Best Rowing Machines Under $2000 in 2023

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Reviewed and Compared By BEMH Indoor Rowing Team • Updated: January 2023

Rowing machines have a lot of benefits. They offer a complete body workout like few other machines do. It’s a low impact exercise and it’s incredibly easy to learn. They can be used to lose weight or to bulk up muscles. Whether you want to focus more on aerobics or on strength, a rowing machine is great.

When you’ve made the decision to buy a rowing machine or any other type of exercise equipment, it can be difficult to choose which one is right for your needs. There are multiple things to take into consideration, such as noise, space, and control options. Most people don’t want a loud machine that will annoy neighbors or family, and most want a compact rowing machine.

It should also be an ergo rowing machine to help you keep track of your progress, especially for those who have a goal in mind. There are options out there that range from giving you the basic information of your workout to displaying all sorts of information that may be useful.

While considering all these various aspects, you also don’t want to spend a fortune, though you want to get the best rowing machine possible. Because there are so many indoor rowers under 2000, we’ve compiled a list of the best home rowers under $2000 to make your search easier.

We will examine each one based on our experience and rowing machine reviews from actual users to get a comprehensive idea of which one is the best rowing machine under $2000.

Best Home Rowers Under $2000 Compared

My Three Favourite Rowing Machines

My partners at BEMH have already picked the best rowers under $2000 and reviewed in detail down below. But because there are new indoor rowers that become available on a daily basis, I created the Editor’s Choice.

It’s where I regularly update to make sure you are well aware of the newest and best home and commercial quality rowing machines under $2000. For this month, I picked 3 rowers with different resistance system.

Bottom Line

Magnetic Rower Choice

NordicTrack RW900

Read Full Review

Bottom Line

NordicTrack RW900, for magnetic resistance (if you want a foldable rower with a silent ride and don’t mind the heavy subscription, it’s for you).

Water Rower Choice

WaterRower Gronk M1

Read Full Review

Bottom Line

WaterRower Gronk, for water resistance (if you want a natural sound and don’t need to store the rower after each use and also don’t mind changing water from time to time, it’s for you.

Air Rower Choice

Concept 2 Model E

Read Full Review

Bottom Line

Concept 2 Model E, for air rower (if you don’t want to deal with water changing and frequent maintenance and the extra noise, is not a problem, this one is for you.

Our Top 6 Picks Under $2000:

WaterRower Gronk M1 – Hi Rise

Listed top in our review is the WaterRower Gronk M1, one of the best water rowing machines you can find. Water rowers have the benefit of a more natural feel because they actually utilize water as a resistance method. Water also means this machine is quiet and will not be intrusive to your neighbors or family.

This one has a variable resistance level that does not require adjusting a knob, making this perfect for any skill and strength level. The WaterRower Gronk is great for commercial and home use, fitting multiple environments. It sports a handmade aluminum frame so it will last you for quite a while and can handle up to 1000 pounds.

The seat is adjustable to fit any body type. The company that produces this model is a proven manufacturer, so you know you can rely on their exercise equipment. They’ve been in the business since 1988, so they know what they’re doing when it comes to customer satisfaction and they offer a warranty that can be increased if you register.

The design is sleek and more contemporary compared to some other water resistance rowers out there, with a semi-gloss black finish. Because it’s a sleek design, you can focus more on your own movement requirements rather than trying to deal with fitting a bulkier model in your home.

It offers a no-impact aerobic exercise that’s great for people with joint issues. It’s an easy assembly and comes with an S4 monitor. The screen is fixed and a basic black and white LED, making it easy to read and use, though it lacks Bluetooth or Wifi capabilities. Because of its overall design, it’s earned the rank of the top indoor rowing machines under $2000.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• How heavy is this machine?
• Answer: 79 pounds
• What are the measurements of this machine when fully set up?
• Answer: 88 x 22 x 28.5 inches
• Can this machine be stood up to save on space?
• No, it cannot
• How much weight does this machine hold?
• Answer: Up to 1000 pounds
• What are the user height requirements for this machine?
• Answer: Those on the shorter side will be fine, but anyone over 6’9 may have a difficult time with it
• Where to find this rowing machine?
• If the limited edition WaterRower Grink M1 – High Rise is exactly what you’re looking for, you can purchase it on Amazon, GronkFitness, or Waterrower website. If you’re just looking for the basic model, you can also find on either of these websites.

Pros-

• Its sleek design fits in better with most home gyms
• There are no resistance adjustments needed
• It’s from a reputable company
• Also used as commercial rowing machines
• Is a small design, allowing you more flexibility with placement
• It’s a very quiet machine
• Sturdy aluminum frame

Cons-

• Monitor technology is outdated
• The screen is fixed and not easily removed for safekeeping
• Not having the option to adjust resistance is a turn off for some

Concept 2 Model E Indoor Rower with PM5

This machine sits higher off the floor than most other rowing machines, making it easier to get on and off for those who may have limited mobility and one of the best home rowers under 2000, though some reviews say the taller frame was an issue when lifting legs over it. It offers the same low impact and full-body workout that the WaterRower Gronk M1 – High Rise has, but this one uses air resistance.

This resistance can be adjusted to 10 different levels to meet the needs of whoever is using it. Just like the WaterRower Gronk M1 – High Rise, this one also is made to be used commercially or at home, and though it takes up more space, it can be disassembled into two parts to store away when not in use.

The Concept 2 Model E rower cites an extremely easy assembly, actually stating it only takes 10 screws to put it all together. This one comes with a Performance Monitor 5 that self-calibrates and wirelessly connects to heart rate straps and apps using Bluetooth and ANT+. The monitor arm is fixed, but the Concept rowing machine screen itself can be adjusted for the user’s comfort.

The monitor arm keeps the monitor close to the user, so there won’t be any straining to read your results. This model is a USA based company and it’s made in America. They offer a five year limited warranty on the frame and a two-year limited warranty on the monitor and moving parts.

This company made a similar model called Concept 2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine, it has the same monitor system but it is not as high off the floor. Because this one uses air resistance and not water resistance, it is louder and less pleasant sounding to use, but it’s not too loud to be problematic in a smaller home gym. This one has been among the more popular and top indoor rowing machines in Canada, UK, and, US for a while, proving that many love this machine.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• How heavy is this machine?
• Answer: 63.9 pounds
• What are the measurements of this machine when fully set up?
• Answer: 96 x 24 x 20 inches
• Can this machine be stood up to save on space?
• Answer: It doesn’t stand up, but can be separated into two parts for storage
• How much weight does this machine hold?
• Answer: Up to 500 pounds
• What are the user height requirements for this machine?
• Answer: There is no minimum limit, but Concept 2 suggests a maximum height of a 36” inseam
• Where to find this rowing machine?
• If you’d like to try the Concept 2 Model E Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5, you can get it from the manufacturer website or directly on Amazon where you also get the Amazon A-Z grantee for 30 days.

Pros-

• The seat is higher making it better for those with knee problems or limited flexibility
• Uses the Bluetooth enabled Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) Has a sturdy aluminum frame
• Can be separated into two parts for storage
• Made in AmericaEasy assembly
• The same model is used in commercial gyms
• Comes in two color option, gray or black

Cons-

• Takes up more space when putting together
• Is louder than a water resistance model
• The taller frame may be an issue for some

NordicTrack RW900 Indoor Rower

The Nordictrack RW900 isn’t water, but air-magnetic and is actually the only folding rowing machine under 2000 on this list. Not only that, but it takes the included monitor to a whole new level. Instead of it just giving you your basic workout information, it connects you to an actual trainer with Interactive Personal Training at Home through iFit.

It offers a one year membership, which would normally cost almost 400 that includes workout programs that mimic a studio and a real world setting, using Google Maps for accuracy. There are even 26 Coach Controlled resistance levels that your trainer can recommend to make it feel like you’re rowing in real water.

It’s a personalized program for you made by professionals who will keep you on track and give you the best rowing machine workout under 2000. The screen is not a small LED readout either, but a 22 inch HD touchscreen. The angle is adjustable to make sure you’re getting as much as possible from the experience.

If you have specific goals you want to meet, having a trainer is vital. While the iFit system seemed to please a lot of people, there were a lot of reviews criticizing the customer support for this company, stating that issues were not resolved or took an exceptionally long time to do so. There were also several who said the screen didn’t keep track of their progress appropriately.

Besides this, another perk of this machine was that it can be stored away when not in use like the Concept 2 rowing machine. It even has wheels for easy moving. It also features a Silent Magnetic Resistance to offer a quiet workout with an inertia enhanced flywheel for energy efficiency. Despite the improved technology, this is still a home rowing machine under 2000 so it won’t break the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• How heavy is this machine?
• Answer: 130.6 pounds
• What are the measurements of this machine when fully set up?
• Answer: 86.5 x 22 x 50.4 inches
• Can this machine be stood up to save on space?
• Answer: It can be folded to save space
• How much weight does this machine hold?
• Answer: 250 pounds
• What are the user height requirements for this machine?
• I could not find any height limitations
• Where to buy this rowing machine?
• To purchase the NordicTrack RW Rower, or to look into it more, go here to Amazon or NordicTrack website where they provide more images and videos of this fold-up rowing machine.

Pros-

• The iFit Interactive Personal Trainer
• Can be folded up to store away
• Had large 22-inch screen
• Google Map and studio inspired workouts
• Coach Controlled resistance

Cons-

• 250-pound weight limit
• Poor customer service response
• May have issues tracking user workout
• The screen does not have an input option for things like YouTubsWater

Rower Club Rowing Machine in Ash Wood

Yes, this is the second WaterRower on this list proving that the manufacturer is capable of making the best rowing machine under $2000. As mentioned before, the company has been around for a while and makes excellent rowing machines. This one has a classic look with an ash wood frame to absorb sound and vibration, and as a water rowing machine, many like the sound.

This frame is handcrafted, made from solid ash wood and has been stained with a beautiful rose and black stain and finished with Danish oil to give it a classy appearance. Ashwood is a hardwood with proven strength and stability and a greater ability to absorb sound vibrations than other varieties.

WaterRower Club rower uses wood from replenishable forests to make less environmental impact in this model. It features the same enclosed water flywheel as the WaterRower Gronk M1 – Hi-Rise to give you a quieter water rowing machine workout with a natural, real rowing feel.

Also, if you really want to add to the unique look of the machine, WaterRower has products to color the water in the clear tank that you can order. This one can be stored in an upright position to save space when not in use.

This one, like the others on this list, is made to be usable in more commercial settings as well as in a home gym. Like the WaterRower Gronk M1 – Hi Rise, this one can support up to 1000 pounds and offers a water level based resistance, and the same S4 monitor with simple digital display for your progress information. Overall, Club rower is a good option and definitely one of the best indoor rowers in the UK, CA, and, US.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• How heavy is this machine?
• Answer: 117 pounds
• What are the measurements of this machine when fully set up?
• Answer: 84 x 21 x 22 inches
• Can this machine be stood up to save on space?
• Answer: Yes, this machine is designed to be stood up for space-saving
• How much weight does this machine hold?
• Answer: Up to 1000 pounds
• What are the user height requirements for this machine?
• Answer: There are no minimum requirements, but this machine can fit someone with a 37” inseam, and Water Rower offers a longer rail for those who are taller.
• Where to purchase this rowing machine?
• If you want to add this classic looking rowing machine to your home gym, you can find it on waterpower or Amazon website where you can hundreds or real consumer reviews for this waterpower Club rowing machine.

Pros-

• Able to stand up for storage
• Beautiful ash wood frame
• It’s from a reputable company
• It’s a quiet machine
• Made for commercial and home gyms
• There are no resistance adjustments needed

Cons-

• Not suggested for putting directly on hardwood flooring
• Technology is outdated
• Some reviews claim the foot pedals are too close together
• Likewise, some say the plastic of the foot pedals are slippery
• It doesn’t allow users to adjust the resistance

Life Fitness Row HX Trainer Water Rower

This one is a wood frame model as well, though it incorporates tempered steel to give the strength and durability needed for an exercise rowing machine. The Life Fitness Row HX Trainer is yet another water rowing machine under $2000, offering that natural feeling and it stands up to take up less space when not being used, similar to the WaterRower Club Rowing Machine in Ash Wood, but this one has an adjustable resistance.

An easy to use dial lets you select one of four levels instead of relying on water levels or the user adjusting their workout. Some reviews indicated that it wasn’t a very noticeable difference in resistance, but the reviewers were not unsatisfied.

This one is not easily installed by yourself, and it seems most get the professionals to do it, though that’s not free. The weight limit should adequately support most at a limit of 330 pounds.

Unlike the others mentioned so far on this list, this one is made for home gyms only, so it may not offer the same prolonged use as the others.

There are limited warranties on the different parts, such as a five year limited warranty for the frame and a limited mechanical warranty of two years. It has a simple digital monitor like the WaterRower models to give you a readout of your workout progress. This company made a similar model called the Life Fitness Row GX Trainer for commercial use that offers a 16 level resistance.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• How heavy is this machine?
• Answer: 87 pounds
• What are the measurements of this machine when fully set up?
• Answer: 84 x 20.5 x 22 inches
• Can this machine be stood up to save on space?
• Answer: It can be stood up and is only 7” tall
• How much weight does this machine hold?
• Answer: 330 pounds
• What are the user height requirements for this machine?
• Answer: The maximum height is 6’5
• Where to buy this indoor rower?
• To reach out to the professionals and have this installed in your home, you can go to the life fitness or Amazon where you will get an added guarantee from the platform.

Pros-

• Stands up to save space when not in use
• Has a wood frame for a classic look
• Has a dial for resistance shifts
• Will have that water rowing machine sound

Cons-

• The weight limit is less than other machines
• Should have professionals install
• Built for home gym only
• Outdated technology

Hydrow Live Outdoor Reality At Home Rower

One of the best magnetic rowing machines and a bit similar to the NordicTrack RW Rower, the Hydrow Rower has a more advanced 22 inch HD touchscreen to give the user a more in-depth experience. It uses an electromagnetic drag as resistance, all computer-controlled. You can have access to pre-recorded real rowing and studio rowing classes, or join in on them live.

You can have the benefits of a trainer in your home and have the display show you a real river with nature sounds for a more immersive experience. However, this requires a paid membership. While you don’t these virtual perks for free, you pay based on your household and can have multiple profiles, so if you share a home with others who like to exercise it may be worth it.

One problematic issue for some is that this machine seems to require an internet connection to work at all. There is no unplugged ability, even in the free option for just rowing. As one reviewer points out, that can be a big concern for a number of reasons. This one also requires the purchase of the Hydrow Upright Storage Kit in order to stand it up to save space.

The manufacturer says it should definitely not be stored upright without it. This machine is smooth and quiet, using an industrial webbed strap to keep the strokes frictionless. It’s made with commercial grade aluminum for a solid machine and definitely has a sleek appearance, making it nice to look at, which is a good thing if you don’t want to purchase the Hydrow Upright Storage Kit.

This machine does have a perk that is unlike any of the other machines on this list. The company gives to Water.org, a charity group that provides clean water to people in developing areas. Every 60 days of rowing exercise prompts them to donate.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• How heavy is this machine?
• Answer: 145 pounds
• What are the measurements of this machine when fully set up?
• Answer: 86″L x 25″W x 47″H
• Can this machine be stood up to save on space?
• Answer: It can be stood up, but only with the Hydrow Upright Storage Kit
• How much weight does this machine hold?
• Answer: Up to 375 pounds
• What are the user height requirements for this machine?
• Answer: Fits up to a 36” inseam
• Where to find this magnetic rowing machine?
• You can buy this rower on Amazon but to start your membership and utilize all the great options with this machine, you would need to go to the Hydrow website.

Pros-

• Sleek design to look good and feel good
• Frame is aluminum Has an HD 22-inch display
• Has optional access to paid training membership
• There are donations to Water.org for machine useIt’s a quiet machine

Cons-

• Requires internet access to use
• Does not stand up or disassemble for storing away without the purchase of a kit
• Installing is a two-man job
• No free trial for training membership

Indoor Rowing FAQ

What are the best air rowing machines?

Based on tens of facts and features, Concept 2 Model D which is also one of the best home rowers under $1000 and Model E are the best air resistance rowing machines on the market. They are used by the world’s most elite rowing teams.

Does rowing also help built upper body muscles?

Yes, rowing uses 85% of muscles and helps burn more calories than most other types of home gym equipment on the market including top spin bikes under $2000.

What is the best budget rower?

To answer this question more accurately, we reviewed the best magnetic rowers under $500, water rowers under $500, and air rowers under $500. In each category including rowers under $200, there is one indoor rower that has the most durable frame and superior features.

Which is the lowest maintenance home rowers?

Air rowers tend to require less maintenance than water and magnetic rowers. They don’t need frequent water change and there is no tank washer damage or water leaking involved.

Do I need especial clothing for rowing?

Not necessarily, but you would have a more comfortable rowing experience with proper indoor rowing clothing and accessories. We have reviewed the best rowing shoes, rowing gloves, and floor mat to make your indoor rowing exercise smoother.

My Final Verdict!

Hopefully, this list has helped you find the best rowing exercise machine under $2000 for you. Indoor rowing has been proven to offer a great workout for a wide variety of people, helping people prepare for competitions, reach a target weight, or just help ease some joint pain.

It’s always a challenge when you don’t know where to look for the answers you need, so do your research and find what the best rowing machine is for you, whether it’s a magnetic rowing machine, air rowing machine, or water indoor rowing machine under 2000, you will be able to get your row exercise less than $2000 and make the best economic and fitness decision for the best home rowing machine for you.

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Sayed Hamed Hosseiny

Hi, my name is Sayed Hamed Hosseiny. I am a professional health and fitness trainer with nearly 20 years of experience using ellipticals, rowing machines, and spin bikes. I also have my own EU-based Rock Fitness Pro fitness brand where I design, import and sell exercise equipment such as rowing machines and spin bikes. I and writers on my team also often receive fitness equipment to review and evaluate their functionalities and performance from tens of different exercise machines manufacturers. Fitness equipment tips, guides, reviews, and comparisons on this website are my opinion (and opinions of my fitness expert colleagues) based on tens of criteria. I never accept payment to write reviews of products or say positive things about fitness equipment products. If brands are interested to have me review their rowers, ellipticals, or spin bikes, they can get in touch with me via email provided on the contact page and send a sample of their product.

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