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Should I Buy Concept2 RowErg? 2025 Guide

Overcome hesitation about the $900 price tag, space needs, and long-term use to decide if this top rowing machine fits your fitness goals.

Recommendation: depends

Quick Answer

Buy the Concept2 RowErg if you're a committed rower with space and budget—it's unmatched in quality. Skip for casual or constrained setups; cheaper Amazon rowers like B07Y4Y6X9B work better. Use our framework to confirm fit.

You're eyeing the Concept2 RowErg but wondering if it's worth the $900 investment or if it'll become an expensive dust collector in your garage. Many hesitate due to the high upfront cost, its large footprint, and doubts about sticking with rowing long-term. People love it for elite-level training, but is it right for your casual fitness routine? This guide dives into real buyer concerns from Reddit, Amazon reviews, and forums like Rowing subreddit. We'll cover pros, cons, alternatives, and scenarios to help you decide. Spoiler: It depends on your commitment to consistent use and space.

What is Concept2 RowErg?

The Concept2 RowErg is widely regarded as the world's best-selling indoor rowing machine, manufactured by Concept2 in Vermont, USA. It simulates on-water rowing with a flywheel and air damper for realistic resistance that increases with your effort. The nickel-plated chain, aluminum rail, and ergonomic handle ensure smooth, quiet operation (relative to air rowers). Key features include the wireless PM5 monitor displaying splits, watts, and drag factor, with Bluetooth connectivity to apps like ErgData. Assembly takes 30-60 minutes, and it's separable for storage. Available direct from Concept2.com or Amazon (ASIN B08JHLG2FX), it's popular for its durability—many units last 20+ years with minimal maintenance.

Why the Hesitation?

The biggest hesitation is the $900 price—cheaper rowers start at $200, making buyers question value. Space is another: at 8ft long and 24in wide, it needs a dedicated spot, and upright storage isn't always feasible. Fear of non-use looms large; forums like r/homegym are full of 'dust collector' worries if motivation wanes. Noise from the fan (like a hairdryer on low) concerns apartment dwellers. Timing matters too—wait for Black Friday sales? Alternatives like Hydrow or magnetic rowers tempt with screens or quieter operation.

Key Reasons TO Buy

  • Unmatched durability: Built to withstand commercial gym use, with a 500lb capacity and lifetime warranty on frame.
  • Superior workout: Full-body engagement burns 600+ calories/hour, low-impact on joints.
  • Accurate performance tracking: PM5 monitor integrates with apps for structured training.
  • Thriving community: Online leaderboards, races, and free workouts via Concept2 Logbook.
  • High resale value: Retains 70-80% value after years.
  • Versatile for all levels: Adjustable damper suits beginners to elites.
  • Proven by pros: Used in Olympics, CrossFit Games, and military training.
  • Easy maintenance: Clean chain quarterly, no belts to replace.

Key Reasons NOT to Buy

  • High cost: $900+ vs. $300 alternatives with similar features.
  • Large footprint: 96x24in, hard for small spaces.
  • Air resistance noise: Loud fan sound bothers neighbors.
  • Basic monitor: No touchscreen or immersive video like competitors.
  • Assembly and weight: 57lb flywheel makes moving tough alone.
  • Learning curve: Proper form needed to avoid back strain.
  • No folding fully: Rail separates but still bulky.
  • Cold seat in winter without add-ons.

Should YOU Buy? Different Scenarios

Dedicated Home Gym Enthusiast

✓ YES

Fitness buff with garage gym, rows 4x/week for conditioning.

Budget: $800-$1200

Usage: Daily 30-45min sessions

Why: Perfect match for high usage and space. Delivers pro-level training and motivation via leaderboards. Long-term value unbeatable.

Budget-Conscious Beginner

✗ NO

New to fitness, small apartment, wants cardio 2x/week.

Budget: Under $400

Usage: Occasional 20min workouts

Why: Too expensive and bulky for low commitment; risk of dust collector. Start cheaper to test interest.

Consider instead: Sunny Health Magnetic Rower for quiet, compact use.

Apartment CrossFitter

✗ NO

Urban pro doing CrossFit, limited space but consistent use.

Budget: $900-$1000

Usage: 3-4x/week WODs

Why: Noise and size problematic in apartments; consider quieter magnetic.

Consider instead: Echelon Row for app classes and less noise.

Upgrading Runner

✓ YES

Marathoner with knee issues, dedicated room, high budget.

Budget: $1000+

Usage: 5x/week cross-training

Why: Ideal low-impact upgrade with precise tracking for intervals.

Casual Family User

✗ NO

Family wanting shared cardio, occasional use, tight budget.

Budget: $300-600

Usage: 1-2x/week per person

Why: Overkill for sporadic use; cheaper options suffice without premium features.

Consider instead: Fitness Reality Magnetic Rower.

Key Factors to Consider

  • Budget: Can you afford $900 + $100-200 accessories without debt?
  • Space: Do you have 8x6ft permanent area or storage solution?
  • Usage frequency: Will you row 3+ times/week?
  • Alternatives: Tried gym rowers or cheaper models?
  • Timing: Near sales (Black Friday drops to $850)?
  • Future needs: Growing family/home gym plans?
  • Complements: Need mat, fan, or monitor slides?
  • Opportunity cost: Better spend on Peloton or PT sessions?
  • Risk tolerance: OK with 30-day return policy?
  • Motivation: Joined online challenges?

Questions to Ask Yourself

  • ?Do I have space for an 8ft machine and use it daily?
  • ?Am I committed to rowing 3-5x/week, or just testing cardio?
  • ?Can I afford $900 upfront plus shipping/tax?
  • ?Have I tried rowing at a gym to confirm I like it?
  • ?Will noise bother my household/neighbors?
  • ?Do I need immersive classes, or data-driven training?
  • ?What's my plan if I stop using it (resell)?
  • ?Am I upgrading from a cheap rower, or starting fresh?
  • ?Does my fitness goal align with full-body low-impact cardio?
  • ?Have I budgeted for maintenance like chain lube?

Detailed Analysis

The Concept2 RowErg shines for serious fitness enthusiasts committed to 3-5 sessions/week. Real users on Amazon (4.8/5 stars, 1k+ reviews) rave about its realism and motivation from rankings. CrossFitters and rowers love it, but casual users often underuse it. Compared to Amazon alternatives like Sunny Health & Fitness rower (ASIN B07Y4Y6X9B, ~$250), it lacks magnetic quietness but excels in accuracy and longevity. Hydrow ($2k+) adds scenery but no leaderboard edge. Experts like MindBodyGreen call it 'the best rower ever made.' Long-term: Minimal upkeep, great resale on Facebook Marketplace. Trends favor home gym post-COVID, but smart rowers rise. In 2025, no major updates expected—Model E adds higher seat for taller/injured users. Market: Dominates 70% share; complaints center on price/space from novices. Reddit consensus: Buy if rowing hooked, else test first.

Related Products & Alternatives

#1
main

Concept2 RowErg Rowing Machine

$900

The actual Concept2 RowErg with PM5 monitor, available on Amazon for fast shipping. Includes free shipping options and Prime eligibility.

💡 Why We Recommend It

Core product if sold out direct from Concept2.

Best For

Anyone ready to buy the gold standard rower.

🛒 Check Price on Amazon →
#2
alternative

Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine

$249

Quiet magnetic resistance rower with 8 levels, foldable for small spaces. Great entry-level with LCD monitor.

💡 Why We Recommend It

Budget-friendly intro to rowing without $900 commitment.

Best For

Beginners or space-limited users.

🛒 Check Price on Amazon →
#3
alternative

Echelon Row Smart Rower

$799

App-connected with on-demand classes, quieter than air rowers. 16 resistance levels, compact design.

💡 Why We Recommend It

For those wanting guided workouts over raw data.

Best For

Class lovers avoiding noise.

🛒 Check Price on Amazon →
#4
accessory

Concept2 Sliding Seat Rower Mat

$120

Heavy-duty mat protects floors and reduces noise/vibration. Essential for hardwood or apartments.

💡 Why We Recommend It

Must-have to prevent damage and slippage.

Best For

All RowErg owners.

🛒 Check Price on Amazon →
#5
accessory

Black Iron Fitness Rowing Machine Floor Mat

$45

Thick 1/2in mat for vibration dampening, waterproof. Cheaper alternative to official mat.

💡 Why We Recommend It

Budget protection for your investment.

Best For

Cost-conscious RowErg buyers.

🛒 Check Price on Amazon →
#6
accessory

Concept2 Performance Monitor Slide

$35

Velcro strips for easy PM5 removal and laptop mounting. Enhances portability.

💡 Why We Recommend It

Convenience for multi-monitor setups.

Best For

Tech-savvy users.

🛒 Check Price on Amazon →
#7
complement

Hyperice Normatec Legs Recovery System

$799

Compression boots for post-row recovery. Speeds muscle repair.

💡 Why We Recommend It

Pairs perfectly with intense rowing sessions.

Best For

High-volume trainers.

🛒 Check Price on Amazon →
#8
accessory

Water Bottle Holder for RowErg

$25

Clips to frame for hydration during long rows.

💡 Why We Recommend It

Small upgrade for convenience.

Best For

Endurance rowers.

🛒 Check Price on Amazon →

Bottom Line

The Concept2 RowErg is a 'depends'—buy if you're committed to regular rowing with space and budget. Skip for casual use or tight quarters; opt for Amazon alternatives like Sunny (B07Y4Y6X9B). Use our questions and scenarios to self-assess. Best timing: Sales or after gym trial. If yes, pair with a mat (B00WHJRHJC). Final advice: Test drive via Concept2 rentals if possible.

Best For

  • CrossFit enthusiasts training 5x/week for WODs.
  • Competitive rowers tracking paces and entering virtual races.
  • Home gym owners with dedicated space and $1k+ budget.
  • Injured runners seeking low-impact cardio alternative.
  • Busy professionals needing efficient 20-min full-body workouts.
  • Families sharing a premium machine for years.
  • Gym owners adding reliable cardio equipment.
  • Data nerds loving metrics and app integration.

Not Recommended For

  • Budget buyers under $500 seeking basic cardio.
  • Apartment dwellers with noise/space constraints.
  • Beginners unsure about rowing form/commitment.
  • Users preferring classes/videos over self-directed workouts.
  • Casual exercisers using <2x/week.
  • Tall athletes over 6'5" (opt for Model E).
  • Those with bad backs without proper form coaching.
  • Travelers needing portable fitness gear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I buy Concept2 RowErg?

Yes if you row 3+ times/week with space; no for beginners or budgets under $500. It's elite but not for everyone.

Is Concept2 RowErg a good buy in 2025?

Excellent for dedicated users due to durability and community. Value holds if used consistently.

Should I get Concept2 RowErg or Sunny Health rower?

Concept2 for pros/longevity; Sunny (B07Y4Y6X9B) for budget/quiet entry-level.

Is Concept2 RowErg worth $900?

Yes for 10-20 year lifespan; calculate cost per workout—pennies if used often.

When should I buy Concept2 RowErg?

Now if motivated with space; wait for Black Friday or new model rumors.

What should I consider before buying Concept2 RowErg?

Space, noise, usage commitment, accessories like mats, and 30-day trial.

Who should buy Concept2 RowErg?

CrossFitters, competitive rowers, home gym owners with high frequency.

Is Concept2 RowErg loud?

Air fan like quiet dryer; manageable with mat/headphones, not silent.

Does Concept2 RowErg fold?

Separates for upright storage but needs 7ft height clearance.

Concept2 RowErg vs Hydrow?

Concept2 for data/community; Hydrow for scenic classes (more $).

Can I return Concept2 RowErg?

30 days from Concept2/Amazon; test thoroughly first.

Ready to Make Your Decision?

We hope this guide helped you decide whether Concept2 RowErg is right for you.

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