Best Rowing Machines for Starting a Home Gym During Relocation in 2026
If you’re relocating in 2026 and want to build a home gym from scratch, a rowing machine is a smart first step. This guide compares dual-resistance, smart, and portable rowers—including the Fed Fitness Yosuda RM6 and ten competing models—so you can choose the best mix of portability, performance, app features, noise, and value for your moving-focused gym build.
Introduction
If you’re relocating in 2026 and planning to build a home gym from scratch, a rowing machine is one of the smartest first purchases you can make. Rowers deliver full‑body, low‑impact cardio in a relatively compact footprint, and many current models fold or stand up to move easily from one home to the next.
The challenge: balancing performance, space constraints, noise, smart features, and price while your life (and address) is in flux. You need a machine that’s sturdy enough to feel “gym quality,” but portable and user‑friendly enough to live through moves, temporary spaces, and changing routines.
Below, we compare the FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro against 10 well‑known competitors to help you choose the best rowing machine for starting a home gym during relocation in 2026.
How We Compared
To rank these rowers for a moving‑friendly home gym, we focused on:
- Space & Portability: Footprint, folding/detachable designs, and ease of rolling or storing in small or temporary spaces.
- Versatility for Mixed Fitness Levels: Resistance range, dual air+magnetic vs. single mode, and weight capacity for households with multiple users.
- Training Experience: Smoothness of stroke, realism of resistance, ergonomics, and smart features (apps, auto‑adjustment, scenic or trainer‑led workouts).
- Noise & Power: How apartment‑friendly they are and whether they require power outlets.
- Price & Long‑Term Value: Up‑front price, ecosystem or subscription expectations, and warranty support—key when you’re investing while also paying moving costs.
- Relocation Practicality: Ease of assembly/disassembly, transport wheels, and designs that cope well with being moved.
Using only the details provided, we ranked every product for this specific use case.
Everything we recommend
FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro
The best overall rowing machine for relocation: dual air+magnetic resistance, smart features, app flexibility, and a portable design suited for movers.
Concept2 RowErg Rower with PM5
The standard for durability and performance—an air rower built for frequent moving and long-term value, though without magnetic resistance or streaming content.
NordicTrack RW900 Rower
A feature-rich, screen-centric rower with iFIT integration for highly guided, trainer-led workouts—great for those wanting media motivation in a new space.
Hydrow Origin Rowing Machine
A premium, content-driven, electromagnetic rower focused on scenic workouts and immersive training—ideal for ex-boutique gym users.
Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine
A compact, relocation-friendly take on Hydrow’s immersive ecosystem, blending premium content with a smaller footprint for apartments or small gyms.
Sunny Health & Fitness Premium Smart Magnetic Air Rower
A hybrid-resistance, app-compatible rower delivering strong value for movers wanting versatility without big-screen pricing.
MERACH Q1S Rowing Machine
A quiet, magnetic-resistance, budget-friendly rower with app tracking—excellent for shared and transitional spaces.
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
A straightforward, affordable magnetic rower for basic cardio needs—portable, simple, and light on the budget.
JOROTO MR60 Rowing Machine
A smooth, versatile, app-compatible mid-tier magnetic rower suitable for general home gyms, though not a standout in any one area.
Yesoul R1M Plus 21.5" HD Screen Rowing Machine
An interactive, screen-forward rower for those who value built-in guided programming, but its large size complicates moves.
Merach Pro Air Resistance Rowing Machine
A very relocation-friendly, foldable air-resistance rower with app tracking; great for small spaces, but noisier than magnetic models.
FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro
Summary: The FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Pro stands out for movers, combining dual air+magnetic resistance, smart auto-adjustment, open app compatibility, and a sturdy-yet-portable design at a mid-premium price. Exceptional for a home gym you’ll move with, delivering the best balance of performance, features, and practical relocation support on the market.
Feature Highlights:
- Dual resistance: air + magnetic (8 levels, up to ~182.6 lbs); handlebar controls and app-driven auto adjustments
- Premium build: aluminum frame, steel monorail, nickel-plated steel chain
- ERG setup: 34.3° angle, contoured seat, adjustable foot pedals, device holder
- Smart Bluetooth: FED app, iConsole+, Kinomap support
- Detachable rail, front wheels; space-saving storage (~47.2 × 27.6 × 54 in.)
- 330 lb capacity, strong warranty (3–5 years), and lifetime technical support
Pros:
- Best balance of on-water feel and adjustable resistance for all fitness levels
- Exceptionally relocation-friendly (detachable rail, wheels, compact footprint)
- Open app compatibility; not tied to a locked ecosystem
- Robust warranty and support for moving and heavy use
Cons:
- Requires power and batteries for advanced features
- No built-in HD screen (BYO device/tablet)
- Hefty at 98 lbs—mobile but not ultra-light
Recommended configuration
| Processor: | n/a | Screen: | Device holder (BYO phone/tablet) |
| Memory: | n/a | Weight: | 98 lbs |
Concept2 RowErg Rower with PM5
Summary: The Concept2 RowErg is the air rower gold standard—durable, reliable, and easy to reassemble after moves. For serious, metrics-driven users building a new home gym that might need to adapt locations, it excels—but it’s louder, less compact, and lacks magnetic resistance or connected streaming features.
Feature Highlights:
- Air resistance for classic rowing feel; PM5 monitor for detailed tracking
- Simplicity makes it easier to move/reconstruct
- Recognized gym/training standard worldwide
- Sturdy, robust build for long-term value
Pros:
- Unbeatable long-term durability and reputation
- PM5 gives deep, advanced workout analytics
- Effort-based air resistance—no need for app pairing
Cons:
- Noisier than magnetic/hybrid models
- No streaming/app integration out of the box
- Larger storage footprint than compact/folding machines
NordicTrack RW900 Rower
Summary: With a huge touchscreen and iFIT integration, the NordicTrack RW900 offers a highly interactive, immersive rowing experience—great for motivation as you adjust to new environments. It shines for media and coaching, but its bulk and subscription dependence make it less ideal for those seeking simplicity or frequent moves.
Feature Highlights:
- 24" HD touchscreen with iFIT for trainer-led workouts
- Up to 26 levels of digital magnetic resistance
- Full-body cardio, virtual routing/guided classes
- Large, smart rower designed to anchor a home gym
Pros:
- Immersive, guided, screen-driven fitness experience
- Easy resistance adjustment suits all users
- Excellent for people motivated by online classes
Cons:
- Monthly iFIT subscription virtually required
- Heavy, powered, less convenient to move
- Overkill for simple or no-frills gym setups
Hydrow Origin Rowing Machine
Summary: The Hydrow Origin delivers a silky-smooth electromagnetic rowing feel and an unparalleled library of guided, scenic, and coached content. It’s ideal if you crave boutique streaming at home, though its heavy, content-locked design isn’t for everyone—especially on the move.
Feature Highlights:
- Electromagnetic resistance for realistic rowing
- Large integrated screen for scenic/coached workouts
- Bluetooth accessory support
- Home-gym centerpiece with a polished ecosystem
Pros:
- Best-in-category rowing feel and content
- Motivates those missing in-person classes
- Exceptional as a living room or studio mainstay
Cons:
- Expensive (device + subscription)
- Bigger/heavier to move around than screenless models
- Value is ecosystem-dependent
Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine
Summary: A more compact, lighter Hydrow with a 16" screen and scenic content: perfect for smaller or temporary living spaces that still crave premium guided workouts. All of Hydrow’s engaging experience, now storage-friendlier and easier to relocate than the Origin.
Feature Highlights:
- 16" screen; water-like drag for realistic feel
- Premium Hydrow content and coaching
- Compact, lighter frame
- Still delivers immersive at-home fitness
Pros:
- Easier to fit and move in apartments or shared homes
- Premium content and rowing feel preserved
- Good middle ground between space and platform
Cons:
- Still premium pricing, requires subscription
- Must be handled carefully in moves
- Fixed screen means device options are limited
Sunny Health & Fitness Premium Smart Magnetic Air Rower
Summary: This Smart Magnetic Air Rower offers hybrid resistance and app-tracking at a mid-range price, making it great for movers wanting the mixed benefits of air and magnetic in a single device, without paying premium platform prices.
Feature Highlights:
- Hybrid magnetic/air resistance system
- Smart connectivity—basic app workout tracking
- Adjustable intensity and user-centric upgrades
Pros:
- Balanced resistance; good for variety
- App features support consistency
- Solid value below the top-tier price points
Cons:
- Less robust support/warranty details available vs. major brands
- App features less mature than Hydrow/FED
- Build/finish can be less premium
MERACH Q1S Rowing Machine
Summary: For pure affordability, the MERACH Q1S is a quiet, magnetic rower with app support—great for transitional, budget-conscious home gyms in small or shared spaces, though it lacks more advanced resistance and build features.
Feature Highlights:
- 16 levels of magnetic resistance, ultra-quiet
- Bluetooth enabled tracking in app
- Compact, easy to use and maintain at home
Pros:
- Extremely quiet—ideal for apartments/shared walls
- Affordable with basic app support
- Easy to move and store
Cons:
- No air resistance, so less dynamic feel
- Warranty/build quality less documented
- Limited challenge for advanced rowers
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
Summary: A wallet-friendly, simple magnetic rower for anyone prioritizing lightweight, portable, affordable cardio—perfect for transitional setups, though without smart features or hybrid resistance.
Feature Highlights:
- 8 levels of adjustable magnetic resistance
- Large LCD console for feedback
- Padded seat and transport wheels for easy moving
Pros:
- Very budget-friendly and easy to move
- Simple, maintenance-light design
- Great as a basic cardio standby for movers
Cons:
- Limited resistance for stronger users
- No app-based features or rich display
- Less incentive for long-term engagement
JOROTO MR60 Rowing Machine
Summary: The MR60 fills an in-between spot in the market, offering smooth magnetic resistance and app tracking. For relocation, it offers mid-tier value and versatility, but does not specialize in any area (noise, portability, content) the way higher-ranked models do.
Feature Highlights:
- Magnetic resistance system for smooth rowing
- App compatibility for tracking/training
- Generally compact and home-gym friendly
Pros:
- Apt price-to-performance ratio
- Quiet and suitable for close-quarters
- App support for consistency across moves
Cons:
- No standout feature (hybrid, premium screen, etc.)
- Limited specs/warranty info available
- Brand less proven for heavy training
Yesoul R1M Plus 21.5" HD Screen Rowing Machine
Summary: The Yesoul R1M Plus is all-in on integrated screens and guided, interactive programming—ideal for new rowers who’ll be motivated by content during moves. The major caveat: Big HD display complicates moving and needs more care during relocation.
Feature Highlights:
- Large 21.5" HD touchscreen for workouts
- Interactive, structured training programs
- Focus on digital engagement and guidance
Pros:
- Screen-enhanced experience encourages consistency
- Interactive programs suitable for routine disruption
- Lower cost than many big-brand screen rowers
Cons:
- More to protect/care for when moving
- Heavier, less flexible than device-holder models
- Warranty and platform details less clear
Merach Pro Air Resistance Rowing Machine
Summary: If you absolutely need a foldable, compact rower for an in-between home or tiny space, the Merach Pro Air is easy to store/move. Still, it’s noisier, all-air resistance, and lacks the advanced features or build of hybrid and premium options.
Feature Highlights:
- Air resistance with 10 levels—dynamic feel, compact folding
- App-enabled progress tracking
- Designed for easy stowage and moving
Pros:
- Ultra-compact, foldable design is relocation-ready
- Air system offers dynamic challenge
- App support for training continuity
Cons:
- Noisier than magnetic or hybrid units
- Less refined control/configuration
- Durability, long-term support not well documented
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Features | Price Range | Ideal For | Notable Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro | Dual air + magnetic resistance, 8 levels, Bluetooth apps, detachable rail, 330 lb capacity | Mid‑premium (listed at $799.99, often on sale) | Movers building a flexible, long‑term home gym with mixed fitness levels | Best all‑around balance of performance, smart features, and relocation‑friendly design |
| Concept2 RowErg Rower with PM5 | Air resistance, PM5 performance monitor, robust build | Mid‑to‑premium | Serious rowers and data‑driven users | Gold‑standard reliability and metrics |
| NordicTrack RW900 Rower | 24" HD touchscreen, 26 digital resistance levels, iFIT integration | Premium | Users wanting Peloton‑style, trainer‑led workouts | Highly immersive, guided training experience |
| Hydrow Origin Rowing Machine | Electromagnetic resistance, scenic content, Bluetooth, connected ecosystem | Premium | Users replacing boutique studio or gym memberships | Ultra‑smooth feel with top‑tier content library |
| Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine | Compact design, 16" screen, water‑like drag, connected workouts | Upper mid‑premium | Apartment dwellers wanting Hydrow content in smaller spaces | Space‑saving connected rower with premium content |
| Sunny Health & Fitness Premium Smart Magnetic Air Rower | Hybrid magnetic/air resistance, smart connectivity | Mid‑range | Users wanting hybrid resistance on a budget | Hybrid resistance plus smart tracking at accessible pricing |
| MERACH Q1S Rowing Machine | 16‑level quiet magnetic resistance, Bluetooth app tracking | Budget–mid | Quiet home cardio and intervals in shared spaces | Very quiet operation with app support |
| Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine | 8‑level magnetic resistance, LCD console, transport wheels | Budget | Cost‑conscious movers needing a basic workhorse | Reliable, affordable entry‑level rower |
| JOROTO MR60 Rowing Machine | Magnetic resistance, app compatibility, smooth motion | Mid‑range | General home‑gym users wanting a mid‑tier magnetic rower | Versatile, smooth mid‑tier option |
| Yesoul R1M Plus 21.5'' HD Screen Rowing Machine | 21.5" HD screen, interactive training programs | Mid‑to‑premium | Screen‑focused beginners and content lovers | Large integrated screen for guided, engaging workouts |
| Merach Pro Air Resistance Rowing Machine | Foldable air‑resistance frame, 10 levels, app tracking | Budget–mid | Small spaces and frequent movers | Very compact, foldable design with dynamic air feel |
Buying Tips
- Prioritize portability and storage: If you’ll be in temporary housing or smaller apartments, look for detachable rails (like the Yosuda RM6) or foldable frames (such as the Merach Pro). Transport wheels are a must.
- Match resistance to your environment:
- Air or hybrid (air + magnetic) for a more “on‑water” feel and dynamic workouts.
- Mostly magnetic if you need quieter sessions for roommates or neighbors.
- Consider ecosystem lock‑in: Hydrow and NordicTrack deliver superb content but expect ongoing subscriptions. If you prefer flexibility, a rower with open app compatibility and a simple device holder, like the FED Fitness Yosuda RM6, can be a better long‑term fit.
- Think beyond the move: A relocation is temporary, but a good rower can last years. Check weight capacity, frame materials, and warranty terms; more robust options will better survive moves and daily use.
- Decide how much screen you really need: Built‑in HD screens are great, but they add cost, weight, and complexity. If you’re content with your own tablet/phone, a high‑quality but screen‑less machine can deliver better rowing performance for the money.
- Noise tolerance matters: If you’re heading into a condo or upstairs apartment, quieter magnetic or hybrid designs may be a better bet than pure air models, especially if you row early or late.
Conclusion
For starting a home gym during relocation in 2026, the FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro offers the strongest mix of hybrid resistance, smart features, practical storage, and warranty support. It’s especially compelling if you want serious training capability without tying your entire experience to a single subscription ecosystem.
If you favor established “gym standard” hardware, the Concept2 RowErg is a rock‑solid alternative. For those who want an all‑in media experience, NordicTrack and Hydrow are excellent—but pricier—anchors for a new home gym. Budget‑minded movers can still build an effective setup with Sunny Health & Fitness or MERACH machines.
Before you buy, consider your space, noise limits, and how much coaching or content you truly need—then check current prices and choose the rower that can move with you and grow with your fitness.