Air rowers use a fan, so resistance rises the harder you pull; they feel closest to rowing on water and are the gym standard. Magnetic rowers are the quietest and set resistance with a dial. Water rowers use paddles in a tank for a smooth, natural sound and feel. Hydraulic rowers use pistons, cost less and fold small, but feel least like real rowing.
All rowers train the same movement, but the resistance system changes the feel, the noise and the price.
Side by side
| Type | How it works | Feel | Noise | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air | Fan | Resistance rises with effort | Moderate fan noise | Gym standard |
| Magnetic | Magnets near a flywheel | Smooth, set by dial | Quietest | Good for apartments |
| Water | Paddles in a water tank | Natural, smooth surge | Gentle water sound | Large, heavy |
| Hydraulic | Pistons on the arms | Less like real rowing | Quiet | Compact and low cost |
Which suits you?
- Training and racing data: air.
- Shared walls, early mornings: magnetic.
- Looks and feel in a living room: water.
- Tight budget and space: hydraulic.
Check before buying
Rail length for your height, seat height, footprint and upright storage, user weight limit, and the monitor’s data.
Related: treadmill buying guide.
Common questions
Which rowing machine is quietest?
Magnetic rowers are usually the quietest. Air rowers make fan noise that rises with effort.
How much space does a rowing machine need?
Full-size rowers are long. Concept2, for example, recommends a space of about 9 by 4 feet for its RowErg. Many models stand upright for storage.
What is the damper setting on an air rower?
The damper controls how much air reaches the fan. Higher settings feel heavier but do not by themselves mean a better workout.