NordicTrack RW700 Rowing Machine Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How these rowers differ from the RW700

WaterRower Shadow S4 BLE Black

The WaterRower Shadow S4 BLE uses water resistance instead of magnetic resistance. It is slightly longer at 87.8 inches compared to the RW700’s 81.3 inches. This model offers a handcrafted feel with a traditional water tank sound. It lacks the large 10-inch HD touchscreen and automatic resistance adjustments found on the NordicTrack. You get a durable, premium build but no smart coaching features. Choose this if you prefer the natural feel of water resistance over digital tracking. It suits buyers who want a quiet, sturdy machine without a required subscription. The S4 monitor provides basic data but does not stream content.

Concept2 RowErg Model D Air Rower

The Concept2 RowErg Model D uses air resistance, which changes intensity based on your stroke power. It is much lighter at 68 pounds and splits into two pieces for storage. This contrasts with the RW700’s heavy, one-piece 108-pound frame. The Concept2 has no built-in screen or magnetic resistance system. It focuses on accurate data tracking and high weight capacity. You lose the tilting touchscreen and automatic resistance adjustments. Pick this rower if you prioritize durable construction and precise performance metrics over entertainment features. It is ideal for users who want a no-frills, data-driven workout that lasts for years. The split design makes it easier to store in smaller spaces.

Sunny Asuna Ventus Air Magnetic Rower

The Sunny Health Asuna Ventus combines air and magnetic resistance, offering a dual system unlike the RW700’s magnetic-only setup. It is significantly longer at 104 inches, requiring more floor space than the 81.3-inch NordicTrack. This model provides adjustable tension for varied workout intensities. It lacks the 10-inch HD touchscreen and automatic SmartAdjust features. You get detailed performance tracking but no streaming capabilities or app integration. Choose this if you value versatile resistance options and sturdy construction over digital entertainment. It suits users who prefer mechanical adjustments over automated coaching. The longer rail accommodates taller users but demands more room. It is a solid choice for home cardio without subscription requirements.

YPOO 350 lb Magnetic Rower

The YPOO Magnetic Rower features a 350-pound weight capacity, exceeding the typical limits of many competitors. It is much more compact, measuring 65 inches in length compared to the RW700’s 81.3 inches. This folding design saves significant floor space. It uses magnetic resistance for quiet operation but lacks a built-in display or smart features. You give up the large touchscreen and automatic resistance adjustments. Pick this rower if you need a sturdy machine for heavier users in a small home. It is ideal for those who prioritize capacity and storage over digital tracking. The model focuses on basic, quiet workouts without app integration or streaming content. It is a practical choice for space-constrained environments.

Merach Q1S N Self-Powered Rower

The Merach Q1S N Self-Powered Rower uses electric resistance and is designed for cordless, app-guided workouts. It is shorter at 65 inches than the RW700’s 81.3 inches. This model lacks a built-in display, relying instead on smartphone integration. You lose the large 10-inch HD touchscreen and automatic resistance adjustments. Choose this if you value flexibility and app connectivity over a dedicated screen. It suits users who prefer a minimalist setup without a required subscription for core features. The self-powered design offers unique functionality. It is lighter at 46 pounds, making it easier to move. Pick this rower if you want a cordless option with app guidance rather than a large built-in display.

YOSUDA Magnetic-Pro 350lb Rower

The YOSUDA Magnetic-Pro Rower offers a 350-pound weight capacity and a long rail suitable for tall users. It is shorter at 64.6 inches than the RW700’s 81.3 inches. This model uses magnetic resistance for quiet operation but lacks a built-in display. You give up the 10-inch HD touchscreen and automatic resistance adjustments. Pick this if you need a stable, quiet ride with high weight capacity. It suits users who prioritize rail length and capacity over digital tracking. The model relies on smartphone integration for data. It is ideal for those who want a sturdy machine without the cost of a subscription. Choose this rower if you prefer a simple, durable design with app connectivity.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

NordicTrack RW700 Rower

Best for: Users wanting a large screen and auto resistance

Resistance Type

magnetic

Resistance Levels

26

Display Type

10 in touchscreen

Connectivity

iFIT, app syncing

Color

Black

Dimensions

81.3 × 24.8 × 45.4 inches

View on Amazon: NordicTrack RW700 Rower Affiliate link

The NordicTrack RW700 Rower is a home fitness machine featuring a 10-inch HD touchscreen and 26 levels of silent magnetic resistance. It measures 81.3 inches in length and weighs 108 pounds. The unit includes pivoting pedals for stable movement and SmartAdjust technology to change resistance automatically. You need an iFIT Pro membership to unlock the connected features and streaming content on the display.

Pros

• 10-inch HD tilting touchscreen for streaming
• 26 digital resistance levels for varied intensity
• Silent magnetic resistance system
• Pivoting pedals with adjustable straps
• SmartAdjust automatic resistance changes

Cons

• Requires iFIT Pro membership for connected features
• Large footprint at 81.3 inches long
• Heavy build at 108 pounds

Good fit if

• You want a large screen for streaming shows
• You prefer silent magnetic resistance
• You want automatic resistance adjustments

Skip if

• You need a compact machine for small spaces
• You do not want a monthly subscription
• You prefer a lighter unit for moving

Verdict: The NordicTrack RW700 Rower suits users who want a large screen and automatic resistance adjustments. It fits those who do not mind a heavy, long machine and a required subscription.

2 Best water

WaterRower Shadow S4 BLE Black

Best for: buyers seeking a durable, handcrafted water rower

Resistance Type

Water

Display Type

S4 BLE Monitor

Foldable

Upright storage

Color

Black

Dimensions

87.8 × 22.3 × 20 inches

Weight

108 pounds

View on Amazon: WaterRower Shadow S4 BLE Black Affiliate link

The WaterRower Shadow uses a WaterFlywheel for resistance that scales with your effort. It includes an S4 BLE monitor for tracking performance. The frame is handcrafted from hardwoods and made in the USA. It measures 87.8 inches long and 108 pounds. You can store it upright to save space. This machine suits those who want a natural rowing feel and durable construction.

Pros

• Water resistance increases with rowing effort
• S4 BLE monitor tracks performance
• Handcrafted hardwood frame made in USA
• Upright storage design

Cons

• Large footprint at 87.8 inches long
• Heavy build at 108 pounds
• No folding mechanism for compact storage

Good fit if

• You prefer water resistance over magnetic
• You want a durable hardwood frame
• You have space for an 88-inch machine

Skip if

• You need a compact folding design
• You want to move the machine often
• You prefer magnetic resistance systems

Verdict: WaterRower Shadow Water Rower fits buyers seeking a durable, handcrafted water rower with an S4 BLE monitor, provided you have the floor space for its 87.8-inch length.

3 Also great

Concept2 RowErg Model D Air Rower

Best for: data-driven home rowing with high weight capacity

Resistance Type

Air

Weight Capacity

500 lb

Display Type

PM5 (Performance Monitor 5)

Connectivity

Bluetooth, ANT+

Foldable

Yes (separates into two pieces)

Color

Black

View on Amazon: Concept2 RowErg Model D Air Rower Affiliate link

The Concept2 RowErg Model D uses air resistance that scales with your effort. It features the PM5 monitor with Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity for app tracking. The unit separates into two pieces for storage and supports users up to 500 pounds. This rower suits those who want durable, data-driven cardio equipment that fits into home spaces.

Pros

• Air resistance adjusts automatically to stroke intensity
• PM5 monitor includes Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity
• 500-pound user weight capacity
• Splits into two pieces for compact storage

Cons

• Requires two D cell batteries for the monitor
• Air resistance generates more noise than magnetic models
• Footrests are adjustable but not pre-set for specific shoe sizes

Good fit if

• You want accurate performance data via the PM5 monitor
• You need a high weight capacity for heavy users
• You prefer a rower that separates for easy storage

Skip if

• You need a completely silent workout experience
• You want a built-in power source for the monitor
• You prefer magnetic resistance over air resistance

Verdict: Concept2 RowErg Model D Indoor Rower is a durable choice for users prioritizing accurate data tracking and high weight capacity. It fits best in homes where storage space allows for splitting the machine.

4 Best premium

Sunny Asuna Ventus Air Magnetic Rower

Best for: adjustable air and magnetic resistance

Resistance Type

Air + magnetic

Resistance Levels

12

Weight Capacity

330 lb

Connectivity

ANT+, SunnyFit app

Foldable

Yes (upright)

Rail Length

50 in

View on Amazon: Sunny Asuna Ventus Air Magnetic Rower Affiliate link

This rower combines air resistance with 12 levels of magnetic tension for a smooth workout. The 50-inch rail accommodates most users, and the seat sits 16 inches high for easy access. You track effort on a pivoting monitor that shows wattage and splits. It supports ANT+ heart rate sensors for better intensity monitoring. The unit folds for storage and includes transport wheels.

Pros

• Dual air and magnetic resistance system
• 12 adjustable magnetic tension levels
• Pivoting digital monitor with real-time stats
• ANT+ heart rate sensor compatibility
• Folds upright with transport wheels

Cons

• No built-in heart rate sensors
• Monitor lacks Bluetooth connectivity
• Rail length is 50 inches

Good fit if

• You want adjustable resistance without a motor
• You need a rower that folds for storage
• You prefer tracking wattage and splits

Skip if

• You require built-in heart rate sensors
• You need Bluetooth app connectivity
• You prefer a water resistance feel

Verdict: Sunny Health Asuna Ventus Air Magnetic Rower offers a versatile dual resistance system for home cardio. It fits users who value adjustable tension and detailed performance tracking over wireless app integration.

5 Best budget

YPOO 350 lb Magnetic Rower

Best for: Quiet home cardio with high weight capacity

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 with a 350 lb weight capacity. It features 16 resistance levels and a 46-inch rail for users up to 6'3". The unit operates below 25dB and fits in small spaces. It includes an LCD monitor and app compatibility. This model suits home users seeking quiet, stable cardio training.

Pros

• 350 lb weight capacity
• 16 magnetic resistance levels
• 46-inch dual slide rail
• Operates under 25dB
• Vertical fold design

Cons

• LCD display lacks Bluetooth connectivity
• No heart-rate monitoring sensors
• Manual resistance adjustment only

Good fit if

• You need a quiet machine for apartments
• You weigh up to 350 lbs
• You want to store the rower vertically

Skip if

• You require heart-rate monitoring
• You want a digital display with Bluetooth
• You are taller than 6'3"

Verdict: YPOO Magnetic Rower 350 lb Capacity delivers a sturdy, quiet workout for heavier users in small homes. It fits buyers who prioritize capacity and storage over digital tracking.

6 Best electric

Merach Q1S N Self-Powered Rower

Best for: cordless app-guided home rowing

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 is a self-powered rowing machine that uses a self-charging flywheel to generate its own electricity. It features 16 levels of electromagnetic resistance controlled via a smartphone app. The unit folds upright for storage and measures 65 inches long. It suits users who want app-guided workouts without needing a power outlet nearby.

Pros

• Self-powered flywheel requires no external power cord
• 16 levels of electromagnetic resistance for precise control
• Compatible with MERACH and Kinomap apps
• Folds upright to save space

Cons

• No built-in display screen
• Requires a separate device for app connectivity
• Lacks a physical remote control

Good fit if

• You want to row anywhere without finding an outlet
• You prefer app-based training classes
• You need a foldable machine for small spaces

Skip if

• You want a built-in screen for metrics
• You prefer manual resistance adjustments
• You need a remote control for settings

Verdict: Merach Q1S Self-Powered Rower is a practical pick for users who value cordless flexibility and app integration over a built-in display.

7 Also great

YOSUDA Magnetic-Pro 350lb Rower

Best for: Tall users needing long rail and quiet operation

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

This YOSUDA rower features a 50.2-inch slide rail and 16 levels of magnetic resistance. The mono-rail frame supports users up to 350 lbs with a quiet, stable ride. Bluetooth connectivity tracks your progress on mobile devices. It offers a smooth rowing experience with a heavy-duty flywheel. The design includes a space-saving footprint for home use.

Pros

• 50.2-inch slide rail accommodates users up to 6'3"
• 16 levels of magnetic resistance for varied intensity
• 350 lbs weight capacity with mono-rail stability
• Bluetooth connectivity for real-time tracking

Cons

• No built-in display screen mentioned in specs
• Requires separate device for workout data viewing
• Manual resistance adjustment instead of digital control

Good fit if

• You are taller than 6 feet and need a long rail
• You want a quiet magnetic resistance system
• You prefer tracking workouts via a smartphone app

Skip if

• You need a built-in screen for guided workouts
• You require digital resistance adjustments via a console
• You are under 5 feet tall and need a compact rail

Verdict: YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine suits tall users seeking a stable, quiet ride with smartphone integration. It is ideal for those who prioritize rail length and weight capacity over built-in digital displays.

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