Ultimate Guide: Best Rowers with Built-In Displays & Workout Libraries — Top Picks, Reviews, and Buying Tips (2025)

Contents

Quick summary: Who this guide is for
Top picks (2025) at a glance
Why choose a rower with a built-in display and workout library?
How built-in displays and workout libraries differ (tech explained)
In-depth reviews: Best rowers with built-in displays & libraries
How to choose: detailed buying checklist
Connectivity, metrics, and performance features to compare
Sample workouts (beginner → advanced)
Maintenance, warranties, and long-term costs
Where to buy and subscription notes
FAQ — common buyer questions
Final recommendation

Quick summary: Who this guide is for

You want an at-home rowing machine with an integrated screen or console and an on-device workout library (not just a basic metric monitor).
You care about guided classes, instructor-led sessions, structured programs, or interactive content without relying solely on a separate tablet.
You want a durable machine that tracks metrics reliably and supports training progression.

Top picks (2025) at a glance

Hydrow Rower — Best overall for live/on-demand outdoor-style classes and immersive display (22" panel). Best for guided studio experience at home. (hydrow.com)
NordicTrack RW900 — Best interactive touchscreen rower with iFit library and adjustable resistance features. (nordictrack.com)
Concept2 Model D + PM5 — Best performance-focused rower (PM5 console) for data accuracy and broad compatibility; lower built-in library but top choice for performance and durability. (concept2.com)
WaterRower Club + S4 Monitor — Best for realistic water feel with an onboard S4 display for metrics and library integration options. (waterrower.com)
Echelon Row XR or Rower Connect — Best budget-friendly connected option with built-in/attachable screens and live classes. (echelonfit.com)
Ergatta (if available) — Best for gamified, leaderboard-driven workouts and narrative-style training (availability may vary; check Ergatta site). (ergatta.com)

Why choose a rower with a built-in display and workout library?

Convenience: Integrated displays and libraries let you jump straight into guided workouts without mounting a tablet or connecting extra devices.
Structured training: Built-in libraries offer progressive plans, live classes, and metrics overlay to keep training consistent.
Motivation and engagement: On-device leaderboards, live metrics, scenic rows, and instructor cues increase adherence to training.
Data continuity: Many consoles save session data locally and sync with apps/third-party platforms for long-term tracking.

Health & performance context

Rowing is a full-body, low-impact aerobic and strength workout that engages legs, core, and upper body while reducing joint stress compared with running — a benefit noted by health sources such as Harvard Health Publishing. (source: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/rowing-machines-a-great-low-impact-workout)
For cardiorespiratory health, adults should aim for at least 150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week per public health guidelines (see American College of Sports Medicine/WHO). (source: https://www.acsm.org)

How built-in displays and workout libraries differ (tech explained)

Console type
- Basic LED/LCD consoles: Show time, strokes, watts, pace, distance and typically do not include video classes.
- Smart/HD touchscreens: 10"–22"+ displays with native apps, streaming classes, and immersive scenic content.
Library types
- Manufacturer library (native): Preloaded and/or streaming classes provided by the rower maker (Hydrow, NordicTrack/iFit, Ergatta).
- Third-party app support: Some rowers support apps like Zwift, Peloton, or Strava via Bluetooth/ANT+ or tablet mounting.
Resistance systems
- Air: Responsive, power-proportional resistance; often paired with performance rows (Concept2). (source: https://www.concept2.com/indoor-rowers)
- Magnetic: Quiet, consistent resistance, often found on commercially styled smart rowers.
- Water: Realistic on-water feel and sound; water tank provides natural resistance scaling (WaterRower).
- Hybrid: Some models combine air and magnetic elements for variable feel.
Connectivity standards
- Bluetooth and ANT+: Heart-rate monitors, cadence, and third-party app syncing.
- Wi‑Fi: Required for streaming classes and on-device libraries.
- Bluetooth audio / AUX: For audio output to headphones or speakers.

In-depth reviews: Best rowers with built-in displays & libraries (detailed) Note: Prices vary over time; check manufacturer pages for current pricing and promotions.

Hydrow Rower — Best overall for live, immersive classes

What it is: A premium, studio-style rower with a large integrated 22" or 21.5" HD touchscreen and a catalog of live + on-demand classes filmed on water and in-studio.
Built-in display & library: Full touchscreen with on-device streaming, individual and group classes, scenic rows, and live leaderboards. (hydrow.com)
Resistance: Electromagnetic (silent motor-assisted drag) offering smooth feel and variable difficulty.
Pros:
- Exceptional content and production value with instructors and scenic rows.
- Large, integrated display; polished app UX.
- Runs stable monthly subscription for new content & live classes.
Cons:
- Premium price point and recurring subscription for full library.
- Less “air” feel compared with traditional ergometers for pure athletes.
Best for: Users who want instructor-led, cinematic workouts and a studio experience at home.
Rating: 4.6 / 5

NordicTrack RW900 — Best interactive touchscreen with iFit

What it is: Connected rower with 22" rotating HD touchscreen that runs iFit content (on-demand + live trainers).
Built-in display & library: iFit membership provides thousands of classes, global scenic rows, and trainer-led workouts. Screen is larger and rotates for off-machine workouts. (nordictrack.com)
Resistance: Magnetic resistance with a Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR) system.
Pros:
- Large rotating screen for varied content.
- Built-in incline/decline features for cross-training in some NordicTrack products.
- Strong value when bundled with iFit promotions.
Cons:
- iFit subscription required for best experience.
- Heavier footprint; may be noisy compared to water.
Best for: Users who want an all-in-one multimedia fitness platform.
Rating: 4.4 / 5

Concept2 Model D with PM5 console — Best for performance, accuracy, and durability

What it is: The industry standard rowing ergometer used in gyms and competition; PM5 is a powerful, accurate performance monitor.
Built-in display & library: PM5 console displays comprehensive metrics (pace, splits, watts, calories) and can store workouts, but doesn’t include a native video workout library. It pairs well with third-party apps and monitors. (concept2.com)
Resistance: Air flywheel — highly responsive and used by competitive rowers.
Pros:
- Best-in-class durability, repairability, and accessory support.
- Most accurate power measurement for training and testing.
- Wide aftermarket and coaching ecosystem.
Cons:
- No native on-device streaming workout library (you can mount a tablet for classes).
- Less “immersive” than touchscreen studio rowers unless paired with apps.
Best for: Athletes, rowers, and users prioritizing analytics and robust hardware.
Rating: 4.7 / 5

WaterRower (Club/Rowing Machine) + S4 Monitor — Best for realistic water feel and simple onboard metrics

What it is: A wood-framed rower using a water tank for resistance and the S4 monitor for core metrics.
Built-in display & library: The S4 monitor shows pace, distance, time, and stroke rate. WaterRower’s experience emphasizes feel over an on-device video library, though third-party integration is possible. (waterrower.com)
Resistance: Water tank — authentic rowing sensation and soothing water sound.
Pros:
- Aesthetic wood design; authentic on-water sensation.
- Low maintenance; durable build.
Cons:
- Smaller monitor and limited built-in library.
- Less focused on interactive programming compared with Hydrow/NordicTrack.
Best for: Users who prioritize feel and home aesthetics over integrated streaming content.
Rating: 4.2 / 5

Echelon Row (e.g., Row XR, Rower Connect) — Best budget-friendly connected option

What it is: Echelon offers a range of rowers that integrate with Echelon Live classes and an app ecosystem, often at a lower price point than Hydrow or NordicTrack.
Built-in display & library: Some Echelon rowers include a mount or integrated tablet-style display and offer live/on-demand rowing classes via Echelon Fit. (echelonfit.com)
Resistance: Magnetic resistance; generally quiet.
Pros:
- More affordable hardware and subscription model.
- Decent library of classes and community features.
Cons:
- Build quality and monitor fidelity are generally lower than premium competitors.
- Smaller screen options and fewer cinematic rowing experiences.
Best for: Budget-conscious users who want guided classes without premium pricing.
Rating: 4.0 / 5

Ergatta — Best gamified, progression-driven workouts (availability variable)

What it is: Ergatta focused on game-style, narrative workouts with a web-based console and structured programming tailored to pacing and gamified segments.
Built-in display & library: Large integrated screen, interactive leaderboards, and story-driven workouts. Availability and shipping have varied; check Ergatta for current status. (ergatta.com)
Pros:
- Highly engaging gamified format and measurable progression.
- Strong emphasis on pacing and structured training.
Cons:
- Past production/availability concerns; verify current availability and warranty before purchase.
Best for: Users who enjoy gamified training and competition with others.
Rating: 4.3 / 5 (if available)

How to choose: detailed buying checklist

Display & content
- Screen size: 7"–22"+ depending on model. Bigger screens improve immersion for scenic rows and classes.
- Native library vs. third-party support: Do you want built-in classes or will you use external apps on a mounted tablet?
- Subscription model: Factor ongoing monthly/annual costs (Hydrow, iFit, Echelon).
Resistance type and feel
- Air: Responsive and preferred by athletes (Concept2).
- Water: Natural feel and sound (WaterRower).
- Magnetic: Quiet and low-maintenance (NordicTrack, Echelon).
Metrics & performance
- Which metrics are essential? (split/500m pace, watts, strokes per minute, calories)
- Export/sync: Does the console export workouts to Strava/Apple Health/TrainingPeaks?
Connectivity
- Wi‑Fi for streaming content
- Bluetooth/ANT+ for HR straps and sensors
- USB for firmware updates
Build quality & warranty
- Commercial-grade vs. home-grade warranties and product durability.
Footprint & storage
- Foldability, caster wheels, storage footprint for your space.
Weight capacity & user fit
- Max user weight and recommended user height.
Noise level
- Air and water rowers produce distinct sounds; magnetic models are quieter.
Maintenance & service
- How easy are replacement parts and service? Are firmware updates frequent?

Connectivity, metrics, and performance features to compare

Common metrics to expect: time, distance, pace (split/500m), strokes per minute (SPM), watts, calories, heart-rate (if paired).
Advanced features to prioritize:
- Power accuracy (watts) for structured training.
- Interval programming and on-screen prompts (pace boats, target splits).
- Native Bluetooth/ANT+ for HR sensors; USB or Wi‑Fi for cloud sync.
App and data ecosystem:
- Hydrow and iFit provide full libraries and proprietary tracking.
- Concept2 PM5 stores workouts and exports via USB or pairs with third-party apps like ErgData, Kinomap, or Zwift on compatible devices. (concept2.com)
Third-party integration:
- Zwift supports rowing via Concept2 (with an adapter) and some smart rowers supporting speed/power inputs. (zwift.com)

Sample workouts (beginner → advanced)

Beginner: Technique-focus (20–25 minutes)
- 5 min easy warm-up: 18–22 SPM, conversational pace.
- 10 x 1 min steady with 1 min easy recovery (focus on full leg drive, then lean back, then arms).
- 5–8 min cool-down row + light stretching.
Intermediate: Endurance + power (40 minutes)
- 10 min warm-up with progressively increasing SPM.
- 20 min steady-state at threshold pace (target half-marathon intensity; constant split).
- 6 x 1 min power strokes at higher resistance with 1 min easy recoveries.
- 5 min cooldown.
Advanced HIIT: VO2/sprint session (30 minutes)
- 10 min warm-up including 8 x 10-second build efforts.
- 5 rounds: 3 min hard (near VO2), 3 min easy recovery.
- 4 x 20 seconds all-out sprints with 2 min easy between.
- 5–8 min cooldown.
Technique drill (10 minutes)
- 4 rounds: 1 min legs-only, 1 min legs+core (no arms), 1 min full stroke, 30 sec rest.

Maintenance, warranties, and long-term costs

Typical maintenance tasks:
- Wipe down seat rails and console after workouts to prevent corrosion and sweat damage.
- Check bolts and fasteners periodically.
- Air rowers: keep flywheel clear of dust; replace chain oil on older models as recommended.
- Water rowers: change water annually and use purification tablets per manufacturer.
Warranty expectations:
- Commercial-grade machines often offer longer frame/part warranties. Check each model’s warranty details before purchase.
Subscription costs:
- Hydrow: monthly/annual subscription for live/on-demand classes.
- iFit (NordicTrack): subscription-based content.
- Echelon: lower monthly cost tiers.
- Concept2: no required subscription for PM5 but apps/third-party services may cost extra.
Long-term ROI:
- Consider hardware lifespan, frequency of use, and whether you’ll maintain subscription access to retain full value of an immersive display.

Where to buy and subscription notes

Manufacturer stores: Best for warranty and direct support (Hydrow, Concept2, NordicTrack, WaterRower, Echelon).
Large retailers: Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and select specialty fitness retailers often carry popular models.
Refurbished and used: Concept2 machines hold value on the used market; Hydrow and others may have certified refurbished options—verify warranty.
Subscription considerations:
- Confirm the length of any included trial and monthly/annual price.
- Check whether offline content is available (some services require active connection for many features).

FAQ — common buyer questions Q: Do I need a subscription to use the rower? A: It depends. Some rowers (Hydrow, NordicTrack/iFit, Echelon) require or encourage subscriptions for the full library. Concept2 and WaterRower operate without mandatory subscriptions for basic functionality, but you can pair them with apps if desired.

Q: Is a built-in display worth the added cost? A: If you want an out-of-the-box guided experience and high engagement through live classes/scenic rows, yes. For data-focused athletes who already use tablets/phones and prefer raw performance, a non-streaming but accurate monitor (Concept2 PM5) may be better value.

Q: Which resistance type is best? A: For competitive training and accurate power metrics, air (Concept2) is preferred. For realistic on-water feel, water rowers shine. For quiet operation and family environments, magnetic systems (NordicTrack, Echelon) are often better.

Q: How accurate are the on-device metrics? A: Premium consoles (e.g., Concept2 PM5) are highly accurate for watts and pacing. Some manufacturer-calculated calories can vary; use watts for objective power-based training. (concept2.com)

Q: Can I use my own tablet on these rowers? A: Many rowers have tablet mounts or removable consoles. If you prefer third-party apps (Zwift, YouTube classes, Peloton-style content), you can often mount a tablet on Concept2, WaterRower, or Echelon models.

Final recommendation (how to decide)

Choose Hydrow if you want the best integrated studio experience, cinematic scenic rows, and a polished touchscreen library.
Choose NordicTrack RW900 if you want a large rotating touchscreen and wide iFit content (and cross-training options).
Choose Concept2 Model D + PM5 if you want unmatched durability, accuracy, and the best performance erg for serious training (mount a tablet for classes).
Choose WaterRower if you prioritize a realistic water feel and a stylish home machine with basic onboard metrics.
Choose Echelon if you’re budget-conscious but want a connected class experience.