Hydrow vs. Ergatta: Which Smart Rower Wins at Home?
Ergatta leans into gaming and self-guided progress, while Hydrow doubles down on immersive storytelling and instructor-led workouts; here’s how they compare
The Hydrow Arc Rower and Ergatta Rower are both premium machines with strong design and smart software but they serve two different types of users.
Hydrow leans toward a cinematic instructor-led experience while Ergatta focuses on self-paced performance-driven workouts designed around game mechanics and adaptive calibration.
Hydrow Arc v. Ergatta Rower: The Basics
The Hydrow Arc Rower, priced at $2,295 with a $44 monthly membership, builds upon the brand’s original model with improved processing, enhanced speakers and support for AI-based performance tracking. Ergatta, which retails for $2,499 (often discounted) with a $39 membership, merges WaterRower craftsmanship with smart software that personalizes resistance and difficulty.
Hydrow Arc v. Ergatta Rower: Setup & Assembly
While Hydrow’s assembly itself was quick, taking less than 15 minutes once scheduled, the process of arranging delivery required more coordination. There was some initial difficulty with the delivery scheduling though the customer service team was extremely kind and responsive throughout. Once installed, the machine felt sturdy and well-built. The large pivoting touchscreen, slightly bigger than a Peloton monitor, is a standout feature, making it easy to transition between rowing workouts and other programs like strength, yoga and stretching. The rower operates quietly without a chain or water tank and the included floor mat was a thoughtful addition. However, unlike Ergatta, the Hydrow can’t be stored upright which limits its flexibility in smaller spaces, unless you buy the Upright Storage Kit.
Ergatta’s setup experience was entirely seamless. Delivery and installation were quick and its cherrywood frame looks elegant and compact in a home environment. The ability to store the machine vertically makes it far more practical for apartments or shared living spaces. The interface takes a little time to get used to but is intuitive once familiar, displaying key performance metrics clearly. The overall experience feels efficient and simple with no unnecessary steps or onboarding friction.
Hydrow Arc v. Ergatta Rower: Workout Experience
Hydrow’s strength lies in its immersive instructor-led classes. The sessions are filmed in cinematic detail both indoors and outdoors with scenic locations ranging from the Charles River to glacial Alaskan waters. The visuals are striking, complete with aerial and close-up footage that capture both the natural environment and the rowers’ technique. Users can take live or on-demand classes, compete on a leaderboard or follow structured programs that target endurance, power or precision. The instructors are experienced rowers who cue technique effectively and maintain an engaging tone throughout. The ability to adjust music genres and drag settings adds a level of personalization that keeps the platform dynamic.
Ergatta’s approach is different. Rather than relying on coaching or live instruction, the system adapts to the user’s output and progress over time. The calibration workout establishes personalized targets and future sessions adjust automatically to maintain challenge. The result is a workout that feels balanced, consistent and measurable. The Push Programs create a structured path toward goals like improving endurance or achieving faster splits while the game-based modes make each session feel interactive. The water resistance feels natural and fluid and the quiet hum of the machine adds to its meditative appeal. For those who prefer to train independently and see tangible progress through data, the Ergatta offers a rewarding self-directed experience in connected fitness.
Hydrow Arc v. Ergatta Rower: Price & Membership
Hydrow’s $44 monthly membership gives users access to all on-demand and live classes across rowing, yoga, strength and mobility training. The content library continues to expand and the platform supports multiple profiles per household. Ergatta’s $39 monthly fee offers access to its growing catalog of adaptive workouts, races and training plans. Both rowers can function in limited modes without a membership: Hydrow with its Just Row feature and Ergatta through basic workouts but the full experience is tied to the software. Hydrow’s subscription feels justified for those who value scenic production and guided coaching while Ergatta’s lower cost reflects its more minimal data-driven design.
Hydrow Arc v. Ergatta Rower: Verdict
The choice between Hydrow and Ergatta ultimately comes down to motivation style: Hydrow is for those who want to be guided through an experience while Ergatta is for those who want to drive their own progress.
For users who find energy in the rhythm of the row itself and in seeing the numbers improve over time, Ergatta’s precision and simplicity may hold the edge. But for those drawn to cinematic coaching, breathtaking backdrops and instructor-led intensity, Hydrow offers one of the most elevated connected fitness experiences available today.