OHIY Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle 1098 for PM5 PM4 and vs MERACH Upgraded Squat Machine for Women, Smart Row
Updated August 2026 — OHIY Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle 1098 for PM5 PM4 and wins on price, MERACH Upgraded Squat Machine for Women, Smart Row wins on design and customer reviews.
The MERACH Upgraded Squat Machine offers a comprehensive workout solution, while the Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle is a simple accessory for rowing machines. For overall functionality and versatility, the squat machine is the better choice.
Why OHIY Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle 1098 for PM5 PM4 and is better
Price
Concept 2 is significantly cheaper at $15.95.
Simplicity
Concept 2 is easy to use without complex features.
Compatibility
Concept 2 fits a wide range of smartphones.
Why MERACH Upgraded Squat Machine for Women, Smart Row is better
Functionality
MERACH offers a full-body workout experience.
Technology
MERACH includes an LCD monitor and app connectivity.
Durability
MERACH is built with high-quality materials for long-lasting use.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | OHIY Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle 1098 for PM5 PM4 and | MERACH Upgraded Squat Machine for Women, Smart Row |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Accessory | Exercise Machine |
| Target Users | Rowers | Women |
| Monitor | None | LCD |
| Foldable | No | Yes |
| App Sync | No | Yes |
Dimension comparison
Overview of Products
The Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle 1098 is priced at $15.95, while the MERACH Upgraded Squat Machine for Women is significantly higher at $69.99. The price difference of about 339% indicates that these products serve very different purposes in the fitness realm. The smartphone cradle is designed to enhance the experience of using rowing machines, while the squat machine offers a full-body workout experience focused on lower body strength.
Intended Use and Functionality
The Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle is designed specifically for use with PM5, PM4, and PM3 rowing monitors, allowing users to securely place their smartphones while exercising. This cradle enhances the experience by enabling users to keep track of their performance data easily. In contrast, the MERACH Upgraded Squat Machine is a versatile piece of home exercise equipment targeted at women. It focuses on developing strength through various squat depths and supports an extensive range of body types, with a weight capacity of up to 350 pounds.
Design and Build Quality
The smartphone cradle’s design is straightforward, easily sliding onto the top of rower monitors. It accommodates phones between 2.25 inches and 3.5 inches wide, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. On the other hand, the MERACH squat machine features a durable build with high-quality materials, designed to withstand regular use. Its foldable design allows for easy storage, making it a practical option for home workouts where space is a concern.
User Experience and Comfort
With the Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle, the user experience is centered around convenience. It allows users to keep their devices close, ensuring that they can monitor their progress without interruptions. However, the MERACH squat machine offers a more comprehensive workout experience with its ergonomic design. The machine features a comfortably contoured seat and a U-shaped handle, promoting smooth movement and reducing stress on joints during exercises. This careful attention to comfort enhances the user experience significantly when performing various workouts.
Technology and Features
The smartphone cradle is a simple accessory focused on enhancing the functionality of rowing machines, without any high-tech features. Conversely, the MERACH squat machine stands out with its connected fitness experience. It includes an LCD monitor that records exercise statistics and syncs with the MERACH app, providing users with a more integrated workout experience. This technological aspect can be particularly appealing for those looking to track their fitness progress effectively.
Pricing and Value for Money
At $15.95, the Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle is a low-cost accessory that adds significant value for rowing machine users. Its affordability makes it accessible to a wide audience, especially for those who already own a rowing machine. In contrast, the MERACH squat machine, priced at $69.99, might be seen as an investment for those committed to home workouts. Despite its higher price, it offers a comprehensive workout solution that targets multiple muscle groups, suggesting a good return on investment for regular users.
Popularity and Sales Rank
The Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle holds a sales rank of 156029, which is relatively low compared to the MERACH squat machine, which ranks at 15430. This suggests that the squat machine is more popular among consumers, possibly due to its multifunctional capabilities and appeal to a broader demographic interested in home fitness solutions. The higher sales rank reflects a greater acceptance and demand in the market for the squat machine compared to the more niche smartphone cradle.
Which should you buy?
Deciding between the Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle and the MERACH Upgraded Squat Machine depends heavily on your fitness goals and equipment needs. If you own a rowing machine and are looking for a simple way to enhance your workout experience, the Concept 2 Smartphone Cradle is an excellent choice at just $15.95. However, if you're interested in a more comprehensive workout solution that offers versatility and the ability to track fitness metrics, the MERACH squat machine, despite its higher price of $69.99, presents a compelling option. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you prioritize functionality for rowing or a full-body workout experience.

