With its much loved aesthetic wooden frame and famous for its patented water flywheel technology, the WaterRower rowing machine delivers a smooth realistic experience coupled with the soothing sound of water as you take each stroke. This has made the WaterRower be a popular choice among home gym enthusiasts. In addition to that smooth feeling rowing on a WaterRower there are also psychological benefits of rowing with water resistance. The sound of the water can be an inspiring start to your day or a relaxing meditative unwind after a busy day.
WaterRower starred on popular television series ‘house of cards’ and is the rowing machine of choice in OrangeTheory fitness classes across the US. In this WaterRower buyer’s guide, we take a look at the different models of WaterRower and the different options they present. As unlike other rowing machines like the Concept2 RowErg, WaterRower have a lot of different models and options and it can be confusing when deciding on which one is the right fit for you.
The two different types of WaterRower
WaterRower has two main types of rowing machines to choose from: The WaterRower Hybrid which has a monorail (similar to the Concept2) and the rest are dual-rail frame designs.
Monorail: WaterRower Hybrid (A1)
Benefits of the monorail model of WaterRower include wider foot placement that can be more comfortable for some users (especially larger or taller users) to get into the ideal catch position.
Dual-rail: WaterRower Lite, Original, Performance & Metallic models
Benefits of the dual-rail model of WaterRower include providing a smoother and quieter rowing experience.
Pros and Cons of WaterRower rowing machines:
+ Handcrafted in the USA and built to last with decades of history to prove their durability
+ Water resistance offers a smooth realistic rowing experience
+ Natural, soothing sound of water whilst rowing
+ Comfortable seat and handle
+ No power cables required (excluding CityRow / Ergatta versions)
+ Fits into your home like an elegant piece of furniture rather than a piece of exercise equipment
+ Replacement parts available and can be self-replaced
+ Front wheels enable easy movement
+ Stands upright to save space when not in use
+ Free purification tablets available from WaterRower to keep your water tank clean
+ Choice of many different woods and metals making it a beautiful addition to your home or exercise space
Cons of WaterRower vs magnetic or air resistance machines
– Resistance cannot be quickly changed without removing or adding water to the tank, although resistance does change dynamically based on your intensity with water resistance
– A little more maintenance is required (checking tank water quality), which requires purification tablets approx. every 6 months to eliminate algae)
– Unlike some other rowing machines, it does not split into 2 pieces making it is less portable
WaterRower Models to choose from
Monorail
Dual-rail
Lite
Original
Metallic
Performance
Ergatta
WaterRower Upgrade Kits
WaterRower Lite
WaterRower Lite is a thinner, lighter version of the WaterRower Original Series made of sustainable solid oak wood with a 325lb weight limit and accommodates users up to 6”8 tall. The WaterRower Lite monitor does not include Bluetooth and this is an upgrade that can be purchased additionally.
Upgrades for the WaterRower Lite include the tablet/phone arm and the Bluetooth ComModule which gives you the ability to use apps. Due to having a different pulley system than the other WaterRower machines you are unable to upgrade to the SmartRow power meter so if that is important to you then that would be a consideration to choose a different model.
Pros:
+ Lightweight design for home use
+ Budget friendly option
+ Great for those not initially interested in using apps or needing advanced metrics
Cons:
– Lower weight limit than original series (325lbs)
– No current upgrade option for SmartRow
 | WaterRower Lite | View on Amazon |
WaterRower Lite Specs
| WaterRower Lite | |
| Weight | 40 lbs (without water) |
| Portability | Stands to save space |
| Size | 82″ L x 22.25″ W |
| Resistance Type | Water |
| Resistance Levels | Self-regulated* |
| Maximum User Weight | 325 lbs |
| Monitor | S4 Performance Monitor |
| Power Requirement | 4 x AA Batteries |
| Warranty | 3yr frame, 1yr parts |
WaterRower Hybrid (A1)
The main difference between the WaterRower Hybrid (previously known as the WaterRower A1) and the rest of WaterRower’s rowing machines is that the WaterRower Hybrid has a aluminum monorail instead of the dual-rail design like you see with the rest of WaterRower’s rowing machines. Having a monorail makes the foot placement wider than the dual-rail design of the Original Series, which which can be more comfortable for some users (especially larger or taller users) to get into the ideal catch position.
The WaterRower Hybrid is a great rowing machine and in recent times they have upgraded the monitor to a backlit CR Bluetooth Monitor. So now it can connect out of the box with apps like WaterRower Connect, CityRow and Peloton, and sync with Strava and apple health. It also comes in a range of different wood options such as Oak, Walnut, Cherry.
 | WaterRower Hybrid | View on Amazon |
Pros:
+ Wide foot plates (12″ across)
+ Wide 17.5″ handle
Cons:
– Aluminum monorail is louder than dual-rail
– Lower weight limit than Original Series (375lbs)
WaterRower Hybrid Specs
| WaterRower Hybrid | |
| Weight | 69.5 lbs (without water) |
| Portability | Stands to save space |
| Size | 85″ L x 22.25″ W |
| Resistance Type | Water |
| Resistance Levels | Self-regulated* |
| Maximum User Weight | 375 lbs |
| Monitor | CR Bluetooth Monitor |
| Power Requirement | 2 x AA Batteries |
| Warranty | 5yr frame, 3yr parts |
Accessories and upgrades
The following accessories and upgrades are available for the WaterRower Hybrid A1:
– SmartRow Power meter
– Ergatta upgrade*
– Tablet / phone arm and holder
– Digital Heart rate monitoring kit*
– Ergo pad seat cushion
– Rowing grips
– Mat
– Cover
– LightRing
*for A1 models that included a S4 Performance Monitor or if you already have a SmartRow Power meter
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 Oak – solid oak wood, stained honey oak finished with Danish oil
WaterRower Walnut – solid American black walnut, finished with Danish oil
WaterRower Cherry – solid cherry wood, finished with Danish oil
WaterRower Vintage – solid Northern Red Oak wood finished with a hand-rubbed dark vintage stain
WaterRower Club – solid ash wood, stained in rosewood and black, finished with Danish oil
WaterRower Shadow – solid oak wood with black stain
WaterRower Maple – solid American maple, finished with Danish oil
WaterRower Xeno Müller signature series – Appalachian oak, finished with Danish oil
 | WaterRower Original | View on Amazon |
Pros:
+ Dual-rail provides smooth quiet operation
+ HiRise kit available
+ S4 Bluetooth Monitor
+ Supports slides and FlowRow boards
Cons:
– Narrower foot plates (9″ across)
– Standard handle is narrow (15″)
WaterRower Original Series Specs
| WaterRower Original | |
| Weight | 67 lbs (without water) |
| Portability | Stands to save space |
| Size | 82.25″ L x 22.25″ W |
| Resistance Type | Water |
| Resistance Levels | Self-regulated* |
| Maximum User Weight | 700 lbs |
| Monitor | S4 BLE Performance Monitor |
| Power Requirement | 4 x AA Batteries |
| Warranty | 5yr frame, 3yr parts |
The foot pedals are closer together on the original series WaterRowers which can be less comfortable and harder to get into the most ideal catch position for taller or larger users and the seat to foot placement ratio may not be as good as other machines like the Concept2 RowErg or the WaterRower Hybrid A1. Some WaterRower models (like the signature Xeno Müller edition) have lower foot placements and include a wider 17″ handle. Seat pads or using a towel on the seat can be useful and change the seat height to foot placement ratio.
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 and find it difficult to lower themselves onto a low rowing machine.
Original Series and A1 WaterRowers don’t come with a HD display for viewing content, you can however purchase a tablet/phone arm to mount your phone or tablet in front of you. Alternatively there is the CityRow or Ergatta tablet upgrade.
The Original Series WaterRowers are some of the quietest rowing machines available. 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 favorite in our WaterRower buyer’s guide and popular for home gym users that are also using their rowing machine in apartments.
Accessories and upgrades
The following accessories and upgrades are available for the WaterRower Original Series:
– Bluetooth ComModule (Previous models that didn’t include the S4 BLE monitor standard)
– SmartRow power meter
– Ergatta upgrade
– City Row upgrade
– Tablet / phone arm and holder
– Laptop stand
– HiRise adapter kit
– 17″ Handle
– XL rail upgrade kit
– Commercial foot-board upgrade
– Digital heart rate monitoring kit
– Ergo pad seat cushion
– Rowing grips
– LightRing
– 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 doesn’t require external power and does a great job of displaying important data such as:
– Meters / Miles rowed
– 500m or 2k split time
– Strokes per minute
programs offered:
- distance workout
- duration workout
- distance or duration interval workout
- set heart rate and intensity zones
- view stroke ratio
- projected distance or time
The S4 BLE performance monitor now comes with Bluetooth as a standard feature. You can also purchase the Bluetooth ComModule which attaches to the older S4 performance monitor as an additional accessory. With Bluetooth 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 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 apps
Check out our article on the best WaterRower apps which include WaterRower Connect, WaterRower Challenge, KinoMap, EXR, CityRow, Asensei, SmartRow and Ergatta.
WaterRower Performance Ergometer
The WaterRower Performance Ergometer is the WaterRower Original Series rowing machine with the following upgrades included:
- SmartRow power meter instead of the S4 performance monitor
- Upgraded commercial foot-boards
- 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.
WaterRower Performance Ergometer Specs
| WaterRower Performance Ergometer | |
| Weight | 66.5 lbs (without water) |
| Portability | Stands to save space |
| Size | 86″ L x 22.25″ 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 | 5yr frame, 3yr parts |
WaterRower Metallic (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 in either silver or black and the S1 features a brushed stainless steel frame. Great for commercial applications or for a modern contemporary look for your home gym. They are also offered in hi-rise or lo-rise variations.
 | WaterRower M1 | View on Amazon |
WaterRower M1 and S1 Specs
| WaterRower M1 | WaterRower S1 | |
| Weight | 74 lbs (without water) | 66.5 lbs (without water) |
| Portability | Stands to save space | Stands to save space |
| Size | 87.5″ L x 22.25″ W | 82.25″ L x 22.25″ W |
| Resistance Type | Water | Water |
| Resistance Levels | Self-regulated | Self-regulated |
| Maximum User Weight | 700 lbs | 700 lbs |
| Monitor | S4 BLE Performance Monitor | S4 BLE Performance Monitor |
| Power Requirement | 4 X AA Batteries | 4 X AA Batteries |
| Warranty | 5yr frame, 3yr parts | 5yr frame, 3yr parts |
The WaterRower M1 also comes in a model called WaterRower Metallic Pro which includes a interactive touch screen aimed for commercial gyms.
CityRow
CityRow offers instructor led studio styled cardio, strength, mobility and endurance training using the CityRow app (free 14-day trial) or you can purchase the WaterRower CityRow Connect Upgrade Kit for the WaterRower Original or Hybrid which includes a tablet arm and the CityRow 19.5″ touch screen.
Ergatta
Ergatta has two custom models of WaterRower and are built specifically for Ergatta. The Ergatta Luxe 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.
Ergatta offers 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.
Ergatta has also teamed up with CityRow and now also includes the CityRow instructor led classes making it a complete and comprehensive platform.
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 | $39/Month** |
| Warranty | 5yr frame, 3yr parts, 1yr screen |
**Price current March 2026 | 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
Ergatta Upgrade Kit
There is also the option to purchase the Ergatta upgrade kit as an upgrade for your existing WaterRower Original.
Conclusion
If you have jumped on and used a WaterRower before then you will know that special and authentic feeling of rowing on a WaterRower. All WaterRower rowing machines are made with the same exceptional quality and all provide a great rowing experience. So whichever you choose you are buying an excellent rowing machine from a trusted brand. 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 your decision on which one is best for you.
WaterRower Buyer’s Guide FAQs
Do WaterRowers require much maintenance?
WaterRower maintenance is typical compared with other rowing machines however 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 an indoor rowing erg.
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 summarize the different models into 3 main categories so make sure you read this article to understand the 3 different types of WaterRower machines that are available.