---
title: The 14 Best Rowing Machines for Home Gyms (2026)
description: We compare 14 air, magnetic and water rowers for home gyms by resistance, footprint, storage and subscription so you can pick the right one.
---

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# The 14 Best Rowing Machines for a Home Gym (2026)

By Marcus Bell·Updated September 2026·Evaluated on documented specs + owner consensus

**Disclosure:** Spare Room Gym is reader-supported. If you buy through links on this page we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It never affects our rankings, and we don't list live prices — always check the current price at the retailer.

## The short answer

For most home gyms the Concept2 RowErg is the strongest all-rounder thanks to its durability, open ecosystem and 500 lb capacity. Magnetic rowers like the Merach Q1S and Sunny SF-RW5515 win on quiet, no-subscription value, while Hydrow, NordicTrack, Ergatta and WaterRower suit connected and water-rower buyers.

## How we chose

These picks are research-led, not hands-on tested. We synthesised documented manufacturer specifications, independent 2025-2026 editorial reviews (Garage Gym Reviews, Good Housekeeping, Consumer Reports, Men's Health and others) and the consensus of verified owner reviews on major retailers. We focused on resistance type, footprint in use and storage, maximum user weight, console and app features, and any required subscription. Specifications that varied or were unclear across sources are flagged 'confirm at retailer'; prices and membership fees change often and are not stated here.

## Quick comparison

| # | Model | Best for | Price | Basis |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | [Concept2 RowErg](https://spareroomgym.com/best-rowing-machines#item-1) | overall | Mid | Spec + owner consensus |
| 2 | [Rogue Echo Rower](https://spareroomgym.com/best-rowing-machines#item-2) | air alternative for garage gyms | Mid | Spec + owner consensus |
| 3 | [Hydrow Pro](https://spareroomgym.com/best-rowing-machines#item-3) | connected rower | Premium | Spec + owner consensus |
| 4 | [Hydrow Wave](https://spareroomgym.com/best-rowing-machines#item-4) | small-space connected | Premium | Spec + owner consensus |
| 5 | [NordicTrack RW900](https://spareroomgym.com/best-rowing-machines#item-5) | for iFIT content | Premium | Spec + owner consensus |
| 6 | [Peloton Row+](https://spareroomgym.com/best-rowing-machines#item-6) | for Peloton members | Premium | Spec + owner consensus |
| 7 | [Ergatta Rower](https://spareroomgym.com/best-rowing-machines#item-7) | water rower | Premium | Spec + owner consensus |
| 8 | [WaterRower Vintage](https://spareroomgym.com/best-rowing-machines#item-8) | water rower without a subscription | Premium | Spec + owner consensus |
| 9 | [Merach Q1S Magnetic Rower](https://spareroomgym.com/best-rowing-machines#item-9) | value | Mid | Spec + owner consensus |
| 10 | [Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rower](https://spareroomgym.com/best-rowing-machines#item-10) | budget | Budget | Spec + owner consensus |

Price = qualitative band (we don't publish live prices). "Basis" = how we evaluated each pick.

## The 14 best rowing machines (2026)

1

### Concept2 RowErg

Best for: overall Mid

An air rower with a chain-driven fan flywheel and a 10-setting damper, widely treated as the performance and durability benchmark. It separates into two pieces without tools for storage but is long in use (around 96 in) and audible, so it suits garages and dedicated rooms more than thin-walled apartments. No required subscription; the PM5 monitor pairs with the free ErgData app and third-party platforms.

| Resistance | Air |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Approx. 96 in long x 24 in wide (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Separates into two pieces; stands on end |
| Max user weight | 500 lb |
| Monitor/app | PM5 console; ErgData app; no subscription |

Pros

- Proven, near-bulletproof durability
- High 500 lb capacity for heavy or tall users
- Open ecosystem, no required subscription

Cons

- Fan noise increases with effort
- No large built-in touchscreen

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Concept2+RowErg) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

2

### Rogue Echo Rower

Best for: air alternative for garage gyms Mid

An air rower built around a fan flywheel for the dynamic, effort-scaled feel performance rowers want, and a common choice in CrossFit-style garage setups. Like other air rowers it is louder than magnetic machines, so it is best suited to garages and basements. Exact dimensions, capacity and console details vary, so confirm at retailer.

| Resistance | Air |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Long-rail rower (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Confirm at retailer |
| Max user weight | Confirm at retailer |
| Monitor/app | Performance monitor; no subscription required (confirm at retailer) |

Pros

- Dynamic, effort-scaled air resistance
- Built for hard interval training
- No required subscription

Cons

- Louder than magnetic rowers
- Specs and availability vary, confirm at retailer

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Rogue+Echo+Rower) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

3

### Hydrow Pro

Best for: connected rower Premium

A premium magnetic rower built around a large touchscreen and instructor-led, on-water video workouts. Resistance is quiet, which helps in shared spaces, but the experience depends on a paid Hydrow membership (recurring monthly cost), so factor that into the total. Best for buyers who want immersive, coached content over open data.

| Resistance | Magnetic (electronically controlled) |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Long-rail rower (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Upright storage option (confirm at retailer) |
| Max user weight | Confirm at retailer |
| Monitor/app | Large touchscreen; Hydrow membership required (recurring fee) |

Pros

- Quiet magnetic resistance
- Large screen with strong instructor-led content
- Polished connected experience

Cons

- Requires ongoing paid Hydrow membership
- High upfront cost

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Hydrow+Pro+rower) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

4

### Hydrow Wave

Best for: small-space connected Premium

A more compact, lighter version of Hydrow's connected rower with a shorter footprint (around 80 in) and an upright storage option, chosen by reviewers as a strong compact pick. Quiet magnetic resistance suits apartments, but it still relies on a paid Hydrow membership for its content (recurring monthly cost).

| Resistance | Magnetic (electronically controlled) |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Approx. 80 in long (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Upright storage option |
| Max user weight | Confirm at retailer |
| Monitor/app | Touchscreen; Hydrow membership required (recurring fee) |

Pros

- Compact 80 in footprint and lighter frame
- Quiet, apartment-friendly resistance
- Upright storage

Cons

- Requires ongoing paid Hydrow membership
- Smaller screen than the Pro

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Hydrow+Wave+rower) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

5

### NordicTrack RW900

Best for: for iFIT content Premium

A dual-resistance machine that pairs quiet, digitally controlled magnetic resistance with a large rotating touchscreen for iFIT studio and scenic workouts. Reviewers note it is much less compelling without the iFIT subscription (recurring monthly cost). Best for buyers who want a big screen and a deep guided-workout library.

**Recall notice (Oct 2025):** iFIT recalled the NordicTrack RW900 (model NTRW19147) because its console can overheat and pose a fire hazard. If you own or are considering this unit, check your model number against iFIT's recall notice before use. [See the CPSC notice](https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2026/iFIT-Recalls-NordicTrack-Rowing-Machines-Due-to-Fire-Hazard).

| Resistance | Magnetic (digitally controlled, dual-resistance) |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Long-rail rower (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Vertical storage brackets offered (confirm at retailer) |
| Max user weight | Confirm at retailer |
| Monitor/app | Large rotating touchscreen; iFIT subscription for full content (recurring fee) |

Pros

- Quiet magnetic resistance
- Large rotating touchscreen
- Huge iFIT workout catalogue

Cons

- Best features need a paid iFIT subscription
- High upfront cost

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=NordicTrack+RW900+rower) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

6

### Peloton Row+

Best for: for Peloton members Premium

A premium connected magnetic rower with a large screen and form-assist features, tied to the Peloton All-Access Membership (recurring monthly cost) that also covers cycling, running and strength classes. Best for households already in the Peloton ecosystem who want all their content in one place.

| Resistance | Magnetic (electronically controlled) |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Long-rail rower (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Vertical/wall storage offered (confirm at retailer) |
| Max user weight | Confirm at retailer |
| Monitor/app | Large touchscreen; Peloton All-Access Membership (recurring fee) |

Pros

- Quiet magnetic resistance
- Form-assist and large screen
- One membership across all Peloton gear

Cons

- Requires the paid All-Access Membership
- High upfront cost

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Peloton+Row+rower) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

7

### Ergatta Rower

Best for: water rower Premium

A wood-framed water rower built on WaterRower hardware, with a touchscreen running game-based challenges and races rather than instructor classes. It stores upright to a roughly 2 ft x 2 ft footprint and rates to a high user weight, but the games library needs an Ergatta membership (recurring cost). Best for buyers who want a furniture-like look and competitive, gamified training.

| Resistance | Water |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Approx. 8 ft x 2 ft in use (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Stands upright, approx. 2 ft x 2 ft |
| Max user weight | Up to approx. 500 lb (confirm at retailer) |
| Monitor/app | Touchscreen; Ergatta membership for games (recurring fee) |

Pros

- Smooth water feel with a furniture-like wood frame
- Upright storage, small stored footprint
- Engaging game-based training

Cons

- Game content needs a paid Ergatta membership
- High upfront cost and water-tank upkeep

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Ergatta+rower) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

8

### WaterRower Vintage

Best for: water rower without a subscription Premium

The original wood-framed water rower, prized for a soothing water sound and a living-room-friendly look. It stores upright against a wall to a small footprint and rates to a high user weight, and crucially needs no subscription. The S4 monitor is functional rather than flashy. Best for buyers who want the water feel and aesthetics without recurring fees.

| Resistance | Water |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Approx. 8 ft x 2 ft in use (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Stands upright against a wall |
| Max user weight | High capacity (500 lb+; confirm at retailer) |
| Monitor/app | S4 BLE monitor; no subscription required |

Pros

- Soothing water sound and premium wood frame
- Upright storage, small stored footprint
- No required subscription

Cons

- Basic monitor compared with touchscreen rivals
- High upfront cost and water-tank upkeep

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=WaterRower+Vintage) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

9

### Merach Q1S Magnetic Rower

Best for: value Mid

A quiet, self-powered magnetic rower praised by reviewers as a standout value pick, with a compact in-use length (around 165 cm), Bluetooth and free companion-app support, and no required subscription. It rates to a higher capacity than most budget magnetic rowers. Best for buyers who want quiet, app-connected rowing without recurring fees.

| Resistance | Magnetic (self-powered) |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Approx. 165 cm long (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Compact; confirm storage method at retailer |
| Max user weight | Approx. 158 kg / 350 lb (confirm at retailer) |
| Monitor/app | LCD plus Bluetooth; free Merach app; no required subscription |

Pros

- Very quiet magnetic resistance
- Free app, no required subscription
- Higher capacity than most budget rowers

Cons

- Basic console versus connected rivals
- Confirm exact dimensions at retailer

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Merach+Q1S+magnetic+rower) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

10

### Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rower

Best for: budget Budget

An entry-level magnetic rower with a foldable frame, smooth quiet resistance and a simple LCD, frequently recommended as a budget starter. Capacity is limited (around 220 lb) and the console is basic, but there is no subscription. Best for budget buyers and small spaces who can work within the lower weight limit.

| Resistance | Magnetic (manual levels) |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Compact rower (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Foldable frame |
| Max user weight | Approx. 220 lb (confirm at retailer) |
| Monitor/app | Basic LCD; no subscription |

Pros

- Very affordable entry point
- Quiet magnetic resistance
- Folds for storage; no subscription

Cons

- Lower ~220 lb weight limit
- Basic console and feature set

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Sunny+Health+SF-RW5515+rowing+machine) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

11

### Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801 Magnetic Rower

Best for: budget step-up Budget

A step-up Sunny magnetic rower with an LCD monitor and bottle holder, offering quiet resistance at an accessible price. As with other budget magnetic models, check the exact weight limit and console features at the retailer. Best for budget buyers who want a slightly more featured Sunny machine.

| Resistance | Magnetic (manual levels) |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Compact rower (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Confirm storage method at retailer |
| Max user weight | Confirm at retailer |
| Monitor/app | LCD monitor with bottle holder; no subscription |

Pros

- Affordable and quiet
- Simple to use, no subscription
- Established budget brand

Cons

- Limited capacity typical of budget magnetic rowers (confirm at retailer)
- Basic console

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Sunny+Health+SF-RW5801+rowing+machine) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

12

### Echelon Row-S

Best for: mid-range connected Mid

A connected magnetic rower with a rotating HD touchscreen and many resistance levels, tied to an Echelon Premier membership (recurring monthly cost) for classes. Quiet resistance suits indoor use. Best for buyers who want a touchscreen connected experience at a lower upfront price than the premium leaders.

| Resistance | Magnetic (electronically controlled) |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Long-rail rower (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Confirm storage method at retailer |
| Max user weight | Confirm at retailer |
| Monitor/app | Rotating HD touchscreen; Echelon Premier membership (recurring fee) |

Pros

- Rotating HD touchscreen
- Quiet magnetic resistance with many levels
- Lower entry price than premium connected rowers

Cons

- Classes need a paid Echelon membership
- Confirm capacity and dimensions at retailer

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Echelon+Row-S+rowing+machine) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

13

### Schwinn Crewmaster Rower

Best for: from a familiar cardio brand Mid

A magnetic rower from a familiar home-cardio brand, offering quiet resistance and a straightforward console without a required subscription. Specifications vary across listings, so confirm capacity, footprint and storage at the retailer. Best for buyers who prefer a known mainstream brand for simple, quiet rowing.

| Resistance | Magnetic |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Confirm at retailer |
| Stored | Confirm storage method at retailer |
| Max user weight | Confirm at retailer |
| Monitor/app | Console; no subscription required (confirm at retailer) |

Pros

- Quiet magnetic resistance
- Familiar mainstream brand
- No required subscription

Cons

- Specs vary across listings, confirm at retailer
- Fewer connected features than touchscreen rivals

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Schwinn+Crewmaster+rower) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

14

### Fitness Reality 1000 Plus Magnetic Rower

Best for: budget with app tracking Budget

A budget magnetic rower with Bluetooth workout tracking and a tablet holder, usable with general fitness apps rather than a paid subscription. Capacity is on the lower side typical of budget machines, so confirm the limit at the retailer. Best for budget buyers who want basic app tracking without recurring fees.

| Resistance | Magnetic (manual levels) |
| --- | --- |
| Footprint | Compact rower (confirm at retailer) |
| Stored | Confirm storage method at retailer |
| Max user weight | Confirm at retailer |
| Monitor/app | Bluetooth tracking and tablet holder; no required subscription |

Pros

- Affordable with Bluetooth tracking
- Tablet holder for your own apps
- No required subscription

Cons

- Lower capacity typical of budget rowers (confirm at retailer)
- Basic build versus premium rivals

[Check price on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Fitness+Reality+1000+Plus+rowing+machine) Basis: Spec + owner consensus

## How to choose

Resistance type (feel & noise)

Air rowers (Concept2, Rogue Echo) feel dynamic and respond to effort but are louder; magnetic rowers (Hydrow, NordicTrack, Echelon, Sunny, Merach, Schwinn) are the quietest and best for apartments; water rowers (WaterRower, Ergatta) give a soothing whoosh and a furniture-like look in between.

Footprint & storage

Most rowers are 80-96 in long in use. Check whether the machine folds, separates into two pieces, or stands upright (wood and some connected rowers store to roughly a 2 ft x 2 ft footprint). Measure your space before buying.

Subscription vs no-subscription

Hydrow, NordicTrack/iFIT, Peloton, Echelon and Ergatta charge a recurring membership for their content; Concept2, WaterRower, Sunny, Merach, Schwinn and Fitness Reality work fully without one. Run the cost over 12-36 months, not just the sticker price.

Budget

Set a total budget that includes any subscription. Budget magnetic rowers start low but cap around 220-250 lb; premium connected and water rowers cost more upfront and, for some, add ongoing fees. Match the weight limit to the heaviest user.

## FAQ

What is the best rowing machine for most home gyms?

For most home gyms the Concept2 RowErg is the strongest all-rounder, thanks to its proven durability, open ecosystem, high 500 lb capacity and no required subscription. Buyers who prioritise quiet operation or instructor-led content may prefer a magnetic connected rower instead.

Which rowing machines are quietest for apartments?

Magnetic rowers are generally the quietest and transmit the least floor vibration, so models like the Hydrow, NordicTrack RW900, Merach Q1S and Sunny SF-RW5515 suit apartments. Water rowers are usually next, with a soft water sound, while air rowers such as the Concept2 are the loudest at high effort.

Do rowing machines require a subscription?

Some do and some do not. Hydrow, NordicTrack (iFIT), Peloton, Echelon and Ergatta rely on a paid recurring membership for their full content. Concept2, WaterRower, Sunny, Merach, Schwinn and Fitness Reality can be used indefinitely with no subscription. Confirm current membership terms at the retailer before buying.

Air, magnetic or water resistance, which is best?

Air feels dynamic and scales with effort but is loud, making it popular for performance and garage gyms. Magnetic is the quietest and best for shared spaces. Water offers a soothing feel and a furniture-like look. The right choice depends on your noise tolerance, space and training goals.

What weight capacity do I need?

Check the maximum user weight against the heaviest person who will use the machine. The Concept2 RowErg rates to 500 lb and some water rowers list 500 lb or more, while many budget magnetic rowers cap around 220-250 lb. Where a figure is unclear, confirm it at the retailer before buying.

How much does a rowing machine cost?

Budget magnetic rowers are the cheapest entry point but cap around 220-250 lb capacity. Mid-priced air and value magnetic rowers like the Concept2 RowErg and Merach Q1S sit in the middle with no required subscription. Premium connected and water rowers (Hydrow, NordicTrack, Peloton, Ergatta, Echelon) cost the most upfront and several also add a recurring monthly membership, so factor that into the total over 12-36 months. We don't publish live prices since they change often; always check the current price at the retailer.

Is the NordicTrack RW900 rowing machine safe to use?

In October 2025, iFIT recalled the NordicTrack RW900 (model NTRW19147) because its console can overheat and pose a fire hazard. If you own or are considering this model, check your unit's model number against iFIT's official recall notice and CPSC.gov before use.

## Where to start

New to this? Start with our [Home Gym Equipment Guide](https://spareroomgym.com/best-home-gym-equipment). Already own one? See [how to use a rowing machine](https://spareroomgym.com/reviews/how-to-use-a-rowing-machine) for correct form, the most common beginner mistakes, and a sensible starter routine. Related guides: [NordicTrack vs Peloton](https://spareroomgym.com/nordictrack-vs-peloton) · [Compact home gym picks](https://spareroomgym.com/best-compact-home-gym) · [Budget home gym picks](https://spareroomgym.com/best-budget-home-gym) · [Best air bikes & fan bikes](https://spareroomgym.com/reviews/best-air-bikes-fan-bikes-home-gyms) · [Concept2 vs Hydrow](https://spareroomgym.com/reviews/concept2-vs-hydrow) · [Best ellipticals for home gyms](https://spareroomgym.com/reviews/best-ellipticals-home-gyms) · [how to build a home gym](https://spareroomgym.com/guides/how-to-build-a-home-gym).

General fitness information, not medical or training advice. This guide is evaluated on documented specifications and verified owner-review consensus. We're research-led — we don't test the products we cover. References: [Concept2 — RowErg specs](https://www.concept2.com/ergs/rowerg) · [Hydrow — memberships](https://hydrow.com/membership/) · [Ergatta — the rower](https://ergatta.com/pages/the-ergatta-rower) · [WaterRower — rowing machines (US)](https://www.waterrower.com/wr_us/waterrower/)

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      "text" : "For most home gyms the Concept2 RowErg is the strongest all-rounder, thanks to its proven durability, open ecosystem, high 500 lb capacity and no required subscription. Buyers who prioritise quiet operation or instructor-led content may prefer a magnetic connected rower instead."
    },
    "name" : "What is the best rowing machine for most home gyms?"
  }, {
    "@type" : "Question",
    "acceptedAnswer" : {
      "@type" : "Answer",
      "text" : "Magnetic rowers are generally the quietest and transmit the least floor vibration, so models like the Hydrow, NordicTrack RW900, Merach Q1S and Sunny SF-RW5515 suit apartments. Water rowers are usually next, with a soft water sound, while air rowers such as the Concept2 are the loudest at high effort."
    },
    "name" : "Which rowing machines are quietest for apartments?"
  }, {
    "@type" : "Question",
    "acceptedAnswer" : {
      "@type" : "Answer",
      "text" : "Some do and some do not. Hydrow, NordicTrack (iFIT), Peloton, Echelon and Ergatta rely on a paid recurring membership for their full content. Concept2, WaterRower, Sunny, Merach, Schwinn and Fitness Reality can be used indefinitely with no subscription. Confirm current membership terms at the retailer before buying."
    },
    "name" : "Do rowing machines require a subscription?"
  }, {
    "@type" : "Question",
    "acceptedAnswer" : {
      "@type" : "Answer",
      "text" : "Air feels dynamic and scales with effort but is loud, making it popular for performance and garage gyms. Magnetic is the quietest and best for shared spaces. Water offers a soothing feel and a furniture-like look. The right choice depends on your noise tolerance, space and training goals."
    },
    "name" : "Air, magnetic or water resistance, which is best?"
  }, {
    "@type" : "Question",
    "acceptedAnswer" : {
      "@type" : "Answer",
      "text" : "Check the maximum user weight against the heaviest person who will use the machine. The Concept2 RowErg rates to 500 lb and some water rowers list 500 lb or more, while many budget magnetic rowers cap around 220-250 lb. Where a figure is unclear, confirm it at the retailer before buying."
    },
    "name" : "What weight capacity do I need?"
  }, {
    "@type" : "Question",
    "acceptedAnswer" : {
      "@type" : "Answer",
      "text" : "Budget magnetic rowers are the cheapest entry point but cap around 220-250 lb capacity. Mid-priced air and value magnetic rowers like the Concept2 RowErg and Merach Q1S sit in the middle with no required subscription. Premium connected and water rowers (Hydrow, NordicTrack, Peloton, Ergatta, Echelon) cost the most upfront and several also add a recurring monthly membership, so factor that into the total over 12-36 months. We don't publish live prices since they change often; always check the current price at the retailer."
    },
    "name" : "How much does a rowing machine cost?"
  }, {
    "@type" : "Question",
    "acceptedAnswer" : {
      "@type" : "Answer",
      "text" : "In October 2025, iFIT recalled the NordicTrack RW900 (model NTRW19147) because its console can overheat and pose a fire hazard. If you own or are considering this model, check your unit's model number against iFIT's official recall notice and CPSC.gov before use."
    },
    "name" : "Is the NordicTrack RW900 rowing machine safe to use?"
  } ]
}
```

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