If you're really looking for something silent, then you should consider an External SSD.

https://www.galaxus.ch/de...

It depends on what you mean by quieter. A 2.5" HDD does not make a lot of noise. Usually less than a 3.5" HDD. It also depends on what you are comparing the whole thing with, or what you mean by "internal, modern hard drive"? Brand, product name, size, capacity, age, etc.? I wouldn't generalise and everyone perceives it differently.