30 day free trial

Best magnetic rowing machine - test winner according to F.A.Z.

6 February 2025

|

FROM Lars Wichert

Why a rowing machine is the ideal choice for your workout

Rowing is one of the most effective full-body workouts. It works up to 85 % of the muscles, increases endurance and promotes fat burning - all while being gentle on the joints. A high-quality rowing machine offers an efficient way to train from home and challenge the body holistically.
In addition to building muscle and improving fitness, rowing also has numerous health benefits. It strengthens the cardiovascular system, improves posture and reduces the risk of injury as the load is evenly distributed and, unlike jogging, there is no impact load. It also has a positive effect on the metabolism and can help to reduce stress. As the movements involved in rowing are fluid, it is an excellent choice for people with joint problems or those looking for an alternative to jogging or other endurance sports that is easy on the joints. For older people in particular, rowing makes it possible to improve the range of motion of the joints, as a higher degree of mobility can be gained through the guided movement.

Comparison of resistance systems: air, water and magnetic brakes

When purchasing a Rowing machine the braking system plays a decisive role. The three main types - air resistance, water resistance and magnetic brakes - each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

1. air-braked rowing machines
  • Resistance is generated by a fan wheel that is braked.
  • Advantages: Natural resistance curve, suitable for high intensities, adjustable resistance
  • Disadvantages: Very loud

 

2. water-braked rowing machines
  • Resistance is created by a tank filled with water in which the flywheel rotates.
  • Advantages: Pleasant rowing feeling for beginners, water noise.
  • Disadvantages: Louder than magnetic brakes, requires maintenance (topping up with water, cleaning), sometimes slippage when pressure is applied.

3. magnetically braked rowing machines
  • The resistance is generated by a magnetic field that acts on the flywheel.
  • Resistance adjustment is precise and independent of the pulling force.
  • Advantages: Whisper-quiet, maintenance-free, precise resistance adjustment.
  • Disadvantages: Can feel less dynamic than air or water resistance on some machines.

Test winner according to F.A.Z.: The AUGLETICS Eight Sport

The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (F.A.Z.) has the AUGLETICS Eight Sport as the best magnetically braked Rowing machine award - and for good reason. Compared to other rowing machines, it sets new standards in terms of technology, comfort and training efficiency.

Test winner according to F.A.Z.: The AUGLETICS Eight Sport

The AUGLETICS Eight Sport sets itself apart from the competition with numerous unique selling points. While many Rowing machine are either noisy, inflexible or complicated to use, this model combines all the advantages for an optimal training experience:

1. magnetic brake system - quiet, maintenance-free and efficient
  • In contrast to water- or air-braked Rowing machines the magnetic brake works almost silently. Perfect for flats or training late at night or when people are living normally in the neighbouring room.
  • 15 resistance levels enable training ranging from gentle cardio units to intensive strength training. Ten resistance levels for rowing training and five strength levels offer the right resistance for every purpose.
  • No maintenance required - no topping up water, no wear and tear.
 

You operate the touchscreen display of an AUGLETICS rowing machine, which shows various training programmes.

2. state-of-the-art technology with touchscreen
  • The rotatable 10-inch HD touchscreen on the Augletics Eight Sport and the rotatable and swivelling 15-inch HD touchscreen on the Augletics Eight Style are used to control training sessions and analyse performance.
  • Access to streaming services such as Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Prime to keep training entertaining.
  • Integrated training programmes and detailed performance analyses for professional training control.
  • The integrated virtual coach at the AUGLETICS Eight Style is used to learn and improve rowing technique. Over five detailed points of the rowing stroke are analysed in real time for each stroke and feedback is given to the athlete.

Fitness equipment stored upright in a modern living room next to a sofa and bookshelf

3. compact & stylish design
  • At just 181 cm long and 45 cm wide, it is one of the most space-saving appliances on the market.
  • Foldable rail: After training, it takes up just 56 x 45 x 170 cm of space, so that the Rowing machine a place almost everywhere.
  • High-quality materials, such as brushed aluminium or oak, combined with a modern, sleek design make it a visual highlight.

 

4. ergonomics & comfort
  • Ergonomic seat for a comfortable rowing experience even during long training sessions.
  • Adjustable footrests and a non-slip handle ensure an ideal posture and allow the child to move freely. Rowing machine can be optimally adjusted for everyone. Athletes up to two metres tall can train with the AUGLETICS without any problems. The Rowing machine designed for a load of 195 kilograms.

Comparison: AUGLETICS Eight Sport vs. other magnetic rowing machines

While many others Magnetic rowing machines offer simple displays and limited resistance levels, the AUGLETICS Eight Sport with smart technology, high user-friendliness and maximum training variety. The braking system on the AUGLETICS is also electronically controlled. This makes the braking system even more precise than magnetic braking systems, which have no electronic control.

Who is the AUGLETICS Eight Sport ideal for?

This Rowing machine is perfect for you if you:
 
  • value technology and innovation.
  • A quiet but powerful appliance for your home.
  • a space-saving design that can be placed almost anywhere.
 
The AUGLETICS Eight Sport is the undisputed test winner among the magnetically braked Rowing machines and an investment that pays off. It combines state-of-the-art technology with first-class comfort and offers a training experience that is second to none. Whether you are a beginner or an ambitious rower - this machine adapts to your needs and ensures that you get the most out of your training.

Conclusion: Is the AUGLETICS Eight Sport worth it?

If you are looking for a quiet, modern and space-saving Rowing machine that stands out from the crowd with innovative technology, the AUGLETICS Eight Sport the best choice. The F.A.Z. test winner impresses with its combination of magnetic braking system, smart operation and stylish design - an investment that is worthwhile for beginners and ambitious athletes alike.

About the author

This could be of interest for you

Is AUGLETICS right for me?

Is AUGLETICS right for me?

Take two minutes to find out if AUGLETICS is the ideal rowing machine
 for you.

30 day free trial