Rowing Machine NerdFirst Degree Monaco vs WaterRower: Which Water Rower?
Here's a genuine water-rower head-to-head at a similar price: the First Degree Monaco Challenge AR (around $1,299) versus the WaterRower Natural (around $1,200). Both are quiet, good-looking water rowers, but they make different choices - the Monaco offers adjustable resistance and a richer data console, while the WaterRower offers iconic looks, brand pedigree, and strong resale.
If you want water feel and you're deciding between these two, the trade-offs are real and worth understanding.
Verdict: The pick for most on looks and resale - choose the Monaco for adjustable resistance and better metrics.
First Degree Monaco Challenge AR vs WaterRower Natural: at a glance
| First Degree Monaco Challenge AR | WaterRower Natural | |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 3.7/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Price | ~$1,299 | ~$1,200 |
| Resistance | Water (fluid), adjustable via dial; twin-tank impeller design | Water (variable; self-regulating tank) |
| Monitor / screen | Multi-panel LCD: time, distance, 500m split, strokes/min, watts, calories/hr | S4 (pace, distance, watts, calories, HR) |
| Connectivity | USB port for performance recording and online racing; no native Bluetooth | S4; optional Bluetooth (Connect module) |
| Max user weight | 4.5 gal (17 L) | 375 lb (170 kg) |
| Footprint / size | Approx. 81.5"L x 20.5"W x 23"H | ~84" × 22" × 21" (213 × 56 × 53 cm) |
| Storage | Stands vertically; can be stored without draining | Stands upright on end; front wheels |
| Warranty | 5 yr frame / 3 yr tank & seals / 2 yr mechanical / 1 yr wear parts | 5-yr frame / 3-yr parts (home use) |
Full First Degree Monaco Challenge AR review Full WaterRower Natural review
Resistance and data
The Monaco's standout feature is adjustable water resistance via a dial, so you can change the feel without adding or removing tank water - something the WaterRower can't do (its resistance varies only with how hard you pull). The Monaco's multi-panel console also shows the metrics trainers care about, including a 500m split and watts, more clearly than the WaterRower's basic S4.
If you want some control over the stroke and a more informative readout, the Monaco is the stronger tool. The WaterRower's S4 is functional but basic, and neither matches a Concept2 PM5 for data depth or accuracy.
Build, looks and feel
Both are commercial-minded and quiet, with a smooth on-water catch. The Monaco uses a dual-rail aluminium frame rated to 330 lb and stands vertically (and can be tipped up without draining). The WaterRower Natural is the icon - handcrafted hardwood that genuinely belongs in a living room, with a 375 lb capacity, made in the USA.
On feel they're close; both deliver the immersive water stroke. The difference is character: the Monaco is the more technical, gym-grade machine, while the WaterRower is the warmer, more beautiful piece of furniture.
Price, resale and value
Pricing is similar, but the WaterRower has two value advantages: a stronger, more recognisable brand and better resale demand, plus that living-room aesthetic many buyers pay for. The Monaco counters with its adjustable resistance, richer metrics, and commercial-grade dual-rail frame for the money.
Worth noting on both: at this price you're paying as much as a Concept2, which outperforms either on data and resale. So choose a water rower here because you specifically want the water feel and looks - and then pick the Monaco for control and data, or the WaterRower for aesthetics and resale.
Choose the First Degree Monaco Challenge AR if…
- You want adjustable water resistance via a dial
- You want a clearer 500m split and watts on the console
- You prefer a technical, commercial-grade gym-style frame
- Data and control matter more than living-room looks
Choose the WaterRower Natural if…
- You want the iconic handcrafted hardwood look
- Brand pedigree and stronger resale value matter to you
- You want a slightly higher (375 lb) capacity
- Aesthetics and a living-room presence are the priority
Our verdict
For most buyers, the WaterRower Natural is the pick - it's the more beautiful machine, with stronger brand pedigree and resale value, and it delivers the classic water-rowing experience people fall in love with. If looks and long-term value drive your decision, choose it.
The First Degree Monaco is the better choice for a more training-minded buyer: its adjustable resistance and clearer metrics (500m split, watts) make it the more capable tool, on a commercial-grade frame. If you want some control over the stroke and better data, and you care less about the iconic look, the Monaco earns it. Either way, both cost about as much as a Concept2 - so buy a water rower here because you want the water feel specifically.
References
- Understanding Splits - Concept2
Frequently asked questions
- Is the First Degree Monaco or WaterRower Natural better?
- The WaterRower Natural wins on looks, brand pedigree, and resale value. The First Degree Monaco wins on adjustable water resistance and richer console data (500m split, watts). Choose the WaterRower for aesthetics and value, the Monaco for control and metrics.
- Can you adjust resistance on the First Degree Monaco?
- Yes - the Monaco has a dial that adjusts water resistance without changing the tank's water volume, so you can tune the feel. The WaterRower Natural can't do this; its resistance varies only with how hard you pull.
- Are these water rowers worth it over a Concept2?
- Only if you specifically want the water feel and looks. Both cost about as much as a Concept2, which outperforms them on data accuracy and resale value. Buy a water rower like these for the immersive stroke and aesthetics, not for training data.
Jordan Lockwood (BSc, CPT)
Certified personal trainer (CPT), sports-science graduate, and lifelong rower. Jordan writes and reviews every guide on Rowing Machine Nerd.