WaterRowing Machine Walnut Rowing Machine S4 Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
The WaterRower Walnut S4 Handcrafted Rower delivers authentic water resistance and premium aesthetics. If you are searching for waterrower walnut rowing machine s4 alternatives, this guide compares 6 similar picks. The original model features a handcrafted walnut design and a built-in S4 BLE monitor. It provides a smooth, natural rowing feel that closely mimics on-water dynamics. Its substantial weight adds stability during intense workouts. However, the large footprint may not fit every home. Some buyers prefer folding designs for easier storage. Others seek higher weight capacities or different display types. You might also want a more budget-friendly option. The alternatives listed here share key specifications with the original. They all use water resistance for consistent, joint-friendly exercise. Each model offers unique dimensions or features to suit different needs. You can compare their sizes, capacities, and connectivity options. This helps you find the best fit for your space and goals. The list includes options from various brands. All selected machines overlap in core functionality with the reference model. You can choose based on your specific requirements. Focus on the specs that matter most to you. This ensures you select a rower that aligns with your fitness routine.
How alternatives compare to the original
WaterRower Ash Rowing Machine
The WaterRower Ash Rowing Machine shares the same handcrafted heritage and water resistance as the Walnut S4. It uses ash wood instead of walnut, offering a different aesthetic while maintaining the premium, USA-made build quality. The dimensions are nearly identical, with a length of 84 inches and a height of 22 inches. It weighs slightly more at 63.9 pounds, providing similar stability. This model lacks the S4 BLE monitor, so you track workouts manually. It is ideal for buyers who want the traditional WaterRower feel without the digital display or walnut finish.
YOSUDA RM-207 Water Rower
The YOSUDA RM-207 Water Rower differs significantly in form factor. It is a folding model, making it suitable for compact home gyms where the original’s 82-inch length is a constraint. It offers a 400 lb weight capacity, far exceeding the original’s 103.5 lb limit. The tank is aluminum, providing a different resistance feel than the original’s wooden flywheel. It weighs 59 pounds and measures 71.7 inches in length. You give up the handcrafted walnut aesthetic and the S4 monitor. This pick suits users who prioritize storage efficiency and high weight support over traditional aesthetics.
YOSUDA Water Rower 450 lb Capacity
The YOSUDA Water Rower 450 lb Capacity is another folding option that trades the original’s stationary design for space-saving convenience. It features a 400 lb weight capacity and a PRO-Enhanced Tank. The dimensions are much smaller, measuring 43 inches in length and 17.5 inches in height. It weighs 57.5 pounds. Unlike the original, it does not have a built-in screen, relying instead on Bluetooth connectivity for app-based tracking. The wood finish offers a similar look to the original but with a modern, foldable structure. It is best for users who need easy storage and app integration.
Dripex Water Rower 400lb Oak
The Dripex Water Rower 400lb Oak includes an LCD monitor, which the original S4 does not have in this configuration. It is a folding unit with a 400 lb weight capacity, suitable for taller users needing high support. The rail is 125 cm long, offering a different rowing experience. It weighs 55.6 pounds and measures 72.8 inches in length. The brown oak finish provides a natural look, though it is not handcrafted walnut. You gain app connectivity and a digital display but lose the specific S4 BLE monitor and the traditional WaterRower water flywheel mechanics. It fits smaller spaces well.
JOROTO MR280PRO Water Rower
The JOROTO MR280PRO Water Rower is a foldable model designed for space-saving storage. It supports a 400 lb weight capacity, significantly higher than the original. The dimensions are compact, measuring 70.9 inches in length and 21.7 inches in height. It weighs 52 pounds. This model lacks a built-in display, relying on app-based tracking via Bluetooth. The brown finish mimics wood but is not handcrafted. It is ideal for users who prioritize vertical folding and app connectivity over the original’s premium walnut aesthetic and integrated S4 monitor. It suits home gyms where storage is a primary concern.
KINGSMITH WR20 Tri-Fold Water Rower
The KINGSMITH WR20 Tri-Fold Water Rower offers a tri-fold design for maximum space efficiency. It weighs 88.2 pounds and measures 28.9 inches in length when folded. The walnut finish provides a similar aesthetic to the original, but the structure is entirely different. It lacks a built-in monitor, requiring app connectivity for tracking. The weight capacity is not specified in the data, but the design suggests a focus on portability. It is best for buyers who want zero assembly and a compact footprint. You give up the original’s stationary stability and S4 monitor for a highly portable, tri-fold alternative.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
WaterRower Walnut S4 Handcrafted Rower
Best for: Handcrafted walnut water rowing
- Resistance Type
- water
- Weight Capacity
- 103.5 lbs (with water)
- Display Type
- S4 BLE Monitor
- Connectivity
- BLE
- Intended Use
- Home Use
- Dimensions
- 21 × 84 × 22 inches
View on Amazon: WaterRower Walnut S4 Handcrafted Rower Affiliate link
This is a handcrafted WaterRower made in the USA from sustainably sourced Appalachian walnut. It uses a water-filled flywheel for smooth, natural resistance that increases with your effort. The included S4 BLE monitor tracks your workout data. It measures 82 inches long and weighs 103.5 pounds with water. This unit suits those who want a durable, low-impact full-body workout machine that stores vertically.
Pros
- Handcrafted from sustainably sourced Appalachian walnut
- Made in the USA in Rhode Island
- Water-filled flywheel for smooth, natural resistance
- Includes S4 BLE monitor for data tracking
- Stores easily on end to save space
Cons
- Heavy at 103.5 pounds with water
- Long footprint of 82 inches
- No remote control included
Good fit if
- You want a durable, handcrafted wooden rower
- You prefer natural water resistance over air or magnetic
- You have space for an 82-inch long machine
Skip if
- You need a foldable machine for small spaces
- You want a lightweight unit for easy moving
- You prefer magnetic or air resistance systems
Verdict: WaterRower Walnut S4 Rowing Machine is a premium, USA-made option for users who value handcrafted walnut aesthetics and natural water resistance. It fits buyers who have the floor space for its 82-inch length and want a heavy, stable machine.
WaterRower Ash Rowing Machine
Best for: Buyers seeking authentic water resistance and handcrafted durability
- Resistance Type
- water
- Weight Capacity
- 103.5 lbs (with water)
- Display Type
- S4 Monitor
- Intended Use
- Home Use
- Dimensions
- 21 × 84 × 22 inches
- Weight
- 63.9 pounds
View on Amazon: WaterRower Ash Rowing Machine Affiliate link
This WaterRower is a handcrafted ash wood rower made in the USA. It uses a water-filled flywheel for smooth, natural resistance that increases with your effort. The S4 monitor tracks your workout metrics. It measures 84 inches long and weighs 63.9 pounds without water. You get a full-body, low-impact exercise that targets 84 percent of your muscle mass. It stores easily on end.
Pros
- Handcrafted from sustainably sourced Appalachian ash wood
- Water flywheel provides natural, self-regulating resistance
- Includes S4 performance monitor for tracking metrics
- USA-made build quality with ethically sourced materials
Cons
- 84-inch length requires significant floor space
- No Bluetooth connectivity mentioned for data sync
- Foldable storage not listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You want authentic water rowing resistance
- You value handcrafted wooden furniture aesthetics
- You need a durable USA-made machine
Skip if
- You have limited floor space for an 84-inch unit
- You require digital app integration or Bluetooth
- You need a foldable design for easy storage
Verdict: WaterRower Ash Rowing Machine offers authentic water resistance and handcrafted durability for buyers prioritizing build quality over digital features. It suits those with ample space who value traditional rowing mechanics.
YOSUDA RM-207 Water Rower
Best for: compact home gyms and high capacity needs
- Resistance Type
- Water
- Weight Capacity
- 400 lb
- Display Type
- Rowing-dedicated monitor
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth APP
- Intended Use
- Home Use
- Form Factor
- Folding Elliptical
View on Amazon: YOSUDA RM-207 Water Rower Affiliate link
The YOSUDA RM-207 is a foldable water rowing machine with a 400 lb weight capacity. It uses an aluminum tank with 16L of water for resistance. The unit includes a dedicated monitor and Bluetooth app connectivity. Weighing 59 pounds, it features wheels for easy movement. This model suits home users seeking a compact, high-capacity rower that stores vertically.
Pros
- 400 lb weight capacity
- Foldable design for storage
- Bluetooth app connectivity
- Aluminum tank with 16L water
Cons
- Black color option only
- No remote control included
- Monitor is dedicated, not smart
Good fit if
- You need a high weight capacity
- You want to fold the rower for storage
- You prefer Bluetooth app tracking
Skip if
- You require a walnut wood finish
- You need a USA-made product
- You prefer a wooden tank
Verdict: YOSUDA Foldable Water Rower 400 lb fits users who prioritize storage efficiency and high weight limits over premium aesthetics. It is a practical option for smaller spaces.
YOSUDA Water Rower 450 lb Capacity
Best for: High capacity foldable storage
- Resistance Type
- Water
- Weight Capacity
- 450 lb
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Foldable
- Yes (180° foldable)
- Intended Use
- Home Use
- Form Factor
- Folding Elliptical
View on Amazon: YOSUDA Water Rower 450 lb Capacity Affiliate link
The YOSUDA WM-SE02 is a foldable water rower built with FSC-certified solid beech wood. It supports users up to 450 lbs and 6'7". The machine features a PRO-Enhanced water tank and 180-degree folding design for compact storage. Bluetooth connectivity sends workout data to your phone. It requires only 10 minutes to assemble.
Pros
- 450 lb weight capacity
- 180-degree foldable storage
- Bluetooth app integration
- FSC-certified solid beech wood
Cons
- No built-in display screen
- No remote control included
- No heart rate monitoring
Good fit if
- You need a rower that folds flat
- You want Bluetooth data tracking
- You weigh up to 450 lbs
Skip if
- You prefer a traditional upright design
- You want a built-in display
- You need a remote control
Verdict: YOSUDA Foldable Water Rower 450 lb fits users who need high weight capacity and easy storage. It suits those who want to track workouts via Bluetooth without a built-in screen.
Dripex Water Rower 400lb Oak
Best for: taller users needing high weight support
- Resistance Type
- water
- Resistance Levels
- 6
- Weight Capacity
- 400 lb
- Display Type
- LCD
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Rail Length
- 125 cm
View on Amazon: Dripex Water Rower 400lb Oak Affiliate link
This Dripex water rower uses FSC-certified oak and a 14L tank for natural resistance. It supports up to 400 lb and users up to 6'5" tall. The dual rails measure 125 cm, offering a standard stroke length. You get an LCD monitor and Bluetooth connectivity for app tracking. It folds vertically for storage and includes transport wheels. This model suits home users seeking a sturdy, space-efficient water rower with digital tracking.
Pros
- 400 lb weight capacity
- 125 cm dual rails
- FSC-certified solid oak
- Bluetooth app connectivity
- Vertical fold design
Cons
- 125 cm rails are shorter than premium models
- No included heart rate monitor
- LCD lacks real-time sync without app
Good fit if
- You need a 400 lb weight capacity
- You want Bluetooth app integration
- You have limited floor space for storage
Skip if
- You require a heart rate monitor
- You prefer a longer 140 cm rail
- You want a non-folding frame
Verdict: Dripex Water Rower with LCD fits taller users who need high weight support and app connectivity. Its 125 cm rail and folding design make it a practical choice for smaller home gyms.
JOROTO MR280PRO Water Rower
Best for: Space-saving home rowing with app tracking
- Resistance Type
- water
- Weight Capacity
- 400 lb
- Display Type
- Bluetooth-enabled monitor
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Intended Use
- Home Use
- Form Factor
- Folding Elliptical
View on Amazon: JOROTO MR280PRO Water Rower Affiliate link
This JOROTO rower uses water resistance for a smooth, realistic stroke. It features a 400 lb weight capacity and a 180-degree foldable design to save space. The Bluetooth monitor connects to an app for guided workouts. Its solid oak frame supports users up to 39 inches in leg length. It is a practical choice for home gyms where storage efficiency matters.
Pros
- 400 lb weight capacity
- 180-degree vertical folding design
- Bluetooth-enabled monitor with app connectivity
- Solid oak frame construction
Cons
- No remote control included
- No heart-rate sensors mentioned
- App access requires Bluetooth connection
Good fit if
- You need a rower that folds vertically for storage
- You prefer water resistance for a natural feel
- You want app-guided workouts via Bluetooth
Skip if
- You require a traditional S4 monitor without app dependency
- You need built-in heart-rate monitoring
- You prefer a non-folding, permanent setup
Verdict: JOROTO MR280PRO Foldable Water Rower fits users who prioritize space-saving storage and app-based tracking over traditional standalone monitors. It suits home gyms where vertical folding is a necessity.
KINGSMITH WR20 Tri-Fold Water Rower
Best for: Small spaces and tall users
- Resistance Type
- water
- Resistance Levels
- 6
- Weight Capacity
- 331 lbs
- Connectivity
- Kinomap, KS Fit App
- Foldable
- Yes, tri-fold
- Intended Use
- Home Use
View on Amazon: KINGSMITH WR20 Tri-Fold Water Rower Affiliate link
The Kingsmith WR20 is a tri-fold water rower designed for home use. It features an extended rail for users up to 7'4" tall and supports 331 lbs. The water tank offers six resistance levels, creating up to 176 lbs of smooth resistance. A built-in display tracks metrics, while app connectivity allows for sync with Kinomap and KS Fit. This model folds to just 3.23 ft² for easy storage.
Pros
- Tri-fold design reduces footprint to 3.23 ft²
- Extended rail accommodates users up to 7'4"
- Six-level adjustable water resistance up to 176 lbs
- Built-in display with app connectivity for Kinomap and KS Fit
- Zero assembly required out of the box
Cons
- Lower 331 lbs weight capacity compared to 400 lbs competitors
- No remote control included for resistance adjustment
- No Bluetooth monitor; relies on app syncing
Good fit if
- You need a rower that folds to fit tight spaces
- You are taller than 6'4" and need an extended rail
- You want zero assembly and ready-to-use convenience
Skip if
- You require a higher 400 lbs weight capacity
- You prefer a traditional upright storage method
- You need a dedicated Bluetooth monitor display
Verdict: KINGSMITH WR20 Tri-Fold Water Rower fits buyers who prioritize space-saving storage and zero assembly over maximum weight capacity. It suits taller users needing an extended rail who are comfortable using apps for tracking.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WaterRower Walnut S4 Handcrafted Rower | WaterRower Ash Rowing Machine | YOSUDA RM-207 Water Rower | YOSUDA Water Rower 450 lb Capacity | Dripex Water Rower 400lb Oak | JOROTO MR280PRO Water Rower | KINGSMITH WR20 Tri-Fold Water Rower |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resistance Type | water | water | Water | Water | water | water | water |
| Resistance Levels | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 6 | not specified | 6 |
| Weight Capacity | 103.5 lbs (with water) | 103.5 lbs (with water) | 400 lb | 450 lb | 400 lb | 400 lb | 331 lbs |
| Display Type | S4 BLE Monitor | S4 Monitor | Rowing-dedicated monitor | not specified | LCD | Bluetooth-enabled monitor | not specified |
| Connectivity | BLE | not specified | Bluetooth APP | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Bluetooth | Kinomap, KS Fit App |
| Foldable | not specified | not specified | not specified | Yes (180° foldable) | not specified | not specified | Yes, tri-fold |
| Rail Length | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 125 cm | not specified | not specified |
| Form Factor | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | dual-rail | not specified | not specified |
| Intended Use | Home Use | Home Use | Home Use | Home Use | Home Use | Home Use | Home Use |
| Color | Walnut | Lo-Rise | Black | Wood | Brown | Brown | WR20_Walnut |
| Dimensions | 21 × 84 × 22 inches | 21 × 84 × 22 inches | 71.7 × 13 × 24.8 inches | 43 × 20 × 17.5 inches | 72.8 × 17.7 × 17.7 inches | 70.9 × 17.5 × 21.7 inches | 28.9 × 18.9 × 22.8 inches |
| Weight | 61.7 pounds | 63.9 pounds | 59 pounds | 57.5 pounds | 55.6 pounds | 52 pounds | 88.2 pounds |
| Model | Walnut S4 | 100 | RM-207 | WM-SE02 | not specified | MR280PRO | Water Rower WR20 |
| Size | not specified | not specified | Aluminum-16L Tank | PRO-Enhanced Tank | not specified | not specified | 29 * 18.9 * 22.8in / 735 * 480 * 580mm |
Frequently asked questions
Are there folding water rowers that match the S4’s performance?
Yes, several folding models offer comparable water resistance. The YOSUDA RM-207 features a 16L aluminum tank and folds for storage. The Dripex 400lb Oak also folds and includes an LCD monitor. These options provide similar resistance mechanics while saving floor space compared to the non-folding S4.
Which alternative is best for heavy users?
The YOSUDA RM-207 and Dripex Water Rower both support up to 400 pounds. The YOSUDA WM-SE02 is listed with a 450 lb capacity in its badge, though attributes note 400 lb. These high-capacity models suit heavier users who need durable frames and stable water resistance during intense rowing sessions.
Do these alternatives include digital monitors?
The Dripex Water Rower includes a built-in LCD monitor. The WaterRower Walnut S4 uses an S4 BLE monitor, which connects to apps. Other models like the YOSUDA RM-207 and JOROTO MR280PRO rely on app connectivity via Bluetooth rather than standalone screens, requiring you to use a mobile device for tracking.
How do the dimensions compare to the original S4?
The S4 measures 84 inches long when set up. Most folding alternatives are shorter. The YOSUDA WM-SE02 is only 43 inches long when folded. The Dripex model is 72.8 inches long. The JOROTO MR280PRO is 70.9 inches long. These compact footprints make them easier to store in smaller homes.
What materials are used in the frames?
The original S4 and WaterRower Ash use solid wood. The YOSUDA RM-207 features an aluminum tank. The Dripex model uses oak wood. The JOROTO MR280PRO has a brown finish. The KINGSMITH WR20 is available in walnut. These materials affect the aesthetic and the specific sound of the water resistance.
Are these machines suitable for tall users?
The Dripex Water Rower has a 125 cm rail, which benefits taller rowers. The S4’s 82-inch length also accommodates taller users well. The KINGSMITH WR20 is noted for tall users needing an extended rail. Most folding models are compact, so checking the rail length against your height is recommended for comfort.