The Best Compact Rowing Machines for Small Spaces

A smaller footprint doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Here’s a list of the best compact rowing machines that have some great features and can suit your needs.

iStock

The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. Sports Illustrated editorial staff are not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.

Rowing machines can give you a full-body workout with a focus on cardio or strength training. You can choose between rowing for a long duration or doing short intervals utilizing the resistance settings to up your intensity. Rowing machines are relatively simple to use, meaning they’re great for beginners and experienced fitness fanatics alike. They’re also good for incorporating other movements into your workout, such as kettlebell swings, because they’re easy to get on and off.

If you’re limited on space, don’t let the length of a rowing machine deter you. While there are many great rowing machines on the market, there are also some awesome compact alternatives that offer all the same tech features you’ll find in other cardio machines. It’s important to consider your goals, space and budget when trying to find the best option for your home.

During our search for the best compact rowing machine, we found an array of excellent standalone options and options that fit in well with other home gym equipment. We considered the overall footprint, storage options and other key features, along with scouring the reviews to see what users had to say about each product. Below is our list of what we consider to be the best compact home rowing machines available to suit a variety of needs and a comprehensive guide to help you find the best compact rowing machine for your space.

Our Picks for the Best Compact Rowing Machines:

• Best Overall Compact Rowing Machine: Hydrow Wave
• Highest-Rated Compact Rowing Machine: Aviron Impact Series Rower
• Best Compact Rowing Machine for HIIT Workouts: Sole SR500
• Best Compact Rowing Machine with Trainer-Led Workouts: NordicTrack RW700
• Best Compact Rowing Machine to Gamify Your Workouts: Aviron Strong Series Rower
• Best Dual Function Compact Rowing Machine: Ski-Row Dual Function Erg
• Best Foldable Compact Rowing Machine: ProForm Pro R10
• Best Compact Rowing Machine for Cross-Training: Echelon Row-s
• Best Portable Compact Rowing Machine: Sole SR500
• Best Value Compact Rowing Machine: NordicTrack RW600

Best Overall Compact Rowing Machine: Hydrow Wave

Hydrow

Key Features:

• Specs: 80 inches length x 19 inches width x 43 inches height
• Type of Resistance: Electromagnetic
• Price: $1,895
• Subscription: Not required, a Hydrow subscription is $44 per month
• Storage: Upright (upright storage kit sold separately)
• Weight limit: 375 pounds

On the Hydrow website, the Hydrow Wave is rated 4.7/5 stars with over 9,000 reviews at the time of writing. It’s the brand’s compact, budget-friendly option for those who want to elevate their at-home workout routine. The length is just 80 inches, which is the shortest on this list, and the overall size is 30 percent shorter than the original Hydrow Rower. You cannot fold it, but there is the option to store it upright using The Hydrow Wave Vertical Anchor. This is a wall mounted strap that holds the rower upright and costs an additional $190, which is a bit on the pricey side.

The frame is made of aluminum and steel. It has a flat anthracite polymer body, which is a durable and lightweight material. The handle has an ergonomic design for a low-stress grip, and the strap is made from water and rot resistant polyester webbing. It also has a patented electromagnetic drag system that mimics the experience of rowing on open water.

Overall, the reviews on the Hydrow website are positive, and many mention how quiet the machine is and how much they like the small footprint. One review says, “The machine is such great quality. It's quiet and sleek looking.” The critical reviews make up three percent of the overall reviews and state issues like non-working parts being delivered. However, Hydrow has responded to each review to resolve any issues.

Pros:

• Aluminum and steel frame with a flat anthracite polymer body
• Can sync to Strava or Apple Health apps
• Available in five colors
• Patented electromagnetic drag system

Cons:

• Vertical anchor for upright storage is an additional cost
• Maximum user height is six feet

Highest-Rated Compact Rowing Machine: Aviron Impact Series Rower

Aviron

Key Features:

• Specs: 97 inches length x 21 inches width x 62 inches height
• Type of Resistance: Air and magnetic
• Price: $1,899
• Subscription: Not required, but an Aviron subscription is $29 per month
• Storage: Folding
• Weight limit: 397 pounds

If you need a rower that's designed to last long-term, the Aviron Impact Series Rower is constructed with durable steel and aluminum. Despite the heavy-duty construction, the rower itself weighs 97 pounds. After your workout, it can be folded in half and stored as needed using the four wheels.

The seat height is 20 inches from the ground to make mounting and dismounting easier. As you settle in to row, the footplate can be adjusted to a comfortable length. The handlebar is 19 inches wide and rotates to keep your wrist in a neutral position during each stroke. You can use the immersive 22-inch touchscreen for a class workout if you opt for an Aviron membership for $29 a month, or you can do a workout on a rowing app. The Workout History section gives you insight into metrics like output, calories burned, average strokes per minute and more.

The Aviron Impact Series Rower is equipped with a dual air and magnetic resistance system. Air resistance gives the user a more “real feel,” mimicking what open water rowing feels like. The magnetic resistance functions as a strength builder and has a maximum resistance of 100 pounds. Instead of the commonly used chain belt, this rower has a nylon belt that Aviron says helps keep the sound output at 60 decibels. One reviewer on the Aviron website says, “As someone who lives in an apartment, it is quiet & fits perfectly in the corner of a room.” Overall, the reviews are favorable, and many users mention how much they enjoy the community aspect they get from an Aviron subscription.

Pros:

• Maximum height of six feet seven inches can accommodate a variety of users
• Handlebar gives the option for a wide or narrow grip
• Resistance up to 100 pounds
• Foldable design and wheels make it easy to store

Cons:

• Rail may be too long for some spaces
• Extending the limited parts warranty is an additional $200 for two years or $300 for three years

Best Compact Rowing Machine for HIIT Workouts: Sole SR500

Sole Fitness

Key Features:

• Specs: 94 inches length x 18 inches width x 46 inches height
• Type of Resistance: Air and magnetic
• Price: $749.99
• Subscription: Not required, Studio subscription option is $19.99 per month
• Storage: Folding
• Weight limit: 515 pounds

The Sole SR500 has 16 levels of resistance for you to utilize during your daily HIIT workout. The 5.5-inch LCD has 11 standard programs to choose from. This indoor rowing machine can track your heart rate, but unfortunately, the chest strap will need to be purchased separately. The display also tracks your calories burned, resistance level, distance and other metrics throughout your training. The rower handle has resistance adjustment buttons so you won’t need to stop rowing to increase or decrease the resistance.

The aluminum rail is 94 inches long, which is a good length for taller users and those who are limited on space. It also has a weight limit of 515 pounds, making it a great option for those with heavier body types. This rowing machine has air and magnetic resistance, which are utilized to provide the user with a smooth experience. One reviewer on Amazon describes it as, “Smooth, quiet and comfortable.” Several critical reviews did mention that it was a bit challenging to put together due to some assembly holes not lining up correctly, so that could be a factor to keep in mind.

When not in use, the Sole SR500 can be folded and tucked into a corner using the transport wheels in the front of the machine.

Pros:

• Simplistic display
• Seat height is 20 inches
• Adjustable foot pedals
• Resistance can be adjusted from the handle

Cons:

• Limited number of built-in programs
• Chest strap to track heart rate is not included

Best Compact Rowing Machine with Trainer-Led Workouts: NordicTrack RW700

Dick’s Sporting Goods

Key Features:

• Specs: 87 inches length x 22 inches width x 47 inches height
• Type of Resistance: Magnetic
• Price: $1,499
• Subscription: Required, compatible iFIT membership is $39 per month
• Storage: Can be moved using the front wheels
• Weight limit: 250 pounds

The NordicTrack RW700 has a 10-inch HD touchscreen you can tilt and pivot to follow along with an iFIT workout led by your favorite trainer on or off the rower. Trainer-led workouts are an additional $39 per month, and you’ll have access to live and on-demand classes. Membership is not required to use the rower; however, you won’t have access to trainer-led classes without it.

A trainer-led rowing workout gives you the option to row on the open water for a more scenic experience, and there are also studio sessions. The resistance is adjusted automatically among 26 resistance levels during each class, so you don’t need to worry about stopping to make changes. The oversized foot pedals have adjustable nylon foot straps with quick release, which is excellent for those who want to incorporate movements off the rower into their workout.

The rail is 87 inches long and made from durable steel. It has an inertia-enhanced flywheel, so as you glide along, it should maintain a smooth rotation. If you have a shared space, the NordicTrack RW700 rower has a magnetic resistance system that creates tension against the flywheel without touching, making it a more quiet option. After your workout, this magnetic rowing machine can be moved using the front wheels, but it can't be folded.

Related Post: NordicTrack RW900 Review: Is This the Best Indoor Rowing Machine?

Pros:

• Bluetooth compatible
• Resistance is automatically adjusted during trainer-led workouts
• Large foot pedals
• Oversized steel seat rail

Cons:

• Can't be folded
• Weight capacity only 250 pounds

Best Compact Rowing Machine to Gamify Your Workouts: Aviron Strong Series Rower

Aviron

Key Features:

• Specs: 84 inches length x 27 inches width x 48 inches height
• Type of Resistance: Air and magnetic
• Price: $2,199
• Subscription: Required, an Aviron subscription is $29 per month
• Storage: Upright
• Weight limit: 507 pounds

Want to add some fun to your workout routine? The Aviron Strong Series Rower has a series of games that Aviron subscribers can play for an extra $29 per month. These are structured workouts that make you feel like you’re playing a game because you’ll work to complete an objective or gain points. After choosing from the four levels of difficulty, you’ll see a quick summary of what the game entails. You'll also have the option to host a room to play against your friends, or you can play on your own. If you’re feeling competitive, you can view the high score of other players. The more you use your Aviron rower, the more experience coins you can earn, which can be spent on customizing your game.

The Aviron Strong Series Rower is a sturdy machine, and at seven feet long, it’s ideal for smaller spaces. It can be stored upright and does not require any wall mounts. The padded seat is 20 inches from the ground, which makes it easy to get on and off. There’s a crank that adjusts the width of the foot pedals to be more aligned with your hips and body type. If you prefer to have extra lumbar support, there is a lumbar support kit available for $129.

Once you start your workout, the air resistance system works to keep each stride feeling smooth, and the gills on both sides of the machine direct the airflow towards you to keep you from overheating. The magnetic resistance system allows you to add up to 100 pounds of resistance.

Pros:

• Screen can be rotated for off-rower exercises
• Adjustable foot width
• Steel rail
• Max weight limit is 507 pounds

Cons:

• Expensive

Best Dual Function Compact Rowing Machine: Ski-Row Dual Function Erg

REP Fitness

Key Features:

• Specs: 103 inches length x 35 inches width x 54 inches height
• Type of Resistance: Air
• Price: $1,699
• Subscription: No subscription is available, users can utilize built-in programs
• Storage: Folding
• Weight limit: 350 pounds

The Ski-Row Dual Function Erg is two machines for the size and price of one. A small foot pedal allows you to switch between rowing and skiing. To save space, you’ll want to store it in the ski position, which keeps the rail from taking up space on the floor. However, it’s 84 inches tall, so that could be a factor to keep in mind if you have lower ceilings.

The rail is made from rust-proof aluminum, and there is a gas-assist cylinder to help raise and lower it. The Ski-Row Dual Function Erg has a platform built-in to keep it stable while you ski, but it also takes up slightly more space. One unique feature is that the resistance can be adjusted using a damper that controls the airflow to increase or decrease the difficulty. The screen has a simplistic display that records seven different metrics and has five different workout programs to choose from.

Pros:

• Rower and ski erg for the price of one machine
• No internet connection needed
• Foot pedal to raise and lower rail

Cons:

• No phone holder
• Base takes up more space than other rowers

Best Foldable Compact Rowing Machine: ProForm Pro R10

BestBuy

Key Features:

• Specs: 86.5 inches length x 22 inches width x 45.5 inches height
• Type of Resistance: Magnetic
• Price: $1,403
• Subscription: Not required, compatible iFIT subscription is $39 per month
• Storage: Folding
• Weight limit: 250 pounds

The ProForm Pro R10 can collapse into a more compact size by lifting the handle, and the front-mounted transport wheels make it easy to move. It comes equipped with a 10-inch Smart HD touchscreen that you can use for iFIT workouts if you choose to subscribe, or you can track your watts, calories burned, time, strokes and distance in the manual mode. There are 24 resistance levels to choose from, and your workout intensity is adjusted using the brand’s trademarked Silent Magnetic Resistance system. This gives the user the option to have a more cardio or strength-focused workout.

The flywheel has been designed to maintain inertia and rotate smoothly, and the steel rail is oversized to help keep you stable. The large, pivoting foot pedals with adjustable nylon straps keep your feet in place, and the seat is molded with comfort in mind.

Related Post: The ProForm 750R Rower Delivers a Quiet, Space-Saving Workout

Pros:

• Multi-position adjustable handlebars
• Designed to save space
• Steel rail is extra wide
• Inertia-enhanced flywheel

Cons:

• Weight limit may be too low for some users

Best Compact Rowing Machine for Cross-Training: Echelon Row-s

Echelon

Key Features:

• Specs: 84 inches length x 21 inches width x 47 inches height
• Type of Resistance: Magnetic
• Price: $1,599.99
• Subscription: Not required, an Echelon Fit subscription is $34.99 per month
• Storage: Folding
• Weight limit: 300 pounds

If you like to incorporate other movements into your rowing workout or train off the rower, the Echelon Row-s has a 22-inch HD touchscreen that can be flipped 180 degrees. While an Echelon Fit subscription is not required, the extra $34.99 per month gives you access to over 40 live classes and more than 1,000 on-demand workouts from their library that include rowing, biking, running and functional training classes.

The ergonomic design of the seat and the ability to adjust the foot platforms to a comfortable position helps you maintain proper posture and alignment. If you’re short on space, the length goes from 84 inches long to just 41 inches long when folded. On the Echelon website, this rower is rated 4.5/5 stars. Reviewer Brett P. says, “The machine looks great, operates very quietly, and gives a great workout no matter your level.”

Pros:

• Resistance can be adjusted from the handlebar
• Bluetooth compatible
• Magnetic resistance
• Large, immersive touch screen can be flipped 180 degrees

Cons:

• Extended warranty coverage is an additional $149 for one year or $229 for two years

Best Portable Compact Rowing Machine: Sole SR500

Sole Fitness

Key Features:

• Specs: 94 inches length x 18 inches width x 46 inches height
• Type of Resistance: Air and magnetic
• Price: $749.99
• Subscription: Not required, a Studio subscription is $19.99 per month
• Storage: Folding
• Weight limit: 515 pounds

The Sole SR500 can be folded, and all 115 pounds can be moved around easily using the built-in wheels. Despite the machine being on the lighter side, it has a max weight capacity of 515 pounds making it suitable for a variety of body types. Due to the high sitting position, getting on and off takes less effort. The pedals can be adjusted to fit different heel angles so you feel comfortable.

It uses a combination of air and magnetic resistance, which is designed to give you an “on the water” experience while staying quiet. Resistance can be adjusted from the handlebar, so you won’t need to stop your workout to make changes.

The simplistic 5.5-inch display has 11 standard programs built in. If you want to follow workouts on the Studio app for $19.99 per month, they’ll need to be followed using your device, and there is no device holder on this machine. During your workout, the screen displays your metrics, which include strokes per minute, total time, distance, calories burned, watts, resistance level and heart rate (if you have a compatible device).

Pros:

• Maximum weight capacity is 515 pounds
• Low price tag
• Resistance can be adjusted from the handlebar

Cons:

• No phone or tablet holder

Best Value Compact Rowing Machine: NordicTrack RW600

NordicTrack

Key Features:

• Specs: 87.02 inches length x 22 inches width x 47.24 inches height
• Type of Resistance: Air and magnetic
• Price: $999
• Subscription: Not required, compatible iFIT subscription is $39 per month
• Storage: Folding
• Weight limit: 250 pounds

The NordicTrack RW600 balances great tech features and an accessible price, making it a great value. The 10-inch screen is an excellent option for those who want to take instructor-led classes using an iFIT membership. NordicTrack’s patented Silent Magnetic Resistance can be adjusted up to 26 levels automatically in an iFIT class or manually as needed.

The pivoting foot pedals are oversized, and the nylon straps keep your feet secure. The handlebar has a soft grip, and the molded seat is designed to help you feel comfortable. When your workout is finished, the NordicTrack RW600 can be folded and stored out of the way.

Pros:

• Air and magnetic resistance
• Front-mounted transport wheels make it maneuverable
• Adjustable console
• Inertia-enhanced flywheel

Cons:

• Maximum weight capacity is 250 pounds

How to Choose the Best Compact Rowing Machine for You

Footprint

Once you’ve decided on your rower location, it’s a good idea to measure the length, width and height of your space to determine what size of machine works best. The reason you’ll want to measure height is to see if you have enough clearance for rowers that can be stored in the upright position. Take note if you’ll need a rower that you can fold or store upright.

Budget

After measuring, think about how much you’re willing to spend taking into consideration any additional costs such as a monthly subscription. Some rowers also have add-ons for purchase, such as a lumbar support system or seat upgrade.

Features

Whether or not to choose a machine with extra features depends on your personal preferences and needs. Ask yourself: How many levels of resistance do I need? Am I looking for an HD touchscreen with trainer-led classes or do I prefer a more simplistic display? Other features such as a magnetic resistance system may be important if you're in a shared space and need a more quiet machine. The rower’s maximum height and/or weight capacity may also play a role in your decision as well.

How We Chose the Best Compact Rowing Machines

The rowing machines included in this list were carefully selected based on what most users would want out of a rowing machine, keeping in mind that they needed to have a smaller footprint and folding or upright storage options. We evaluated each choice based on size, portability, cost, high-tech features, versatility and durability. We also scoured the reviews to see what users had to say about each rowing machine.

Benefits of a Rowing Workout

Rowing allows you to implement low-impact, cardio-based training, and you can adjust the resistance for a strength-focused session. It’s a full-body workout that uses 86 percent of your muscles. With each stroke, you’re using your core and legs for the initial pull and finishing the rowing movement by using your upper body. Since you’re in a seated position, there's less pressure on your knee and ankle joints.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) says that getting all four types of exercise (endurance, strength, balance and flexibility) has benefits, and a rowing machine can be utilized for two types: endurance and strength. Many rowing machines have built-in programs or subscriptions that offer classes geared toward building strength and endurance.

Compact Rowing Machine FAQs

How much does a compact rowing machine cost?

Depending on the quality and features offered, the machines on this list range from just over $700 to around $2,000. You can find a rower in your price range, but if you opt for a rower under, say, $200, you may be compromising quality.

How long are compact rowing machines compared to regular rowing machines?

Typically, rowing machine length ranges between six to nine feet with more compact options at six- or seven-feet long.

What is the best level of resistance for a good rowing workout?

The level of resistance that’s best for you depends on your fitness level, experience and goals. Overall, you don’t want your workout to be too easy or so challenging that you don’t accomplish the goal of your training session.

What are the different types of resistance on a compact rowing machine?

Compact rowing machines have air or magnetic resistance, and some options implement both.

Final Thoughts

Rowing is a great way to build strength and endurance while working various muscle groups. There are choices to suit a variety of budgets with different storage options and sizes. Figuring out how much space you have, your price range and the features you’d like will help you choose the best compact rowing machine for you.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.