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Hydraulic & Compact

Kettler Favorit Hydraulic Rowing Machine

★★★★☆ 3.9/5 · 770 reviewsby Kettler
7.8OUT OF 10
The OarWorks verdict

The Kettler Favorit is a solid entry-level hydraulic rower well suited for home users who need a compact, foldable, and budget-friendly machine for light to moderate cardio workouts. While it lacks the smooth consistent resistance of pricier magnetic or water rowers, it delivers reliable performance for beginners and those with limited space, making it a practical choice for casual fitness routines.

Key Features

Full Specifications

Resistance TypeDual hydraulic cylinders
Folded Dimensions35 x 20 x 10 inches
Max User Weight220 lbs (100 kg)
Frame MaterialSteel
Resistance Levels5 adjustable settings

What we liked

  • Very quiet operation compared to air rowers
  • Compact folded size fits under bed or in closet
  • Sturdy steel frame handles daily use well
  • Smooth rowing motion for a hydraulic design
  • Easy assembly with clear instructions
  • Affordable price point for home use

Worth noting

  • Resistance levels less precise than magnetic rowers
  • Hydraulic cylinders may wear out over years of heavy use
  • Weight capacity lower than commercial-grade machines
  • No digital display on base model
  • Shorter rail limits stroke length for very tall users

The Full Review

The Kettler Favorit is a solid entry-level hydraulic rower well suited for home users who need a compact, foldable, and budget-friendly machine for light to moderate cardio workouts.

The Kettler Favorit is a hydraulic rowing machine built for home users who want a compact, no-fuss way to bring a full-body cardio workout indoors. Rather than relying on a flywheel and chain system like air or magnetic rowers, the Favorit uses dual hydraulic cylinders to generate resistance, a design that keeps the machine notably quiet and mechanically simple. This makes it especially appealing for apartment dwellers or anyone sharing living space, since sessions can be done early in the morning or late at night without disturbing others. The sturdy steel frame reflects Kettler's long-standing German engineering heritage, giving the machine a stable, planted feel even during vigorous rowing strokes, while the padded seat glides smoothly along the rail to support a natural rowing motion. Resistance on the Kettler Favorit is adjustable through the hydraulic cylinders, allowing users to tailor the intensity of each stroke to their fitness level, whether they're just starting a rowing routine or looking to add a challenging strength component to an existing regimen. The rowing arms move independently, which more closely mimics the feel of rowing on water compared to fixed-bar designs, engaging the arms, shoulders, back, core, and legs in a coordinated pulling motion. The footplates are angled and typically include adjustable straps to accommodate different shoe sizes and foot positions, helping users maintain proper form throughout each repetition. A simple monitor is often included to track basic workout metrics like stroke count, time, and estimated calories burned, giving users enough feedback to stay motivated without overwhelming them with unnecessary data. Space efficiency is one of the Favorit's strongest selling points within the hydraulic rowing machine category. Its compact footprint and lighter overall weight compared to flywheel-based rowers make it easy to move and store, with many users tucking it into a closet or against a wall between sessions. The straightforward mechanical design also means fewer components that can wear out or require maintenance, translating into a machine that's meant to deliver reliable, low-upkeep performance over years of regular use. For anyone seeking an entry point into rowing workouts without the bulk, noise, or cost of higher-end machines, the Kettler Favorit offers a practical, space-conscious solution that still delivers a genuine full-body training experience.

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