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If you are looking to buy one of the best rowers, you’ve probably noticed there are two sought-after models among rowing enthusiasts: the Concept2 and the WaterRower. The Concept2 is a more traditional rower that is air-driven and so popular you can actually find it in most local gyms. On the other hand, the WaterRower is a more luxury rower that uses water resistance and is also aesthetically appealing, and would look great in any gym.
Each of these rowing machines has its own pros and cons. The WaterRower is a beautiful machine with its water tank and polished wood. On the other hand, Concept2 is a favorite with many rowers largely due to its advanced technology and magnetic resistance. Each of these rowing machines has something different to offer and a unique set of advantages for any rowing enthusiast. However, the main question here is what does each machine has to offer and which one is the best?
Let’s put the two rowing machines head to head for performance, design, price, and features:
The WaterRower has an impellers’ motion through the water tank that creates peaceful sounds similar to rowing outdoors on the water. It is very beautiful with all exposed glass and wood, creating an art installation that would be a great addition to any home or commercial gym.
| NAME | PRODUCT PREVIEW | Check PRICE |
|---|---|---|
| Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 |  |  |
| TOPIOM Water Rowing Machine |  | |
| SNODE Water Rowing Machine |  | |
| WaterRower Club Rowing Machine |  | |
The Concept2 model on the other hand is more accessible compared to the WaterRower owing to its disassembly mechanism which allows for quick and easy storage. It is most commonly used in CrossFit gyms.
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Design
It is worth noting that the Concept2 rowing machine is available in 3 different variants (Dynamic, Model E, and Model D), but the WaterRower comes in one standard model. Concept2 rowing machine’s staggered offering helps cover a wide range of user accessibility. However, this review article will focus on Model D, the standard model.
Although Concept2’s design might seem rather dull compared to the WaterRower, Concept2 has been in the industry for more than 40 years and the company has refined the art of making good quality machines. This is the main reason why many gyms prefer Concept2 Model D rowing machine as it is known for their high-quality, reliable design.
Concept 2 Rowing Machine:
Concept2 measures 61 x 132 cm and is designed to fit into a wide range of living areas comfortably.
Moreover, if space is a concern, it is equipped with a frame lock mechanism allowing for easy disassembly and storage. Just like most high-quality gym equipment nowadays, Concept2 has taken home storage into consideration.
When it comes to storage and design, the WaterRower does not offer much versatility. Moreover, it measures 51 x 56.5 x 209 cm and it cannot be dismantled. However, The WaterRower rowing machine is aesthetically appealing and a stunning piece of gym equipment, which makes up for its bulkiness. It is crafted from polished sustainable hardwood to create a beautiful machine that anyone will admire and enjoy using.
When it comes to design, it’s mainly a matter of preference and you’ll have to decide which machine suits your personal preference.
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Features and performance
The Concept2 rowing machine is a fan rower that uses air to generate its resistance. Although this creates an authentic and smooth rowing experience, it causes some noise while in use especially when you’re going for it really hard. If you are looking for a machine that you’ll use regularly and you live in a shared house or with your family, then this rower might not be for you mainly because of the considerable amount of noise generated by the fan.
The Concept2 rower is great for performance monitoring because it comes with the PM5 tracking device which is extremely easy to operate. The PM5 displays and records your speed, watts, calories burnt, distance covered, and pace as soon as you start rowing. It also comes with wireless connectivity allowing you to sync the data collected by the PM5 up to heart rate monitors and the Concept2 ErgData App. This feature has the edge over the equivalent offering by WaterRower.
WaterRower Club Rowing Machine:
Although the WaterRower comes with an A1 monitor that monitors workouts by measuring speed, stroke rate, intensity, and distance, it does not record the heart rate.
However, it comes with the workout programs feature which can be used to set exercises for specific lengths of time.
When it comes to resistance, Concept2 features numbered fan cages so you can use the damper lever to adjust the resistance level. It features 10 resistance levels that determine the amount of air drawn into the cages on each rowing stroke. A higher damper setting means that the flywheel draws more air, creating more resistance.
Therefore, you’ll have to put in more work and increase the intensity of your workout. The damper system works effortlessly, allowing you to quickly adjust the difficulty of your rowing sessions.
On the other hand, the WaterRower uses water to create resistance. As a result, it provides a smooth operation that closely mimics the feeling of rowing on water. This is an ideal feature for people that like outdoor rowing and would like to replicate the same experience at home when they are unable to row outdoors.
WaterRower Vs Concept 2
Unlike the Concept2 rower, the WaterRower does not come with customizable resistance. The resistance increases as you increase the intensity of your workout. However, most people prefer to have control over the intensity of their workouts.
In terms of customizable resistance, tech, and other features, Concept2 has an edge over the WaterRower.
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Price
There isn’t much difference between the two when it comes to price. These rowers are pretty much in the same range, so it all boils down to preference.
The bottom line
Despite being in the same price range, Concept2 and the WaterRower differ in many different aspects. While the former is Fan based (uses fans for resistance), the latter is a water-driven machine that relies on paddles and a water drum for a quieter, more natural rowing experience.
Concept2 features better tech mainly in the form of easily customizable resistance and a workout monitor. The WaterRower on the other hand offers an all-round workout experience, is aesthetically appealing, and has a decent price tag.
