The Concept2 Model D has been the gold standard rowing machine since 1981. It uses air flywheel resistance, sits in virtually every commercial gym and rowing club on earth, and costs around $900. The Hydrow Wave is the connected rower challenger — electromagnetic resistance, a 16-inch touchscreen, live and on-demand classes filmed on actual water. They represent two completely different philosophies: proven athletic equipment versus immersive connected fitness. Which one wins depends on why you're rowing.
Concept2 Model D
The Concept2 Model D wins for serious athletes, competitive rowers, and anyone who trains with structured intervals. It's the machine used to set world records and the one coaches actually recommend. The Hydrow Wave wins for motivated beginners and connected fitness fans who need an engaging experience to stay consistent. If you'll use it more because of the screen and classes, the Hydrow is the right call.
Specs Comparison
| Spec | Concept2 Model D | Hydrow Wave |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance Type | Air flywheel | Electromagnetic (10 levels) |
| Monitor | PM5 (no screen) | 16" touchscreen |
| Noise Level | ~75 dB rowing | ~55 dB rowing |
| Weight | 57 lbs | 102 lbs |
| Max User Weight | 500 lbs | 375 lbs |
| Monthly Subscription | $0 (ErgData free) | $44/month |
| Price | ~$900 | ~$1,495 |
Resistance and Row Feel
The Concept2's air flywheel creates resistance proportional to how hard you pull — row harder, feel more resistance instantly. This dynamic response is why competitive rowers universally prefer it. The PM5 monitor tracks split times, watts, strokes per minute, and pace per 500m with military precision. Every indoor rowing world record has been set on a Concept2.
The Hydrow Wave uses electromagnetic resistance with 10 preset levels. It's smooth and quiet — users on r/rowing note it's noticeably quieter than air rowers, which matters in shared living spaces. The resistance, however, doesn't scale dynamically with effort the same way air does. Instructors control resistance changes during class, and you can override manually.
Screen and Class Experience
The Hydrow Wave has a 16-inch touchscreen (the full Hydrow has a 22-inch screen). Classes are filmed on actual water with professional athletes as instructors — the production quality is genuinely impressive. Hydrow's content team includes Olympic rowers. The subscription is $44/month for unlimited access.
The Concept2 PM5 monitor is a small, functional display with zero entertainment value. It shows you exactly what you need for training and nothing more. Concept2's ErgData app syncs to your phone and connects to Concept2's online logbook, which has a massive community of competitive rowers tracking their workouts. There's no subscription required.
Footprint and Storage
The Concept2 Model D separates into two pieces — the front and rear sections detach in about 30 seconds without tools. Each piece stores vertically, and the whole rower can be stored in a closet. The assembled footprint is 96" x 24". At 57 lbs, it's also lighter than most connected rowers.
The Hydrow Wave doesn't separate for storage. It does store upright on its end using the included storage kit, with a footprint of roughly 25" x 23" when vertical. Assembled, it's 86" x 23". The Wave weighs 102 lbs. Both can stand upright, but the Concept2's two-piece separation gives it an edge for tight spaces.
Long-Term Value
Concept2 rowers hold their resale value better than almost any fitness equipment on the market. Used Model D units sell for $600–$750 regularly. The machine is virtually indestructible — Concept2 has been making them since 1981 and parts are widely available. Wirecutter has recommended the Model D for over a decade without changing their pick.
Hydrow's value is tied to its subscription. At $44/month, you're paying $528/year on top of the $1,495 machine cost. Over five years, that's $2,640 in subscription fees. If Hydrow changes pricing or the service changes, your investment in the hardware depreciates quickly. The Wave is a great machine — just understand the ongoing cost structure.
Concept2 Model D Strengths
- Dynamic air resistance scales with effort — preferred by competitive rowers
- No subscription required
- Separates into two pieces for compact storage
- Holds resale value exceptionally well
- PM5 monitor trusted by athletes worldwide
Hydrow Wave Strengths
- Quiet electromagnetic resistance — better for apartments
- 16" touchscreen with high-quality water-filmed classes
- Olympic rower instructors
- More visually appealing in a home setting
Concept2 Model D Weaknesses
- Air resistance is louder (~75 dB at moderate effort)
- PM5 monitor has no entertainment value
- No built-in class guidance
Hydrow Wave Weaknesses
- $44/month subscription required for class access
- Fixed resistance levels — doesn't scale dynamically like air
- $595 more expensive upfront than Model D
- Doesn't separate for storage
Best For
- a: Competitive rowers, athletes doing structured intervals, and anyone who wants the most proven rowing machine without ongoing fees
- b: Connected fitness fans, motivated beginners who need engaging classes, and apartment dwellers who need a quieter rowing experience
FAQ
Is the Concept2 Model D good for beginners?
Yes, but the learning curve is steeper without guided coaching. Concept2's YouTube channel and the r/rowing community have excellent form guides. Many coaches argue learning on the Model D builds better technique than resistance-guided machines.
Can I use the Hydrow Wave without the subscription?
Yes, but you lose access to all live and on-demand classes. You can still row manually with resistance control. Most Hydrow buyers find the machine feels like an expensive piece of furniture without the class library.
How loud is the Concept2 at full effort?
Garage Gym Reviews measured the Model D at around 75–80 dB at hard rowing pace — similar to a loud conversation. The whirring flywheel sound bothers some people in shared living situations. A fan helps mask it.