With its much loved aesthetic wooden frame and famous for its patented water flywheel technology, the WaterRower gives you a smooth realistic rowing stroke as well as the soothing sound of water splashing as you are rowing along. This has made the WaterRower be a popular choice among home exercise enthusiasts. As well as that smooth feeling rowing on a WaterRower there are also psychological benefits of rowing with water resistance. The sound of the water is meditative and can be a relaxing unwind after a busy day of work or an inspiring way to start your day.
The WaterRower has even starred on television with hit series ‘house of cards’ as well as filling OrangeTheory fitness classes across the US. In this guide, WaterRower Rowing Machine: The Ultimate User-Friendly WaterRower buyer’s guide, we are going to be taking a look at the different models of WaterRower and the different options they present. As unlike other rowing machines like the Concept2 RowErg, WaterRower presents a lot of different models and versions and it can be confusing deciding on which WaterRower might be the right fit for you.
WaterRower Buyer’s Guide Pros and Cons:
Pros of WaterRower rowing machines
+ WaterRowers are hand made in the USA and are built to last and have been around for decades to prove their durability
+ Water resistance offers a smooth realistic rowing experience
+ Natural soothing, meditative and relaxing sound of water whilst rowing
+ Comfortable seat and handle
+ Looks like an elegant piece of furniture rather than exercise equipment
+ Replacement parts are available for the WaterRower and can be self-replaced
+ Wheels at the front enable easy movement and can be stood upright to save space when not in use
+ Free purification tablets available from WaterRower to keep your water tank clean
+ Comes in choices of many different beautiful woods and metals
Cons of the WaterRower vs magnetic/air resistance machines
– Water tank resistance cannot be changed without removing or adding water, although the resistance does change dynamically based on your intensity with water resistance.
– A little more maintenance is required (keeping an eye on the tank, which requires chlorine tablets approx. every 6 months to eliminate algae)
– Machine does not split into 2 pieces so it is less portable, but it can be easily moved and stood upright to save space when not in use
WaterRower Models to choose from
A1
Original Series
M1 and S1
Performance Erg
CityRow
Ergatta
WaterRower A1
The A1 is the first to feature in our WaterRower buyer’s guide and is WaterRowers’ entry level rowing machine. It sports a solid ash frame with stained honey oak, finished in Danish oil and an aluminum monorail instead of the dual-rail models like you see with the WaterRower original series rowing machines. Having a monorail makes the foot placement wider than the dual rail design of the original series WaterRower which many users prefer as this makes it easier to get into an ideal catch position.
It is a great entry level WaterRower rowing machine, however, it lacks the features and abilities of the original series by having a more basic monitor. This can be upgraded however and apart from the A1 quick-start monitor being basic it is fine for those that just need basic stats and don’t plan on needing any app or training platform integration. Quite a few people prefer this rowing machine to the original series due to the wider foot placement and then like to upgrade the monitor with the S4 Performance monitor and the Bluetooth ComModule or SmartRow or even the Ergatta upgrade package.
 | WaterRower A1 | View on Amazon |
Pros:
+ Wide foot plates (12″ across)
+ Wide 17.5″ handle
+ HiRise kit available
Cons:
– Aluminum monorail is louder than dual-rail
– A1 quick-start monitor has limited functionality
– Bluetooth not compatible with standard monitor
– Lower weight limit (300lbs)
WaterRower A1 Specs
| WaterRower A1 | |
| Weight | 98 lbs |
| Portability | Stands |
| Size | 82″ L x 22″ W |
| Resistance Type | Water |
| Resistance Levels | Self-regulated* |
| Maximum User Weight | 300 lbs |
| Monitor | LCD Quick-Start Monitor |
| Power Requirement | 2 x AA Batteries |
| Warranty | 2yr frame, 3yr parts |
Accessories and upgrades
The following accessories and upgrades are available for the WaterRower A1:
– S4 Performance Monitor Upgrade (some A1’s come with the S4 monitor by default)
– Bluetooth ComModule (S4 Performance Monitor required)
– SmartRow
– Ergatta upgrade*
– HiRise adapter kit
– Tablet / phone arm and holder
– Digital Heart rate monitoring kit (S4 Performance Monitor)
– Ergpad seat cushion
– Rowing grips
– Mat
– Cover
*If you are planning on using this machine with the Ergatta upgrade package you will need to upgrade to the S4 Performance monitor if your A1 has the A1 quick start monitor.
WaterRower Original Series
The original series rowing machines are WaterRower’s most popular rowing machines and come in many different types of woods such as:
WaterRower Natural – solid ash wood, stained honey oak
WaterRower Walnut – solid American black walnut
WaterRower Cherry – solid cherry wood
WaterRower Oak – solid oak wood, stained honey oak
WaterRower Club – solid ash wood, stained in rosewood and black
WaterRower Xeno Müller signature series – solid ash
All machines are finished in Danish oil.
 | WaterRower Natural Ash | View on Amazon |
Pros:
+ Dual rail provides quiet operation
+ HiRise kit available
+ S4 Monitor supports Bluetooth upgrade
+ Supports slides and FlowRow boards
Cons:
– Narrow foot plates (9″ across)
– Standard handle is narrow
WaterRower Original Series Specs
| WaterRower Original | |
| Weight | 103.5 lbs |
| Portability | Stands |
| Size | 82″ L x 22″ W |
| Resistance Type | Water |
| Resistance Levels | Self-regulated* |
| Maximum User Weight | 700 lbs |
| Monitor | S4 Performance Monitor |
| Power Requirement | 4 x AA Batteries |
| Warranty | 3yr frame, 5yr parts |
The foot pedals are closer together on the original series WaterRowers which can be less comfortable for some users and the seat to foot placement ratio may not be as good as other machines like the Concept2 RowErg or the WaterRower A1. This can make it harder for some users to get into the most ideal catch position. Some WaterRower models (like the signature Xeno Müller edition) have lower foot placements and include a wider handle. Seat pads or using a towel on the seat can change the seat height to foot placement ratio and be useful.
The HiRise adapter kit is available as an accessory which raises the height of the WaterRower, which is great for those that may have hip mobility issues.
The original series and A1 WaterRower do not come standard with a display for viewing content, however you can purchase a tablet/phone arm as an accessory to mount your phone or tablet in front of you.
The original series WaterRowers are some of the quietest rowing machines you can use. Having a dual rail rowing machine makes rowing significantly quieter, as monorails can be noisy. This is particularly useful if you may be rowing whilst someone is sleeping in a room next door to where you have your rowing machine! This makes them a personal favourite in our WaterRower buyer’s guide and popular for home gym users that also have their rowing machine in apartments.
Accessories and upgrades
The following accessories and upgrades are available for the WaterRower original series:
– Bluetooth ComModule
– SmartRow
– Ergatta upgrade
– Tablet / phone arm and holder
– Laptop stand
– HiRise adapter kit
– 17″ Handle
– XL rail upgrade kit
– Commericial footboard upgrade
– Digital heart rate monitoring kit
– Ergpad seat cushion
– Rowing grips
– Mat
– Cover
– Aftermarket slides can turn your WaterRower into a dynamic rowing machine, this coupled with the sound of the water resistance gives the closest feeling to actually being on the water in a boat and is a great training tool
– FlowRow boards add lateral tilting to your machine which helps build core stability and adds the realistic feeling of balancing in a skull
The S4 Performance Monitor
The S4 is a very simple and basic monitor that looks similar to an old alarm clock.
It does a great job of displaying important data such as:
– Meters / Miles rowed
– 500m or 2k split time
– Strokes per minute
It also offers some programs such as:
- distance workout
- duration workout
- distance or duration interval workout
- set heart rate and intensity zones
- view stroke ratio
- projected distance or time
The S4 performance monitor does not have Bluetooth as a standard feature, but you can purchase a Bluetooth ComModule which attaches to the S4 performance monitor as an additional accessory. With this you can connect to heart rate monitors and WaterRower’s apps as well as third party apps like EXR or KinoMap etc. Using apps is a great way to keep track of your workouts and race against others.
An alternative to the S4 Performance Monitor and purchasing a Bluetooth ComModule is purchasing a SmartRow Bluetooth power meter and using the SmartRow app paired with your phone or tablet as the display. This basically replaces the functionality of the S4 performance monitor and gives what is considered even more accurate data with SmartRow being a power meter and measuring output from the pulley rather than a sensor.
WaterRower provides a few apps that you can use and are also supported by various third party apps.
WaterRower apps
S4 with USB: We-Row and CoxSwain
S4 With Bluetooth ComModule: WaterRower Connect, WaterRower Challenge, WaterRower TV
3rd Party Apps for the S4 and Bluetooth ComModule: EXR, KinoMap, CityRow Go, Asensei
SmartRow Apps: SmartRow App, EXR
Good and bad points about the S4 performance monitor:
Pros:
+ Doesn’t require a power outlet
+ Basic & simple to use
+ S4 Monitor supports Bluetooth upgrade
Cons:
– No monitor backlight
– Monitor is mounted below eye level
WaterRower Performance Ergometer
The WaterRower Performance Ergometer is the WaterRower oak original series rowing machine stained in honey oak and finished in Danish oil with the following upgrades:
- SmartRow power meter instead of the S4 performance monitor
- XL rails and larger 17″ handle
- Tablet / phone arm and holder
Having SmartRow, the WaterRower Performance Ergometer is able to use the SmartRow app out of the box and have access to detailed metrics and options including force curve as well as historical tracking and the ability to race other SmartRow users. The SmartRow power meter is considered the most accurate way to monitor the output of a water rower and is potentially the future for performance analysis and tracking.
You could also purchase an original series WaterRower and purchase these upgrades separately.
WaterRower Performance Ergometer Specs
| WaterRower Performance Ergometer | |
| Weight | 106 lbs |
| Portability | Stands |
| Size | 86″ L x 22″ W |
| Resistance Type | Water |
| Resistance Levels | Self-regulated* |
| Maximum User Weight | 700 lbs |
| Monitor | None: Phone/tablet needed for SmartRow |
| Power Requirement | 3 X AA Batteries |
| Warranty | 3yr frame, 5yr parts |
WaterRower M1 and S1
The M1 and S1 are the metallic versions of the original series dual-rail WaterRower. The M1 comes in a powder coated aluminum frame and the S1 features a brushed stainless steel frame. Great for commercial applications or for a modern contemporary look for your home gym.
 | WaterRower M1 | View on Amazon |
WaterRower M1 and S1 Specs
| WaterRower M1 | WaterRower S1 | |
| Weight | 148 lbs | 125 lbs |
| Portability | Stands | Stands |
| Size | 82″ L x 22″ W | 82″ L x 22″ W |
| Resistance Type | Water | Water |
| Resistance Levels | Self-regulated* | Self-regulated* |
| Maximum User Weight | 700 lbs | 700 lbs |
| Monitor | S4 Performance Monitor | S4 Performance Monitor |
| Power Requirement | 4 X AA Batteries | 4 X AA Batteries |
| Warranty | 3yr frame, 5yr parts | 3yr frame, 5yr parts |
CityRow
CityRow offers studio styled cardio, strength, mobility and endurance training using the CityRow Max tablet or their app. CityRow has two different builds of WaterRower to choose from – the ‘CityRow Max’ and the ‘CityRow Classic’. You are also able to use your own WaterRower with a S4 Performance Monitor with the Bluetooth ComModule as well as your own phone or tablet to view classes. They also offer a free 14-day trial to try it out.
 | CityRow Max | View on Amazon |
The CityRow max’s 19.5″ touchscreen with high fidelity speakers offers a rich immersive studio class workout experience.
 | CityRow Classic | View on Amazon |
The CityRow classic’s main difference is that instead of providing a screen you use your own smartphone or tablet as a screen and it doesn’t require a power outlet. It has a built in quick start monitor with rechargeable batteries.
CityRow Max VS CityRow Classic Specs
| CityRow Max | CityRow Classic | |
| Weight | 103 lbs | 103.5 lbs |
| Portability | Stands | Stands |
| Size | 86″ L x 23″ W | 82″ L x 22″ W |
| Resistance Type | Water | Water |
| Resistance Levels | Self-regulated* | Self-regulated* |
| Maximum User Weight | 500 lbs | 700 lbs |
| Monitor | 19.5″ sweat resistant Touchscreen | LED backlit performance monitor with Bluetooth connectivity |
| Power Requirement | Power Outlet | Long Lasting Rechargeable Batteries |
| Subscription Cost | $29.99/Month** | $29.99/Month** |
| Warranty | 5yr frame, 3yr parts | 5yr frame, 3yr parts |
**Price current December 2023
Ergatta
Ergatta is a custom model of WaterRower and is the last to feature in this WaterRower buyer’s guide. It is built specifically for Ergatta and features a beautiful American cherry wood frame. It includes custom cut-outs which make it easier to move and sleek angles to give it a nice minimal and compact look. It is also branded with the Ergatta logo. As well as that it includes a power-meter to measure performance and a 17.5″ tablet.
Ergatta has great engaging games that include analytics, metrics and stats to keep you motivated and progressing and are modified as you go along in your workouts. This is great for people that like data. This is also why many people traditionally enjoy using a Concept2 with the PM5 vs other rowing machines as having great data and tracking keeps you motivated and progressing as well as being able to compare times against yourself and others. With Ergatta you are getting a great fun, immersive and engaging training experience and workouts are highly efficient and effective.
As far as the workout programs that Ergatta offers, Ergatta doesn’t offer instructor led classes like CityRow but includes unique beautifully designed and constructed games and programs to follow which are tailored based on your intensity zone metrics which have been calibrated from your first calibration row when you set up your Ergatta. Workouts constantly evolve based on your progress and performance. This is a unique and powerful form of training and their workouts are fun and engaging.
Ergatta as a connected experience machine is really great for someone that likes to see their metrics and data that is looking to improve their times and progress. Ergatta constantly trains and challenges you. Workouts push you to hit your achievable intervals. It keeps you accountable and progressing. Ergatta provides a great platform for someone competitive that loves to challenge themselves and others.
Ergatta also have ‘open row’ mode where you can program a row for a specific distance or time or free row which includes scenic video footage from locations globally. This makes it also suitable to use as a tool for other types of mixed exercise interval training. Ergatta is great for someone that wants to get fit and progress in their rowing in an efficient and effective way.
There is also the option to purchase Ergatta as an upgrade for your existing WaterRower.
Ergatta Specs
| Ergatta | |
| Weight | 103 lbs |
| Portability | Stands |
| Size | 86″ L x 23″ W |
| Resistance Type | Water |
| Resistance Levels | Self-regulated* |
| Maximum User Weight | 500 lbs |
| Monitor | 17.3″ HD Touchscreen |
| Power Requirement | Power Outlet |
| Subscription Cost | $29/Month** |
| Warranty | 3yr frame, 5yr parts |
**Price current December 2023 | Ergatta offers discounts for prepaid memberships check Ergatta.com for details
Features of Ergatta:
- Race workouts: Choose users to race against or race against yourself or let Ergatta select it automatically based on your intensity zone metrics. Race workouts can be chosen based on duration or distance
- Push Programs: Goal based training programs, completing sections of the program unlocks subsequent sections holding you accountable and keeping you progressing toward your goals
- Interval workouts: Use hundreds of different workouts with different lengths, intensity, focus and lengths which help you reach your targets
- Programs are curated based on your calibrated intensity zones
- Open Row: Pick your own workout variety such as a distance or time
- Scenic Row: Row along to stunning scenery shot in different global locations
Conclusion
If you have jumped on and used a WaterRower before then you will know the great feeling of rowing on a WaterRower. All WaterRower rowing machines are made with the same exceptional quality and all provide a great rowing experience. I hoped this WaterRower buyer’s guide helped you understand the differences between all the different models of WaterRower and that it helps you to make the decision on which one is best for you.
FAQ’s
Do WaterRowers require much maintenance?
There is an online guide for maintenance for the WaterRower, the water tank requires routine purification tablets to avoid algae and it is recommended to remove any dust build-up of the rowing machine with a damp cloth. It is also a good idea to routinely check that all the screws are tight.
What’s the difference between the WaterRower and other water resistance rowing machines on Amazon?
WaterRower is a trusted brand that has been selling high quality water resistance rowing machines since the 1980’s. They have a rich history of providing great products. If looking at cheaper alternatives, make sure you are getting a machine from a reputable company that it is a quality product as they are not all made the same. There are plenty of cheap water resistance based rowing machines on Amazon but many do not provide the same quality or durability. WaterRower also provide all replacement parts and parts are self-replaceable.
Which WaterRower is considered the Concept2 RowErg equivalent?
Typically the original series rowing machine is the one that is most commonly compared to the Concept2 RowErg rowing machine, however you would need to add the Bluetooth ComModule or SmartRow and a tablet arm for it to be comparable. Otherwise it would be the WaterRower Oak Performance Ergometer rowing machine which comes standard with SmartRow and the tablet arm as well as a larger 17″ handle.
What rowing machine is a good alternative to the WaterRower?
The Concept2 RowErg is another rowing machine that offers a very realistic and smooth rowing experience and is considered the gold standard for indoor rowing.
Still confused with all the options WaterRower presents?
In this WaterRower Buyer’s guide we went into detail of the different models of WaterRower that exist and the differences between them. In our article “The 3 main options when choosing your WaterRower” we summarise the different models into 3 main categories so make sure you read this article to understand the 3 different types of Water rowing machines that are available.