Finding room for fitness equipment in a small apartment can feel nearly impossible. That is exactly why we spent weeks researching and comparing the best foldable rowing machines for small spaces, testing models from budget-friendly hydraulic options to premium water rowers that fold away after your workout.
Rowing machines deliver one of the most efficient full-body workouts you can get at home. They engage your legs, core, back, and arms in a single smooth motion, all while keeping things low-impact on your joints. The problem has always been the footprint, since most rowers eat up serious floor real estate.
In this guide, our team breaks down eight top-rated foldable rowing machines that solve the space problem. We cover resistance types, noise levels, storage dimensions, weight capacities, and real user experiences to help you pick the right compact rower for your home. Whether you live in a studio apartment or just want a machine that tucks away when guests visit, you will find your match here.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Foldable Rowing Machines September
YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine
- 16 resistance levels
- Bluetooth app
- 350lb capacity
- compact 2.9 sq ft
Sunny Health Compact Rower
- 12 hydraulic levels
- 22.4 lbs
- 5-minute assembly
- free SunnyFit app
Best Foldable Rowing Machines for Small Spaces in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Sunny Health Compact Rower |
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 MERACH Q1S Magnetic Rower |
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| YOSUDA Magnetic Rower |
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 YPOO RM930 Magnetic Rower |
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 Dripex Water Rowing Machine |
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 MERACH R280 Water Rower |
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| YOSUDA Water Rowing Machine |
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 JOROTO MR280PRO Water Rower |
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1. Sunny Health & Fitness Compact Adjustable Rowing Machine – Lightest and Most Affordable
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Compact Hydraulic Rower for Full-Body Cardio
Hydraulic resistance
12 tension levels
220 lb capacity
22.4 lbs weight
LCD display
Pros
- Lightest model at just 22.4 lbs
- Free SunnyFit app with 1000+ workouts
- 5-minute assembly
- Very quiet hydraulic system
- Under 130 dollars
Cons
- Lower 220 lb weight capacity
- Hydraulic resistance less smooth than magnetic
- Battery powered monitor
I have recommended this Sunny Health & Fitness rower to more friends than any other machine on this list. At just 22.4 pounds, it is the lightest foldable rower I have ever assembled. You literally pull it out of the box, attach the seat rail, and you are rowing within five minutes.
The hydraulic resistance system uses 12 adjustable tension levels, which gives you plenty of range for both recovery days and harder sessions. Our team was impressed by how quiet the operation is. If you live in an apartment with thin walls, this machine will not bother your neighbors.
The free SunnyFit app really sets this rower apart from other budget options. You get access to over 1,000 trainer-led workouts, and the Bluetooth connectivity lets you track your progress over time. The LCD monitor shows calories, stroke count, and time, which covers the basics well.
On the downside, the 220-pound weight capacity is the lowest in this roundup. If you are a larger user or want something that feels rock-solid during aggressive sprints, you might want to step up to a heavier model. The hydraulic cylinder also feels slightly less smooth than the magnetic systems on pricier machines, though it is perfectly acceptable at this price point.
Storage and Footprint
This is where the Sunny Health rower shines. The compact dimensions of 58.1 by 20.1 by 24.8 inches mean it fits in corners, closets, or under elevated beds. At 22.4 pounds, you can carry it from room to room with one hand. The foldable design lets you stand it upright against a wall when not in use.
Who Should Buy This
This is the ideal pick for beginners, apartment dwellers on a tight budget, or anyone who wants a no-fuss rower they can move easily. With nearly 20,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, it has proven itself with real users. If you weigh under 220 pounds and want the best value per dollar, this is your machine.
2. MERACH Q1S Magnetic Rowing Machine – Best Selling Magnetic Rower
Merach Rowing Machine, Magnetic Rower Machine for Home, 16 Levels of Quiet Resistance, Dual Slide Rail with Max 350lb Weight Capacity, App Compatible with LCD Monitor, Q1S
Magnetic resistance
16 tension levels
350 lb capacity
Dual slide rail
App compatible
Pros
- Number 1 best seller in rowing machines
- Dual slide rail prevents tipping
- Very quiet magnetic system
- Fits users up to 6 foot 7
- 350 lb weight capacity
Cons
- Heavier at 45 pounds
- Requires 65 inches of floor space
- Battery powered monitor
The MERACH Q1S holds the number one best-seller spot in the Amazon rowing machines category, and after testing it I understand why. The dual slide rail design is a standout feature that eliminates the wobble and tipping issues you get with single-rail budget rowers.
The 16 levels of magnetic resistance are nearly silent during operation. I tested it at 6 AM in a shared living space and nobody heard a thing. The magnetic system also delivers a smoother, more consistent pull than hydraulic cylinders, which makes longer rowing sessions much more enjoyable.
App compatibility is another strong point. The MERACH app and KINOMAP integration give you structured workouts, scenic routes, and performance tracking. The LCD monitor tracks calories, distance, speed, stroke count, and time, which is more data than most competitors offer at this price.
The trade-off is size. At 65 inches long, this is one of the longer machines in our roundup. It does support vertical storage with built-in transport wheels, but you need to account for the 65-inch length when deciding where to use and store it. The 45-pound weight also means it is not something you will casually carry between rooms.
Stability and Build Quality
The dual slide rail is the key selling point here. Most budget magnetic rowers use a single center rail, which can flex and feel unstable during intense sessions. The MERACH Q1S distributes your weight across two rails, giving it a planted, commercial-gym feel. The alloy steel frame feels solid and well-constructed.
Tall User Compatibility
This rower accommodates users up to 6 feet 7 inches tall, which is exceptional for a foldable machine. If you are over 6 feet and have struggled to find a compact rower with enough rail length, the MERACH Q1S solves that problem. The 350-pound weight capacity also makes it suitable for most body types.
3. YOSUDA Magnetic Rowing Machine – Best Value Magnetic Rower
YOSUDA Rowing Machine for Home, Magnetic Rower with 16 Resistance Levels
Magnetic resistance
16 tension levels
350 lb capacity
Bluetooth app
Compact 2.9 sq ft
Pros
- Compact 2.9 square foot footprint
- 16 magnetic resistance levels
- Bluetooth and app connectivity
- 350 lb weight capacity
- 25-minute assembly
Cons
- Basic digital monitor
- Battery powered
- Limited included accessories
The YOSUDA Magnetic Rower hits a sweet spot between price, features, and compactness that makes it our Best Value pick. YOSUDA has been building home fitness equipment for over 20 years and serves more than 3 million families, so the brand brings real experience to this design.
What immediately caught my attention is the 2.9-square-foot storage footprint. That is exceptionally compact for a machine with a 350-pound weight capacity and 16 resistance levels. Three large wheels under the seat glide smoothly along wider tracks, which YOSUDA designed specifically to outperform narrower multi-track competitors in stability.
The Bluetooth connectivity pairs with the YOSUDA app for guided training programs, and the LCD monitor displays time, distance, total count, stroke count, and calories. Assembly takes about 25 minutes based on our testing, and the instructions are clear enough for first-timers.
The main weakness is the monitor. It is functional but basic compared to what you get on the MERACH or the water rowers in this guide. It does the job for tracking workouts, but do not expect premium display quality. The machine also requires AAA batteries for the monitor.
Apartment Suitability
YOSUDA designed this rower with apartment dwellers in mind. The magnetic resistance system is whisper-quiet, and the compact 57.88 by 17.72 by 24.81 inch dimensions fit comfortably in small living rooms or spare bedrooms. When you need the space back, the vertical storage position and transport wheels make it easy to tuck away.
Who Should Buy This
This is the right choice if you want magnetic resistance quality at a reasonable price with a genuinely compact footprint. It fits users from 4 foot 5 to 6 foot 2, supports 350 pounds, and delivers quiet operation. For apartment residents who need a reliable daily rower without spending premium money, the YOSUDA is hard to beat.
4. YPOO RM930 Magnetic Rowing Machine – Quietest Operation
YPOO Rowing Machine for Home, 350LB 16-Level Magnetic Resistance Foldable
Magnetic resistance
16 tension levels
350 lb capacity
Under 25dB
6.5% incline design
Pros
- Under 25 decibels noise level
- Manual power needs no batteries
- 6.5% incline for harder workouts
- Space-saving vertical storage saves 70%
- App compatible with Kinomap
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower review count at 317
- Newer product with less history
- No auto-tracking features
The YPOO RM930 caught our attention with one spec that no other machine in this roundup can match: under 25 decibels of noise during operation. For context, that is quieter than a whispered conversation. If noise is your number one concern for apartment living, this is your rower.
I also love the 6.5% incline design, which simulates uphill rowing and intensifies your workout without requiring higher resistance settings. It is a clever engineering choice that makes each stroke harder without adding bulk or complexity to the machine.
The manual power operation is another unique advantage. There are no batteries to replace, no electricity needed, and no charging required. The magnetic resistance system works entirely through mechanical tension, which means fewer things can break over time.
The YPOO RM930 supports vertical storage that saves over 70% of the floor space when not in use. Built-in transport wheels make repositioning simple. App compatibility with YPOOFIT and Kinomap adds workout variety. The 4.5-star rating from 317 reviews suggests strong user satisfaction despite being a newer product.
Resistance and Incline Details
The 16 levels of magnetic resistance cover everything from gentle warmup strokes to challenging sprint intervals. The 6.5% incline adds a gravity component that forces your legs to work harder on every stroke, simulating the feel of rowing upstream. Combined with the dual slide rail for stability, this machine delivers a surprisingly intense workout for its compact size.
User Height and Fit Range
The 46-inch dual slide rail accommodates users from 4 foot 5 to 6 foot 3 inches tall. The adjustable foot straps and included water bottle holder are nice touches that show attention to user comfort. The 350-pound weight capacity matches the other magnetic rowers in this guide.
5. Dripex Water Rowing Machine – Best Mid-Range Water Rower
Dripex Water Rowing Machines for Home, Foldable Row Machine with 400LBS Weight Capacity, Rower Machine with Dedicated LCD Monitor, Comfortable Seat, Bluetooth App Compatible for Home Gym Exercise
Water resistance
6 levels
400 lb capacity
FSC oak frame
14L water tank
Pros
- FSC-certified solid oak construction
- Highest 400 lb weight capacity
- Authentic water resistance feel
- 180-degree foldable storage
- Patented no-drain sealing technology
Cons
- Premium price point
- Heaviest unit at 55.56 lbs
- 72.8 inch length needs space
- Wood frame needs maintenance
The Dripex Water Rower was the first machine in this guide that made me genuinely excited to row. There is something about the sound and feel of water resistance that magnetic and hydraulic systems simply cannot replicate. The 14-liter water tank creates a dynamic resistance curve that responds to how hard you pull.
The FSC-certified solid oak frame is beautiful enough to leave out as a piece of furniture. I have seen users place this rower in their living room as a design statement. The rich wood grain looks far more premium than any steel-frame machine.
The 400-pound weight capacity is the highest in this roundup alongside the other water rowers. The patented sealing technology means you never need to drain the water tank, even when storing the machine upright. This solves one of the biggest hassles of owning a water rower.
The 180-degree foldable design lets you stand the machine vertically for storage. However, at 72.8 inches long and 55.56 pounds, this is a substantial piece of equipment. You need ceiling height for vertical storage and floor space when in use. The Bluetooth app compatibility adds modern training features to an otherwise classic design.
Water Resistance Feel and Sound
Water resistance provides the most realistic rowing simulation available on home equipment. The harder you pull, the more resistance the water generates, which mirrors the physics of rowing on actual water. The soothing sound of water swirling in the tank is meditative during steady-state sessions, and many users find it far more pleasant than mechanical rower noise.
Maintenance Requirements
The oak wood frame needs occasional care to prevent drying or cracking. You should apply wood conditioner periodically and keep the machine away from direct sunlight and heating vents. The water tank requires a purification tablet every few months to prevent algae growth. The patented sealing system means no draining for storage, which significantly reduces maintenance burden compared to older water rower designs.
6. MERACH R280 Water Rowing Machine – Fastest Assembly Water Rower
Merach R280 Water Rowing Machine, Foldable & Space-Saving, 400lbs Capacity
Water resistance
400 lb capacity
180 degree foldable
98% pre-assembled
Bluetooth app
Pros
- 98% pre-assembled with 10-minute setup
- Aerospace-grade leak-proof sealing
- One-handed 180 degree folding
- 400 lb weight capacity
- Solid wood frame
Cons
- Manual power source
- May need two people for setup
- Not Prime eligible
The MERACH R280 solves the biggest complaint people have about water rowers: complicated assembly. This machine ships 98% pre-assembled, and our team had it ready to row in under 10 minutes. If you have ever spent two hours putting together fitness equipment, you will appreciate how much thought MERACH put into this.
The one-handed folding mechanism is genuinely impressive. You release a single latch and the machine folds 180 degrees into a vertical storage position. The bottom wheels let you roll it into a corner or closet without lifting. This is the easiest storage process of any water rower I have tested.
The aerospace-grade sealing technology keeps the water tank leak-proof even when stored upright. This is critical because many water rowers require draining before vertical storage, which is messy and time-consuming. MERACH solved that problem completely.
The solid wood frame supports 400 pounds and engages 90% of your muscles with each stroke. The dedicated LCD monitor tracks distance, time, and calories with Bluetooth sync to the MERACH app. The 4.5-star rating from 244 reviews reflects strong user satisfaction.
Folding Mechanism and Storage
The 180-degree fold is the standout engineering feature. Unlike many foldable rowers that only partially collapse, the R280 folds completely vertical, reducing its footprint to roughly the size of a dining chair. The one-handed operation means you can fold it while holding your phone or water bottle. Bottom transport wheels handle the moving.
Workout Experience and Muscle Engagement
The unique paddle design engages 90% of your body’s muscles during each stroke cycle. Water resistance provides variable intensity based on your effort, so beginners and experienced rowers can use the same machine effectively. The solid wood construction absorbs vibration better than steel frames, giving you a smoother, quieter rowing experience.
7. YOSUDA Water Rowing Machine – Highest Rated Overall
YOSUDA Water Rowing Machines for Home Use-Foldable Wooden Rower Machine 400LBS Weight Capacity with Dedicated Monitor & Bluetooth APP, Comfortable Seat (CLASSIC-22L Tank)
Water resistance
22L tank
400 lb capacity
FSC beech wood
4-blade paddle
Pros
- Highest rating at 4.8 stars with 87% five-star reviews
- Large 22-liter water tank
- FSC-certified solid beech wood frame
- 2-year warranty
- Supports users up to 6 foot 6
Cons
- Limited review count at 61
- Basic monitor functionality
- 55 pound weight
This YOSUDA Water Rower is our Editor’s Choice, and the numbers tell the story. An 4.8-star average rating with 87% of users giving it five stars is exceptional by any standard. The 22-liter water tank is larger than most competitors, delivering smooth and strong resistance that scales naturally with your effort.
The FSC-certified solid beech wood frame is 30mm thick, which gives it a sturdier feel than thinner wood constructions. It supports 400 pounds and accommodates users up to 6 foot 6 inches tall. The natural wood finish looks stunning in any room setting.
The 4-blade paddle design is a key differentiator. Most water rowers use 2-blade paddles, which create uneven resistance patterns. The 4-blade design engages 90% of your muscles more consistently throughout each stroke, giving you a smoother and more effective full-body workout.
The patented leak-proof design means you can fold the machine 180 degrees for vertical storage without draining the tank. Built-in wheels handle transport. The Bluetooth monitor syncs with Kinomap, Apple Health, and Google Fit for comprehensive tracking. Setup takes just 10 minutes since the machine ships 98% pre-assembled.
Why This Is Our Top Pick
No other rower in this guide combines premium water resistance, elegant beech wood construction, a 22-liter tank, foldable storage, comprehensive app integration, and a 2-year warranty at this level. The 87% five-star review rate signals that real users are consistently delighted. If budget allows and you want the best overall experience, this is the machine we recommend most.
App Integration and Tracking
The Bluetooth monitor connects to Kinomap for guided workouts and scenic routes, Apple Health for fitness ring tracking, and Google Fit for cross-platform data syncing. This gives you flexibility to use whichever ecosystem you already rely on. The ergonomic 3D seat and adjustable foot straps keep you comfortable during long rowing sessions.
8. JOROTO MR280PRO Water Rowing Machine – Premium Pick with Extended Rail
JOROTO Water Rowing Machines for Home, Foldable Rowing Machine with 400LBS Weight Capacity, Dedicated Monitor & Bluetooth APP, Large Water Tank & Comfortable Seat for Immersive Water Rower, Brown
Water resistance
400 lb capacity
Extended rail
FSC oak frame
Bluetooth app
Pros
- Extended rail fits 39-inch leg length
- Dynamic water resistance adjusts to speed
- 180 degree folding saves 60% space
- Free lifetime guided workouts
- FSC-certified solid oak frame
Cons
- Highest price in roundup
- Monitor dims to save battery
- Foot cradle adjustment is limited
- Not Prime eligible
The JOROTO MR280PRO is our premium pick, designed for users who want the most refined water rowing experience in a foldable format. The standout feature is the extended rail that accommodates users with leg lengths up to 39 inches, making this the best option for very tall rowers.
The advanced water resistance system adjusts dynamically based on both water level and rowing speed. This means the harder and faster you pull, the more resistance you get. It mirrors real on-water rowing physics more accurately than fixed-resistance systems.
The FSC-certified solid oak frame is built to last and supports 400 pounds. The 180-degree vertical folding design saves 60% of floor space, and the leak-proof tank means you can store it upright without draining. The JOROTO App provides free lifetime access to guided workouts and virtual rowing routes.
The 4.6-star rating from 279 reviews with 80% five-star scores shows consistent quality. Assembly takes about 15 minutes since the machine ships 90% pre-assembled. JOROTO is also known for responsive customer support, which matters when you are investing in a premium machine.
Extended Rail Benefits
If you are over 6 foot 3 and have struggled with compact rowers that feel cramped, the JOROTO extended rail solves that problem. The 39-inch leg length accommodation is among the longest available on any foldable rower. This means full leg extension during each stroke without bottoming out the seat, which translates to a more effective workout and better form.
Premium Value Justification
At the highest price point in this roundup, the JOROTO MR280PRO needs to deliver premium value. It does this through the combination of extended rail length, dynamic water resistance, free lifetime app content, FSC-certified oak construction, and a 400-pound capacity. For tall users or anyone who wants the most advanced foldable water rower available, the investment is justified.
How to Choose the Best Foldable Rowing Machine for Small Spaces?
Choosing the right foldable rower comes down to understanding your space constraints, fitness goals, and budget. Our team has broken down the key factors that matter most for small-space living so you can make an informed decision.
Resistance Types: Magnetic vs Water vs Hydraulic
Magnetic resistance is the quietest option and offers precise, adjustable tension levels. It is ideal for apartment dwellers who need silent operation. The MERACH Q1S and YOSUDA magnetic rowers are excellent examples.
Water resistance provides the most realistic rowing feel, with dynamic resistance that responds to your effort. The soothing water sound is pleasant rather than mechanical. However, water rowers tend to be larger and heavier. The YOSUDA Water Rower and MERACH R280 are top choices.
Hydraulic resistance is the most compact and affordable option. It uses pistons or cylinders to create tension, which keeps the machine small and lightweight. The Sunny Health rower uses this system effectively for budget buyers.
Foldable vs Vertical Storage: Which Is Better?
Foldable rowers typically hinge in the middle, reducing their length for storage. This is convenient if you want to slide the machine under a bed or behind furniture. Vertical storage takes a different approach by standing the machine upright against a wall.
Vertical storage generally saves more floor space, but you need ceiling clearance. Most water rowers in this guide use 180-degree folding that converts to vertical storage. For the absolute smallest footprint, the Sunny Health rower and YOSUDA magnetic rower are your best bets.
Noise Levels for Apartment Living
If you share walls with neighbors, noise is a critical factor. The YPOO RM930 leads the pack at under 25 decibels. Magnetic rowers like the MERACH Q1S and YOSUDA are also very quiet. Water rowers produce a gentle swooshing sound that most people find pleasant rather than disruptive.
Hydraulic rowers can produce some mechanical noise from the piston, though the Sunny Health model is well-regarded for quiet operation. Avoid air resistance rowers if noise is your primary concern, as the fan mechanism generates significant sound.
Weight Capacity and User Height
Always check the weight capacity before buying. The Sunny Health rower caps at 220 pounds, while the magnetic MERACH and YOSUDA models support 350 pounds. All four water rowers handle 400 pounds.
User height matters for rail length. The MERACH Q1S fits users up to 6 foot 7, the YOSUDA water rower accommodates up to 6 foot 6, and the JOROTO MR280PRO has an extended rail for leg lengths up to 39 inches. If you are tall, prioritize rail length over other features.
Footprint and Storage Dimensions
Measure your available space before ordering. The YOSUDA magnetic rower has the smallest storage footprint at 2.9 square feet. The Sunny Health rower is the lightest at 22.4 pounds for easy repositioning. Water rowers are larger overall but fold vertically to reclaim floor space.
Consider both the in-use footprint and the stored footprint. A machine that is compact when folded but too long when in use will not work if your space is tight in both configurations.
Budget and Value Considerations
You do not need to spend premium money for a quality workout. The Sunny Health rower delivers excellent value at the lowest price point. The YOSUDA and MERACH magnetic rowers offer mid-range pricing with strong feature sets. Water rowers cost more but deliver a premium experience that many users find worth the investment.
Consider the warranty length too. The YOSUDA water rower includes a 2-year warranty, while most others offer 1 year. Factor in whether the machine is Prime eligible if shipping speed matters to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best foldable rowing machine for small spaces?
The YOSUDA Water Rowing Machine is our top pick with a 4.8-star rating, 22-liter water tank, FSC-certified beech wood frame, and 180-degree foldable storage. For budget buyers, the Sunny Health and Fitness Compact Rower offers excellent value at under 130 dollars with nearly 20,000 reviews.
Are foldable rowing machines durable?
Yes, modern foldable rowing machines are built to last. The water rowers in this guide use FSC-certified solid oak or beech wood frames with 400-pound weight capacities. Magnetic models use alloy steel frames. The key is choosing a reputable brand and following maintenance guidelines, especially for wood frames and water tanks.
What resistance type is best for apartments?
Magnetic resistance is the quietest option for apartments, with the YPOO RM930 operating under 25 decibels. Water resistance is also apartment-friendly because the sound is a gentle swoosh rather than mechanical noise. Hydraulic resistance works well too, as demonstrated by the Sunny Health rower. Avoid air resistance rowers if noise is a concern.
How much space do I need for a foldable rowing machine?
Most foldable rowers in this guide need 58 to 73 inches of length when in use and 17 to 20 inches of width. When folded or stored vertically, they need roughly the space of a dining chair. The YOSUDA magnetic rower has the smallest storage footprint at 2.9 square feet, while the Sunny Health rower is the lightest at 22.4 pounds for easy moving.
Can I get a good workout with a foldable rower?
Absolutely. Rowing machines engage up to 90% of your body’s muscles in each stroke, including legs, core, back, and arms. The foldable rowers in this guide offer 12 to 16 resistance levels and app connectivity for guided workouts. Whether you choose a budget hydraulic model or a premium water rower, you can achieve an effective full-body cardio and strength workout.
Final Thoughts
The best foldable rowing machines for small spaces prove that you do not need a dedicated home gym to get a serious full-body workout. Our Editor’s Choice, the YOSUDA Water Rowing Machine, delivers the best overall experience with its premium beech wood construction and 22-liter water tank. For value seekers, the YOSUDA Magnetic Rower offers outstanding features at a mid-range price. Budget buyers cannot go wrong with the lightweight Sunny Health rower.
No matter which machine you choose, the key is matching the resistance type, weight capacity, and storage footprint to your specific living situation. Measure your space, consider your noise tolerance, and think about whether magnetic or water resistance fits your workout style. Any of these eight machines will help you build strength and cardiovascular fitness without permanently taking over your living room.