If you’re looking for a low-impact way to do cardiovascular exercises and keep fit, elliptical machines or trainers are
the best way to do so.
Elliptical or cross trainers are stationary machines that simulate stair climbing, walking or running. They help you avoid impact injuries, as elliptical trainers are designed to not put much pressure on the joints.
These trainers are generally powered by the user’s legs, hence exercising the lower body, but most of the elliptical trainers have hand levers connected with pedal-links. This lets users push and pull handle levers, exerting a secondary source of power on the machine and helping in upper-body exercise of the user. Check out our complete guide about the best rowing machines.
You can modulate your workout speed and set resistance of the machine to make it a high or low-intensity workout on an elliptical machine. We have also written a complete guide about the best folding treadmills.
Advantages and uses of best elliptical machines
An elliptical trainer is a great piece of exercise machinery, especially if you plan to exercise at home. You can burn as 
much calories on an elliptical trainer as that on a treadmill. As you do not take your feet off the pedal on an elliptical trainer, they are much lighter on your joints.
Some of the main benefits of using an elliptical trainer are:
Full-body workout
Elliptical machines are quite versatile and can be used to workout various muscle groups by changing the stride length. You can even change the rate of calorie burnt during a workout by changing the stride length, without any change in your perceived exertion.
It helps in upper and lower-body workout, as there is leg movement involved in moving the pedals and hand movement involved in pulling and pushing of handles connected to the pedal-links. With different levels of resistances, you can change the intensity of your workout, and hence the calories burnt.
Increased cardiovascular capacity
If you use an elliptical machine 3-4 times a week, 30 minutes a day, then you will see a great improvement in your activeness and alertness. It helps you improve your stamina and cardio health, which makes you feel more active throughout the day.
Weight-bearing exercises
With elliptical machines, you can exercise your hips, knees and ankles, while simulating walking, running or climbing. This helps in keeping your joints moving and in strengthening your bones. It also helps prevent osteoporosis among users. Elliptical trainers provide low-impact exercise, enabling you to exercise for longer without much strain on the joints.
Weight loss
You can adjust your workout speed, and the machine’s resistance, incline and stride length to modulate the calories you want to burn during your workout.
Improves mobility and balance
Elliptical trainers improve balance and mobility of joints of users. It improves movement in the hip, and for the same reason is even recommended post an ACL surgery. With the upper and lower body exercise, your core is strengthened, improving your balance.
Easily storable
A lot of elliptical machines can be easily stored in the corner of a room, or can be made to stand to take less space when not being used. This makes it easily for people who want to have an elliptical trainer at home, but have less space in the house.
Easy to maintain
Elliptical machines are easy to maintain, with frame and motor warranties on most of the models. You can easily store them away, and clean them to increase their life.
Entertainment while exercising
Some people like to multi-task or want to make the best of their exercise time, and various elliptical machines let you do that. Many elliptical machines come with in-built speakers, so you can listen to music or an audio book. You can even adjust the exercise preferences on your machine and read a book while you exercise. Since these machines are generally very quiet, you can even watch TV while training
Types of elliptical machines
Following are the three main types of elliptical machines:
Elliptical trainer
In elliptical trainers, only your lower body is exercised, as the pedals are powered only by the movement of your legs. The pedals move in an elliptical motion, exercising the lower part of your body. The handles in an elliptical trainer are stationary and only for support.
Elliptical cross-trainer
With elliptical cross-trainers, both the upper and lower parts of the body move, as both the pedals and handles move in elliptical motion while exercising. These allow full-body workouts and are more effective in cardio training.
Elliptical glider
In elliptical gliders, the legs glide up and down, instead of in an elliptical motion. There is no hand motion in elliptical gliders.
Elliptical machines can also be classified on the basis of the location of the drive:
Front-drive
Front-drive elliptical machines are more compact and simulate stair climbing. This provides for an intense workout. They are easy to store.
Centre-drive
Elliptical machines with drive located in the middle are more widely used now. They provide for a more wholesome workout, and are quieter.
Rear-drive
These are generally larger in size. With the drive located in the rear, they help simulate walking and jogging actions. The ramp’s incline in a rear-drive machine can be easily adjusted to modulate the intensity of your workout.
Key features of high-quality elliptical machines
When purchasing an elliptical machine, evaluate it on the basis of the following features to ensure that the product is 
suitable to your needs.
Stride length
Check that the machine accommodate your stride length, so that the movement of your legs is smooth and not jerky. Eighteen inches or more is considered to be a good stride length, but it might vary for you, depending upon the length of your legs.
Incline
Some of the elliptical machines come with an adjustable incline, which helps adjusting the intensity of workout that you wish to undertake.
Pedal height
A low pedal height makes it convenient to get on and off the machines. Check that the pedal height of the machine you purchase is suitable to you.
Accessories
Elliptical machines come with alerts and features like time, distance covered, heart monitors, workout options, workout intensity levels, resistance level adjusters, water bottle holder, iPad dock, USB ports, speakers, and wifi connectivity. These help in a more efficient and entertaining workout.
Stability
However, all the new el
liptical machines have very stable designs, you can try the machine of your choice once to ensure that you get the right balance. Do check that the frame of your machine is good-quality.
Storable
Having a foldable machine solves one of the main problems that comes with an elliptical machine, i.e. to find space to store it while it is not in use. These days you get two options of elliptical machines—folding and non-folding machines. You can choose one as per the space available at your house or workout space.
Warranty
Most of the machines come with frame and motor warranties. Check for suitable options while buying your machine.
TOP 15 BEST ELLIPTICAL MACHINES IN 2022
| Picture | Name | Feature | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Picture | Name | Feature | Price | Rating |
 | 1. ProForm 735 E Elliptical Trainer | 18 pound Inertia-Enhanced Flywheel | $$$ | 4.8 |
 | 2. Body Solid E300 Endurance Elliptical Trainer | Dual-action upper and lower | $$$ | 4.8 |
 | 3. NordicTrack Spacesaver SE9i Elliptical Trainers | 30 Workout Apps | $$$ | 4.7 |
 | 4. ProForm Endurance 920E Trainer | 7 inch length | $$$ | 4.6 |
 | 5. Nautilus 100391 E614 Elliptical Trainer | 20-Inch stride length | $$$ | 4.6 |
 | 6. AFG Sport 5.9AE Elliptical, Gray | 23lb flywheel | $$$ | 4.5 |
 | 7. Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine (2016) | 20 levels of computer controlled resistance | $$$ | 4.5 |
 | 8. ProForm Smart Strider 495 CSE Elliptical | 18 inch stride length | $$$ | 4.5 |
 | 9. Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine (2017) | 49 Ib flywheel and 275 lb user weight | $$$ | 4.4 |
 | 10. Horizon Fitness EX-59-02 Elliptical Trainer | 5″ LCD display | $$$ | 4.3 |
| 11. ProForm 150I Elliptical | height inseam of 29 – 40 in | $$$ | 4.2 | |
 | 12. Body Power Elliptical Cross Trainer with Monitor | dual-set handlebars | $$$ | 4.1 |
| 13. Fuel Fitness FE44 Elliptical | Heavy 15lb flywheel | $$$ | 4.0 | |
 | 14. Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine | 8 levels of magnetic resistance | $$$ | 4.0 |
 | 15. Kettler Home Exercise/Fitness Equipment: UNIX M Elliptical Trainer | 40 pound drive system | $$$$ | 3.9 |
1. ProForm Smart Strider 735 Elliptical Trainer (Top Pick)
Go for a full-body workout at home with ProForm’s well-designed trainer
Our top pick among the elliptical machines available in the market is ProForm Smart Strider 735. It is an Elliptical
trainer that is easy to use and store. It has various features that make it our favourite of the lot. Following are a few features and Pros and Cons that will give you a clear picture about this wonderful piece of machinery.
Design & Build
It has commercial-grade steel construction. It has a power adjustable incline to adjust your workout outcomes. It comes with a 5-inch backlit display, and it is iFit compatible, has iPod compatible audio, and 22 workout apps. This well-engineered machinery provides for a wholesome workout.
It has 20 digital resistance levels, EKG grip pulse, SMR silent magnetic resistance, and soft touch upper-body grips.
It has an 18 pound inertia-enhanced flywheel, and its foot pedals can be adjusted to fit your feet. It has transport wheels, oversized levelers, and a space saver design.
The weight capacity of the machines is 300 Lb. The dimensions of the product are 78.5 x 30 x 18 inches, and its weight is 190 pounds, which is quite manageable with the transport wheels.
Colors – it is generally available in are grey and red. It comes with a lifetime frame warranty.
Features & Functionality
It offers a total body, low-impact workout. It has a rear-incline design, and hence the incline adjustment feature can help one target specific muscle groups for workout and burn more calories. You can adjust the power ramp between zero to ten degrees. The dual grip features let you switch between low and high-intensity workouts. It’s iFit compatible—you can adjust the workout programme to various outdoor environments. Its features make it easy to use, and adjustable to make your workout effective.
Ease of Use
The assembly of Smart Strider is fast and easy. Its vertical space saver design makes it easy to store in less space. It also has transport wheels, to make it easy-to-move.
Accessories
You can plug-in your iPod to listen to your favorite music while working out. There is an in-built speaker. The Coolaire workout fan on the trainer keeps you cool while you exercise. It has a water bottle holder. You can choose between its 22 workout apps
Pros
- Full-body workout with dual handles and adjustable incline
- Smooth movement of legs, reducing impact on joints
- 20 digital resistance levels
- Easy to use and store
- Combines exercise and entertainment
Cons
- No in-handle controls
- LCD display is only 5 inches
- Light flywheel, i.e. only 18 pounds—can leads to noise and bumpiness
- iFit module has to be purchased separately
2. Body Solid E300 Endurance Elliptical Trainer
Body Solid E300 Endurance brings quality workout to the convenience of your home. It has a compact design that offers space efficiency. Its workout features like resistance, heart rate monitoring, comfortable and natural stride and
dual handgrips offer you a full-body workout. The design combines research and technology to offer quality cardio training to users.
Design & Build
This elliptical trainer has a sturdy construction with steel tubing and patented center-drive design. It offers stability to users during the workout with its low center of gravity and balanced frame design.
It has a 5-inch LED display, contact heart rate monitor, and a stride length of 21 inches.
Its foot pedals are big enough to accommodate bigger feet, but are non-adjustable. Its maximum user weight capacity is 300 pounds.
The dimensions of this compact product are 50″ L x 31″ W x 66″ H, and its weight is 232 lbs (105.2 kg), offering space efficiency. The transport wheels make it easier to manage.
It comes with a lifetime warranty on frame, 5 years on parts, 2 years on electronics, 1 year on labor, and 6 months on wear parts. It has a comfortable step-up height of 8 inches.
Features & Functionality
With its dual handgrips, it provides a full-body workout. Its anatomically correct elliptical path and 21-inch stride length offer natural walking simulation, and a low-impact workout.
Its incline is non-adjustable, but its dual handlebars—mobile and fixed—with pulse sensors offer a total-body workout.
You can adjust its magnetic, motorized resistance from level 1 to 20 to manage the intensity of your exercise.
The LED console display provides feedback such as time, distance, speed, strides per minute, calories, and heart rate, to help you manage your exercise routine.
It has 7 pre-set fitness programs–speed training, intervals, mountain, manual, random, hill, and Int. Mountain. The trainer’s two custom user programs allow multiple users to customize their workouts.
Ease of Use
The machine’s assembly requires careful following of the instruction in the manual. It can take up to two hours for the entire task.
Its compact design makes it easy to place in the corner of a room or wherever you have space. The transport wheels make it easy to move around.
Accessories
This elliptical trainer has a 5-inch LED digital screen that offers useful information about the workout to the user. There are 6 preset workout environments that can be used to modulate your exercise. The machine has a water bottle holder, as well.
Pros
- Center-drive design, with high stability
- 21-inch stride and well-engineered elliptical path for a natural stride
- 20 levels of resistance
- Contact heart rate monitor
- Compact design with transport wheels
- Easy-to-use digital console
- Two customizable user profiles
- Excellent warranty plan
Cons
- Non-adjustable incline
- No online connectivity
- No music or sound system
3. NordicTrack Spacesaver SE9i Elliptical Trainers
NordicTrack spacesaver SE9i elliptical trainer for home is a hi-tech machine that helps you undertake a low-impact,
full-body workout. It has various features like adjustable incline and resistance that helps you customize your workout. The HD, web-enabled display offers you an entertaining exercise session.
Design & Build
SE9i has a rear drive machine design with an incline that is adjustable from 0 to 10 degrees. The foot pedals of the machine are adjustable to offer you a comfortable footing while you exercise. It uses an 18-pound flywheel, which offers a natural stride with low-impact. Its dual grips have CardioGrip heart rate monitors.
It has a 7-inch HD display that is web-enabled, and it’s iFit powered with wireless bluetooth iFit chest straps.
Its weight capacity is 325 lbs. The dimensions of the trainer are 80″ L x 32″ W x 77″ H, and it weighs 218 lbs.
The machine can be folded and stored with very less footprint. Its transport wheels allow for easy movement.
It comes with a 5-year warranty on the frame and 2-year warranty on labor.
Features & Functionality
The rear drive of the machine puts low-impact on your back. The power adjustable incline helps you focus on various muscle groups, making your workout effective. The adjustable pedals provide apt ergonomics. The resistance level adjustment from 1 to 24 can help you modulate the intensity of your workout.
The HD display offers web access for entertainment and inspiration.
It’s iFit powered, offering you valuable feedback on your workout for more efficiency and effectiveness. It has 30 workout apps for variety in sessions. The quick-touch handle controls make it easy for you to control the display and change your resistance and incline levels without halting your stride.
Ease of Use
Assembly of this elliptical machine is very easy. It has a vertically foldable frame that helps you store it in a corner after use. The trainer wheels make it easy to move around.
It’s easy to use, and the display is easy to control with the quick-touch handle controls.
Accessories
It has 30 workout apps. The auto-breeze workout fan keeps you comfortable while you exercise. You can plug in your iPod, and listen to music on its 2-inch speakers. You have access to web through its HD display.
Pros
- It has a space-saving foldable frame
- Quick-touch handle controls allow easy use of the features on the console
- Accessories add value to your workout experience
- iFit lets you have a wholesome, interactive workout
- Adjustable incline and resistance let you make your workout more effective
Cons
- Light flywheel of. only 18 pounds can lead to noise and bumpiness
- When unfolded for use, the footprint of the machine is long
- The stride of 18 inches can be limiting for tall users
4. ProForm Endurance 920E Trainer
An elliptical trainer for a versatile workout
ProForm Endurance 920E trainer is one of the most advanced models of the Endurance series of ProForm. Like NordicTrack’s SE9i, it has a web-powered digital screen that can be used for a very versatile workout. It has 
adjustable stride length that can vary between 18 to 22 inches, and it has 24 resistance levels to choose from, for a focussed exercise session.
Design & Build
It has a power ramp whose incline can be adjusted between zero to twenty degrees.
It has a 25 lbs flywheel that offers stability to the machine.
The dimensions of the trainer are 67.1″ L x 25″ W x 69.1″ H. Its weight capacity is 325 lbs.
This home elliptical trainer comes with a lifetime warranty on frame, three-year warranty on parts and electronics and one-year warranty of labor.
Features & Functionality
The console’s inclination can be adjusted to tone the muscles that you aim to, and its automated incline adjustment with Google Maps workout simulates the up and down inclination of a real-life running or walking scenario.
The resistance level of the elliptical machine can be set from 1 to 24 for a less or more rigorous workout. The stride length can also be adjusted to match your natural walking style.
The 7-inch HD screen offers a variety of functionalities to monitor and control your workout activities. You can also connect to the web for entertainment and inspiration, using the console. The trainer has heart rate monitors on its dual grips and through wireless straps, so that you can plan and monitor your cardio activities.
Ease of Use
This trainer’s assembly is not so difficult. It has front transport wheel for ease of moving it around. the console is easy-to-use with its simple user interface.
Accessories
It has 32 workout apps for different cardio workouts. The CoolAir workout fan provides for a comfortable workout. It has 2-inch speakers. The console can be connected with your iPod for entertainment. It’s iFit enabled. The tablet holder helps you keep your mobile devices handy.
Pros
- The colored 7-inch screen offers a variety of apps and workout control features
- Power adjustable incline, resistance and stride offer a wholesome workout
- The accessories like CoolAir fan, iPod connector, and speakers add to its value
Cons
- The front drive design can be hard on the people with lower back problems
- iFit subscription comes separately
5. Nautilus E614 Elliptical Trainer
A compact elliptical trainer for your home
Nautilus E614 Elliptical trainer for home comes with all the essential features. It has a comfortable stride length,
adjustable ramp and resistance, and advanced workout programs to keep you focussed and motivated. It’s lightweight and easy to maintain. A good option for someone not looking for a heavy-duty exercise machinery.
Design & Build
It has a grip heart rate monitor. The 20-inch stride length allows for a comfortable workout. Its 20 levels of resistance help in a rigorous or easy workout. Dual handles allow a full-body workout. The ramp can be manually adjusted to 6 positions to change the outcome of your exercise session.
It has a high-speed, but high-inertia drive system that offers a smooth and low-impact workout.
The dimensions of the machine are 70L x 28W x 71H. The weight of the machine is 167.3 lbs, which is very easy to manage and move around. The maximum user weight that the machine can take is 300 lbs.
This elliptical home trainer has a 10-year frame, 2-year mechanical, 1-year electrical , and 90-day labor warranties.
Features & Functionality
It has 22 workout programs that cover 9 profiles, 8 heart-rate controlled workouts, 2 user profiles, 2 fitness tests and a Quickstart guide. Its two LCD displays on the console give information about up to 13 workout variables, so that you can monitor your exercise regime.
Ease of Use
It can be easily assembled, and is easy to use. Transport wheels allow easy movability of the machine.
Accessories
It has a charging USB port, which can also be used for data export to Myfitnesspal and NautilusConnect websites and apps. It has acoustic speakers to add some fun to your workout. It has a 3-speed fan to be used to stay cool.
Pros
- 22 workout programs
- Tablet holder
- USB charger
- Compatible with MyFitnessPal and NautilusConnect apps
Cons
- The body is well-built but light, and may lead to shakiness during the workout
- The ramp adjustment is manual, limiting it accessibility in the middle of a workout
6. AFG Sport 5.9AE Elliptical, Gray
A simple machine for a full-body workout
AFG Sport 5.9E Elliptical trainer is well-designed to offer a good body posture during your workout. Its console
offers 43 workout programs that use different levels of incline and resistance to provide an effective cardio workout as per your requirement.
Design & Build
It has a front precision-drive design that offers a flat ellipse motion and a smooth workout. The special frame design offers a natural posture and body movement. The heavy-welded steel frame offers stability to the machine. What makes it one of the best elliptical home machines is that it allows for versatility in the workout with its power adjusted incline, 23 lb flywheel, 20 resistance levels and 43 workout programs.
It has 5-watt bluetooth speakers for entertainment. Your tablet can also be connected to the console.
The dimensions of the elliptical trainer are 76L x 34W x 57H. Its weight is 237 pounds.
Features & Functionality
The power-adjustable incline, resistance and workout programs offer a versatile workout to the users. It has 20 quick-touch performance keys that can be easily used to control your exercise’s effectiveness. You can monitor your cardio workout with the information displayed on the LED screen and the wireless heart rate chest strap.
The cushioned grips on the handlebars add to the comfort of your workout.
You can connect your tablet to the elliptical via bluetooth to monitor your workout and control the trainer. Multiple users can set their customized workout accounts on the console.
Ease of Use
It’s easy to use and maintain. The console, with its wireless connectivity options for tablets and music devices, makes the use of this elliptical trainer very easy.
Accessories
It has bluetooth speakers that can be used to play music, using your mobile devices. It has USB charging ports and bluetooth speakers to enable playing uninterrupted music during the workout . The fitness fan on the machine keeps you comfortable.
Pros
- Its compact design is easy to maintain and move around
- The wireless speakers and tablet connectivity offer ease-of-use
- Power-adjustable incline and resistance provide a wholesome workout
- 23 lb flywheel gives stability to the machine
Cons
- The stride length is not adjustable
7. Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine
A cost-effective home elliptical machine
Schwinn 430 is a starter model among the best elliptical machines for home workout. It has all the essential features,
but the quality of its parts is not as high as the above mentioned elliptical trainers. Nevertheless, its console is well-equipped with workout apps, and its incline is adjustable to train for different results.
Design & Build
It has a front-drive elliptical design. The 20-inch elliptical stride offers a natural motion. It has six incline angles for different workout goals. Its 20 levels of resistance allow for a controlled cardio workout.
The handlebars have pulse sensors, monitoring your heart rate at all times. The data is displayed on the digital screen, so that you are mindful of the activity and its result.
The user weight capacity of this compact machine is 350 lbs, which is quite high. The dimensions of the machine are 70.1″ L x 28.2″ W x 63.2″ H.
Features & Functionality
The six incline angles allow for different workout goals. You can target different sets of muscles with different incline angles. Its 20 levels of resistance let you adjust your cardio workout intensity.
The console allows creation of two user profiles, so that more than one user can tailor their workout regime on the machine. There are 20 workout programs in the console, including fitness tests. The screen is large enough to display various types of stats about your workout.
Ease of Use
The bluetooth connectivity lets you export data to SchwinnConnect app for analysis and better planning of your future workouts. It’s lightweight and easy to handle.
Accessories
It has a USB charging port that can also be used for data exporting to SchwinnConnect, where you can track your workout goal achievements. It has a sound system that can be connected to your iPod. It has a water bottle holder and a cooling fan, too.
Pros
- The user weight capacity of the machine is quite high
- It’s quite affordable
- Saves space
Cons
- With its front-drive and non-adjustable pedals, there may be extra pressure on your lower back
- The incline is manual, hence requires halting of the workout for adjustments
- Plastic is used for parts like pedal rollers, making them less durable
- Contact heart rate monitor has unreliable results
8. ProForm Smart Strider 495 CSE Elliptical
Low-priced and high-featured elliptical machine for home
ProForm is an affordable elliptical machine with a rear-drive design. It offers a whole-body workout, and can be folded and stowed away when not being used. It is not loaded with many features like its expensive counterparts, but
has sufficient features for a good and low-impact workout
Design & Build
Its 13-lbs flywheel provides an easy motion. The 18-inch stride is comfortable for not too tall users. It has 18 resistance levels. It is iFit compatible.
The dimensions of the machines are 65″ L x 32″ W x 80″ H. It has a weight capacity of 275 lbs.
This elliptical trainer comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame, a year-long warranty on the parts and one-year warranty for labor.
Features & Functionality
Its 18 resistance level, 18-inch stride and 18 preset workout programs offer a versatile and wholesome workout. Its console provides useful information about your workout, like time, distance covered, pulse rate, and calories burnt.
The iFit compatibility enables Google Maps workout and customized cardio training. You can track your workout data and plan for a more effective routine to build your cardio endurance. You can connect your tablet to the console for a Google-street-view workout, and to access many features of the console.
Ease of Use
It is lightweight and easy to maintain. Its transport wheels make it easy to move around the house. The iFit compatibility makes it convenient for users to manage their workout routine.
Accessories
It comes with iPod compatible speakers and a water bottle holder. It has a tablet holder, too
Pros
- Rear drive design helps in maintaining a good posture
- Affordable
- It’s iFit compatible
Cons
- The stride length is limited to 18 inches
- The flywheel is lightweight, and can lead to shakiness
- It does not have the possibility of connecting a wireless heart rate monitor
- The grip pulse monitor doesn’t give very accurate reading
9. Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine
For a healthy and active lifestyle
Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine gives a complete cardio workout session at home with its motorized ramp, 25 levels
of resistance, and customizable programs on the console. Its integrated heart-rate monitor lets you monitor your workout for effective results.
Design & Build
It has a front-drive design with a 20-inch Precision Path stride, which allows a natural movement during your workout. You can choose from its 25 levels of resistances and ten degrees of ramp. It has a high-inertia, perimeter weighted flywheel.
It has two LCD displays that give information about your workout. The heart rate monitor lets you keep a check on your pulse and customize your workout accordingly.
The dimensions of the machine are 70.1″ L x 28.2″ W x 63.2″ H. Its weight is 235 lbs.
The machine has warranty of 10 years on the frame, 2 years on its mechanical parts, 1 year on electrical parts and 90 days on labor.
Features & Functionality
The console gives information about 13 different variable of your workout. You can use that information to ensure that you are getting the desired results. It has 29 workout programs, and 4 user settings to give you a customised experience to reach your personal training goals.
The ability to adjust resistance levels and its high inertia flywheel offer a versatile and smooth workout. However, the front drive design of the machine can be a little awkward for your lower back, it is designed to keep your session as comfortable as possible.
You can export your workout data from the console to Schwinn Connect, and optimise your exercise session.
Ease of Use
It’s easy to use with easy console features. The setup process of this home elliptical machine is fairly simple.
Accessories
It comes with a USB port for charging and data export to Schwinn Connect.
Pros
- 29 workout programs
- 20-inch Precision Path stride
- Easy assembly
- Heart rate monitor
Cons
- Has a large footprint
- The front drive doesn’t offer a great posture for the user’s back
10. Horizon Fitness EX-59-02 Elliptical Trainer
For a comfortable and stable workout at home
This elliptical machine has Horizon SixStar frame that allows for a comfortable and stable workout. It’s quiet and
easy-to-use. It’s a good fit for a house workout space. If you’re not looking for a heavy-duty machine, and you are of an average built, then this is a good elliptical machine for you.
Design & Build
It has 10 resistance levels to choose from, and a 14.3 lbs flywheel. The step-up height of the machine is low and comfortable. Its stride length is 18 inches.
The console of the machine has a 5″ LCD display. There are contact grip pulse rate monitors on the machine. It is MP3 compatible, and has built-in speakers.
The dimensions of this elliptical machine after assembly are 68″ x 25″ x 64″. It has a user weight capacity of 275 lbs. The warranty on this machine is lifetime on frame, 2 years on parts, and 1 year of labor.
Features & Functionality
The stride length of the machine is 18 inches, which can be limiting for tall users.
The console gives useful information about your workout, for example time taken, distance covered, speed, calories burnt, and heart rate.
It has 10 workout programs including Manual, Constant watts, Rolling, Reverse Train, Random Calorie Goal and Weight Loss. This helps you achieve varied goals. The MP3 compatibility and speakers allow for entertainment during exercise.
Ease of Use
Low step-up height and oversized pedals make it convenient to get on and off the machines. Its weight and dimensions make it manageable to maintain and move around the house for cleaning and other purposes.
Accessories
It has built-in Sonic Surround speakers that let you plug-in your device and listen to music while you workout. It has a water bottle holder, too.
Pros
- SixStar™ Certified Frame
- Quiet and stable motor
- MP3 plug-in feature
Cons
- No wireless heart rate monitor for accurate data
- Lighter flywheel can make workout bumpy
- No cooling fan or folding option
11. ProForm 150i Elliptical
A lightweight elliptical for a full-body workout
ProForm ellipticals are our favorites. This model in particular is also quite high-tech with iFit and Google Maps
compatibility. It has a light overall structure that makes it easy to use at home. Its workout programs and heart rate monitor enable you to undertake your workout mindfully and with proper planning.
Design & Build
This machine has a steel frame and front-drive design. It has 12 adjustable resistance levels, and a 17-inch stride length. The dual, padded grips provide a full-body workout.
It’s iFit compatible, can be plugged to your iPod, and it comes with a heart rate monitor to let you plan a wholesome and effective workout. It has 12 pre-set workout apps in its console.
The user weight capacity of ProForm 150i is 250 lbs. The dimensions of the machine are 66.75L x 22.5W x 63H.
It comes with 5-year frame warranty and 90-day warranty on parts and labor.
Features & Functionality
The 17-inch stride length of the machine is quite less compared to other elliptical machines. The movement can feel like climbing rather than walking for tall users. The workout apps and adjustable resistance levels allow you to decide how rigorous you want your workout session to be.
The console is compatible with Google Maps and iFit, so that you can simulate any outdoor workout environment, monitor your exercise data, and plan your regime for effective results.
Ease of Use
It’s quite light and compact, and hence is easy to manage.
Accessories
It has iPod compatibility, which keeps you charged up with music. There is a water bottle holder on the machine. The transport wheels make it easy to move around.
Pros
- Light and easy to manage
- iFit and Google Maps compatible
- iPod compatible
Cons
- Lightness of the machine might make it a little shaky when used by heavier users
- Small stride length can be limiting for taller users
12. Body Power Elliptical Cross Trainer with Monitor
A compact machine for stamina and strength building
Body Power trainer is a very simple elliptical machine with a steel flywheel for a smooth workout. This machine has a
small footprint, and hence can be placed anywhere in your home, and it offers a full-body workout with its dual set handlebars and aerodynamic design.
Design & Build
This elliptical machine has a front-drive design, that is great for a low-impact workout. It has dual handlebars for full-body exercise sessions, and a steel flywheel that keeps the workout smooth. It has a stride length of 13 inches.
Body Power Elliptical Cross Trainer has a very sleek console which provides useful data about your workout, to manage your regime for efficiency.
It comes with a compact design and dimensions 51” L x 30” W x 69” H. The machine weighs 107 lbs. The step-up height of the machine is 8 inches, which is very convenient.
Features & Functionality
You can manage the tension of the elliptical movement with a knob, and hence control the intensity of your workout. The console displays calories burned, time taken, distance covered and speed, which helps you monitor your exercise session, and increase or decrease the intensity of it to get the best results.
As the stride length is only 13 inches, it is suitable for users with average height, or with users comfortable with a climbing simulation.
Ease of Use
It’s easy to place anywhere in the house due to its lightweight and compact design. The machine is simple to use, with useful information available on the console screen. The resistance level can also easily be adjusted with a knob.
Accessories
The transport wheels on the machine help in easy logistics around the house.
Pros
- It’s economical
- The machine is light and easy to store
- It’s easy to use
Cons
- It has a very limiting stride length of 13 inches
- The design is compact, but may lead to shakiness during the workout
- Doesn’t provide a very versatile workout, as the tension adjustment is manual
13. Fuel Fitness FE44 Elliptical
Affordable workout at home
Fuel Fitness FE44 is a very economical workout machine. It has all the essential features of an elliptical, and hence
offers you a good workout without burning a hole in your pocket. The machine has a manageable footprint, and offers a full-body, customizable workout. It is one of the best affordable elliptical machines for home.
Design & Build
This elliptical machine has a 15-lb flywheel. The electromagnetic braking system ensures a smooth resistance. Its incline can be adjusted to target different muscle groups while exercising. It has an 18-inch stride, which is good enough for a model in this price range.
It comes with a heart rate monitor for a controlled rigorousness of the workout. The console’s LCD display is 5 inches in size and is blue backlit. It offers essential stats on your exercise session. The maximum user capacity of the machine is 325 lbs.
The weight of the machine is 146 lbs.
It comes with lifetime warranty on frame, 1 year warranty on parts, and 1 year warranty on in-home labor.
Features & Functionality
You can adjust the incline to customize your workout, and achieve different goals while targeting different muscle groups. The flywheel is big enough and designed well to keep your workout smooth and low-impact. You can choose from its 20 resistance levels for an easy or rigorous workout.
The console gives workout stats such as time, distance covered, calories burnt, etc. and offers workout programs for a guided exercise session.
Ease of Use
The machine is lightweight and easy to manage and move around. The controls and features are easy-to-use. The resistance level is automated and can be adjusted with a touch, for a controlled workout.
Accessories
It has a water bottle holder that makes fluids accessible during your workout. Its 14 workout programs enable you to reach your goals in a planned manner.
Pros
- Easy on the pocket
- Easy to use and move around
- Automated resistance
- Incline adjustment possible
Cons
- Stride of 18 inches can be limiting for some users
- Its digital console features are limited
14. Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine
For a quiet and effective workout at home
Schwinn A40 elliptical machine is one of the best elliptical machines for home available at an economical price. It has a small footprint, which is ideal for home use, and it offers features like magnetic resistance levels, 7 workout
programs, heart rate monitor and a well-equipped console that allows a well-planned and low-impact workout.
Design & Build
It is equipped with a grip heart rate monitor. It has 8 levels of magnetic resistance. The flywheel of the machine is perimeter weighted for smooth performance. It has only movable handlebars. It has a stride length of 17 inches.
The dimensions of the machine are 23” W x 59” L x 64” H in. It weighs 205 lbs. The user weight capacity of the machine is 275 lbs.
This model comes with a warranty of 6 months on parts and electric, 30 days on wear parts and 2 years on the frame.
Features & Functionality
The grip heart rate monitor lets you manage your cardio workout rate as per your requirement. You can switch between 8 levels of resistances for different levels of difficulty. The resistance is magnetic, offering a smooth switch from one level to another. The movable handlebars provide a full-body workout, but the lack of stationary handlebars leads to less stability.
It has only 7 workout programs, but you can create your own exercise plans using its design features, to reach your goals. The console display gives you stats on the speed of your workout, time taken, distance covered, heart rate, RPM, speed, and calories burnt.
Ease of Use
It’s easy to assemble. The machine is fairly easy to use, with clear stats given on the console. The machine is light, and can be easily moved around for cleaning or other purposes.
Accessories
Water bottle holder lets you keep your aqua in reach during workouts. The 2-speed fan in the machine provides a comfortable session. It has a reading rack to fit in a book or tablet for entertainment during the workout.
Pros
- Economical model
- Automated, magnetic resistance adjustment
Cons
- Warranty plan is not very attractive
- Very basic features
- Limited workout programs
- The pedals lack proper cushioning
15. Kettler Home Exercise/Fitness Equipment: UNIX M Elliptical Trainer
For an intuitive and smart workout and excellent performance
Kettler Unix M elliptical trainer is a stable machine with its big flywheel. The machine has basic workout features and dual heart rate monitors to offer you a well-tracked workout. You can use its pre-set workout programs for a
professionally-planned exercise regime.
Design & Build
It has a strong steel frame and rear-drive design. Its flywheel weighs 40 pounds. It has a 16-inch stride.
The handlebar grips have pulse rate monitors, and the machine also has wired pulse sensors. The display gives essential stats of your workout.
The user weight capacity of the trainer is 330 lbs.
Kettler’s trainer has compact dimensions, i.e. 25 x 55 x 36 in. The weight of the machine is 205 lbs.
Kettler Home exercise machine has a lifetime frame warranty, one-year in-home warranty for labor, and three-year in-home warranty for all the other parts.
Features & Functionality
The heavy-weight flywheel of 40 lbs offers a stable workout. You can set your ideal heart rate zone, and with the pulse rate monitor, manage the intensity of your workout. The resistance levels can be set from 1 to 10 for different intensity of workouts.
The console’s LCD display provides information like speed of your workout, RPM, distance covered, time, energy consumption, and pulse rate. You can use this information to plan your workout in an efficient manner.
Ease of Use
It’s easy-to-use, and maintain. The display options are simple to follow, and the interface of the console is very user-friendly
Accessories
It has 8 workout programs that help you customize your workout. It has earlobe clips that monitor your heart rate using infrared.
Pros
- The 40-pound flywheel provides a stable workout
- It’s easy to use
Cons
- The 16-inch stride length can be limiting for tall users
