The Best Connected Rowing Machines for Gamifying Fitness in 2026
Gamified connected rowing machines can help turn workouts into engaging, immersive experiences. Explore the best smart rowers for app integration, resistance, and value in 2026.
Introduction
Gamifying fitness in 2026 is all about turning workouts into something that feels more like a game than a chore: live leaderboards, scenic rivers on your screen, auto-adjusting resistance, and apps that track every stroke. Connected rowing machines sit at the center of this trend because they blend full‑body training with immersive software, making it easier to stay consistent, compete with friends, and see measurable progress.
If you’re looking to build a “connected gym” at home, the challenge is sorting through rowers that range from under $200 to well over $2,000—each promising smart features, Bluetooth, and app integration. Below, we compare the FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro against major connected and smart rower platforms to find the best options for gamifying fitness with connected workouts in 2026.
How We Compared
- Connected experience & apps: Depth of classes, virtual routes, games, auto‑adjust resistance, and third‑party app support.
- Resistance & “feel”: Air vs. magnetic vs. hybrid systems, adjustability, and how well they mimic on‑water rowing.
- Hardware & ergonomics: Build quality, comfort, capacity, footprint, and ease of storage.
- Price & value: Upfront cost versus the level of connected, gamified experience you actually get.
- Long‑term use: Warranty notes (where available), ecosystem lock‑in, and flexibility if you change apps later.
Everything we recommend
Hydrow – Hydrow Arc Rower
The most complete “Peloton-for-rowing” experience with premium resistance and immersive app ecosystem for game-like workouts.
FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro
Hybrid air + magnetic rower offering multi-app support, handlebar controls, and stellar value for flexible connected workouts.
NordicTrack – RW700 Rower
Strong iFIT-integrated magnetic rower with a 10″ HD display for structured, gamified classes and high production value.
Concept2 – RowErg Rower with PM5
Classic air rower with robust metrics and wide third-party app compatibility for performance or data-driven users.
Echelon – Row Connected Rowing Machine
Mid-range connected rower with app classes and Bluetooth handlebar resistance for interactive, game-like sessions.
ProForm – 750R Rower
Affordable entry point to iFIT’s vast guided workout library, with SmartAdjust resistance for gamified sessions.
Yesoul – R1M Plus Rowing Machine
Budget-friendly rower offering a built-in HD screen and interactive app-based workouts for value-focused users.
DeerRun – R1 Pro Smart Rower
Budget smart rower featuring 32 resistance levels and Bluetooth, ideal for casual users seeking guided workouts.
MERACH – Q1S Rowing Machine
Ultra-budget magnetic rower with 16 resistance levels and basic app tracking for beginners wanting simple gamification.
Hydrow – Hydrow Arc Rower
Summary: The Hydrow Arc Rower is the most complete “Peloton‑for‑rowing” experience and the strongest choice if your top priority is deeply immersive, gamified workouts. Its premium electromagnetic resistance and polished Hydrow app ecosystem put it at the top for users who care more about content and community than raw bargain pricing.
Feature Highlights:
- Electromagnetic resistance tuned for smooth, quiet strokes.
- Immersive guided workouts via the Hydrow app, including scenic rows and live events.
- Strong focus on gamified engagement: badges, leaderboards, structured programs.
Pros:
- Best‑in‑class content and coaching for connected rowing.
- Highly engaging for users who need game‑like motivation and scenic classes.
Cons:
- High upfront price at $2,295.00, plus ongoing app subscription.
- Less flexible if you don’t want to commit to the Hydrow content ecosystem.
FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro
Summary: The FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro is a hybrid air + magnetic rower with true multi‑app support, handlebar resistance controls, and a strong value proposition under $700. It’s an excellent choice if you want to gamify fitness with connected workouts but prefer the freedom to choose among several apps instead of being locked into a single platform.
Feature Highlights:
- Dual resistance system: Air + magnetic resistance with 8 magnetic levels and a claimed max magnetic resistance up to 182.59 lbs for an on‑water feel.
- Smart control: Handlebar buttons let you change resistance mid‑stroke; compatible apps can auto‑adjust resistance during workouts.
- Connected apps: Bluetooth connectivity and support for the FED Fitness (Feier) app, iConsole+, and Kinomap for guided, gamified sessions and tracking.
- Comfort & build: Aluminum frame, stainless/steel monorail with nickel‑plated chain; contoured PU foam seat; 34.3° angled frame for better posture; adjustable pedals and device holder.
- Storage‑friendly: Detachable rail/front frame and transport wheels; compact folded footprint (47.2 × 27.6 × 54 in).
Pros:
- Strong blend of air feel and magnetic precision, plus app‑based auto‑adjust resistance for game‑like workouts.
- Flexible ecosystem with Kinomap and other compatible apps; not tied to one subscription.
- Solid ergonomics and 330 lb capacity in a home‑friendly package.
- Competitive pricing at $639.99 (20% off from $799.99) with free shipping, 30‑day money‑back guarantee, and lifetime technical support.
Cons:
- App ecosystem and content depth may not match high‑end proprietary platforms like Hydrow or iFIT.
- Warranty info is slightly unclear (page notes “3 Years Warranty” vs. specs listing frame 5 years / parts 2 years), so you may want to confirm details with the seller.
NordicTrack – RW700 Rower
Summary: The NordicTrack RW700 leans heavily into the iFIT ecosystem, making it ideal for users who want coach‑led classes and auto‑adjusting resistance. It’s a strong, mid‑to‑high‑end pick if you value structured, gamified training with polished production.
Feature Highlights:
- Smart magnetic resistance.
- 10″ HD touch display for built‑in content.
- iFIT integration with coach‑led classes and digital auto‑adjust.
Pros:
- Large integrated screen delivers an engaging, all‑in‑one experience.
- iFIT’s library supports multi‑week programs and automated progression.
Cons:
- At $1,799.99, it’s a sizable investment plus subscription fees.
- Best experienced with iFIT—less attractive if you prefer open, multi‑app compatibility.
Concept2 – RowErg Rower with PM5
Summary: The Concept2 RowErg with PM5 is the classic choice for serious rowers who also want a path into gamified, connected training via third‑party apps. It’s not as cinematic or content‑driven as Hydrow or NordicTrack, but its rock‑solid hardware and app compatibility make it a staple for data‑driven and competitive users.
Feature Highlights:
- Air resistance favored by many performance rowers.
- PM5 performance monitor with detailed metrics.
- Strong third‑party app compatibility (e.g., ErgData, Kinomap) for structured workouts and virtual challenges.
Pros:
- Proven durability and “gym standard” feel.
- Excellent for metrics, performance tracking, and plugging into external gamified apps.
Cons:
- No built‑in large display or native cinematic content.
- Gamification relies heavily on external apps and your own setup.
Echelon – Row Connected Rowing Machine
Summary: Echelon’s Row Connected Rowing Machine targets users who want a mid‑range, app‑driven experience with interactive classes. Bluetooth handlebar resistance control is a standout for game‑like, in‑workout adjustments.
Feature Highlights:
- App‑based classes via the Echelon ecosystem.
- Bluetooth handlebar resistance control.
- Connected metrics for performance tracking.
Pros:
- Good balance of smart features and price at $799.99.
- Resistance changes from the handlebar support responsive, gamified training.
Cons:
- Best value is tied to the Echelon membership.
- Content depth and polish may trail the very top platforms.
ProForm – 750R Rower
Summary: The ProForm 750R is a budget‑conscious gateway into iFIT’s large connected platform. It’s less premium than NordicTrack’s RW700 but still delivers SmartAdjust resistance and thousands of guided workouts.
Feature Highlights:
- Magnetic resistance with automatic SmartAdjust.
- iFIT integration for structured, guided training.
- Designed as an affordable iFIT‑ready rower.
Pros:
- Strong feature set for the $599.99 price point.
- Access to a massive iFIT workout library with auto‑adjusting sessions.
Cons:
- Hardware and feel are more basic than higher‑end competitors.
- Gamified experience is tightly coupled to iFIT; not ideal if you want open‑platform flexibility.
Yesoul – R1M Plus Rowing Machine
Summary: The Yesoul R1M Plus offers an approachable price with the bonus of a built‑in HD screen and interactive workouts. It’s a solid, value‑focused pick for people who want a turnkey, display‑included experience without paying premium prices.
Feature Highlights:
- Built‑in HD screen.
- App‑connected, interactive workout content.
- Gamified performance tracking and guided sessions.
Pros:
- At $499.99, it packs in a screen and smart features at a reasonable cost.
- Convenient, integrated setup lowers the barrier to starting connected workouts.
Cons:
- Ecosystem and content depth may be more limited than Hydrow, iFIT, or Echelon.
- Less transparency around long‑term platform maturity vs. more established brands.
DeerRun – R1 Pro Smart Rower
Summary: The DeerRun R1 Pro Smart Rower is a budget‑friendly smart rower with surprising resistance granularity. Its 32 magnetic resistance levels and Bluetooth‑enabled guided workouts make it a low‑risk entry into gamified rowing, especially for casual users.
Feature Highlights:
- 32 levels of magnetic resistance.
- Long slide rail for various heights.
- Bluetooth connectivity for guided workouts.
Pros:
- Attractive price at $239.00 for a true smart rower.
- High number of resistance levels supports progressive training.
Cons:
- Content, metrics, and app polish may be basic compared with larger ecosystems.
- Hardware and durability expectations should be set to “budget” level.
MERACH – Q1S Rowing Machine
Summary: The MERACH Q1S is one of the most affordable ways to join the app‑connected rowing trend. With 16 resistance levels and MERACH app integration, it’s ideal for beginners who want to log workouts, chase targets, and experience basic gamification at minimal cost.
Feature Highlights:
- Magnetic resistance with 16 levels.
- Dual slide rail and 350 lb weight capacity.
- Bluetooth connectivity and MERACH app integration for tracking and metrics.
Pros:
- Ultra‑budget price at $189.99 yet still Bluetooth‑enabled.
- Enough resistance options for beginners and moderate users.
Cons:
- Limited immersion versus premium ecosystems; content will feel more utilitarian than cinematic.
- Lower price suggests more modest expectations on build and long‑term refinement.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Features | Price Range | Ideal For | Notable Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrow – Hydrow Arc Rower | Electromagnetic resistance; Hydrow app with scenic/live classes; deeply immersive content | $$$$ (~$2,295) | Users who want the most cinematic, game‑like rowing experience | Best‑in‑class content and engagement |
| FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro | Dual air + magnetic resistance; handlebar resistance buttons; Bluetooth with FED Fitness app, iConsole+, Kinomap; compact storage | $$ (~$639.99) | Home users who want flexible multi‑app connectivity and strong hardware value | Hybrid resistance plus open‑ecosystem app support |
| NordicTrack – RW700 Rower | Smart magnetic resistance; 10″ HD screen; iFIT coach‑led classes with auto‑adjust | $$$ (~$1,799.99) | Users who want premium iFIT classes and built‑in display | Polished iFIT integration with auto‑adjust programs |
| Concept2 – RowErg Rower with PM5 | Air resistance; PM5 monitor; strong third‑party app support (e.g., ErgData, Kinomap) | $$$ (~$990) | Performance‑oriented rowers who want robust data and open app options | Industry‑standard hardware with excellent metrics |
| Echelon – Row Connected Rowing Machine | Connected rower; Bluetooth handlebar resistance control; Echelon app classes | $$ (~$799.99) | Users seeking a mid‑range, class‑focused experience | Convenient handlebar resistance changes in sync with classes |
| ProForm – 750R Rower | Magnetic resistance; iFIT SmartAdjust; connected guided workouts | $–$$ (~$599.99) | Budget‑minded users who still want iFIT’s structured programs | Affordable entry into iFIT’s large workout library |
| Yesoul – R1M Plus Rowing Machine | Built‑in HD screen; app‑connected interactive content; performance tracking | $–$$ (~$499.99) | Users who want a built‑in screen without premium prices | Turnkey, screen‑included smart rowing at a value price |
| DeerRun – R1 Pro Smart Rower | 32 magnetic resistance levels; long slide rail; Bluetooth guided workouts | $ (~$239) | Beginners wanting low‑risk entry into smart rowing | High resistance granularity on a tight budget |
| MERACH – Q1S Rowing Machine | 16 magnetic levels; dual slide rail; MERACH app tracking via Bluetooth | $ (~$189.99) | Price‑sensitive users exploring basic app‑connected rowing | Extremely low cost for a Bluetooth‑enabled rower |
Buying Tips
- Decide how much immersion you need.
If you want cinematic rivers, live leaderboards, and studio‑quality classes, look toward Hydrow, NordicTrack RW700, or Echelon. If you’re content with metrics, challenges, and third‑party apps, the FED Fitness Yosuda RM6, Concept2, or MERACH Q1S can be enough. - Consider app lock‑in vs. flexibility.
Hydrow, NordicTrack, ProForm, and Echelon shine when you’re committed to their subscriptions. The FED Fitness Yosuda RM6, Concept2, Yesoul, and some budget options provide more flexibility via broader app compatibility. - Match resistance style to your goals.
- Air or hybrid (air + magnetic): More “on‑water” feel and better for interval work and performance rowing.
- Magnetic only: Quiet and predictable, great for apartment living and video classes.
- Check ergonomics and space.
Look at seat height, rail length, and weight capacity (the Yosuda RM6, for instance, supports up to 330 lbs and folds to a manageable footprint). Ensure you have room for both rowing and safe storage. - Budget for subscriptions.
The hardware price is only part of the equation. Premium platforms may cost you monthly but deliver more gamified motivation; open‑platform machines can stay fun with lower‑cost or freemium apps.
Conclusion
For fully gamified, cinematic rowing, the Hydrow Arc Rower leads the pack. If you want a more balanced mix of strong hardware and open‑platform connectivity, the FED Fitness Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro stands out as a versatile, mid‑priced option with hybrid resistance and multi‑app support.
Performance‑oriented users may gravitate toward the Concept2 RowErg, while budget shoppers can still join the connected‑workout trend with models like ProForm 750R, Yesoul R1M Plus, DeerRun R1 Pro, or MERACH Q1S.
Before you buy, think about which ecosystem you actually want to live in—and then check current prices and subscription terms to make sure your chosen rower will keep you engaged for the long haul.