When buying a Concept2 rowing machine, most people get a little confused when it comes to choosing between the company’s two main products. So when you’re comparing Concept2 Model D and Model E, here’s what to look out for.

To be honest, when comparing Concept2 Model D and Model E, most of the differences are cosmetic, but there are three issues you need to consider.
Firstly, Model E is taller than Model D. The seat height on the Model E is 20 inches above the ground, whereas the Model D is 14 inches above the ground. That six inches is very significant if you’re coming to indoor rowing after a long period of physical inactivity and don’t want to have to lower yourself down onto the machine. The 20 inch height of the Model E seat is basically the same height as an average dining chair – so you can see how much easier it would be to start rowing on this model. But, those suffering from vertigo need not worry, Model E has a similar sturdy structure as Model D and is very stable.
Secondly, when comparing Concept2 Model D and Model E, the performance monitors are different. Model D had a PM3 and Model E has a PM4, although it should be noted that Model D can be bought with a PM4 at an additional cost.

The performance monitor is the piece of electrical wizardry which makes indoor rowing not only so much fun, but also a valuable training aid. The performance monitor is effectively the rower’s training partner. There is a comparison article specifically on the two different performance monitors, but suffice to say PM3 provides information such as distance travelled, speed and pace of the ‘boat’, and, calories and watts burnt whilst rowing, as well as a whole load more stats and difference screen formats . PM4 does all that, plus provides more games and offers direct machine-to-machine wireless racing between up to eight machines.

Thirdly, the monitor arms are different. On the Model D, the monitor arm is made from injection moulded plastic and easily pivots for height adjustment and when the machine is being stored. The angle of the monitor can also be adjusted for easy viewing. Whereas Model E’s monitor is made from aluminium extrusion which provides a rigid, fixed position which brings the monitor closer to the rower for easy access to the buttons and features. And, the monitor viewing angle can also be adjusted.

Okay, back to comparing Concept2 Model D and Model E. We’ve discovered that the main differences are the height of the rowing seat and the performance monitors. Let’s take a look at the some of the other differences.

The chain on the Model D is high quality steel, whereas on the Model E it is nickel-plated steel. This is not for adding ‘bling’ to one’s machine, but nickel-plated steel gives improved corrosion resistance and means less maintenance. Also on the Model E, the chain housing is fully enclosed, as compared to partially enclosed on Model D.

Back to bling, and the Model D is finished in a powder coat (basically a matt finish) and Model E is double powder coated with a clear over coat for extra durability (a gloss finish). Colour scheme of the Model D is dark blue and light blue; the Model E features dark blue, gray and light gray.
In structural terms, when comparing Concept2 Model D and Model E, they are very similar, although Model E has welded steel front and rear legs which provide a sturdy platform for the higher seat position and frame. Model D has aluminium front legs to save weight and steel legs at the rear. Model D weighs in at 57 pounds, whereas Model E is a little heavier at 65 pounds. But both machines have the same user weight limit of 500lbs.
As to what space you need when rowing, both machines require 8’ x 2’ when assembled and 9’ x 4’ when being used. When storing the machine, the Model D takes up 25” x 33” x 54.5”; and, the Model E requires 27” x 47” x 54.5”.

So, in the final analysis, when it comes to comparing Concept2 Model D and Model E, there’s not a lot of difference. It all comes down to whether you want a lofty position, or not.