tldr; A more affordable Hydrow with electromagnetic resistance and 16-inch screen. Features 'assisted pull' that helps recovery. Quieter than C2 but expensive with mandatory subscription.
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Best praise vs top criticism for Hydrow Wave
“Fiancee and I were both collegiate rowers (different schools, her D1 and me club). When we bought an erg for our basement gym last year she specifically did not want a C2 bc she did not want it to remind her of the more grueling aspects of D1 rowing. We tested as many as possible in store -- most of them sucked. They just felt off, like the resistance wasn't being correctly. We ended up going with the Hydrow Wave. It felt the best, the videos are great, and as a bonus she recognizes several of the "instructors" from collegiate rowing. Now is it directly comparable to a C2? No. I consistently pull similar numbers to what I was pulling in college on a C2 even though I'm definitely in worse shape. But it's good in it's own way and for the consumer market that's plenty.”
3 Reddit opinions analyzed • Last updated 2/24/2026