Aviron vs Concept 2: Which Is Best For You?

Today, I want to share my thoughts on two popular rowing machine brands: Aviron Rowers vs Concept 2 Row Erg (used to be known as the Model D).

As someone who has experience with both brands, I think I can help you to compare and contrast them before making a purchase.

Aviron Rowers have been gaining popularity in recent years, with the release of their new Strong Series. Meanwhile, Concept 2 has been a household name since the 1980s and is often found in gyms and used by pro athletes.

But which one is right for you? In this post, I will provide a detailed comparison of the two brands, including their pros and cons, to help you make an informed decision.

In a Hurry? Aviron vs Concept 2 Verdict

If you’re in a rush and need to decide which rower to choose between the Concept 2 Model D and the Aviron Series, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s a quick comparison of the two machines:

Rower	Features
Concept 2 Model D	– Air resistance – Adjustable footrests – Ergonomic handle – Performance monitor – Can handle up to 500 pounds
Aviron Series	– Digital magnetic resistance and air resistance – Interactive touchscreen – Live and on-demand classes and games – Can handle up to 397 pounds

Both rowing machines are excellent choices for those looking for a high-quality indoor rowing experience.

The Concept 2 Model D is a classic in the industry and is known for its durability and performance. The Aviron Series, on the other hand, offers a unique interactive experience with its touchscreen games and live classes.

So the experience that you get is quite different. If you just want to row while you listen to music or watch your normal TV then the Concept 2 is the one to go for (it’s quite a bit cheaper).

But if you like the idea of having an integrated screen with live workouts and fun games and challenges to keep you motivated then Aviron is hard to beat (i prefer it to Peloton Row or Ergatta)

Aviron Rower Vs Concept 2: Which Rower Is Worth the Money?

When it comes to choosing between the Aviron rower and the Concept 2 rower, it can be tough to make a decision.

Both rowers have their own unique features and benefits that make them worth considering. To help you make an informed decision, I’ve put together a comparison table that outlines the key differences between the two rowers.

Aviron Vs Concept 2 Comparison Table

Here is a comparison table that highlights the key differences between the Aviron Impact Series, Aviron Strong Series, and Concept 2 Model D rowers.

Feature	Aviron Impact Series	Aviron Strong Series	Concept 2 Model D
Type of Resistance	Dual magnetic and air resistance	Dual magnetic and air resistance	Air resistance only
Seat Height	20 Inches	20 Inches	14 Inches or 20 inches (2 options available: standard legs and tall legs)
Overall Dimensions	97”L x 21”W x 43”H	84”L x 27”W x 48”H	95”L x 24”W x 14”H
Weight of Machine	93 Pounds	114 Pounds	57 Pounds
Maximum User Weight Capacity	397 Pounds	507 Pounds	500 Pounds
Size of Monitor	22-Inch HD Touchscreen	22-Inch HD Rotating Touchscreen	5-Inch Display (PM5 Monitor Only)
Warranty	10-year frame 1-year warranty on all other parts	10-year frame 1-year warranty on all other parts	5-year frame 2-year warranty on all other parts
Folds for Storage?	Yes	No, but it stores upright without need for any wall attachment or kit	Yes
Current Price (Subject to Change)	$2,199	$2,499	$945
Monthly Subscription Fee	$29/month if billed/paid monthly; $24/month if billed/paid annually	$29/month if billed/paid monthly; $24/month if billed/paid annually	None

As you can see, there are some key differences between the Aviron rowers and the Concept 2 rower. Here are some of the things to consider when making your decision:

• Resistance: The Aviron rowers have dual magnetic and air resistance, while the Concept 2 rower has air resistance only. This means that the Aviron rowers offer more resistance options.
• Performance: Both rowers provide an excellent full-body workout and are great for cardio workouts. However, the Aviron rowers have a 22-inch HD touchscreen, which provides more entertainment options during your workout.
• Price: The Aviron rowers are more expensive than the Concept 2 rower, but they come with a monthly subscription fee that provides access to a variety of workouts.
• Warranty: The Aviron rowers have a longer warranty period than the Concept 2 rower, which may provide more peace of mind when making your purchase.
• Durability: Both rowers are built to last and are made from high-quality materials. The Aviron has more tech so potentially there is more to go wrong.
• Proper Form: Both rowers require proper form to get the most out of your workout. The Aviron rowers have a taller seat height, which may be beneficial for those with bad knees.
• Functionality: Both rowers offer a total body workout and work major muscle groups. However, the Aviron rowers offer inbuilt challenges and HIIT and interval training options.
• Cardiovascular Fitness: Both rowers are great for improving cardiovascular fitness and endurance. The key thing is how much you use it and for me, the Aviron entertainment options help motivate me to use it.
• Value: Both rowers are great value for money, but the Aviron rowers are more expensive and require a monthly subscription

Overall, the decision between the Aviron rower and the Concept 2 rower comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to you.

Both rowers are high-quality and provide an excellent workout, so you can’t go wrong with either one.

The Concept 2 Model D Rowing Machine

When it comes to indoor rowing machines, the Concept 2 Model D (now called Row Erg) is one of the most popular and well-known options on the market. This air-resistance rowing machine has been around since the 1980s and has undergone very little change over the years.

The Pros of Concept 2 Rowing Machine

There are several advantages to using the Concept 2 Model D rowing machine, including:

• Intense workouts: The Concept 2 Model D is a no-frills rowing machine that provides users with intense workouts. It features an air resistance system that adjusts to the user’s intensity level, allowing for a challenging full-body workout.
• Performance monitor: The PM5 performance monitor is a standout feature of the Concept 2 Model D. It displays all of your workout data in different formats, including all-data, bar chart, force curve, or large print. Users can also set their workout to simulate rowing with a pace boat or pacer.
• ErgData app: Serious athletes can use ErgData, Concept2’s web-based app for recording additional stats. It allows them to upload workout data to the online logbook and see how they rank against other users worldwide.
• Compatibility with software and online apps: The PM5 performance monitor can communicate with many software and online apps, including EXR, Regatta, Ic.row, and Kinomap. These apps can bring you rowing on realistic river courses with your Concept2 rowing machine.
• Durability: The Concept 2 Model D is a commercial-grade rowing machine that is designed to put up with heavy, daily use. It’s a mainstay in most local gyms, and owners have reported replacing only a few parts after 15 years of daily use.
• Easy to store: The Concept 2 Model D is designed to be easy to store. It comes apart easily and can be stored under a bed or in a closet. This is important when space is at a premium.
• Price: Compared to many other brands, especially smart rowers like Aviron and Hydrow, the Concept 2 Model D is less expensive.

The Cons of Concept 2 Rowing Machine

While the Concept 2 Model D has many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider, including:

• Noise: The Concept 2 Model D is one of the noisiest rowing machines on the market. If you share a room or live in an apartment, you might want to think twice before buying this rowing machine.
• Boring: Some users may find the Concept 2 Model D to be boring compared to smart rowing machines that offer games, racing, or other visual workouts.
• Warranty: The Concept 2 Model D only has a 5-year warranty on frame parts and a 2-year warranty on other parts. While you shouldn’t have any problems, that’s not very long for a product that is a top seller.
• Floor space: The Concept 2 Model D requires a lot of floor space to use. While it’s lightweight and quite compact when folded, it is very long and wide when used.

Overall, the Concept 2 Model D is a reliable and durable rowing machine that provides users with intense workouts.

While it may not be the most exciting option on the market, it’s a top choice among rowers for its durability, ease of use, and compatibility with different software and online apps.

With a solid steel frame supporting users up to 500 lb, the Concept2 RowErg is a steal at just under $1k.

The Aviron Rowing Machine

When it comes to rowing machines, the Aviron Rowing Machine is a top-of-the-line option.

Aviron offers two different rowing machines, the Impact Series and the Strong Series. Both of these machines are designed to provide users with a gamified platform that makes rowing more enjoyable and less monotonous.

What Are the Differences Between the Impact and Strong Series?

The Impact Series has been in production since 2018, while the Strong Series is Aviron’s latest addition to its lineup. Both machines offer a variety of workouts, including off-the-rower workouts and fun games.

However, there are some differences between the two machines that users should be aware of.

The Strong Series has a monitor that can swivel side to side, making it easier to view off-the-rower workouts. It can also handle more user weight than the Impact Series but weighs more itself.

The Strong Series does not fold, but it can be stored upright against a wall or in a corner with no securing device required. It is also shorter than the Impact Series, making it a better option for those with limited space.

The Strong Series is quieter than the Impact Series, and its fan can be directed towards the user for added comfort. The footplates on the Strong Series are the most adjustable we’ve seen, allowing users to adjust for width and length. The seat rail has a slightly downward tilt, which can help beginners maintain proper form.

I have written a detailed comparison of the Aviron Strong and Impact Rowers rowers

Aviron Workout Options

Aviron rowers are packed with all sorts of content to keep you engaged. This is why I love them so much. Aviron makes working out at home fun!

With an Aviron home rowing machine, you can choose from eight distinct workout modes, each catering to various fitness preferences and goals.

Games

Experience interactive video games where you can shoot robots, evade zombies, or demolish bricks.

These immersive games respond to your rowing speed and force, making your workouts engaging and enjoyable.

Aviron’s games set them apart from other streaming rowers and are unanimously praised for breaking the monotony of rowing.

Coached Programs

Follow along with personalized rowing instructor Austen as he guides you through tailored rowing and strengthening workouts.

This option provides a similar experience to traditional, instructor-led workouts, ensuring proper form and effective training.

Streaming

Access popular streaming entertainment apps directly from the 22″ HD touchscreen console.

Whether you want to binge-watch your favorite shows on Hulu, Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, or enjoy music on Spotify, Aviron lets you stay entertained while working out.

Scenic Rows

Immerse yourself in serene and picturesque waterways as you exercise from the comfort of your home.

These scenic rowing experiences allow you to relax and enjoy captivating virtual environments during your workouts.

Power Play

Combine the thrill of games and guided workouts with Power Play.

You can take part in races against friends and the computer, focusing on different aspects of your rowing technique. Power Play adds a competitive element to your training while helping you improve your stroke.

Live Competition

Embrace the exhilaration of live races with Aviron’s no-holds-barred competition mode.

Challenge friends to a real-time race or aim for the top spot on the leaderboard.

Aviron occasionally organizes community-wide live events, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared achievement.

Guided Programs

Similar to coached programs, guided workouts take you through a series of rowing and off-the-rower exercises tailored to your goals and fitness level.

These programs offer a comprehensive approach to training, catering to your specific needs and helping you progress.

Pros vs Joes

Experience the thrill of racing against elite athletes in the Pros vs Joes feature.

Challenge yourself against pre-recorded competitions featuring athletes from various sports and disciplines. Measure your performance against some of the fittest individuals, including Olympic rowers, if you dare.

What I love about Aviron’s extensive range of workout modes is that you won’t have to worry about getting bored with your routine.

Having a rowing machine is one thing, but the added entertainment options that Aviron provides increase the chance that you will actually want to use it.

The Pros and Cons of the Aviron Rowing Machines

The Aviron Rowing Machines offer a variety of benefits to users. For one, users can say goodbye to boring workouts with the gamified workouts, live workouts, video games, races, and HIIT cardio workouts.

The 22-inch HD touchscreen provides a completely immersive experience, and there are eight different ways to work out, including group workouts, guided workouts, and games that you can play with your friends.

The performance monitor tracks more workout data than you ever dreamed possible, and there are social features built right into the display, so you don’t have to go to your phone or social media site to connect with the rowing community.

The Aviron Rowing Machines also offer plenty of resistance, no matter where you are on your fitness journey. The machines use both air and magnetic resistance, with magnetic resistance being the default setting.

The machines are also designed to be comfortable, with an ergonomic seat and a longer, padded, ergonomic handlebar designed to prevent injuries to the wrist and elbows.

Additionally, there are beginner programs, coaching, and monthly challenges to help users get started and stay motivated. The frame is constructed from steel and aluminum, and Aviron offers a 10-year warranty on the frame and a 1-year warranty on everything else.

However, there are a few downsides to the Aviron Rowing Machines. For one, there is a monthly membership fee of $29. While this is comparable to a gym membership, it is still an added cost that users should be aware of.

The Aviron Rowing Machines are a premium option, which means they are more expensive to buy upfront than the Concept 2. Finally, while there is coaching available, there are no trainer-led classes, which may be a downside for some users.

Overall, the Aviron Rowing Machines are a great option for those looking for a gamified platform that makes rowing much more enjoyable.

With a variety of workout options, a connected fitness experience, and a sleek design, the Aviron Rowing Machines are sure to provide users with an enjoyable and effective workout experience.

Aviron vs Concept 2: Who Is the Winner?

When it comes to choosing between the Aviron rowing machine and the Concept 2 rowing machine, it’s important to consider what you’re looking for in a workout experience. While both machines offer a full-body workout that burns the same number of calories, the experience you get with each machine is very different.

The Aviron rowing machine offers a unique and exciting workout experience that keeps users engaged and motivated. With options like the Impact Series and the new and improved Strong Series, Aviron offers a range of features and options that make it a great choice for serious at-home athletes, as well as beginners.

One of the standout features of the Aviron rowing machine is its monitor, which is easy to use and filled with extras that users don’t expect. Additionally, the Aviron rowing machine comes with a free 30-day home trial, so users can try it out for themselves and see if it’s the right choice for their fitness goals.

While the Concept 2 rowing machine is a classic indoor rowing machine, it can’t compete with the Aviron rowing machine when it comes to features. Aviron indoor rowers connect wirelessly, making them a great choice for users who want to stay connected while they work out.

Of course, the Aviron rowing machine does come with a higher price tag than the Concept 2 rowing machine, and users will need to pay a monthly subscription fee. However, if you’re looking for a workout experience that banishes boredom and keeps you motivated day after day, then the Aviron rowing machine is the clear winner.

Whether you choose the Aviron rowing machine or the Concept 2 rowing machine, you can be sure that you’re getting a high-quality machine that will help you achieve your fitness goals.

Types of Indoor Rowing Machines

FAQs

Is Aviron Worth It?

As someone who has used the Aviron rowing machine, I can confidently say that it is definitely worth the investment. The machine is sturdy and provides a fantastic workout experience. Additionally, Aviron offers a 30-day trial period, so you can try it out for yourself before committing.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Hydrow Wave is a great alternative that doesn’t sacrifice quality.

Can You Watch Hulu or Netflix on Aviron?

Yes, you can! The Aviron tablet comes with a variety of popular entertainment apps, including Hulu, Netflix, and YouTube. This feature allows you to enjoy your favorite shows and movies while getting a great workout.

What Other Rowers Are As Good or Better Than Concept 2?

If you’re looking for a more immersive workout experience, there are several smart rowers that are just as good, if not better, than the Concept 2. The Aviron, Hydrow, Hydrow Wave, and Ergatta are all great rowing machines that offer engaging workouts and a variety of features.

In terms of rowing machines that use water resistance, the WaterRower is a popular option that provides a smooth and realistic rowing experience.

Overall, when it comes to choosing a rowing machine, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and goals. Whether you’re looking for a machine with advanced features or a more affordable option, there are plenty of great choices available.

Where can I purchase the Aviron rower?

The Aviron rower can be purchased directly from their website

What are the benefits of the Concept 2 rower?

The Concept 2 rower is a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts due to its durability, smooth performance, and versatility. Some of the benefits of using the Concept 2 rower include:

• Low-impact full-body workout
• Customizable resistance levels
• Ergonomic design for comfort and proper form
• Easy to assemble and store
• Compatible with various fitness apps and programs

Can the Aviron rower be used without a subscription?

Yes, the Aviron rower can be used without a subscription. However, a subscription provides access to additional features such as live and on-demand classes, personalized training plans, and virtual challenges. The subscription fee varies depending on the plan selected, but users can also opt for a free trial before committing to a subscription.