Looking Beyond the NordicTrack PRO Legacy Skier/Ski Machine? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How these rowers compare to skiing

YPOO 350 lb Magnetic Rower

The YPOO 350 lb Magnetic Rower swaps the ski machine’s oak and steel frame for a folding elliptical form factor. It measures 65 inches long and 17.7 inches wide. This model supports up to 350 pounds, which exceeds the NordicTrack’s likely limit. It uses magnetic resistance for quiet operation. You give up the zero-impact ski motion for a rowing stroke. It is a good choice for heavier users who need quiet exercise and space-saving storage. The black finish matches the NordicTrack’s color. It lacks the heavy-duty commercial feel of the Legacy Skier but offers high weight capacity in a compact footprint.

Merach Q1S N Self-Powered Rower

The Merach Q1S N Self-Powered Rower is a cord-free option that weighs 46 pounds. It measures 65 inches long and 19.3 inches wide. This electric resistance rower fits users who want app-guided workouts without messy cables. It gives up the mechanical durability of the NordicTrack’s steel construction. You get a sleeker, lighter machine that prioritizes placement flexibility. The black color keeps it visually consistent with the original. It is best for small spaces where storage and quiet operation matter more than a built-in screen. The self-powered design means you control the resistance through your own movement, unlike the passive ski motion.

YOSUDA Magnetic-Pro 350lb Rower

The YOSUDA Magnetic-Pro 350lb Rower is designed for taller users with a 64.6-inch rail. It weighs 54 pounds and measures 17.7 inches wide. This model offers quiet magnetic resistance and app connectivity for tracking workouts. It lacks the heavy oak construction of the NordicTrack PRO Legacy Skier. You trade the zero-impact ski motion for a rowing stroke that may suit taller frames better. The black finish matches the original. It is a solid choice for those who already use fitness apps for tracking. It provides a stable, quiet workout but does not offer the same durable, USA-made build quality as the Legacy Skier.

Merach RS3 Scull Magnetic Rower

The Merach RS3 Scull Magnetic Rower features unique sculling mechanics and strong magnetic resistance. It is compact, measuring 34 inches long and 16 inches wide. It weighs 58 pounds. This rower offers diverse training modes and app connectivity. It gives up the full-body ski motion for a sculling stroke that mimics rowing. It lacks a built-in display screen, relying on apps for feedback. The black color matches the NordicTrack. It is ideal for users who value unique mechanics and connectivity over a traditional ski machine. Its small footprint makes it easier to store than the larger NordicTrack unit.

Merach NovaRow R50 Pro Black Rower

The Merach NovaRow R50 Pro Black Rower uses dynamic air resistance and app connectivity. It is large, measuring 95 inches long and 24 inches wide. It weighs 72 pounds. This air rower provides measurable, app-synced workouts. It gives up the quiet operation and compact size of the NordicTrack. You need significant space for this machine. It is best for users who have room for its length and want dynamic resistance. The black finish matches the original. It offers a different training experience focused on air resistance rather than the zero-impact ski motion of the Legacy Skier.

Concept2 RowErg Air Rower

The Concept2 RowErg Air Rower is built for serious athletes who value data accuracy and durability. It measures 96 inches long and 24 inches wide. It weighs 57.3 pounds. This air resistance rower is a standard for performance tracking. It gives up the quiet operation and compact folding design of the NordicTrack. It is louder but offers unmatched data precision. The black color matches the original. It is best for those who prioritize performance tracking over quiet exercise. It lacks the zero-impact ski motion but provides a highly effective, data-driven rowing workout for serious training.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

NordicTrack PRO Legacy Skier

Best for: durable, zero-impact home skiing

Color

Black

View on Amazon: NordicTrack PRO Legacy Skier Affiliate link

The NordicTrack PRO Legacy Skier is an original USA-made ski machine built with heavy-duty components and oak and steel construction. It offers a zero-impact workout suitable for adults and seniors. The unit folds down for easy storage and moves with wheels. It includes a one-year bumper-to-bumper and five-year side-to-side drive warranty.

Pros

• USA-made with heavy-duty components
• Oak and steel construction
• Folds down for compact storage
• Includes wheels for easy movement
• Five-year side-to-side drive warranty

Cons

• No adjustable resistance levels listed
• No digital display or smart features
• Fixed black color only

Good fit if

• You want a zero-impact cardio workout
• You prefer durable oak and steel construction
• You need a machine that folds for storage

Skip if

• You require adjustable resistance settings
• You want digital tracking or app connectivity
• You prefer a lightweight portable unit

Verdict: NordicTrack PRO Legacy Skier is a sturdy, USA-made option for users seeking a durable, zero-impact ski machine. It fits those who value heavy-duty construction and compact folding over digital features.

2 Best budget

YPOO 350 lb Magnetic Rower

Best for: heavy users needing quiet operation

Resistance Type

magnetic

Resistance Levels

16

Weight Capacity

350 lbs

Display Type

LCD

Connectivity

YPOOFIT, Kinomap

Rail Length

46 in

View on Amazon: YPOO 350 lb Magnetic Rower Affiliate link

The YPOO RM930 is a foldable magnetic rower built for home use. It supports up to 350 lb with a 46-inch dual rail. You get 16 resistance levels and an LCD monitor. The design includes a 6.5% incline for varied training. It operates quietly and fits vertically to save space. This unit suits taller users and those needing high capacity.

Pros

• 350 lb weight capacity
• 16-level magnetic resistance
• 46-inch dual slide rail
• Vertical folding design
• LCD monitor with app compatibility

Cons

• No Bluetooth connectivity listed
• No heart-rate sensors listed
• Only LCD display, no touchscreen

Good fit if

• You need a rower for users over 300 lb
• You want a quiet machine for apartments
• You need a vertical storage solution

Skip if

• You require Bluetooth heart-rate monitoring
• You prefer a touchscreen display
• You need a remote control for resistance

Verdict: YPOO 350lb Magnetic Rower is a sturdy option for heavier users who value quiet operation and space-saving storage. It fits buyers who prioritize high weight limits over smart connectivity features.

3 Also great

Merach Q1S N Self-Powered Rower

Best for: cord-free, app-guided rowing workouts

Resistance Type

electromagnetic

Resistance Levels

16

Weight Capacity

350 lbs

Connectivity

MERACH app, Kinomap

Color

Black

Dimensions

65 × 19.3 × 24.8 inches

View on Amazon: Merach Q1S N Self-Powered Rower Affiliate link

The Merach Q1S N is a self-powered rowing machine with 16 levels of electromagnetic resistance. It requires no power cords, allowing placement in garages or balconies. The unit folds upright for storage and includes wheels for movement. It connects to the MERACH app for trainer-led classes and scenic modes. This model suits those seeking quiet, cord-free indoor cardio.

Pros

• Self-powered flywheel eliminates need for power cords
• 16 levels of electromagnetic resistance for precise control
• Folds upright for space-saving storage
• Compatible with MERACH app and Kinomap

Cons

• No built-in display or console included
• Requires separate tablet or phone for app use
• Tablets and phones not included in package

Good fit if

• You want a quiet, cord-free rowing machine
• You need a rower that folds for storage
• You prefer app-guided workouts over built-in screens

Skip if

• You need a built-in display console
• You prefer manual resistance adjustment knobs
• You want a machine with included hardware

Verdict: Merach Q1S N Self-Powered Rower fits users who value cord-free placement and app-based training. It is a practical option for small spaces where storage and quiet operation matter more than integrated screens.

4 Also great

YOSUDA Magnetic-Pro 350lb Rower

Best for: taller users seeking quiet, app-connected rowing

Resistance Type

Magnetic

Resistance Levels

16

Weight Capacity

350 lbs

Connectivity

Bluetooth

Rail Length

50.2"

Intended Use

Home Use

View on Amazon: YOSUDA Magnetic-Pro 350lb Rower Affiliate link

The YOSUDA Magnetic-Pro offers a 50.2-inch slide rail and 350 lb weight capacity for a smooth, full-range rowing experience. Its 16-level magnetic resistance and Bluetooth connectivity allow for adjustable intensity and app tracking. This mono-rail design ensures stability during vigorous sessions. It suits taller users seeking a quiet, space-efficient rower for home use.

Pros

• 50.2-inch slide rail accommodates users up to 6'3"
• 350 lb weight capacity with reinforced mono-rail frame
• 16-level magnetic resistance for adjustable intensity
• Bluetooth connectivity for real-time progress tracking

Cons

• No built-in display or screen for on-board metrics
• 54-pound weight may be less stable than heavier commercial units
• 1-year warranty is shorter than some competitors

Good fit if

• You are taller than 6 feet and need a longer rail
• You want a quiet rower for apartment living
• You prefer tracking workouts via a separate phone app

Skip if

• You need a built-in display for immediate feedback
• You require a warranty longer than one year
• You are under 5'4" and want a more compact footprint

Verdict: YOSUDA Magnetic-Pro Rowing Machine fits taller users who value a long rail and quiet operation. It is a solid choice for those who already use fitness apps for tracking.

5 Also great

Merach RS3 Scull Magnetic Rower

Best for: users wanting sculling mechanics and app connectivity

Resistance Type

Magnetic

Resistance Levels

16

Weight Capacity

350 lbs

Connectivity

Bluetooth, MERACH App

Form Factor

Scull-style

Intended Use

Home Use

View on Amazon: Merach RS3 Scull Magnetic Rower Affiliate link

The Merach RS3 Scull simulates real rowing with a 120-degree outward arm motion. It features 16 levels of magnetic resistance and supports up to 350 lbs. You get Bluetooth connectivity for the MERACH App, which offers over 1,000 workouts. The unit arrives 85% pre-assembled for quick setup. It suits users seeking diverse rowing modes and stable performance.

Pros

• 16 levels of magnetic resistance
• 350 lb weight capacity
• Bluetooth connectivity for app integration
• 120-degree sculls-style arm motion
• 85% pre-assembled for 20-minute setup

Cons

• Requires batteries for the monitor
• Monitor lacks built-in screen for metrics display
• No remote control included

Good fit if

• You want varied rowing stroke patterns
• You need a high weight capacity
• You prefer app-guided workouts

Skip if

• You need a built-in display screen
• You want a remote control
• You prefer hydraulic resistance systems

Verdict: Merach RS3 Scull Rowing Machine offers unique sculling mechanics and strong magnetic resistance. It fits users who value diverse training modes and app connectivity over built-in display screens.

6

Merach NovaRow R50 Pro Black Rower

Best for: app-connected air resistance training

Resistance Type

Air

Resistance Levels

10

Connectivity

MERACH app

Color

Black

Dimensions

95 × 24 × 40 inches

Weight

72 pounds

View on Amazon: Merach NovaRow R50 Pro Black Rower Affiliate link

The Merach R50 Pro uses a 32-blade fan for dynamic air resistance with 10 adjustable levels. It features a backlit monitor that tracks strokes and syncs via Bluetooth to the MERACH App. The unit measures 95 inches long and weighs 72 pounds. It folds vertically for storage. This rower suits those who want app-connected, air-resistance training.

Pros

• 32-blade fan system for dynamic air resistance
• 10 levels of adjustable resistance
• Bluetooth connectivity for MERACH App sync
• Backlit display for low-light visibility
• Vertical storage with built-in wheels

Cons

• Only 10 resistance levels
• No heart rate sensors mentioned
• 95-inch length requires significant space

Good fit if

• You prefer air resistance for natural workout feel
• You want to track data via a smartphone app
• You have space for a 95-inch machine

Skip if

• You need more than 10 resistance levels
• You require built-in heart rate monitoring
• You have limited floor space

Verdict: Merach R50 Pro Air Rower is a solid choice for users who value app connectivity and dynamic air resistance. It fits buyers who have the space for its 95-inch length and want measurable, app-synced workouts.

7 Best premium

Concept2 RowErg Air Rower

Best for: data-driven indoor rowing training

Resistance Type

Air

Weight Capacity

500 lb

Display Type

Performance Monitor 5 (PM5)

Connectivity

Bluetooth, ANT+

Foldable

Separates into two pieces

Rail Length

96 in

View on Amazon: Concept2 RowErg Air Rower Affiliate link

The Concept2 RowErg uses adjustable air resistance to match your effort. It features a 500-pound user capacity and a 96-inch rail length for a full stroke. The PM5 monitor tracks data via Bluetooth and ANT+. It separates into two pieces for storage and includes a device holder. This machine suits users seeking durable, data-driven indoor rowing.

Pros

• Adjustable air resistance scales with power output
• 500-pound user capacity supports heavier users
• PM5 monitor with Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity
• Separates into two pieces for easy storage

Cons

• Air resistance creates more noise than magnetic models
• Requires two D-cell batteries for the monitor
• Footrests are not adjustable for width, only position

Good fit if

• You want a rower that scales intensity with effort
• You need a high weight capacity for stability
• You track performance data across sessions

Skip if

• You prefer a silent workout environment
• You need a fully magnetic resistance system
• You require a compact footprint under 9 feet

Verdict: Concept2 RowErg Air Resistance Rower is built for serious athletes who value data accuracy and durability. It fits those who prioritize performance tracking over quiet operation.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions