The 11 Best Home Ellipticals of 2022
If you want to get moving but the weather isn’t conducive to running and you don’t feel like doing a high-intensity interval training session, an elliptical machine is a fantastic alternative. According to certified personal trainer Morgan Coleman, “The elliptical can give you a full-body workout since you get resistance from the pedals at your feet and the handles you push with your arms,” adding that this type of low-impact cardio machine is a good option for those who have issues with their joints. An elliptical is a good option for those who have joint issues.
If you’re sick of making the trip to the gym and waiting around for an open elliptical machine, purchasing a model that you can use in the comfort of your own home makes it simple to get in your daily cardio. When you are searching around for a fitness tracker, you should think about the different metrics you want it to track (such as calories, distance, and strides), as well as the maximum weight it can hold and the overall dimensions, to make sure it will fit in the area you have available.
It can be difficult to locate the device that is perfectly suited to your requirements, which is why we combed the internet, looked through a large number of reviews, and consulted Coleman for her professional advice in order to build a list of the best choices now available. You will be able to obtain a low-impact but effective cardio workout in the convenience of your own home by using our recommendations.
Keep reading to find out which elliptical trainers are the most cost-effective for use in the house.
Our Absolute Favorites
Overall, the Schwinn Compact Elliptical Machine is the Winner.
What We Like
- Compatible with a wide variety of apps
- Audiophile loudspeakers
- A port for charging USB devices
- Ergonomic design
What We Don’t Like
- Pricey
Who else endorses this product? Runner’s World chose the Schwinn Compact Elliptical Machine as their top pick as well.
What do buyers say? Over 2,300 customers on Amazon gave this product an average rating of at least 4 stars in their reviews.
With the Schwinn 470, you truly can’t make a mistake of any kind. Coleman claims that this is one of the greatest solutions for those who are limited in space, and we have to agree with them given that its dimensions are only 28 by 63 by 70 inches. However, despite its space-saving compact design, this elliptical trainer is packed with of useful workout options. It has a backlit LCD panel that monitors 13 fitness stats for up to 12 users, 25 resistance levels, 29 training programs, two fitness tests, and it can accommodate a maximum of 12 individuals (just in case you have a Cheaper By the Dozen situation).
In addition to having Bluetooth connectivity, the Schwinn 470 is compatible with a number of other fitness tracking applications, such as Explore the World, MapMyRun, MyFitnessPal, GoogleFit, and Apple Health. In addition, there is a connector for charging devices via a USB cable, built-in acoustic chamber speakers, a spot for holding your phone, and a holder for your water bottle. In addition, while you’re working up a sweat, the foot motion technology and ergonomic handlebars will keep you comfortable and in the correct position.
Weight Capacity: 300 Pounds | Dimensions: 28 x 63 x 70 Inches | Stats Offered: Calories, Number of Workouts, Progress, Heart Rate, Time, Speed, Distance | Warranty: 10 Years for Frame, 2 Years for Parts Weight Capacity: 300 Pounds Dimensions: 28 x 63 x 70 Inches Weight Capacity: 300 Pounds Dimensions: 28 x
The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical is the Best Budget Option.
What We Like
- Budget-friendly
- Digital display
- Pulse sensors
What It Is That We Do Not Like
- Unfavorable load bearing capacity
If you are not yet prepared to make a significant financial commitment to a high-end model, the SF-E905 Cross Trainer is an excellent option to consider. This elliptical trainer is easy on the wallet and impressively space-saving, measuring only 28 by 17 by 57 inches. It is equipped with a digital monitor, eight different resistance levels, pulse sensors, foot pedals that do not slip, and wheels for convenient transportation and storage.
You can trust on this elliptical to provide a workout that will get your heart rate up and burn enough calories, even though it does not have all of the bells and whistles that its more expensive competitors have.
Weight Capacity: 220 Pounds | Dimensions: 28 x 17 x 57 Inches | Stats Offered: Time, Speed, Distance, Calories, Heart Rate | Warranty: 3 Years for Frame, 180 Days for Parts Weight Capacity: 220 Pounds Dimensions: 28 x 17 x 57 Inches Weight Capacity: 220 Pound
Best Splurge: NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer
What We Like
- Touchscreen in smart high definition
- Capability to connect through Bluetooth
- On-demand workouts
What It Is That We Do Not Like
- Expensive
- Requires a membership fee each month
Coleman claims that NordicTrack manufactures a very high-tech and comfy elliptical machine that is suitable for use in a home gym. The FS14i FreeStride Trainer comes equipped with a responsive touchscreen measuring 14 inches and a library of on-demand programs that is always being added to. You also have access to some of the best personal trainers around, ensuring that your workouts are never dull.
We enjoy that you may add up to four user profiles, despite the fact that this premium computer demands a monthly membership fee to utilize it. In addition to that, it has Bluetooth connectivity, two speakers that are digitally amplified, and magnetic resistance for almost completely silent operation (a pro if you like your neighbors).
Weight Capacity: 375 Pounds | Dimensions: 59 x 30 x 74 Inches | Stats Offered: Calories, Activity, Heart Rate, Distance, Speed, Strides, Goals | Warranty: 10 Years for Frame, Two Years for Parts Weight Capacity: 375 Pounds Dimensions: 59 x 30 x 74 Inches Weight Capacity: 375 Pounds Weight Dimensions
Best Mid-Range: Body-Solid Best Fitness Cross-Trainer Elliptical Machine Model BFCT1
What We Like
- At a price that is not excessive
- LED screen
- Pulse sensors
What It Is That We Do Not Like
- Unfavorable load bearing capacity
The Best Fitness BFCT1 is an excellent choice for those looking for a product in the middle price bracket. This elliptical cross-trainer has a small LED screen, huge foot pedals, transport wheels, and synchronized arms that work your core and upper body so that you get a complete workout.
You have the option of selecting from eight different degrees of resistance, and it keeps track of the time, speed, calories, and distance you cover. In addition, the handles come equipped with pulse sensors so that you can keep an eye on your heart rate at all times.
Weight Capacity: 225 Pounds | Dimensions: 45 x 26 x 66 Inches | Stats Offered: Time, Distance, Speed, Calories, Heart Rate | Warranty: Five Years for Frame, One Year for Parts and Electronics Dimensions: 45 x 26 x 66 Inches Weight Capacity: 225 Pounds Dimensions: 45 x 26 x
Elliptical Trainer with Adjustable Stride and Incline that Comes Standard on the ProForm Carbon EL
What We Like
- At a price that is not excessive
- LED screen
- Pulse sensors
What It Is That We Do Not Like
- Unfavorable load bearing capacity
The Best Fitness BFCT1 is an excellent choice for those looking for a product in the middle price bracket. This elliptical cross-trainer has a small LED screen, huge foot pedals, transport wheels, and synchronized arms that work your core and upper body so that you get a complete workout.
You have the option of selecting from eight different degrees of resistance, and it keeps track of the time, speed, calories, and distance you cover. In addition, the handles come equipped with pulse sensors so that you can keep an eye on your heart rate at all times.
Weight Capacity: 225 Pounds | Dimensions: 45 x 26 x 66 Inches | Stats Offered: Time, Distance, Speed, Calories, Heart Rate | Warranty: Five Years for Frame, One Year for Parts and Electronics Dimensions: 45 x 26 x 66 Inches Weight Capacity: 225 Pounds Dimensions: 45 x 26 x
Elliptical Trainer with Adjustable Stride and Incline that Comes Standard on the ProForm Carbon EL
What We Like
- Compact
- Tablet holder
- There is a chest strap available.
What It Is That We Do Not Like
- Pricey
The Bowflex M3 Max Trainer is your best bet if you only have a small amount of space available for your workout space. It may only be 47 inches by 23 inches by 27 inches, but despite its diminutive size, it packs a lot of powerful features.
This elliptical trainer comes equipped with a digital monitor, an intuitive control panel that allows you to choose from eight different degrees of resistance and a variety of different workout programs, a holder for your water bottle, and a spot for your tablet computer. In addition to that, it provides a chest strap that may be used to monitor your heart rate.
Weight Capacity: Three Hundred Pounds | Dimensions: 47 by 23 by 27 Inches | Stats Offered: Calories, Speed, Distance, Heart Rate | Warranty: One Year
The Sole E35 Elliptical is the Most Comfortable Option
What We Like Foot pedals facilitate a natural running motion, which is a pro.
- Incline power trainer
- Quiet operation
What It Is That We Do Not Like
- Expensive
The foot pedals of the Sole E35 were developed by physical therapists to foster a running motion that is more natural, and the treadmill was designed with your comfort in mind. According to the manufacturer, the design relieves pressure from your knees, hips, and ankles so that you may walk more comfortably.
This elliptical machine has a flywheel that weighs 25 pounds, which helps to ensure a quiet and smooth ride in addition to the comfortable workout it provides. Because of the power incline, you can target lower-body muscles that other machines don’t reach, and there are various pre-loaded programs that are designed to accommodate people of all different fitness levels.
Weight Capacity: 375 Pounds | Dimensions: 27 x 58 x 83 Inches | Statistics Provided: Calories | Warranty: Two Years on the Frame, Five Years on the Electronics, and a Lifetime on the Frame
Nautilus E618 Elliptical is the Best App-Based Workout Machine.
What We Like
- Connects to apps through Bluetooth for seamless synchronization
- Acceleration with no hiccups
- Integrated resistance controls are built into the Padded Handlebars
What It Is That We Do Not Like
- Pricey
The Nautilus E618 is another watch that has won over our hearts. Because it is Bluetooth-enabled and syncs with the free Explore the World mobile app, you can use it to navigate 27 itineraries in 19 different destinations all over the world.
In addition, this elliptical cross trainer features a tilting console with two backlit screens, as well as a high-inertia motor system that accelerates smoothly thanks to a weighted flywheel. One of the features that sets this product apart from others is the adjustable and padded handlebars that are integrated with resistance controls. This allows you to customize your upper-body training.
Weight Capacity: 350 Pounds | Dimensions: 73 inches by 27 inches by 67 inches | Stats Offered: Calories, Speed, Time, and Heart Rate | Warranty: Five Years
The NiceDay Elliptical Trainer Has the Lowest Noise Level.
What We Like
- At a price that is not excessive
- Able to support a lot of weight
- Warranty good for life
What It Is That We Do Not Like
- A screen of modest size
Choose the NiceDay Elliptical if you want to get in a workout very early in the morning or very late at night without disturbing anyone else who might be sleeping. It was not an easy task, but thanks to the ultra-quiet magnetic drive system, practically all of the noise that was previously produced by the mechanics has been eradicated.
This cross-trainer includes a 16-pound flywheel and 16 different levels of resistance, and it is affordably priced. In addition, we value the fact that it has a weight capability of 400 pounds and an almost unheard-of lifetime warranty.
Weight Capacity: 400 Pounds | Dimensions: 62 inches by 48 inches by 25 inches | Stats Offered: Time, Speed, Distance, Calories, and Heart Rate | Warranty: Lifetime
The Horizon Fitness EX59 Elliptical is the Best Choice for Rooms with Low Ceilings
What We Like
- Down on the pedals
- Speakers compatible with Bluetooth technology
- USB port with high-speed charging
What It Is That We Do Not Like
- Walking in halting steps
Are you cramped for vertical space? Choose the EX59 Elliptical from Horizon Fitness because it has pedals that are positioned lower than is typical. This allows for more headroom, which is ideal for taller athletes and people who have low ceilings.
The overlapping stride rotation makes for pleasant movements, and you can choose from one of ten different levels of magnetic resistance to either ramp up or dial back the intensity of your workouts. In addition, this elliptical trainer offers Bluetooth speakers, a tablet rack, a USB connector with a high-speed charging capability, and a holder for water bottles.
Weight Capacity: 300 Pounds | Dimensions: 74 inches by 25 inches by 65 inches | Stats Offered: Time, Calories, Distance, and Weight Loss | Warranty: Lifetime for Frame, One Year for Parts Weight Capacity: 300 Pounds Dimensions: 74 inches by 25 inches by 65 inches Weight Capacity: 300 Pounds
Best Under-Desk: Cubii JR1 Under-Desk Elliptical
What We Like
- Compact
- Comes with its own anti-slip pad
- Quiet operation
What It Is That We Do Not Like
- Unfavorable load bearing capacity
You can get your steps in while attending Zoom meetings and typing emails at the same time with the help of the Cubii JR1. The dimensions of this under-desk elliptical machine are just 23 inches by 18 inches by 10 inches, and it includes wheel stoppers, a non-slip pad, and batteries for the LCD display.
While the screen keeps track of the calories you burn, the time, and the distance you travel, the innovative design ensures that the device operates in complete silence. Even while membership isn’t necessary, purchasing a subscription to the Cubii Studio+ app will allow you to get even more out of your workouts.
Weight Capacity: 250 Pounds | Dimensions: 23 Inches by 18 Inches by 10 Inches | Stats Provided: Calories, Strides, and Distance | Warranty: One Year
Final Verdict
We propose the Schwinn Fitness 470, which is an elliptical machine that is approved by trainers and has a lot of features while taking up a relatively tiny footprint. On the other hand, the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E905 is a great option for those who are shopping on a limited budget. And for those who are willing to splurge on a premium piece of exercise equipment, we recommend the NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride.
What to Search for in an Elliptical Machine for the Home
Size
When shopping for an elliptical machine, bear in mind that it will require a good amount of space and that the pedals will need room to perform full rotations. Because of this, you should keep the size of the machine (as well as the size of the area in which you intend to place it) in mind.
Intensity
The intensity of an elliptical trainer can be adjusted, so it is important for you to make sure that the machine is easy for you to use on the lowest setting, but that the higher settings are difficult enough to give you opportunity to improve.
Ergonomics
The ease with which you can operate your elliptical machine is of the utmost importance. When using an elliptical machine, you want to make sure that you can easily maintain an upright stance and that you can comfortably grip the moving hand grips. As you go along the course of the elliptical machine, your feet should have the sensation that they are secure, and the moving parts of the machine shouldn’t get in the way of your arms or legs.
FAQ
- What are the advantages of exercising on an elliptical machine at home?
Coleman says that an elliptical is a piece of stationary cardiovascular equipment. This means that it engages your respiratory system, which in turn causes you to break out in a sweat and burns calories in the most efficient manner possible. It also means that it gets your heart pounding. 4
In addition, according to Coleman’s comments to Byrdie, “Ellipticals can be extremely useful to anyone who has joint concerns or who desires a low-impact cardio experience, as they are non-weight-bearing.”
- What is the proper way to operate an elliptical machine at home?
To begin, position yourself so that you are facing the screen and the control panel by stepping onto the pedals. The monitor should turn on after you begin pedaling your legs forward in circular patterns (akin to riding a bike, but while standing). This action mimics the motion of a bike’s pedals. The next step is to select the quick-start option, after which you can select a pre-programmed workout or tailor the intensity by adjusting the inclination and the resistance.
According to Coleman, the correct way to use exercise equipment is to “stay upright while you use the machine.” This will force you to maintain your core engaged. When you are finished, check that it has totally come to a halt before leaving the vehicle.
- Are home ellipticals safe?
The risk of harm is reduced to a minimum in today’s elliptical machines built for home use.
5 As was just discussed, treadmills might not be the best choice for people who have joint problems, but these bikes might be.
In light of this, it is essential to perform each exercise in the correct manner, to check that the apparatus has come to a complete halt before getting off of it, and to consult a qualified medical professional before beginning any new form of physical activity. As is the case with any piece of mechanical exercise equipment, you should ensure that there are no children in the room while the machine is in operation. This will avoid the youngsters from becoming pinched or trapped within the moving parts of the machine.