Ellipticals vs. Rowers: Which Cardio Machine Is Best for You?

When it comes to choosing the right cardio machine, few comparisons are as common as ellipticals versus rowers. Both are excellent tools for building endurance, burning calories, and supporting joint health. But the right one for you depends on your goals, space, and workout style.

Whether you’re designing your home gym or upgrading your current setup, understanding the differences between these two low-impact cardio machines can help you make the best investment.

At The Fitness Outlet, we’ve spent more than 30 years helping people find equipment that fits their space, lifestyle, and goals. Here’s a breakdown of how ellipticals and rowers compare in calorie burn, joint impact, muscle engagement, and more—plus our recommendations for the best models available now.

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Calorie Burn: The Efficiency Factor

Ellipticals engage both your upper and lower body at once, helping you burn a high number of calories in each session. Depending on your pace and resistance, you can expect to burn between 500 and 800 calories per hour. Adding incline and resistance also helps increase intensity and muscle activation over time.

Rowing machines hold their own when it comes to calorie burn. Because rowing recruits multiple muscle groups—legs, core, back, and arms—it can burn anywhere from 400 to 900 calories per hour. High-intensity rowing intervals, in particular, can spike calorie expenditure in less time.

Verdict: Both are highly effective. Rowers slightly edge ahead for intense, short bursts, while ellipticals are easier to maintain for longer endurance sessions.

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Joint Impact: Protecting Your Body

If you’re looking for low-impact training that’s gentle on your joints, both machines are strong choices, but they move your body in very different ways.

Ellipticals offer a smooth, circular stride that mimics running without the pounding. They’re especially good for anyone with knee, hip, or ankle discomfort.

Rowers are also low-impact but require a strong hinge and leg drive, which can be challenging for users with limited flexibility or lower-back sensitivity. However, with proper form, rowing can strengthen joints and improve mobility over time.

Verdict: For joint protection, ellipticals have the edge. Rowing is better suited for users who want to strengthen their body through functional, full-range motion.

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Muscle Engagement: Total-Body Benefits

Both machines offer excellent muscle activation, but they focus on different patterns of movement.

Ellipticals primarily work the quads, hamstrings, glutes, calves, and core, with added upper-body engagement from the handlebars. The motion is fluid and helps build endurance and tone.

Rowers engage about 85% of your muscles with every stroke. Your legs drive the motion, your core stabilizes, and your back and arms finish the pull. It’s one of the most efficient total-body workouts available.

Verdict: Rowers win for full-body strength and power. Ellipticals are ideal for improving stamina and cardiovascular endurance.

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Space and Storage: Home Gym Considerations

Ellipticals usually take up more vertical and horizontal space and require additional ceiling clearance for incline and stride height. That said, many modern designs are surprisingly compact and quiet, making them great for home use.

Rowing machines are longer but can often be folded or stored upright, which makes them perfect for apartments or multi-purpose rooms.

Verdict: Rowers are generally easier to store. Ellipticals are better suited to users with dedicated gym space.

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Cost Comparison: Long-Term Value

At The Fitness Outlet, we offer both affordable and commercial-grade cardio options that deliver excellent durability.

• Ellipticals range from about $1,500 to $4,000, depending on resistance type, build quality, and console features.

• Rowing machines typically range from $1,000 to $2,500, offering excellent value for full-body conditioning.

Both are long-term investments when you choose premium brands built for longevity and everyday use.

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Recommended Ellipticals and Rowers at The Fitness Outlet

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Which Machine Is Right for You?

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Final Thoughts

When comparing ellipticals and rowing machines, it really comes down to how you like to move. If you enjoy steady-state training and want to protect your joints, an elliptical is a great choice. If you prefer more intensity, muscle engagement, and variety, rowing might be your best fit.

At The Fitness Outlet, we offer a full range of premium ellipticals and rowing machines from trusted brands like Spirit Fitness, BodyCraft, and Assault Fitness. Our team is here to help you find the right model for your goals, budget, and space—so you can keep moving comfortably for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is rowing better than the elliptical for weight loss?
Both burn similar calories. Rowing often leads to faster calorie burn during short, high-intensity sessions, while ellipticals are better for longer endurance workouts.

2. Which is easier on the joints?
Ellipticals are smoother and easier on knees and hips. Rowing machines are still low-impact but require more flexibility and coordination.

3. Can I build muscle with an elliptical?
Yes. Ellipticals build lower-body strength and tone when resistance is added, though not as much as rowing or weight training.

4. Is rowing good for my back?
Yes, when done correctly. It strengthens your back and improves posture, but poor form can cause strain.

5. Which is quieter?
Ellipticals generally run quieter than air-based rowers. Magnetic rowers, like the Spirit CRW900, are a great quiet alternative.

6. How long should I use each machine to see results?
Aim for 30–45 minutes of consistent training three to four times a week. Most users see progress within a month.