Categories: How to choose the equipment

Comparison of Concept2 and Xebex rowing machines | Buyer’s Guide

Many customers ask us to compare Xebex rowing machines with Concept2 rowing machines.

The questions they ask us are always many : Are they equal? , Which is better? , Which should I buy?

Concept2 has two rowing models: Concept2 Model D and Concept2 Model E. Get RX’d (Xebex) has three models: Xebex 2.0, Xebex Smart Connect and Xebex 3.0.

Model D and Model E have some small differences such as price, seat height and monitor arm.

Xebex rowing machines also have some small differences such as monitor functionality and seat design.

Today we will compare some similarities and differences between Xebex rowing machines and Concept2 rowing machines.

Since there are so many similarities, I will focus more on the differences that should be used when deciding which rowing machine to buy.

Let’s start immediately then :

Type of resistance

Volano vogatore Concept2
Volano vogatore Xebex

When comparing the resistance mode of Xebex rowing machines and Concept2 rowing machines, it is easy to understand that they are both air resistance rowing machines.

It’s so easy to see why they both use exactly the same flywheel.

Both rowing machines use a “variable” resistance that becomes stronger the faster you row. Air resistance “variable” is the type of resistance chosen by Olympic rowers and professional athletes.

Both Xebex and Concept2 rowing machines include a reset damping system. The settings (1-10) control the amount of air that can enter the flywheel during the row.

This creates a heavier or lighter sensation of movement but does not technically change the resistance.

Monitoring panel/ control panel

Monitor vogatore Xebex
Monitor vogatore Concept2

The monitoring feature is one of the main topics of discussion in the comparison between Xebex rowing machines and those of Concept2

There are so many features on the Concept2 and Xebex monitors that it would really take pages and pages to explain them all. However, we will try to explain some of the main features.

Monitor Concept2 vs. Monitor Xebex

When Get RX launched for the first time the Xebex rower the latter was equipped with a monitor with several shortcomings against the Concept2 in practice the monitor does not measure curve of force, watt, could not connect to PC / App, no peace boat function and more.

Then the diatribe with Crossfit forced Xebex to update its monitor, add some new features so as to ensure that the metrics were recorded correctly.

Xebex rowers now have most of the features of the Concept2 PM5 Monitor. The following is a quick breakdown of their differences:

Xebex 2.0 : is the basic monitor with all the functions also present on PM5, such as force curve, watts, games, etc. The disadvantages of this monitor are that it is not backlit and cannot connect to third-party apps (without bluetooth).

Smart Connect : has all the features of Xebex 2.0 but can also connect to third-party apps (has bluetooth).

Xebex 3.0 : has all the functions of 2.0 but is backlit. However, it does not support third-party apps and does not have Bluetooth.

PM5 Concept2 keeps track of all metrics, supports third-party apps and is backlit.

Resistance factor

Concept 2

Another important argument in the comparison between the Xebex and Concept2 rowers is the Drag Factor, or as we use to say in Italian resistance factor.

The Drag Factor is the calculation of the speed of decelleration of the flywheel at each stroke. The resistance factor then determines the speed of the flywheel and the real amount of “work” that you are performing at each stroke.

This means that real work, distance and speed are calculated independently of the setting.

The resistance factor on a Concept2 can be displayed before a rowing session and adjusted. A higher setting results in a higher resistance factor.

For example, if you love rowing with a resistance factor of 120, you can find the exact resistance factor on any Concept2 rowing machine. This is really very useful because a damping setting of 10 is not the same on all different types of rowing machines due to factors such as dust accumulation and humidity.

The resistance factor is also the reason why Concept2 rowers were chosen for events such as Crossfit Games. Precisely because they offer the opportunity to compare times on different rowing machines from all over the world. There are no variables that will change the time of an athlete just because the resistance factor is recalculated at each stroke!

Xebex

Xebex rowing machines do not have a “viewable” dragging factor setting but still use it to distinguish between different flywheel settings.

This means that two Xebex rowing machines both set to a damping setting of 10 can work differently due to variables such as dust accumulation.

On the contrary, on Concept2 it is possible to visualize the resistance factor and adjust for example 2 rowing machines on a resistance factor of 130 and know that the results will be equal.

Many people love to share online times and “compete” against their friends, which is why Concept 2 with PM5 monitors is so popular.

But see you just like to train then we suggest you to choose a vogator Xebex that still does its job very well.

Quality of construction

When comparing the rowing machines of Xebex and Concept2 we come to the simple conclusion that they are both extremely resistant.

Both rowing machines are made of steel, high quality aluminum and plastic.

The rowing machine of the Xebex is a bit heavier because it has a larger steel base, which keeps it robust and well-rooted.

Both rowing machines are extremely durable and we think that no one will have problems with their build quality.

Comfort

Both rowers have a regular, strong and comfortable rowing run without any delay. This means that the tension is well present from the beginning to the end of the gesture.

Both have large rollers with ball bearings and metal chains.

Single rail seats, handles and heights are slightly different.

Sittings

Sedile vogatore Concept2
Sedile vogatore Xebex

The Xebex rowing machine has a less angular and more consumer-oriented classic style with a thicker padding. Many users like this softer type of seat.

The Concept2 rowing machine has a more ergonomic design and resembles a real rowing seat. It’s a little stiffer and has a carving in the back to relieve the pressure on the sacrum.

Handle

Maniglie vogatore Concept2
Maniglie vogatore Xebex

The handle of the rowing machine Xebex has a bit more padding than the Concept2.

The handle of the Concept2 is made of semi-soft rubber but is still harder to the touch than the Xebex handle.

Adjustment of footpegs

Pedane vogatore Xebex
Pedane vogatore Concept2

The rowing machine Xebex has a “one-touch” design for the adjustment of the footpegs that facilitates the transition from one user to another.

The rowing machine Concept2 uses a slightly different mechanism in which it is necessary to slide and align the footrests in the appropriate holes.

Both are extremely fast and easy to use. Both footrests have similar levels of comfort and can fit any size of foot.

Seat height

A great advantage of the Xebex rowing machine is the seat height. It is not necessary to bend down to get on and off the rowing machine. A higher sitting becomes a big plus for older people who may have knee or joint problems.

The Concept2 Model D has a lower seat height, perfect for trained riders.

Ease of storage

Stoccaggio vogatore Concept2
Stoccaggio vogatore Xebex

The Xebex rowing machine bends in half by pulling out a locking pin and folding the seat guide. Once folded, the Xebex rowing machine can be rolled on its 4 integrated swivel wheels.

Moving the rowing machine Xebex is so easy that you can push it with one hand. This makes it ideal for people who need to constantly move the rowing machine to save space.

The rowing machine Concept2 can be easily stored by separating the seat rail from the flywheel and the fan.

The rowing machine is quite light, so the movement is easy.

The second way a Concept2 can be stored is in an upright position. In fact, thanks to its base can be positioned vertically saving a lot of space.

Mounting

When comparing the assembly of a Xebex rowing machine with a Concept2, it is clear that the Concept2 is easier to assemble.

The Concept2 is almost completely pre-assembled and can be put into operation in less than 10 minutes.

It is not necessary to connect the monitor, the footrest or the seat on the Concept2 unlike the Xebex.

The assembly of the Xebex rowing machine is quite simple, but the completion will take about 40 minutes.

Both rowing machines are equipped with all the necessary tools for assembly.

Consumer reviews

There are dozens of reviews available that compare the Xebex rowing machines with those of the Concept2 and there are very few complaints about both models.

Guarantee

Warranty Concept2 :

Frame : 5 years
Remaining parts : 2 years

Xebex Guarantee :

Frame : 5 years
Remaining parts: 2 years

Both companies are very efficient and serious and have always respected their contractual ties with customers.

Conclusions

When you compare a Xebex rowing machine with a Concept2, it all comes down to personal preferences.

Each person chooses according to the characteristics they need, for example, if you are going to join a crew team, the choice will surely fall on Concept2.

The Xebex rowing machine is perfect for those who simply want a good quality rowing machine to exercise in the comfort of their own home.