Home rowing machines are all the rage these days, and not just because more people are foregoing gym memberships and working out at home instead. Rowing is a fun way to get your daily dose of cardio, and it builds strength while simultaneously burning calories.
If you're interested in purchasing a rowing machine for your home gym, there are two models that are well worth the investment: the ProForm 750R and the Concept 2 Model D. Both of these machines have received a lot of positive feedback from people of all fitness levels, and they both come equipped with all the features and functions you need to sweat it out at home.
In this comparison guide of the ProForm 750R rower vs Concept 2, we'll provide you with all the similarities, differences, and pros and cons of each machine to help you decide which one is right for you.
- Quick Comparison Of The ProForm 750R Vs Concept 2 Rowers
- ProForm 750R Rower Vs Concept 2 - Which Is Better For Home Workouts?
- Overview Of The ProForm 750R Rowing Machine
- Pros & Cons Of The Popular ProForm 750R Rower
- Overview Of The Concept 2 Rowing Machine
- Pros & Cons Of The Popular Concept 2 Rower
- People Also Ask (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Quick Comparison Of The ProForm 750R Vs Concept 2 Rowers
We’ll cover each of the features in-depth later on, but if you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick comparison of the winning rower for each feature of the ProForm 750R vs Concept 2 Model D.
Feature | ProForm 750R | Concept 2 |
Footprint & Storage | Cell | |
Rowing Experience | ||
Weight & Height Capacity | Cell | |
Aesthetics & Build Quality | Cell | |
Integrated Tech Features | Cell | |
Performance Monitoring | Cell | |
Fitness Programs | Cell | |
Ease of Assembly | Cell | |
Purchase Price & Ongoing Costs | Cell |
ProForm 750R Rower Vs Concept 2 - Which Is Better For Home Workouts?
It’s officially time for the ProForm 750R vs Concept 2 showdown. Below, we'll go through and compare all of the main features of both rowers to determine which one is the winner. So without further ado, let’s see how these rowing machines match up.
Footprint & Storage
Compared to other rowers in its class, the Concept 2 machine is quite long. Its length is a whopping 96”, which may not seem like that big of a difference compared to the 86.5” length of the 750R, but if you’re short on space, that extra 10” might not work for you. Of course, you’ll want to check the dimensions with your available space for either machine, but it’s even more vital for the long Concept.
Even with its larger footprint, the Concept 2 is much lighter than the ProForm rower. This has to do with the lightweight aluminum construction, which weighs significantly less than the steel frame of the ProForm. While the Concept 2 rower is just 57 pounds, the 750R is about 116 pounds, so if you want a lightweight machine, the Concept 2 is worth considering.
Luckily, the 750R comes with transport wheels as well as a foldable rower design for easy moving and storage. The same goes for the Concept 2 rower, but instead of folding at the center like the 750R, it actually breaks down into two separate pieces for a much smaller footprint.
Comfortable & Realistic Rowing Experience
The Concept2 is chain-driven, while the ProForm rower is belt-driven. In most cases, belt-driven rowers are found to be smoother than chain-driven models, but in this case, the chain-driven system doesn’t seem to have any negative impact whatsoever on the Concept 2’s rowing experience.
The realistic rowing experience of the Concept 2 is a big reason for this rower's popularity. It utilizes air resistance, which isn't everyone's cup of tea, but it's suitable for all rowing levels, and it's easy to adjust by changing the damper position on the flywheel. There are 10 tension levels, 1 being the easiest and 10 being the most challenging.
The ProForm runs on digital magnetic resistance (24 levels), which automatically adjusts based on the recommendations of the personal trainer leading the workout. Many people prefer this type of resistance, not only because it adjusts automatically but because it's less noisy than air moving through the flywheel to create tension.
In terms of comfort features, both rowers have a lot of positive qualities. The Concept 2 is perfectly comfortable, even for large and tall individuals, but we found the 750R slightly more comfortable with its molded seat, multi-position handlebars, and oversized pivoting pedals.
Weight & Height Capacity
The clear winner when it comes to weight limitations is the Concept 2 rower. This machine can hold up to 500 pounds of user weight, which is double the weight capacity of the ProForm’s 250-pound limit. So if you’re over 250 pounds, or even close to it, the Concept 2 is a better choice.
ProForm doesn’t actually state any height limitations, but considering the long steel seat rail, we imagine that even the tallest individuals can use this machine. Concept 2 lists in its specifications that it fits inseams up to 38”, which accommodates individuals who are as tall as 6’6”.
Aesthetics & Build Quality
Aesthetically, these machines are very similar. The frames are both primarily black, but while the Concept 2 has bright pops of lime green accents throughout, the ProForm rower uses red as the accent color.
The one you prefer really just comes down to whether you favor yellow-green over red (or vice versa).
The quality of both machines is second to none, but it’s easy to argue that the Concept 2 rower is higher in quality based on the maximum weight limitations. While the aluminum frame is lightweight, it’s also extremely durable, so in this category, the award goes to Concept 2.
Integrated Tech Features & Fitness Programs
Neither rower is considered top-of-the-line when it comes to integrated technology. They both come with all the necessary tech features to keep track of fitness stats and goals, but you won’t find Peloton-level technology with the ProForm or Concept 2. If that’s what you’re looking for, you’ll want to consider rowers like the Ergatta or the NordicTrack RW900 instead.
The ProForm rower easily connects to the iFit platform of fitness content and it comes equipped with a tablet holder so that you can stream your favorite iFit workouts while rowing. The console doesn’t actually stream these videos, so you’ll need your own tablet to access the workouts.
With the Concept 2, you’ll have access to 5 standard workouts, 5 custom workouts, and 3 rowing games. These are the built-in workouts, but you can access more through compatible fitness software and apps. The backlit LCD display isn’t nearly as impressive as the 750R - it’s often described as “barebones” - but it gets the job done in tracking progress and delivering stats.
Both machines are Bluetooth compatible, and both are compatible with heart rate monitoring chest straps, but you’ll have to purchase your heart rate monitor separately if you want to use this feature.
Performance Monitoring
As mentioned before, the Concept 2 monitoring system is pretty basic. It comes with a small PM5 monitor that delivers the necessary fitness data as you row - that’s about it.
You have the option to download the free ErgData app, which can connect wirelessly via Bluetooth to the rower’s display. Once connected, it gives you additional statistics, stores and displays your workout results, and uploads your workouts to the Concept2 Online Logbook.
The ProForm rower uses a 5” high-contrast display to deliver your workout stats. Using the console, you can easily select your resistance level and monitor workout stats like calories burned, the time elapsed, distance, and speed. The ProForm’s monitor is slightly more advanced than the Concept 2’s, but not by much.
Ease Of Assembly
According to ProForm's FAQ page, “the 750R Rower has out-of-the-box easy assembly. You will want 2 people for assembly because some of the pieces are quite heavy.” Aside from needing an additional pair of hands, the assembly process is straightforward and shouldn’t take more than 45 minutes.
Because the Concept 2 is much lighter (just under 60 pounds), it’s possible to assemble it on your own. It includes everything you need for a quick setup. The front legs are installed using 8 screws, and you can follow along using the clear instructions provided. After opening the box and laying everything out, you should be able to have this machine set up in 20 to 30 minutes.
Purchase Price & Ongoing Costs
The initial purchase cost for these machines is about the same, so if you’re looking for a clear winner in this category, you won’t find it. However, it’s also important to consider ongoing costs.
While there aren’t any ongoing costs for maintenance (you just have to keep the machines clean and lubricated), there is a monthly subscription fee for using iFit with your ProForm rower. You get to try out iFit for free for 30 days, but after that, it’s $39/month for a family membership. An iFit subscription isn’t required to use the machine, but most ProForm users opt for it.
Overview Of The ProForm 750R Rowing Machine
- Start Your Complimentary 30-Day iFIT...
- Adjustable Tablet Holder; stream interactive...
- 24 Digital Resistance Levels; With iFIT, your...
- Folding SpaceSaver Design; When not in use,...
ProForm is a world leader in home fitness equipment, specializing in everything from treadmills and bikes to ellipticals and rowers. The brand's 750R rowing model is one of only a few rowers that the company currently manufacturers, and it's the #1 choice for a number of reasons.
First off, the ProForm 750R gives users access to full-body, trainer-led workouts from the comforts of home. It uses an inertia-enhanced flywheel to create a smooth, realistic rowing motion, and the resistance will change automatically based on the recommendations of the trainer you’re following.
This machine is sleek and stylish with a black frame and red flywheel, but the design doesn’t just focus on aesthetics. In addition to being nice to look at, the 750R was built with convenience in mind. It features a space-saving design that allows users to fold the rower into a much smaller footprint when it’s time to store the machine.
Pros & Cons Of The Popular ProForm 750R Rower
ProForm has a strong reputation for delivering reliable, durable cardio equipment, but nothing is perfect, and the 750R rower is no exception. Here’s what you can expect in terms of the good and bad.
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
Overview Of The Concept 2 Rowing Machine
- Integrated Device Holder allows you to keep...
- 14-inch seat height fits most uses....
- Indoor rowing is an effective full-body and...
- Includes the Performance Monitor 5, giving...
Concept 2 is a brand that’s known specifically for its rowing machines. They also manufacture indoor bikes and other fitness gear, but rowing machines are without a doubt the company’s main focus, and the Concept 2 Model D indoor rower is their top-selling rower.
Over the past 40 years, this rower has been a best-seller in this category of cardio equipment, and it mainly has to do with its dependable performance. Concept 2 states that the “uncompromising quality and dependability” are what make this rower so special, and the good majority of Model D users agree.
Unlike many rowing machines, including the 750R, the Concept 2 runs on air resistance instead of magnetic. Air resistance allows you to manually control the level of tension based on how fast or slow you row, making the Concept 2 a great choice if you want simple (yet effective) rowing workouts.
The machine is used by elite athletes for competitive training, but it also caters to beginner rowers looking for a calorie-burning cardio workout. This model isn’t as focused on integrated tech features, but it’s one of the most reliable rowers on the market, and its top-selling status over the past 4 decades has proven that.
Pros & Cons Of The Popular Concept 2 Rower
There are a lot of great things to say about the Concept 2 rower, but there are also a few complaints and potential areas of improvement. Here’s a breakdown of the Model D’s pros and cons.
What We Like
What We Don’t Like
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is the ProForm 750R quiet?
Yes! ProForm designed this machine with “peaceful paddling” in mind, and the machine was made to keep the peace in your home - even when rowing at the highest intensity. Thanks to ProForm’s SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance, your workout is quiet and smooth, so you won’t disturb anyone else around you.
How hard is it to assemble these rowing machines?
Not hard at all. Both rowers come with easy-to-follow manuals, and you can find video tutorials on each of the assembly methods. Just keep in mind that the 750R is almost 120 pounds, so it’s recommended that you have someone around to help with putting the machine together, which isn’t the case for Concept 2 assembly.
How do you unlock a ProForm 750R?
Some people struggle with unlocking the console of the 750R, but it’s actually quite simple. All you have to do is press and hold the machine’s Bluetooth button. Hold it down for 30 seconds until a green light appears, and then continue to hold it until the button displays a full circle. Once you’ve done that, your rower’s console is unlocked and ready to use.
How does the ProForm 550R compare to these rowers?
The 550R rowing machine is very similar to the 750R, but the main difference is the console setup. The console of the 750R is more advanced, so it’s considered a “step up” from the previous 550R model.
When comparing the ProForm 550R vs Concept 2, both machines are equally capable of delivering a challenging workout, and they're both suitable for all fitness levels. However, the Concept 2 has a much higher weight capacity of 500 pounds compared to the 550R’s 250-pound capacity.
How do you store both of these rowing machines?
Both rowing machines fold in half and can be stored in the upright position. Both even come with transport wheels, allowing you to roll the machine out of the way without causing damage to your floors.
Conclusion
As you can see from the quick comparison chart above, there’s no clear winner between the ProForm rower and the Concept 2. Each machine has its own unique set of pros and cons, so the one you choose ultimately comes down to what you’re hoping to get from your rowing machine.
If we had to choose a winner, it would be the ProForm 750R. The tech features on this rower are more advanced, and the magnetic resistance is smooth and silent. However, the Concept 2 is a better choice for anyone who prefers air resistance or any users who require a high maximum weight capacity.
Last Updated on April 20, 2022
