I’ve always been a fan of low-impact workouts that deliver a full-body burn, and rowing machines have become my go-to for cardio that doesn’t wreck my joints.
When I decided to upgrade my home gym, I narrowed my choices to two budget-friendly contenders: MERACH and YOSUDA. Both brands promise solid performance without breaking the bank, but which one truly delivers?
In this article, I’ll share my experience testing these machines, breaking down their features, pros, cons, and overall value to help you decide which rower deserves a spot in your fitness routine.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | MERACH | YOSUDA |
| Resistance Type | Magnetic, Dual (Magnetic + Water) | Magnetic, Magnetic + Water |
| Resistance Levels | 16 levels | 8–16 levels (model-dependent) |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 350 lbs | Up to 350–400 lbs |
| Foldable | Yes (most models) | Yes (most models) |
| Noise Level | ~20–40 dB (model-dependent) | ~30 dB (Magnetic), louder for Water |
| Display | Basic LCD, some backlit | Basic LCD, some models with tablet holder |
| App Integration | Merach App, Kinomap compatibility | Kinomap, Feier App compatibility |
| Weight | ~45–50 lbs | ~60–70 lbs |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | ~65” x 19.3” x 24.8” (Q1S) | ~80” x 19” x 43” (Magnetic/Water) |
| Price Range | $239–$499 | $250–$400 |
| Warranty | 1-year manufacturer | 1-year manufacturer |
My Journey With Rowing Machines
I’ve been rowing for a couple of years, mostly at the gym, where I’d wrestle for a turn on the Concept2—a machine everyone seems to worship. It’s fantastic, but at over $1,000, it’s a tough sell for my budget.
I wanted something affordable, reliable, and compact for my small apartment. After scouring reviews and testing both MERACH and YOSUDA models, I realized these brands offer a lot for the price.
They’re not perfect, but they’re practical for casual fitness enthusiasts like me who want a solid workout without the premium price tag.
MERACH Rowing Machines: Features and Performance
MERACH caught my eye with its sleek designs and promises of quiet operation. I tested two models: the Q1SW Magnetic Silent and the R06 Dual Resistance (Magnetic + Water). Here’s what stood out.
- Build and Design
The MERACH Q1SW is a lightweight champ at just 45 pounds, making it easy to move around my apartment. Its dual slide rail, made of titanium alloy, gives it a sturdy feel, and I never worried about it tipping during intense sessions.
The R06, with its water tank, is slightly heavier at 50 pounds (without water) but still manageable. The adjustable legs on both models add stability, which is a big plus on uneven floors.
The ergonomic seat on both is surprisingly comfortable. I rowed for 45 minutes straight without feeling like my backside was staging a protest. The handlebars are padded with soft foam, which kept my hands blister-free—a small but appreciated detail.
- Resistance and Workout Experience
The Q1SW uses magnetic resistance with 16 levels, adjustable via a rotating lever. It’s smooth and quiet, hovering around 40 dB, so I could row while my partner worked from home without complaints.
However, even at the highest setting, the resistance felt a bit light for my taste, especially for HIIT workouts. If you’re a competitive rower, you might find it lacking.
The R06’s dual resistance system is where things get interesting. You can switch between magnetic for a consistent pull or water for that “on-the-water” feel.
The water resistance adds a soothing whooshing sound, which I found therapeutic, but it’s noticeably louder than the magnetic setting. The ability to combine both resistances made my workouts more versatile, though adjusting between them isn’t seamless—you’ll need to pause to tweak settings.
- Technology and Connectivity
MERACH’s app integration is a standout. The free Merach app offers guided workouts, and both models sync with Kinomap for virtual rowing experiences. I loved rowing through virtual lakes while tracking my stats on my phone, which propped nicely on the tablet holder.
The Q1SW’s LCD screen is basic and lacks a backlight, making it hard to read in dim lighting. The R06’s display is slightly better but still not fancy. If you rely on your phone for metrics, this won’t bother you much.
- Storage and Portability
Both models are foldable, a must for my cramped space. The Q1SW lacks transport wheels, which was a minor annoyance when moving it to a corner. The R06 has wheels, making it easier to tilt and roll. Assembly for both took me about 30 minutes, with clear instructions and minimal swearing involved.
Pros of MERACH Rowing Machines
- Quiet operation, especially on magnetic settings (~40 dB).
- Lightweight and compact, ideal for small spaces.
- Dual resistance (R06) offers versatility for different workout vibes.
- App integration with Merach and Kinomap adds interactivity.
- Comfortable seat and handlebar for long sessions.
- Affordable, often under $300 with discounts.
Cons of MERACH Rowing Machines
- Magnetic resistance may feel too light for advanced users.
- Basic LCD screens lack backlighting and advanced metrics.
- Q1SW’s footrests can feel unstable for taller users.
- No transport wheels on some models (e.g., Q1SW).
- Water resistance (R06) requires maintenance to prevent leaks.
YOSUDA Rowing Machines: Features and Performance
YOSUDA’s lineup, including the Magnetic PRO and Magnetic/Water Rowing Machine, impressed me with its durability and value. I tested these models to see how they stacked up.
- Build and Design
The YOSUDA Magnetic PRO feels like a tank, with a steel frame supporting up to 350 pounds. At around 60 pounds, it’s heavier than the MERACH but still manageable.
The Magnetic/Water model, with a 400-pound capacity, is bulkier due to its water tank but feels just as solid. Both have dual slide rails, which kept my strokes smooth and stable.
The seat on the Magnetic PRO is a highlight—thick, cushioned, and contoured to avoid discomfort during long rows. The handlebars are non-slip, and the adjustable foot straps fit my size 10 shoes perfectly. The Magnetic/Water model’s seat is slightly less cushioned but still comfortable for 30-minute sessions.
- Resistance and Workout Experience
YOSUDA’s magnetic resistance is smooth and quiet, clocking in at about 30 dB. The Magnetic PRO offers 16 levels, which I found sufficient for most workouts, though, like MERACH, it’s not intense enough for elite athletes.
The Magnetic/Water model combines air and magnetic resistance (in the Dragonfly Rower) or water and magnetic, giving a more dynamic feel. The water option mimics real rowing better, but the air resistance in the Dragonfly was louder, especially during sprints.
I enjoyed the versatility of the Magnetic/Water model, but switching resistance types isn’t quick—you’ll need to adjust settings manually. For casual rowers like me, this wasn’t a dealbreaker, but it could annoy someone chasing a seamless flow.
- Technology and Connectivity
YOSUDA’s LCD monitors are basic, showing stroke count, time, and calories. The Magnetic/Water model’s tablet holder was a game-changer—I streamed workouts on Kinomap and watched Netflix without missing a beat.
The Dragonfly Rower syncs with the Feier App, which auto-adjusts resistance during guided sessions. It’s not as polished as MERACH’s app, but it gets the job done. The lack of a backlit display was a minor gripe, especially for early morning rows.
- Storage and Portability
Both YOSUDA models are foldable and have transport wheels, making storage a breeze. The Magnetic/Water model’s water tank adds bulk, so it’s not as compact as the Magnetic PRO.
Assembly was straightforward, taking about 25 minutes with clear videos to guide me. The Magnetic PRO’s folding design is slightly more intuitive, which I appreciated after a sweaty workout.
Pros of YOSUDA Rowing Machines
- Sturdy build with high weight capacity (up to 400 lbs on some models).
- Quiet magnetic resistance, ideal for home use.
- Water and air resistance options provide a realistic rowing feel.
- Foldable with transport wheels for easy storage.
- Affordable, with models often under $350.
- Tablet holder and app compatibility enhance workout variety.
Cons of YOSUDA Rowing Machines
- Water tank models require maintenance to prevent leaks.
- Air resistance (Dragonfly) can be noisy during intense rows.
- Basic LCD displays lack advanced metrics.
- Resistance may not satisfy competitive rowers.
- Bulkier than MERACH, especially water-based models.
Head-to-Head Comparison of MERACH And YOSUDA Rowing Machines
- Price and Value
MERACH tends to be slightly cheaper, with models like the Q1SW often dipping below $250 on sale.
YOSUDA’s Magnetic PRO and Magnetic/Water models range from $250 to $400, but the higher weight capacity and sturdier build justify the cost for some.
If budget is your top priority, MERACH edges out slightly, but YOSUDA offers better value for those needing durability and higher weight limits.
- Resistance and Performance
Both brands rely heavily on magnetic resistance, which is smooth and quiet but lacks the intensity of air or water rowers like the Concept2. MERACH’s dual resistance (R06) gives it a slight edge for versatility, as you can switch between magnetic and water for different workout feels.
YOSUDA’s Magnetic/Water model offers similar flexibility, but its air resistance option (Dragonfly) is louder, which might bother you in a quiet home.
- Comfort and Ergonomics
YOSUDA’s seats, especially on the Magnetic PRO, are a tad more comfortable for long sessions. MERACH’s seats are solid but less cushioned. Both have ergonomic handlebars, but YOSUDA’s adjustable foot straps feel more secure for varied foot sizes.
If you’re taller than 6 feet, YOSUDA’s slightly longer slide rail might suit you better, as MERACH’s Q1SW felt cramped for some testers.
- Technology and Features
MERACH’s app integration feels more polished, with the Merach app offering tailored workouts. YOSUDA’s Feier App and Kinomap compatibility are decent but less intuitive.
Both brands’ LCD displays are basic, so you’ll likely rely on your phone or tablet for detailed metrics. If tech is a priority, MERACH has a slight advantage.
- Storage and Space
Both brands shine here, with foldable designs and compact footprints. MERACH’s Q1SW is the lightest and most compact, but the lack of wheels is a drawback. YOSUDA’s models are bulkier but easier to move thanks to transport wheels.
For small apartments, MERACH is the better pick, but YOSUDA’s sturdier build might appeal if space isn’t an issue.
My Experience Using Both
I put both machines through their paces with 30-minute daily sessions for two weeks.
The MERACH Q1SW was my go-to for quiet morning rows.
Its lightweight design made it easy to tuck away, but I wished for stronger resistance during sprints.
The R06’s water resistance was a fun change, though the tank maintenance felt like a chore.
YOSUDA’s Magnetic PRO impressed me with its solid feel and comfortable seat, but the louder air resistance on the Dragonfly was noticeable in my quiet apartment.
Both delivered solid cardio, but neither matched the gym-grade intensity of a Concept2.
Who Should Choose MERACH?
MERACH is ideal if you’re:
- On a tight budget (models often under $300).
- Living in a small space and need a lightweight, foldable rower.
- Looking for quiet operation for shared living spaces.
- Interested in app-driven workouts for variety.
It’s less suited for:
- Competitive rowers needing intense resistance.
- Taller users who might find the slide rail cramped.
- Those who hate maintaining water tanks (R06).
Who Should Choose YOSUDA?
YOSUDA is your pick if you:
- Want a sturdier build with higher weight capacity.
- Prefer a more comfortable seat for longer sessions.
- Don’t mind slightly louder operation for a realistic rowing feel.
- Need a rower for multiple users with different foot sizes.
It’s not ideal for:
- Those needing ultra-quiet operation (especially with air resistance).
- Small apartments where bulkier designs are a hassle.
- Users who want seamless app integration.
Why Not Go for The Concept2?
I kept hearing about the Concept2 as the “gold standard,” so I tested one at my gym for comparison. It’s durable, versatile, and tracks metrics like stroke rate and watts—features MERACH and YOSUDA lack. But at $990–$1,150, it’s a steep investment.
For casual rowers like me, the budget-friendly MERACH and YOSUDA get the job done without the hefty price tag. If you’re a serious athlete or plan to row daily for years, a used Concept2 might be worth hunting down.
Tips For Getting the Most Out of Your Rower
To maximize your rowing experience:
- Focus on Form: Keep your back straight, engage your core, and drive with your legs to avoid strain.
- Mix It Up: Use apps like Kinomap or Merach for guided workouts to stay motivated.
- Maintain Your Machine: Clean slide rails regularly, and for water rowers, change the water every six months.
- Set Goals: Track time, distance, or calories to measure progress.
- Start Slow: If you’re new, begin with 15–20 minute sessions at low resistance to build stamina.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Neither MERACH nor YOSUDA is objectively “the best”—it depends on your needs. MERACH is great for compact spaces and quiet workouts, while YOSUDA offers sturdier builds and higher weight capacity. For elite performance, Concept2 remains the gold standard.
Cheap rowers (like MERACH and YOSUDA) use magnetic or basic water resistance, are quieter, and suit casual users but lack advanced metrics and intensity. Expensive models (like Concept2 or Hydrow) offer air or electromagnetic resistance, robust builds, and detailed tracking for serious athletes.
Yes, rowing is a full-body, low-impact workout that builds cardio, strength, and endurance. Pair it with a balanced diet and consistent routine for best results.
Absolutely, 20 minutes daily at moderate intensity can improve fitness, burn calories, and boost heart health. Increase intensity or duration for greater gains.
Wrapping Up
Choosing between MERACH and YOSUDA comes down to your priorities. If you want a lightweight, quiet rower for a small space, MERACH’s Q1SW or R06 will serve you well with its smooth operation and app integration.
If durability and comfort are key, YOSUDA’s Magnetic PRO or Magnetic/Water models offer a sturdy build and versatile resistance options. Both brands deliver excellent value for casual rowers, so you can’t go wrong either way.
Pick the one that fits your space, budget, and fitness goals, and you’ll be rowing your way to a fitter you in no time.