The best compact rowing machines for small spaces in 2025

If space is limited, don’t let the length of the rowing machine hold you back. While there are many great Rowing machines On the market, there are also some great compact alternatives that offer all the same technical features you’ll find in other cardio machines.

During our search for the best compact rowing machine, we found a range of excellent stand-alone options that pair well with other top-rated machines Home gym equipment. We took into account the overall footprint and other key features, and looked through reviews to see what users were saying about each product. Here is our list of the best compact home rowing machines available.

How we picked the best compact rowing machines

The rowing machines on this list have been carefully selected based on what most users want from a rowing machine, keeping in mind that they need a smaller footprint and foldable or upright storage options. We evaluated each option based on size, portability, cost, high-tech features, versatility, and durability. We also looked into reviews to see what users are saying about each rowing machine.

Our picks for the best compact rowing machines in 2025:

Best compact rowing machine overall: Hydrow Wave

Hydro wave paddling

4.0

• Dimensions: 80″L x 19″W x 43″H
• storage: Upright stores
• resistance: Magnetic
• Weight Capacity: 375 pounds
• an offer: 16 inch HD touch screen
• Available programming: Live and on-demand workouts, and scenic classes

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On the Hydrow website, Hydro wave It has a rating of 4.6/5 stars with over 9,000 reviews at the time of writing. It’s a compact, budget-friendly branding option for those who want to elevate their products Workout routine at home. At just 80 inches long, it’s the shortest on this list, and the overall size is 30 percent shorter than the original Hydrow Rower. You can’t fold it, but there is the option to store it upright using the Hydrow Wave Vertical Anchor. This is a wall-mounted belt that holds the rower upright. It costs an extra $190, which is a bit pricey.

The frame is made of aluminum and steel. It has a flat body of anthracite polymer, which is a durable and lightweight material. The handle features an ergonomic design for a low-pressure grip, and the strap is made of water- and mildew-resistant polyester fabric. It also has a patented electromagnetic drag system that simulates the experience of paddling in open water.

Overall, the reviews on the Hydrow website are positive, with many mentioning how quiet the machine is and how impressed they are with its small size. One review says: “The machine is of great quality. It’s quiet and stylish looking.” Critical reviews make up 3 percent of overall reviews and status issues such as non-functioning parts are delivered. However, Hydrow responded to each review to resolve any issues.

Best compact rowing machine with trainer-led workouts: NordicTrack RW700

Nordic Track RW700

4.2

• Dimension: 87″L x 22″W x 47″H
• Resistance type: Magnetic
• Subscription: Not required; A compatible iFIT membership is $39 per month
• storage: It can be moved using the front wheels
• Weight Limit: 250 pounds

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The NordicTrack RW700 has a 10-inch HD touchscreen that you can tilt and rotate to follow along with your favorite coach’s iFIT workout on or off the rower. An iFIT subscription costs $39 per month, and you will have access to live and on-demand classes. Membership in Fitness app It is not necessary to use a paddle. However, you will not be able to access instructor-led classes without it.

Instructor-led paddling gives you the option of paddling in open water for a more scenic experience, and there are also studio sessions. Resistance automatically adjusts between 26 resistance levels during each class, so you don’t have 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 rower movements into their workout.

The rail is 87 inches long and made of durable steel. It has an inertia-enhanced flywheel, so it must 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 it, making it a quieter option. After exercise, this magnetic rowing machine can be moved using the front wheels, but it cannot be folded.

Best compact folding rowing machine: ProForm Pro R10

Proform Pro R10

4.0

• Dimensions: 86.5″L x 22″W x 45.5″H
• Resistance type: Magnetic
• Subscription: Not required; A compatible iFIT subscription is $39 per month
• storage: Folding
• Weight Limit: 250 pounds

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The ProForm Pro R10 folds down to a smaller size by lifting the handle, and front-mounted transport wheels make it easy to move. It comes with a 10-inch HD touchscreen that you can use for iFIT workouts if you choose to subscribe, or you can track your watt rate, calories burned, time, strokes, and distance in manual mode. There are 24 resistance levels to choose from, and workout intensity is adjusted using the brand’s trademark silent magnetic resistance system. This gives the user the option of having a more cardio or strength focused workout.

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

Best compact rowing machine for cross-training: Echelon Row-s

Row row-S

4.2

• Dimensions: 84″L x 21″W x 47″H
• Resistance type: Magnetic
• Subscription: Not required; An Echelon Fit subscription is $35 per month
• storage: Folding
• Weight Limit: 300 pounds

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If you want to incorporate other movements into your rowing workout or off-row training, the Echelon Row-s has a 22-inch HD touchscreen that can be flipped 180 degrees. Although an Echelon Fit subscription isn’t required, the $35-a-month add-on workout app gives you access to more than 40 live classes and more than 1,000 on-demand workouts from its library, including rowing, cycling, running, and functional training classes.

The ergonomic seat design and the ability to adjust the foot pads to a comfortable position helps you maintain proper posture and alignment. If you’re short on space, the length ranges from 84 inches to just 41 inches when folded. On the Echelon website, this rower has a rating of 4.6/5 stars. “The machine looks great, runs very quietly, and provides a great workout no matter your level,” says reviewer Brett B.

Best value compact rowing machine: NordicTrack RW600

Nordic Track RW600

Dimensions: 87.02″L x 22.0″W x 47.24″H

storage: Folds in half for vertical storage

resistance: Air and magnets

Weight Capacity: 250 pounds

an offer: 10 inch HD smart touch screen

Available programming: Live and on-demand workouts, and scenic classes

Check price

The NordicTrack RW600 balances great technical features with 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 with 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.

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

How to choose the best compact rowing machine for you

What factors should you consider before you pull the trigger on a paddler? Here’s what we advise you to consider when considering your purchasing decision:

Footprint

Once you’ve located your rower, it’s a good idea to measure the length, width, and height of your space to determine the size of machine that works best. You’ll need to measure the height to see if you have enough room to store the rowers upright.

budget

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

Features

Ask yourself: How many levels of resistance do I need? Am I looking for a high-resolution touchscreen with instructor-led lessons or do I prefer a simpler display? Other features, such as the magnetic resistance system, may be important if you’re in a shared space and need a quieter device. The maximum height and/or weight capacity of the rower may also play a role in your decision as well.

Benefits of rowing exercise

Rowing allows you to perform low-impact, cardio-based training, and you can adjust the resistance for a strength-focused session. It is a full body exercise that is used 86% of your muscles. With each stroke, you are using your core and legs for the initial pull and finishing the rowing motion using your upper body. Since you are in a sitting position, there is less stress on the knee and ankle joints.

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

Final thoughts

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

Frequently asked questions