7 Best Rowing Machines for Bad Knees 2026

Engineered for stability and whisper-quiet performance, the Merach Q1S stands out as a top-tier pick for users with bad knees who demand joint-friendly, full-body workouts. Its dual slide rail system mimics professional water rowers, distributing force evenly and minimizing jarring impacts—a game-changer for low-impact training. Paired with a 16-level magnetic resistance system and a 350lb weight capacity, it delivers smooth, consistent tension without sudden jerks, making every stroke feel controlled and safe. For those prioritizing knee comfort without sacrificing intensity, this machine balances precision, durability, and biomechanical support like few others in its class.

In real-world testing, the Q1S excels in home environments where noise and space matter. The magnetic flywheel operates below 30dB, allowing early-morning sessions without disturbing others—perfect for apartments or shared living. At 65 inches long and storing vertically in just 1.6 x 2.1 feet, it’s more compact than many rivals, yet accommodates users up to 6’7″. During extended rowing sessions, the dual rails eliminate lateral wobble, reducing strain on joints, while the ergonomic seat and padded handle maintain comfort. However, the app integration, though functional with KINOMAP and Merach’s own platform, occasionally lags in syncing heart rate data from external monitors—a minor hiccup in an otherwise seamless digital experience.

Compared to the Concept2 RowErg, the Merach Q1S trades raw athletic performance for enhanced knee safety and home-friendly design. While the Concept2 offers unmatched realism for serious rowers, its air resistance can feel aggressive for rehab or gentle training. The Merach, by contrast, is ideal for older adults, rehab users, or fitness newcomers who need a forgiving stroke profile. It also outshines budget models like the MOSUNY in build quality and app support. For the price, it delivers a rare blend of dual-rail stability, quiet operation, and smart features—making it a smarter long-term investment than basic magnetic rowers, though not as elite as air-powered counterparts.

Ultra-lightweight and knee-conscious, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205SMART is a lifesaver for small spaces and sensitive joints. With a hydraulic resistance system, it eliminates the jerky starts common in magnetic or air rowers, delivering a smooth, fluid stroke that’s gentle on the knees—perfect for beginners, seniors, or post-injury rehab. Weighing just 22.4 pounds, it’s effortlessly portable and folds flat, making it the go-to for apartment dwellers or multi-use rooms. The 12 resistance levels are easily adjustable, letting users start light and progress gradually—a critical feature for joint protection. If your priority is minimal joint stress with maximum convenience, this model hits the sweet spot.

During testing, the hydraulic mechanism proved impressively quiet, with no clunking or grinding—just a soft hiss during motion. The padded seat and pivoting foot pedals adapt well to different body types, reducing knee torque during the drive phase. It’s ideal for short, daily sessions (10–20 minutes) focused on mobility and light cardio. However, the lack of a flywheel means less realistic rowing dynamics—the resistance feels more like a chest press than a true row—so it won’t satisfy serious athletes. Also, the narrow seat can dig in during longer workouts, and the frame flexes slightly under aggressive pulls, limiting high-intensity use.

Against the Merach Q1S, the Sunny model sacrifices stability and realism for unbeatable portability and affordability. It’s not built for heavy daily use or advanced training, but for low-impact, occasional workouts, it’s hard to beat. Compared to the Wenoker or YPOO, it lacks dual rails and app depth, but wins on ease of assembly (under 5 minutes) and space-saving design. While it doesn’t offer the same durability or data tracking, it’s the best choice for those who need a no-fuss, knee-safe rower that disappears into a closet. For users who value simplicity and mobility over performance, this is the ultimate starter machine.

Affordable yet robust, the MOSUNY magnetic rower brings dual slide rail stability to budget shoppers—a rare find under $180. With 16 resistance levels and a 350lb capacity, it offers the same core benefits as pricier models: smooth, low-impact motion ideal for bad knees. The thickened steel frame resists wobble, and the dual rails ensure balanced force distribution, reducing joint strain during the drive phase. For users seeking a no-nonsense, durable machine without smart features, this is a value-packed entry into serious home rowing. The real-time LCD tracking—count, time, distance, calories—keeps workouts accountable, while the device holder supports streaming or form checks.

In practice, the magnetic resistance is impressively quiet, making it suitable for shared living. The stroke feels consistent, with no lag or stutter, and the foot pedals lock securely, preventing slippage that could twist the knee. At 25-minute assembly time, it’s faster than average, and the upright storage saves 70% space—great for tight homes. However, the monitor is basic, lacking heart rate or stroke rate (SPM) data, and the seat, while stable, isn’t heavily padded, becoming uncomfortable past 30 minutes. Also, the app compatibility is absent, limiting digital engagement compared to Merach or YPOO.

Versus the Merach Q1S, the MOSUNY cuts corners on tech but keeps the same dual-rail advantage and resistance range—making it a smarter buy for tech-minimalists. It outperforms the Sunny Health model in build and realism but lacks YOSUDA’s refinement. It’s best for budget-focused users who want joint-safe, full-body workouts without frills. While it doesn’t offer app immersion or elite materials, it delivers 90% of the core rowing experience at half the cost of premium brands—making it a standout for value-driven buyers with knee concerns.

The gold standard for rowing, the Concept2 RowErg is unmatched in realism, durability, and performance—making it the best overall choice for users with bad knees who refuse to compromise on quality. Its air resistance system mimics the feel of real water rowing, with smooth, progressive tension that increases naturally with effort—eliminating jarring starts and allowing precise control over stroke intensity. The PM5 monitor delivers laser-accurate metrics (pace, split time, SPM, heart rate) and supports over 40 apps, turning workouts into immersive training sessions. With a 500lb user capacity and adjustable footrests, it accommodates all body types while maintaining knee-safe biomechanics.

Real-world testing confirms its elite build and low joint impact. The aluminum and steel frame is rock-solid, with zero flex, even during sprints. The seat glides on ball-bearing wheels, ensuring a buttery stroke that doesn’t punish the knees. At just 14 inches tall, the seat height suits most users, reducing hip-knee misalignment. It separates into two pieces for storage and rolls easily on caster wheels. However, air resistance means it’s louder than magnetic models, and the learning curve is steeper—beginners may pull too hard, risking strain. Also, no built-in device holder on base model (sold separately), which is a surprise at this price.

Next to the Merach or YPOO, the RowErg is in a different league: it’s not just a fitness machine, but a training instrument. While it costs significantly more, it lasts decades, making it a long-term investment over disposable home gear. For users with bad knees who want authentic rowing dynamics without joint stress, it’s the only machine that truly replicates on-water movement. It outperforms all others in data accuracy, build quality, and scalability—ideal for serious fitness enthusiasts, rehab patients with therapist guidance, or aging athletes. You pay more, but you gain unmatched performance, longevity, and knee-friendly realism.

Designed for apartment living, the Wenoker rower combines ultra-quiet operation with space-saving design, making it a top pick for urban dwellers with bad knees. Its 16-level magnetic resistance delivers near-silent performance (under 30dB), so early-morning workouts won’t wake roommates—a critical win for joint-safe, consistent training. The steel frame supports 350lbs, and the textured handle and padded seat ensure comfort during longer sessions. With front transport wheels and vertical storage, it glides into corners or under desks, fitting seamlessly into small apartments, balconies, or home offices. For users who need a discreet, low-impact machine, this is a knee-friendly powerhouse.

In testing, the stroke is impressively smooth, with no jolts or resistance spikes—ideal for rehab or gentle cardio. The LCD tracks time, SPM, distance, and calories, giving essential feedback without clutter. The adjustable foot straps and non-slip handle enhance safety, reducing knee strain from unstable footing. However, the monitor lacks heart rate integration, and the app compatibility is limited, missing the immersive training of Merach or YPOO. Also, while the frame is sturdy, it doesn’t have dual rails, so there’s slight lateral movement during aggressive pulls—not ideal for high-intensity intervals.

Compared to the Sunny Health model, the Wenoker offers better resistance control and durability, though it’s heavier and less portable. Against the YPOO, it lacks incline simulation and app depth but matches in quietness. It’s best for users who prioritize peace and privacy over digital engagement. While it doesn’t have the dual-rail stability of Merach or MOSUNY, it delivers a remarkably quiet, joint-safe experience at a fair price. For apartment-based fitness with knee sensitivity, it’s one of the most practical, unobtrusive choices available.

Where value meets innovation, the YPOO rower is the best choice for tech-savvy users with bad knees who want app-driven workouts without breaking the bank. Its 16-level magnetic resistance operates below 25dB, making it one of the quietest machines available—perfect for early risers or shared homes. What sets it apart is the 6.5% incline design, which simulates uphill rowing to intensify workouts while maintaining low joint impact—a smart biomechanical tweak that engages glutes and hamstrings more, reducing knee strain. With dual slide rails, 350lb capacity, and Kinomap compatibility, it blends performance, comfort, and digital immersion like no other budget model.

In real use, the incline feature genuinely changes the feel of the stroke, encouraging a more powerful leg drive and upright posture, which protects the knees. The 46-inch rail fits users 4’5″ to 6’3″, and the water bottle holder and tablet stand add convenience. The YPOOFIT app offers guided programs, turning solo sessions into structured training. However, the incline is fixed, not adjustable, so you can’t toggle it off for flat-rowing variety. Also, the seat, while firm, isn’t plush, and the assembly, though DIY-friendly, takes 30+ minutes for some users.

Versus the Merach, the YPOO offers similar dual-rail stability and app support at a lower price, but lacks Merach’s brand polish. Compared to the Concept2, it’s far quieter and cheaper, though less accurate in metrics. It’s ideal for users who want app-guided, low-impact cardio with a touch of innovation. The incline design alone makes it worth considering for knee rehab or glute activation. For the price, it delivers exceptional features, quietness, and smart integration—making it the best value for connected, joint-safe workouts.

Refined and whisper-quiet, the YOSUDA rower is the best choice for users who demand smooth, silent operation without compromise. Its dual silent system—non-contact magnetic resistance and high-density steel frame—drops noise below 28dB, making it ideal for late-night or shared-space workouts. The 12lb flywheel and 16 resistance levels (via 12×12 magnet system) deliver buttery-smooth tension that’s easy on the knees, with no jerks or lag. With a 48-inch rail and 350lb capacity, it fits most users comfortably, and the thick seat cushion outperforms rivals in long-session comfort—a must for joint-sensitive users.

Testing reveals exceptional build quality—the 5mm-thick steel frame resists flex, even during forceful strokes, and the textured handle stays grippy when sweaty. The 3.45-inch LCD shows six metrics clearly, and the tablet holder is sturdy. It stores vertically, saving 70% space, and rolls easily on large wheels. However, it only offers 12 resistance levels (not 16 as advertised in some listings), which limits high-intensity training. Also, the PM5-like monitor lacks Bluetooth heart rate pairing, a missed opportunity at this price.

Against the Wenoker, YOSUDA wins in frame rigidity and seat comfort, though both are quiet. Versus the MOSUNY, it’s more refined but similarly priced—yet lacks dual rails. It’s best for users who prioritize build quality, comfort, and noise reduction over app features. While not as high-tech as Merach or YPOO, it delivers a premium rowing feel with knee-friendly mechanics. For those who want a durable, quiet, and comfortable machine, it’s a top-tier choice that outshines many pricier models.