11 Best Magnetic Rowing Machines As Per A Fitness Pro (2024): Reviews
Get back into shape and tone your body at the convenience of your home.
David Rosales is a certified personal trainer, the co-owner of Roman Fitness Systems, and the head editor of prohockeystrength.com, the official website of the NHL strength coaches. He has been in the fitness industry for over five years and has worked with athletes and coaches from beginners to NCAA Division 1 and professional ice hockey.
Read full bio of David Rosales
Experience: 4 yearsShreya is a commerce writer who is passionate about reviewing products related to fitness, health, and home. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University, Gurugram, and has four years of experience.
Read full bio of Shreya Vishwanathan
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
Read full bio of Medha Deb
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
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How do you like to workout? While some people can’t get themselves to move without a gym membership, some find solace working out from their homes. If you fall in the latter category, we’re sure you’ve tried and tested a bunch of at-home workout programs. These do require a lot of motivation, but switching to exercise equipment can be helpful. Treadmills and ellipticals are plentiful in the market but if only-cardio is not your jam, take a look at magnetic rowing machines. They are as simple as hydraulic rowers but use an electric cord instead. Magnets act on the metal flywheel to give you a wide range of resistance, working the whole body for a mix of strength and cardio.
Designed to mimic rowing on water, these machines use both push and pull mechanisms to engage major muscles in your body. On top of simply burning calories, they also strengthen and improve endurance, leading to full body toning for overall health. Low-maintenance, low-impact, and highly beneficial, rowing equipment is a gamechanger for anyone looking to accelerate their fitness levels.
“The row machine,” says David Rosales, an expert in strength & conditioning and sports performance, “mimics the movement of a deadlift, strengthening the quads, glutes, and upper back muscles. It’s a true total-body movement.”
Check out some of the best magnetic rowing machines below!
In This Article
11 Best Magnetic Rowing Machines To Get In Shape (2024): Reviews
1. Best Overall:Fitness Reality Bluetooth Magnetic Rower
Accommodating up to 250 pounds of weight, Fitness Reality’s rower is all you need for a quick full body low impact workout. The large LCD display shows your performance while the cushioned seat helps with resting during a long session. A quiet and durable nylon belt is provided so you can listen to your favorite playlist without any noise. For smooth rowing strokes, the ball-bearing rollers come into play and the adjustable rear floor stabilizers prevent any unnecessary rocking. As per reviews, the rowing machine folds easily for storage and features wheels so you can transport it anywhere.
- Anti-slip and pivoting foot pedals with adjustable straps
- Phone holder included
- Includes bluetooth connectivity
- Adjustable seat height
- Foam-padded handlebar for comfortable grip
- Foldable and portable
- Supports up to 250 pounds
- Some may find the resistance to be inadequate.
"This rower is remarkably easy to assemble. It has user-friendly manual controls. Its seat is notably comfortable. I like that it operates quietly and can be stored conveniently upright."
2. Best Foldable:ECHANFIT CRW 4901 Smart Series Folding Magnetic Rower
Focused on building your core strength and keeping your heart rate up, ECHANFIT’s compact magnetic rowing machine has an ergonomic design. It is a top-of-the-range model built with a solid steel frame holding up to 350 pounds and an LCD screen that tracks your activity. The magnetic flywheel system allows you to choose from 16 levels of resistance according to different training speeds and levels. With the contoured comfortable seat, your posture is stable while the textured rubber pedals come with straps for a secure fit. No matter your height, the long handle of the rowing cords is comfortable and smooth sliding mechanisms are convenient. If you are still unsure about purchasing, you can check out this video detailing a tester’s experience with this product on YouTube.
- Front transport wheels
- Foldable
- Water bottle holder
- No-noise operation
- 16 levels of resistance
- Accommodates up to 350 pounds
- Awkward placement of tablet holder
"The machine is robust but functions smoothly. I am an active person, yet the 4/6 water resistance had me sweating in 5 minutes. It offers 16 resistance levels that easily accommodate all my exercise needs. Overall, it's a satisfying, solid workout device."
Caution
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
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3. Best For Quiet Workout:JOROTO Magnetic Rower Machine
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JOROTO’s full motion magnetic rowing machine uses aluminum flywheels and side rails to keep sound almost non-existent for a quiet workout. 10 levels of magnetic resistance which can be adjusted are great for both beginners and frequently active people. Reviewers love this model as its non-slip pedals fit most foot sizes and the LCD display can be angled multiple ways depending on your height. Built-in wheels in the front help with easy transport while protectors in the rear will keep your floors streak-free.
- Features cup and phone holder
- Foam handlebar for anti-slip grip
- Large cushioned and contoured seat
- 10 resistance types
- Holds up to 330 pounds
- Durable nylon pull-cord
- Might be tricky for taller people
"I found this machine low-lying but well-constructed. I really like the non-slip pedals that prevent accidents and the soft handles that are easy to grip. Overall, it's a great home workout option."
4. Best For Beginners:ADVENOR Magnetic Rowing Machine
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The ADVENOR magnetic rowing machine is built with a solid steel frame, accommodating up to 265 pounds of weight. Holding you securely in the contoured ergonomic seat and with the anti-slip foot pedals, the machine adapts to your body and protects the spine. According to reviews, the 8-level magnetic resistance is super smooth. Folding upright and moving easily with wheels, ADVENOR’s rower also has rear floor stabilizers that minimize rocking.
- Easy and quick installation
- Accommodates 265 pounds of weight
- Foldable and portable
- Digital monitor
- Device holder
- Fully padded seat and non-slip handlebars
- Some might find the foot straps to be flimsy.
"This machine is easy to handle and has a stunning design! The extra wide paddle and cushioned seat offer comfort to my feet and lower back. Its foldable design is a big plus. Overall, I love it."
5. Best For All Fitness Levels:DripeX Magnetic Rowing Machine
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DripeX’s Magnetic Resistance Rower is easy on the joints and suitable for all fitness levels owing to its 15-level adjustment system. Engineered precisely with a sleek design, this piece of equipment folds and stores easily. Many reviewers have testified Many reviewers agree that the bottom shock absorbers guarantee you a noise-free workout session. With the ergonomic hand grips and anti-slip foot plates with straps, you can rest assured about your safety as well.
- LCD monitor display
- Holds up to 265 pounds
- Cushioned 3D seat
- 15-level adjustable resistance
- Rear stabilizer for less rocking
- Built-in shock absorbers
- Might not be resistant to rusting
"This machine has a sturdy construction and it provides a smooth sliding action. It offers 16 resistance levels, meeting all my exercise needs. Its compact size is a bonus. All in all, a valuable addition to my home workouts."
6. Best Foldable:Ativafit Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine
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The Ativafit Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine engages all your major muscle groups with 8 levels of resistance. With a simple twist of a knob, you can customize your workout and track progress on the LCD display screen. The pedals are textured and anti-skid with handlebars that give you a good grippage. Transportation wheels make the machine super easy to move around for home use, and the foldable design works well to save you space. You can check out this in-depth review of the product that details the reviewer’s hands-on experience with it.
- Accommodates 220 pounds of weight
- 8 resistance levels
- Foam-padded handle bars for grip
- Features transportation wheels
- Anti-slip textured foot pedals
- Contoured seat
- The LCD display might be very dim.
"I've been using this rowing machine for a year now with no resistance drops despite regular usage. It moves smoothly, though occasionally requires track cleaning for an optimal slide. I like that it does not occupy a lot of space and is also not noisy."
7. Best Sweat-Resistant Surface:Teeter Power10 Elliptical Rower
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Offering 7 levels of smooth magnetic resistance, Teeter’s body-sculpting magnetic rowing machine reduces friction to increase endurance, providing real results. The real-time digital performance tracker helps you stay on top of your game as it wirelessly measures your heartbeat as well. As per reviews, the stroke length can also be adjusted to keep your core engaged while the quick-release foot straps give you a secure footing.
- Multi-grip rubber handles
- Adjustable height
- Bi-directional path allowing both push and pull
- Comes with heart rate monitor and digital performance
- 7 resistance levels
- Sweat-resistant surface
- Might not be completely no-noise
"I find the machine excellent for a targeted core workout. It is a worthwhile quality cardio equipment that makes zero noise. I find the digital monitor tracker very useful as it motivates me to meet my exercise goals."
8. Best For Home Gym:Pooboo Magnetic Rowing Machine
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Pooboo’s Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine can hold up to 300 pounds of weight and gives you a smooth and quiet exercise experience. Simply twist a knob to adjust between the 16 levels of resistance provided depending on where you are in your fitness journey. You can move with ease owing to the non-slip pedals and straps, cushioned seat, and the grippy handlebars. Floor stabilizers and sliders built in are all no-noise while a phone holder is also given for convenience.
- Accommodates up to 300 pounds
- 16 resistance levels
- Non-slip pedals with adjustable straps
- Digital tracking monitor
- Foam handlebars
- Comes with transportation wheels
- Might rust over time
"The PooBoo rower is quite good for home workouts. While I wish for a slightly greater resistance, it still provides a satisfactory exercise. Assembling it was simple, and it performed smoothly and quietly. The machine easily fits even in compact spaces which is a big plus. It supports my knees and back, allowing me to exercise regularly. Overall, it's a solid fitness investment."
Caution9. Best Durable:UREVO Foldable Rowing Machine
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With smooth aluminum rails that move quietly, UREVO’s rower can be customized with 8 levels of resistance, suiting almost everyone. It can carry up to 330 pounds in weight and gives comfort with the well-cushioned seat. The silent operation is sure to make your neighbors happy and the movement is low-impact, protecting your joints. You can make note of your progress in the LCD display, as you engage in this workout for personal transformation.
- 8 resistance levels
- Capacity of 330 pounds
- Well-cushioned seat
- LCD display with tablet holder
- Non-slip foam handles
- Large textured foot pedals
- The nylon cord might fray with time.
"This rowing machine has a foldable design which saves a lot of space in my room. I like that it has a designated phone holder. The ergonomic cushioned seat allows me to sit on it comfortably and train my legs. Overall, it is easy to use and imparts smooth operation."
10. Best Anti-Slip Handles:SereneLife Magnetic Rowing Machine
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In the SereneLife’s Rowing Machine, magnetic resistance is used at 8 varying levels for different kinds of exercises. Foldable to save you space, this machine is durable owing to its heavy-duty steel frame. People’s experience with this rowing machine has been rewarding, especially because of the digital display monitor that keeps you motivated to give it your all and you can also sync it with your phone for anywhere-visibility. Pedal-style footrests with the comfortable handlebars and cushioned seat allow you to maintain the right posture.
- Accommodates up to 220 pounds
- Foldable and space-saving
- 8 levels of tension
- Pedals with adjustable velcro straps
- Padded cushion
- Foam handlebars
- Some might find the LCD to be positioned poorly.
"My SereneLife rower provides an intense workout right at home. It's easy to assemble and doesn't take up much space. The resistance levels accommodate both myself, a beginner, and my husband who's more experienced. It is sturdy and has shown no signs of wear, even with frequent use."
11. SunFitter Magnetic Rowing Machine
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Giving you solid equipment for a full-body workout and weight loss from the comfort of your own home, SunFitter’s rower can be used by all ages and fitness levels. Customize the intensity you prefer with 8 levels of resistance that work with absolutely no sound whatsoever. The digital monitor not only notifies you about your performance but can also be angled in a way that doesn’t strain your neck. Many reviewers have testified that the anti-slip handlebars and pedals are great at keeping you safe while you remain active.
- Accommodates up to 220 pounds
- 8 tension levels
- Easily foldable
- Anti-slip handlebars and foot pedals
- Contoured seat
- Transportation wheels
- The wheels might not function smoothly on carpeted surfaces.
"I find this rowing machine good in terms of construction and functionality. It is easy to assemble, even for me who generally avoids mechanical tasks. The pedal strap is not durable, but it's a minor hitch. Overall. the device is sturdy and it works silently during workouts. I like that it offers adjustable resistance, making it suitable for many individuals. It's got wheels too, allowing me to move it easily!"
Now that we’ve looked at some of the best magnetic rowers out there on the market, let’s learn how you can choose the right one. In the buying guide below, we have listed a few insider tips that you should consider when purchasing a rowing machine.
How To Choose A Magnetic Rowing Machine
- Weight capacity
Always ensure to check how much weight the machine can handle before you bring it home. Most rowers can accommodate anywhere between 220 to 350 pounds, some even going up to 500. This helps with various people using the machine and it is bound to be sturdy for long-time usage.
- Size and stability
The size of your machine depends on how large (or small) your space is as well as your height. But for a comfortable full leg extension, the rower must have a long beam and a central seat rail. This allows you to move smoothly without hitting walls or any furniture as you can maintain proper form and posture.
The heavier your machine is, the more stable it will be. Rowing machines can weigh anywhere between 50 and 100 pounds with a few also having stabilizing feet to reduce rocking or wobbling. These rubber caps are helpful as they also reduce sound.
- Space available
Magnetic rowing machines come under the category of gym equipment and need quite a bit of space in your home. You will need to measure both your available space, the machine, and do the math required so that the fit isn’t tight or awkward. Usually 5 to 8 feet in length, these machines fold up and come around 3 to 4 feet, which is an excellent space-saving design feature.
- Design
To guarantee comfort whilst using the machine, there are a couple features you can keep an eye out for. Foam-padded handlebars, anti-slip foot pedals with adjustable velcro straps, and a cushioned and contoured seat can elevate comfort and help maintain good form. It also goes without saying that the more resistance levels on a machine, the better as people of varying fitness levels can benefit from it. You can also check for an LCD tracker, phone and tablet holder, and front wheels for easy transportation.
Infographic: The Right Way To Use A Magnetic Rowing Machine
If you are new to magnetic rowing machines, using them initially may feel difficult. However, with the right techniques and practice, rowing will become as natural as breathing. Check out the infographic below to learn how to use a rowing machine the right way to avoid cramps and injuries.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
If you are a fitness enthusiast, these magnetic rowing machines will be a great addition to your workout routine to get into shape. They help tone your muscles, burn calories, and strengthen the muscles. These magnetic rowing machines are a combination of both strength and cardio. In addition, they aid posture correction by aligning the spine in place. These rowing machines are designed with adjustable seat heights and anti-slip foot pedal grips. Moreover, this exercise equipment is foldable, portable, and easy to install and use. The Fitness Reality Bluetooth Magnetic Rower has amazing adjustable seat height and is portable and storage-friendly, while the ECHANFIT CRW 4901 Smart Series Folding Magnetic Rower has an LCD screen to track your activity. You can also choose the JOROTO Magnetic Rower Machine; it’s noise-free and offers amazing resistance. Check out our buying guide to pick the best magnetic rowing machine suitable for your workout needs. Consult a certified personal trainer if you need assistance in using the machine the right way.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shreya Vishwanathan, is a health and fitness enthusiast. She has the best tips on staying healthy with new and interesting workouts. She compiled the list of top magnetic rowing machines after deep research and checking user reviews and feedback on trusted forums and brand websites. These machines are great at burning calories and building endurance and stamina. You can have an entire body workout at your home with these low-maintenance rowing machines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a magnetic rowing machine work?
With the help of a magnetic break in the flywheel for resistance, these rowers can be adjusted to a level you are comfortable with.
Are magnetic rowing machines a good workout?
Yes, magnetic rowers make for an excellent full body low-impact workout as they target major muscle groups to improve endurance, strength, and overall fitness.
Are hydraulic or magnetic rowing machines better?
Hydraulic machines are a good option if you’re looking for something affordable but you might have to compromise on having a no-noise experience. Magnetic rowers give you the effect of actually rowing on water and engage all your major muscle groups.
Are magnetic rowers better than water rowers?
Both machines are smooth in operation but magnetic rowers are a go-to for people that like noise-free equipment.
Can you lose belly fat on a rowing machine?
Yes, magnetic rowing machines strengthen your core and burn a lot of calories just like other forms of cardio. Over time with a balanced diet and consistent exercise, you can see a reduction in belly fat.
Is a rowing machine better than a treadmill?
Yes. A treadmill helps you lose fat, while a rowing machine burns calories and builds your muscles and core strength. Therefore, rowing machines are better than treadmills as they are multi-utility exercise partners.
What is the difference between magnetic and water rowing machines?
A water rowing machine uses water to create resistance, whereas a magnetic rower uses magnetic currents to develop resistance. Magnetic rowers offer more manual control with adjustable resistance levels, unlike water rowers. Also, water rowing machines are noisier than magnetic rowers.
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