Best Compact Rowing Machines for Apartments (2025 Guide)

Introduction

If you live in an apartment, you know the struggle: you want full-body cardio and strength workouts without filling your living room with bulky gym equipment. That’s where the best compact rowing machines for apartments come in. Rowing is one of the most efficient workouts you can do, engaging your arms, legs, and core while burning serious calories. But traditional rowers are 8+ feet long and noisy—far from apartment-friendly.

The good news? In 2025, there will be numerous compact rowing machines available for small apartments. These machines fold up, store vertically, or separate into two pieces, all while maintaining smooth and quiet resistance. Whether you’re in a studio, a one-bedroom, or a shared dorm-style apartment, you can still get a serious workout without sacrificing your entire floor space.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

The best compact rowing machines for apartments (air, magnetic, and water models)
How much space they take when stored
Noise considerations (so your neighbors don’t complain)
Which ones give the best bang for your buck

By the end, you’ll know exactly which rower fits your apartment lifestyle.

Quick Picks

Best overall compact rower: Concept2 Model D (RowErg) – legendary durability, splits in two pieces, easy to store upright.
Best foldable budget rower: XTERRA ERG200 – lightweight magnetic resistance, folds up, under $300.
Best stylish water rower: Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian – vertical storage, quiet swish water sound.

Comparison Table

Model	Resistance Type	Fold/Storage	Dimensions (Folded)	Price/Link	Best For
Concept2 Model D	Air	Splits in two pieces / upright storage	25” x 33” x 54” (stored)	Check Price	Overall performance
XTERRA ERG200	Magnetic	Folds upright	45” x 20” x 57”	Check Price	Budget small spaces
Sunny Obsidian	Water	Stores vertically	33” x 20” x 65”	Check Price	Quiet stylish rower

1. Concept2 Model D (RowErg) – Best Overall

The Concept2 RowErg (formerly Model D) is hands-down the best compact rowing machine for apartments. It’s used in gyms worldwide for a reason: rock-solid build quality, accurate performance tracking, and a smooth air resistance system that adapts to your effort. All of this makes it one of the best compact rowing machines for apartments.

Why it’s apartment-friendly:

It separates into two lightweight pieces in seconds. Each piece is easy to carry and can stand upright in a closet or corner.
Folded dimensions are about 25” x 33” x 54”, making it surprisingly compact.
Noise is just a gentle fan whir, acceptable during daytime apartment workouts.

If you want a rower that lasts for years and doesn’t need replacing, this is the one.

concept2 model d compact rower stored upright in apartment

2. XTERRA ERG200 – Best Foldable Budget Rower

For under $300, the XTERRA ERG200 is one of the best compact rowers for apartments if you’re tight on cash and space. All of this makes it one of the best compact rowing machines for apartments.

Foldable frame – collapses to about 45” x 20” x 57”.
Magnetic resistance – nearly silent, perfect for upstairs apartments or shared spaces.
Lightweight build – only ~55 lbs, easy to roll into a corner after workouts.

It’s not as heavy-duty as a Concept2, but if you’re a beginner or casual rower who needs something affordable, this rower is a solid entry point.

best compact rowing machines for apartments

3. Sunny Health & Fitness Obsidian – Best Stylish Water Rower

The Sunny Obsidian Water Rower brings aesthetics into the equation. Water rowers are typically bulky, but this model is built to stand vertically, making it much more space-efficient. All of this makes it one of the best compact rowing machines for apartments.

Storage height: About 65” tall when vertical.
Resistance: Smooth water swish that actually masks noise, more neighbor-friendly than air rowers.
Design: Sleek frame that doesn’t look out of place in a modern apartment living room.

If you want compact design and an authentic rowing feel, this is your pick.

sunny health fitness obsidian water rower stored vertically

Apartment Rowing Machine Buying Guide

1. Storage Space

Compact rowing machines are only compact when stored. Always check folded/vertical dimensions. Look for anything under 65” tall for upright storage or under 3 feet deep when folded.

2. Noise Levels

Magnetic rowers = quietest (great for late-night or upstairs use).
Air rowers = fan noise, not terrible but can carry through thin walls.
Water rowers = soothing swish sound, most neighbor-friendly.

3. Portability

If you’ll roll it out for workouts and tuck it away after, check for wheels and lightweight design. A rower over 100 lbs may not be practical in a small apartment.

4. Durability vs. Price

Budget rowers (<$300) are fine for light use, but serious rowers should invest in something durable like the Concept2.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a rowing machine upstairs?
Yes. Magnetic and water rowers are very quiet; place a rubber mat under the machine to damp vibration.

Q: How much space do I need?
Most compact rowers need ~8 feet length unfolded, but fold to under 3 feet depth for storage.

Q: What’s the quietest rower for apartments?
Magnetic rowers like the XTERRA ERG200 are the quietest option.

Final Verdict

The bottom line: you don’t need a huge home gym to stay fit in an apartment. The best compact rowing machines for apartments are built for tight spaces without cutting corners on performance.

Get the Concept2 RowErg if you want long-term durability, accurate performance, and compact upright storage.
Choose the XTERRA ERG200 if you’re on a budget and want a quiet, foldable option under $300.
Pick the Sunny Obsidian if you want a stylish water rower that doubles as functional fitness equipment and modern apartment décor.

No matter your choice, all three deliver full-body workouts in a footprint small enough for apartments. That’s why rowing machines are quickly becoming one of the best investments for compact gyms in 2025.

So if you’ve been waiting to start rowing because you thought you didn’t have space—this is your sign. Your perfect compact rowing machine is just one click away.