Ergatta vs WaterRower (2024): Which Gives You The Best Rowing Experience?

If you’re on the search for the best rowing machine for your home gym, look no further. In this comparison, we’re going to take a deep dive into two machines that will give you a sense of pride just looking at them. 

This Ergatta vs WaterRower comparison will compare and contrast two brands that are constructed from high-quality wood, made in the United States, and are altogether pleasing to the eye. 

Ergatta Rower

Ergatta Rower

GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

• Water resistance rower
• Aesthetically pleasing
• Crafted from cherry wood
• Unique programming
• Can be stored vertically

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Smooth rowing experience
• Lots of useful data
• Aesthetic style
• Gamified programming

Cons

• Water has to be replaced every so often
• Resistance cannot be changed
• Although the gamification is fantastic, I know many people would love the option of trainer-led workouts.

Bottom Line

This machine is aesthetically-pleasing (which is an often overlooked attribute for equipment that lives in peoples homes) and the programming is interesting and engaging. If you’re looking for a water-powered rowing machine and want programming that’s different from what’s typically offered, you'll be a fan of the Ergatta.

WaterRower

WaterRower

GGR Score: 3.8

Community Score: 4.2

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Product Highlights

• Water resistance simulates outdoor experience
• Handcrafted wood for beautiful aesthetic
• One of the quietest water rowing machines

Made in USA

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Water resistance simulates outdoor experience
• The body is made of handcrafted wood
• One of the quietest water rowing machines
• Very aesthetically pleasing
• 700-pound weight capacity
• Optional expert assembly

Cons

• Prices start around $1,100
• Wood can dent and chip
• Weighs 117 lbs
• Monitor location isn’t convenient

Bottom Line

The WaterRower Natural is an excellent rower that uses (drumroll) water instead of air as its main mode of resistance. This closely simulates the resistance you would receive in real-life rowing, and it sounds pretty amazing, too.

Ergatta vs WaterRower Comparison Chart

Quick Look: Ergatta vs WaterRower

You may have noticed that the Ergatta and WaterRower look remarkably similar—and you’re not wrong. Both row ergs are built by WaterRower, the Rhode Island-based manufacturer. 

While there are differences between the WaterRower and the Ergatta, the main difference is the technology (and the price). We’ll get into that soon, though.

For now, I think it’s worth mentioning that for the purposes of this comparison we’re going to look at the Original WaterRower made from oak wood. I say this because the brand offers different wood types, hybrid options (like the CityRow GO Max), and other cardio equipment.

The Ergatta on the other hand only offers one machine made from one material, which is the signature Appalachian cherrywood. If you are curious about our hands-on experience with this smart rower, be sure to check out our Ergatta Rower review for all the details. 

Overall, both pieces of fitness equipment are going to deliver similar workout experiences with a water flywheel, unlimited levels of resistance, and a beautiful and sturdy solid wood frame.  

RELATED: Water Rower vs Magnetic Rower

Technology Comparison

Both of these are among the best water rowing machines on the market, largely due to their interactive programming. The Ergatta rowing machine is the tech-heavy option of the two rowers. That said, you will have to pay monthly membership fees to receive all the benefits of the high-tech touchscreen and programming. 

The monthly subscription fee is $29, which is less than competitors like Hydrow and Peloton. However, if you’re used to instructor-led workouts and fitness classes, be warned that Ergatta is different. 

REATED: Best Rowing Apps

The rowing workouts on the Ergatta are more like a video game. You’ll be able compete in race workouts, push programs, interval workouts, and even technique-based games. 

If you’re new to rowing and feeling a little intimidated by the gamified-tech, I want to point out that the Ergatta website has a section dedicated to beginners with form tutorials and access to rowing workouts for beginners. In addition to those resources, the programs evolve as you do, which means that more challenges are added to the games you play as your performance improves.

For full functionality of this gamified programming, you’ll want to budget for the Ergatta membership. Without the subscription, you’ll only have the ability to hop on for open row workouts or connect to third-party apps (like Strava) with WiFi, but that’s about it. 

As for the WaterRower, things are a little more simple. The S4 Performance Monitor on the WaterRower can track stroke rate, speed, time, and distance. Basically, all the essentials for an endurance session or a HIIT rowing workout. 

Although the WaterRower comes standard with S4 Performance Monitor, you do have the option to purchase an Ergatta Upgrade Package on the Ergatta website to get the touchscreen and mounting arm that matches your wood finish. This upgrade can essentially make a WaterRower function just like an Ergatta. 

Company Policies

Let’s take a look at how the company policies differ on the Ergatta vs WaterRower: 

Warranty Policy

WaterRower offers a one-year warranty for any defects on the frame, material, or workmanship. However, if you take a moment to register your rowing machine on the WaterRower website (during the first year of ownership) you can automatically upgrade your warranty that will cover five years on the structural frame and three years on components (not including electronics).

Ergatta has a similar warranty policy that covers five years on the structural frame, three years on component parts, and one year on the touchscreen.

Return Policy

WaterRower offers returns, but you will need to call customer service to receive return authorization of your return. You will be responsible for shipping fees and you will need to include your personal information and all relevant purchase information on or within the box to process your return.

Ergatta has a 30-day window to make returns. The website states that returns have to be made in the original packaging in order to be eligible for a refund. Also, depending on the condition of you machine when you make the return, you could be charged an additional restocking fee.

However, if you decide to make a return you will need to contact Ergatta via email to start the return process because the company picks up returns directly from your home at no charge. 

Financing Options

WaterRower offers financing through Bread Pay, a third-party lender. You will have to apply for this option, but you can get rates as low as 0% APR with regular rates up to 29.99% APR. 

WaterRower also offers rental options in the brand’s popular wood models: Natural, Club, Oxbridge, and Classic. This means you can rent a machine (for a minimum of three months) and not be tied down to a long-term investment. It’s worth noting that paying for a monthly rental fee does not go to the purchase of a WaterRower machine. The rental service requires a $200 deposit and a $10 return fee when you decide to stop renting.

Ergatta offers financing at checkout through Klarna. You will have the option to apply right at checkout for soft credit check. Depending on your credit history, you can receive financing for as low as 0% APR for 36 months. 

RELATED: The Best Budget Rowing Machines

Final Thoughts: Ergatta vs WaterRower

The Ergatta and the WaterRower are both made and manufactured by WaterRower and are super similar. Other than the footprint of the Ergatta being slightly larger than the WaterRower, the Ergatta is essentially the same machine with a touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity. The WaterRower also has a higher weight capacity (coming in at a whopping 700 pounds). 

If the connectivity and programming is important to you and will help you stay more regimented on a fitness routine, then don’t discount the value in that type of built-in motivation.

However, if you’re someone who just wants to hop on and row, I’d suggest going with the WaterRower and skipping the fancy touchscreen. It’s also worth noting that the WaterRower can be upgraded with a touchscreen and mounting arm from the Ergatta website at a later date for under $600. 

Ergatta vs WaterRower FAQs

Lauren Strong, CPT

Lauren is an NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer working with clients of all ages and skill levels. She specializes in coaching the squat, bench, and deadlift and enjoys introducing beginners to barbell training. Before becoming certified, she worked in marketing roles after graduating from the University of Maine with a BA in Journalism. Writing for Garage Gym Reviews blends her two passions: writing and lifting. Lauren spends her leisure time in the kitchen, reading fiction, and taking nature walks. She's also an avid downhill skier, learning how to ski when she was just two years old. She lives in Maine with her husband and two cats.

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