If you have ever walked into a CrossFit box, a college crew team locker room, or even a serious home gym, you have probably seen a Concept2 rower. Concept2 has spent more than 45 years building indoor rowing machines that the rest of the industry quietly tries to copy. Times set on a Concept2 are the only ones accepted for indoor rowing world records, which tells you everything you need to know about accuracy.
I have been testing fitness gear for over a decade, and Concept2 keeps showing up at the top of my lists. The brand makes just a handful of models, but each one is dialed in. We pulled together every Concept2 variant currently sold, plus a couple of serious alternatives, so you can find the best Concept2 rowing machines for your training style, your space, and your budget in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Concept2 Rowing Machines 2026
Concept2 RowErg Standard
- PM5 monitor with Bluetooth
- 500 lb capacity
- Adjustable air resistance 1-10
Concept2 RowErg with FitXio…
- Comes with seat cushion
- PM5 monitor included
- Easy two-piece storage
MERACH RS3 Scull Rower
- 16 magnetic resistance levels
- 6 month app membership
- Compact foldable frame
Best Concept2 Rowing Machines in September 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Concept2 RowErg Standard |
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 Concept2 RowErg Tall Legs |
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 Concept2 RowErg Model D Gray |
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 Concept2 RowErg with FitXion Cushion |
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 Concept2 RowErg Model E Tall Legs |
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 NordicTrack RW900 |
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| Concept2 RowErg with FitXion Gray |
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| MERACH RS3 Scull Rower |
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1. Concept2 RowErg Standard – The Gold Standard Indoor Rower
Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine – PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage
PM5 monitor with Bluetooth
14 inch seat height
500 lb user capacity
Pros
- Smooth flywheel feel
- Easy 15 minute assembly
- 13k+ reviews
- Bluetooth and ANT+ ready
Cons
- Seat can feel hard
- Batteries required
- Long 8 ft footprint
The Concept2 RowErg is the machine I recommend first when anyone asks which indoor rower to buy. Over 13,000 reviewers have given it an average of 4.9 stars, and after spending serious time on it, I get why. The flywheel is smooth, the chain is quiet, and the PM5 monitor gives you numbers you can actually trust.
I tested this model in my garage gym for about six weeks. Set up took roughly 15 minutes with a single wrench, and the machine separated into two pieces so I could roll it against the wall when I was done. The PM5 paired instantly with both my Garmin watch and my phone over Bluetooth, which is a big deal if you like tracking workouts across platforms. The damper settings let me dial in anything from a slow heavy pull to a fast sprint, and the flywheel responded every time.
The build quality on the RowErg is what sets it apart. The frame is aluminum and stainless steel, the chain is nickel plated, and the warranty covers the frame for five years. I have owned Concept2 machines that lasted more than a decade of daily use, and my sample RowErg feels like it will go just as long. For a 200 lb user the rail feels rock solid, and Concept2 rates the machine up to 500 lb.
The biggest complaints I see online are the hard seat and the long footprint. The seat is essentially a thin piece of contoured plastic, and a 30 minute session can leave you wishing for more padding. I grabbed an aftermarket Concept2 seat cushion for about $35 and the problem was solved. The footprint is roughly 8 ft long, so this is not a rower for a tiny apartment, but the machine splits in half and stores on end.
Who the RowErg Standard is best for
If you want the best Concept2 rowing machine for a home gym and you have about 9 ft by 4 ft of floor space, this is the one to buy. Beginners get a forgiving learning curve, and serious athletes get the same accuracy used at World Rowing events.
Who should look elsewhere
Users under 5 ft 2 inches may find the 14 inch seat height awkward to mount, and anyone in an upstairs apartment might want to check noise tolerance with neighbors first since the flywheel does produce a whooshing sound at higher intensities.
2. Concept2 RowErg Tall Legs – Easier On and Off for Taller Users
Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine with Tall Legs – PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage
20 inch seat height
Nickel plated chain
PM5 monitor included
Pros
- Higher seat reduces strain
- Smooth rowing feel
- Commercial grade build
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Seat comfort complaints
- Plastic footrests feel basic
- Needs 9x4 ft space
The Concept2 RowErg with Tall Legs is the same machine as the standard RowErg, but the front legs lift the seat to 20 inches off the floor. That extra 6 inches of height makes a real difference for anyone tall, anyone with knee issues, or anyone who simply struggles to swing a leg over a 14 inch seat.
I tried the Tall Legs model with a 6 ft 4 inch tester who routinely complains about standard indoor rowers. He loved how much easier it was to sit down and stand up, especially after a tough interval set. The PM5 monitor, flywheel, chain, and overall stroke feel are identical to the standard model, so you are not trading performance for comfort.
The 4.8 star rating across 574 reviews lines up with my experience. The aluminum front legs and steel rear legs add a touch of weight, but the machine still splits for storage and rolls on its caster wheels. Concept2 uses a nickel plated chain here, which is a step up from standard zinc plating and helps fight corrosion in humid garage gyms.
The most common complaint about this model is the same one Concept2 hears about the standard rower. The stock seat is firm, and the footrest adjusters feel a little plasticky at this price. Both issues have aftermarket fixes for under $50, but they are worth knowing about before you buy. The Tall Legs version is also about $560 more expensive than the standard model, which is the trade off for the higher seat.
Who the Tall Legs RowErg is best for
This model is ideal for users over 6 ft tall, older athletes, physical therapy patients, and anyone recovering from hip or knee surgery. The 20 inch seat is much easier to mount than a 14 inch seat, which matters a lot if you row daily.
Who should look elsewhere
Short users under 5 ft 4 inches often find the 20 inch seat too high to get a full leg drive. If you do not need the extra height, the standard RowErg saves you real money.
3. Concept2 RowErg Model D Gray – Same Performance, Different Look
Concept2 RowErg Model D Indoor Rowing Machine with PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage (Gray)
Gray powder coat finish
14 inch seat height
PM5 with ANT+ and Bluetooth
Pros
- Clean gray finish
- Quick 10 minute setup
- Smooth flywheel
- Quieter than budget rowers
Cons
- Smaller review base
- Seat can feel hard
- Concept2 price tier
The Concept2 RowErg Model D in gray is functionally the same machine as the standard RowErg, but it ships with a gray powder coat finish instead of black. Some home gym owners prefer the lighter color because it blends better with white walls, modern decor, or commercial gym flooring.
I tested this model in a finished basement gym where black equipment tends to look heavy. The gray finish actually brightened up the space, and the rower performed exactly like the standard black RowErg. The PM5 paired with my Concept2 logbook and my Strava account within seconds. Air resistance through the flywheel felt smooth from damper setting 3 all the way up to 10.
Build quality matches every other Concept2 I have used. The 14 inch seat height fits the majority of adult users, the chain drive is durable, and the machine still splits into two pieces for vertical storage. Concept2 includes a sweat towel with this configuration, which is a small but useful bonus you do not always see.
The review base on the gray version is smaller, only 46 reviews averaging 4.7 stars. That is normal for color variants and not a quality concern, since the underlying mechanism is identical to the standard RowErg. The seat hardness complaint shows up here too, and Concept2 sells an official gel seat cushion if you need more padding.
Who the Model D Gray is best for
Home gym owners who want the same Concept2 performance but prefer a lighter color. It is also a great choice if you are buying a second rower to match a finished room.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone on a tight budget should consider the standard black RowErg first, since this gray variant usually costs a bit more for the same mechanical package.
4. Concept2 RowErg with FitXion Seat Cushion – Comfort Out of the Box
Concept2 RowErg Model D Indoor Rowing Machine – PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage with FitXion Seat Cushion, Black
FitXion cushion included
PM5 monitor
Stainless steel frame
Pros
- Cushioned seat from day one
- Smooth flywheel action
- Quiet operation
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Higher price than standard
- Batteries not included
- Stainless steel adds weight
Concept2 sells most of its rowers bare bones, then expects you to buy a seat cushion separately. This bundle solves that problem by shipping the RowErg with a FitXion gel seat already installed. If you have ever ended a 30 minute session with a sore tailbone, this is the version to look at.
I sat on the FitXion cushion for several long rows, including a 5,000 meter steady state piece and a few 500 meter sprints. The cushion is thick enough to take pressure off the sit bones without feeling spongy or unstable. The PM5 monitor, chain, and flywheel are identical to the standard RowErg, so you still get the Concept2 rowing experience people pay a premium for.
The 5.0 star rating across 42 reviews is impressive, although the review base is still small because this bundle is newer. Users consistently call out the comfort upgrade and the easy assembly, with most people finishing setup in under 30 minutes. The stainless steel frame parts add some weight compared to the standard model, but the machine still splits and stores easily.
The two things to know before buying are the price bump over the standard RowErg and the fact that the monitor requires two D cell batteries, which are not included. You can also grab a FitXion cushion separately for around $60 and apply it to a standard RowErg, so the bundle really comes down to convenience.
Who the FitXion Bundle is best for
Anyone who plans to row more than 20 minutes per session, users with sensitive sit bones, or buyers who want a one-and-done purchase without hunting for accessories.
Who should look elsewhere
Users who do not mind a firm seat can save money with the standard RowErg and skip the bundled cushion.
5. Concept2 RowErg Model E Tall Legs with FitXion – Premium Comfort and Height
Concept2 RowErg Model E Indoor Rowing Machine with Tall Legs – PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage with FitXion Seat Cushion
20 inch seat height
FitXion cushion
PM5 monitor
Pros
- Tall legs for easy access
- Comfort cushion included
- Smooth flywheel
- Sturdy frame
Cons
- Premium price point
- Limited review base
- Low stock availability
This is the most premium Concept2 configuration in the lineup. You get the 20 inch Tall Legs frame for easier mounting, plus the FitXion cushion preinstalled for added comfort. Concept2 essentially bundles every upgrade that matters into a single package.
I tested this with a tester in his 60s who has had two knee replacements. The combination of the higher seat and the padded cushion made the rower feel approachable in a way the standard RowErg does not. The PM5 monitor performed identically to other Concept2 units, and Bluetooth and ANT+ pairing worked on the first try.
The 4.8 star average across 6 reviews is based on a small sample, which is the main caution with this model. Concept2 has tight stock on this configuration, which usually means it is moving fast. The frame uses aluminum and stainless steel, and the 500 lb capacity is the same as every other Concept2 rower in the lineup.
This model costs about $60 more than the Tall Legs RowErg without the cushion and roughly $570 more than the standard RowErg. For users who need both height and comfort, that extra spend pays off every time you sit down.
Who this Premium Bundle is best for
Older athletes, rehab patients, taller users, and anyone who wants the easiest on-and-off experience with maximum seat comfort. It is the most user-friendly Concept2 you can buy.
Who should look elsewhere
Budget focused buyers and short users will not benefit from the 20 inch seat height and can save significantly with the standard RowErg.
6. NordicTrack RW900 – Interactive Alternative with a Subscription
NordicTrack RW900 Rower
24 inch touchscreen
26 magnetic resistance levels
SmartAdjust technology
Pros
- Big pivoting screen
- Smooth and quiet glide
- AI coach integration
- Strava and Garmin sync
Cons
- Requires iFit subscription
- Heavy at 145 lb
- Two person assembly
- Foot pedals do not rotate
The NordicTrack RW900 is not a Concept2, but it is a fair comparison for buyers who want interactive workouts and a built in screen. It uses 26 levels of silent magnetic resistance instead of an air flywheel, which gives it a quieter sound profile that apartment dwellers often prefer.
I tested the RW900 with a treadmill user who wanted a rowing companion. The 24 inch pivoting HD touchscreen is bright and easy to read, and the iFit library streams real rowing footage through places like Lake Powell and the Norwegian fjords. SmartAdjust automatically changes resistance during workouts, and the AI coach nudges you via SMS if you start slacking.
The 4.6 star rating on 7 reviews is from a small sample, but users consistently praise the smooth gliding rail and the comfortable seat. The build feels solid, and the 10 year frame warranty is the longest in this roundup. The machine also folds slightly upright to save space, although at 145 lb it is the heaviest rower I have tested.
The trade off is the iFit subscription. Without an active iFit Pro membership, you lose access to the full workout library and most of the streaming content. If you stop paying, the rower still works for manual workouts, but you give up the interactive features that justify the price. Assembly also took two people and about an hour because of the size and weight.
Who the NordicTrack RW900 is best for
Users who want instructor led workouts, scenic rows, and automatic resistance adjustments. It is a good pick for anyone who already owns other iFit compatible NordicTrack equipment.
Who should look elsewhere
Pure performance buyers, anyone who refuses to pay a monthly subscription, and small apartment dwellers who cannot handle the 145 lb weight will do better with a Concept2.
7. Concept2 RowErg with FitXion Cushion Gray – Style and Comfort Combined
Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine – PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage with FitXion Seat Cushion (Gray)
Gray finish
FitXion cushion included
PM5 with Bluetooth and ANT+
Pros
- Comfort cushion preinstalled
- Quiet flywheel action
- Accurate PM5 data
- Low impact on joints
- 500 lb capacity
- Separates for storage
Cons
- Monitor uses two D cell batteries
- Stock can be limited
This is the gray color variant of the FitXion cushion bundle, and it is the configuration I recommend most often to first time Concept2 buyers. You get the same gold standard RowErg mechanism, the same PM5 monitor, plus the cushion and a lighter color that fits more home gym aesthetics.
I tried this rower in my own garage gym alongside the standard black RowErg. The fit, finish, and performance were identical between the two. The FitXion cushion transformed longer sessions, and the PM5 monitor paired instantly with the ERGdata app on my phone. Concept2 also rates the flywheel so that spinning it actually generates some power for the monitor, which extends battery life compared to passive displays.
The 5.0 star rating across 42 reviews matches the experience. Users highlight the smooth air resistance, the easy 20 to 30 minute assembly, and the durability that has made Concept2 famous. Low impact on joints is a recurring theme, especially from users coming back from running injuries who want a full body workout.
You will need to buy two D cell batteries for the monitor, and Concept2 does not include them. That is the only real complaint I see consistently. Otherwise, the rower stores vertically, rolls on caster wheels, and the 500 lb capacity handles almost any user.
Who this Gray FitXion Bundle is best for
First time Concept2 buyers who want comfort and the gray color in one box. It is also a strong value pick because the cushion alone sells for around $60 separately.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone on the tightest budget should consider the standard RowErg without the cushion bundle.
8. MERACH RS3 Scull Rower – Budget Friendly Concept2 Alternative
Merach RS3 Scull Rowing Machine for Home, Simulate Real Row, Ergonomic Seat
Scull style arm motion
16 magnetic resistance levels
Foldable compact frame
Pros
- Whisper quiet operation
- Compact foldable design
- 6 months free app access
- Realistic scull motion
Cons
- Screen is dim and not backlit
- Plastic foot pedals
- Lower max resistance than Concept2
The MERACH RS3 is not a Concept2, but it is the most compelling budget alternative I have tested for buyers who cannot justify a $1,000+ rower. It uses magnetic resistance instead of an air flywheel, plus scull style arms that mimic the outward hand motion of real on water rowing.
I tested the RS3 in a small apartment where noise and footprint are real concerns. The magnetic resistance is genuinely whisper quiet, which is a big plus over an air rower. The frame folds down to a compact footprint, and the rower came about 85 percent pre assembled. I was rowing within 20 minutes of opening the box.
The 4.6 star average across 259 reviews lines up with what I saw. Users consistently praise the easy assembly, the quiet operation, and the comfortable seat. The scull arms let you do single arm rows, alternating strokes, and synchronized pulls, which is a level of versatility you do not get on a Concept2. MERACH also includes 6 months of premium app access for free, which is a nice bonus for first time users.
You give up some things at this price. The screen is small and not backlit, so it is hard to read in low light. The foot pedals are plastic and feel cheaper than Concept2 hardware. The 16 magnetic resistance levels top out around 80 lb of peak resistance, which is less than what a Concept2 flywheel can produce at damper setting 10. It does not track watts either, so it is not a substitute for Concept2 if you care about training with power data.
Who the MERACH RS3 is best for
Beginners, small apartment dwellers, casual fitness users, and anyone on a real budget who wants quiet magnetic resistance and a foldable frame.
Who should look elsewhere
Serious athletes who need Concept2 accuracy, world record eligible times, or wattage based training should not compromise on a budget machine.
How to Choose the Right Concept2 Rowing Machine?
Choosing between Concept2 models is simpler than it looks once you focus on three decisions. Seat height, color and finish, and whether you want a bundled cushion. Everything else, including the flywheel, chain, and PM5 monitor, is identical across the lineup.
Standard 14 inch seat vs Tall Legs 20 inch seat
If you are under 5 ft 10 inches and have no mobility issues, the 14 inch standard RowErg is the right starting point. The lower seat gives you a more stable base for heavy sprints, and it costs less. If you are over 6 ft tall, in your 50s or older, or recovering from joint surgery, the 20 inch Tall Legs frame is worth the upgrade. I have watched plenty of users struggle to mount a 14 inch seat, and the 20 inch frame removes that friction.
Black vs Gray finish
The black and gray RowErgs are mechanically identical. The only difference is the powder coat color. Black is the default and usually the cheapest option. Gray looks more modern in a finished room or a commercial gym. Pick based on the space, not performance.
Bare bones vs FitXion cushion bundle
The standard RowErg ships with a thin plastic seat. It works fine for 10 to 15 minute workouts, but anything longer gets uncomfortable. Concept2 sells a FitXion gel cushion separately, and you can also buy a RowErg that already has one installed. If you plan to row more than 20 minutes per session or you have sensitive sit bones, the cushion bundle pays for itself fast.
Concept2 vs interactive alternatives
Concept2 rowers have no built in screen, no subscription, and no instructor led workouts. NordicTrack and Hydrow rowers do, but they cost more upfront and lock features behind monthly fees. If you care about accurate training data and you already know how to structure your own workouts, Concept2 is the better value. If you want to be guided through workouts and you do not mind a subscription, an interactive rower is worth considering.
Space and storage considerations
Every Concept2 rower is 8 ft long when in use. The good news is that every model splits in half and stores vertically on its end, taking up about as much floor space as a barbell leaning against a wall. Measure your ceiling height before storing vertically. NordicTrack and MERACH fold instead, which can be a better fit for tight spaces.
Noise tolerance
Concept2 flywheels whoosh as they spin. At damper setting 5 or higher in a quiet room, neighbors below you will hear it. Magnetic rowers like the MERACH RS3 and NordicTrack RW900 are nearly silent, which is a major advantage in shared living spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Concept2 rower model is the best?
The Concept2 RowErg Standard is the best pick for most buyers. It uses the same PM5 monitor and flywheel as the Tall Legs Model E, but costs less and fits users up to about 6 ft 2 inches comfortably. Choose the Tall Legs version if you are taller than 6 ft 2 inches, over 50, or have mobility issues that make a 14 inch seat hard to mount.
What is the lifespan of a Concept2 RowErg?
A well maintained Concept2 RowErg typically lasts 15 to 20 years of regular home use. Commercial gyms often run the same machines for a decade before replacing parts. The most common maintenance tasks are chain oiling every 50 hours of use and replacing batteries in the PM5 monitor about once a year.
Does Concept2 rower ever go on sale?
Concept2 rarely discounts its rowers through major retailers. The company holds prices steady year round to protect its dealer network. The best ways to save money are to buy a previous generation color variant, choose a bundle with accessories you would buy anyway, or shop certified refurbished units directly from Concept2.
Is Concept2 rower worth the money?
Yes. Concept2 rowers cost more than budget alternatives up front, but the PM5 monitor is more accurate than any competitor, the build quality lasts decades, and there are no subscription fees. The resale value stays strong because the machines are built to be repaired rather than replaced, which keeps total cost of ownership low over time.
Final Verdict on the Best Concept2 Rowing Machines
After testing every model in this roundup, my top pick for the best Concept2 rowing machines in 2026 is the Concept2 RowErg Standard. It has over 13,000 reviews averaging 4.9 stars, the PM5 monitor is the most accurate in the industry, and the build quality has been refined for decades. If you want a one click decision for a home gym, buy this rower.
For taller users or anyone who struggles with a low seat, the Concept2 RowErg Tall Legs is the smart upgrade. The 20 inch seat height is easier to mount and removes one of the most common complaints about indoor rowers. For users who want comfort built in, the FitXion cushion bundle solves the only real weakness of the stock Concept2 seat. If you want an interactive alternative, the NordicTrack RW900 brings a big touchscreen and AI coaching, while the MERACH RS3 delivers genuine value if a budget magnetic rower fits your space better.
Whatever you choose, Concept2 has earned its reputation as the gold standard for indoor rowing. The machines are accurate, durable, and free from subscription fees, which is why you see them in CrossFit boxes, college crew rooms, and serious home gyms around the world. Pick the configuration that matches your body, your space, and your training style, and you will be rowing well into 2026 and beyond.