Introduction
When I started working out at home, the last thing I wanted was to wake up my family or annoy the neighbors. I quickly realized not all rowing machines are quiet — some sound like a jet engine taking off.
So I went on a mission to find a machine that felt great and kept the peace. If you live in a small apartment, work out early in the morning, or just prefer quieter exercise, this guide is for you.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the quietest rowing machines you can buy, why some are noisier than others, and which ones are worth your money in 2025.
What Makes a Rowing Machine Quiet?
The main factor is resistance type. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Resistance Type | Noise Level | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Magnetic | ★ Very Low | Uses magnets, no friction, or fan |
| Water | ★★ Moderate | Makes a swooshing sound from water |
| Air | ★★★ High | Fan-based resistance gets loud quickly |
Magnetic rowers are the quietest because they use a magnetic brake system — no fans, no splashing water, and almost no moving parts.
Water rowers have a rhythmic whooshing sound that some people love (I do too), but they aren’t “silent.”
Air rowers are the loudest. The harder you pull, the louder they get, which is great for athletes but not ideal for shared living.
🔗 Want to dive deeper into resistance types?
Check out: Magnetic vs. Air vs. Water Rowing Machines
🏆 Best Quiet Rowing Machines (2025 Picks)
Let’s go through the top picks I’ve tested or reviewed with a focus on silence and smooth performance.
1. Merach Q1S Magnetic Rowing Machine
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Noise: Ultra-quiet
- Foldable: Yes
- Max Weight: 350 lbs
If I had to recommend one rower for quiet workouts, this would be it. It’s smooth, silent, has 16 resistance levels, and connects to the Merach app for guided workouts.
I’ve used it during early mornings and late nights, it’s quiet enough that I could row while my roommate was sleeping.
💡 Also featured in: Best Rowing Machines Under $500
2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5801
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Noise: Whisper quiet
- Foldable: Yes
- Max Weight: 285 lbs
A great option if you’re on a tighter budget. It has basic features, an LCD monitor, and is easy to store. It doesn’t make a sound beyond the seat gliding on the rail.
This is perfect for beginners who just want a no-fuss, quiet rowing experience.
🔗 Related: Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Rowing Machine
3. Hydrow Wave Rower
- Resistance Type: Electromagnetic
- Noise: Silent
- Foldable: No
- Max Weight: 375 lbs
Hydrow is premium, and it feels like it. The electromagnetic resistance is so smooth that you barely feel friction. Add a cinematic screen with scenic river workouts, and you’ve got a full-blown studio at home.
If you want luxury and silence combined, this is it.
4. YOSUDA Magnetic Rower
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Noise: Low
- Foldable: Yes
- Max Weight: 350 lbs
YOSUDA consistently makes budget-friendly equipment. This rower is compact, quiet, and easy to move. It’s great for small apartments or tight corners in your bedroom.
The resistance is light to moderate, so it’s better suited for casual or beginner users.
5. WaterRower Natural Rowing Machine
- Resistance Type: Water
- Noise: Moderate (soothing)
- Foldable: Stands upright
- Max Weight: 700 lbs
The WaterRower’s noise is not loud, it’s just different. The sound of water swishing is more meditative than distracting. I found it motivating, like I was rowing outdoors.
While it’s bulkier than others, it looks beautiful and stands upright for storage.
Why Noise Matters (Especially in Apartments)
Here’s what I experienced:
- I used to live in a thin-walled apartment. The air rower I bought first made too much noise, especially during fast intervals.
- My neighbors even left a note once (awkward).
- When I switched to magnetic, everything changed. No noise complaints. No guilt.
If you live with others, noise can be the difference between a long-term habit and giving up.
How to Make Any Rower Even Quieter
Even if your machine is quiet, here are ways to reduce vibrations and subtle sounds:
- ✅ Use a rubber mat underneath
- ✅ Clean and lubricate the rail
- ✅ Wear grippy shoes to avoid squeaks
- ✅ Don’t slam the handle — use controlled strokes
📌 Related Post: Rowing Machine Maintenance Tips
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to tolerate a noisy rower. There are plenty of magnetic models that deliver a smooth, quiet, and effective workout without disturbing anyone in your home.
If I had to recommend just one for silence and reliability, I’d go with the Merach Magnetic Rower. But honestly, every model listed here has a place depending on your budget and space.
Choose quiet, and you’ll be more likely to row consistently and enjoy the process.
FAQs
What is the quietest type of rowing machine?
Magnetic rowers are the quietest due to their frictionless design. They don’t rely on fans or moving water.
Can I use a rowing machine in an upstairs apartment?
Yes, but go with a magnetic rower and use a rubber mat underneath to reduce vibrations through the floor.
Are water rowers noisy?
They’re not silent, but the sound is soothing rather than disruptive. Some users even prefer the meditative water swish.
Will the noise decrease over time?
No, in fact, poor maintenance can increase noise. Clean the rail, tighten bolts, and lubricate where necessary to keep things quiet.