# Concept2 vs. Aviron Rower — Comparison Page **Page type:** Comparison **Summary:** Aviron compares its Strong Series rower to the Concept2, arguing that while the Concept2 is the gold standard for durability and performance data, Aviron adds a large touchscreen, dual air + magnetic resistance, 8 workout categories, streaming apps, patented adjustable foot pads, and a 20-year warranty to keep everyday users engaged and rowing consistently. --- ## Overview The Concept2 is the most respected rower ever built, but Aviron wraps the same full-body workout in games, classes, scenic rows, and Netflix. Aviron reports that 92% of its members are still rowing a year later. - Free shipping - Free returns within 30 days - No questions asked - HSA/FSA eligible --- ## Head-to-Head: Aviron Strong Series vs. Concept2 | Feature | Aviron Strong Series | Concept2 | |---|---|---| | Built-In Screen | Large pivoting touchscreen (270° rotation, tilts up/down) | Small PM5 data monitor (metrics only) | | Workout Categories | 8 (games, classes, scenic, races, programs, streaming) | Metrics only | | Streaming Apps (Netflix, YouTube, etc.) | Yes, built in | No | | Instructor-Led Classes | Yes (Les Mills + more) | No | | Resistance | Dual air + magnetic, 16 true levels + strength mode | Air only, 1–10 damper (feel, not set load) | | Noise | ~60 dB belt drive | Loud (air + chain belt) | | Seat Height | 20" seat, low 10" rail | 14" | | 4-Way Adjustable Foot Pads | Yes (patented) | No (fixed narrow width) | | Frame Warranty | 20 years | 5 years | --- ## Key Differentiators Explained ### Screen & Content The Concept2 PM5 is a monochrome, calculator-sized data device showing pace, watts, and splits. To access classes or streaming, users must bring and prop up their own phone or tablet. Aviron builds a large touchscreen directly into the machine. It rotates 270° and tilts up and down. Games, classes, scenic rows, and streaming apps are all built in — zero setup required. ### Resistance System - **Concept2:** Air resistance with a 1–10 damper. The damper changes the feel of airflow, not a set load. Actual effort is whatever the user generates by pulling harder. - **Aviron:** Dual air + magnetic resistance across 16 true levels (roughly 1–100 lbs). Levels 1–10 for cardio, levels 11–16 for strength. Adjustable by tap, optional handlebar remote, mid-stroke, or automatically by the software based on fitness level and workout. ### Noise - **Concept2:** Air rower with chain belt — loud enough that many owners cannot hear the TV over it. - **Aviron Strong Series:** Commercial-grade belt drive at approximately 60 dB (normal conversation level). Suitable for apartments, early morning use, or rowing while watching a movie. ### Seat Height & Accessibility - **Concept2:** Standard seat sits 14" off the floor. Footrests adjust for strap height only, not width. - **Aviron:** Seat sits at a chair-height 20" with a low 10" rail. Patented 4-way foot pads widen and narrow to fit nearly any user — accommodating households where users range from 5'2" to 6'4", or anyone needing a wider stance or with tight hips. ### Durability & Warranty - **Concept2:** Legendary durability, famous for lasting decades. Written warranty: 5 years on the frame, 2 years on parts. - **Aviron Strong Series:** 20-year limited warranty on the frame. ### Workout Variety & Retention Aviron offers 8 workout categories: - Games - Instructor-led classes (Les Mills + more) - Scenic rows - Live multiplayer races - Programs - Streaming apps (Netflix, YouTube, etc.) - Metrics/performance tracking - Competition Aviron reports 92% of members are still rowing one year later. --- ## Which Rower Is Right for You? ### Choose Aviron if: You want a world-class full-body workout and acknowledge that a wall of split times won't keep you coming back. You want games, classes, streaming, scenic rows, and live competition built in — at an easy step-in height, with adjustable foot width, quiet enough for an apartment, backed by a 20-year warranty. Aviron's 8 categories are designed to prevent fitness equipment from gathering dust. ### Choose Concept2 if: You are a competitive or CrossFit rower, or already deeply self-motivated and don't need a screen to stay consistent. You want the lowest upfront price and the best resale value available. The Concept2 is the gold standard for people who already love to row. > "C2 is the perfect rower for people who love to row. Aviron is the perfect rower for people who want to love it — and need the machine to meet them halfway." --- ## Member Reviews > "I owned a C2 for three years. It's a tank, but I dreaded it. Twenty minutes staring at that little screen felt like punishment, so I stopped. The Aviron is the first rower I've been excited to get on. Six months in and I haven't missed a week. My C2 never got me past three." > > — **Dylan R.**, Verified Buyer > "I'm overweight with two bad knees. Getting on and off the C2 at the store was a struggle, and it was impossible to reach the handlebar with the narrow foot plates. The Aviron's seat is at chair height and the foot pads adjust to my wide stance. I'm very happy with my purchase." > > — **Marie L.**, Verified Buyer > "I almost bought the C2 to save money. Then I did the honest math on myself: I've quit every machine I've owned. A $990 rower I'd abandon wasn't 'cheaper,' just a cheaper mistake. A year later I'm stronger and still rowing four days a week." > > — **Trevor M.**, Verified Buyer --- ## Community 10,000+ owners post daily in the Aviron Facebook community — workouts, wins, real talk, and honest questions. [See the Conversation] : https://www.facebook.com/groups/avironactive/ --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **What's the difference between Aviron and Concept2?** Concept2 is an air rower with a small metrics-only monitor, no built-in content, no subscription, and a legendary build. Aviron adds a large touchscreen, dual air + magnetic resistance with 16 levels, 1,000+ workouts across 8 categories (games, classes, streaming, competition), patented adjustable foot pads, and a 20-year warranty. Concept2 wins on price and resale; Aviron wins on everything that keeps a normal person rowing. **The Concept2 is half the price. Why would I pay double?** If upfront cost is the only consideration, the Concept2 is the smart buy. But a rower that becomes a laundry rack by spring is the most expensive rower you can own. Aviron costs more because it's built to keep you rowing — and 92% of Aviron members still are a year later. **Isn't the Concept2 a better-built, more durable machine?** It's legendarily durable. But durability was never why people quit home rowers — boredom is. Aviron is also built to last, with a 20-year warranty vs. Concept2's 5-year frame warranty. You don't have to choose between a machine that lasts and one you'll actually use. **Is air resistance better than Aviron's dual system?** Air feels natural, and Concept2 does it as well as anyone. But the 1–10 damper changes airflow, not a set level — your workload is whatever you generate. Aviron's dual system gives you the same feel plus 16 true levels (including a strength range) adjustable by tap or remote mid-row. **Do I need a subscription, and what if I cancel?** Concept2 needs no subscription, but it also has no content to keep fresh. Aviron's membership unlocks 1,000+ workouts with new content monthly. Cancel and the machine still works: metrics, streaming apps, and tracking all keep functioning. **The Concept2 is made in the USA. Where is Aviron made?** Concept2 is proudly made in Vermont. Aviron is designed in-house to commercial-grade standards and backed by the longest warranty in the category. **Can I use my HSA or FSA?** Yes. Aviron is HSA/FSA eligible through Truemed, effectively 30–40% off depending on your tax bracket. **Is Aviron hard to assemble?** Assembly takes 30–60 minutes with all tools included. White Glove Delivery is available and covers placement, assembly, WiFi setup, and packaging removal. --- ## Trial & Guarantee - 30-day risk-free home trial - Free shipping - Free returns — no questions asked - HSA/FSA eligible - 20-year warranty - 50,000+ members [Try Aviron Risk-Free] : https://www.avironactive.com/shop/strong-series-rower/ [Book a free virtual demo] : https://calendly.com/d/cp9r-s66-b7v --- **Canonical URL:** https://www.avironactive.com/comparison/aviron-rower-vs-concept2-rower/