7+ Best Rowing Machines for Apartment (Quietest Option)

Rowing machines have become a popular choice for those looking for a full-body workout in the comfort of their own home. Finding a suitable rowing machine that fits their fitness needs and the limited space can be challenging for those living in apartments.

In this post, we will review the 7 best rowing machines for apartment use, considering factors such as size, noise level, and durability. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of the options available to you and be able to make an informed decision on the best rowing machine for your apartment.

My top recommendation for the best rowing machine for apartment use is the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine. This machine is known for its durability, smooth operation, and low noise level, making it the perfect choice for apartment living.

What are the Best Rowing Machines for Apartment?

Here is the list of top 7 best rowing machine for apartment based on my personal research and experience:

Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine

The Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine is a my top pick for those looking for a high-quality rowing machine for their apartment. This machine is known for its durability, smooth operation, and low noise level, making it the perfect choice for apartment living. It is also designed to fit most users with its 14-inch seat height, adjustable footrests, and ergonomic handle.

It features an advanced performance monitor that allows you to track your progress with real-time, reliable data. It also has adjustable resistance, allowing you to increase or decrease the intensity of your workout. The machine has a sleek design and is easy to set up, making it a great space saver.

The Concept2 Model D is also built to last, with a solid steel and aluminum frame and a maximum user weight of 500 pounds. It also has a comfortable seat and handle, making it easy to use for extended periods.

One of the best things about the Concept2 Model D is its low noise level. This means you can use it at any time of the day or night without disturbing your neighbors. It also separates easily into two pieces for storage and has caster wheels for easy mobility.

Compared to the other rowing machines on the list, the Concept2 Model D stands out for its durability, smooth operation, and low noise level. It also has a sleek design and is easy to set up, making it a great space saver. Its advanced performance monitor and adjustable resistance make it an excellent choice for those who want to track their progress and customize their workout.

The Concept2 Model D also comes with an extended 90-day return window, giving you added peace of mind when making your purchase.

Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine

The Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 Rowing Machine is a compact and versatile option for those looking for a rowing machine for their apartment. This machine is known for its affordable price and variety of resistance levels, making it suitable for users of different fitness levels.

The Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 features a hydraulic cylinder system that offers 12 adjustable resistance levels for a smooth rowing stroke. It also has a ball-bearing roller system that allows for low-impact movements, mimicking rowing on the water.

The machine is designed with a padded and molded seat for comfort during longer rowing routines and textured footplates with straps to keep your feet secure. It also has a smart workout app, the müüv app, that provides smart guided coaching exercise demo videos, personalized workouts, assembly videos, and more.

The Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 is also designed to save space, as it can be folded when not in use.

Compared to the other rowing machines on the list, the Stamina BodyTrac Glider 1050 stands out for its affordability and variety of resistance levels. It also has a comfortable seat and an intelligent workout app, making it an excellent option for those on a budget.

Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine

The Sunny Health & Fitness SFRW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is an excellent option for those looking for a versatile rowing machine for their apartment. This machine is known for its digital monitor, extra-long slide rail, and adjustable magnetic resistance, making it suitable for users of different fitness levels.

The Sunny Health & Fitness SFRW5515 features a large LCD console that displays time, count, calories, total count, and scan. The convenient scan mode allows you to track progress and reach your fitness goals. The slide rail is 48 inches, and the inseam length is 44 inches, accommodating a wide range of users.

The machine has 8 levels of magnetic resistance that can be adjusted to challenge and engage your muscles throughout your fitness journey. It also has built-in transportation wheels for easy portability and textured nonslip foot pedals for safe footing.

It also has nonslip foot pedals and straps to ensure safe footing during the most demanding and vigorous workouts.

Compared to the other rowing machines on the list, the Sunny Health & Fitness SFRW5515 stands out for its digital monitor, extra-long slide rail, and adjustable magnetic resistance. It also has built-in transportation wheels and nonslip foot pedals, making it easy to move and use.

MaxKare Water Rowing Machine

The MaxKare Water Rowing Machine is a great option for those looking for a realistic rowing experience in their apartment. This machine is known for its water resistance system, functional LCD monitor, and durable steel frame.

It is equipped with a water resistance system that provides unlimited resistance and a dynamic response caused by the harmonious interaction with the water. The tension can be adjusted according to the water level and can support a weight capacity of 300 pounds.

The machine also has a functional LCD monitor that tracks your fitness data, including time, 500 m time, SPM (stroke per minute), total strokes, calories, distance, and power/watts. It also has a man-machine competitive mode that makes exercise more enjoyable.

The machine is designed with a cushioned seat, padded handles, and nonslip foot pads for a comfortable rowing experience. It also has floor stabilizers and transportation wheels and can be folded for easy storage.

Compared to the other rowing machines on the list, the MaxKare Water Rowing Machine stands out for its water resistance system, realistic rowing experience, and durable steel frame.

Velocity Exercise Dual Motion Rower

The Velocity Exercise Dual Motion Rower is a great option for those looking for a versatile and durable rowing machine for their apartment. This machine is known for its drum magnetic control system, aluminum frame, and heart rate monitor chest strap.

It is equipped with a drum magnetic control system that offers electronic tensions control to produce the optimum friction needed to build muscle strength and enhance endurance. It also has an anodized aluminum profile with rectangular tubing support to keep your lower back muscles stress-free.

The machine also has a heart rate monitor chest strap to monitor your heart rate for intense cardiovascular training and sessions. It also has an LCD display that tracks your fitness data, including time, count, calories, total count, and scan.

The machine is designed with a padded seat and sturdy aluminum frame to support a weight capacity of 275 pounds. It also has transportation wheels for easy movement and can be folded for easy storage.

Compared to the other rowing machines on the list, the Velocity Exercise Dual Motion Rower stands out for its drum magnetic control system, heart rate monitor chest strap, and durable aluminum frame.

Merax Magnetic Rowing Machine

The Merax Magnetic Rowing Machine is an excellent option for those looking for a versatile and durable rowing machine for their apartment. This machine is known for its adjustable resistance tension knob, padded seat, and large LCD display.

The Merax Magnetic Rowing Machine is equipped with an adjustable resistance tension knob that allows you to switch up the intensity of your rowing workout. It also has a fully padded seat and multiangle rotary footplates to support your bottom and back, ensuring proper blood flow in the glutes for prolonged and vigorous rowing workouts.

The machine also has a large LCD display that tracks your fitness data, including time, count, calories, and total count, allowing you to track your progress and modify your current routine accordingly.

The machine is designed with a 15-degree angled seat rail and a built-in magnetic flywheel that minimizes noise while maximizing a smooth feel during the exercise process. It also has a foldable frame and built-in wheels for easy transport and storage.

Compared to the other rowing machines on the list, the Merax Magnetic Rowing Machine stands out for its adjustable resistance tension knob, padded seat, and large LCD display.

ProForm 440R Rower

The ProForm 440R Rower is an excellent option for those looking for a versatile and high-tech rowing machine for their apartment. This machine is known for its 8 rowing resistance levels, inertia-enhanced flywheel, pivoting bike pedals, ergonomic seat, and aluminum seat rail, as well as a low pulley for curls, deadlifts, tricep extensions, and more.

The ProForm 440R Rower has a digital resistance system that offers 8 levels with easy adjustment for a customized workout experience. The machine also has a large LCD monitor that tracks your fitness data, including strokes per minute, total strokes, distance, time, and calories burned. The pivoting bike pedals, adjustable foot straps, and inertia-enhanced flywheel provide a smooth and steady rowing stroke.

The machine is designed with a padded seat and sturdy aluminum frame that can support a weight capacity of 440 pounds. It has a space-saving foldup design and front-mounted transport wheels for easy movement and storage. The low pulley system allows for additional strength training exercises such as bicep curls, deadlifts, deltoid raises, and overhead tricep extensions.

Compared to the other rowing machines on the list, the ProForm 440R Rower stands out for its 8 levels of resistance, low pulley system for strength training, and high-tech features such as the LCD monitor and inertia-enhanced flywheel.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Rowing Machine for Apartment

Here is the list of things I considered to compile this list of 7 best rowing machines for an apartment:

Space: The first and most crucial factor to consider is the space you have in your apartment. Make sure to measure the area where you place the rowing machine and compare it to the machine’s dimensions before making a purchase.

Noise level: Rowing machines can be pretty loud, so if you have neighbors below or next to you, it’s essential to consider the machine’s noise level before making a purchase. Magnetic resistance machines tend to be quieter than other types of resistance systems.

Resistance type: Rowing machines come with different types of resistance systems, such as air, water, magnetic, and hydraulic. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to consider which will best suit your needs before making a purchase.

Weight capacity: Make sure to check the weight capacity of the rowing machine before making a purchase. Choosing a machine that can support your weight and any other family member who may use it is essential.

Comfort: Consider the comfort of the seat and the handles of the rowing machine. A comfortable seat and handlebars will ensure that you can use the machine for extended periods without experiencing discomfort.

Display: Consider the type of display that the rowing machine has. Some machines come with simple displays that only show the time and distance, while others come with more advanced displays that show calories burned, stroke rate, and more.

Portability: Consider the portability of the rowing machine. Some machines come with built-in wheels, making moving them around easy, while others are more difficult to move.

Price: Consider the cost of the rowing machine. Rowing machines can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, so it’s essential to set a budget and stick to it.

Suggestions for maximizing your rowing machine experience in a small space:

Please measure your space before buying a rowing machine: Before purchasing a rowing machine, make sure to measure the space in your apartment where you plan to place it. This will ensure you buy a machine that fits comfortably in your designated area.

Consider a folding or compact design: Many rowing machines come with a folding or compact design that allows you to easily store the machine when not in use. This is an excellent option for those with limited space.

Use a mat or carpet protector: Placing a mat or carpet protector under your rowing machine will help protect your flooring and keep the machine stable during your workout.

Utilize wall mounts or racks: Some rowing machines come with wall mounts or racks that allow you to store the machine vertically when not in use. This is a great option for those with limited floor space.

Incorporate strength and cardio exercises: Rowing machines are great for strength and cardio exercises, so consider incorporating other exercises into your routine to maximize your workout experience.

Use a fan or open a window for ventilation: Rowing machines can generate a lot of heat and humidity, so make sure to use a fan or open a window to keep your space cool and comfortable.

Find a quiet machine: Some rowing machines can be loud, so look for models with a quiet operation to minimize any disturbance to your neighbors.

Get a machine with adjustable resistance: Rowing machines with adjustable resistance allow you to change the intensity of your workout and cater to your fitness level.

Consider the noise level: Rowing machines can be quite loud, especially when using them for extended periods. Look for models with low noise levels to minimize any disturbance to your neighbors.

Get a machine with an ergonomic design: An ergonomic design will ensure that you are comfortable while rowing, which will help you to maintain good posture and avoid any injuries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the right rowing machine for your apartment can be a challenge. Still, with the right research and consideration of factors such as size, resistance type, and additional features, you can find the perfect machine for your needs.

Our top pick, the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine, offers a topoftheline design and performance, while the other options on our list also offer great features and benefits.

Remember to also take into account tips for maximizing your rowing machine experience in a small space to make the most out of your workout. Happy rowing!

FAQs

Can I use a rowing machine in an apartment?

Yes, you can use a rowing machine in an apartment. However, it is important to consider the size and noise level of the machine before purchasing it to ensure it will fit in your space and not disturb your neighbors.

Additionally, many rowing machines have the option to fold up for easy storage in smaller spaces. It’s always a good idea to check the dimensions and weight of the machine before purchasing it to make sure it will fit in your apartment.

Is 30 minutes of rowing a day enough?

Yes, 30 minutes of rowing a day can be enough to provide a good cardiovascular workout and improve overall fitness.

Can you get a flat stomach using a rowing machine?

Yes, using a rowing machine can help to tone and strengthen the muscles in your stomach, which can lead to a flatter appearance. However, it is important to note that in order to see visible results, you will need to combine regular rowing with a healthy diet and other forms of exercise that target the abdominal area.

Additionally, it is important to note that spot reduction is not possible, meaning you cannot target fat loss in a specific area of the body through exercise alone. Therefore, to achieve a flat stomach, it is important to focus on overall body health and fitness.