Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine vs WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine: Which to Buy? (2026)
Choosing between the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine and WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine? We compare specs, scores and real-world performance to give you a clear verdict.
Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine
The world standard for rowing. Used in Olympic facilities, commercial gyms, and living rooms.
WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine
Handcrafted ash wood. Water flywheel. The quietest, most beautiful rowing machine made.
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Our Verdict
The Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine scores 9.6/10 vs 9.0/10 for the WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine. Serious fitness users who want accurate performance tracking and a machine that will last decades.
🛒 Buy the Winner on Amazon →Head-to-Head: Concept2 vs WaterRower
| Criterion | Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine | WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Our Score | 9.6/10 | 9.0/10 | Concept2 |
| Amazon Rating | 4.8★ (9,100) | 4.7★ (4,800) | Concept2 |
| Price Range | Premium | Luxury | Draw |
| Resistance | Air (damper 1-10) | Water | Draw |
| Monitor | PM5 wireless | — | Draw |
| Footprint | 244 x 61cm | 208 x 57cm | Concept2 |
| Folded | 120 x 61cm | — | Draw |
| Weight Limit | 272kg | 272kg | Draw |
| Warranty | 5yr frame, 2yr parts | 5yr frame, 3yr parts | Draw |
| Construction | — | Handcrafted ash wood | Draw |
Full Specifications Compared
| Specification | Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine | WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Concept2 | WaterRower |
| Our Score | 9.6/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Amazon Rating | 4.8★ (9,100) | 4.7★ (4,800) |
| Price Range | Premium | Luxury |
| Resistance | Air (damper 1-10) | Water |
| Monitor | PM5 wireless | — |
| Footprint | 244 x 61cm | 208 x 57cm |
| Folded | 120 x 61cm | — |
| Weight Limit | 272kg | 272kg |
| Warranty | 5yr frame, 2yr parts | 5yr frame, 3yr parts |
| Construction | — | Handcrafted ash wood |
| Stored | — | 56 x 56cm vertical |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine if…
Serious fitness users who want accurate performance tracking and a machine that will last decades.
🛒 Check Price on Amazon →Choose the WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine if…
Those prioritising noise level, aesthetics and natural feel — apartments, open-plan living rooms, or anyone who wants gym equipment that doubles as furniture.
🛒 Check Price on Amazon →Pros & Cons
Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine
✓ 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
WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine
✓ Pros
- Water resistance is the most natural rowing feel available — self-regulates with effort
- Significantly quieter than air resistance — suitable for shared living
- Handcrafted ash wood is genuinely beautiful — furniture quality
- Stores vertically in 56cm x 56cm footprint
- Self-regulating resistance — no settings to adjust
✗ Cons
- Performance data less precise than Concept2 PM5 monitor
- Handcrafted wood requires periodic maintenance
- Higher price than Concept2 for equivalent fitness benefit
Ready to Buy?
Check current prices on Amazon — prices update daily.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine better than the WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine?
The Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine scores 9.6/10 vs 9.0/10 for the WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine. Serious fitness users who want accurate performance tracking and a machine that will last decades.
Who should buy the Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine?
Serious fitness users who want accurate performance tracking and a machine that will last decades.
Who should buy the WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine?
Those prioritising noise level, aesthetics and natural feel — apartments, open-plan living rooms, or anyone who wants gym equipment that doubles as furniture.
What is the price difference?
The Concept2 Model D Rowing Machine is Premium. The WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine is Luxury. Check current Amazon prices above.