Concept2 RowErg (Model D)

The RowErg's flywheel produces a rhythmic whooshing sound that's louder than a magnetic rower but quieter than a treadmill at running speed. In our testing, it was clearly audible through interior walls and produced some vibration through the floor, particularly on wooden or thin concrete floors. For comparison, we measured it at approximately 68–72 dB at seat level during steady rowing — similar to a normal conversation but with a distinctive mechanical quality that travels further than speech.

For ground-floor apartments with downstairs neighbours, we'd recommend a thick rubber mat under the machine (helps dampen floor vibration) and using it between 8am and 8pm. For upper-floor apartments with downstairs neighbours, it's a genuine consideration — the WaterRower produces only the sound of water moving, which is significantly quieter. If noise isn't a hard constraint, the RowErg's performance advantage is substantial enough that we'd always choose it first.

The RowErg is excellent for beginners, and the common perception that it's only for elite athletes is a misconception. The machine scales perfectly with effort — row gently at a 3:00/500m split and it gives you gentle resistance; row hard at 1:30/500m and it gives you maximum resistance. There's no wrong pace or resistance level, no minimum fitness requirement, and the PM5 gives you immediate feedback that helps beginners develop good pacing habits from the first session.

The most important thing for a beginner to learn is rowing technique before intensity. Concept2 offers free video resources at concept2.com/training, and the ErgData app includes guided workouts. The biggest risk for new rowers isn't the machine — it's pulling too hard with the arms before driving with the legs, which puts unnecessary strain on the lower back. Taking 20 minutes to learn the sequence (legs → body → arms, then arms → body → legs in reverse on the recovery) will make every subsequent session significantly better.

The only difference between the Model D ($900) and the Model E ($1,100) is the seat height: 14 inches on the Model D vs 20 inches on the Model E. The flywheel, PM5 monitor, chain, handle, footrests, and every other component are identical. Performance is identical.

Buy the Model E if: you have limited knee or hip mobility, you're recovering from a lower-body injury, or you simply find it difficult to get up from a low seat. The extra 6 inches makes a meaningful difference for people with mobility considerations. Buy the Model D if: neither of those applies to you and you want the lower upfront cost. For most buyers under 60 without mobility concerns, the Model D is the right choice. You can see both side by side at concept2.com/rowing-machines.

Buy the Concept2 RowErg if: performance data matters to you, you want to track real metrics (split time, watts) that are comparable to other rowers worldwide, you don't want a monthly subscription, or you want equipment that will last 20+ years. At $900 with no ongoing cost vs $1,495 + $44/month, the Concept2 costs less in the first year and far less over any multi-year horizon.

Buy the Hydrow Wave if: you're motivated by live and on-demand coach-led classes, you want an immersive screen experience that makes solo rowing feel more engaging, and the subscription cost isn't a barrier. The Hydrow's magnetic resistance is also quieter, which matters in apartments or shared spaces. For users who genuinely know they'll row more often with a coached class than without one, the content investment can be worthwhile — but for anyone who will use the machine for performance training, interval work, or CrossFit-style conditioning, the Concept2 is the clear choice. Try the used erg board if $900 is a stretch — a good used RowErg at $650 is still a better machine than any connected rower at any price.