Concept2 RowErg vs Hydrow Wave: Which Rower to Buy?
Concept2 RowErg or Hydrow Wave? Compare feel, noise, data, subscriptions and long-term cost to choose the home rower you will actually keep using.
Disclosure: TheHomeGymReport is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
The short answer
Choose the Concept2 RowErg if you want a proven, near-indestructible rower with accurate data, no required subscription and strong resale value. Choose the Hydrow Wave if you want quiet, guided on-water classes on a built-in screen and you are happy to pay a monthly membership. For pure fitness per dollar, the Concept2 usually wins.
Our top picks
- Pick the Concept2 RowErg if… you want durability, accurate metrics and no subscription. Check price on Amazon
- Pick the Hydrow Wave if… you want quiet, coached classes and a screen that keeps you motivated. Check price on Amazon
| Feature | Concept2 RowErg | Hydrow Wave |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance | Air flywheel with adjustable damper | Electromagnetic drag, computer-controlled |
| Screen | PM5 monitor (numbers, no video) | Built-in HD touchscreen with classes |
| Subscription | Not required; works with many free and paid apps | Membership needed for classes and most features |
| Noise | Noticeable fan whoosh | Very quiet |
| Storage | Separates into two pieces or stands upright | Compact; can stand upright with a kit |
| Price tier | Mid-range | Mid-range to premium, plus monthly fee |
| Best for | Data-driven training, CrossFit, longevity | Guided workouts, apartments, motivation |
How we built this guide
We compared these rowers using manufacturer specs, published measurements, owner reports and long-term reviews. We did not run hands-on tests. Membership pricing and features can change, so check the current terms before you buy.
How do the Concept2 and Hydrow Wave feel different?
The Concept2 feels like a fan you have to push. The harder you pull, the more resistance you get. The Hydrow Wave uses an electromagnetic brake that the software adjusts to mimic the feel of a boat on water.
Concept2’s damper lever changes how “heavy” each stroke feels, a bit like gears on a bike. Most coaches suggest a middle setting. Because the resistance is tied to your own effort, the Concept2 scales from gentle warm-ups to all-out sprints without any settings changes.
Hydrow owners often describe the Wave as smooth and quiet with a pleasant glide. The trade-off is that the feel is set by software. If you like to chase exact numbers, you may prefer the more raw, consistent response of an air rower.
Which rower gives better data and workouts?
For numbers, the Concept2 is the benchmark. For guided content, the Hydrow Wave is stronger out of the box.
The PM5 monitor is used in gyms, races and online rankings around the world. Its pace per 500 meters is a shared standard, so your times mean the same thing as everyone else’s. It connects over Bluetooth to many third-party apps, including Concept2’s own free ErgData app.
The Hydrow Wave is built around its library of classes, many filmed on real water with a coach in the boat. If you hate staring at numbers and want someone to talk you through a session, this is its biggest strength. Without a membership, though, the screen does far less.
Is the Hydrow subscription worth it?
It is worth it only if classes are the reason you will actually row. If you already know how to structure workouts, the ongoing cost adds up quickly with little extra benefit.
Think about the total cost over three years, not just the machine price. A Concept2 has no required fee. Over time, that gap often exceeds the difference in machine prices. On the other hand, a rower you avoid is wasted money. Many people find a coach on screen is what keeps them consistent.
What actually matters when choosing a rower?
Focus on stroke feel, footprint, noise, monitor accuracy and total cost of ownership. Ignore marketing claims about “calories burned per minute,” which depend on your effort and body size.
- Length: Both are long machines. Leave clearance behind and in front so the handle and your knees have room.
- Noise: Air rowers whoosh. If you share walls or train while kids sleep, the Wave is the quieter pick.
- Seat height: The Concept2 has a standard seat height; a tall-leg version exists for people who find getting up from low seats hard.
- Durability and resale: Concept2 rowers are known for lasting years and holding value on the used market.
Who should buy each one, and who should skip it?
The Concept2 is for people who want a rower that will last, follow training plans, compete in online challenges or do CrossFit-style workouts. Skip it if noise is a deal-breaker or you know you need on-screen coaching to stay motivated.
The Hydrow Wave is for apartment dwellers, beginners who want instruction and anyone who enjoys immersive classes. Skip it if you do not want another monthly bill or you care most about standardized pace data.
Watch-outs before you buy
- Floor protection: Put an equipment mat under either rower to protect floors and reduce vibration.
- Power: The Hydrow needs an outlet nearby. The Concept2 monitor runs on batteries.
- Bundles: Many Concept2 listings on Amazon are bundles with extras from third-party sellers. Check who the seller is and what is included.
- Membership terms: Read what the Hydrow does without a subscription before you commit.
- Technique: Bad form leads to back strain on any rower. Learn the legs-body-arms sequence first.
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Concept2 RowErg if you want the most proven machine, real data and no required fees.
- Choose the Hydrow Wave if quiet operation and coached classes will get you rowing more often.
- Choose a budget magnetic rower if you just want light cardio and space is tight; see our best rowing machines guide.
Check the Concept2 RowErg on Amazon →
Check the Hydrow Wave on Amazon →
Common questions
Can you use the Hydrow Wave without a subscription?
You can row on it, but most of the classes and tracking features depend on the membership. Check Hydrow’s current terms for exactly what works without one. If you want a rower that is fully featured with no fee, the Concept2 is the safer choice.
Is the Concept2 too loud for an apartment?
It produces a steady fan whoosh and some rail noise. Many apartment owners use it with a mat and train at reasonable hours. If you have very thin floors or strict neighbors, a magnetic rower like the Hydrow Wave is quieter.
Which rower is better for beginners?
The Hydrow Wave offers more hand-holding through guided classes. The Concept2 is just as easy to use, but you need to bring your own plan or use an app. Both are fine for beginners who learn proper technique.
How much space do these rowers need?
Plan for roughly 9 feet of length and about 4 feet of width for comfortable use with the Concept2, according to the manufacturer’s guidance. The Wave is more compact but still long. Measure your room and include space to get on and off.
Does the Concept2 hold its value?
Used Concept2 rowers are in steady demand, and owners often report reselling them for a solid share of the original price. That makes the long-term cost lower than the sticker suggests.