Many people ask me to compare the Xebex vs. Concept2 rowing machines. “Are they the same?”, “Which is better?”, “Which one should I buy?”
I own the Concep2 Model D (now called the RowErg), but have had a lot of experience with Xebex rowers at gyms and when training clients.
In the past, I didn’t think the Xebex vs. Concept2 comparison was a hard choice, with the C2 being a clear winner. But do the new Xebex improvements change my mind.
I’ve liked the newer Xebex models much better the times I’ve used them and have received a lot of positive feedback from clients and readers. However, my opinion hasn’t changed much given some of the factors discussed in this article.
For those in a rush:
In comparing the Concept2 vs the Xebex rowers, the Concept2 is the better choice. For example, the Concept2 offers more options for tracking data, Bluetooth, and a backlit monitor. Xebex only offers these features with their premium models (Smart Connect) which cancels out the savings.
If the Xebex were significantly less expensive, it would be a great option. But since you have to pay for shipping (typically $300), you usually end up paying about the same.
This varies I’m sure, and if you can catch one of the Xebex models at a steep discount, it might be worth picking one up.