during their break from school, buy them an indoor rowing machine. Your kids could get good exercise while staying healthy at home, so it’s wise.

In this review, I will show you some best indoor rowing machines with great quality from my point of view. You can use them for a long time but at affordable prices. And hope this article will be helpful to find the most suitable one for your home gym!

If you compare a rowing machine with an elliptical and treadmill for a workout then a rowing machine is the best one for a full-body workout with a lower price range.

Which is the best rowing machine for home use?

Let’s have a look at the list of the 10 best Rowing Machine under $500

  • MERACH Bluetooth Magnetic Rower
  • SNODE Water Rowing Machine
  • Merax Water Rowing Machine
  • Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5713
  • JOROTO MR35 Magnetic Rower
  • Curcuit Fiitness Magnetic Rower
  • LifeSpan RW1000 rower
  • SereneLife Smart Rowing Machine
  • Women’s Health Men’s Health Rower
  • Velocity Exercise rowing machine
 

Our Best rowing machine under $500 comparison

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
MERACH Bluetooth Magnetic Rower

MERACH Bluetooth Magnetic Rower

Dimensions (Lx W x H): 79x21x23
Heart Rate Sensors: Yes
Resistance: 16 level magnetic resistance
Foldable: No
Warranty: 1 Yr Limited

8.8
Check Price On Amazon
SNODE Water Rowing Machine

SNODE Water Rowing Machine

  • Dimensions (Lx W x H): 79x21x23
  • Heart Rate Sensors: Yes
  • Resistance: Water Resistance
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Warranty: 1 Year Limited
8.8
Check Price On Amazon
Author choices
Merax Water Rowing Machine

Merax Water Rowing Machine

  • Dimensions (Lx W x H): 79x21x23
  • Heart Rate Sensors: Yes
  • Resistance: Water Resistance
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Warranty: Limited
9.7
Check Price On Amazon
Author choices
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5713 Water Rower

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5713 Water Rower

  • Dimensions (Lx W x H): 79x22x34
  • Heart Rate Sensors: No
  • Resistance: Water
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Warranty: 3 yrs frame
9.5
Check Price On Amazon
JOROTO Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine

JOROTO Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine

  • Dimensions (Lx W x H): 79x21x23
  • Heart Rate Sensors: Yes
  • Resistance: 10 levels magnetic
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Warranty: Limited
9.4
Check Price On Amazon
Curcuit Fiitness Magnetic Rower

Curcuit Fiitness Magnetic Rower

  • Dimensions (Lx W x H): 71x21x31
  • Heart Rate Sensors: Yes
  • Resistance: 8 Levels
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Warranty: 2 Yrs Limited
9.3
Check Price On Amazon
LifeSpan RW1000 rower

LifeSpan RW1000 rower

  • Dimensions (Lx W x H): 87x19x23
  • Heart Rate Sensors: Yes
  • Resistance: 5 Levels
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Warranty: 5 Yrs frame
9
Check Price On Amazon
SereneLife Smart Rowing Machine

SereneLife Smart Rowing Machine

  • Dimensions (Lx Wx H): 83.5×19.3×34.8
  • Heart Rate Sensors: Yes
  • Resistance: Magnetic Resistance
  • Foldable: NO
  • Warranty: 1 Yrs Limited
9.2
Check Price On Amazon
Women’s Health Men’s Health Bluetooth Rower

Women’s Health Men’s Health Bluetooth Rower

  • Dimensions (Lx W x H): 80x23x28
  • Heart Rate Sensors: Yes
  • Resistance: 14
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Warranty: One Year
8.6
Check Price On Amazon
Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower

Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower

  • Dimensions (Lx W x H): 81x21x25
  • Heart Rate Sensors: Yes
  • Resistance: 8 Levels
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Warranty: 5 Yrs Frame
9
Check Price On Amazon

Important Features of Best Home Rower under $500

I want to tell you how I can suggest you buy and choose your particular rower. Below the essential criteria for that, we used to select the best home rowing machines under $500.

Types of resistance: A rowing machine is a great way to maximize your workout with very little equipment. There are four types of resistance for rowers: air, magnetic, water and piston type machines. Magnetic Controllers offer the smoothest motion that provides stability in strength levels while also adjusting to any movement or fitness level you’re at!

Quality of structure: One of the most important aspects to consider when buying a Rowing Machine is the quality of structure. Rowing Machines can be very expensive, so it’s best to get one that will last you for years and provide you with a good workout. There are many Rowing Machines under $500, but not all of them have high-quality structures.

Comfort to use: Rowing machines are a great way to stay in shape and build muscle. For the rowing machine to be worth its weight, it needs to feel smooth on your body while you row – from sitting in the seat up through each stroke of your arm as they pull back with every push forward. The last thing any person wants is an uncomfortable rowing experience that leaves their muscles sore because there’s no padding or support! Make sure when you’re shopping around for one that not only does this part make sense but also has comfortable seating options too,

Display monitor data: It is highly essential that the best rowing machine allowed monitoring workout sessions using a display monitor. You will be able to follow up on your health and fitness journey using the monitor. Most of the rowing machine has the display monitor to take essential data during the workout.

Storage and assembly: The best rowing machine has less assemble time and few storage place features. The rowers can be folded into two parts and store in a small place. The step-by-step assembly guidelines manuals enable you to set up within 15 minutes.

Load and height of consumers: The height and weight of a user must be compatible with the rowing machines. The best rowers must be accommodated with the maximum user’s height and weight.

Rower’s dimensions: Different types of indoor rowing machines available. Please ensure before purchasing you have enough space during the use of rowing machines.

Warranty: Believe it or not, there are differences between the warranties! The best one is going to have more warranty. If you’re thinking about getting a new rowing machine anytime soon, don’t forget to check out how long your potential purchase lasts for before buying anything.

Price: The price range must be under $500 and should have the features listed above. Then, you can include it in your cheap home gym equipment. Considering all features carefully, my final recommendation is that you can buy anyone from the following rowers that fulfil your demands.

MERACH Bluetooth Magnetic Rower

best indoor rower under 500 dollars

Specifications

  • Product Dimension: (38D x 20W x 25H) inch
  • Seat: Comfortable
  • Heart-rate sensor: Yes
  • Resistance: 16-level
  • Footplate: Non-slip
  • Max. Weight capacity: 350 lb.
  • Warranty Duration: 1-year warranty

The MERACH Bluetooth Magnetic Rower Machine is a sleek and modern fitness equipment that provides a full-body workout. It features a high-quality aluminum frame with a durable design that can support users up to 350 pounds.

The machine uses magnetic resistance with 16 levels of adjustable tension that can be easily controlled through the LCD monitor. The machine also has a comfortable seat and adjustable footrests that accommodate users of different heights. One unique feature of this rower is its Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to connect their mobile devices and track their progress through various fitness apps.

Pros:
  • The magnetic resistance provides a smooth and quiet rowing experience.

  • The LCD monitor displays important workout metrics such as time, distance, calories burned, and stroke rate.

  • Bluetooth connectivity lets users track their progress and set goals through various fitness apps.

  • The machine is compact and easy to store, making it suitable for small spaces.

  • The adjustable footrests and comfortable seats provide a comfortable workout experience for users of different sizes.

Cons:
  • The monitor does not have backlighting, making it difficult to read in low-light conditions.

SNODE Water Rowing Machine

under for apartment under $500

Specifications

  • Product Dimension: (79D x 20W x 36H) inch
  • Seat: Comfortable
  • Heart-rate sensor: Yes
  • Resistance: Adjustable
  • Footplate: Non-slip
  • Max. Weight capacity: 331 lb
  • Warranty Duration: 1-year warranty

The SNODE Water Rowing Machine is premium fitness equipment that simulates the experience of rowing on water. It features a high-quality steel frame that is both sturdy and stylish. The machine uses a water resistance system with a 7.4 gal water tank.

The resistance can be adjusted by adding or removing water from the tank, allowing users to customize their workout intensity. The machine also has a comfortable seat and adjustable footrests that accommodate users of different heights. The LCD monitor displays important workout metrics such as time, distance, calories burned, and stroke rate.

Pros:
  • The water resistance system provides a smooth and realistic rowing experience.

  • A high-quality steel frame gives the machine an elegant and stylish look.

  • Adjustable water resistance can be easily adjusted to customize the workout intensity.

  • It is quiet and suitable for home use.

  • The LCD monitor provides useful workout metrics to track progress.

Cons:
  • The machine is a little bit heavy and difficult to move around.

  • The water tank requires periodic maintenance to prevent algae growth and ensure water quality.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5713 Water Rower

best water rower under $500

Specifications

  • Product Dimension: (80L × 22W × 34H) inch
  • Heart Sensor: Yes
  • Cushioned Seat: 12.2 × 10 inch
  • Foot pedal: Adjustable
  • Max User weight: 300 pounds
  • Resistance Level: Water (16)
  • Warranty: Three years on frame & 6 months parts.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5713 is still the best rowing machine brand for those who want to get a high-quality and budget friendly exercise rowing machine. This rowing machine will cost you under $500. They have water rowers that will keep you engaged in your workout with their challenging routines, looking like other professional athletes!

Some users reported that the water rowing machine can warm-up and work up to 85% of the body’s muscular system and obviously without any joint impact that may happen for other conventional cardio workouts.  The Sunny Health and fitness rower is a super high-quality design for rowing exercise.

The Company also provides all excellent features for customer expectation and satisfaction. Sunny health and fitness SFRW5713 has a very comfortable and adjustable cushioned seat for comfortable rowing exercise.

Pros:
  • Water-resistance system
  • Very sturdy structure
  • Lightweight
  • Easy transport using transportation wheels
  • LCD monitor display shows time, distance, and calories and heart rate.
  • Easy to assembly and takes minimal time
  • Smooth rowing experience
  • Affordable price rower
Cons:
  • The LCD monitor display is not backlit display
  • Some customers bad feedback

SereneLife Smart Rowing Machine

best water rower under $500 for home

Specifications

  • Product Dimension: (84L × 20W × 35H) inch
  • Heart Sensor: Yes
  • Padded Seat: Yes
  • Foot pedal: adjustable
  • User Capacity: 250 pounds
  • Resistance Level: magnetic (Air)
  • Warranty:  1 Yr warranty

The SereneLife smart rowing machine is a winsome brand that also distributes a lot of health benefits through using this best air resistance rower that will cost you under 500

It has a 34.8×19.3×83.5 inches (L×W×H×) product dimension that a maximum weight capacity of more than 250 lbs. With these tools, you feel very smooth and quiet during workout sessions.

Having the non-slip handlebars, air cooling resistance, and comfortable seating options make it the ideal home gym workout equipped in the fitness community. It is one of the best rowing machines under 500.In this budget, very difficult to find out an ideal rower machine.

The premium quality smart rowing machine gives you full-body workout facilities, enjoyable rowing session and lots of fun for your improvement. Easy to install options, transportation wheels system and hassle free using makes it fantastic rower. It is one of the best rowing machine for home.

Pros:
  • Air Rowers with smooth resistance
  • Extremely quiet and comfortable
  • Non-slip handlebar and foot straps
  • Premium quality smart rower
  • Great rowing for this price
  • Very easy to install options
  • Pretty solid and decent
Cons:
  • Limited time warranty options

CIRCUIT FITNESS Deluxe Foldable Rowing Machine

best magnetic rowing machine

Specifications

  • Product Dimension: (91L × 21W × 32H) inch
  • Store Dimension: (49L × 21W × 51H) inch
  • Heart Sensor: Yes
  • Padded Seat: Comfortable
  • Foot pedal: adjustable
  • User Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Resistance Level: magnetic
  • Warranty: Two-year manufacturer warranty

Magnetic rowing machines are the newest trend in fitness. Not only do they provide a full-body workout, but you get to enjoy it without getting wet! The CIRCUIT FITNESS Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine is one of the best magnetic rowers on today’s market and has an 11lb flywheel for excellent workouts.

This rower has an excellent display monitor to show you the workout data like burned calories, workout duration, speed, stroke count, workout distance, and heart rate pulse.  

The pulse rate is shown when the chest strap (sold separately) is connected with a display. A durable mold-injected seat is designed ergonomically. CIRCUIT FITNESS Deluxe rower has foam covered handlebar for a better workout experience.

It has adjustable foot straps is adjustable to any-sized shoe. Finally, this paddle is designed with anti-slip properties for a more effective workout.

This rowing machine resistance levels are satisfied and designed for various levels of users. This rower is designed with 8 levels of knob.

Pros:
  • Variable resistance up to 8 levels
  • Heart rate sensors (sold separately)
  • Max User weight capacity up to 300lbs
  • Transportation wheel
  • Aesthetic looking rower
  • Best home rowing machine
  • Foam Padded handlebar
  • Adjustable foot straps
  • Two Yrs of the limited warranty
  • Easy to assemble
Cons:
  • No limitations found. It is a great rower.

Merax Water Rower (Best water rower under $500)

best rated water rower under $500

Specifications

  • Product Dimension: (47L × 26W × 23H) inch
  • Store Dimension: (78L × 20W × 26H) inch
  • Heart Sensor: Yes
  • Padded Seat size: 12.2 × 10 inches
  • Foot pedal: 12 inches
  • User Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Resistance Level: Water (6)
  • Warranty: One Yr Limited Warranty

The Merax water rower machine is one of the best machines to get in shape, with a strong steel frame and heart rate monitor capability. This powerful affordable best price rowing machine tones muscles while helping you lose weight!

Although, the main disadvantage of this rowing machine is its warranty, which is not included. Merax water rower is highly durable and strong fitness equipment that allows users body weight up to 330 LBS. The unique inclined water tank ensures a flat position. You can complete your aerobic and cardio exercise using just this equipment at home. The water rower machine provides a soothing glide.

which mimics the dynamic rowing movements across the actual water experience. You must enjoy the relaxing sound of water splashing inside the aqua blue water tank or stream your favorite show without turning the sound too high. It is really that you will best water rowing challenge with the max water rowing machine that is within your budget rowing machine.

Pros:
  • It is Made with durable frame for a light water
  • Very quiet and smooth
  • It has Transport wheels for easy movement
  • Space saving design for small apartment
  • It has Powerful resistance level
  • Comfortable seat design
  • Best water rower for home
  • Large LCD Display Monitor
  • Heart tracking function also included
  • It is Very easy to assemble
  • Perfect foot position for any sized shoes
  • Wide range users body weight range up to 330lbs
Cons:
  • Not included backlight LED display
  • warranty features is not clear

JOROTO Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine

best magnetic rower under $500

Specifications

  • Product Dimension: (71L × 21W × 36H) inch
  • Store Dimension: (22L × 21W × 71H) inch
  • Heart Sensor: Yes
  • Seat: Comfortable
  • Foot pedal: adjustable
  • User Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Range of Resistance: magnetic (10)
  • Warranty: 12 months parts replacement warranty

The JOROTO Rower is our best buy in the 500-dollar range. It’s a magnetic resistance rower that provides a full body workout and has eye catching colors which makes it popular all over the world! With its advanced models, this rowing machine really offers an excellent price for quality ratio!

For over thirty years, this rowing machine dominating the rowing world with very popularity. Usually, it has a lot of excellent features that make your journey ultra-smooth and cool such as premium type steel frame, adjustable magnetic resistance levels, non-slip handlebars with foot straps and adjustable LCD console are the main caused to popularity.

Pros:
  • Supper quiet and smooth
  • Adjustable 10 magnetic tension resistance
  • Foam and cup holder
  • Nice contoured cushion seat
  • Foldable and space saving option
  • Solid aluminum slide rail
  • Aluminum flywheel
  • Anti slip foot pedals
Cons:
  • Pretty hard resistance option

LifeSpan RW1000 rower

best magnetic rowing machine

Specifications

  • Product Dimension: (87L × 19W × 23H) inch
  • Store Dimension: (34L × 2119 × 64H) inch
  • Heart Sensor: Yes
  • Seat: Comfortable
  • Foot pedal: adjustable
  • User Capacity: 300 pounds
  • Resistance Level: magnetic (5)
  • Warranty: 5 Yrs on frame; 2 Yrs parts, 1 Yr labor

Lifespan RW1000 Rower is a nice and best air resistance rowing machine that provides users a great chance to Strengthen muscles and get a full-body exerciser. You can buy this incredible rowing machine for under $500.

This excellent and smooth rower design includes the Eddy current Drive System for an Ultra-quiet magnetic knob that is derived from a 16.5” Flywheel.

The Lifespan RW1000 rower provides a low-impact workout with adjustable components including a large foam padded seat with adjustable height, sizable non-slip foot pedals with straps, and up to five brake levels. After completion LifeSpan RW1000 Indoor Rowing machine reviews so you can see that how many advantages provide the rower. I hope you must-read the pros and cons of your query.

Pros:
  • Comfortable to use,
  • Smooth and quiet resistances,
  • Durable structure due to Made of the Solid steel frame,
  • Large Display control panel,
  • An easy tracking system,
  • Easy assembly with great direction,
  • Great 16.5” flywheel and eddy current breaks,
  • Large Foam padded seat with adjustable height,
  • Convenient price to buy,
  • Suitable for any size users,
  • Easy Folded and easy storage,
  • Great weight capacity,
  • Great warranty policy.
Cons:
  • No heart rate sensors.

Women’s Health Men’s Health Bluetooth Rower

best air rower

Specifications

  • Product Dimension: (80L × 23W × 29H) inch
  • Store Dimension: (42L × 23 × 58H) inch
  • Heart Sensor: Yes
  • Padded Seat: Comfortable
  • Foot pedal: adjustable
  • User Capacity: 250 pounds
  • Adjustable Resistance Levels: magnetic (14)
  • Warranty: One year on frame

Hit your cardio exercise with the Women’s Health Men’s Health Bluetooth Rower that will take you to a healthier and happier place. With an extra-sized comfortable molded seat rail, this rowing machine is perfect for anyone who wants to get the best budget rowing machine for better shape without any collective impact!

It is made of sturdy steel that builds it durable; this rowing machine is very stable and provides outstanding performance for the long run.

The rower comes with a comfortable molded seat that is great for any slim body shape. The product metal rowing chain ensures vigorous exercise and is very durable. It is designed with 14 calibrated resistance levels.

In addition, a multifunctional electronic performance monitor displays the workout distance, workout time, workout calories, stroke count, number, heart rate, and strokes per minute to help you keep track of your exercise.

Pros:
  • Affordable rower price,
  • Smooth and strong Dynamic air adjustable resistance,
  • Great manufacturing quality,
  • Best customer reviews,
  • Very nice design,
  • Best wide range for capacity,
  • Easy to fold and store,
  • Easy to Assembly,
  • Transportation wheels for movement.
Cons:
  • Basic LCD monitor,
  • It is not good for the warranty.

Velocity Magnetic Rower (Best magnetic rower under $500)

best magnetic rower

Specifications

  • Product Dimension: (81L × 21W × 25H) inch
  • Heart Sensor: Yes
  • Padded Seat: Comfortable
  • Foot pedal: Non-slip
  • User Capacity: 275 pounds
  • Resistance Level: magnetic
  • Warranty: 5 Yrs on frame; 90 days monitor & 30 days parts

The Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower under $500 is a great choice for intense cardio training. Not only does it have a heart rate monitor that shows you your exact heart rate at the time of rowing, but it also drummed magnetic resistance to give an enjoyable workout! In addition, this rower has transportation wheels, so no matter where in your house or apartment this machine goes, wheeling it around will be easy and simple.

  Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower allows any sized shoe and can be fit easily with adjustable straps. It is one of the best rowing machines for under $500. Velocity Exercise Magnetic Rower has an excellent and extra padded seat. You will be motivated to use these great magnetic rowing machines. 

It is quiet and does not produce extra noise at the time of rowing. Moreover, It has a great LCD digital monitor that shows all necessary data: heart rate, calories burned, distance covered, time, speed & stroke count. It allows up to 275lbs bodyweight for users.

Pros:
  • Durable structure.
  • Great resistance
  • Heart rate monitor
  • User-friendly, anti-slip, and adjustable foot pads,
  • Full body workout,
  • Users weight up to 275 lbs,
  • Large and extra padded seat.
Cons:
  • Some users reports about the durability of the rower.
  • Not ideal for more than 6 feet users height.

Best rowing machine under $500 FAQ

Can you lose belly fat on a rowing machine?

No doubt that a rowing machine is an effective and efficient way to burn more calories and lose weight. If you want to build strong body muscles and burn belly fat, so the rowing machine is a great option for your requirements.

Though, a lot of cardio exercise or equipment available to improve your cardiovascular exercise but rowing is the king of them. At the same time, it improves your heart health, reduces diabetic risk, and prevents much more health injuries.

So, it is undoubtedly clear that rowing is a great indoor option for burn calories, lose belly fat, and much more health benefits.

Are rowing machines worth it?

No way to say that rowing is valueless equipment for you. Because, a rowing machine can do anything such as weight loss, calories burn, reduce belly fat as well as build overall fitness goals.

In general, the best home rowing machine saves you gym fees, especially when more than one member of your family is interested in rower exercising.

Even, you can exercise at any time you want, which does not apply to your gym membership. So, buying top rowing machines is an excellent idea for indoor use.

Is rowing the best full-body workout?

You may know that there are many full-body exercise machines available in the market at present but the rowing machine is one of them. Rowing machines for whole-body workouts have a much better reputation around the world.

An indoor rowing machine has a good reputation for improving back, shoulders, arms, and endurance that’s better than other cardio fitness equipment. So, a rowing machine is a great solution for a full-body workout.

Should I row every day?

Your question is a bit difficult, but the simple answer is no if you are a beginner. You may know that rowing is a great innovation for cardiovascular exercise all over the world. Each day three times rowing workouts suitable for you, but if you have a sore after a session you need to take rest for two days to recover.

So, this answer will depend on your health condition, if your health replays good after an everyday workout then you can continue otherwise need to take a rest.

Does rowing tone your arms?

Quality rowing machines are an ideal option for total body exercise. Usually, rowing machine famous for calories burning exercise that helps to faster tone the full-body.

A rowing machine before and after photos indicated that tone development across the total body fitness. This exercise is especially beneficial for the abs, back, shoulder and arms. So, it is proven that rowing also tones your arms.

What is the best rowing machine under 500 dollars?

I think you can choose already your best rowing machine under $500.  When your budget is more than $300 but less than $500 then you should buy a CIRCUIT FITNESS Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine. Because it is the best rowing machine under $500 according to the consumer report.

You can see all the positive consumer reports. Some people do not like stamina ATS air rower because of its generated noise, but  CIRCUIT FITNESS Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine. do not create extra noise.

My choice is the most affordable CIRCUIT FITNESS Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine. This is an excellent opportunity to get a full-body workout at your home just by spending $500. Buy easily the best cheap rowing machine and keep rowing.

If you want to buy water rower then Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5713 is the best water rowing machine under $500.

During the search for a rowing machine, you can find lots of rowing machines in the market with different features and usability according to their price. But when you pay more, then you get more features, but the most intention is rowing and to monitor the workout sessions that you can track and follow up your fitness goals with the best inexpensive rowing machine.

Conclusion:

If you’re in the market for the best rowing machine under $500 but don’t want to shell out big bucks, we have mentioned some product reviews, tips, and tricks that can help. In addition, we enlisted and reviewed budget-friendly options under $500, so your hard-earned money goes towards something other than just paying off debt from buying an expensive product!

More article on rowing machine: