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- Best overall: Concept2 BikeErg
- Best budget: Concept2 RowErg with PM5
- Best premium: Hydrow Pro Rower
- Best for guided rowing: Hydrow Wave Rower
- The Concept2 BikeErg suits shoppers who want a durable, app-friendly stationary bike with no required workout subscription.
- The Hydrow Wave Rower is the stronger pick for guided rowing classes and a compact, stowable design.
- Seven bike and rower options cover simple performance tracking, immersive workouts and connected training.
- Compare workout style, display, storage and ongoing membership needs before choosing a Black Friday 2026 deal.
The Concept2 BikeErg and Hydrow Wave Rower serve different training goals: one is an air-resistance exercise bike, and the other is a connected rowing machine. For Black Friday 2026, the better choice depends less on which machine is “best” overall and more on whether you want cycling or full-body rowing, independent workouts or instructor-led classes, and minimal tech or a large screen.
I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to build this category guide around practical differences shoppers can act on. You’ll also find five alternatives, quick comparisons and advice on choosing a machine that fits your space and routine. The Best bet for value-minded performance is the Concept2 BikeErg; the Hydrow Wave Rower is an Easy recommendation for shoppers who prioritize guided rowing.
How We Picked
- Compared the primary workout each machine supports, including cycling, air rowing and water rowing.
- Reviewed published specifications for display size, resistance type, footprint and storage features.
- Considered app access, built-in workouts and whether a paid membership is central to the experience.
- Used owner feedback and product information to identify practical strengths and trade-offs.
- Prioritized models that represent meaningfully different needs, rather than listing near-identical machines.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Resistance | Display or monitor | Workout platform |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concept2 BikeErg | Independent cycling | Air | PM5 monitor | Open app connections |
| Hydrow Wave Rower | Compact guided rowing | Electromagnetic | 16-inch HD touchscreen | Hydrow classes |
| Concept2 RowErg with PM5 | Data-focused rowing | Air | PM5 monitor | Open app connections |
| Hydrow Pro Rower | Premium guided rowing | Electromagnetic | 22-inch HD touchscreen | Hydrow classes |
| Peloton Row | Peloton class members | Electronic | 23.8-inch touchscreen | Peloton classes |
| NordicTrack RW900 Rower | Interactive workouts | Magnetic | 24-inch touchscreen | iFIT training |
| Ergatta Rower | Game-based motivation | Water | 17.3-inch touchscreen | Ergatta programs |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1 · Top pick
Concept2 BikeErg
The Concept2 BikeErg is the best performance-first exercise bike for riders who want straightforward training; its PM5 Performance Monitor supports Bluetooth and ANT+ connections.
Best for: Cyclists who value simple tracking, adjustable air resistance and app compatibility.
- Resistance
- Air resistance with adjustable damper
- Monitor
- PM5 Performance Monitor
- Footprint
- About 4.9 ft long by 2 ft wide
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth and ANT+
- No required workout subscription
- Adjustable resistance supports varied cycling sessions
- PM5 connects with compatible apps and heart-rate devices
- No large integrated touchscreen or instructor-led class library
Is the Concept2 BikeErg worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Concept2 BikeErg is worth considering for riders who want reliable air resistance, useful performance data and freedom to choose their own training app. The Concept2 BikeErg's PM5 monitor and Bluetooth and ANT+ support make it a practical, low-fuss option.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#2
Hydrow Wave Rower
The Hydrow Wave Rower is the best connected rower for shoppers who want instructor-led workouts; its 16-inch HD touchscreen brings guided classes to the machine.
Best for: Rowers who want immersive instruction and a space-conscious frame.
- Resistance
- Computer-controlled electromagnetic drag
- Display
- 16-inch HD touchscreen
- Footprint
- About 80 in long by 19 in wide
- Storage
- Upright storage with compatible anchor
- Guided classes offer structure for new and experienced rowers
- Smaller screen and frame than Hydrow’s flagship rower
- Designed to store upright when not in use
- A connected class experience is central to its appeal
Is the Hydrow Wave Rower worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Hydrow Wave Rower is a strong choice for shoppers who want guided rowing sessions on a 16-inch screen and a machine that stores upright. Choose it over the BikeErg when full-body rowing and instructor-led classes matter more than cycling.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#3
Concept2 RowErg with PM5
The Concept2 RowErg with PM5 is the best no-frills rowing machine for data-focused athletes; its PM5 monitor tracks workout metrics and supports Bluetooth and ANT+.
Best for: Rowers who want durable-feeling air resistance and independent training.
- Resistance
- Air resistance with adjustable damper
- Monitor
- PM5 Performance Monitor
- Storage
- Separates into 2 pieces for storage
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth and ANT+
- Clear performance data without a built-in subscription requirement
- Separates into two sections for easier storage
- Popular with athletes and rowing clubs
- Air-flywheel sound is more noticeable than quiet magnetic systems
Is the Concept2 RowErg with PM5 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Concept2 RowErg with PM5 is worth considering for shoppers who want a proven air-resistance workout and detailed metrics without relying on a class membership. The Concept2 RowErg with PM5's monitor tracks core performance and connects with compatible training apps.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#4
Hydrow Pro Rower
The Hydrow Pro Rower is the best premium connected rower for shoppers who want a larger class display; its 22-inch HD touchscreen anchors the guided workout experience.
Best for: Home gyms where a large screen and coached rowing are priorities.
- Resistance
- Computer-controlled electromagnetic drag
- Display
- 22-inch HD touchscreen
- Footprint
- About 86 in long by 25 in wide
- Storage
- Upright storage with compatible anchor
- Large display makes instructor-led workouts easy to follow
- Guided sessions suit shoppers who prefer coaching
- Upright storage helps reclaim floor space
- Requires more floor space than the Wave during workouts
Is the Hydrow Pro Rower worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Hydrow Pro Rower is worth considering if a large 22-inch screen and coached rowing are central to your home-gym plan. Shoppers who want a more compact connected model can compare the Hydrow Wave Rower before deciding.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#5
Peloton Row
The Peloton Row is the best connected rower for shoppers already invested in Peloton classes; its 23.8-inch touchscreen displays instructor-led workouts.
Best for: Peloton members who want rowing to complement other classes.
- Resistance
- Electronic resistance
- Display
- 23.8-inch touchscreen
- Workout access
- Peloton class platform
- Feedback
- Form and performance guidance
- Large screen supports class-focused training
- Fits naturally into a broader Peloton workout routine
- Offers rowing instruction and performance feedback
- The experience is most compelling for Peloton platform users
Is the Peloton Row worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Peloton Row is worth considering for existing Peloton members who want instructor-led rowing on a 23.8-inch screen. Shoppers who prefer open app choice or independent workouts should compare the Concept2 RowErg with PM5.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#6
NordicTrack RW900 Rower
The NordicTrack RW900 Rower is the best rower for shoppers who want interactive training options; its 24-inch touchscreen gives workouts a prominent display.
Best for: Home exercisers who want guided sessions and connected features.
- Resistance
- Magnetic resistance
- Display
- 24-inch touchscreen
- Workout access
- iFIT-connected training
- Training style
- Instructor-led and structured workouts
- Large display suits video-led workouts
- Connected training offers a structured alternative to rowing alone
- Magnetic resistance avoids an air-flywheel sound profile
- Connected features are central to the intended experience
Is the NordicTrack RW900 Rower worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The NordicTrack RW900 Rower is worth considering for shoppers who want a large 24-inch display and connected, instructor-led training. Compare membership requirements and workout libraries with Hydrow and Peloton before choosing a platform.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
#7
Ergatta Rower
The Ergatta Rower is the best game-based rower for shoppers who prefer challenges to instructor-led classes; its 17.3-inch touchscreen puts interactive workouts front and center.
Best for: Motivation through games, races and performance goals.
- Resistance
- Water resistance
- Display
- 17.3-inch touchscreen
- Frame
- Wood construction
- Workout style
- Game-based and performance-focused programs
- Interactive challenges offer an alternative to follow-along classes
- Water resistance creates a distinct rowing feel
- Wood frame has a furniture-like appearance
- A connected screen and training platform shape the experience
Is the Ergatta Rower worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Ergatta Rower is worth considering if games, races and personal goals are more motivating than instructor-led classes. The Ergatta Rower's 17.3-inch display and water resistance create a different experience from the Concept2 RowErg and Hydrow Wave Rower.
See today’s Black Friday price on Amazon
Concept2 BikeErg vs Hydrow Wave Rower: which should you buy?
The Concept2 BikeErg is the better fit for cycling, while the Hydrow Wave Rower is the better fit for coached full-body rowing. Those machines answer different needs, so start with the movement you’ll look forward to doing several times a week.
Choose the BikeErg if you want adjustable air resistance, performance tracking on the PM5 and freedom to use compatible apps without building your routine around a screen-based class library. Choose the Wave if an integrated 16-inch display and instructor-led sessions help you stay consistent. The Wave stores upright when paired with its compatible anchor, while the BikeErg has a smaller training footprint. Check both product dimensions against your room, including clearance for mounting, movement and storage.
Which machine gives you the better workout?
The Concept2 BikeErg and Hydrow Wave Rower train different movement patterns, with cycling focused on the lower body and rowing engaging legs, core and upper body. Neither exercise automatically wins for every shopper; goals, comfort and consistency matter more.
The BikeErg works well for interval rides, steady cardio and cycling-specific workouts. The Wave brings stroke-based training and coached sessions into the home, making it a natural match for people who want rowing instruction. Shoppers comparing overall exercise value should also consider session length, noise, setup and how often they’ll use the machine. A rower is not a substitute for a bike workout, and a bike does not recreate the full-body movement of rowing.
Do Concept2 or Hydrow machines need a subscription?
The Concept2 BikeErg and Concept2 RowErg with PM5 support independent workouts, while Hydrow’s appeal centers on its connected class experience. The distinction matters for both monthly costs and workout flexibility.
Concept2 machines provide performance data on the PM5 and connect to compatible apps and devices, so owners can choose how they train. Hydrow machines are built around guided workouts and an on-screen experience; review current membership terms and included features before checkout. Peloton, NordicTrack and Ergatta also have platform-specific connected features, so check what remains available without a paid plan. Black Friday 2026 shopping is a good time to compare the full ownership experience, not only the machine’s headline specifications.
Which rower is best for a small home gym?
The Hydrow Wave Rower is a practical connected-rower pick for tighter spaces because its frame supports upright storage with a compatible anchor. The Concept2 RowErg with PM5 separates into two pieces, making it easier to put away between workouts.
Storage convenience does not eliminate the space needed to exercise. Measure the machine’s full length, room for your body through each stroke, and a safe path around the equipment. Check ceiling height and wall clearance before choosing upright storage. The BikeErg is a more compact alternative for shoppers who prefer cycling, but it still needs room for mounting and pedaling. Keep the user’s height, seat position and access to power outlets in mind when planning a screen-equipped setup.
What should you compare before Black Friday 2026?
Black Friday 2026 shoppers should compare workout fit, display, storage, connectivity and ongoing membership needs before selecting a bike or rower. A large screen is valuable only if the included training style matches your habits.
Review the exact model name and included components, including monitors, anchors, device holders and any delivery or assembly terms. Confirm the return window and warranty in the retailer’s listing, then check dimensions against your available space. If workout apps matter, verify compatibility with your phone, tablet or wearable. For the Concept2 BikeErg versus Hydrow Wave Rower decision, the clearest separator remains simple: choose cycling with open-ended tracking, or choose guided rowing with an integrated touchscreen.
Buying Guide
Choose cycling or rowing first
The Concept2 BikeErg supports cycling, while the Hydrow Wave Rower and other rowers support stroke-based cardio. Pick the movement that matches your goals and feels sustainable for regular workouts.
Match the display to your routine
The PM5 monitor gives Concept2 users performance data without a large built-in class screen. Hydrow Wave, Hydrow Pro, Peloton Row, NordicTrack RW900 and Ergatta Rower offer touchscreen-led experiences.
Check noise and resistance style
Air resistance on Concept2 models has a different sound and feel from magnetic, electromagnetic or water resistance. Consider neighbors, household schedules and whether you prefer a smooth, quiet training environment.
Measure workout and storage space
Allow room for the full stroke or pedaling motion, not just the equipment footprint. Compare upright storage, split-frame design and any required wall anchor with your room layout.
Review platform terms before checkout
Connected workout access varies by brand and plan. Confirm membership terms, offline functions, device compatibility, warranty and included accessories on the exact Black Friday 2026 product listing.
FAQ
Is the Concept2 BikeErg better than the Hydrow Wave Rower?
The Concept2 BikeErg is better for cycling, air resistance and independent performance tracking. The Hydrow Wave Rower is better for guided rowing classes on an integrated touchscreen. Choose based on the workout you want, not a direct spec-for-spec comparison between different machine types.
Does the Hydrow Wave Rower fold for storage?
The Hydrow Wave Rower is designed for upright storage with a compatible anchor rather than folding flat. Measure its full workout footprint and the space required against your wall before buying. The Concept2 RowErg with PM5 separates into two pieces for storage.
Does the Concept2 BikeErg require a subscription?
The Concept2 BikeErg does not require a paid workout subscription for its core cycling and PM5 performance tracking. Owners can use compatible apps and devices for additional training features. Review each app’s own terms if a specific class library or coaching program matters.
Which rower has the biggest screen?
The NordicTrack RW900 Rower has a 24-inch touchscreen among the products in this guide. The Peloton Row features a 23.8-inch screen, and the Hydrow Pro Rower has a 22-inch screen. Screen size is only one factor; compare platform access and workout style too.
Which machine is best for beginners?
The Hydrow Wave Rower is a strong beginner pick for shoppers who want instructor-led rowing guidance. The Concept2 BikeErg suits new cyclists who prefer self-paced sessions and straightforward performance feedback. Comfort, setup and a workout style you’ll repeat matter more than the machine’s feature count.
What should I look for in a Black Friday 2026 rower deal?
Compare the exact model, display, resistance type, membership terms, delivery, assembly, warranty and return policy. Check the full footprint and storage method before checkout. A compelling offer is most useful when the machine fits your room and the training platform suits your routine.