Concept2 RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine - PM5 Monitor, Device Holder, Adjustable Air Resistance, Easy Storage
Best for
Best overall
Amazon rating
Amazon aggregate — one input among many in the Verdict Score
Current price
$990.00
Updated May 14, 2026 · 1 min read
Synthesis sources
Methodology →The consensus
What reviewers found
Synthesized across the trust-weighted source mix below.
Across the reviewers we read, the Concept2 RowErg is the consensus benchmark for indoor rowing — the machine other rowers are measured against. Treadmill Review Guru calls it 'trustworthy and effective… durable but lightweight, low-tech but incredibly accurate,' Coach praises the build quality and built-in workout modes, and Men's Health highlights the PM5 monitor's accurate metrics without 'distracting touchscreen features.' The r/concept2 community repeatedly emphasizes that the machine routinely survives a decade or more of heavy use, which is why it is the standard in CrossFit boxes, collegiate rowing programs and Olympic training centers. The critiques are consistent and worth knowing about.
What reviewers liked
- Treadmill Review Guru and Men's Health both call the PM5 monitor one of the most accurate in the category, with Bluetooth and ANT+ heart-rate support
- r/concept2 users repeatedly cite 10+ year lifespans with only minor chain maintenance
- Air resistance scales naturally with effort, which expert reviewers say most closely mimics on-water rowing
- Separates into two pieces and stands upright for storage despite a long 54-inch inseam-friendly rail
- Used as the standard in CrossFit, college rowing and Olympic training, so workouts and benchmarks translate everywhere
Where it falls short
- Air resistance is audibly loud — reviewers caution against apartment use
- PM5 is a data monitor, not a touchscreen entertainment console, which some buyers expect at this price
- Damper lever must be adjusted manually each workout
- Price has risen significantly; several reviewers note budget alternatives now exist at one-quarter the cost
- Chain drive requires periodic oiling unlike belt-drive competitors
Across the reviewers we read, the Concept2 RowErg is the consensus benchmark for indoor rowing — the machine other rowers are measured against. Treadmill Review Guru calls it 'trustworthy and effective… durable but lightweight, low-tech but incredibly accurate,' Coach praises the build quality and built-in workout modes, and Men's Health highlights the PM5 monitor's accurate metrics without 'distracting touchscreen features.' The r/concept2 community repeatedly emphasizes that the machine routinely survives a decade or more of heavy use, which is why it is the standard in CrossFit boxes, collegiate rowing programs and Olympic training centers.
The critiques are consistent and worth knowing about. Reddit posters note the PM5 is 'extremely capable but not a big sexy touchscreen,' and that the damper setting must be adjusted manually each session. Reviewers also flag that air resistance is loud — fine for a garage, marginal for a thin-walled apartment — and that the chain (rather than belt) drive requires occasional oiling. Garage Gym Reviews and Men's Health both note the price has climbed in recent years, putting it well above budget magnetic options.
Still, no high-trust reviewer suggests a better all-around choice. As a r/homegym poster summarized, budget rowers are fine to 'break into it,' but most serious users 'hope to upgrade to a C2.'
- Feature 1
- Integrated Device Holder allows you to keep your Smart Phone or Tablet securely in place. Compatible with over 40+ apps.
- Feature 2
- 14-inch seat height fits most uses. Adjustable footrests and ergonomic handle
- Feature 3
- Indoor rowing is an effective full-body and low-impact workout; flywheel design minimizes noise while maximizing a smooth feel
- Feature 4
- Includes the Performance Monitor 5, giving you accurate, comparable data for every row. Bluetooth and ANT+ functionality to connect wirelessly to apps and heart rate monitors.
- Feature 5
- Easily separates into two pieces for storage. Caster wheels make it mobile. Construction: Aluminum front legs and steel rear legs.
- Feature 6
- Space recommended for use is 9x4 feet; 500-pound user capacity; 5-year frame Warranty. Power Requirement:Takes two D cell batteries. During workout, the monitor draws power from the spinning flywheel to extend battery life
- Feature 7
- Included: Concept2 RowErg, Performance Monitor 5 Computer (PM5), Device Holder, User Manual, Pm5 Quick Start Guide, all tools for assembly and simple to follow instructions.
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