Hydrow vs. Other Rowing Machines: Which Is Best for Your Home Gym?

Choosing the right rowing machine can be a challenge given the wide variety of options available today. From classic air-resistance models to high-tech connected rowers with immersive workouts, each machine offers unique features, designs, and training experiences. 

In this guide, we break down and compare some of the most popular rowing machines on the market—including Hydrow, Peloton, Concept2, Aviron, Rogue Echo, Ergatta, Echelon, and NordicTrack—across key factors like price, membership costs, resistance mechanisms, screen size, content offerings, and more. 

Whether you’re a beginner looking for a simple, reliable rower or an experienced athlete seeking an engaging, interactive workout, this comparison will help you understand how these machines stack up and which might be the best fit for your fitness goals and space.

Key features comparison

From price and membership fees to resistance type, screen size, and storage options, this overview provides a clear snapshot of what each rowing machine offers, making it easier to find the right one for your needs, lifestyle, and budget. 

Note all prices in this comparison are subject to change due to sales, promotions, etc. 

Hydrow vs. everyone else: A deep dive

With so many rowing machines available, it’s important to understand what sets each apart—especially when comparing Hydrow to its competitors. Let’s take a closer look at how Hydrow stacks up against other popular models in terms of design, technology, workout experience, and overall value. 

Whether you prioritize immersive content, resistance type, build quality, or community features, this deep dive will highlight the strengths and trade-offs to help you make an informed decision.

Hydrow

Hydrow’s rowers—including the Hydrow Pro and Hydrow Wave—are designed to deliver an immersive, realistic rowing experience through patented electromagnetic drag technology, which closely mimics the feeling of rowing on water. Unlike air-based machines like the Concept2 or Rogue Echo, or hybrid systems like Aviron’s, Hydrow’s resistance is quiet, smooth, and dynamically responsive to user effort. Our rowers are also built with high-end materials, including a flat rail and ergonomic seating, and feature a large HD touchscreen for streaming content—22″ on the Pro and 16″ on the Wave.

What sets Hydrow apart from competitors like Peloton, Echelon, and Aviron is its emphasis on on-water workouts filmed in real locations, led by world-class athletes and Olympians. The programming focuses exclusively on rowing and complementary off-machine training (like yoga and strength), without gamification or third-party streaming. 

Compared to the game-style workouts of Ergatta and Aviron, Hydrow offers a more authentic rowing-centric approach, appealing to those who value technique, rhythm, and a connection to the sport. With over 5,000 workouts, an integrated leaderboard, and optional scenic or open row modes, Hydrow supports both guided and self-directed training. 

Membership costs $44/month, and all Hydrow machines include a 30-day risk-free trial and generous warranties: five years on the frame and one year on components, screen, and labor.

Altogether, Hydrow blends advanced engineering, professional coaching, and scenic immersion to offer a rowing-focused alternative in a crowded market of hybrid fitness machines.

Aviron

Aviron’s rowers—specifically the Strong and Impact Series—feature a hybrid air and magnetic resistance system and appear like a traditional rower with a visible fan, supported by a steel–aluminum frame. The Strong Rower weighs about 114 lb, supports up to 507 lb, and is 84″ long × 27″ wide × 48″ high. It folds upright to a compact 35″L × 27″W × 83″H, includes a 22″ adjustable HD touchscreen, and offers a quick 45‑minute user assembly. 

In terms of content, Aviron focuses on game-based workouts, live competitions with leaderboards, scenic routes, and instructor-led rowing sessions—primarily featuring Austin from Training Tall. Aviron’s membership (around $24–29/month) provides access to these features, plus guided mat workouts. Users can also stream entertainment content such as Netflix and Spotify during workouts. Aviron also offers a one-year parts warranty and a 10-year frame warranty. 

How Aviron compares to Hydrow

Aviron and Hydrow take different approaches to the rowing experience: Aviron focuses on game-based workouts, entertainment streaming, and competitive features like leaderboards, while Hydrow emphasizes instructor-led sessions filmed on real waterways with a strong focus on form and rhythm. While both offer full-body workouts with off-machine options, Hydrow’s programming is more immersive and rowing-centric.

Learn more: Aviron vs. Hydrow: A Detailed Comparison for Rowers

Concept2

Concept2’s flagship offering is the RowErg (formerly Model D/E), a rugged air-resistance rowing machine widely regarded as the industry standard. It features a fully mechanical flywheel, PM5 performance monitor that displays metrics such as time, watts, pace, and split, and an adjustable damper lever that alters airflow and stroke feel. The RowErg is noted for its durable build, crafted from steel and aluminum, and its compact footprint. 

Unlike connected rowers, Concept2 doesn’t rely on a subscription model. Its console supports preset workouts and integrations with third-party apps like ErgData. While it lacks the immersive video coaching and touchscreen interface of Hydrow, it serves as a no-frills, reliable option for serious training, and is commonly used in gyms and competitive settings. 

How Concept2 compares to Hydrow

Concept2 is built for performance and simplicity, offering air resistance and workout metrics through its PM5 monitor and appealing to competitive rowers and gym-goers. Hydrow, on the other hand, emphasizes an immersive and connected experience, combining on-water visuals, Athlete-led instruction, and a supportive fitness community for those seeking both engagement and progression in their rowing journey.

Learn more: Hydrow vs. Concept2: How Do These Two Rowing Machines Compare?

Echelon Row-S

The Echelon Row‑S is a magnetic resistance rower featuring 32 manually adjustable resistance levels via the handle, though resistance levels aren't displayed onscreen without an active membership. Built with an aluminum and steel frame, this rower measures 84″ L × 21″ W × 45″ H, making it slightly smaller than Hydrow Pro, and folds in half for compact storage.

Echelon offers a Premier Membership at $39.99/month, granting access to live and on-demand workouts across multiple disciplines, as well as entertainment apps like Netflix and Hulu through its FitOS interface, and gamified classes in “Echelon Worlds.” The Row‑S includes a 22″ adjustable HD touchscreen, free shipping with membership, and a one-year warranty that extends to five years with an active subscription. 

How the Echelon Row-S compares to Hydrow

While the Echelon Row-S offers a broad mix of fitness content and entertainment features, its rowing experience is part of a more generalized approach. Hydrow stands out with its singular focus on high-quality, on-water rowing led by world-class Athletes, delivering a more immersive and authentic experience.

Learn more: Echelon Row-S vs. Hydrow: A Comparison

Ergatta

The Ergatta Rower is a water-resistance machine priced at $2,499 (with optional bundles that include accessories like mats and seat cushions). It features a 17.3" HD touchscreen, Bluetooth compatibility, and a built-in gaming interface centered around race-style workouts, milestones, and leaderboard challenges. The machine has a handcrafted cherrywood frame, weighs about 103 lbs with water in the tank, and supports users up to 500 lbs, accommodating taller rowers with up to a 40" inseam.

Ergatta’s content offering emphasizes gamified workouts that include single- and multi-player games, interval challenges, and competitive races, alongside a “Free Row” mode and occasional guided sessions. 

How Ergatta compares to Hydrow

While Ergatta’s platform provides rich data and engagement through its interactive format, users seeking instructor-led rowing lessons or non-rowing fitness content will find fewer options compared to Hydrow.

Ergatta takes a gamified approach to rowing, using races, challenges, and goal-based programs to keep users engaged, with minimal instructor presence. Hydrow, by contrast, delivers a more immersive and technique-driven experience with real Athletes, scenic waterway workouts, and structured coaching, making it the stronger choice for those looking to build real rowing skill and connection to the sport.

Learn more: Ergatta Rower Review: How Does it Compare to the Hydrow?

NordicTrack

NordicTrack’s flagship rower, the RW900, is a sleek and foldable machine weighing around 131 lbs. It includes a 10-year frame warranty, with additional two-year parts and one-year labor coverage. The machine uses a magnetic resistance system with 26 adjustable digital levels, allowing users to manually fine-tune their intensity. A 22″ rotating and tilting touchscreen provides access to iFit’s extensive content library, which includes rowing classes, scenic routes, strength training, yoga, and more.

User reviews highlight the variety and entertainment value of iFit’s programming, though some customers have reported concerns related to long-term durability and customer service experiences. The RW900 can also be folded and stored away between workouts, making it well-suited for smaller living spaces.

How NordicTrack compares to Hydrow

While the RW900 delivers versatility through its broad iFit content and foldable design, Hydrow is purpose-built for a more immersive and authentic rowing experience. Hydrow features electromagnetic resistance that more closely simulates on-water rowing and a heavier, more durable frame that supports up to 375 lbs (compared to RW900’s 250 lbs).

Though Hydrow requires a separate upright storage kit for compact storage, it’s often preferred by users who want a high-quality, rowing-first machine with premium coaching and Athlete-led workouts.

Peloton

Peloton’s Row machine is a recent addition to the company’s broader connected fitness lineup. It’s priced at $3,295, with delivery and in-home setup included. The machine features a 30-day home trial, a 12-month parts and labor warranty, and a five-year frame warranty, with the option to extend coverage for up to four years, including protection against accidental damage. 

The Peloton Row has a 96" x 24" footprint, supports vertical storage, and includes a 23.8" adjustable rotating HD touchscreen. It’s built with an aluminum rail, molded plastic hub, ergonomic seat, TPE handle, and adjustable footbeds. 

In terms of content, Peloton offers rowing workouts through its All-Access Membership, which can be shared across other Peloton devices. The membership includes instructor-led classes that aim to simulate a group fitness environment, as well as a “Just Row” feature for self-guided sessions. Beyond rowing, Peloton’s platform provides access to a wide range of workout categories like strength, yoga, Pilates, and running, supporting users who want a more general fitness experience in addition to rowing.

How Peloton compares to Hydrow

Peloton Row brings its signature studio-style approach to rowing, featuring instructor-led classes and real-time form feedback across a sleek, connected platform. Hydrow, however, offers a more immersive and rowing-focused experience, with scenic on-water workouts led by professional Athletes—making it a better fit for those who prioritize realistic rowing, expert instruction, and a workout experience that mirrors the rhythm and feel of being on the water.

Learn more: Peloton Row vs. Hydrow: A Comparison

Rogue Echo

The Rogue Echo rower uses air resistance, driven by a visible flywheel that responds to user effort, and is built on a sturdy aluminum frame designed for intense workouts. Its 99″ L × 26″ W × 34.5″ H footprint makes it slightly smaller than the Hydrow Pro but larger than the Wave option. The machine can also fold for storage down to 38″ × 26″, and comes with a basic LCD console rather than a touchscreen. 

The Echo includes a five-year frame warranty and a two-year warranty for moving parts and its monitor, and is shipped at no additional cost. Its focus on performance and durability offers a no-frills experience for users seeking robust construction and intense training, though it doesn’t provide interactive content or guided classes like those found on connected machines.

How Rogue Echo compares to Hydrow

The Rogue Echo Rower offers a durable option with air resistance and basic performance tracking, ideal for high-intensity training without added tech. In comparison, Hydrow provides a more engaging and versatile experience, combining smooth electromagnetic resistance with scenic workouts, expert coaching, and a connected fitness platform designed for long-term motivation and progress.

Learn more: Hydrow vs. Rogue Echo: A Comparison

Why Hydrow outshines the competition 

With so many rowing machines on the market, choosing the right one depends on your priorities—whether it’s price, versatility, or specific workout features. However, when it comes to delivering a truly immersive, authentic rowing experience combined with world-class coaching, high-end build quality, and a supportive fitness community, Hydrow stands out as the clear leader.

Our patented electromagnetic resistance closely mimics the feel of rowing on water, while our scenic, Athlete-led workouts engage both beginners and seasoned rowers alike. The combination of expert instruction, expansive content, and premium design creates a workout experience that’s as effective as it is enjoyable.

If you’re ready to elevate your fitness routine with a rowing machine designed for performance, immersion, and long-term motivation, Hydrow is the best choice available today. Learn more about how Hydrow can transform your workouts, and start your rowing journey today!