Rowing Machines – Best in Test 2026! – Top 10 Rowing Machines | Hardworkout Magazine
Key takeaways
- The rowing machines in this overview have not been physically tested; they are assessed on specifications, manufacturer data, features, price and available user experiences.
- Every rowing machine is scored across five weighted categories: resistance (30), construction and capacity (25), computer and features (20), user-friendliness and storage (15) and price (10).
- Air-resistance machines are noisy because of the fan and suit a dedicated training room better than a living room.
- Magnetic rowing machines are quiet, let you set resistance directly from the computer and are often among the cheaper options for home use.
A rowing machine provides effective training for large parts of the body and combines strength and cardio in the same workout. We give you an overview of some of the best rowing machines on the market in 2026.
Why are the rowing machines split into three separate lists?
To make the overview easier to navigate, we have divided the rowing machines into three separate top lists based on the type of resistance they use:
- [Best rowing machines with air resistance](romaskiner-luftmotstand)
- [Best rowing machines with water resistance](romaskiner-vannmotstand)
- [Best rowing machines with magnetic resistance](romaskiner-magnetisk-motstand)
How did we evaluate the rowing machines?
The products have not been physically tested by us and are evaluated based on specifications, manufacturer data, features, price, and available user experiences. Each of the three top lists has its own evaluation criteria tailored to the specific type of rowing machine.
At the bottom of the article, you can read more about the differences between air, water, and magnetic resistance, and what you should look for when choosing a rowing machine.
PS: Prices are recommended and may change. If you click on the purchase link, you will get the updated price from the online store.
How do we earn money on this test?
By shopping through the links in the test, we receive a small commission from the stores. This helps us continue to publish tests and articles without costing you anything extra.
Rowing machines with air resistance – Best in test 2026!
This top list includes rowing machines with air resistance and rowing machines that combine air and magnetic resistance.
Air resistance increases the harder and faster you row, while magnetic resistance offers more options to adjust how heavy you want to row.
Best in test: [Master Fitness Master R6040](https://hardworkout.no/Master-Fitness-Master-R6040)
Best budget model: [Titan Life Rower R65](https://hardworkout.no/Titan-Life-Rower-R65)
Rowing Machines with Water Resistance – Best in Test 2026!
This top list includes rowing machines with water resistance and rowing machines that combine water and magnetic resistance.
Water resistance provides a smooth and natural rowing feel, where the resistance increases the harder you row.
Best in test: [Infico RowingPad Hybrid](https://hardworkout.no/Infico-RowingPad-Hybrid-toppliste)
Best premium model: [Tunturi Signature R90W ](https://hardworkout.no/Tunturi-Signature-R90W)
Best budget model: [Top Sport WP2000](https://hardworkout.no/Top-Sport-WP2000)
Rowing Machines with Magnetic Resistance – Best in Test 2026!
Rowing machines with magnetic resistance are quiet and allow you to choose the resistance level directly from the computer. They are often among the more affordable options and are well-suited for home use.
Best in test: [Top Sport Vico Ergometer Rowing Machine](https://hardworkout.no/TopSport-Vico-Ergometer-romaskin)
Best premium model: [Reebok Rower ZJET](https://hardworkout.no/Reebok-Rower-Zjet)
Best budget model: [Infico RowingPad Tech-Dynamic](https://hardworkout.no/Infico-RowingPad-Tech-Dynamic-toppliste)
Criteria for Testing Rowing Machines with Air Resistance
The products have not been physically tested by us and are evaluated based on specifications, manufacturer data, features, price, and available user experiences.
Resistance (30)
The options for adjusting resistance, the number of settings, and how much resistance the rowing machine can provide.
Construction and Capacity (25)
Materials and construction, own weight, maximum user weight, size, and length of the rail.
Computer and Features (20)
Training data, training programs, heart rate measurement, Bluetooth, support for training apps, and other connectivity options.
User-Friendliness and Storage (15)
Adjustment options for footplates and screen, transport wheels, size, and the ability to fold, collapse, or store the rowing machine vertically when not in use.
Price (10)
Price compared to specifications, construction, capacity, and features.
Criteria for Testing Water Resistance Rowing Machines
The products have not been physically tested by us and are evaluated based on specifications, manufacturer data, features, price, and available user experiences.
Resistance (30)
How the resistance is regulated, the options for adjusting the resistance, and how many resistance levels the rowing machine has.
Construction and Capacity (25)
Materials and construction, quality and size of the water tank, weight, maximum user weight, size and length of the rail.
Computer and Features (20)
Training data, training programs, heart rate measurement, Bluetooth, support for training apps, and other connectivity options.
User-Friendliness and Storage (15)
Adjustment options for footplates and screen, transport wheels, size, and the possibility of storing the rowing machine upright or in other ways to reduce space requirements when not in use.
Maintenance of the water and how easy it is to fill and empty the tank is also included in the evaluation.
Price (10)
Price compared to specifications, construction, capacity, and features.
Criteria for Testing Rowing Machines with Magnetic Resistance
The products have not been physically tested by us and are evaluated based on specifications, manufacturer data, features, price, and available user experiences.