Picking the right rowing machine for your home can feel overwhelming — there are so many choices out there. Do you go for air, magnetic or water resistance? Foldable or not? Do you need Bluetooth compatibility? It’s enough to make your head spin.
But don’t stress — we did the research, tested the gear, and pulled together Australia's best rowing machines for every budget, space, and fitness goal. In this article, you’ll find our top picks, easy-to-understand summaries, and everything you need to know to find the perfect rower for you.
Unlike affiliate blogs and magazines that are often paid by brands to promote their products, we source, test and stock dozens of rowing machines from reputable brands in our warehouses. Over the years we have tried and tested dozens of rowers and narrowed down to the brands and specific models we believe have the highest quality features and provide the best value to our customers in each of their respective price bands and use cases.
Cardio Online is an Australian-owned small family business and every customer is important to us and treated as a genuine person and never just a number. We consider all the major use cases that our customers demand, from rowers for beginners, home workout enthusiasts, professional athletes, and commercial facility owners. We're constantly on the hunt for new products to test, and if we think they're good enough, or better than models we've listed, we update our recommendations.
Happy browsing and reach out to me and my team if you have any queries!
All the best,
Tristram - Owner, Cardio Online
The product recommendations we've made here have been thoroughly tested by our own in-house team and in many cases we've brought in fitness professionals, exercise physiologists and physiotherapists to help us compare products and ultimately provide you with the recommendations on this page.
We use our years of fitness equipment expertise and hands-on knowledge from talking to customers on a daily basis, understanding their specific needs and providing product recommendations to thousands of Aussie's every year.
Finding a high-quality rowing machine requires taking a close look at everything from assembly to resistance levels. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting the best option for your needs:
✔️Comfortable seating: A well contoured seat is a must for rowing. Your hips will be moving with each rowing movement
✔️Display: A display that tracks advanced rowing metrics, such as stroke rate and time per 500m, is useful on rowing machine. Some rowers offer more metrics and larger backlit screens than others. Certain units even have smart screens with Bluetooth connectivity.
✔️ Resistance: Looking for a rowing machine that offers a range of resistance levels and a smooth resistance system such as a magnetic one are key for an efficient and effective ride. More advanced machines combine air and magnetic resistance to cater to high end athletes.
✔️Adjustable settings: Ensuring that the footplates are adjustable and easy to strap into can help accommodate a variety of different feet sizes and quick rider changes during HIIT training.
✔️ Special features: Some rowers have wireless heart-rate compatibility that sync up to chest straps, or unique recoil tension adjustments to provide even more customisation
✔️ Dimensions: The most important thing to consider is dimensions of the rowing machine and whether or not it will fit into your home gym space. Most are long but some can be over 2m in length. Look for foldable options if needed.
| Name | Rating | Pros | Cons | Why Buy | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Everfit Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine |
Best Entry-Level Rowing Machine for Beginners |
Very affordable, Magnetic resistance for quiet workouts, High 150kg weight capacity, 130cm row length is great for all users | Pulling tension may be lacking for stronger users, Plastic components are less durable than more expensive models, Basic LCD screen with limited workout data | Ideal for people on a tight budget looking for a basic entry-level rower to start their fitness journey at home. | |
Lifespan Fitness ROWER-445 Rowing Machine |
Best Budget Foldable Rowing Machine for Small Spaces |
Folds in half for amazing storage, Good amount of magnetic resistance levels with adequate pulling tension, 4-roller seat system for smooth movement, Large footplates with Velcro straps | Basic LCD display with limited workout data, 94cm row length may be restrictive for tall users | Perfect for small homes where space-saving is important. Takes a step up in terms of features and performance while staying on a budget. | |
Lifespan Fitness ROWER-500D Dual Air/Magnetic Rowing Machine |
Best Value Rowing Machine for Home |
Hybrid air & magnetic resistance system for superior tension, 32 levels of resistance for users of all abilities, Smart LCD display with lots of workout data, Bluetooth connectivity for Fitlink App and Kinomap App, Wireless Heart Rate compatible | Not foldable so storing may be an issue for some, 94cm row length may be restrictive for tall users | With Bluetooth app connectivity, advanced workout data, excellent range of resistance levels and great pulling tension, the 500D offers everything you need for home use at an unbeatable price point. | |
Lifespan Fitness ROWER-760 Water Resistance Foldable Rowing Machine |
Best Foldable Water Rower |
Natural rowing feeling, Folds in half for easy storage!, Built from solid oak wood for a premium warm feel, LCD comes with a built-in phone holder, Bluetooth compatibility for Fitlink and Kinomap Apps, Ultra smooth 6-roller seat for comfort | Water tank requires regular cleaning, footplate angle is not adjustable, wood may scratch and wear over the lifetime of the product, resistance is continuous and not adjustable | Perfect for users wanting the natural sounds and feel of rowing on water as well as the prestige of an oak water rower. Also comes with Bluetooth and app compatibility at a fantastic price! | |
Lifespan Fitness ROWER-801F Air & Magnetic Rowing Machine |
Best Foldable Rower for Tall and Heavy Users |
Dual air & magnetic resistance for high performance, excellent pulling tension for athletes, Foldable for easy storage, Sturdy steel & aluminium frame, Backlit LCD with wireless Polar HR compatibility, Bluetooth with Fitlink and Kinomap App compatibility. | 12 month replacement parts warranty does not include commercial use, 95cm row length may be limiting for tall users, LCD display lacks advanced workout stats that athletes may need | The 801F offers the best overall bang for your buck. Foldable, high quality, advanced connectivity and excellent performance. It's everything you need for a solid home workout at a very reasonable price! | |
York WR1000 Water Rower |
Best Overall Water Rower for Performance |
Excellent LCD screen with advanced workout data, unique 3-position adjustable recoil control lets you adjust the rowing movement to suit you, lifetime warranty for durability and reassurance, large contoured seat with 6-roller system for comfort and smoothness, 6 levels of adjustable water resistance | Lower weight capacity capacity at 135kg, not foldable, on the pricey end | While on the pricier end, the WR1000 is ideal for those wanting lifetime durability first and foremost. With a lifetime warranty, WR1000 is an excellent long-term investment in your fitness. The adjustable resistance and recoil control are stand out features from other options on the market. | |
Sole SR500 Air/Magnetic Rowing Machine |
Best Commercial Rowing Machine |
Hybrid air & magnetic resistance for excellent resistance range and pull tension, Lifetime commercial warranty, Very high 204kg weight capacity, Long 99cm row length is great for tall users, Foldable for easy storage, excellent LCD display with advanced workout info | Pricey, but you're paying for top commercial quality, Requires external power | The specs of the SR500 speak for themselves, if you're looking for the best performing commercial rower and rowing experience that will literally last a lifetime, this is for you. It's pricey, but we believe the lifetime investment is easily worth it. |
Ideal for people on a tight budget looking for a basic entry-level rower to start their fitness journey at home.
If you're new to rowing and want a simple, easy-to-use machine that won’t break the bank, the Everfit Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine is a great place to start.
It’s designed to help beginners build strength, burn calories, and feel great without feeling overwhelmed. With 10 levels of adjustable resistance, you can start light and level up as you get stronger.
It’s also super quiet, so you won’t wake up the whole house when you’re working out!
The comfy seat and secure foot pedals make each session smooth and stable, and when you're done, it folds up easily so it won’t take over your space.
If you're ready to start your fitness journey with a rowing machine that’s easy, effective, and affordable, this one is a winner!
Pros
Cons
| Flywheel | 5.5kg |
| Row Length | 130cm |
| Dimensions | 208.5 x 48 x 58.5cm |
| Weight Capacity | 150kg |
| Resistance Levels | 10 manual settings |
| Brake System | Magnetic resistance |
| Warranty | 12 Months |
Perfect for small homes where space-saving is important. Takes a step up in terms of features and performance while staying on a budget.
If you want a great rowing workout but don’t have a lot of space (or cash to spend), the Lifespan Fitness ROWER-445 is a perfect pick!
It’s light, foldable, and easy to store, so you can set it up when you need it and tuck it away when you're done—perfect for small apartments or home gyms.
Even though it’s affordable, it still gives you a smooth, effective rowing experience with adjustable magnetic resistance, so you can make your workouts easier or harder as you get stronger.
The comfy seat and secure foot straps help you stay steady, and it’s super quiet, so you can row anytime without waking up the whole house.
If you need a compact, budget-friendly rowing machine that still delivers a solid workout, the ROWER-445 is a great choice!
Pros
Cons
| Resistance Levels | 16 adjustable settings |
| Drive System | Silent belt drivetrain |
| User Weight Capacity | 160kg |
| LCD Display | Time, calories, row count |
| Dimensions | Foldable for space-saving storage |
| Warranty | 12-month parts replacement |
With Bluetooth app connectivity, advanced workout data, excellent range of resistance levels and great pulling tension, the 500D offers everything you need for home use at an unbeatable price point.
If you want a gym-quality rowing machine without spending a fortune, the Lifespan Fitness ROWER-500D is an awesome choice!
It gives you the best of both worlds with air and magnetic resistance, so your workout feels smooth and natural, but also gets harder the faster you row—just like real rowing!
With 16 resistance levels, you can start easy and level up as you get stronger. It’s built to last, with a sturdy frame, comfy seat, and adjustable foot pedals to keep you feeling secure and supported.
Plus, it folds up neatly, so you won’t have to worry about it taking over your space.
And here’s the coolest part—it has Bluetooth connectivity, so you can track your progress and stay motivated with fitness apps!
If you want a top-quality, feature-packed rower at an amazing price, the ROWER-500D is a winner!
Pros
Cons
| Resistance Levels | 32 adjustable settings |
| Frame Material | Tubular steel and aluminium |
| User Weight Capacity | 150kg |
| Display | Smart LCD for workout tracking |
| Warranty | 12-month parts replacement |
Perfect for users wanting the natural sounds and feel of rowing on water as well as the prestige of an oak water rower. Also comes with Bluetooth and app compatibility at a fantastic price!
If you want a rowing machine that feels just like rowing on a real lake, but don’t have a ton of space, the Lifespan Fitness ROWER-760 Water Rowing Machine is the perfect pick.
Its water resistance system gives you that smooth, natural feeling, where the harder you pull, the more challenge you get—just like paddling through real water!
Plus, you can see and hear the water swishing in the tank, making your workout feel even more realistic.
The best part? Unlike most water rowers, this one folds up easily, so you can store it away when you’re done.
With a sturdy frame, comfy seat, and secure foot straps, you’ll feel stable and supported every time you row. If you want a fun, realistic, and space-saving rowing machine, this is the one to get!
Pros
Cons
| Resistance System | Natural water resistance |
| Frame Material | Elegant oak |
| User Weight Capacity | 200kg |
| Display | Integrated LCD with phone holder |
| Storage | Foldable for compact spaces |
| Warranty | 12-month parts replacement |
The 801F offers the best overall bang for your buck. Foldable, high quality, advanced connectivity and excellent performance. It's everything you need for a solid home workout at a very reasonable price!
If you’re tall, strong, or just want a super sturdy rowing machine, the Lifespan Fitness ROWER-801F is made for you!
This rower is bigger, tougher, and built to handle intense workouts, so you can push your limits without worrying about wobbling or feeling cramped.
It has a longer rail to fit taller users and a strong frame that supports heavier weights, making it perfect for anyone who needs extra space and durability.
The air and magnetic resistance system gives you smooth but powerful strokes, so you can feel the burn and build serious strength.
Even with its heavy-duty design, it still folds up neatly, so you don’t have to sacrifice space.
If you need a reliable, gym-quality rower that’s built for bigger, stronger users, the ROWER-801F is the best choice!
Pros
Cons
| Resistance Levels | 16 adjustable settings |
| Frame Material | Tubular steel and aluminium |
| User Weight Capacity | 180kg |
| Display | Backlit LCD with workout data |
| Preset Programs | 10 options |
| Warranty | 12-month parts replacement |
While on the pricier end, the WR1000 is ideal for those wanting lifetime durability first and foremost. With a lifetime warranty, WR1000 is an excellent long-term investment in your fitness. The adjustable resistance and recoil control are stand out features from other options on the market.
If you’re looking for a powerful, high-performance water rower, the York WR1000 Water Rower is the ultimate choice for serious workouts.
It’s built to mimic real rowing, with adjustable water resistance that gets tougher the harder you pull, just like rowing on a real lake.
Unlike basic water rowers, this one has 6 adjustable resistance levels, so you can fine-tune your workout intensity to match your fitness level.
The adjustable recoil tension also controls how fast the handle returns, letting you row at your own pace while keeping your strokes smooth and controlled.
With a sturdy frame, smooth-gliding seat, and secure foot straps, you’ll feel stable and supported, even during intense sessions.
Plus, the see-through water tank lets you see and hear the water swirl as you row, making your workout feel immersive and energizing.
If you want the best water rower for power, control, and real rowing feel, the York WR1000 is the one to beat!
Pros
Cons
| Resistance Levels | 6 adjustable settings |
| Recoil adjustments | 3 levels of recoil adjustment |
| Console | Large LCD with advanced workout data |
| Frame Material | Durable with foldable design |
| User Weight Capacity | 135kg |
| Transport | Built-in wheels for mobility |
| Warranty | Lifetime on frame, 12 months on parts |
The specs of the SR500 speak for themselves, if you're looking for the best performing commercial rower and an luxurious-feel rowing experience that will literally last a lifetime, this is for you. It's pricey, but we believe the lifetime investment is easily worth it.
If you want a rowing machine that feels just like the ones in top gyms, the Sole SR500 Air/Magnetic Rowing Machine is the best commercial-grade rower you can get.
It’s built super strong to handle intense, everyday workouts, whether you’re a beginner or a serious athlete.
The air and magnetic resistance combo gives you a smooth but powerful stroke, so you can push yourself harder and get faster results.
Plus, with 16 resistance levels, you can adjust your workout to match your fitness goals—whether you want a light cardio session or an all-out power workout.
The extra-long rail makes it perfect for taller users, and the comfortable seat and sturdy foot pedals keep you stable and supported.
If you’re looking for a gym-quality rower that will last for years and help you crush your fitness goals, the Sole SR500 is the best of the best!
Pros
Cons
| Resistance Levels | 16 adjustable settings |
| Console | 5.5” backlit LCD with multiple programs |
| Flywheel | 3.5 kg flywheel |
| User Weight Capacity | 204kg |
| Resistance system | Dual Air and Magnetic resistance system |
| Rail | Long aluminium for all heights |
| Programs | 13 including heart rate control |
| Foldable | Yes, folds in half |
| Connectivity | Wireless Heart Rate chest strap compatible |
| Warranty | Lifetime commercial warranty on frame, 1 year on parts |
The best rowing machine for home use depends on your workout needs. Consider factors like resistance type, noise level, storage options, and user capacity to find the best fit.
Air rowers adjust resistance with fan blades, water rowers offer smooth resistance through water, and magnetic rowers provide consistent and quiet resistance.
Most rowing machines require a space of at least 8 feet in length and 2 feet in width. Foldable models can be stored upright to save space.
Yes, rowing machines are great for beginners. They offer low-impact workouts that can be adjusted for intensity, making them suitable for various fitness levels.
Rowing machines provide a full-body workout that burns calories, improves cardiovascular health, and can aid in weight loss when combined with a healthy diet.
For general fitness, aim for 3 to 5 sessions of 20-30 minutes per week. Adjust frequency and intensity based on your fitness goals.
Yes, rowing machines engage multiple muscle groups, including legs, arms, back, and core, providing an excellent strength-training workout.
