11 Best Expert-Approved Elliptical Machines For Home (2024)
Get your fitness game back on track by bringing home these versatile machines.
Ashton Ferrazzo is a fitness professional and podcaster with over 15 years of experience. He is also the owner of Freedom Fitness Equipment. He has in-depth knowledge of fitness and fitness equipment and provides expert fitness advice on different types of gym equipment and lifting gear.
Read full bio of Ashton Ferrazzo
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 3 yearsRajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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If you have been looking for the best elliptical machines for your home, you’ve reached the right place. We have everything you need to know about choosing the perfect one for yourself. Instead of getting all the bulky gym equipment set at your home, you can invest in elliptical machines. They help you do low-impact cardio and shed excess fat from your arms and legs while keeping a trim waistline. They also offer full-body workouts and are perfect for your regular exercise fitness gear, supporting your overall personal transformation goals. “Some ellipticals allow for purely lower body movements, while some incorporate handles allowing you to move both your arms and your legs at the same time, for a full body workout. Pick the one that suits your fitness needs,” advises Ashton Ferrazzo, a Fitness Professional. Here is a list of the 11 best elliptical machines with amazing reviews to choose from, specially taken for their quality and durability.
In This Article
11 Best Fitness Expert-Approved Elliptical Machines (2024) + Buying Guide
1. Best Dual-Mode LED Display:Bowflex Max Trainer M8
Machine Weight: 148 lbs, Resistance Settings: Up to 20 levels, Stride Length: N/A, Maximum User Weight: 300 lbs
The Bowflex Max Trainer M8 uses modernized personalized coaching facility with an enhanced dual-mode LED/LCD display. It has commercial grade handles with aero bar grips. The machine comes with adjustments for burn rate and resistance levels, sports performance racing pedals, seven preset guided workout programs, along with two additional customized programs, and 20 resistance levels. The Bowflex Max Trainer combines 4-minute workouts (to burn 30 calories per minute) with exercises to strengthen the whole body, core muscles, and glutes. The low-impact workout with an elliptical trainer and the calorie burner stepper helps increase the number of calories burnt.
The larger repositioned console, enhanced color scheme, unique burn rate display, and Bluetooth-compatible heart rate monitor keeps you motivated. These features also help you track your stats and workout progress. The Bowflex JRNY personalized coaching system is your full-time guide to train and motivate you towards a long-term goal. The system adjusts to your needs as you maximize your calorie burn in every workout. This inbuilt app recognizes the milestones you have reached with a detailed analysis. The JRNY app is loaded with online training programs and educational videos that show you the benefits of each workout in detail. Check out this review featuring the tester’s experience for a detailed understanding about the product.
- Aligned with the new Bowflex Max Intelligence platform
- Inbuilt programs
- Integrated with JRNY technology
- Enhanced dual mode LED/LCD display
- Magnetic media rack holds smartphone/tablet
- Repositioned console
- USB charging port
- Unique burn rate display
- Connectivity for up to 4 individual users
- Heart rate monitor
- Multi-grip dynamic handles
- 20 resistance levels
- Compact foldable size allows to be stored everywhere
- Easy to assemble
- JRNY needs subscription.
- Not suitable for short people.
- Poor customer support
"The machine is robust and has proven itself over three years. Assembly was a breeze - I managed all by myself. It comes with a virtual coach and varied workouts, it's a purchase I don't regret."
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 2,104 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
2. Best For Long Workouts: Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine
Machine Weight: 164 lbs, Resistance Settings: 25 levels, Stride Length: 20” Precision Path Stride, Maximum User Weight: 300 lbs
Explore the world at home, enjoy and burn some calories, increase your body strength, stamina, and lose weight with the Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine. It is one of the top-rated elliptical machines with a premium quality build, fluid motion, and innovative features. With the enhanced Bluetooth technology, track your time, distance, calorie goals, and analyze your workout statistics by connecting with the popular app-based tools like Explore the World, MyFitnesspal, UA record, etc. Enjoy 29 preset workout programs in the blue backlit LCD window that consists of 12 profile, 9 heart rate control, 4 custom, 2 fitness tests, and 1 quick-start. You can easily synchronize your workout with the Run Social app and run through 19 locations with 27 routes, through nature and alongside people from all over the world for a real-time experience.
The Schwinn 470 has the ability to make resistance and incline adjustments on the fly. It provides 5 quick keys at your fingertips each for resistance and incline. It has a 10-degree motorized ramp range with quick keys, and 25 levels of Eddy Current Magnetic resistance with 20” of maximum stride length. Its ergonomically placed static handlebars with grip heart rate give you the accurate data with the Telemetry heart rate programs. The larger footplates allow you to place your feet comfortably, and the cushion padding makes long workouts easier. This video review including the reviewer’s experience will help you understand more about the weight loss product.
- Enabled with Telemetry heart rate program
- Large footplates for a comfortable workout
- Inbuilt workout programs
- Built-in USB charging port
- 4 user capability for multiple user set-up
- Built-in 3 speed fans for cooling
- Oversized center mounted water bottle holder
- Attached with transport wheels
- 2 integrated levelers
- Sealed acoustic chamber speakers for a quality sound
- Easy to assemble
- 2 blacklist LCD windows
- Affordable price
- Stride length suitable only for those with a medium height.
- Short length elliptical path
- Noisy pedal paths
- Poor customer service
"I really cherish my compact exercise machine for quick workouts. It's light yet might require a mat underneath it on slippery floors. It's wonderfully designed for my small space offering an intense workout. Some extra grease may be needed for the joints. Quiet operation with excellent functions is a bonus. It's a worthy investment."
3. Best Anti-Slip Foot Platform:Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine
Machine Weight: 68 lbs, Resistance Settings: 8 levels, Stride Length: 11”, Maximum User Weight: 220 lbs
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 is a budget-friendly, lightweight, and easy-to-transport elliptical machine. It is meant for a low-impact cardiovascular training. It builds stamina and burns calories while losing weight. The large anti-slip foot platform with a soft cushion on the pedals provides a smooth upper and lower body workout without a burden on knees, joints, and muscles. The digital monitor, the slip-resistant handlebar, and the compact 11” stride length make workout easy while tracking your time, speed, distance, pulse rate, and calorie burn. With a simple adjustment of magnetic resistance with a micro-tension controller button, you can easily change your resistance level up to 8% and challenge your workout and build more stamina and endurance. The heart rate sensor on the stationary bar helps maintain and monitor your target heart rate.
Investing in the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 elliptical machine can be a great step towards improving your cardiovascular health. Enjoy the convenience of exercising from the comfort of your home while reaping the benefits of low-impact cardio training.
- Lightweight
- Transport wheel
- Magnetic tension system
- Built-in floor stabilizer to prevent tripping, rocking, and slipping
- Large, textured, anti-slip foot platform
- Digital monitor with pulse rate analyzer
- Onboard stabilizer
- Easy and compact fold
- Easy arrangement for home cardio
- Basic design
- No holder for phone or tablet.
- Not suitable for taller individuals.
- No noise control technology.
"This product is a space-saver and definitely quieter than most. It’s a solid, mostly stable machine that's easy to move and needs no electrical power."
Bowflex Max Trainer M8 Best Dual-Mode LED Display | Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine Best For Long Workouts | Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine Best Anti-Slip Foot Platform | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 148 Pounds | - | 60.8 Pounds |
| Material | Metal | Alloy Steel | Alloy Steel |
| Dimensions | 30.79"D x 47.83"W x 65.2"H | 28.2"D x 63.2"W x 70.1"H | 17"D x 57"W x 28"H |
| Color | Black | Black | Gray, White |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 2,104 | 2,437 | 16,370 |
| Price | $1899.0 | $1099.0 | $163.21 |
4. Best Multi-Functional Console:Body Rider Fan Elliptical Machine
Machine Weight: 58 lbs, Resistance Settings: 8 levels, Stride Length: N/A, Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs
If you want a slim waistline and toned arms and legs at home, the Body Rider Fan Elliptical Machine can help. It is a super-compact and affordable elliptical machine with motion handlebars to tone your upper and lower body without adding burden on your joints, muscles, and tendons. The multi-functional console-level monitor shows time, speed, distance, and calories burnt per session. The workout resistance is adjusted to level 8 via an easily operated knob that increases or decreases the friction of the belt on the fan wheel. The Body Rider Elliptical Trainer also comes with an instructional video that helps clarify the best use of the machine. The chain-driven fan resistance allows for a smooth and quiet operation of the machine. Click on the video to find an honest and in-depth review along with some helpful user insights relating to the Body Rider Fan Elliptical Machine.
- Slim compact design
- Multi-functional console
- Affordable
- Easily operated knob for resistance adjustment
- Quiet and smooth operation
- Strong-grip handlebars with a smooth motion
- Heart rate monitor
- Includes a video workout guide
- Very basic design.
- Stiff striding pedals
- No separate phone or tablet holder.
- No strong cushion on the pedals.
- No Bluetooth connectivity.
"This workout machine is a dependable choice for cardio at home. The assembly is a bit confusing but the stride is compact and sturdy. It's not noisy, and a squeak here and there is easily fixed. It's been effective for my fitness goals for a while now."
Remember5. Best For Resistance Training: Body Power Patented 2-in-1 Elliptical Machine & Stair Stepper Trainer
Machine Weight: 96 lbs, Resistance Settings: 8 levels, Stride Length: 18 Inches, Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs
The Body Power Patented 2-in-1 Elliptical Machine & Stair Stepper Trainer is ideal equipment for a heavy burnout session. The slightly curved crank technology helps in the smooth operation of the machine with efficient motion, so you can use the equipment to its fullest potential. The ergonomic crank helps in properly adjusting the resistance levels, and the LCD screen helps keep track of your daily activities. The machine comes with a compact design, 2-in-1 motion, transport rollers, and many more features, which help in efficient home workout. It is designed and tested for an average weight capacity of 250 lbs.
- Exclusive curve-crank technology
- 8-level of resistance control
- Compact design
- 2-in-1 HIIT trainer
- Adjustable resistance levels
- Efficient LCD screen
- None
"The machine is exceptionally quiet. Ideal for TV watching while exercising. It's a great combination of elliptical and stepper workouts. Overall, it is a good quality machine and now an integral part of my cardio routine."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 1,340 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
6. BestBest Heavy-Duty Build: XtremepowerUS Dual Action Elliptical Fan Bike
Machine Weight: 58 lbs, Maximum User Weight: 220 lbs
The XtremepowerUS Dual Action Elliptical Fan Bike is ideal for indoor workout sessions.This elliptical fan bike is great for all fitness levels, from beginner to extremely professional, and all kinds of workout. Its adjustable resistance and seat height offer extra comfort. It is made of heavy-duty steel, which provides years of reliable use. It provides speed changes and comfortable sport saddle facilities for a smooth experience. You can track your activity with a multi-function console-level monitor. The front transportation wheels add ease and the frame of the bike is durable if used efficiently. Reviewers have praised the product for being worth the price and ease of setup.
- Adjustable tension
- Extremely durable
- Lightweight design
- Made with high-quality material
- Air-resistance system
- Built-in LCD display
- Built-in wheels
- Adjustable resistance and seat height
- None
"I am surprised by the remarkable durability and quality of the product. It is easy to assemble and not as loud as I was thinking it would be. I see myself using this product again. This is one to keep an eye on."
7. Best For Daily Use: YOSUDA Pro Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine
Machine Weight: 67.5 lbs, Resistance Settings: 16 levels, Stride Length: 13 Inches, Maximum User Weight:235 lbs
The YOSUDA Pro Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine offers an intensive full-body workout session, with a silent and smooth workout experience through the latest magnetic control and mute system embedded. The machine allows you to burn calories in a more hassle-free manner. Its exceptional adjustable stride length of 13 inches, LCD monitor display for better tracking, and 16 levels of adjustable resistance help you ensure your workout is challenging and effective. The extra-large, non-slip foot pedals provide a stable feel that contribute to outstanding stability and ease of adjustment. It is also a great option for people who are recovering from knee surgery.
- 3-in-1 machine
- Easy to operate
- Whisper-quiet magnetic drive system
- 16 levels adjustable resistance
- LCD monitor with pulse
- Efficient device holder
- Best for daily use
- Some might find assembling of the parts a bit difficult
8. Best Lightweight Machine:Progear Fitness Elliptical Machine
Machine Weight: 45 lbs, Resistance Settings: N/A, Stride Length: 36”, Maximum User Weight: 225 lbs
The Progear Progear Fitness Elliptical Machine is a lightweight folding machine that targets different muscle groups with less burden on the knees, ankles, and joints. Its exceptional 36-inch full range of motion stride length with 180-degree movement allows a full stretch to your leg muscles, works on your hamstrings, and increases your flexibility effectively. The large LCD screen display, 15” long over-sized foot pedals, and adjustable rear floor stabilizer provide analysis of workout stats. The dual-action workout arms tone the upper body by strengthening arm muscles. The ergonomic and foldable design of the strength training machine makes it easy to store in any corner of the room.
- Maximum full range of motion stride length
- 180-degree stretchability to legs
- Soft cushioned large foot pedals
- Large screen display to show time, distance, speed, and calorie burn
- Heart rate monitor
- Transportation wheels for easy relocation
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to operate
- Perfect for a slow walk and fast run
- Ensures side leg stretches
- Non-slippage adjustable rear floor stabilizer
- Easy to fold
- No storage space for water bottle.
- No USB port.
- No Bluetooth connectivity.
- Very basic design.
- No digitalized personal training.
"For two years, this machine has been my trusted backup. It delivers a fantastic cardio workout. It's easy to assemble and move and offers a great workout even while watching TV. It's perfect for light and low impact exercises."
9. Best Compact Design:Efitment E005 Magnetic Elliptical Machine
Machine Weight: 63 lbs, Resistance Settings: 8 levels, Stride Length: 11”, Maximum User Weight: 220 lbs
The Efitment E005 Magnetic Elliptical Machine has a compact space-saver design. It provides zero to low-impact workout that is suitable to tone the lower body with less burden on the knees. It also incorporates more upper body movement for a total body workout. The large digital screen regulates time, speed, distance, total calorie burn, and heart rate. The hand sensors built into the stationary bars help monitor and maintain heart rate, build cardiovascular and respiratory endurance, and aid effective fat loss. The easy-to-adjust knob with 8 levels of magnetic resistance help meet your fitness goals and set difficulty levels to increase your stamina. The oversized non-slip footplates, leg stabilizers, and a stable grip ensure proper leg movements in vigorous workouts. A belt attached flywheel ensures a quiet, smooth movement, while the foldable design allows the machine to be stored in any corner of your room.
- Compact design
- Inbuilt phone or tablet holder
- Large digital screen
- Heart rate monitor
- Large foot pedals with cushion
- Inbuilt leg stabilizers
- Stable hand grip
- Adjustable resistance knob
- Affordable
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to carry
- Less durable
- Poor customer service
"I have used this equipment daily for years. Its quiet, smooth function with perfect motion range suits me well. Its compact size makes exercise effortless. It is durable and requires minimal maintenance."
10. Best Non-Slip Grip:Marcy Magnetic Elliptical Trainer
Machine Weight: 92 lbs, Resistance Settings: 8 levels, Stride Length: 14”, Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs
The Marcy Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is a battery-operated, compact, and low-impact body workout equipment. It has stationary ergonomic handlebars to focus mainly on the lower body. The moveable handlebars with an easy-grip foam focus both on the upper and lower body simultaneously. The built-in large-screen display measures time, speed, distance, calorie burn, and pulse rate. You can change your workout levels from simple to hard by just changing the resistance knob up to level 8. The large spaced pedals with a grip and a soft cushion ensure proper leg movements with no injuries. The machine has inbuilt transport wheels for easy movement. According to user insights, the product is compact, easy to assemble, and does not make much noise.
- Large display screen
- Pulse-rate sensor
- Non-slippage hand grip
- Large and wide-spaced foot pedals
- Easy to adjust resistance knob
- Separate bottle holder
- Separate device holder
- Lightweight
- Easy to transport
- Battery operated
- Need to purchase the battery separately.
- Not easy to assemble.
- Not suitable for tall individuals.
"I was thrilled by how durable and efficient the product performed. Truly met my expectations. Overall, I was satisfied with its performance. Would recommend."
11. Best Versatile Settings:Stamina Inmotion E1000 Compact Strider
Machine Weight: 29.7 lbs, Resistance Settings: Adjustable, Stride Length: 7.5”, Maximum User Weight: 250 lbs.
It is time to leave excuses behind and opt for a fit and healthy lifestyle with the incredibly compact, portable, and affordable Stamina Inmotion E1000 Compact Strider that can be used while sitting or standing. It is a versatile equipment and offers use in reverse motion. You can easily adjust the intensity of your workout by turning the adjustable dial, and you can track your progress with a display monitor. This stamina building product comes with a workout app that offers customized workouts, training, and more benefits.
- Sturdy steel construction
- Extremely portable
- Lightweight
- Adjustable tension
- Multi-function monitor
- Smart fitness app included
- Textured pedals
None
"I own two of these elliptical machines and enjoy using them both at home and at work. As someone dealing with POTS and Ehlers-Danlos, I find it challenging to regularly exercise, but this device has enabled me to strengthen my legs comfortably, without causing dizziness or pain in my knees."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 13,095 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
These are the 11 best elliptical machines available on the market. You can use any of them and reap the benefits of a low-impact workout at your home. The next section will guide you on how to use an elliptical machine the right way to avoid injuries.
How To Use An Elliptical Machine The Right Way
- Increase the time and speed every week and try for at least a 30-minute workout.
- Keep your feet flat on the pedals while striding back and forth. Improper placement may burden your knees and ankles.
- Do not use handlebars to support your weight. Instead, use them for proper upper and lower body movements.
- Alter your intensity time, starting from low-intensity to high-intensity interval training.
- Your knees should not lock in at full stride. Adjust the pedals so that your knees are not overextended.
- Use the elliptical in the reverse to strengthen your legs and glutes.
Here are the benefits of using an elliptical machine.
Benefits Of An Elliptical Machine
- Depending on the intensity and speed of your workout, an elliptical machine helps burn calories and offers a solid workout session.
- The large pedals never leave your feet. They are easy on the joints and help in easy mobilization without straining them.
- You can increase endurance and improve your aerobic capacity by changing the resistance settings.
- An elliptical trainer works to tone both your upper and lower body simultaneously.
- Due to its ability to help burn more calories, it can aid fat loss in a shorter time.
- The machine allows you to work on specific muscle groups by simply changing the resistance levels.
An elliptical machine is indeed beneficial. But before you make a purchase, it is important to understand what you need to look for in one.
How To Choose The Right Elliptical Machine
- Check the elliptical resistance. It should be designed to challenge your workout.
- It is more fun if you have a lot of variations. Check the number of preset programs. Ensure it covers a lot of them.
- An easy to read console helps you to analyze your stats in a better way.
- If you can afford it, you may go for a machine with wireless connectivity. This allows for interactive sessions.
- The handgrips should be configured so that you don’t need to strain or stretch to reach them through the entire range of your stride.
- Check the heart rate sensor on the stable handlebar.
- The heavier the flywheel, the more stable the elliptical, generally. A flywheel weighing at least 25 pounds would be your best bet.
- The best elliptical trainer should be a space saver and easy to fold.
- The best elliptical trainer should have an adjustable incliner to challenge your workout sessions.
- Ensure the machine has transportation wheels. This allows for easy movement.
- The price of the machine must be within your budget. You do not have to go overboard.
- If you are a beginner, consult a fitness instructor or a certified personal trainer to ensure you pick the right equipment.
The Bottom Line
Elliptical machines can help you complete your cardio exercises with ease. These machines come with many preset workout programs that can guide you throughout your exercise. You should purchase elliptical machines that come with heart-rate monitors and have multi-grip handles. For an effective full-body workout, choose the Bowflex Max Trainer M8. Low-impact cardio can be done on the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine, which is reasonably priced too. While the Body Power Patented 2-in-1 Elliptical Machine & Stair Stepper Trainer helps with heavy workout sessions. However, for your home gym, you should steer clear of elliptical machines that aren’t easy to assemble and have a difficult usage system. Moreover, people with short or medium height should choose their machines as per their height requirements.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Aditi Naskar, holds a diploma in health and wellness and loves to write about fitness. She has curated this list of the best elliptical machines after carefully checking the pros and cons of the most popular options available on the market. She has compiled this list after thoroughly going through a wide range of products, their specifications, effectiveness, cost, and user reviews and feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the elliptical burn belly fat?
Yes, an elliptical helps burn calories and reduces belly fat.
Are home ellipticals worth it?
Yes. Home ellipticals/indoor ellipticals help improve your heart, lungs, and muscles while increasing stamina and balance, and burning calories.
Does an elliptical machine increase height?
No, elliptical machines do not help increase height.
Can I use an elliptical machine if I have shin splints?
Yes, it is safe to use an elliptical machine if you have shin splints.
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