5 Connected Rowing Machines Compared

Why you should trust this guide

I have spent years researching and analyzing the connected fitness market, focusing specifically on rowing machines because they offer a full-body workout that is both low-impact and highly effective. My approach is to evaluate each machine based on its stated features, the quality of its resistance system, the depth of its content library, and the overall value it provides to different types of users. I do not rely on a single test or personal ownership; instead, I synthesize information from manufacturer specifications, owner communities, and professional reviews to build a comprehensive picture of what each product delivers.

This guide is built on the principle that the best rowing machine for you depends on your priorities. Some people want the most authentic rowing feel, others want the best data for training, and many want a seamless experience with an existing fitness ecosystem. I have compared these five products head-to-head across these dimensions, and I have made sure to highlight both the strengths and the honest limitations of each. My goal is to give you the information you need to make a confident buying decision without hype or exaggeration.

How we researched

To evaluate these connected rowing machines, I established a set of criteria that matter most to buyers in this category. The primary factors were resistance system quality, content library depth and engagement, screen size and interactivity, build quality and footprint, and the overall value of the subscription or included features. I considered how each machine’s resistance type (air, water, electromagnetic, or hybrid) affects the stroke feel and workout intensity. I also weighed the importance of live and on-demand class variety, instructor quality, and whether the content is exclusive to the machine or shared across a platform.

I compared the stated specifications of each machine against the others, focusing on the touchscreen size, the resolution of video content, and the ease of navigating the software interface. I looked at the subscription costs and what they include, such as family memberships or access to other workout types. I also considered the long-term durability of each machine based on the materials used and the reputation of the manufacturer. Finally, I identified one honest limitation for each product, based on common feedback from owners and industry analysis, to ensure this guide provides a balanced perspective.

Hydrow Original — Best Full Immersive Experience

The Hydrow Original is built around one concept: making indoor rowing feel as close to on-water rowing as possible. Its electromagnetic resistance system replicates the drag curve of actual water, which means the resistance builds smoothly and progressively as you drive through each stroke. This is not a sudden, jerky pull; it is a fluid, natural sensation that rewards proper technique. The 22-inch portrait touchscreen is one of the sharpest in the category, and the Hydrow app includes thousands of classes filmed on real rivers and lakes around the world. The video quality is exceptional, with professional athletes rowing alongside you, which creates a sense of presence that is hard to match.

The content library is curated for rowing specifically, with classes ranging from beginner technique drills to high-intensity interval workouts and endurance rows. The instructors are knowledgeable and motivating, and they often provide real-time coaching on form and breathing. The machine itself is solid and quiet, with a compact footprint that fits well in most home gyms. The electromagnetic resistance requires no calibration and is consistent across every workout, which is a major advantage over air or water systems that can vary with temperature or humidity.

One honest limitation of the Hydrow Original is the subscription cost. The Hydrow membership is required to access the full library of classes, and it is priced at a premium compared to some competitors. If you choose not to subscribe, the machine still functions as a manual rower, but you lose the connected features that make it special. Additionally, the screen does not rotate for off-rower workouts, which limits its versatility if you want to use it for floor exercises or stretching.

Concept2 RowErg — Best Pure Performance Machine

The Concept2 RowErg has been the gold standard for competitive rowing training for decades, and the 2026 version maintains that reputation. Air resistance scales automatically with stroke power, so there is no ceiling on intensity. The harder you pull, the more resistance you feel, which makes it ideal for athletes who want to push their limits. The PM5 monitor tracks every metric that matters: split time per 500m, stroke rate, power in watts, and calorie burn. It is the most accurate and reliable performance monitor in the industry, and it works without any subscription or internet connection. This is a machine built for serious training, not for entertainment.

The RowErg is also incredibly durable and easy to maintain. The frame is steel and aluminum, and the air flywheel is simple to clean and repair. It folds for storage, which is a practical feature for home users with limited space. The ergonomics are excellent, with a comfortable seat, adjustable footrests, and a handle that is easy to grip. The PM5 monitor also supports wireless heart rate monitors and can connect to third-party apps like ErgData and Strava, giving you full control over your data.

One honest limitation of the Concept2 RowErg is the lack of a connected screen and immersive content. The PM5 is a data display, not a video screen. There are no classes, no instructors, and no scenic videos. If you want a guided workout experience, you will need to bring your own tablet or phone and use a third-party app. The air resistance is also louder than water or electromagnetic systems, which may be a concern if you live in an apartment or share a wall with a bedroom. The noise is a constant whoosh that some users find distracting during quiet hours.

Peloton Row — Best for Peloton Households

If you already own a Peloton Bike or Tread and subscribe to the Peloton All-Access membership, the Peloton Row adds rowing classes to your existing subscription at no extra cost. This is a significant value proposition, as you get access to Peloton’s entire library of rowing workouts without paying an additional monthly fee. The 24-inch touchscreen is the largest on any rower, and Peloton’s instructor roster brings the same energy and production quality that made the bike popular. The classes are well structured, with warm-ups, drills, and cool-downs, and the instructors provide clear cues for form and pacing.

The machine itself is sleek and modern, with a clean design that fits the Peloton aesthetic. The resistance is electromagnetic, which provides a smooth and quiet stroke. The screen rotates, so you can use it for off-rower classes like strength training or yoga, which adds versatility. The Peloton ecosystem is one of the most polished in the industry, with leaderboards, high-fives, and social features that keep you motivated. The build quality is premium, with a sturdy frame and a comfortable seat.

One honest limitation of the Peloton Row is that it is only a good value if you are already in the Peloton ecosystem. If you do not have an All-Access membership, the cost of the machine plus the subscription is high compared to other options. The rowing library is also smaller than Hydrow’s, as Peloton is newer to the category. The machine is also heavy and difficult to move, and it does not fold for storage, so you need dedicated floor space. The lack of a water or air resistance system means the stroke feel is less natural than the Hydrow or WaterRower.

WaterRower Connected — Best for Quiet Natural Feel

The WaterRower’s water resistance tank produces a stroke feel that is closer to on-water rowing than any electromagnetic or air-resistance system. The resistance increases naturally as you pull harder, and the water sound is genuinely calming, a sharp contrast to the whir of an air rower. The ash wood frame is also the most visually refined in the category; it looks like furniture rather than gym equipment. The Connected version adds a Bluetooth module and a tablet holder, allowing you to stream classes from the WaterRower app or third-party apps like Kinomap and Apple Fitness+.

The rowing motion on the WaterRower is incredibly smooth and fluid. The water tank uses a paddle and impeller system that creates a realistic drag curve, and the sound of rushing water is meditative. The machine is also very quiet, making it ideal for use in shared living spaces or early morning workouts. The wood frame is available in several finishes, including ash, cherry, and walnut, so you can choose one that matches your decor. The build quality is excellent, with a lifetime warranty on the frame and a five-year warranty on the tank.

One honest limitation of the WaterRower Connected is that the included tablet holder and Bluetooth module are basic compared to the integrated screens on the Hydrow or Peloton Row. You need to supply your own tablet, and the WaterRower app is not as polished or content-rich as the competitors. The water resistance also requires periodic maintenance, as you need to add a purification tablet every few months to prevent algae growth. The machine is also long and does not fold, so it requires significant floor space. The lack of a built-in screen means the experience is less immersive out of the box.

NordicTrack RW900 — Best Screen-to-Price Ratio

The NordicTrack RW900 includes a 22-inch rotating touchscreen at a price lower than the Hydrow Original. The iFIT platform covers rowing, cycling, running, and strength classes in one subscription, making it a versatile content library if you also own other iFIT-compatible equipment. The air-plus-magnetic hybrid resistance is smooth and quiet, and the machine includes a one-year iFIT family subscription. The screen rotates, so you can use it for off-rower workouts, which adds significant value. The classes are led by professional trainers who can adjust your resistance automatically during the workout, which is a unique feature.

The RW900 is built with a sturdy steel frame and a comfortable seat. The pedals are adjustable and have straps to keep your feet secure. The resistance system combines air resistance with a magnetic brake, which provides a smooth and consistent feel across the entire stroke. The iFIT library is enormous, with thousands of classes filmed in locations around the world. The auto-adjust resistance feature is particularly useful, as it allows the trainer to control the intensity so you can focus on your form. The machine also folds for storage, which is a practical feature for home use.

One honest limitation of the NordicTrack RW900 is that the iFIT subscription is required to access the full range of features, and the free content is very limited. After the one-year trial ends, you will need to pay for the subscription to continue using the connected features. The screen resolution is lower than the Hydrow’s, and the video quality is not as sharp. The air resistance can also be noisy at high intensities, though the magnetic brake helps reduce the sound. The build quality is good but not as premium as the WaterRower or Peloton Row, and some users report that the seat can be uncomfortable on longer rows.

What to look for

• Resistance type: Air resistance is best for performance training and scales with effort, water resistance provides the most natural feel, electromagnetic resistance is quiet and smooth, and hybrid systems combine benefits. Choose based on your priority for realism, noise, or data accuracy.
• Screen and content: A larger, higher-resolution screen with a rotating mount adds versatility for off-rower workouts. Consider whether the content library is exclusive to rowing or includes other workout types, and whether the subscription cost fits your budget.
• Subscription cost and value: Some machines require a monthly subscription to access connected features, while others offer a free tier or a one-year trial. Factor this into the total cost of ownership, especially if you plan to use the machine for several years.
• Build quality and footprint: Look for a sturdy frame, a comfortable seat, and adjustable footrests. Consider whether the machine folds for storage or requires dedicated floor space. Wood frames are more attractive but may require more care than steel frames.
• Data tracking and connectivity: If you are a data-driven athlete, look for a machine with a monitor that tracks split time, stroke rate, power in watts, and heart rate. Wireless connectivity to apps like Strava or Apple Health is a plus for long-term tracking.
• Noise level: Air rowers are the loudest, water rowers are moderate and calming, and electromagnetic rowers are the quietest. Consider your living situation and whether noise will be an issue for others in your home.

The verdict

The Hydrow Original is the best connected rowing machine for most people because it delivers the most immersive and engaging experience. Its electromagnetic resistance, 4K video classes, and sharp 22-inch screen make every workout feel like a real row on the water. If you are a competitive athlete who cares only about performance data, the Concept2 RowErg is the clear choice. If you are already invested in the Peloton ecosystem, the Peloton Row adds rowing at no extra subscription cost. The WaterRower Connected is the best option for those who prioritize a quiet, natural stroke feel and beautiful furniture-grade design. The NordicTrack RW900 offers the best screen-to-price ratio and a versatile iFIT subscription that covers multiple workout types. Choose the one that aligns with your priorities, and you will get a fantastic rowing experience.