You don’t have to research indoor rowing much before you come across the notorious Concept2 RowErg, the widely proclaimed king of the rowers. Yet, its fatal flaw—being super loud—scares many exercisers away. So, allow me to introduce you to the WaterRower, a worthy contender against the RowErg.
There are definite advantages and disadvantages to each of these rowing machines. I love them both after meters and meters of rowing on them. However, I am not blind to their shortcomings and know what is good for one rowing athlete won’t be good for another.
Let me help you decide between the bold Concept2 RowErg and the elegant WaterRower. Read the rest of this rowing comparison for the answer to your debate.
WaterRower vs. Concept2 RowErg Rowing Machine Comparison
Concept2 RowErg Pros and Cons
- This tried and true rower is found in homes and garage gyms and is proven to last.
- The flywheel offers unlimited resistance to row against and a damper to change the feel of the stroke.
- This rower has standard legs and tall leg options in case you need a taller rower that is easier to get on and off.
- The PM5 monitor tracks your metrics and has custom workouts and Bluetooth connectivity.
- The noise from the flywheel might be too excessive for some home spaces.
- The seat might be too narrow for some users.
WaterRower: Bottom Line
WaterRower Pros and Cons
- The wood frame looks elegant in any home space—it fits in with the furniture.
- The water makes a sloshing sound that is soothing to most people.
- The weight capacity is massive, so most people can use this rower.
- The flywheel feels most similar to rowing on water.
- The pedals and seat might be too narrow for larger users.
- The low-to-the-ground design is harder to get on and off.
WaterRower vs. Concept2 RowErg Rowing Machines
Check out the comparison chart below to see how the WaterRower and Concept2 RowErg compare to other models we have tested.
 Concept2 RowErg |  Ergatta |  AssaultRower Pro |  Rogue Echo Rower |  Ergatta Lite | |
| Price (MSRP) | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star Rating | |||||
| Bottom Line | The Concept2 is regarded as the best rower with the most accurate monitor and competition-level performance. | The Ergatta Rower makes rowing fun with aesthetic games and competitions, while the wooden frame and water tank are nicely made and wonderful to look at. | This high-quality rower is well-priced, comfortable, and durable. | This folding air rower from Rogue is for homes, garages, commercial gyms, and competitions | The Ergatta Lite has a wooden frame and a nice touchscreen display that showcases the gamified Ergatta training content and City Row training classes. |
| Awards Earned | |||||
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
| Product | Concept2 RowErg | Ergatta | AssaultRower Pro | Rogue Echo Rower | Ergatta Lite |
| Workout Experience | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
| Specs / Features | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 8 |
| Dimensions / Storability | 8 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 |
| On-Board Workouts & Apps | 6 | 8 | 5 | 6 | 8 |
| Build Quality | 10 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 |
| Overall Score | 92 | 88 | 85 | 88 | 85 |
| # of Onboard Workouts | 12 | 1 | 8 | 10 | 1 |
| Paid Programming - Cost | N/A | $28/month | N/A | N/A | $29/month |
| Netflix / 3rd Party Apps | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Display | PM5 Console | 17.3” touchscreen | Battery-powered digital console | 4.7” backlit LCD | 17.3" Full HD 1920x1080 |
| Dimensions (In Use) | 96” L x 24” W x 14” H | 86” x 23” x 40” | 92” L x 22” W x 45” H | 99” L x 26” W | 82" x 23" x 38" |
| Pedal Type | |||||
| Storage | Vertical, horizontal, in two pieces | Horizontal, vertical | Upright | Foldable, vertical, horizontal | Vertical and horizontal |
| Rower Weight | 57 lbs | 105 lbs (with water) | 109 lbs | 72.6 lbs | 72 lbs (with water) |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lbs | 500 lbs | 350 lbs | 500 lbs | 320 lbs |
| Resistance Type | Air | water | air | Air | water |
| Max Resistance | Unlimited | unlimited | unlimited | Unlimited | unlimited |
| Height Limit | 38” (inseam) | 40” (inseam) | N/A | 38” Inseam | 6'4" or 38" (inseam) |
| Warranty | 5 years on frame; 2 years on moving parts and console | 5-year frame, 3-year parts, 1-year tablet | 7-year frame, 3-year non-wear parts | 5-year frame, 2-year moving parts & monitor | 5-year frame, 3-year components, 1-year touchscreen |
| Additional Features | 10-level damper, chain drive, device holder | Wooden frame, Bluetooth, live races | Versatile handle, locking seat, rear transport handle | Quick-release foot straps, turf tires, 10-level damper | Oak frame, dual rails, large water tank |
Dimensions/Storability
Both rowers take up around the same space, but the Concept2 is slightly longer. Rowing machines, in general, require a significant amount of floor space. These rowers are convenient for home use because they can be stored upright, which helps them take up less space when you use them. The Concept2 can also be split into two pieces for easier transportation.
WaterRower
- Footprint: 84″ x 21″ W 22″ H
- Pedals: 12″ L
- Dual Rail: 40″ L x 6″ H
- Seat: 12″ W x 8″ D x 12″ H
- Belt Drive: 20″ from where the belt extends from the flywheel
Concept2 RowErg
- Footprint: 96″ L x 24″ W x 14″ H
- Pedals: 12″ L
- Monorail: 54″ L x 11″ H
- Seat: 12″ W x 10″ D x 14″ H
- Belt Drive: 24″ from where the chain extends from the flywheel
Onboard Workouts & Apps
As far as content is concerned, WaterRower and Concept2 offer onboard workouts that are built into their consoles. The Concept2 PM5 monitor has more functionality overall, though.
WaterRower Content
The WaterRower has an S4 Performance Monitor. It is battery-powered, so it turns on when you start rowing. Metrics like your strokes per minute, duration, calories, watts, and distance are displayed on the LCD screen.
The workout programs let you choose different goals for your workout. For example, you can set specific distance or duration goals. For basic tracking and workout options, the S4 monitor does just fine.
If you want a touchscreen with gaming content on the WaterRower, check out the Ergatta. As mentioned above, the Ergatta is the WaterRower with an attached touchscreen that offers Ergatta’s subscription content.
Concept2 Content
The PM5 is a battery-powered monitor with more capabilities than most. When rowing, your time, strokes per minute, calories, duration, and more are displayed. You can even see a chart for your watts and power through every stroke. The PM5 also has games and preprogrammed workout settings.
There is the option to set a pace goal and a pace boat will appear below you that you have to keep up with.
The PM5 is also Bluetooth-enabled to connect to apps like ErgData to track more of your metrics. The PM5 Monitor is known for being so accurate that you can compete against others virtually with the Concept2 RowErg to see how your rowing compares. As far as battery-powered monitors on other rowers, the PM5 is certainly one of the best.
WaterRower vs. Concept2 Console
While both consoles have battery-powered LCD screens, their functionality and capabilities vary. The PM5 is our top choice. Neither has a place to hold your water bottle, but the Concept2 RowErg has a clip for your phone, which is helpful, especially if you connect a compatible app to the PM5 Monitor. The WaterRower doesn’t offer anywhere to place your phone or tablet.
Build Quality
Now, let’s get into the construction and build quality of the WaterRower and Concept2 RowErg. What makes these two rowers impressive is their high weight capacities—they both handle up to 500 lbs! Users of most sizes should be able to use either rower without an issue. For specific preferences, though, let’s dive into more specifics and where these two machines differ.
WaterRower Vs Concept2 Frame
As you’ve probably noticed, the WaterRower and Concept2 RowErg look completely different. That is in part because their frames are made of different materials: WaterRower is made of wood, and Concept2 is made of steel and aluminum.
The Concept2 RowErg is the lighter rower of the two.
The WaterRower’s wood frame resonates well in most homes.
While both are durable, the WaterRower is more aesthetically pleasing. Anyone who walks into our studio asks about it. It will coordinate well with your furniture, whether stored upright or in use.
The Concept2 RowErg has a more rugged design and looks like a piece of fitness equipment. In a gym setting – whether in your house, garage, or training facility, the Concept2 fits in with other equipment.
Another difference in the frame is the railing height. The WaterRower has a dual rail that is low to the ground, making it more challenging for some to get on and off. The Concept2 has a higher monorail and seat, so it’s easier to get on and off of. You can also purchase the RowErg with tall legs if you have limited mobility and don’t want to sit close to the floor while rowing.
WaterRower vs. Concept2 Footboard & Foot Stretchers
The footboards are another aspect where these rowers differ. We prefer the Concept2 footboards and pedals.
They’re mounted on either side of the monorail on the Concept2.
On the WaterRower, the footboard is one piece that the pedals are attached to.
The WaterRower’s pedals are closer together because of this. The Concept2 is more comfortable because you have some breathing room between the pedals and your feet.
You might feel a little cramped on the WaterRower if you’re a larger person. The pedals are also around the same level as the seat on the WaterRower, which can cause some users to feel a little more discomfort in their backs when they’re in the catch, especially if they have back problems already.
It’s important to remember that rowing is a technical exercise, and proper form is required for any rower to help prevent injuries.
On both rowers, the pedals adjust to any shoe size. You also have some room to determine the best placement for the strap on your feet. I prefer Velcro, but the straps on both machines are easy enough to use. The WaterRower uses a singular strap that can shift from side to side; however, your feet will stay in place as you row.
WaterRower vs. Concept2 Handle
The WaterRower has a textured handle that gives a good grip.
It is molded to support specific hand positioning.
The Concept2’s handle is round and more functional because of the finger webbing. You can place your fingers in between the slats for single-arm rowing.
This is nice to have for different training options and you can change your grip a little bit with the rounded handle.
This is nice to have for different training options and you can change your grip a little bit with the rounded handle.
While we prefer rounded handles, it is completely up to personal preference. Both handles will do what you want them to, which is row.
WaterRower vs. Concept2 Seat
Rowers generally don’t have the most comfortable seats. But hey, you’re working out and not lounging on them—that’s what your couch is for.
Both seats are contoured to support your positioning in the finish. They have padding, so they don’t feel terrible, but as I said, this isn’t the couch you’re sitting on. The WaterRower’s seat is smaller, so if you have extra junk in your trunk, you might prefer the Concept2. However, the differences aren’t that noticeable. In the worst case, you could pad it for more cushion.
WaterRower vs. Concept2 Flywheel
The flywheel is where you get resistance to row against. The Concept2’s flywheel is a fan with blades that move and push against the air as you row, while the WaterRower has a water tank filled with paddles that move against water.
A belt or chain connects the flywheel to the handle. The WaterRower uses a belt, and the Concept2 has a chain drive system. When rowing on the Concept2 RowErg, you hear and feel the grinding of the chain with every stroke. In comparison, the belt drive system is quieter.
The belt on the WaterRower doesn’t always stay on its track, though. Ours is fraying a little bit on the sides from use. Both drive systems provide plenty of tension throughout your stroke. We don’t experience any slack while in the finish and recovery, as we do on other models, like some magnetic rowers.
WaterRower vs. Concept2 Resistance
The WaterRower uses water resistance, and the Concept2 uses air. Neither type of resistance is better than the other; it depends on your preference. The more intense you row with either machine, the more resistance you’ll feel.
You have more options for changing the feel of the stroke and amount of tension with the adjustable damper on the side of the Concept2’s flywheel. The damper adjusts how much or little air is let into the fan.
There are 10 settings, 1 allows the least amount of air and feels easier, while 10 lets in the most amount of air, and feels the most challenging.
In order to change the resistance on the WaterRower, you have to change the amount of water that is in the tank.
While I have to unstrap and stand up to change the damper setting on the C2, adjusting the water level is more involved.
On either rowing machine, there aren’t specific resistance levels displayed on the console. You can see the damper setting on the PM5 monitor, but not while you’re rowing. If certain resistance levels are something you like to track, a magnetic rower like this one might be a better option.
The resistance and noise output are big factors to consider when determining which rower is best for you.
The water resistance on the WaterRower feels more similar to rowing outdoors.
The water makes a sloshing noise in the tank that most people like and find relaxing. The WaterRower might be a better option if you’re in a shared space where noise is a factor. The Concept2 RowErg is much louder in comparison. The air and chain create more sound, so the RowErg is commonly found in garage gyms.
However, if noise isn’t a factor inside your home, the Concept2 would be a great addition.
Warranty
Both brands offer similar warranties for these rowers. Both come with a 5-year frame warranty. Concept2 includes a 2-year parts warranty, while WaterRower includes a 3-year parts warranty.
Should You Buy The WaterRower or Concept2 RowErg?
Both rowers are excellent, well-made cardio machines. They are lightweight, can be stored upright, and are easy to move around.
The Concept2 RowErg is best for garage gyms and homes where noise isn’t a factor. It’s loud, but the air resistance offers unlimited tension to pull against. You can change how much resistance you feel with the damper and your intensity. Due to its reliability, the PM5 console is also used in competitions and CrossFit.
The WaterRower is made of wood. It will look good in any home—it’s beautiful. This rower uses water resistance, so the stroke sounds and feels more similar to outdoor rowing. The resistance feels more challenging the harder you work. WaterRower is considered the top rower with water resistance on the market.
WaterRower vs. Concept2 RowErg Q&A / FAQ
Are water rowers as good as the Concept2 RowErg?
The Concept2 RowErg sets the bar for other rowing machines with its super-accurate PM5 console and 10-level fan damper. Water rowers are great, but it is harder to ensure their accuracy due to their reliance on water volume and tank size. Additionally, you cannot easily change the drag factor.
Which is better, an air rower or a WaterRower?
Air rowers are limited only by their fan size and whether or not they include a damper to change the drag factor. They are also loud and may not be suitable for all spaces. WaterRowers sound more pleasant with the nice whoosh of the water. WaterRowers are high-quality and provide powerful resistance suitable for all fitness levels.
What brand of water rower does Orangetheory use?
Orangetheory Fitness uses the WaterRower M1 HiRise Rowing Machine. This water rower has a metal frame, a higher seat, and commercial-grade construction.
Why are water rowers so expensive?
Water rowers are expensive because they are high-quality machines. The tanks are leak-resistant, and many have elegant wooden frames.
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