Elliptical machines give you a full-body workout without the impact of running or jogging. These machines combine stair climbing, walking, and cross-country skiing movements for effective cardiovascular exercise.
Many people choose ellipticals because they work both upper and lower body muscles. They are gentler on the joints than treadmills or outdoor running.
Ellipticals are especially helpful for those recovering from injuries or people with joint pain. You can burn calories and improve fitness with minimal stress on knees, hips, and ankles.
Most models offer adjustable resistance levels and workout programs. This keeps exercise routines varied and challenging.
When you shop for an elliptical machine, focus on stride length, resistance levels, and build quality. Stride length affects comfort and should match your natural walking stride.
Resistance options determine how challenging your workouts can be. Build quality impacts stability, noise level, and how long the machine lasts.
We tested fifteen popular elliptical machines. We looked for the smoothest ride, sturdiest construction, and best overall value for home workouts.
Best Elliptical Machines
We researched and tested many elliptical machines to bring you this list of top options. Our picks include models for different budgets, space needs, and fitness goals.
All are designed to provide an effective low-impact cardio workout at home.
Niceday Elliptical Trainer
The Niceday Elliptical has gym-quality construction and runs very quietly. It offers great value for home fitness fans.
Pros
- Very quiet magnetic drive system
- Sturdy 100-pound frame supports up to 400 pounds
- Quick 20-minute assembly with 90% pre-assembled parts
Cons
- Basic digital display
- Takes up significant floor space
- Some users report electronic issues
We tested the Niceday Elliptical in our home gym for several weeks. The first thing we noticed was how quiet it runs.
The magnetic drive system is practically silent. We could watch TV at normal volume while working out.
The build quality is impressive. At 100 pounds, this machine feels solid and stable even during intense workouts.
The 15.5-inch stride length worked well for our team members of different heights. The motion feels natural and smooth thanks to the 16-pound flywheel.
You can easily adjust resistance with 16 levels to choose from. The lower settings are perfect for warming up, while the highest levels provide a challenging workout.
The machine tracks basic stats like time, distance, and calories. We wished the display was more advanced.
Assembly was easy. It arrived mostly put together, and we had it running in about 20 minutes.
The included tools worked well, and the instructions were clear.
pooboo Elliptical Machine
This home elliptical stands out for its sturdy build, easy assembly, and a range of resistance levels for all fitness levels.
Pros
- Quick 30-minute assembly with 80% pre-assembled parts
- Strong 350-pound weight capacity with stable frame
- Ultra-quiet magnetic resistance system (20dB)
Cons
- Basic digital display
- App connectivity can be unreliable
- Takes up significant space even when folded
The machine arrived mostly assembled. We spent about 25 minutes finishing the setup with the clear instruction manual.
The frame feels solid, with no wobbling or creaking during workouts. This is impressive for a home machine in this price range.
The motion feels smooth and natural. The 15.5-inch stride length works for most people, though very tall users might feel restricted.
The pedals grip well and support your feet. The magnetic resistance system is very quiet, so you can watch TV at normal volume while exercising.
Switching between the 16 resistance levels is simple with the turn knob. Lower settings are gentle for beginners or recovery, while higher settings provide a serious challenge.
The LCD monitor tracks basics like time, distance, and calories. It’s not as advanced as some gym equipment.
The foldable design helps save space, though it still needs a dedicated area.
YOSUDA Pro Cardio Climber
The YOSUDA Pro Cardio Climber provides full-body workouts in a compact frame. It’s a good choice for those who want versatility and need to save space.
Pros
- 3-in-1 design combines elliptical, stepper, and treadmill benefits
- Extremely quiet magnetic system (only 26 dB)
- Compact footprint saves 20% more space than similar machines
Cons
- Assembly takes about 1-2 hours
- Basic display
- Limited stride length for very tall users
We tested the YOSUDA Pro Cardio Climber for several weeks. This machine packs a lot of features into a small package.
The 45° climbing motion with traditional elliptical movement gives a more intense workout than standard ellipticals.
The solid construction stands out. With a 300-pound weight capacity and thick frame tubes, the machine feels stable even during intense sessions.
We never noticed wobbling or movement, which is important for safety.
You can adjust resistance smoothly with 16 levels. The 18-pound flywheel provides consistent, natural motion.
This machine runs quietly, so you can watch TV or listen to music at normal volume.
For small spaces, this machine is a great solution. At just 38 x 21 x 62 inches, it fits in corners where larger ellipticals won’t.
The front rollers make it easy to move when needed.
Putnen Under Desk Elliptical
This compact under-desk elliptical is great for low-impact exercise while seated.
Pros
- Silent operation for home or office use
- Multiple modes with 12 resistance levels
- Remote control for easy adjustments
Cons
- Batteries for remote sold separately
- May slide on smooth floors during vigorous use
- LCD display can be hard to read in bright light
We tested the Putnen Under Desk Elliptical for several weeks. It fit easily into our daily routines.
The machine arrived fully assembled. You just plug it in and start exercising.
The compact design (16.3″ x 12.4″ x 9.6″) makes storage easy. We moved it between our desk and living room without trouble.
The orange color is fun, though more color options would be nice.
The 12 resistance levels let you choose your workout intensity. Lower settings are good for gentle movement, while higher levels give you a real challenge.
The auto programs (P1-P3) are useful when you don’t want to adjust settings yourself.
Operation is nearly silent. We used it during Zoom calls without anyone noticing.
The remote control is handy—no need to bend down to change settings. The 500-pound weight capacity suits almost any user.
For seniors or those recovering from injuries, this device offers gentle movement without joint strain.
We found the motion path comfortable even during long sessions. Blood circulation improved after just a week of regular use.
Niceday Magnetic Elliptical
The Niceday Elliptical stands out for its sturdy construction, smooth operation, and user-friendly features.
Pros
- Whisper-quiet magnetic resistance system
- Quick 20-minute assembly with 90% pre-assembled parts
- Impressive 400-pound weight capacity
Cons
- Basic digital display
- Takes up significant floor space
- Limited built-in workout programs
We tested the Niceday Elliptical in our home gym for several weeks. Its performance impressed us.
The 15.5-inch stride length feels natural and comfortable, even for taller users. The solid 90-pound frame keeps the machine stable during intense workouts.
The magnetic resistance system is smooth and quiet. We switched between the 16 resistance levels easily, and the machine stayed whisper-quiet.
Even in an apartment, we had no complaints about noise or vibrations.
Assembly was simple. Most parts came pre-assembled, and we had it running in about 20 minutes.
The transport wheels made moving it easy. The digital monitor tracks essential metrics like time, distance, and heart rate.
For the price, this elliptical delivers professional-quality performance.
Buying Guide
When you shop for an elliptical machine, consider several key factors to find the right equipment for your needs.
Space Requirements
Before you buy, measure your available space. Ellipticals come in different sizes, and you need room for the machine and for comfortable movement.
Type | Typical Dimensions | Best For |
---|---|---|
Compact | 4′ x 2.5′ | Small apartments, limited space |
Standard | 6′ x 2.5′ | Home gyms, dedicated workout areas |
Commercial | 7′ x 3′ | Large spaces, serious users |
Budget Considerations
Elliptical machines come in a wide price range. Set a budget before shopping to narrow your options.
- Entry-level: $300-$800
- Mid-range: $800-$1,500
- Premium: $1,500-$3,000+
Key Features to Evaluate
Look for these important features when comparing elliptical machines:
Stride Length: 18-20 inches works for most users. Taller people may need 20+ inches for comfort.
Resistance Levels: More options mean greater workout variety and room to progress.
Weight Capacity: Pick a machine rated for at least 50 pounds more than your weight for stability and durability.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The best elliptical should feel natural to use. Try out machines when possible to check for comfort.
Pedal Spacing: Narrow pedals support a more natural stride and reduce hip strain.
Adjustability: Choose machines with customizable features like incline settings and movable handlebars. These features let you target different muscle groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section answers common questions about elliptical machines. Use this information to help you choose the right model for your fitness goals.
What are the top-rated elliptical machines for home fitness in 2025?
NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 leads the market with its 14-inch touchscreen and auto-adjusting resistance. It offers strong value at $1,699.
Bowflex Max Trainer M9 combines elliptical and stair-stepper functions for intense workouts. Many users burn more calories in less time using its HIIT programs.
Sole E95 is popular for its durability and smooth operation. Its heavy 27-pound flywheel creates a natural stride and reduces joint impact.
How do elliptical machines help in losing belly fat?
Ellipticals burn calories through full-body workouts that engage many muscle groups. A 30-minute session can burn between 270 and 400 calories, depending on intensity.
Using proper form activates core muscles. Stand upright and avoid leaning on the handlebars to engage your abs.
For better belly fat loss, try interval training on your elliptical. Alternate between high-intensity bursts and recovery periods for improved results.
Which ellipticals are best suited for seniors looking to stay active?
Schwinn 470 offers excellent stability with a low step-on height of 6 inches. Its cushioned footplates reduce joint impact.
Precor EFX 222 includes adjustable incline options and moving handlebars. Seniors can use or ignore the handlebars based on their balance needs.
Models with heart rate monitoring help older adults track their workouts. Nautilus E618 includes this feature and 25 resistance levels for gradual progress.
What are the best compact ellipticals for small space living?
ProForm Carbon HIIT H7 has a vertical design and uses just 4 square feet of floor space. It suits apartments and still provides a tough workout.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 measures only 28 inches long and offers 16 resistance levels. Its transport wheels make storage easy.
For very small spaces, under-desk ellipticals like the Cubii JR2 offer seated options. These models increase daily activity in tight quarters.
Can you compare Bowflex and Sole ellipticals in terms of effectiveness and features?
Bowflex models feature strong technology integration with the JRNY app and adaptive workouts. The Max Trainer series burns more calories but usually costs $200-$300 more than similar Sole models.
Sole ellipticals offer better build quality with heavier flywheels, usually 20-30 pounds, compared to Bowflex’s 15-25 pounds. This results in smoother motion for longer sessions.
Warranty coverage also differs. Sole offers lifetime frame warranties, while Bowflex covers frames for 15 years and parts for 3-5 years.
What features should I look for when choosing a high-end elliptical machine?
Choose a stride length that matches your height. Users over 5’7″ should look for at least a 20-inch stride.
Select machines with adjustable stride options. This feature adds flexibility for multiple users in one household.
Pick models with advanced resistance systems. Electromagnetic eddy current brakes offer quieter operation and more precise control.
Consider ellipticals with touchscreen displays. Streaming capabilities like Netflix, YouTube, or fitness apps can help keep you motivated.