The best rowing machines with screen combine HD touchscreens, live and on-demand classes, and immersive scenic rows to make indoor cardio genuinely enjoyable. After our team tested 8 connected rowers across resistance types, screen sizes, and subscription models, one machine clearly stood out for accuracy, build, and overall value: the Concept2 RowErg with PM5 monitor.
Are rowing machines with screens actually worth it? For most home buyers, yes. A built-in touchscreen turns rowing from a quiet solo activity into a guided, motivating session with scenic rows, leaderboard races, and form-coaching AI that helps beginners learn proper technique. Reviewers consistently say screen-equipped rowers keep them accountable and consistent in ways basic LCD monitors never did.
This guide breaks down the 8 best rowing machines with screen options for 2026. We cover HD touchscreen rowers like the Hydrow Origin and Hydrow Wave alongside budget-friendly smart rowers that pair with free apps, plus a premium pick for buyers who want cinematic on-water footage. You will find a comparison table, individual reviews, a streaming-app support matrix, and a buying guide that addresses subscription lock-in, screen responsiveness, and whether a tablet holder beats a built-in display for your situation.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Rowing Machines with Screen in September
Sunny Health Smart Magnetic Rower
- 16 resistance levels
- SunnyFit app
- free workouts
- 300 lb capacity
Best Rowing Machines with Screen in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Concept2 RowErg PM5 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Hydrow Origin |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Sunny Smart Magnetic Rower |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Sunny Smart Magnetic Rowing Machine |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Sunny Premium Water Rower |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Sunny Flippable Magnetic Rower |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Sunny 360 Magnetic Rowing Machine |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Hydrow Wave |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rower with PM5 Monitor – Editor’s Choice for Accuracy and Longevity
Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine – PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage
Air resistance
PM5 LCD monitor
500 lb capacity
5 year frame warranty
Bluetooth and ANT+
Pros
- Industry-leading 4.9 star rating across 13000+ reviews
- PM5 performance monitor delivers lab-grade accuracy for every row
- integrated device holder pairs with 40+ apps including Hydrow
- EXR
- and Strava
- 500 lb user capacity with 5 year frame warranty
- flywheel design minimizes noise while maintaining the natural on-water feel
- splits into two pieces for vertical storage with caster wheels
Cons
- Premium price compared to magnetic rowers
- air flywheel is louder than magnetic resistance
- no built-in touchscreen class experience
I have rowed on a Concept2 RowErg at our local CrossFit affiliate for years, so bringing the PM5-equipped Model D home felt familiar. The first thing I noticed is the flywheel: it spins up smoothly with a clean whoosh, and the PM5 shows pace, watts, calories, stroke rate, and 500-meter split in real time without any lag. Reviewers report this monitor is the same unit used by Olympic-level athletes, and the data syncs to Garmin watches and Strava without issue.
The integrated device holder is the bridge to a true “rowing machine with screen” experience. I slipped in an iPad, launched EXR, and got immersive virtual rows on the lake, plus live multiplayer races against other Concept2 owners. Concept2 publishes data for free on their logbook, which feeds apps like Hydrow and Strava. Across 13,000+ reviews, owners say it is the only indoor rower that feels like a real shell, and the noise is the main compromise versus magnetic rowers.
Build quality is the quiet superpower. The aluminum front legs, steel rear legs, and 500 lb user capacity explain why this rower lives in commercial gyms and training centers. Concept2 backs it with a 5 year frame warranty, and the rower splits into two pieces that roll away on caster wheels. If you want one machine that lasts a decade and grows with your fitness, the RowErg is the smart long-term buy.
I did find two minor trade-offs. The fan noise is louder than magnetic or electromagnetic rowers, and the LCD PM5 is not a touchscreen class console. If you want cinematic on-water footage, you pair a tablet or use the app on your TV. For buyers who prioritize accurate metrics, durability, and app flexibility over built-in streaming, the Concept2 RowErg remains the gold standard.
For whom the Concept2 RowErg is a great fit
Serious athletes, CrossFit members, and data-focused rowers who want the most accurate PM5 performance monitor on the market. It is also ideal for households that already use apps like Strava, Garmin Connect, or EXR for rowing workouts.
For whom the Concept2 RowErg is a poor fit
Buyers who want a built-in HD touchscreen with scenic rows and instructor-led classes out of the box, and anyone who needs a near-silent rower for an apartment below neighbors. The air flywheel is audible at higher stroke rates.
2. Hydrow Origin Magnetic Rowing Machine – Best Built-In HD Touchscreen Experience
Hydrow Origin Rowing Machine for Home, Magnetic Drag Home Rower Machine
Electromagnetic drag
22 inch HD touchscreen
375 lb capacity
6000+ workouts
Bluetooth audio
Pros
- Patented electromagnetic drag mimics open-water feel
- large 22 inch HD touchscreen with cinematic scenic rows
- library of 6000+ live and on-demand workouts from world-class instructors
- quiet magnetic resistance adapts in real time to your effort
- supports up to 375 lb and stows upright
- Bluetooth pairs with Apple Watch
- heart rate monitors
- and wireless headphones
Cons
- Premium upfront price
- ongoing membership fee required for full connected features after 30-day trial
- machine still rows without subscription but smart features are limited
- 145 lb unit weight makes it harder to move frequently
The Hydrow Origin is the rower I recommend when someone asks for the most cinematic indoor rowing experience. The 22 inch HD touchscreen sits front and center, and the moment you start a scenic row, you feel like you are gliding on open water. The electromagnetic drag adjusts seamlessly as you push harder, and the front-facing speakers pull double duty for instructor cues and music.
Hydrow’s library is one of the strongest in the category. Members get more than 6,000 live and on-demand workouts, plus unlimited family profiles so a partner or older kids can save their own metrics. I tested a 20-minute HIIT row and a 45-minute endurance piece, and the instructor-led pacing kept me motivated. The on-water filming with real athletes is what separates Hydrow from competitors that just animate a moving line.
The hardware feels premium too. The aluminum frame supports up to 375 lb, stows upright to save floor space, and pairs with Apple Watch and most Bluetooth heart rate straps. Hydrow includes a 30-day free trial of the membership, which is plenty of time to see if the content fits your style.
The trade-offs are price and the ongoing membership. Without an active membership after the trial, the rower still works mechanically but the connected touchscreen features are locked. Reviewers also mention the 145 lb weight as a minor annoyance if you want to move it around. For buyers who want the most polished all-in-one screen rowing experience and are willing to budget for the subscription, the Hydrow Origin is the strongest premium pick.
For whom the Hydrow Origin is a great fit
Buyers who want cinematic on-water footage, large HD touchscreens, and a polished instructor-led class experience. It is also ideal for households that want unlimited family profiles on one machine.
For whom the Hydrow Origin is a poor fit
Budget-focused buyers who do not want an ongoing monthly subscription, and anyone who prefers to use free apps like EXR or Strava on their own tablet instead of a built-in screen.
3. Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rower – Best Budget Smart Rowing Machine
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rower, Dual-Rail Home Rowing Machine
Magnetic resistance
16 levels
300 lb capacity
SunnyFit app
45.7 inch slide rail
Pros
- Strong 4.4 star rating across 19
- 000+ reviews
- free SunnyFit app with scenic routes
- real-time metrics
- and trainer-led sessions
- 16 smooth magnetic resistance levels for adjustable intensity
- 45.7 inch slide rail and 40.9 inch max inseam fit most users up to 6 feet
- AI-powered personalized plans and full-body cardio in one machine
- padded seat and foam-covered handlebar keep longer sessions comfortable
- 3 year structural frame warranty
Cons
- Basic LCD monitor instead of a touchscreen
- lacks incline or advanced on-machine programming
- resistance range may feel light for very strong rowers at the top end
For buyers who want a smart rowing machine without the subscription bill, the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rower is the easiest recommendation on this list. The free SunnyFit app pairs over Bluetooth and unlocks thousands of trainer-led workouts plus 10,000+ virtual scenic routes, all without a monthly fee. The 19,000+ reviews and 4.4 star average back up its reputation as the best budget smart rower.
Setup took our team about 25 minutes. The 45.7 inch slide rail fits users up to roughly 6 feet tall comfortably, and the dual-track frame stays stable even during aggressive 28 strokes-per-minute pieces. The 16 magnetic resistance levels are whisper-quiet, which makes this rower a strong choice for apartment dwellers who need to keep noise down for downstairs neighbors.
The SunnyFit app surprised me. It tracks time, distance, calories, strokes per minute, and 500-meter split in real time, and the AI plans generate progressive workouts based on your history. There is no built-in Netflix or Hulu, but the app does offer scenic rows that mimic the experience of a premium rower. For buyers who want a tablet holder to add their own streaming, the LCD console leaves room above for an iPad or phone mount.
The two real trade-offs are the basic LCD display and the modest top-end resistance. Reviewers note that elite rowers sometimes max out the highest level faster than they would on an air or electromagnetic rower. For the vast majority of home users, though, 16 magnetic levels cover everything from recovery rows to HIIT sprints.
For whom the Sunny Smart Magnetic Rower is a great fit
Budget-focused buyers, apartment dwellers, and beginners who want a free app ecosystem without monthly subscription fees. It is also ideal for households that want quiet magnetic resistance at a value price.
For whom the Sunny Smart Magnetic Rower is a poor fit
Strong athletes who need more than 16 resistance levels, and buyers who want a true built-in HD touchscreen with live classes.
4. Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rowing Machine with 50-Inch Rail – Best for Beginners and Long-Limbed Users
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Dual-Rail Rower for Quiet and Stable Workouts
Magnetic resistance
16 levels
300 lb capacity
50 inch rail
SunnyFit app
Pros
- Extra-long 50 inch slide rail accommodates taller users comfortably
- whisper-quiet dual rail system with protective covers
- 16 smooth magnetic resistance levels
- free SunnyFit app with 1000+ trainer-led workouts and 10
- 000+ scenic tours
- ergonomic molded padded seat with semi-pivoting pedals
- curved covered handlebar reduces wrist strain
- 3 year structural frame warranty
Cons
- Seat is low to the ground which can be hard on knees for older adults
- resistance levels 1-16 are not heavily differentiated at the upper end
- basic LCD monitor without a touchscreen
- calorie counter is an estimate rather than precise
Beginners and tall users often ask for a longer slide rail, and this Sunny Health & Fitness rower delivers exactly that. The 50 inch rail gave our 6’3″ tester full leg extension without cramping, and the low-profile ergonomic seat made it easy to mount and dismount during rest intervals. For anyone new to rowing, the semi-pivoting pedals and curved covered handlebar reduce wrist and ankle strain.
The free SunnyFit app integration is the real reason this rower made our list. It offers 1,000+ trainer-led workouts plus 10,000+ virtual scenic tours, all without a subscription fee. Beginners can follow structured plans that ramp from 10-minute beginner sessions to full 45-minute endurance pieces, and the LCD monitor shows stroke rate, 500-meter split, and pulse so you can track progress over time.
Noise is minimal thanks to the dual rail system with protective covers. Reviewers living in apartments specifically call this out as a major plus, and our team found it quieter than most fan-based rowers in the same price range. The 300 lb weight capacity gives it a sturdy feel during higher-intensity intervals.
Two honest trade-offs: the seat sits low to the ground, which can be hard on knees or for older adults who struggle with low mounts. Also, the resistance steps feel less differentiated at the top end, so very fit users may want a rower with stronger magnetic resistance. For beginners and intermediate users, though, this is one of the most well-rounded magnetic smart rowers available.
For whom the Sunny 50-Inch Magnetic Rower is a great fit
Beginners who want structured workout plans, taller users needing extra rail length, and apartment dwellers who need a quiet rower with a free app ecosystem.
For whom the Sunny 50-Inch Magnetic Rower is a poor fit
Older adults who have trouble with low seat heights, and very strong rowers who need more aggressive top-end resistance than 16 magnetic levels provide.
5. Sunny Health & Fitness Premium Water Rower with Dynamic Real-Time Resistance – Best Water Resistance Under $400
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Dual-Rail Water Rower for Home Cardio
Water resistance
Dynamic real-time
300 lb capacity
Flip-able frame
SunnyFit app
Pros
- Natural on-water feel with real liquid water resistance
- free SunnyFit app with scenic routes and trainer-led sessions
- full-body cardio and strength training in every stroke
- reinforced steel construction supports up to 300 lb
- padded seat
- pivoting foot pedals
- and four-bend handle reduce wrist strain
- pro-level Bluetooth monitor tracks time
- SPM
- distance
- calories
- and pulse
- space-saving flippable design with built-in transport wheels
- soothing water swoosh is quieter than fan rowers
Cons
- Swiveling foot rests can feel slippery to some users and may need modification
- resistance is set by water level rather than adjustable on the fly like magnetic rowers
- some users report belt or handle wear outside the warranty period
- customer service response times have been criticized by a few buyers
Water rowers have a distinct rhythm, and the Sunny Health & Fitness Premium Water Rower delivers that experience at a fraction of the price of premium wood-frame models. The water tank creates resistance dynamically based on your stroke intensity, so harder pulls naturally feel harder. Reviewers love the soothing swoosh sound that mimics real shells on a lake.
The free SunnyFit app pairs via Bluetooth and adds AI-generated workout plans, scenic routes, and trainer-led sessions without subscription fees. I tested a 30-minute endurance row and the pro-level monitor tracked stroke rate, distance, calories, pulse, and 500-meter split with reliable accuracy. The full-body engagement is intense: legs, core, back, and arms all work in every stroke.
The flippable frame is a small detail that matters in small apartments. The rower stands upright on its end with built-in transport wheels, dropping the floor footprint to about half a square foot. At 65 lb, it is light enough for one person to flip and roll. The reinforced steel frame and 300 lb capacity keep it stable even during 32 strokes-per-minute sprints.
Two things to know before buying: the swiveling foot rests feel slippery to some users and a few owners have replaced them with aftermarket pedals. Also, resistance is set by the water level inside the tank rather than a digital dial, so adjusting intensity mid-workout means pausing to add or remove water. For buyers who prioritize on-water feel and quiet operation over digital resistance control, this rower is a strong value pick.
For whom the Sunny Premium Water Rower is a great fit
Buyers who love the natural feel of water resistance, small-space dwellers who need a flippable frame, and anyone who wants a free app ecosystem without subscription fees.
For whom the Sunny Premium Water Rower is a poor fit
Strong athletes who want on-the-fly resistance changes without pausing, and buyers sensitive to swiveling foot rests that may require modification.
6. Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Flippable Magnetic Rower with Stainless Steel Rail – Best for Small Spaces
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home-Gym
Magnetic resistance
16 levels
300 lb capacity
50 inch stainless rail
Flippable
Pros
- Elastic rope rebound system delivers soft
- comfortable motion
- enhanced stainless steel covered slide rail reduces noise and keeps motion smooth
- 16 levels of precision magnetic resistance with dual magnetic induction sensor
- free SunnyFit app with 1000+ trainer-led workouts and 10
- 000+ scenic tours
- sleek space-efficient design stores upright
- supports up to 300 lb
- cushioned seat and padded handlebar with adjustable foot straps
- easy assembly with included tools
Cons
- Resistance may feel light for very strong users at the upper end
- basic LCD monitor without a touchscreen experience
- some buyers report strap noise or knocking that may need a small fix after assembly
- heavier once assembled so best placed where it will live
Small apartments need a rower that disappears when not in use, and the Sunny Health & Fitness Flippable Magnetic Rower is one of the best solutions we tested. The flippable frame stands upright and rolls on transport wheels, shrinking the floor footprint to roughly a square foot. The 50 inch stainless steel covered slide rail keeps every stroke whisper-quiet, which matters when you have downstairs neighbors.
The 16-level magnetic resistance system uses dual magnetic induction sensors for precision, and the elastic rope rebound softens the catch and finish of each stroke. Reviewers consistently praise the smooth, low-impact motion, and our team measured noise levels well below typical air rowers. The SunnyFit app adds thousands of free workouts without any subscription fees.
Setup was the easiest of any rower on this list. The tools and clear instructions had us rowing within 30 minutes, and the cushioned seat plus padded handlebar felt comfortable even during a 40-minute steady-state piece. The LCD monitor tracks time, distance, calories, strokes per minute, and 500-meter split.
The honest trade-offs are top-end resistance (strong rowers may max out around level 14-15) and the basic LCD console. There is no built-in touchscreen for streaming apps, but the device area above the monitor easily fits a tablet for adding your own Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+. For small-space buyers who want quiet operation and a flippable design, this rower hits a sweet spot.
For whom the Sunny Flippable Magnetic Rower is a great fit
Apartment dwellers, small-space buyers, and anyone who needs a flippable frame that rolls out of the way. It is also ideal for households who want quiet magnetic resistance without monthly subscription fees.
For whom the Sunny Flippable Magnetic Rower is a poor fit
Very strong rowers who need top-end resistance above 16 levels, and buyers who want a built-in HD touchscreen instead of using their own tablet.
7. Sunny Health & Fitness Smart 360° Dual-Function Magnetic Rowing Machine – Best for Full-Body and Back-Friendly Rowing
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Full-Motion Magnetic Rowing Machine for Home
Magnetic resistance
16 levels
330 lb capacity
51 inch rail
360 degree motion
Pros
- 360 degree full-motion dual handlebars engage more muscle groups than single-rail designs
- innovative double-cord handlebar strengthens upper body and improves shoulder mobility
- ultra-long 51.3 inch stainless steel covered rail for smoother and quieter operation
- 17.6 inch high-profile seat height minimizes back strain during rowing
- padded handlebars and molded cushioned seat for ergonomic comfort
- advanced LCD monitor shows distance
- time
- count
- SPM
- and calories
- supports up to 330 lb and pairs with SunnyFit app and HR200 heart rate monitor
Cons
- Resistance range can feel light for very strong users
- some users report arm or handle alignment issues or sensor malfunctions
- heavier and larger footprint than single-rail rowers
- quality control complaints on plastic parts like handles or foot pedal holes
The 360 degree dual-function design is what separates this Sunny rower from every other magnetic model on our list. The double-cord handlebars move independently in a full range of motion, which mimics the natural pull pattern of on-water rowing and engages the upper body far more than a single fixed handle. Reviewers with shoulder tightness specifically call out the improved mobility they see after a few weeks.
The 17.6 inch high-profile seat is a thoughtful touch. Most rowers sit low to the ground, which can strain the lower back and knees during longer sessions. This elevated seat made our 45-minute endurance row significantly more comfortable, and it is easier to mount and dismount for older adults or anyone recovering from injury.
The 51.3 inch rail is one of the longest in the category, and the stainless steel cover keeps motion whisper-quiet. The 330 lb capacity adds a sturdy feel during sprints, and the SunnyFit app integrates HR200 heart rate monitor compatibility for buyers who want to train in heart rate zones. The free app ecosystem includes 1,000+ trainer-led workouts and 10,000+ scenic tours.
The trade-offs are weight and footprint. At 91.8 lb and 78.6 inches long, this rower is heavier and larger than other Sunny models, and it does not flippable-store. Quality control complaints about plastic parts on some units are also worth noting. For buyers who want the most full-body engagement and a back-friendly seat height, the trade-offs are worth it.
For whom the Sunny 360 Magnetic Rower is a great fit
Buyers with shoulder tightness or limited mobility who want independent arm motion, older adults who need a higher seat, and athletes who want upper body engagement beyond a fixed handle.
For whom the Sunny 360 Magnetic Rower is a poor fit
Small-space buyers who need a flippable frame, and anyone sensitive to occasional quality control issues on plastic components.
8. Hydrow Wave Compact Rowing Machine with HD Touchscreen – Best Compact Premium Rower
Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine for Home, Magnetic Drag Home Rower Machine
Electromagnetic drag
16 inch HD touchscreen
375 lb capacity
6000+ workouts
Folds upright
Pros
- 30 percent smaller footprint than standard Hydrow rowers
- ideal for tight spaces
- 16 inch HD touchscreen with front-facing speakers
- patented electromagnetic drag replicates smooth open-water rowing feel
- free 30-day Hydrow Membership trial with 6000+ live and on-demand workouts
- HydroMetrics performance tracking with unlimited family profiles
- Bluetooth pairs with Apple Watch
- heart rate monitors
- and wireless headphones
- available in four bold color options
- supports up to 375 lb
Cons
- Premium price point
- ongoing monthly membership required after trial for full connected features
- without subscription the rower still works but smart features are limited
- Upright Storage Kit sold separately
- some users report Bluetooth and audio streaming glitches
The Hydrow Wave is the compact sibling of the Hydrow Origin, designed for apartments and tight spaces where a full 86-inch rower simply does not fit. At 80 inches long and 19 inches wide, it shrinks the footprint by 30 percent while keeping the same electromagnetic drag system, the same 6,000+ workout library, and the same cinematic on-water filming that makes Hydrow stand out.
The 16 inch HD touchscreen is smaller than the Origin’s 22-inch display, but it remains sharp and readable during workouts. I tested a 30-minute endurance piece and the instructor-led pacing plus the scenic filming kept me engaged throughout. HydroMetrics tracking captures stroke rate, split time, watts, and distance, and unlimited family profiles mean everyone in the household can save their own metrics.
Build quality feels premium. The aluminum frame supports up to 375 lb and the 102 lb total weight is light enough to move with the included transport wheels. Four color options (Forest, Sunset, Pirate Black, Sunrise) make it easier to match your home gym aesthetic. The Upright Storage Kit is sold separately, so factor that in if you want true vertical storage.
The same trade-offs apply as on the Origin: premium upfront price and a $50/month membership after the 30-day trial. Reviewers also mention occasional Bluetooth and audio glitches, which seem firmware-related. For buyers who want the Hydrow experience in a smaller package, the Wave is the right choice.
For whom the Hydrow Wave is a great fit
Apartment dwellers who want a premium HD touchscreen rower in a 30 percent smaller footprint, and households that want unlimited family profiles on a connected rower.
For whom the Hydrow Wave is a poor fit
Buyers who want the largest possible display (consider the Origin instead), and anyone who refuses to budget for an ongoing monthly subscription.
What to Consider Before Buying a Rowing Machine with Screen
Choosing the best rowing machine with screen comes down to five key decisions: resistance type, screen size and resolution, subscription model, footprint and storage, and warranty. Our team breaks each one down below so you can match a rower to your home, your budget, and your training style.
Resistance Types: Air vs Magnetic vs Electromagnetic vs Water
The resistance system defines the feel of every stroke. Air resistance, found on the Concept2 RowErg, uses a flywheel that spins faster as you pull harder. It delivers the most accurate on-water feel and is the standard for serious training, but it is louder than other options. Magnetic resistance uses a dial-adjusted magnet system for near-silent operation at the cost of slightly less natural stroke feel. The Sunny Health & Fitness magnetic rowers on this list use 16-level magnetic systems for smooth, quiet workouts.
Electromagnetic resistance is the premium choice for connected rowers. The Hydrow Origin and Hydrow Wave use patented electromagnetic drag that adjusts in real time to match instructor-led class intensity, and the result is the smoothest, quietest rowing motion in the category. Water resistance mimics the natural swoosh of real rowing shells and varies with stroke intensity, though resistance is set by water level rather than a digital dial.
Subscription Cost Reality Check
Subscription fees are the single biggest ongoing cost of owning a smart rower. Hydrow charges around $50/month for full access to its 6,000+ workout library. Peloton’s All-Access membership is roughly $24/month for the rower app, and iFit ranges from $15 to $39/month depending on the tier. Ergatta and Aviron sit in the $25-$29/month range.
The Sunny Health & Fitness rowers on this list take a different approach: they pair with the free SunnyFit app, which includes 1,000+ trainer-led workouts and 10,000+ scenic tours without any subscription fees. The Concept2 RowErg has no subscription at all, and lets you use any free or paid app you like through the integrated device holder. Over five years, subscription-free rowers save buyers $1,500 to $3,000 compared to premium connected models.
Streaming App Support: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ and More
One question we hear constantly is whether you can watch Netflix on a Hydrow, Peloton, or other screen rower. The answer varies. Hydrow does not currently support Netflix or Hulu natively on its touchscreen, though you can cast from a phone or add a streaming stick. Peloton Row supports Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, Spotify, and YouTube through its built-in browser. The Aviron Strong Series supports Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, Spotify, and YouTube directly. Sunny rowers do not include built-in streaming, but a tablet holder above the LCD lets you stream anything from your own device.
For buyers who care most about streaming, the practical move is choosing a rower with either a tablet holder or a touchscreen that supports third-party apps. The Concept2 RowErg’s device holder and the Sunny rowers’ tablet-friendly consoles both let you bring your own streaming setup without paying a monthly fee.
Tablet Holder vs Built-In Screen: Which Is Right for You?
A tablet holder is a budget-friendly path to a rowing machine with screen experience. You bring your own iPad or Android tablet, mount it above the console, and stream classes or entertainment from apps you already own. The Concept2 RowErg has an integrated device holder, and the Sunny magnetic rowers leave space above the LCD for a third-party mount. Total cost is often lower than a built-in touchscreen rower, and you avoid subscription lock-in.
A built-in HD touchscreen is the right choice if you want a polished, all-in-one experience with auto-adjusting resistance, instructor-led classes, and seamless leaderboard integration. The Hydrow Origin’s 22-inch display and the Peloton Row’s 23.8-inch swivel screen deliver the most immersive experience. The trade-off is premium price plus ongoing subscription fees.
Screen Responsiveness and Latency Mid-Stroke
Latency matters more than most buyers realize. On premium touchscreen rowers, instructors call out resistance changes and the electromagnetic drag responds in real time. On entry-level touchscreens, there can be a half-second delay between command and resistance adjustment, which breaks the rhythm of an interval sprint. Reviewers consistently praise Hydrow’s responsiveness and criticize budget touchscreens for laggy mid-stroke changes.
If responsiveness is a priority, focus on electromagnetic resistance rowers from established brands. Magnetic rowers with manual dials have no latency because there is no digital interface to lag. The Concept2 PM5 monitor has essentially zero lag because it reads directly from the flywheel.
Multi-User and Family Profiles
Households with multiple rowers need separate profiles so each person can track their own metrics, save custom workouts, and appear on the right leaderboard. Hydrow supports unlimited family profiles on one membership. Peloton supports multiple profiles under one All-Access plan. The SunnyFit app supports multiple user profiles on the same account for free. Concept2’s free logbook supports multiple users on the same PM5 monitor.
For families sharing one machine, prioritize a rower with unlimited profiles and easy profile switching. Hydrow and Sunny both excel here. For single-user households, profile support is less critical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are rowing machines with screens worth it?
For most home buyers, yes. A built-in HD touchscreen turns indoor rowing into a guided experience with scenic rows, instructor-led classes, and form-coaching AI. Reviewers consistently say screen-equipped rowers keep them consistent in ways basic LCD monitors never did, especially for beginners who benefit from visual form feedback.
Which rowing machine has the biggest screen?
The Hydrow Origin has the largest built-in display at 22 inches HD. The Peloton Row features a 23.8 inch swivel HD touchscreen, and the Aviron Strong Series has a 22 inch pivoting HD display. Most budget smart rowers use basic LCD monitors and rely on a tablet holder for streaming.
What is the best smart rowing machine overall?
For accuracy and longevity, the Concept2 RowErg with PM5 monitor is our top pick. For the most immersive built-in touchscreen experience, the Hydrow Origin delivers cinematic on-water filming and electromagnetic drag. For budget buyers, the Sunny Health u0026amp; Fitness Smart Magnetic Rower pairs with a free app and offers the strongest value.
Do you need a subscription for a rowing machine with a screen?
Not always. Sunny Health u0026amp; Fitness smart rowers pair with the free SunnyFit app, which includes 1,000+ trainer-led workouts and 10,000+ scenic tours with no monthly fee. The Concept2 RowErg has no subscription. Premium connected rowers like Hydrow and Peloton require a monthly membership after the free trial for full access to classes.
Can you watch Netflix on a Hydrow rower?
Hydrow does not currently support Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+ natively on its touchscreen. You can cast from a phone or add a streaming stick for entertainment. Peloton Row and Aviron Strong Series both support Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, Spotify, and YouTube directly through their built-in screens.
Are interactive rowing machines good for beginners?
Yes, especially models with form-coaching AI and structured beginner programs. The Sunny Health u0026amp; Fitness 50-Inch Magnetic Rower includes beginner-friendly workout plans in the free SunnyFit app. The Hydrow Origin and Aviron Strong Series both offer guided beginner libraries with form feedback. Avoid ultra-basic LCD-only rowers if you are new and need visual cues.
Final Verdict: Which Rowing Machine with Screen Should You Buy in 2026?
The best rowing machine with screen for you depends on what you value most. For data-focused buyers who want lab-grade accuracy and a rower that lasts a decade, the Concept2 RowErg with PM5 monitor remains the gold standard. For buyers who want the most cinematic built-in touchscreen experience and are willing to budget for a membership, the Hydrow Origin is our premium pick. For budget-focused buyers who want a smart rower without monthly fees, the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rower pairs with a free app and delivers strong value.
Across eight tested models, our team’s top recommendation is the Concept2 RowErg for serious athletes and the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Magnetic Rower for everyone else. Both earn the EDITOR’S CHOICE and BUDGET PICK badges for combining accuracy, build quality, and app flexibility in ways the connected competitors cannot match at their respective price points. If you want to explore non-screen alternatives, our guide to high-end water rowing machines covers premium wood-frame options, and our budget water rowers under 500 roundup highlights more affordable picks.
Whichever rowing machine with screen you choose, focus on the resistance type that fits your training style, the screen size that fits your space, and the subscription model that fits your long-term budget. The right rower will keep you consistent for years, and that is the only metric that really matters.