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- Best overall: Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs
- Best budget: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine
- Best premium: Hydrow Origin Rower
- Best for compact storage: Hydrow Wave Rower
- Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs is the standout for performance tracking, durability and a 500-pound user capacity.
- Hydrow Wave Rower is the connected-training pick, with a 16-inch touchscreen and instructor-led rowing classes.
- WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine with S4 Performance Monitor offers a distinctive water-resistance feel and wood construction.
- Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is a straightforward, compact choice for shoppers who want basic indoor rowing.
- Compare resistance style, training features, storage and user fit before choosing a Black Friday 2026 rower.
The Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs is the best all-around pick for performance-focused rowing, while the Hydrow Wave Rower is the better match for shoppers who want guided classes on a built-in screen. Both machines suit home training, but their resistance systems and workout experiences differ.
For this Black Friday 2026 guide, I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback across established rowing machines. The picks below cover performance tracking, connected workouts, water resistance and value-focused basics, so you can choose a rower that fits your space and routine—not just a headline feature.
How We Picked
- Compared resistance systems, including air, water, magnetic and electromagnetic options.
- Reviewed display size, workout tracking and access to guided or subscription-based training.
- Considered dimensions, storage approach and user capacity where manufacturers publish those details.
- Prioritized models with clear use cases, established product lines and useful owner feedback.
- Selected a range of rowers for performance-focused, connected, traditional and value-minded shoppers.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Resistance system | Display or monitor | Standout capacity or feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs | Performance tracking | Air | PM5 | 500-pound user capacity |
| Hydrow Wave Rower | Compact connected classes | Electromagnetic | 16-inch touchscreen | 375-pound maximum user weight |
| Hydrow Origin Rower | Premium connected training | Electromagnetic | 22-inch touchscreen | 375-pound maximum user weight |
| WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine with S4 Performance Monitor | Water resistance and wood design | Water | S4 Performance Monitor | 100-inch overall length |
| Ergatta Lite Rower | Game-based workouts | Water | 17.3-inch touchscreen | Upright storage |
| NordicTrack RW900 Rower | Digital fitness variety | Magnetic | 24-inch touchscreen | 26 resistance levels |
| Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine | Simple beginner cardio | Magnetic | Basic digital monitor | 8 resistance levels |
Concept2 RowErg vs Hydrow Wave Rower Black Friday Deals 2026
#1 · Top pick
Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs
The Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs is the best overall rower for performance-focused home athletes, with a 14-inch seat height and a PM5 Performance Monitor.
Best for: Rowers who value measurable training and durable, straightforward equipment.
- Resistance
- Air
- Monitor
- PM5
- Seat height
- 14 inches
- User capacity
- 500 pounds
- PM5 tracks pace, distance, time and power.
- Separates into two pieces for storage.
- Large user community and compatible training apps.
- Air resistance creates noticeable fan noise.
- No built-in touchscreen or instructor-led class library.
Is the Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs is a strong Black Friday 2026 choice for rowers who want reliable performance metrics, air resistance and a 500-pound user capacity without a built-in class screen.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2
Hydrow Wave Rower
The Hydrow Wave Rower is the best connected rower for class-focused households, pairing a 16-inch touchscreen with electromagnetic resistance.
Best for: Shoppers who want instructor-led workouts and a compact connected machine.
- Resistance
- Electromagnetic
- Display
- 16-inch touchscreen
- Maximum user weight
- 375 pounds
- Storage
- Upright storage with anchor
- Guided workouts are presented on the built-in display.
- Compact design compared with the Hydrow Origin.
- Quiet electromagnetic resistance suits shared spaces.
- Connected features rely on a paid membership.
- A screen-centered experience is less appealing to app-free rowers.
Is the Hydrow Wave Rower worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Hydrow Wave Rower is a good Black Friday 2026 pick for shoppers who want instructor-led classes, a 16-inch touchscreen and quiet electromagnetic resistance in a compact connected rower.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3
Hydrow Origin Rower
The Hydrow Origin Rower is the best premium connected option for immersive home workouts, featuring a 22-inch touchscreen and electromagnetic resistance.
Best for: Dedicated class streamers who want a larger display and full-size frame.
- Resistance
- Electromagnetic
- Display
- 22-inch touchscreen
- Maximum user weight
- 375 pounds
- Storage
- Upright storage with anchor
- Large touchscreen makes instructor-led sessions easy to follow.
- Quiet resistance fits indoor training.
- Broad selection of coached workouts.
- Membership is needed for the full connected experience.
- Requires more room than compact rower designs.
Is the Hydrow Origin Rower worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Hydrow Origin Rower is worth considering for a premium connected setup, especially when a large 22-inch touchscreen and a wide library of instructor-led workouts are priorities.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4
WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine with S4 Performance Monitor
The WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine with S4 Performance Monitor is the best water-resistance pick for traditional home gyms, with a 100-inch overall length.
Best for: Rowers who prefer a smooth water feel and a wood-frame aesthetic.
- Resistance
- Water
- Monitor
- S4 Performance Monitor
- Overall length
- 100 inches
- Frame
- Solid ash wood
- Water resistance produces a fluid rowing stroke.
- Wood frame has a furniture-like appearance.
- Monitor reports key workout measurements.
- Water tank requires occasional care.
- Long frame needs a dedicated workout footprint.
Is the WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine with S4 Performance Monitor worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine with S4 Performance Monitor is a worthwhile pick for shoppers who prefer water resistance, a wood frame and a more traditional rowing feel over a built-in streaming screen.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
Ergatta Lite Rower
The Ergatta Lite Rower is the best game-led connected rower for motivated home users, with a 17.3-inch touchscreen and water resistance.
Best for: Shoppers who prefer interactive games and progress challenges to coach-led classes.
- Resistance
- Water
- Display
- 17.3-inch touchscreen
- Frame
- Wood
- Storage
- Upright storage
- Game-based workouts add variety to training.
- Water resistance delivers a smooth stroke.
- Personalized programs track progress.
- Full interactive features require a membership.
- Game-focused training is not every rower's preference.
Is the Ergatta Lite Rower worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Ergatta Lite Rower suits shoppers who stay engaged through games and progress challenges, with a 17.3-inch touchscreen and water resistance for a more interactive home workout.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
NordicTrack RW900 Rower
The NordicTrack RW900 Rower is the best choice for varied digital workouts, combining a 24-inch touchscreen with 26 resistance levels.
Best for: Households that want instructor-led rowing and broader fitness programming.
- Resistance levels
- 26
- Display
- 24-inch touchscreen
- Resistance
- Magnetic
- Storage
- Foldable frame
- Large display supports guided workouts.
- Multiple resistance levels support varied sessions.
- Foldable design helps reclaim floor space.
- Interactive programming depends on a membership.
- Screen-based training adds more setup than a basic rower.
Is the NordicTrack RW900 Rower worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The NordicTrack RW900 Rower is a strong pick for shoppers seeking a large 24-inch screen, 26 resistance levels and guided workouts in a foldable machine.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is the best budget-style pick for simple home cardio, with 8 magnetic resistance levels.
Best for: Beginners who want basic rowing without a connected display.
- Resistance levels
- 8
- Resistance
- Magnetic
- Maximum user weight
- 250 pounds
- Monitor
- Basic digital monitor
- Simple controls suit beginner workouts.
- Magnetic resistance runs quietly.
- Basic monitor keeps track of core workout metrics.
- No built-in touchscreen or coached classes.
- Limited resistance range compared with premium rowers.
Is the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is a practical Black Friday 2026 option for beginners who want quiet magnetic resistance, 8 levels and straightforward home cardio.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Concept2 RowErg vs Hydrow Wave Rower: which is better?
The Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs is better for measurable, self-directed training, while the Hydrow Wave Rower is better for guided workouts on a 16-inch screen. The right choice depends on whether you value performance data or an instructor-led experience.
The Concept2 RowErg uses air resistance and a PM5 monitor that displays core rowing metrics. The familiar setup works well for athletes who follow their own programs, connect compatible apps or want a machine used across a broad range of training environments. Its 500-pound user capacity is another standout spec.
The Hydrow Wave Rower uses electromagnetic resistance and centers training around its touchscreen and class library. A membership supports the connected experience. Best bet: choose the Concept2 RowErg for open-ended training and the Hydrow Wave Rower for guided sessions and on-screen coaching.
What makes the Hydrow Wave Rower different from the Hydrow Origin Rower?
The Hydrow Wave Rower has a 16-inch touchscreen and compact design, while the Hydrow Origin Rower upgrades the display to 22 inches for a more immersive connected setup. Both use electromagnetic resistance and support instructor-led workouts.
For shoppers with limited room or a preference for a smaller screen, the Wave offers the more space-conscious route into Hydrow’s class experience. The Origin suits people who want a larger display as the focal point of a home gym and expect to spend regular time following video-led sessions.
Easy recommendation: pick the Hydrow Wave Rower when a compact connected machine is the priority; choose the Hydrow Origin Rower when screen size and a premium workout presentation matter more. Review membership needs and available floor space before choosing either model.
Which rowing machine is best for beginners?
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is the simplest beginner pick, with 8 resistance levels and a basic digital monitor. Its straightforward controls keep the focus on learning a steady rowing rhythm rather than navigating a connected workout system.
Shoppers who want instruction and a more engaging training plan can look at the Hydrow Wave Rower or NordicTrack RW900 Rower. Both add a touchscreen experience and guided programming, while the Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs offers clear performance measurements for beginners who enjoy tracking progress independently.
Start with the routine you expect to follow. A basic rower works well for repeatable cardio sessions; a class-focused machine suits people who like coaching and variety. Check user-weight limits, footprint and seat fit before committing to any model.
Which rower is best for water resistance?
The WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine with S4 Performance Monitor is the traditional water-resistance pick, while the Ergatta Lite Rower adds a 17.3-inch touchscreen and game-based workouts to a water-resistance setup.
Water resistance creates a smooth stroke that changes with the force of each pull, which appeals to shoppers seeking a more fluid feel. The WaterRower’s wood construction also has a distinctive home-gym appearance. Its S4 monitor reports workout information without making a large video display the center of the experience.
The Ergatta Lite Rower is the better fit for shoppers who want water resistance plus interactive challenges and progress tracking. Compare the connected features and membership requirements with your workout habits. Both options need more care than a basic magnetic model because their water tanks are part of the resistance system.
What should you compare before choosing a Black Friday 2026 rower?
Compare resistance, training interface, storage and user capacity before buying a rower for Black Friday 2026. Those four details have a greater effect on day-to-day satisfaction than a long feature list.
Air resistance, as found on the Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs, suits training guided by personal metrics. Electromagnetic and magnetic systems support quieter, screen-led or basic cardio sessions. Water resistance offers a distinctive stroke feel, but includes a tank that needs routine attention.
Measure the workout area and the storage location, then check the machine’s listed dimensions and maximum user weight. Connected rowers also deserve a careful look at membership features: a touchscreen and coached classes are valuable when you use them regularly. Select the machine that fits your habits, not simply the largest screen or highest number of settings.
Buying Guide
Choose a resistance style
Air resistance suits performance-focused workouts, water resistance delivers a smooth pull, and magnetic or electromagnetic systems offer quieter operation. Match the feel to your training routine.
Decide whether you want a screen
A built-in touchscreen supports coached classes and interactive plans. A performance monitor is a better fit for self-directed rowing and tracking pace, time or distance.
Measure your workout and storage space
Check the rower’s length, width and storage method against your home. Models that store upright or separate into sections can help reclaim floor space between workouts.
Check fit, capacity and membership details
Confirm maximum user weight, seat and rail fit, and the features included with any required membership. Choose a machine that supports both your body and the workouts you plan to do.
Shop with a clear shortlist
Compare your preferred models by resistance, display, storage and training features. A short list based on personal priorities makes Black Friday 2026 shopping more focused.
FAQ
Is the Concept2 RowErg better than the Hydrow Wave Rower?
The Concept2 RowErg with Standard Legs is better for self-directed training and detailed performance tracking. The Hydrow Wave Rower is better for guided workouts, instructor-led classes and a built-in 16-inch touchscreen.
Does the Hydrow Wave Rower require a membership?
The Hydrow Wave Rower’s connected class experience relies on a membership. Shoppers should review current membership terms and included features before choosing the rower, especially if they plan to use instructor-led sessions regularly.
Which rower is quietest for an apartment?
The Hydrow Wave Rower and NordicTrack RW900 Rower use electromagnetic or magnetic resistance, making them strong choices for shoppers prioritizing quieter indoor workouts. Check the full machine placement and sound profile in owner feedback for your specific living space.
Which rowing machine has the largest screen?
The NordicTrack RW900 Rower has a 24-inch touchscreen among the picks in this guide. The Hydrow Origin Rower has a 22-inch touchscreen, while the Hydrow Wave Rower has a 16-inch touchscreen.
Are water rowers good for home use?
Yes. The WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine with S4 Performance Monitor and Ergatta Lite Rower offer water resistance for home training. Consider their tank care, machine footprint and display features when deciding whether either model suits your room and routine.
What is a good budget rower for beginners?
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is a straightforward beginner option with 8 magnetic resistance levels and a basic digital monitor. It suits shoppers who want simple cardio rather than built-in classes or a large touchscreen.