The best magnetic resistance rowing machine can be a very good addition to your gym. Rowing is one of the best workout tools that can keep you fit and help you burn calories.
Since there are different types of rowing machines, they differ mainly according to their resistance mechanism and magnetic rowing machines are one of the most common rowers you will meet out there.
Magnetic rowers very suitable for non-professional rowers whose aims are just to workout, burn calories, and stay physically fit. In this article, we write about this type of rowing machine and we review some of the best you should consider in your search.
Recommended Post:
- Best rowing machine for home use
- The best knee brace for CrossFit
- Best inexpensive rowing machine under $500
What is the Best Magnetic Rowing Machine?
Hydro Magnetic Rowing Machine
Magnetic Rowing Machine and its Operation
Magnetic rowing machine as the name implies simply makes use of the magnetic field to create its resistance. This is achieved with two magnets moving past each other, close to the flywheel.
The magnet creates eddies currents that interact with the flywheel and cause it to slow down, hence creating resistance. The closer the magnets are to the flywheel, the slower the flywheel moves and the higher the resistance generated.
Since the magnets do not touch each other, there is no friction and consequently makes the operation smooth and very quiet.
Features of Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine
Resistance
The resistance in these rowing machines as said above is through eddies current brake which slows down the flywheel to create the resistance. The magnetic resistance rowing machine has a stable resistance, which means, the resistance level cannot change with the intensity of rowing. Once you set your resistance level, it stays the same no matter how fast or slow you row. However, it can be changed manually through adjustment knobs and some with buttons.
Operation
Unlike other rowing machines, a magnetic rower works very quietly and it’s one of the best rowers for home use. Since the magnets do not touch each other, no friction is created thereby ensuring, not only a quiet operation but also a smooth one.
Monitor
This type of rower comes with an LCD monitor that gives you access to check your workout variables as calories burned, time, distance, speed, and others depending on the manufacturer. The monitor can either be simple or complex to read. Compared to air resistance rowing machines, magnetic rowers do not record accurate data which is one of the downsides of choosing the rower.
Size and Weight
Magnetic resistance rowing machines mostly come in a compact size, thereby making them good choices for home, especially those with small apartments. However, some can be very heavy in weight due to the flywheel and magnets generating the resistance.
Top 10 Best Magnetic Rowing Machine
1. Sunny SF-RW5515 Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
Quick Features
- Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
- Resistance level- 8
- Product Dimensions: 82L x 19W x 23H inches
- Folded: 37L X 19W X 53. 5H inches
- LCD Monitor: Time, Count, Calorie, Total Count, and Scan
This is probably the most purchased magnetic rowing machine on Amazon and it has been reviewed by many past users giving good reports based on their experiences with the rower.
Sunny SF-RW5515 Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine comes at a very affordable price; you could hardly find a product with such its quality as its inexpensive price.
With a magnetic resistance of 8 levels, it is easier to adjust the difficulty of your rowing to your fitness level with beginners starting from level 1-3 while the expert can go from 6-8 level.
Sunny SF-RW5515 Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine should also be considered for home use. Apart from its silent operation thereby not creating noise in the home, the rower is compact in size and easy to store due to its foldable feature. It is definitely one of the best magnetic rowing machines and we recommend it.
Pros
- Easy to move around the house through its transport wheels
- Very comfortable as the seat it cushioned
- It is stable on the floor as its floor stabilizer ensure there is no wobbling
- Quiet operations
Con
- Most users complained about its warranty program.
2. Stamina Conversion II Recumbent Exercise Bike/Rower
Quick Features
- Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
- LCD monitor: speed, distance, time, calories burned, and pulse
- Resistance level: 8
- Dimensions: 75.5 x 20 x 27 inches
- Folded: 35.5 x 20 x 56 inches
Getting both a recumbent exercise bike and rowing machine in one device can be a huge one and that really sets this particular product apart. It is not only one of the best magnetic resistance rowing machines but a terrific recumbent exercise bike all together in just one product.
There are lots of great benefits to getting Stamina Conversion II Recumbent Exercise Bike/Rower. It is easier to switch from biking to rowing and this sort of ensures total body workout and helps burn calories faster.
Having this product is almost synonymous with having a complete gym as you can also use the rower handle as a strength trainer to exercise your bicep and triceps. It is a lovely product put together for a complete body workout.
The Stamina Conversion II Recumbent Exercise Bike/Rower is very easy to use and adjusted to your preferences. It is a great product for home use and one of the best magnetic rowing machines.
Pros
- Overall body workout just in one product (Biking, Rowing, and Curl or Upright row)
- Padded and cushioned seat ensures comfort
- Foldable and easily transported through wheels for easy storage
- Not a cheap product, however, very affordable
- Pulse sensor built in the handle to monitor heart rate.
Con
- It is expensive
- No pulse sensor for rowing.
3. FITNESS REALITY 1000 PLUS Bluetooth Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine
Quick Features
- Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
- Resistance level: 14
- Product Weight: 63.6 pounds
- Product dimensions: 88.5″ L x 21.5″ W x 21.5″ H
- Folded dimensions: 39.5” L x 21.5” W x 53.5” H
- Slide rail length/inseam: 39”
This is one of the self-acclaimed smartest magnetic resistance rowing machines with Bluetooth connectivity which makes it possible to connect with its free My Cloud Fitness app available on iOS and Android for tracking your workout results.
FITNESS REALITY 1000 PLUS Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine has a wide range of resistance up to 14 levels which makes it a good choice for both expert rowers and beginners.
The dimensions, especially the length make it a good fit for tall people. Therefore, it will surely be a good fit for almost all users’ height, thereby making it a good choice for family use.
The FITNESS REALITY 1000 PLUS Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine has other features that make it very comfortable to use this rower. It also folds into a compact size for easy storage.
Pros
- It is compact in size and foldable to ensure easy storage
- LCD monitor allows you to monitor your fitness goals
- Ergonomic and cushioned seat for comfort
- Wide range of resistance level, up to 14
Con
- Most previous users complained about difficulty to connect with the app.
4. NordicTrack RW 900 Rower
Quick Features
- Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
- Resistance Level: 26
- Product Dimension: 50.4” H x 22” W x 86.5” L
- 22” HD Interactive Touchscreen Display
- Free 1 year iFit membership
This is one of the few magnetic resistance rowing machines that are suitable for both home and commercial use. It is a very strong device that has the ability and strength to withstand heavy and frequent rowing.
NordicTrack RW 900 Rower is a very expensive rowing machine, in fact, one of the most expensive. However, compared to its ability, it is surely a great buy and a good addition to your home gym.
The magnetic rowing machine comes with a 1-year iFit family membership. This makes it possible to have live interactive sessions with your fitness training right at the comfort of your home through its 22” HD Interactive Touchscreen Display.
The NordicTrack RW 900 Rower works very silently, creating no disturbance to people around you during your workout session. It is definitely one of the best magnetic resistance rowing machines to consider in your search and a good one for home use.
Pros
- It is very strong and durable
- Access to live studio and interactive session with a fitness trainer at home
- Very wide resistance range, up to 26 level
- It is compact in size and design
- Silent Magnetic Resistance gives a smooth and quiet operation
- It can be folded to save space.
- Good warranty program for buying assurance
Con
- It is expensive
5. MaxKare Magnetic Rowing Machine
Quick Features
- Weight Capacity: 243 pounds
- Weight of Product: 64 pounds
- Inseam Length: 45 inches
- Level of Resistance: 16
- Frame Material: Steel
- Digital Monitor: Time, Count, Calories, Total count
This magnetic resistance rowing machine is also one of the best products to consider while hunting for a rower. It is made with alloy steel, thereby ensuring its strength and durability.
MaxKare Magnetic Rowing Machine has a high weight capacity and long inseam length which makes it suitable for users of different weight and height. This flexibility also makes it a good choice for home use.
The rower can easily be folded to a compact size, this, together with transport wheels for easy transport makes it easy to store in a safe place and help manage space within your gym room very effectively.
The comfort of the use is very vital and that is why the maker MaxKare Magnetic Rowing Machine takes that mostly into consideration. Its handgrip and seat are cushioned which makes it comfortable for the user while rowing.
Pros
- It is very comfortable to use
- 16-level resistance gives a wide range of difficulty level
- Non-slip handle and cushioned seat
- It can be folded for storage.
Con
- The weight capacity of 243 pounds can be considered to be inadequate for big folks.
6. SereneLife Rowing Machine
Quick Features
- Weight Capacity: 250 pounds
- Product Weight: 63 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 77.2’’ L x 16.1’’ W x 29.9’’ H
- Folded: 3” L x 17. 7” W x 53. 1” H
The magnetic rowing machine also offers a smooth rowing experience through many features, especially those that aid the comfort of the user like the large and cushioned seat with a non-slip padded handle.
SereneLife Rowing Machine is very strong especially for home use, although, it is can be used for commercial purposes but should only be considered as a backup as it may not be a good choice for heavy users.
The magnetic rower is made with steel metal alloy thereby giving the frame strength and ensures durability. It is strong enough and recommended for users not weighing more than 250 pounds.
SereneLife Rowing Machine only has 8 magnetic resistance levels. We personally recommend this for home use, especially for beginners and people who do not row frequently. It is overall a great buy for its price.
Pros
- Great product with reasonable price
- It folds to almost half its length for easy storage
- Well-built and is easy to assemble and use
- One year warranty gives buying assurance on both the frame and parts.
Con
- Most users complained about its display unit
See also:
7. Fitness Reality 4000MR Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine
Quick Features
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Dual-arm movement
- Adjustable workout program
- Folded Dimensions: 45”L x 25”W x 59”H
- 16-level dual magnetic tension
The rower is one of the best magnetic rowing machines and this is particularly suitable for tall people between the heights of 5 ft. to 6ft-5in. it has a high seat which makes it easy to get down from it after usage, a perfect choice for people with bad legs.
Fitness Reality 4000MR Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine has a very large and cushioned seat. Its handles are padded and made with non-slip material, all to ensure the comfort of the user while rowing.
Furthermore, the magnetic rower is strong with the frame made with steel, giving it a weight capacity of 300 pounds. The construction is robust with floor stabilizers to prevent wobbling while rowing.
Fitness Reality 4000MR Magnetic Rower Rowing Machine also comes with a large LCD with backlights to help track your workout and set your fitness goals and program. It is one of the best magnetic resistance rowing machines you can consider in your search.
Pros
- High weight capacity to carry most users
- Dual arms also give full arm movement
- Wide range of resistance level
- It folds into almost half its size and can be transported through a wheel for easy storage
- The machine is strong and sturdy
- A good warranty program will give buying assurance.
Con
- The machine is very heavy
8. Schwinn Crewmaster Rowing Machine
Quick Features
- Weight Limit: 300 pounds
- Resistance level: 10
This rowing machine is also one of the best with magnetic resistance mechanisms. It is strong, durable, made with quality material, and comes at an affordable price.
Checking Schwinn Crewmaster Rowing Machine, it has all the basic features that would make your rowing machine not only effective but seamless and comfortable for the user.
The rower has a 10 level resistance that makes it easy to adjust the difficulty level to your fitness level. You will also enjoy its total silent operation which makes it a great choice for home use as it will not cause any disturbances.
Overall, the Schwinn Crewmaster Rowing Machine is a good product, especially for the price. It is a good choice for home use but should not be considered by heavy rowers.
Pros
- Good warranty program for buying assurance
- It is easy to assemble and use
- Large cushioned seat ensures comfort
Cons
- Most buyers complain about its accuracy with calories count
- It does not fold for storage
9. TOE Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine
Quick Features
- Weight Capacity: 264 pounds
- Assembled Dimensions: 75.3L x 23.6W x 20H Inches
- Weight: 66 Pounds
- Resistance level: 8
- Frame Construction: Steel
If you are looking for something with a very quiet operation, sturdy and strong for home use, then you may want to consider this rower. The frame is constructed with steel and is capable of carrying up to 264 pounds user weight
TOE Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine is affordable; however, it is more expensive than other common magnetic resistance rowers.
The magnetic rower is very compact when completely assembled. To make it easier to store, you can also fold it into almost half its length, its transport wheels also make it easy to move from one place to the other around the home.
TOE Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine is a very efficient machine for total body workout. It also comes with an LCD to monitor your fitness data and adjustable resistance to help you adjust the workout difficulty to your fitness level.
Pros
- Very quiet operation through Silent Magnetic Resistance
- It is stable and has a smooth operation
- Well-padded seat for comfort
- Very compact and saves space
Con
- It is expensive
10. Circuit Fitness Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine
Quick Features
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Product’s weight: 90 pounds
- Folded dimension: 49 L x 20.5 W x 51 H inches
- Assemble Dimension 71” L x 20. 5” W x 31. 5” H
- Flywheel weight: 11 pounds
The magnetic rower is made from heavy-duty steel which gives it a strong and durable appearance. It weighs 90 pounds and has a weight capacity of 300 pounds.
Circuit Fitness Deluxe Foldable Magnetic Rowing Machine also features foam-covered handlebars and adjustable foot straps for superior grip and stability. This added foam padded seat ensures maximum comfort for the user.
This is also one of the best magnetic resistance rowing machines we recommend for family usage. It can also be gotten as a backup to your main rower as it is not suitable for heavy rowing.
Pros
- The seat is padded for comfort
- It is very easy to assemble
- Very quiet in operation
- It folds into a small compact size when it’s not in use.
Con
- It is not suitable for heavy rowers
Benefits of Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machine
Why should you consider a magnetic resistance rower? Below are some of the benefits of selecting the best magnetic resistance rowing machine:
Quiet Operation for Home Use
This type of rowing machine had the quietest operation thereby making them a good choice for home as there won’t be any noise that can disturb others.
Wide Range of Resistance
This makes it a good choice for everyone, from beginners to expert rowers as you can easily set the resistance level to your fitness level. Some magnetic rowers have up to 24 resistance levels while some do not have more than 8 levels.
Compact-Great for Small Space
Magnetic rowers have the most compact size compared to other rowers; this makes them a great choice for folks with small apartments.
Good for Cardio
Like other rowing machines, magnetic rowers also give great cardiovascular exercises. These rowers are mainly for exercise as they do not mimic real-life rowing experience, so, they are only meant to burn calories and complete overall body exercises.
Who should not buy a Magnetic Rowing Machine?
The type of rowers selected should depend on the users’ preference. However, a magnetic resistance rowing machine is not suitable for professional rowing athletes for training purposes. They need more from something that mimics real-life rowing like a water and air resistance rowing machine which increases resistance based on how fast the rowing handle is pulled. Concept2 rowing machine is a good air resistance rowing machine and one of the best products in that category.
How to Select the Best Magnetic Resistance Rowing Machines
Space Available
What space is available to keep your rowing machine will determine the product you should go for. Though magnetic resistance rowing machines are most compact, however, they do not come with the same design and size, therefore, it is vital to consider the space available in your home and ensure to select a product that will be well fitted to it.
Weight of the User
All rowing machines come with different maximum weight capacity which is the maximum users’ weight they can carry. Therefore, you need to check this out and ensure you select a product with more weight capacity than your body weight.
The dimension of the Rower
How long is the rower? What is the inseam length? This is vital and must be considered especially for tall individuals. Some products may not be suitable for your height while there will be others that are a perfect fit for you.
Folding Design
People with small apartments might need to consider this before selecting a rowing machine. If you do not need to wheel your equipment to storage, you may not need a folding design. However, if you will like to manage space, then, it is inevitable to select a product with folding capability.
Weight of the Rower
You should consider the weight of the rower if you will need to transport the machine from one room to the other. Lighter products are easier to move than heavy rowers.
Magnetic vs. Air Resistance. Is Magnetic Rower Better than Air?
Similarities Between Magnetic and Air Rowers
- Both are great cardio workout machine
- They both make use of the handle and strap attached to the flywheel
- Both work on the same muscles and strengthen the same muscle
- The same rowing technique is used for both
- They both come at affordable and expensive prices
The differences
The resistance mechanism is the only difference between magnetic and air resistance which further makes them differ in the following ways:
- Air resistance makes noise compared to magnetic rowers which have quieter operations
- The resistance in air rowers is not constant; it changes with the intensity of rowing while magnetic has a constant resistance no matter how fast you row until you manually change it from the knob.
- Air rowers make use of air to generate resistance while magnetic uses magnet creating eddies current.
- Air resistance rower is more similar to real-life rowing on water, thereby making it suitable for professional rowers’ training while magnetic cannot be used for this purpose.