Investing in one of the best budget rowing machines money can buy is a famously effective way of getting close to a whole-body workout. But on the other hand, it can be a daunting prospect to part with a chunky sum of money in return for a piece of home gym equipment you aren’t sure about or familiar with. After all, we're talking about a real piece of precisely-engineered machinery, not an exercise mat.
Budget rowing machines often make large claims and throw in lots of bells and whistles. But few live up to the hype, thanks to cheaper and flimsier parts. But our experts have found that finding a good rowing machine for well under £500 isn't an impossible task. With the right budget in mind, you might even have enough cash left over for extra kit, like a stepper machine or cleaning supplies to keep your machines shiny and safe to use.
Best budget rowing machines of 2024 at a glance:
• Best overall budget rowing machine: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine - view at Amazon
• Best budget rowing machine for tall users: Pro Fitness Air and Magnetic Rowing Machine - view at Argos
• Best low-noise budget rowing machine: Dripex Magnetic Rowing Machine - view at OnBuy
Much like the ever-popular home treadmills marketplace, there's a massive choice of well-made budget rowers out there. They don’t come packed with features but put the emphasis on quality build and components instead. But which one will suit your available space and have the sort of features you prefer? You might be new to rowing machines and need to understand more about the type of machines that exist before you choose, or a seasoned rower who needs the most robust machine over electronic gadgetry.
Luckily, we're here to help with our run-down of the benefits of rowing machines, as well as answers to some of your frequently asked questions. And, of course, our pick of the very best budget rowing machines available this year to kick start your 2024 New Year's resolutions.
New year, new you? The best budget rowing machines of 2024
Best overall budget rowing machine
Description
A user-friendly rower at its most basic. Unlike most rowing machines, this uses a hydraulic cylinder to generate all 12 levels of resistance.
There's a digital monitor too, and a wide well-cushioned seat for comfort. Handlebars also have excellent non-slip covers, and the pedals have the obligatory adjustable strap. If you want something small that has the features you need, this is it.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Sturdy construction as the machine is made from heavy duty grade steel
- Ultimate comfort with the pivoting foot pedals, foam handlebars and cushioned seat
Cons
- Not ideal for 6ft+ people
The best budget folding rowing machine
AmazonDescription
If you need an excellent rowing machine that can fit into your home life, then look no further. The Fit4home does exactly what it says on the tin, it's foldable, light, and looks great. It's perhaps not the best shout if you're after high demand, extreme workouts. This is based on the resistance levels not going as high as other machines
Pros
- Highly portable and convenient
- Great for women
Cons
- Not suited for intense use
The best budget Dripex Rowing Machine
Description
Dripex is a leader in developing high-end rowing machines as the standard. They make a range of equipment varying in the price ranges. This 2023 model is one of the best you can pick up for the price currently. It’s easily assembled and a breeze to use. We only wish the seat was a little more on the comfortable side.
Pros
- Easy to put together
- Well-built, sturdy
Cons
- Seat could be more comfortable
Best budget rowing machine for tall users
www.argos.co.uk
Description
The air and magnetic resistance on this rowing machine gives you eight levels of resistance to choose from by adjusting the air outlet. Though not as quiet as a magnetic machine, it isn't too bad. It's worth having in a closed-off dedicated space, however. It's almost two metres long which is noticeably more than those above, but it does allow for users up to about 6ft 4. It comes with a one-year manufacturer's guarantee.
Pros
- Space-saving as it folds for storage
- Great accessibility as it's good for most heights
- Magnetic resistance system with 8 level tension control for individuals of all fitness levels
Cons
- No AAA batteries are supplied for the screen
Best low-noise budget rowing machine
www.onbuy.com
Description
With 15 different resistance settings, this Dripex rowing machine will be perfect for anyone, regardless of their ability. The near-silent sliding rails are great, as is the shock absorber that will make sure you are comfortable as you exercise. It also comes with an LCD monitor, so you know how your exercise session is going.
Pros
- Bluetooth compatible with app to make the exercise routine more fun and motivating
- Double aluminium railway for a smooth ride and silent when completing at home workouts
- Comes with built-in transportation wheels for easy moving
Cons
- Not the best for those with small feet
Best super low-budget rowing machine
www.argos.co.uk
Description
Offering 12 tension settings, this Opti manual rowing machine is a great option no matter your ability. It's one of the more compact options and can be folded up when not in use. It's suitable for anyone, regardless of their height too. A faux leather seat offers greater comfort, meaning you'll be able to exercise for longer. A small console keeps track of your strokes, minutes, time and calories burnt. An excellent all-round option for beginners and those with little space to spare.
Pros
- Console feedback including: scan, strokes, minutes, time and calories burned for real-time feedback
- Faux leather seat for an enjoyable workout
- Suitable for everyone as it has no height limit
Cons
- Underwhelming weight limit (100g)
Best budget rowing machine for comfort
AmazonDescription
Magnetic machines are smooth but rowers that use water resistance give the most realistic simulation of rowing. Like air machines, it's also very reliable. On this unit, the screen is adjustable to suit your height, and the wide seat is very comfortable. Adding to the comfort features here are some nicely adjustable pedals. Just be aware that this is also a larger unit thanks to the water barrel, but it does have wheels at the end to make it easier to move. There's even an adjustable iPad holder.
Pros
- Water Flywheel to replicate the experience of rowing in water, crafted to ensure a peaceful workout
- Features a large padded seat and the best in-class dual aluminium rail system for comfort while exercising
- Minimal strain on joints and the lower back due to the rower's smooth, even stroke
Cons
- Weaker display than many
The best budget rowing machine with tablet stand
Description
The Neezee Rowing Machine is a serious contender for one of the best budget rowing machines available. It’s easy to set up, and when it’s set up, it’s a sturdy bit of kit. For the budget it offers an excellent tablet stand that can adjust to a range of tablet dimensions. One of our few gripes is that the foot plates are on the larger side, so smaller feet might struggle with strapping in.
Pros
- Very sturdy universal tablet stand
- Runs smoothly using actual water resistance
Cons
- Foot plates might be too large for smaller feet
Best budget hydraulic rowing machine
Argoswww.argos.co.uk
Description
The Opti Multi Rowing Machine offers a comprehensive workout with multiple resistance levels, ensuring both beginners and fitness enthusiasts can enhance their cardiovascular health and strengthen muscles efficiently in the comfort of their own home.
You're getting some serious value here, as well as an extremely unique home workout experience.
Pros
- Superb value for money
- Includes intuitive mini console
- Ultimate comfort with the pivoting foot pedals, foam handlebars and cushioned seat
Cons
- Not ideal for those over 6ft
Best budget rowing machine for calorie burning
Decathlonwww.decathlon.co.uk
Description
The DOMYOS Folding Rowing Machine 100 is a compact, foldable option perfect for home gyms. It features adjustable resistance, ergonomic design, and a smooth glide rail, ideal for enhancing cardiovascular fitness and muscle toning with minimal space requirement.
This is said to be a super calorie burner, offering the perfect platform for those intense sessions. It'll make a great addition to the home with its ergonomic and purposeful build.
Pros
- Built for efficient and maximised home calorie burning
- Lightweight and highly portable
- Comfortable and easy to live with
Cons
- Resistance bands could be stronger
Best budget rowing machines for 2024: Buyer's guide
Consider the right functions and features for you
Make yourself familiar with what components really matter on a rowing machine. If you’re a beginner, it isn’t overly important how many programs and functions a rowing machine has. What you want is a machine that is ergonomic to use and is built well. For example, taller people over six feet will need to make sure the slide rail is long enough for them to row comfortably. A great way to do this is to read buyers’ reviews.
Space to store and while using
If you're on the hunt for a rowing machine, you've probably earmarked space in your house for it already. If you haven’t, best to do that before you buy. If space is at a premium, you might already be looking at various solutions like under-desk exercise machines. Thankfully, many rowing machines fold up for compact storage, but you won’t want to be doing this after every use because it becomes a chore.
It’s best you have a dedicated zone for a rowing machine, with about half a metre of free space on all sides so you can row with the proper technique. We've included dimensions in the specifications of each machine.
Understand the benefits of using the best budget rowing machines
The benefits of using a rowing machine occur all over your body. Different muscles are used throughout different stages of each stroke (see the diagram below). But because the action of rowing is simultaneously aerobic and anaerobic, rowing machines help build cardio and stamina, as well as muscle strength. Much like home cross trainers, rowing machines are also kinder on your joints than weights, because of the smooth action and absence of severe weight resistance. Therefore, rowing machines are great for injury recovery, too.
This diagram also helps to show you how to use a rowing machine. You begin with bent knees, with your back as straight as you can, and grip the handle with palms down. As you drive, you simultaneously straighten your legs and pull the bar in a smooth action. Your finishing position consists of fully extended legs, shoulders back, and the bar pulled to your stomach/upper abs. In the recovery, your arms straighten, your legs bend, and the seat slides down the rail to the catch position.
Much like with home exercise bikes and other machines of this type, it’s advisable to keep to lower resistance settings, particularly in the early stages of using a rowing machine while your muscles tone and strengthen as they get used to the exercise. It’s also crucial to stretch beforehand. Too much resistance and failing to warm up prior to a workout can very easily result in muscle strains and injuries. Take it easy, focus on technique, and enjoy the benefits of greater fitness.
Best budget rowing machines for 2024: Frequently asked questions
What is the best budget rowing machine?
As always, this is going to come down to the things you value the most in your home gym equipment. Some will prefer to spend more on high-tech features whereas others shopping in the budget category prefer to put their money into the overall robustness of the build. If you can push your budget a little further to get the perfect combination of features you want plus comfort and build quality, you're onto a winner.
Is rowing better for weight loss than running?
These two forms of exercise are both excellent cardiovascular workouts. Running does tend to burn more calories though, due to having to support your own weight. That said, where the arms and torso are concerned, rowing is a much better fuller body workout.
How long should a beginner spend on a rowing machine?
As with all forms of exercise, it's better to start with small, achievable goals and work upward from there at a gentle pace. 10 minutes or so for the first week or two is a good rule of thumb. Never over-exert yourself and always stop if you feel unwell.
Which is better, air, water or magnetic rowing machines?
This is down to personal preference. If it's realism you're after, water rowing machines are your best option. They offer a more natural feel to the resistance as you row. Magnetic rowers emulate this quite well, but have a more linear feel to them. They are, though, easily adjustable. Air rowers are a great budget option as they're cost-effective to manufacture. The resistance offered by air is, again, a different feel to the other two. If in doubt, visit a friend or local gym to test these different rowing machine technologies out before you buy.
Chris Williams is an Automotive Content Writer, writing across Parkers and CAR Magazine and contributing to What’s The Best.
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