Best Rowing Machines Under $500 [ Unbiased Reviews 2022]

Sunny Water Rowing Machine

You want a robust design and strongly manufactured rowing machine for a full-time workout. Then this amazingly built model is right on point for you.No doubt, the engineers used a strong material to manufacture it. Having the capacity to row a 300lb man is proof that it will long last under normal circumstances.

With its powerful build, it is also very easy and clear to assemble. You get screws with numbers labeled upon, that assist you through the whole process. If you have very basic mechanical knowledge you can still assemble it without any assistance.

When it comes to its performance the sunny water resistance machine outclasses every other machine in this price range. You get a comfortable seat and a smooth noise-less rowing slide. The only noise you get will be satisfying that comes from the water-resistant tank. With the water resistance tank, you can set your resistance level by adding more or less water.

Not only, the Sunny Rowing Machine is good in performance but it is also great with the features it offers. You get a display monitor that tracks your time, strokes, strokes per minute, calories burnt, and distance. A mobile holder is also provided to enjoy your favorite shoes while rowing.

The issues faced by users are personal in nature. while the drawbacks we noticed are not of severe cases. For example, the slide doesn’t work for a person who is over 6’.The footstep might create a problem and some users find it slippery.

In my opinion, if you want to make the most out of a 500$ rowing machine it is the perfect sample. I mean, You get all the advanced level features in just $500.The user who gave it a try after using 1000$ concept 2 rowers is giving 5/5 for this machine. There are some issues but that could be agreed upon.

Circuit Fitness AMZ-986RW

Forget closed gyms and membership fees, invest in this quality machine, and build your own gym, which will be open 24/7. Because Circuit Fitness Rowing Machine is a good substitute with a similar feel, this rowing machine is a piece of top-shelf equipment. With its robust engineering and amazingly attractive design, I can tell it will last a long time.

This machine is quiet and smooth. So, it’s the right choice if you want to workout while the baby is sleeping or watching Tv. Using this machine is quite fun because it can make you feel very relaxed and at the same time you can feel the muscles burn almost immediately. Not only that it has a shallow impact, So you will never have back or joint pains after using it.

Different levels of resistance are way better than others in the store. Because the tension changing mechanism of the Circuit Fitness Rowing Machine works very well, you can change the tension level according to your preference. If you put the resistance level at 8, then 15 minutes is enough to get your heartbeat up.

If anything is going to break down on a rower, it’s the pull rope. This is not a concern on this machine because Circuit Fitness Rowing Machine has a thick strap that appears to be something that is going to last a long time.

The only problem that this amazingly fun piece of equipment has, the LCD has no on/off button. It’s battery-operated, and you have to let the screen on. Other than that this machine has all the bells and whistles that one might want in a home rower. So, do yourself a favor and buy it.

This machine is excellent for someone who likes to keep his/her body in shape or wants to lose some weight. This machine is not going to work for someone trying to gain bulky muscles, but it does have enough strength to offer you a useful exercise. I would recommend this product to older folks trying to get in shape or lose a few pounds.

Serene Life Smart Rowing Machine

If you want to get fit, but don’t want to join a fitness center because it’s too expensive or maybe you’re just the independent type. Or perhaps you’re already a gym member, but your work schedule does not allow you to go to the gym. Then this fantastic Serene Life Smart Rowing Machine is perfect for you. Because it’s not very expensive and really can help you to maintain your fitness level.

A fantastic fitness monitoring PMS system increases the value of this beauty. Because it shows you immediate results in a fun way. The screen is a nice touch and has a ton of options. It can capture calories burned, distance, average strokes per minute, etc. so it has a perfect digital display for viewing your stats as you row.

The resistance is also very good ranging from 1 to 16 levels. You can set the level manually on the screen or use a pre-programmed program that adjusts resistance levels as you row through the program. The different modes vary in intensity, length, and complexity.

Another unique option that this machine offers is FIT SHOW app. With the help of this app, you can actually connect the workout rowing machine with resistance to your iPhone or Android devices via Bluetooth so you can record and review exercise data through your smartphone.

The Serene Life Rowing Machine is perfect for someone who wants to grow with ease and get some good, fast cardio. Do not consider this if you need anything more than an average resistance. But if you want to keep your body in shape from home then do yourself a favor and buy it.

Maxkare water rowing machine

One of the main reasons for making the Maxkare water rowing machine one of our top picks is a decent style and comfortable user experience. Maxkare water rowing machine comes with plenty of extra features that other budget rowing machines don’t offer. One of them is undoubtedly water-resistance technology. It gives you a real-time water rowing experience as you row on the machine. As you row, the water resistance produces a healthy noise that satisfies our minds adding mediation.

The Maxkare water rowing machine is solidly manufactured for long-lasting purposes, and it comes with secure packaging to prevent it from transportation damages. In the worst-case scenario, if your package somehow got defective, you can also replace it. Further, you can quickly assemble it following a few steps. It only requires 6 steps and 40 minutes to set-up the whole machine. Not only that, but the Maxkare water rowing machine could also quickly be moved. And it takes less area to function.

To track your fitness  Maxkare provides you with a simple Lcd Monitor. LCD track your strokes, strokes per meter, time distance, and calories burnt. Some users complain that the tracker doesn’t consider the water-resistance while calculating the calories consumed.

In an ideal world, everything you buy will be perfect from all angles; unfortunately, we don’t live in an ideal world. The one issue that users frequently reported is its low quality of LCD monitor. It does not have an LED light in it; some said that it doesn’t calculate accurately, and even some got damaged, LCD monitors.

Another area where the Maxkare water rowing machine needs improvement is its seat. It is unjustified to say that seat deficient and not worthy at all but should be made for better user comfort.

In our opinion and honest review Maxkare, the water rowing machine is worth buying at this budget price. It got all the essential functions and relaxing features to comfort users. It is an advanced water resistance technology that makes rowing fun. With its secure building, you can install it within minutes, and without extra manpower.

Further, It got a robust manufacturing quality for a long-lasting purpose. There are certainly compromising facts that the seat is not comfy. Users find LCD monitors a low-quality monitor that incorrectly calculates. But if you want to make a budget, you have to compromise on these little issues.

JOROTO magnetic rower

As the name suggests, JOROTO magnetic rower has magnetic-based resistance. Magnetic resistance rowing machines are preferred for two reasons; first, they produce less noise, and secondly, you can adjust the level of resistance according to your choice.JOROTO magnetic rower is strongly built with top quality aluminum that makes it go for a more extended time. Its aluminum quality provides less noise while rowing and gives a comfortable, smooth experience.

Moreover, the JOROTO magnetic rower is easy to assemble, but keep in mind the heavy-weight that makes it difficult to move. You can easily make it function in less than 30 minutes. Due to the sleek design, the machine could be kept in less space. Moreover, you can keep it in a vertical position to save more space for your home.

To keep an eye on your work-out tasks JOROTO magnetic rower comes with a sophisticated digital monitor. Digital monitors allow you to check your calorie times and strokes. The digital monitor motivates you by comparing your performance and pushes you to do more. Not only that, but the JOROTO magnetic rower also has a mobile holder. It allows you to enjoy yourself with your favorite media and make rowing fun. The mobile holder can be adjusted with your rowing rhythm. Not only is the holder adjustable, but you can customize the foot pedals also. The machine is equally good from newbie to experts.

One of the main issues that buyers have repeatedly reported is the quality of digital monitors. The monitor is not the top-notch of the class; it’s just so so. For this price, I think it’s okay to compromise on this type of issue.

Another issue that users confront during the rowing is the seat comfortability. The Seat doesn’t appear to be relaxing, within 15 to 20 minutes of work-out you feel bothersome. It doesn’t rail properly and produces some unhealthy noise sometimes. Also, The foot straps don’t hold your feet properly. You take a noticeable discomfort while rowing.

If you wish to buy a magnetic rowing machine, you should have more than 1000$ in your pocket to get one, so in that capacity, JOROTO magnetic rower is the best budget machine. It gives you adjustable magnetic resistance that could be used from beginners to pro levels. It also got a tracking device with sturdy pedals that are manufactured with high-quality aluminum. No doubt, there are some issues there, like you have to compromise on the monitor quality and the pedals are not of top-notch stuff. So overall it’s a best-buy for home.

Stamina 1215 Orbital Rowing Machine

This product is exactly as represented. It’s effortless to assemble. With its easy to install components, you only need 15 minutes to make this product working. It is easy to use and is fairly comfortable. It doesn’t matter if you are a newbie, you can still use it and make the most out of it. Not only that, but it is also relatively compact and very flexible. So you can move your arms at different angles while rowing. With the help of amazing orbital rowing arms, You can get a full rotation in any direction.

There are five different settings on this machine that you can customize according to your weight and height. It doesn’t matter if you’re a 6’0 weighing 200 lbs or 5’0 weighing 100 lbs. Moreover, The orbital rowing machine is helpful for males and females of all ages and levels.

Apart from that, it’s the perfect alternative to running because you get a cardio workout, strength building, and ideal body toning along with the butt, back, shoulders, waistline, and even abs, if you row correctly. It’s like an all in one package which can help your whole body. Besides this, you can watch your favorite TV shows while working out because it’s hushed. The tough decision is what tv show you are going to watch while working out.

Using this machine is a relaxing experience that makes the rowing kind of fun. You don’t need to wear any gloves because the foam on the handles is nice and thick. The seat is well made and comfortable. Even after a good workout, it still keeps its shape. On top of that, it also has an electronic (battery charged) counter that keeps track of your time, distance, speed, row count, calories burned, etc..

This machine is excellent, but there are some issues. It’s too large and does not stand properly. Some people will store this machine flat, and others will stand it up. Since the frame is oval-shaped and not square, the rubber feet on the front end do not make good contact with the ground when you try to stand it up. It has no locking mechanism for the seat, making it quite impossible to use this machine for other exercises besides rowing.

Marcy Foldable Rowing Machine

So far, so good, these are the words you are going to listen to from the users of this amazingly fun piece of equipment. Because in quality and price, the Marcy Foldable Rowing machine is unbeatable. Even though it does not look as lovely as Marcy’s standing bike, it does the job.

You got to impress with the simplicity as well as the sturdiness of this equipment. Because it may not be so elegant in looks, but in durability, Marcy Foldable Rowing Machine is unmatchable at this price. Apart from its smooth operations, Marcy Foldable Rowing Machine is surprisingly comfortable. As a result, individuals of every age group and levels can find this machine useful.

It folds quite nicely and minimizes the space. Additionally, it becomes effortless for you to move the machine from one room to another because it comes up with two built-in transport wheels that enable easy moving and storage when you’re not using it.

The resistance of the Marcy Foldable Rowing Machine is magnetic; thus, it is limited in its actual ability to resist. But that also means that it will never really lose its resistance. Besides, The Marcy Foldable Rowing Machine offers eight preset magnetic levels that can be customized to match your target workout zone.

A big bright display monitor increases the attractiveness of the Marcy Foldable Rowing Machine. Furthermore, you can fold this multi-angle monitor both backward as well as forward. This easy to use LCD panel provides information regarding workout.

Apart from the good stuff, this machine also has some issues. It does not offer a whole lot of resistance. So, if you want real strength or want to put on massive muscles, this is not the machine for you. Also, the assembly instructions are pathetic. Guidelines are more like a puzzle; you have to go to YouTube for help.

This machine is perfect for someone who is starting or maintaining a fitness routine. There is not much resistance, so this machine will not work for someone trying to gain muscle mass, but it does have enough strength to offer effective exercise. Besides, Marcy Foldable Rowing Machine is perfect in a city apartment. Because of its unique foldable feature. In conclusion, at this price, this machine is way ahead of its competitors. You should give it a try, and you’ll never be disappointed.

Sunny Magnetic Rowing Machine (SF-RW5515)

The best in-home fitness machine for you. Sunny magnetic rowing machine does require a lot of space. With its well-calculated design, it is perfect for home-usage. You can set-up this in your room or lounge. Its transportation wheels help you to move it without extra manpower. Just tilt and carry-away.

Magnetic resistance makes its rowing smooth and fun. Having 8 levels of resistance allows you to set-up according to your preference. Moreover, Sunny magnetic rowing machine is a low impact work-out machine leaving less stress on your joints and other body parts.

Sunny magnetic rowing machine comes with a digital monitor to track down your calories burnt, time, and strokers. Not only that, With its anti-slip grip handle and pedals you get more secure rowing. This model of Suny rowing machine has an extra length of 48 inches on its slide that can serve rowing to almost all the heights.

Its monitor calculates only strokes, time, and calories and excludes the distance you rowed. On the other hand, the other machines available at this price facilitates you with extra features. Also, The console of the machine is a basic one. It doesn’t provide the basic smooth and relaxing functions as others do.

In our opinion, we are sure that it’s the best budget fitness machine for your home. Due to its easy portability, you can effortlessly move it. It’s easy to assemble and comparatively quiet. It got all the basic functions from a relaxing seat to a monitoring LED. If You want to have all the basic fun of rowing at your home, you surely need to check it out.

Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1060

If you want to add a rowing machine into your home gym setup but don’t want to spend massive money. Then, this is precisely what you wanted as your first rowing machine for home.

Stamina Body Trac Glider is cardiovascular, which means you are going to get your heart rate up or respiration, you’re going to lose weight. Above all, the seat is comfortable enough and rolls smoothly. Due to its molded build, it has a little cushion Which makes this machine way more comfortable.

This rowing machine is low impact. That’s why it’s easy on your joints, so if you have any joint issues you can use this machine—a fantastic machine for all body workouts with excellent quality and design. You got to love this machine because it can make your back, shoulders, and neck feel like someone is massaging the muscles.

The tablet holder is really convenient, so you can put your tablet there and watch your shows, you could talk to somebody on facetime if you wanted to. You could also download the rowing workout section and workout with somebody to keep your motivation up and really get full benefits from being on the rowing machine. Not only that it also comes with a one-button fitness monitor that shows how long you have been on the rowing machine, your calorie count, your strokes as well as your total count. So, you can really pay attention to your progress, record it, and improve it.

Stamina Body Trac Glider is the sort of machine that saves you money because you’re not going to be buying a gym membership. You don’t have to go and have everybody watching you exercise because you can do this in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Even if your home is small and you have limited space. Because it’s foldable arms for compact storage helps you exercise even in a confined space.

Despite some fantastic features, Stamina Body Trac Glider has some pitfalls. The replacement cost is not very reasonable, because it’s going to cost you around 30 bucks if the piston broke. Stamina Body Trac Glider requires the user to oiled it consistently otherwise after about 5000 strokes the air cylinder will start to make an irritating squealing noise.

For someone who is not a rowing or fitness buff, this is an excellent machine. Using a stamina Body Trac Glider is a relaxing experience because it can make your body feel like someone is massaging. Overall if you need a cost-conscience machine to get you heart-rate up, this rower should do the trick for you.

Sunny Rowing Machine SF-RW1205

Don’t judge a book by its cover and Sunny rowing machine by its price. The rowing machine is designed with excellent built quality to serve low-budget gym freaks. Sunny health and fitness companies have produced remarkable rowing machines that address all the customer needs And keep in mind the low-budget freaks they manufactured this rowing machine. During its build, the quality was not compromised but the extra features have been cut-off to reduce the price.

It has 12 levels of resistance so you can choose according to your body type. And the machine rows are quite silent and smooth even at the last level. Keeping in mind the need for a budget gym freaks the machine is designed to facilitate even a heavy body of 300lb.

With this price can you expect a digital monitor? I don’t think so. But Sunny health and fitness added a digital monitor to calculate time, calories, and total counts. Moreover, you can also tailor your work-out by adjusting pedals and levels according to your space.

The lightweight feature added more value to the customers, you can easily set it up, there is no difficulty carrying it, and takes a very minimal space. A single man can carry it without extra manpower.

No doubt there are some drawbacks to this rower. Firstly some customers don’t appreciate the counter. They found it a very basic one that can not calculate the distance you row and there is no reset button.Sadly.And there is a heat issue with its hydraulic resistance pump. You can not row it for long long time.

If you are looking for a high-end powerful rowing machine for your gym, go for our top pick Sunny Water Rowing Machine. This sunny rower model is basically designed for a shorter time period and house use only. You can give it a go if you want it for home, I mean it got all the essential rowing machine functions. But for the gym and high-end usage, don’t get it.