Are you looking to add a rowing machine to your home gym but feeling overwhelmed by the options? Two popular options on the market are the Ergatta Rower and Hydrow Rower. While both offer a high-quality workout experience, they differ in their approach and features.
The Ergatta Rower is an innovative machine with a sleek wooden design that uses gaming-inspired technology to make rowing more engaging and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Hydrow Rower features a modern aesthetic and relies on on-demand classes for a more immersive experience.
Below, we navigate through these two rowing machines, diving into their design, technology, interface, and ease of use.
Ergatta Rower vs Hydrow Comparison Chart
Design
The Ergatta Rower has a traditional-looking wooden design while the Hydrow Rower sports a modern aluminum-and-steel aesthetic.
When it comes to design, the Ergatta Rower and Hydrow Rower take vastly different approaches. The Ergatta rowing machine boasts a handcrafted wooden construction, which lends it an elegant, artisanal aesthetic. Inside any home, the unit is an eye-catching addition.
On the other hand, the Hydrow Rower is a more modern exercise machine that features a frame made of aluminum and steel, with a flat anthracite polymer body. This construction results in a sleeker form accented by seamless curved lines.
Both rowing machines are sizable and stand 86 inches long and at least 40 inches tall when assembled. However, the Ergatta Rower is notably lighter than the Hydrow Rower, coming in at 103 lbs (even when filled), compared to the Hydrow Rower’s weight of 145 lbs. Ergatta’s unit also uses a dual-track system in contrast to Hydrow’s monorail design.
Despite its wooden construction, the Ergatta Rower can accommodate a maximum user weight of 500 lbs, while the Hydrow Rower can only support users up to 375 lbs. However, the Hydrow Rower’s shallow seat design makes it easier to get up and down from the floor, and its wider form provides greater comfort for users with wider hips.
Resistance
The Ergatta Rower uses water resistance while the Hyrdow Rower employs magnetic resistance.
One of the key differences between the Ergatta Rower and the Hydrow Rower lies in their respective resistance systems. The Ergatta utilizes water resistance, where paddles attached to a transparent tank filled with water create resistance that adjusts based on the user’s exertion level. As you row, the sound of water whooshing around in the tank adds to the realistic paddling experience.
On the other hand, the Hydrow Rower employs electromagnetic drag, which utilizes a powerful brake to create consistent resistance, regardless of rowing speed or strength. This system provides users with 10 levels of adjustable resistance, allowing for targeted training programs. Furthermore, the use of magnets results in quiet operation, unlike the Ergatta.
To adjust the resistance on the Ergatta, users need to add or remove water from the tank, which may prove to be a hassle. However, the advantage of the water-resistance system lies in its consistency, as the water constantly moves around the tank, providing a stable resistance level. Meanwhile, the Hydrow’s resistance levels allow for targeted training, although the maximum level of resistance is limited.
Interface
While the Ergatta opts for a competitive game-based experience, the Hydrow Rower relies on more traditional class-based workout programs.
The Ergatta Rower is perfect for those who enjoy a competitive element in their workouts. The machine offers gamified content that makes rowing feel like a fun game.
Ergatta offers a variety of workout formats that cater to different goals. Push Programs, Interval Training, Races, Open Row, and Challenges are some of the options available to users.
On the other hand, the Hydrow Rower offers class-based programs that focus on instructor-led workouts. The machine offers on-demand and live classes led by experienced trainers, providing a more personalized workout experience.
The four primary rowing workout formats available on Hydrow Rower are Breathe, Drive, Journey, and Sweat. These workout formats are instructor-led and incorporate specific intervals of harder efforts and recovery intervals
One significant advantage of Ergatta’s game-based workouts is that they’re easier to produce and update compared to professional-led sessions. Each option is designed to challenge the user in unique ways, adding an element of variety to your workout routine.
In terms of display, the Ergatta Rower’s 17.3-inch touchscreen display is designed to resemble a video game, offering users an immersive and engaging workout experience. In contrast, the Hydrow Rower’s 22-inch display is non-touch and provides users with a clear view of the instructor and the scenery.
Ease of Use
While the Ergatta Rower is easier to move around and store, the Hydrow Rower is more low-maintenance.
While it looks sophisticated with its wooden construction, the Ergatta Rower is easy to assemble. For an additional cost of $199 for shipping, you can even opt for white glove service where Ergatta will deliver, assemble, and fully install your rowing machine.
The Ergatta is also lighter than the Hydrow Rower, making it easier to move around and store. However, one disadvantage of the Ergatta is with its water tank. To prevent algae formation, Ergatta recommends using municipal water.
In contrast, the Hydrow Rower offers free porch or optional in-home assembly. However, it is heavier than the Ergatta and can be difficult to store, especially if you plan to store it vertically. You would need to purchase a separate anchor kit for this purpose.
On the other hand, the Hydrow Rower is easier to maintain as it uses magnetic resistance, which has minimal contact and friction points between parts, requiring minimal maintenance.
Overall, both machines have their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to assembly, storage, and maintenance. It’s important to consider these factors when deciding which machine is right for you and your workout space.
Verdict
If you like competitive game play, opt for the Ergatta Rower. But if you prefer training under professional rowers, opt for the Hydrow Rower.
If you’re looking for a rower that doubles as a conversation-piece, offers game-based workouts, and prefer the challenge and realism of a water-resistance rowing system, the Ergatta Rower is perfect for you.
On the other hand, if you’re a beginner who may need instruction-led workout rowing classes, want a rowing machine that operates quietly and comes with immersive videography, or simply want a modern-looking rower, the Hydrow Rower is the right choice for you.
Ultimately, both machines have their strengths and weaknesses, and your choice will come down to your individual preferences and fitness goals.
FAQs
A membership is required if you want to stream Hydrow workouts or access your metrics. Hydrow’s subscription also gives access to 4,000+ on-demand workouts.
Water-resistance rowing machines provide a more realistic and natural rowing experience compared to magnetic resistance.
Yes. Ergatta says self-assembly takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
Rowing machines offer a low-impact, full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health and strengthens muscles. They also provide a convenient and accessible option for indoor exercise.