Rowing is frequently called as the king of cardio. It works on almost the entire body and you can easily use it at home. It works mainly on the oblique muscle, abs, upper back, biceps, and chest.
Rowing machine has a good muscle toning and working capabilities. It can also be used as a cardiovascular exercise with lower resistance and higher reps.
If you hate running on a treadmill then, magnetic rowing machine is a good choice for your cardio workouts. There are hundreds of rowing machines to choose from, so where do you start?
In this article, we’ll look at the more affordable end of the rower market – the best magnetic rowing machines under $500! We have 8 awesome and highest-rated magnetic rower for you that won’t break the bank, but are still extremely reliable and top quality rowers.
| Image | Top 4 Magnetic Rowing Machines | Current Price |
|---|---|---|
 | Goplus Magnetic Rowing Machine | |
 | XTERRA Fitness ERG700 | |
 | Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 | |
 | Circuit Fitness Magnetic Rower |
Top 8 Best Magnetic Rowing Machines Under $500 Reviews
1. Goplus Magnetic Rowing Machine – Our Top Pick
It is the best magnetic rowing machine under $500 on the market today for its various unique features. You’ll get a smooth and efficient movement with every stroke and it is completely “wind resistant”. It can change and adjust through 10 levels of magnetic resistance.
Goplus Magnetic Rowing Machine is extremely comfortable to use with an upholstered, large footplates and padded sliding seat. The multi-function monitor will give you various essential information’s such as the speed, time, distance, and calories burned. It will help you to make your workout the most efficient.
This best rowing machine has adjustable nylon foot straps that hold feet securely in place and can accommodate to any size user. You will also like the oversized seat rail supports that make it extremely smooth-sliding. It also comes with an angled seat rail for easy seat return, and the textured grips keep hands stable and comfortable while rowing—no more calluses!
This Magnetic Rowing Machine can be folded up easily and so, put away for storing is also made simple. The floor protector helps to prevent skidding while moving it around. Finally, you can enjoy this rowing machine for years to come with a sturdy steel construction that’s built to last for long time.
2. XTERRA Fitness ERG700 – Most Advanced
The XTERRA Fitness ERG700 is the most advanced magnetic rowing machine on the market. Firstly, this machine is solid and sturdy. It offers ABS, aluminum, and steel parts in its construction frame. You can use this rower for a long time without it getting damaged as the metallic parts are coated with a chip-resistant and corrosion-resistant paint.
You will love the air & magnetic resistance system that delivers a firm response during rowing. For more dynamism, it has 16 levels of resistance. As you start rowing, the resistance level increases, offering you to challenge yourself and achieve more. That means you will get firm and dynamic response during rowing workouts.
This rowing machine can be folded and it is also easy to assemble. Additionally, using the unit’s set of wheels; it can easily be relocated from one place to another. This machine will also give you perfect stability when rowing. The bases have adjustable levelers that possess rubberized pad for its stability.
The icing on the cake, it has a advanced programmable console. The LCD screen will show you all your workout information. We have found one down side of this equipment; we deplore the fact that it does not have Bluetooth connectivity.
3. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 – Best Home Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 comes with all the features in a simple, efficient build. If you’re looking for a great magnetic rowing machine under $500 that can not only get your workout done at home but push you to be better, this is it.
The Sunny Health & Fitness rowing machine comes with 8 different levels of tension. It works with magnetic resistance, which is quiet. Using magnetic capability, you can easily adjust it by just twisting the knob, so you can reach out and pull yourself as you go—not even missing a beat in your rowing workout. Works with magnetic resistance, which is quiet
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 can hold up to 250 lbs and is adjustable for larger users. The large, textured pedals have safety straps to keep you safe while using the machine. To make you more secured, the rower pedals are anti-slip with a non-slip surface.
The simple-solution seat of this magnetic rower is cushioned and padded so you can ride in comfort throughout your rowing training. It also comes with an LCD monitor to continuously display you workout statistics throughout your entire workout.
4. Circuit Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
First of all, CIRCUIT FITNESS is an excellent machine for rowing at home. It currently costs under $ 500 and is relatively inexpensive. Most people think its worth more than the price.
This unit provides 8 resistance settings. The lighter setting of this magnetic rower is great for continuous repetition, while the higher setting is popular for building muscle and performing fewer reps.
Your feet are safe while paddling with non-slip footrests and integrated straps. This top rowing machine is very popular and highly rated. It can be easily transported due to the foldable body and integrated wheels. Made of aluminum and steel, you’ll be impressed with the robust build quality for the price.
Users say: “I just bought this and assembled it easily, in no time, with the tools provided. It worked perfectly on the first try and it’s very quiet. It provides a good range of resistance and has a smooth pull option. The screen has better options than others at this price. The seat and handle are more comfortable than the higher priced concept rowing machine. I am only a few miles away, but It feel like a great rower. I am very happy customer so far. ”
5. JOROTO Magnetic Rower
This JOROTO magnetic rowing machine costs less than $ 500. The aluminum frame is very strong and its operation is quieter than normal.
You will get 10 levels of resistance and built-in wheels for easy movement. It weighs just 53 pounds, but you’ll be dazzled by its 300-pound weight capacity.
Some other noteworthy qualities are the integrated cup holder, LCD screen, and the handy phone holder. Overall it is a good and reliable rowing machine for your home and we think you will be satisfied with it.
Users say: “It took me about 45 minutes to put this together. The instructions are easy to read. And as a rowing beginner, I don’t think I could have found a better fitness machine. I’m 5’9 and weighed 259 pounds when I started using JOROTO rowing machine. I’ve been using this for a while. “45 minutes to an hour each night. I have it for about a month and it came down to 241. Great workout! The machine is easy to move and very strong and durable too. ”
6. Body Power 3-in-1 Conversion Rowing Machine
Although the Body Power 3-in-1 rowing machine isn’t necessarily the most popular on the list, we think it’s a noteworthy rowing machine worth under $ 500. It has a stylish design with a solid build quality for the price.
One of the standout features that sets it apart from the rest is its 3-in-1 ability. Not only can you paddle the traditional way, but you can also do an entire row or use separate resistance cables for bicep curves.
As the first machine on this list, it also folds into a compact design that reduces space when not in use. You will also find a built-in LCD screen. With 8 resistance settings and built-in wheels for transport, it’s a great choice for your home.
Users say: “It’s very easy to assemble. I did it myself in about 30 minutes. The machine is quiet and easy to store. I highly recommend this rowing machine. I bought it after knee surgery. The machine works on whole body.”
7. Merax Rowing Machine
For good reasons, Merax rower has the highest customer reviews of any rowing machine under $ 500. There are a host of reasons why it’s our favorite on this list.
It is the best compact rowing machine that offers a superior build quality that far exceeds the price. It has 400 pounds of weight capacity and is the most powerful on this list. Don’t forget it also has nice and convenient LCD screen, built-in wheels, easy folding to save space, oversized seat, and good performance.
This indoor rowing machine is made of aluminum and built to last. You will also find that a larger than average footrest is quite functional. All in all, a good choice for your home gym!
Users say, “6,378 pounds, I put on enough pounds year after year and opted to row as a first step. This rower is smooth and strong enough that feels really good. I started with a YouTube starter program and was going every night. It’s been two weeks now. I’m not stopping anytime soon. I should have bought these years ago. ”
8. SereneLife Magnetic Rower
Surprisingly, SereneLife took a drastic price cut of 17% from the original amount. While we’re not sure if this discount is temporary or permanent, we believe it’s an incredible investment for less than $ 500 either way.
You’ll find the padded seat and handlebar grip quite comfortable. With an integrated LCD computer, it displays distance traveled, calories burned, steps and time. Another exclusive feature is that it measures your pulse and displays it on the screen.
Some of the other qualities are the 10 levels of resistance, aluminum frame, and a decent weight capacity of 250 lbs. We think you will be very happy with it because of its low cost.
Users say: “I am very happy to have this rowing machine in my house. It is right next to my spin bike. I can switch between it and the bike in a few moments, and exercise my legs and then my arms etc. The rowing machine was not very difficult to put it together, just follow the instructions carefully and you will be fine. Get more than a decent workout at home without an expensive gym membership. I can watch TV or make phone calls while exercising. I can work out my abs, arms and upper body in general without a lot of stress or fatigue. I can’t wait to see how much weight I can lose this summer. ”
Why You Should Choose A Magnetic Rowing Machine
Let’s start with the most important part, what makes the magnetic rowing machine special and distinguishes it from the traditional type.
Accurate Resistance Selection
Conventional rowing machines differ from most cardio machines in that they do not have specific resistance settings. Its resistance is generated by the air absorbed by the flywheel. This resistance then fluctuates according to the speed at which the user rows.
Sure, there’s a damper on the side that allows you to adjust the vents, thus controlling the amount of air going in and out, but you can’t know exactly what level you’re training at from session to session.
With a magnetic rowing machine, you have resistance settings that are more in line with other cardio equipment. This allows you to choose the exact resistance you want to work with, ensuring continuity with each exercise and helping you measure your progress.
The Missing Peace
The biggest drawbacks to conventional rowing is their loudness, as the constant drawing of air through the steering wheel creates a lot of noise. While this may not seem like a problem in a crowded gym, when looking for equipment for home use it is a much bigger problem. The last thing you want to do is wake up early to get a pre-workout and you have to choose between rowing or not poking your family up on you all day because you woke them up.
With a magnetic rowing machine, you don’t have to choose, because its mechanism is quieter than you might find in a conventional air-powered rower. This means that you can paddle to your heart’s content, without disturbing anyone, whether they are watching TV, sleeping, or having a little bit of peace and quiet.
How Does Magnetic Resistance of Rowing Machine Work?
Instead, the flywheel has powerful magnets around it that allow you to manually adjust the resistance.
When you want more resistance, the magnets will be closer together and when you want an easier exercise, they will be more apart. This works because the closer two magnets are, the greater the attraction between them.
This is usually controlled by a dial, button, or directly on the touch screen, which makes it very easy to set it up whenever you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are magnetic rowers better than air?
Its a common question of everyone: what is the best rowing machine air or magnetic? Well, the main difference between the two type of rowers is that air-dependent rowers have more resistance based on how fast / force you pull them, while magnetic rowing machine always have the same level of resistance that you can choose before a workout.
When it comes to rowing machines, there’s no “one for all”. It all depends on your needs. An air-driven rowing machine is the most common type of rowers and also most all-rounded in terms of features and accessibility. But, if noise (and price) is a big issue for you, a magnetic rowing machine might be a better purchase .
Can You Lose Belly Fat With The Rowing Machine?
The answer is yes. Rowing machines offers cardio exercises that are great for losing belly fat and also help you build and define your upper body muscles.
Are Water-based rowers better than magnetic?
Water based rowing devices provide more resistance based on water displacement during exercise and are ideal for people who want a feeling of paddling on the water. It’s more of a matter of preference.
Should I row every day?
Rowing can be done daily and for hours depending on intensity if you want. Its a like cycling or walking on the road. Intensity is the secret. You can’t do rowing very hard every day, but 30/60 min on a moderate pace is fine.
Is 20 minutes of rowing enough?
Well, how much rowing is is sufficient, it completely depends on your goals, objectives, and body type. 20 minutes is ideal for a high-intensity short session.
How long does it take to see results from rowing?
Stein says, “If you do this rowing routine 3 days a week with proper nutrition you can start to see results in as little as 14 days.
Does Rowing build leg muscle?
As well as weight loss and muscle toning, using a good magnetic rowing machine will benefit those who want to build leg muscle too. The drive motion of rowing machine, works the muscles in your lower body, including your Glutes, Quads and Hamstrings. So, yes rowing build leg muscles for sure.
What happens if I row every day?
My recommendation for you is that you should take 2-days off to let your body recover. That means you don’t have to row everyday because over-training can increase your injuries. Many people who try to row everyday too quickly can face back pain. Always try to row slow first and allow your body to adjust to new workouts and routines after that when you body is ready to go you can increase the intensity.
Final Verdict
Bear in mind that our opinion is not the end of everything. As mentioned above, everyone has different requirements, needs, and budgets for a rowing machine. However, our winner for the Best Magnetic Rowing Machines Under $500 is Goplus Magnetic Rowing Machine due to its excellent performance and solid build quality. And you can get this cardio machine for just $250. Not only do we think it is a great value but it also ranks perfectly among the users.
