Concept2 RowErg review: a full-size rowing machine with an open training ecosystem

The Concept2 RowErg is a focused piece of equipment for someone who wants rowing to be a regular part of home training. It makes the strongest case when the buyer values a dedicated monitor and a range of ways to record sessions. It is a substantial purchase in physical space as well as money, so the room plan should come before the order.

Monitor and configuration

Concept2 includes its PM5 monitor and a device holder. The RowErg can connect with the company’s free ErgData app and other compatible apps. It is offered with standard or tall legs, giving seat heights of 14 or 20 inches. Concept2 explicitly notes that the taller legs are not required simply because the user is tall.

That distinction prevents an easy buying mistake. Seat height concerns getting on and off the machine, while fit during the rowing motion is a separate consideration. Check the current user-fit information and any available rail option if needed. A higher frame should be chosen for a clear practical reason rather than treated as the premium configuration by default.

Measure use and storage separately

The machine’s overall length is 96 inches. Its ability to separate into two pieces helps storage, but that does not shrink the space needed while rowing. Mark out the working area, allow the manufacturer’s recommended clearance and consider how the machine will move between use and storage. A setup that requires rearranging the entire room can become a barrier to regular sessions.

The monitor and app ecosystem are useful if they support the way you like to train. Decide whether you want a simple record, structured sessions or a particular compatible service. Check any third-party subscription independently. A broad app choice is a flexibility benefit, not a reason to subscribe to several services at once.

Verdict

The RowErg is a strong candidate for a buyer who has the space and wants rowing equipment with a clear monitor-centered workflow. Its physical size is the principal tradeoff. If the machine can remain accessible and its fit suits the user, the package is coherent; if every session begins with a difficult room conversion, a smaller training arrangement may be more practical.

Editorial rating: 4.3 / 5

Editorial assessment of the documented feature set, design tradeoffs, versatility and ownership requirements for the intended buyer. Features and design each contribute 30%; versatility and ownership each contribute 20%.

• Features: 4.5 / 5 (30%) — The included PM5 monitor and device holder create a complete rowing interface, with the free ErgData option adding a clear route to recording sessions.
• Design: 4.2 / 5 (30%) — Two seat-height options and separable storage address practical needs, while the 96-inch working length remains a substantial requirement for the room.
• Versatility: 4.1 / 5 (20%) — Compatible app choices widen the training interface and service options, but the equipment remains specialized for rowing rather than replacing every home-training activity.
• Ownership: 4.3 / 5 (20%) — A free first-party app and documented storage arrangement support ownership without requiring one particular paid service; regular care and suitable space remain commitments.

Sources

• Concept2 RowErg product specifications