Concept2 RowErg vs WaterRower

Two different ideas of a rowing machine

The Concept2 RowErg uses an air flywheel: a fan inside a housing at the front. A chain from the handle spins the fan, and a damper lever from 1 to 10 controls how much air reaches it. The frame is aluminium and steel, with a long monorail for the seat. It is the rower you will find in most gyms, rowing clubs and indoor rowing events, which is a big part of its appeal.

The WaterRower uses a water flywheel: paddles turning inside a sealed tank. A strap from the handle turns the paddles, and there is no damper. The overall heaviness is set by how much water is in the tank. Most WaterRower models have frames made from solid wood, such as ash, cherry, oak or walnut, though the range also includes other finishes. Our WaterRower models compared page explains the differences between the main versions.

Stroke feel and sound

The Concept2 picks up quickly at the catch and feels lively. With the damper low, it feels like a light, fast boat; with it high, it feels heavier and the flywheel slows sooner between strokes. Many rowers sit around the middle of the range. Our guide to Concept2 damper settings explains how the setting relates to drag factor. The fan makes a whirring sound that rises with effort and pushes out a draught.

The WaterRower has a short soft moment at the catch while the water starts moving, then a firm, smooth pull. Resistance rises with stroke speed, so there is nothing to set during a session. The sound is a rhythmic swish of water, which many people find calmer than fan noise, and there is no draught. Neither is silent, so a firm mat is worth having on upper floors.

Monitor, data and apps

The Concept2 comes with the PM5 performance monitor. It shows pace per 500 m, watts, stroke rate, distance and time, and can store workouts. It connects to apps and heart rate straps, and results can be uploaded to the free Concept2 Logbook. Because so many people use the same machine, pace and watts figures are widely comparable. Watts follow Concept2's published formula: watts = 2.80 / pace cubed, with pace in seconds per metre, so 2:00 /500 m is about 203 W. Try our split and watts converter, and see how to use the Concept2 Logbook.

Many WaterRower models come with the S4 performance monitor, which shows stroke rate, distance, time and an intensity or pace figure, and Bluetooth versions connect to the WaterRower app and some third-party apps. The exact features depend on the model and monitor version, so check the maker's support pages. Distance and pace are calculated in WaterRower's own way, so they will not match a Concept2 figure for figure.

Size, storage and upkeep

Both are long machines. Concept2 lists the RowErg footprint as roughly 2.4 m by 0.6 m, and the WaterRower is a little shorter at around 2.1 m in most versions. Always check the current spec sheet for the exact model, and allow space behind the seat. Our guide to rowing machine dimensions covers clearances.

For storage, the Concept2 separates into two pieces without tools and can also stand on end. The WaterRower stands upright on end on its front wheels, which is one of its best-known features. Upkeep differs: the Concept2 needs the fan cage dusted and the chain wiped and oiled as the manual describes, while the WaterRower tank needs purification tablets from time to time. See our tank filling and cleaning guide.

Note:Both rowers are long and heavy to tip upright, and a WaterRower with a full tank is especially weighty. Lift with care, ask for help if unsure, and follow the maker's instructions for standing the machine on end.

Side-by-side summary

This table sums up widely published features of each brand's main home rower. Versions and monitors change over time, so treat it as a starting point and check the maker's site.

Resale and which to choose

Both brands have a good reputation for build quality and parts availability, and both tend to hold their value on the second-hand market better than many budget rowers. Concept2 machines are very common second hand because of gym and club use. If you buy used, check the chain or strap, seat rollers, monitor and, for a WaterRower, the tank for cracks or cloudy water.

Choose the Concept2 RowErg if you want numbers that match gyms and clubs, a damper to tune the feel, and storage in two halves. Choose the WaterRower if the rower will live in a living space, you prefer the sound of water to a fan, and you like the wooden frame. Our best rowing machine UK and best water rowing machine guides cover the wider market.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Concept2 or WaterRower quieter? The WaterRower is usually quieter and has no draught. The Concept2 fan gets louder as you pull harder.

Can a WaterRower show watts like a Concept2? Some WaterRower monitors and apps show a power or intensity figure, but it is calculated differently. Check your monitor's manual or the maker's support pages for what yours displays.

Which takes less floor space? The WaterRower is usually a little shorter, and both can stand on end. The Concept2 can also split into two pieces. Check each maker's current dimensions.

Do I need to change the water in a WaterRower? Usually not often. Most owners add purification tablets on the schedule in the manual and keep the tank out of direct sunlight.