Aerobic rice could be a good alternative to flooded rice, which is facing challenges. Lowland rice varieties Huanghuazhan and Yangliangyou6 showed higher grain yield and efficiency compared to upland rice varieties Lvhan1 and Hanyou3 under aerobic conditions. Lowland rice had more biomass, spikelets, and better use of water and nitrogen. Rainfall was crucial for water use, with lowland rice making better use due to longer growth time. In conclusion, lowland rice can produce more yield than upland rice under aerobic cultivation with proper irrigation.