Our Verdict
The Concept2 exists in a different category. It's the machine every serious rower trains on — from Olympic athletes to CrossFit boxes. The PM5 monitor's standardised data means your split times are directly comparable to anyone, anywhere.
Why trust 247Verdict? We don't run a physical test lab — every recommendation is built from verified Amazon owner data (rating, review volume, and recurring themes across owner reviews) checked against manufacturer specifications, and every review says plainly who it's not right for. Every product needs 4.0+ stars from 200+ verified reviews before we'll recommend it. Full detail on our methodology page.
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- Global performance standard — data is comparable across all Concept2 machines
- Air resistance provides natural feel that scales with effort
- Folds vertically — stores in minimal footprint
- PM5 monitor tracks split times, watts, calories with precision
- Virtually indestructible — commercial durability for home use
✗ Cons
- Noisy air flywheel — audible at intensity, especially in flats
- Requires 244cm floor length when in use
- No integrated smart features without third-party accessories
4.8★ from 9,100 verified Amazon owners
Key Specifications
| Resistance | Air (damper 1-10) |
|---|---|
| Monitor | PM5 wireless |
| Footprint | 244 x 61cm |
| Folded | 120 x 61cm |
| Weight Limit | 272kg |
| Warranty | 5yr frame, 2yr parts |
How It Compares to the WaterRower Club Rowing Machine
The closest alternative in this category is the WaterRower Club Rowing Machine (9.1/10). Here's how the two stack up on the specs they share:
| Concept2 Model D... | WaterRower Club... | |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance | Air (damper 1-10) | Water |
| Monitor | PM5 wireless | S4 |
| Warranty | 5yr frame, 2yr parts | 5 years (frame) |
Performance
The Concept2 exists in a different category. It's the machine every serious rower trains on — from Olympic athletes to CrossFit boxes. The PM5 monitor's standardised data means your split times are directly comparable to anyone, anywhere. On paper the headline numbers are resistance of Air (damper 1-10), monitor of PM5 wireless, footprint of 244 x 61cm, folded of 120 x 61cm, weight limit of 272kg, warranty of 5yr frame, 2yr parts. Its standout is that global performance standard — data is comparable across all concept2 machines. Owners often find an exercise mat a worthwhile addition to this setup.
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Owner Essentials
Build Quality & Design
Beyond that, owners and the spec sheet point to a few more genuine strengths. Air resistance provides natural feel that scales with effort. Folds vertically — stores in minimal footprint. For those looking to complement it, a gym bag is commonly paired with this product. We can't bench-test durability, but the depth of positive long-term owner feedback is the best available proxy for how it holds up. Between sessions, many home-gym owners also use EMS recovery devices for muscle recovery.
Value for Money
It isn't flawless. Noisy air flywheel — audible at intensity, especially in flats. Requires 244cm floor length when in use. No integrated smart features without third-party accessories. Whether those matter depends entirely on how you'll use it. At the premium price point, the trade-offs are easy to live with for the right buyer. It's the right call for Look elsewhere if you're among
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Final Verdict
The Concept2 exists in a different category. It's the machine every serious rower trains on — from Olympic athletes to CrossFit boxes. The PM5 monitor's standardised data means your split times are directly comparable to anyone, anywhere.
FAQ
Is the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine worth the money?
The Concept2 exists in a different category. It's the machine every serious rower trains on — from Olympic athletes to CrossFit boxes. The PM5 monitor's standardised data means your split times are directly comparable to anyone, anywhere.
Who should NOT buy the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine?
Is the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine available in the UK and US?
Yes — we list both Amazon UK and US links. Always verify voltage compatibility (UK 230V, US 120V).
What's the biggest drawback of the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine?
Noisy air flywheel — audible at intensity, especially in flats
What do owners say about the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine?
4.8★ from 9,100 verified Amazon owners. Global performance standard — data is comparable across all Concept2 machines
How does the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine compare to similar fitness gears?
At 9.6/10, it ranks among the strongest options we've reviewed in this category. See our Concept2 Model D Rowing comparisons for direct head-to-head detail against specific alternatives.
Alternatives to Consider
WaterRower Club Rowing Machine
9.1/10Water resistance, steel and hardwood, commercial grade, S4 monitor. Club-quality rowing machine.
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Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine
9.0/1016.5" HD touchscreen, live and on-demand rowing classes, electromagnetic resistance, Bluetooth HR. The Peloton of rowing.
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WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine
9.0/10Handcrafted ash wood. Water flywheel. The quietest, most beautiful rowing machine made.
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