Stamina has been making home fitness gear for decades, and the X Water Rowing Machine is a solid entry for anyone who wants a natural-feeling row without dropping thousands. The key here is the water resistance. Unlike magnetic or air rowers, water creates a dynamic load that responds to your effort. Pull harder and the resistance spikes. Ease off and it drops. It mimics real rowing better than most machines in this price range.

The tank uses an impeller to churn the water, and the sound is a pleasant, rhythmic whoosh rather than a mechanical whine. It’s not silent, but it’s satisfying. The frame holds up to 300 pounds, and the included heart rate monitor connects to the basic console for real-time feedback. The seat glides smoothly on dual rails, and the adjustable footrests accommodate different shoe sizes.

One honest limitation: the console is basic. It shows time, distance, strokes, and heart rate, but there are no preset workouts or Bluetooth connectivity. You’re getting a mechanical rower with a data screen, not a smart machine. The build is sturdy but not premium—the red and black finish looks fine, but the plastic components won’t win any design awards. For the price, it delivers the core experience well.