If you’ve been shopping for your first rowing machine, or maybe a new rower to replace an old one, and you’ve narrowed down your choices to Concept 2, congrats!
This is one of the top-selling rowing machines ever made. While it’s been around since the early 1980s, you will find that the newer models have a lot of cool features that make rowing fun.
Let’s not forget that there are dozens of online forums where Concept 2 owners can get together and chat, ask questions, and brag about their stats!
If you’re having trouble trying to decide between Model D and Model E indoor rowers, you’ve come to the right place.
In a Hurry? Here are the Rowers We Are Comparing:
Want to know which rower is the best between Concept 2 Model D or Model E but don’t have time to read the whole article? Click on the links below to get our answers.
- Concept 2 Model D
- Concept 2 Model E
*We review fitness products impartially and may earn a commission from affiliate links. For details see our disclosure page.
In today’s article, I want to talk about the differences between these two machines and which one might work better for you. Have a seat, and let’s get right down to brass tacks, shall we?
What Is the Difference Between Concept 2 Model D and Model E?
The Model D is the Concept2 rowing machine that you will see most often. It’s been around the longest and can be seen in gyms, Olympic workout rooms, and many home gyms.
Some people think that Concept 2 is the perfect rowing machine.
Then they came out with Model E.
Wait, if the Model D was the perfect machine, what’s up with the new model, and what are the differences?
While there aren’t many major differences, the ones that you will read about here can be significant for some people.
Seat Height
First, the seat on the Model E is higher than the Model D. For anyone who has difficulty sitting down on the 14-inch seat on the Model D, those few extra inches can mean the difference between getting in your exercise or not.
If you have bad knees, or other health issues that make it difficult to sit down or get up from low seats, the Model E is most likely your best option.
Steel Chain
The nickel-plated steel chain is super tough and is obviously different than the plain steel on the Model D. When steel has a nickel plate, it is virtually impenetrable by rust or corrosion.
The chain housing is also different with Model D being partially enclosed, while the Model E is fully enclosed.
Monitor Arm
The adjustable monitor arm on the Model D can pivot, but the arm itself is shorter. On the Model E, the monitor arm is longer so that you can read the display more easily, but the fixed monitor arm means you can’t move it nor does it pivot.
This is really a matter of preference. If you can read the monitor from a distance, then the Model D is your best bet, but for those of you who are a bit short or if your eyesight isn’t what is used to be, you might benefit from the longer monitor arm on the Model E.
The Model E also features a double powder-coat frame with a layer of clear coat, similar to the paint on your car, to keep it looking shiny and new.
Ergonomic Seat
It also sports a new, ergonomically designed seat so that your behind doesn’t get numb or sore.
Of course, you could order a new Model E seat and install it on a Model D if you already own one, but if you’re buying new, this might be an important factor.
You can see all the key differences here in this chart.
Concept2 Model Name
|
Model D |
Model E |
Machine Weight |
57 Pounds |
94 Pounds |
Maximum User Weight Capacity |
500 Pounds |
500 Pounds |
Dimensions of the Machine |
96 in X 24 in X 28 in |
96 in X 24 in X 28 in |
Dimensions Required for Use |
9 ft Long X 4 ft Wide |
9 ft Long X 4 ft Wide |
Storage Dimensions |
25 in x 33 in x 54 in |
27 in x 47 in x 54. 5 in |
Seat Height |
14 Inches |
20 Inches |
While these items may not seem like major differences, knowing them will help you decide whether you want to spend the extra money on the Model E or not.
How Are These Two Rowing Machines Alike?
Both Model D and Model E will give you the great, full-body workout you expect from an indoor rowing machine.
The two models are actually more alike than they are different. Both the model E indoor rower and the model D:
- have the same build quality and extruded aluminum frame
- have aluminum rails that are capped with a stainless steel track for optimum wear
- have aluminum front legs and steel rear legs
- have the same maximum weight capacity, which is 600 pounds
- use air resistance, which means that it uses a fan blade inside a cage. The harder and faster you row, the more resistance you create, causing you to work harder.
- use the same PM5 monitor and workout programs
- can be taken apart and folded for a smaller footprint when storing
- have the same warranty: 5 years on frame and 2 years on parts
- have the same ergonomic footrests and handle
Do Both Rowing Machines Use a Damper?
Yes, they do.
For those who are unfamiliar with this term, a damper puts a limit on the amount of air that enters the fan cage. By limiting the amount of air, a beginner won’t have to struggle or become disappointed due to too much air resistance.
Imagine that you are first starting out lifting weights. You would be really disappointed if the only weights available were 50-pound dumbbells. As your fitness level improved, you would eventually be able to lift those 50-pound weights, but you probably need to start off with 10-pound weights, right?
The same is true with the damper. It limits airflow so beginners and those who are less advanced can gradually increase the amount of resistance so they get the same fitness benefits as those who can handle high levels of resistance. FYI have you heard about Concept 2 on Slides? They can really enhance and improve your training sessions.
Is the Model E Hard to Assemble?
No, not really.
The Model E will be delivered in what looks like two big boxes and you might think “OMG, what have I gotten myself into?” but don’t worry, the boxes look more complicated than they really are.
Most people are pleasantly surprised to find that Model E indoor rowers require only 10 screws to assemble the entire thing. You can probably do it by yourself. Many people say that they took the Model E from box to a fully-assembled rowing machine in about 30 minutes.
When it comes to storing them, both models fold and can be wheeled to another location easily since neither one is very heavy. Check the chart above to make sure that you have enough space to both use and store your rowing machine.
Is the Concept 2 Model D Loud?
Yes, they can be, both models tend to be fairly loud. While Concept rowing machine has made improvements to try to limit the amount of noise these machines create, it’s nearly impossible to make a silent air resistance machine.
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