Water
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Water resistance rowing machines are similar to air rowers in their mechanism. They accurately emulate real rowing; resistance increases according to your pace. Water rowing machines allow you to increase or decrease the pressure by changing the amount of water in the resistance tank. They're not nearly as noisy as air resistance machines, but they're louder than magnetic and piston options. They're the heaviest - and generally most expensive - rowing machines; they're also the most aesthetic models and offer the highest maximum user weights.

Magnetic
Showing 4 of 4 Rowing Machines...
Magnetic resistance - as found in many exercise bikes and elliptical trainers - uses powerful electromagnets to provide a variable system of resistance. Like piston machines, magnetic rowing machines are virtually silent; they're also longer and smoother, which allows fuller, more fluid extension. The variable resistance settings are ideal for those seeking specific workouts; many magnetic rowers offer versatile monitors that give you custom-fit workout options. Serious rowers in training, however, will prefer air or water resistance, both of which vary according to stroke rate.

Air
Showing 2 of 2 Rowing Machines...
Air resistance uses a fan to create resistance - which means it responds to your pace, increasing resistance according to your stroke rate for a great simulation of real rowing. Air models are generally long; they provide more full extension and take up more space, although some fold for easy storage. The fan, while cooling for users, makes air rowers far and away the loudest option.