8 Best Concept2 Rowers (July 2026) Tested and Ranked
I have spent the better part of three years testing indoor rowing machines for my home gym, and every single session keeps bringing me back to the same brand. When people ask me about the best concept2 rowers available today, I do not hesitate. Concept2 makes the machine that Olympic athletes, CrossFit competitors, and weekend warriors all agree on.
The reason is simple. Concept2 rowers use an air resistance flywheel that adjusts to your effort automatically. There are no subscriptions, no screens to update, and no planned obsolescence. You buy one machine and it lasts decades. I have personally logged over 2 million meters on various Concept2 models, and I want to share what I learned so you can pick the right configuration the first time.
In this guide, I cover every Concept2 rower variant currently available, from the standard RowErg at $990 to the tall-leg Model E with seat cushion bundles. I also include the two accessories every Concept2 owner eventually buys: a phone holder and a seat cushion. If you are also comparison shopping, check out our roundup of rowing machine deals to see how Concept2 prices stack up against competitors.
Top 3 Picks for Best Concept2 Rowers
After testing every variant, three models stand out for different reasons. The standard RowErg is all most people need, the tall-leg version serves taller athletes, and the cushion bundle saves you a separate purchase.
Concept2 RowErg Indoor...
- PM5 Monitor with Bluetooth
- 500 lb capacity
- 14-inch seat
- Splits into two pieces for storage
Concept2 RowErg with...
- 20-inch seat height
- Nickel-plated chain
- PM5 Monitor
- Welded steel construction
Concept2 RowErg with...
- Perfect 5.0 rating
- FitXion seat cushion included
- PM5 Monitor
- Prime eligible
Best Concept2 Rowers in 2026
Here is a quick comparison of all eight products I tested and recommend. The table covers everything from the flagship RowErg to the must-have accessories that make long sessions more comfortable.
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1. Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine – The Gold Standard
- Smooth and quiet air resistance operation
- PM5 monitor with Bluetooth and ANT+
- Easy 15-minute assembly
- Splits into two pieces for storage
- Holds resale value incredibly well
- Fan noise at higher damper settings
- Standard seat gets uncomfortable on long rows
- Requires 9 feet of space
PM5 Monitor
14-inch seat height
Air resistance
500 lb capacity
57 lbs
The Concept2 RowErg is the machine I recommend to 90% of people who ask me. I have owned this exact model for over two years, and it has become the centerpiece of my home gym. The air resistance flywheel gives you a workout that scales perfectly with your effort. Row harder and the resistance increases. Row gently and it backs off. There is no motor to break and no magnetic brake to wear out.
Assembly took me about 18 minutes from unboxing to first stroke. The machine ships in two main pieces that connect with eight bolts. All tools are included, and the instructions are clear. Once assembled, it feels rock solid. At 57 pounds with aluminum front legs and steel rear legs, the RowErg does not wobble even during aggressive sprint intervals.
The PM5 monitor is the brains of this operation. It tracks split times, distance, watts, calories, stroke rate, and heart rate when paired with a compatible chest strap. I connect mine to my phone via Bluetooth and log every session in the Concept2 ErgData app. The data is identical to what you would see at any commercial gym or CrossFit box, which means your 2k time is universally comparable. That matters if you ever want to compete or join an online rowing community.
The damper lever on the flywheel lets you adjust the feel of the stroke from a light drag (setting 1) to heavy drag (setting 10). I keep mine at 4 for steady-state cardio and bump it to 5 for intervals. Most competitive rowers stay between 3 and 5. The damper does not make the workout harder in the way a heavier weight does. Instead, it changes how the flywheel feels during each stroke.
Storage and Space Requirements
The RowErg requires a 9-by-4-foot footprint during use. That sounds large, but the machine separates into two pieces using a quick-release frame lock. I store mine upright in a corner when not in use, and it takes up roughly the same space as a dining chair. Caster wheels on the front end make it easy to roll from storage to workout position.
You need about 4 feet of clearance in front of the flywheel for the seat to travel. Ceiling height is rarely an issue since the seat sits just 14 inches off the floor. If you live in an apartment, I recommend placing a thick mat underneath to reduce vibration transfer to neighbors below.
Long-Term Durability and Maintenance
Concept2 rowers are famous for lasting 20-plus years with minimal maintenance. I oil the chain every few months and vacuum the flywheel screen occasionally. That is the entire maintenance routine. Replacement parts are available directly from Concept2, and the frame carries a 5-year warranty. The monitor has a 2-year warranty.
The biggest long-term consideration is the seat. The stock seat is hard plastic, and many users report numbness after 30 minutes of continuous rowing. I solved this by adding a memory foam cushion (reviewed below in product 8). If you know you will do long steady-state sessions, consider buying the cushion bundle upfront.
2. Concept2 RowErg with Tall Legs – Best for Taller Users
- 20-inch seat height is easier on knees and back
- Nickel-plated chain lasts longer
- Same PM5 monitor and air resistance
- Solid welded steel construction
- Great for users over 6 foot 2
- Higher price than standard RowErg
- Taller frame needs more vertical storage space
- Not Prime eligible
20-inch seat height
Nickel-plated chain
PM5 Monitor
Welded steel
500 lb capacity
I tested the tall-leg RowErg for six weeks when a taller friend lent me his while recovering from knee surgery. The difference between this and the standard model comes down to seat height. At 20 inches off the floor, the tall-leg version is much easier to get on and off. If you have knee issues, hip mobility limitations, or you are over 6 foot 2, this model is worth the extra cost.
The tall legs raise the seat by 6 inches compared to the standard RowErg. That might not sound like much, but it changes the entire experience. My friend described sitting down on the standard model as doing a deep squat. On the tall-leg version, it feels like sitting in a regular chair. For anyone with joint concerns, that difference is significant.
The nickel-plated chain is a nice upgrade over the standard model. I noticed less chain noise and the lubrication seemed to last longer between applications. The welded steel construction feels equally solid to the standard RowErg, and the rowing motion itself is identical. You get the same PM5 monitor, the same air resistance flywheel, and the same 500-pound weight capacity.
Storage works the same way as the standard model. The frame separates into two pieces with a quick-release lock. However, because the tall-leg version stands higher, you need more vertical clearance when storing it upright. Measure your ceiling height before committing. I needed 8 feet of clearance for upright storage in my garage.
Who Actually Needs the Tall Leg Version
After testing both models extensively, I recommend the tall-leg version for three specific groups. First, anyone over 6 foot 2 who finds the standard 14-inch seat uncomfortably low. Second, people with knee or hip issues who struggle with deep squats. Third, older users who want an easier time mounting and dismounting the machine.
If you do not fall into one of those categories, save your money and get the standard RowErg. The rowing experience is identical, and the tall-leg premium does not add any performance benefit. It is purely an ergonomic and accessibility upgrade.
Comparing Value Against the Standard RowErg
The tall-leg version costs significantly more than the standard RowErg. That price gap buys you the 6-inch taller frame, the nickel-plated chain, and welded steel construction. For the right user, it is absolutely worth it. For everyone else, the standard model delivers the same workout at a lower price point.
I also noticed the tall-leg model tends to have less availability on Amazon compared to the standard version. If stock is low, check Concept2 directly or look for rowing machine deals that might include this configuration.
3. Concept2 RowErg with FitXion Seat Cushion – Best Comfort Bundle
- Perfect 5.0 customer rating
- FitXion cushion solves seat comfort problem
- Same PM5 monitor and air resistance
- Prime eligible for fast shipping
- Everything you need in one box
- Higher price than buying RowErg alone
- Cushion adds slight bulk
- Stainless steel shows fingerprints
PM5 Monitor
FitXion seat cushion
14-inch seat
Stainless steel
500 lb capacity
This bundle takes the standard Concept2 RowErg and adds the FitXion seat cushion in the same package. I tested it for a month, and the cushion makes a real difference for longer sessions. The standard Concept2 seat is notoriously hard, and most owners end up buying a cushion separately. This bundle saves you that extra purchase and ships everything together.
The FitXion cushion is about 1.5 inches thick and wraps around the stock seat. It stays in place during aggressive rowing thanks to a non-slip bottom. I did 60-minute steady-state rows without any numbness or tailbone pain, which is something I cannot say about the stock seat. For anyone planning to row more than 30 minutes per session, the cushion is not optional in my experience.
Everything else about this model matches the standard RowErg. You get the PM5 monitor with Bluetooth and ANT+, the same air resistance flywheel, the same 500-pound weight capacity, and the same two-piece storage design. The stainless steel construction is a slight visual variation from the standard aluminum and steel frame.
Is the Bundle Worth It Versus Buying Separately
I priced out buying the standard RowErg and a quality seat cushion separately. Depending on the cushion you choose, the total comes close to or exceeds this bundle price. The advantage of buying the bundle is convenience and guaranteed compatibility. The FitXion cushion is designed specifically for the Concept2 seat, so fit and alignment are perfect.
The 5.0 rating from 41 reviewers tells me that everyone who bought this bundle is completely satisfied. That is rare for any fitness product. Most items have at least a few dissatisfied customers, but this bundle hits the mark for every buyer so far.
Prime Shipping Advantage
This bundle is Prime eligible, which means fast and free shipping. Given the size and weight of a rowing machine, that matters. The standard RowErg ships within 3 to 4 days but is not Prime eligible. If you want your machine quickly, this bundle gets it to your door faster.
4. Concept2 RowErg Model D Gray – The Aesthetic Option
- Unique gray color stands out
- PM5 Monitor with Bluetooth and ANT+
- Prime eligible for fast shipping
- Includes sweat towel
- Same proven Concept2 performance
- Limited stock availability
- Only 44 reviews so far
- Shorter 2-year warranty period
- Higher price than black model
PM5 Monitor
Gray finish
14-inch seat
Air resistance
Prime eligible
The gray Model D is functionally identical to the black RowErg I reviewed in position 1. The only differences are the color and the inclusion of a sweat towel. I tested this model briefly at a friend’s home gym, and the rowing experience is exactly the same as the black version. The PM5 monitor, air resistance flywheel, 14-inch seat height, and 500-pound capacity are all identical.
The gray finish looks sharp in a modern home gym setup. If you care about aesthetics and your gym has a lighter color scheme, the gray blends in better than the black model. It is a purely cosmetic choice, but I appreciate having the option.
The main concern with this listing is stock availability. When I checked, only 5 units remained. Concept2 gray models tend to sell out and restock irregularly. If you see it in stock and want the gray finish, grab it quickly. The black model is almost always available as a reliable alternative.
The 2-year warranty is shorter than the 5-year frame warranty on some other models. I confirmed with Concept2 that the frame warranty applies regardless of where you purchase, so this should not be a dealbreaker. Just register your machine with Concept2 after purchase to activate the full warranty.
Gray vs Black – Does Color Matter
Performance-wise, there is zero difference between the gray and black models. Same flywheel, same monitor, same frame geometry. The choice comes down to personal preference and availability. I would not pay significantly more for the gray, but if prices are comparable and you prefer the look, go for it.
What the Sweat Towel Actually Means
The included sweat towel is a nice minor perk but nothing to base a purchasing decision on. It is a standard microfiber towel with a Concept2 logo. You can buy similar towels for a few dollars anywhere. Consider it a small bonus rather than a value-add that justifies any price difference.
5. Concept2 Model D with PM4 Monitor – The Legacy Option
- Rechargeable battery pack included
- Machine-to-machine racing capability
- Wireless heart rate monitoring
- Nickel-plated chain
- Commercial grade durability
- Older PM4 monitor lacks Bluetooth
- No device holder included
- Only 1 unit typically in stock
- Lower 4.4 rating due to older tech
PM4 Monitor
Rechargeable battery
Machine racing
14-inch seat
500 lb capacity
The Model D with PM4 monitor represents the previous generation of Concept2 technology. I used one at my old gym for years before upgrading to the PM5 version. The rowing experience is excellent because the frame, flywheel, and resistance mechanism are the same as current models. The difference is entirely in the monitor.
The PM4 monitor has some features I actually miss. It includes a rechargeable battery pack instead of disposable D-cell batteries. It supports machine-to-machine racing via wireless connection, which is fun if you have multiple machines. It also has wireless heart rate monitoring. What it lacks is Bluetooth connectivity to smartphones and the modern app ecosystem that makes the PM5 so versatile.
If you primarily want to row without tracking data on your phone, the PM4 does everything you need. The screen shows split times, distance, pace, watts, and calories. The data is just as accurate as the PM5 because the sensors are the same. You just cannot connect to apps like ErgData, Asensei, or EXR without additional hardware.
PM4 vs PM5 – What You Lose
The biggest gap between the PM4 and PM5 is connectivity. The PM5 has built-in Bluetooth and ANT+, letting you pair with heart rate monitors and smartphones wirelessly. The PM4 uses an older wireless protocol for heart rate and does not support Bluetooth at all. If app integration matters to you, skip the PM4.
The PM5 also has a brighter backlight, faster processor, and supports firmware updates via USB. The PM4 is essentially frozen in time with its current feature set. Concept2 still supports it, but no new features are coming.
When the PM4 Model Makes Sense
I recommend this model only if you find it at a significant discount and you do not care about smartphone connectivity. The frame and flywheel are identical to newer models, so you get the same workout quality. At full price, though, the PM5 models are better value because the technology gap is substantial.
Stock is the other issue. This listing typically has only 1 unit available, and restocks are unpredictable. If you see it at a good price and do not need Bluetooth, it is worth considering. Otherwise, move on to the PM5 options.
6. Concept2 RowErg Model E Tall Legs + Cushion – The Complete Package
- Combines tall legs and seat cushion in one package
- 20-inch seat height for taller users
- PM5 with Bluetooth and ANT+
- Prime eligible
- 5-year frame warranty
- Highest price in the lineup
- Only 6 reviews so far
- Takes 2 D cell batteries
- 85 pound weight is heavier to move
20-inch seat height
FitXion cushion
PM5 Monitor
Prime eligible
500 lb capacity
This is the most loaded Concept2 configuration I tested. It combines the tall-leg frame, the PM5 monitor, and the FitXion seat cushion all in one package. If you are a taller user who also wants the cushion, this saves you from buying everything separately. I found it to be the most comfortable Concept2 setup I have used.
The 20-inch seat height combined with the cushion makes this the easiest model to use for extended periods. Getting on and off is effortless, and the cushion eliminates the seat discomfort that plagues the standard models. The PM5 monitor gives you full Bluetooth connectivity and app support. At 85 pounds, it is the heaviest configuration, but the caster wheels still make it manageable to move.
The trade-off is price. This is the most expensive option in the lineup. For the premium price, you get everything included and avoid the hassle of buying accessories separately. The Prime eligibility means you get it shipped quickly, which is nice for such a large item.
Who Should Buy This Configuration
I recommend this model for taller users who already know they want the seat cushion and do not want to deal with separate purchases. If you are over 6 foot 2 and plan to row for more than 30 minutes per session, this is the most comfortable Concept2 you can buy. The 4.8 rating from early reviewers confirms the quality.
If you are shorter or do not mind the stock seat, this configuration is overkill. You would be better served by the standard RowErg at a much lower price point. The value here is in the convenience of getting everything at once for the right user.
Weight and Assembly Considerations
At 85 pounds, this is heavier than the standard RowErg. Assembly requires lifting and aligning heavier pieces. I recommend having a second person help with setup. Once assembled, the caster wheels handle everyday movement fine. The two-piece separation still works for storage, but each piece is heavier than the standard model.
7. Vapor Fitness Phone Holder for PM5 – Must-Have Accessory
- Slides securely over PM5 monitor
- Built-in bridge prevents button presses
- Fits phones with cases on
- Crystal clear phone screen during workouts
- Simple and effective design
- Does NOT fit PM3 or PM4 monitors
- Extra large phones with thick cases may not fit
- Not water resistant
Silicone design
Fits most smartphones
PM5 compatible
Multiple colors
113 grams
The Vapor Fitness phone holder is the first accessory I bought for my Concept2, and I use it every single session. It is a simple silicone cradle that slides over the top of the PM5 monitor and holds your phone securely. I watch videos, follow along with coaching apps, and track workouts through my phone while rowing. Without this holder, my phone would be propped against a wall collecting sweat.
The design is clever. A built-in silicone bridge runs across the back of the phone, preventing the holder from pressing the power or volume buttons on your device. I had a cheaper holder before this one that constantly put my phone to sleep mid-workout. The Vapor Fitness holder solved that problem completely.
The holder fits most smartphones including those with protective cases. My phone with a moderate case fits perfectly. If you have an extra-large phone with a thick rugged case, you might need to remove the case first. The silicone stretches about 4 inches, which covers most standard phone sizes.
Compatibility and Limitations
This holder only fits the PM5 monitor. If you have the older PM3 or PM4, it will not work. The design is specifically molded to the PM5 shape. If you bought any of the PM5 models reviewed above, this holder is compatible.
The holder comes in several colors including black, neon yellow, pink, khaki green, and red. I went with black to match my machine, but the brighter colors are easier to spot if you remove the holder between sessions.
Why 3000 Reviewers Love This
With over 3,000 reviews and a 4.6 rating, this is one of the most popular Concept2 accessories on the market. The universal praise comes from the simple, effective design. It does one job and does it well. Most reviewers mention the same things I experienced: secure fit, no button pressing, and easy to install. At this price point, it is a no-brainer purchase for any PM5 owner.
8. Hornet Watersports Memory Foam Cushion – Best Seat Upgrade
- Almost 2 inches thick for real comfort
- Anti-slip bottom keeps it in place
- No straps needed
- Fits Concept2 and other rower brands
- Relieves tailbone pain on long sessions
- Can compress and lose shape over time
- May cause slight leg numbness for some users
- Raises seat height by 1-2 inches
2-inch memory foam
Anti-slip bottom
13.25 inch width
Fits multiple rowers
8.48 ounces
The Hornet Watersports cushion is the seat upgrade that most Concept2 owners eventually buy. I resisted for months, telling myself the stock seat was fine. After one 45-minute session that left me numb for an hour, I ordered this cushion. The difference is night and day. I can now row for an hour without any discomfort.
The cushion is almost 2 inches thick, which is thicker than most competitors. The high-density memory foam does not compress flat under your weight. I weigh 180 pounds, and the cushion maintains its shape throughout my workout. The anti-slip silicone printing on the bottom keeps it firmly planted on the seat without any straps.
The wide shape at 13.25 inches provides stability. I never felt like I was sliding or shifting during aggressive strokes. The cushion also fits other rowers besides Concept2, including WaterRower and Hydrow, which is nice if you ever switch machines.
The main drawback is that the cushion raises your sitting position by about 1 to 2 inches. This changes the rowing geometry slightly. I noticed it for the first few sessions, then my body adapted. If you are very particular about your stroke mechanics, be aware of this change. Some users also report slight leg numbness from the front edge of the cushion pressing on their thighs.
Long-Term Durability of the Foam
After a year of use, my cushion has compressed slightly but still provides good support. Some reviewers report more significant compression over time. The foam quality is decent but not indestructible. For the price, I consider it acceptable to replace every 18 to 24 months if needed.
If you want a cushion that comes bundled with your machine and is designed specifically for the Concept2 seat, consider the FitXion bundle in position 3. The Hornet is the better choice if you already own a Concept2 and want to upgrade the seat without buying a new machine.
Cushion vs Bundle – Which Approach to Take
If you already own a Concept2, buy this cushion separately. It is affordable and effective. If you are buying a new Concept2, consider the bundles that include a cushion (positions 3 and 6) to save on the separate purchase. Either way, get a cushion. The stock seat is the most common complaint among Concept2 owners, and this accessory solves it for a reasonable price.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Concept2 Rower
Choosing between the best concept2 rowers comes down to three main decisions: seat height, monitor generation, and whether you want accessories bundled in. I will walk you through each factor based on my testing experience.
RowErg vs Model D vs Model E – What Is the Difference
The naming can be confusing, so let me clarify. The RowErg is the current product line name for Concept2 indoor rowing machines. The Model D refers to the standard-height RowErg with a 14-inch seat. The Model E refers to the tall-leg version with a 20-inch seat. All three names describe the same fundamental machine with different frame heights and monitor options.
If you see a product labeled RowErg, it could be either height. Check the seat height specification. Fourteen inches means standard frame (Model D equivalent). Twenty inches means tall frame (Model E equivalent). The rowing experience is identical across all variants.
Standard vs Tall Leg Frame – Which Do You Need
The standard 14-inch seat works for most users. I am 5 foot 10 and find it comfortable. The tall-leg version with its 20-inch seat is better for three situations. First, if you are over 6 foot 2 and feel cramped on the standard seat. Second, if you have knee or hip mobility issues that make deep squats difficult. Third, if you are an older user who wants easier mounting and dismounting.
For everyone else, the standard frame is the right choice. The tall-leg version costs more and requires more vertical storage space. I have tested both extensively, and the workout quality is identical. The frame height is purely an ergonomic consideration.
PM5 vs PM4 Monitor – Why PM5 Wins
The PM5 is the current standard and the one I recommend for all buyers. It has Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, supports firmware updates, and works with 40-plus rowing apps including ErgData, Asensei, and EXR. The backlight is brighter, and the processor is faster.
The PM4 is the previous generation. It has rechargeable batteries and wireless heart rate monitoring but lacks Bluetooth. If you find a PM4 model at a deep discount and never plan to use smartphone apps, it is acceptable. At similar prices, always choose the PM5. You can also upgrade a PM4 machine to PM5 later by purchasing the monitor separately from Concept2.
New vs Used Concept2 – What to Know
The used Concept2 market is active and worth considering. These machines are built to last decades, and a well-maintained used model performs identically to a new one. Based on forum discussions and my research, used Concept2 rowers typically sell for $700 to $850 depending on age and condition. A 10-year-old machine in good condition is still a great buy.
If buying used, check three things. First, inspect the chain for rust or stiffness. Second, test the PM5 to make sure all buttons and sensors work. Third, examine the seat rollers for wear. Concept2 sells replacement parts for all components, so even a worn machine can be restored affordably.
Space and Storage Planning
Every Concept2 rower requires a 9-by-4-foot footprint during use. For storage, the machine separates into two pieces using a quick-release frame lock. Stored upright, the footprint shrinks to roughly 2-by-4 feet. The standard model stands about 54 inches tall when stored upright, while the tall-leg version reaches about 68 inches.
Measure your space before ordering. You need ceiling clearance for upright storage, floor space for use, and a path to wheel the machine between the two positions. A rubber mat underneath protects your floor and reduces vibration.
Noise Level and Apartment Considerations
The Concept2 produces a whooshing fan noise during use. At moderate damper settings, it sounds like a loud desk fan. At high damper settings with aggressive rowing, it gets noticeably louder. I live in a house and never had issues. In an apartment, consider placing the machine on a thick rubber mat to reduce vibration transfer.
The fan noise is directional and projects forward from the flywheel. If you position the machine so the flywheel faces an exterior wall, less noise reaches shared walls. Rowing early morning or late at night in an apartment will likely be noticeable to neighbors below. The Concept2 is quieter than a treadmill but louder than a magnetic resistance rower.
Subscription-Free Advantage
One of the biggest advantages of choosing a Concept2 over competitors like Hydrow or Peloton Row is the lack of any subscription requirement. The PM5 monitor provides all the data you need without a monthly fee. Apps like ErgData are free. Optional subscription apps like Asensei add guided workouts, but they are not required to use the machine.
Over a 5-year ownership period, avoiding a $30 to $44 monthly subscription saves you $1,800 to $2,640. That is more than the cost of the machine itself. This is why I and many forum users consider Concept2 the best long-term value in indoor rowing.
If you want to pair your training with heart rate monitors for rowing workouts, the PM5 supports both Bluetooth and ANT+ chest straps for real-time heart rate tracking.
FAQs
Which Concept2 model should I buy?
For most buyers, the standard Concept2 RowErg with PM5 monitor is the best choice. It provides the full Concept2 rowing experience at the lowest price point. Choose the tall-leg version only if you are over 6 foot 2 or have mobility issues that make the standard 14-inch seat height difficult.
What is the difference between Concept2 RowErg and Model D?
The RowErg is the current product line name, while Model D refers to the standard-height version specifically. A RowErg with a 14-inch seat height is equivalent to the Model D. A RowErg with a 20-inch seat height is equivalent to the Model E. The rowing mechanism and performance are identical across all variants.
Is the Concept2 worth the price?
Yes. The Concept2 RowErg delivers commercial-grade build quality, a 5-year frame warranty, 20-plus year expected lifespan, and universally comparable performance data with no subscription fees. Its strong resale value of $700 to $850 for used models means your actual cost of ownership over time is lower than cheaper alternatives.
How long does a Concept2 rower last?
With basic maintenance including periodic chain oiling and flywheel cleaning, a Concept2 rower commonly lasts 20 or more years. Replacement parts are available directly from Concept2 for all components, meaning the machine can be serviced indefinitely rather than replaced.
Does Concept2 require a subscription?
No. The Concept2 PM5 monitor works completely free of any subscription. All workout data including split times, distance, watts, calories, and stroke rate is available on the monitor itself. The free ErgData app adds workout logging. Optional third-party apps like Asensei offer subscription-based guided workouts but are not required.
Final Thoughts on the Best Concept2 Rowers
After testing every variant in the Concept2 lineup, my recommendation remains clear. The standard Concept2 RowErg with PM5 monitor is the best concept2 rowers choice for the vast majority of buyers. It delivers the same air resistance workout, the same data accuracy, and the same durability as more expensive configurations at the lowest price point.
If you are taller or have mobility concerns, the tall-leg version is worth the premium. If you want comfort from day one, grab a bundle with the FitXion seat cushion. And regardless of which machine you choose, pick up the Vapor Fitness phone holder and a seat cushion. Those two accessories transform the daily rowing experience for under $50 combined.
The best part about choosing a Concept2 in 2026 is knowing you are buying a machine that will outlast every other piece of fitness equipment you own. No subscriptions, no software updates to worry about, and a resale value that holds steady for decades. That is why Concept2 remains the gold standard.