10 Best Ellipticals for Home Use in 2024

An elliptical trainer is a stationary exercise machine where a person moves their feet forward or backward in an elongated circle or gliding motion. Elliptical machines are available at most fitness centers, but people can also purchase them for home use.
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Best overall: NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 | Skip to review
NordicTrack Commercial 14.9
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Best for tracking heart rate: Sole E25 | Skip to review
Sole E25
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Best for customizable programs: Nautilus E618 | Skip to review
Nautilus E618
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Best for a stepper elliptical: Bowflex Max Trainer M9 | Skip to review
Bowflex Max Trainer M9
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Best for working: DeskCycle Under Desk Elliptical Machine | Skip to review
DeskCycle Under Desk Elliptical Machine
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Best for HIIT workouts: Body Power Step Trac Elliptical | Skip to review
Body Power Step Trac Elliptical
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Best for multiple workout programs: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Elliptical | Skip to review
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Elliptical
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Best for Bluetooth connectivity: Schwinn Fitness 470 | Skip to review
Schwinn Fitness 470
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Best for on- and off-elliptical workouts: ProForm Carbon EL | Skip to review
ProForm Carbon EL
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Best for smaller spaces: Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine | Skip to review
Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine
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How we chose
Medical News Today chooses fitness equipment that meets the following criteria:
Price: MNT chooses products available for a wide range of budgets.
Size and capacity: MNT selects products to suit people of different heights, weights, and strength.
Connectivity: Where fitness equipment has fitness memberships or subscriptions, MNT ensures variation in classes and services that benefit a person’s health.
Materials: MNT chooses products that have safe and durable materials that are easy to clean and maintain.
Ease of use: MNT selects simple-to-use products that have clear instructions. If setup is complicated, MNT chooses brands that offer a setup or installation service.
Quality: MNT selects companies that adhere to high quality manufacturing processes that ensure its products are safe for personal use.
Reputable: MNT chooses products from businesses that adhere to industry best practices and offer reliable customer service and support.
Best ellipticals 2024
Below are some of the best elliptical machines available on the market.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
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NordicTrack Commercial 14.9
List price: $1,799
Tracking abilities: calories, time lapsed, cadence, and watts
Resistance levels: 26 resistance levels
Incline: 20% incline
Dimensions: 67 x 29 x 69 inches (in)
NordicTrack has designed this elliptical for commercial use, which means that it has all of the features a person would usually expect to have at the gym while they work out at home.
The Commercial 14.9 has a 32-pound (lb) flyweight and magnetic resistance, which may lead to a smoother and quieter ride. With an iFIT membership, people can virtually visit different locations and take part in elliptical workouts or other exercises.
While an iFIT membership is not necessary to use this machine, the extra features may keep a person’s exercise experience fresh and motivate them to continue.
However, the elliptical is a heavy machine, weighing 210 lb. As it is a commercial machine, it is large, standing 69-in high. People who are taller may find it uncomfortable to use, especially if they are working out in a space with lower ceilings.
The maximum user weight limit is 350 lb, making this machine a suitable choice for most people.
The product comes with a 10-year frame warranty, a 2-year parts warranty, and a 1-year labor warranty.
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smooth and quiet ride
iFIT membership offers access to hundreds of classes
comes with a 30-day free iFIT trial
requires an iFIT membership to unlock all features
large machine, making it unsuitable for smaller spaces
Sole E25
List price: around $1,000
Tracking abilities: heart rate tracking and additional tracking with a subscription
Resistance levels: 20 resistance levels
Incline: 20 incline levels
Dimensions: 70 x 24 x 71 in
The Sole E25 has 20 resistance levels that provide a varied workout, in addition to foot pedals that decrease strain on the ankle, hips, and knees.
This machine has a 350-lb maximum user weight, making it suitable for most people. The strain-relieving design may also be more beneficial for people on the higher end of the maximum weight limit, as having overweight or obesity can put more strain on the joints.
The Sole E25 has stationary handles with built-in pulse sensors for monitoring heart rate. The latest models come with an integrated tablet holder with a USB port and Bluetooth audio speakers, allowing people to stream entertainment easily.
People may be able to stay hydrated and cool easily throughout their workouts with this model, as it features a cooling fan and a water bottle holder.
However, the Sole E25 weighs 212 lb, which may make it difficult to move.
Sole Fitness provides a lifetime frame warranty, a 3-year electronics and parts warranty, and a 1-year labor warranty.
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has an integrated heart-tracking feature
comes with a 90-day Studio trial
reportedly smooth feel and resistance
a Studio membership is necessary to use all features
not foldable, so may not be suitable for smaller spaces
Nautilus E618
List price: around $2,587
Tracking abilities: distance, calories, and heart rate
Resistance levels: 25 resistance levels
Incline: no information available
Dimensions: 51.2 x 22 x 34.3 in
According to the manufacturer, people can exercise while digitally immersing themselves in locations worldwide, including virtual trails and courses. While it does not come with an integrated tablet, people can place their own devices on the shelf.
However, people will need to download the Access the World app to use these features.
The 29 customizable programs may appeal to people who find prebuilt programs in other machines do not offer the right level of workout. This machine also features 25 resistance levels, which should challenge most people regardless of their fitness level.
The tracking system displays details such as distance, calories, and heart rate. However, some reviewers state that these metrics may not be entirely accurate. People who wish to analyze their workout data more may prefer equipment such as fitness trackers.
Learn about the best fitness trackers available for purchase.
Learn about the best fitness trackers available for purchase.
This elliptical has adjustable foot pedals that allow people to get the best possible heel support. As the maximum user weight is 350 lb, this may be especially beneficial for people with overweight or obesity.
obesity
The Nautilus E618 weighs 231 lb. The manufacturer does not state the elliptical has transportation wheels, so people may find it difficult to move the machine.
The Nautilus E618 comes with a 15-year frame warranty, 5-year parts warranty, 5-year electrical warranty, 15-year motor warranty, and 2-year labor warranty.
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29 customizable programs
offers access to a range of virtual locations to provide extra motivation
adjustable foot pedals for more heel support
requires an app to use the virtual location feature
some reviewers state the machine does not track metrics correctly
no transport wheels, so may be difficult to move
Bowflex Max Trainer M9
List price: $1,999
Tracking abilities: time lapsed, calories, burn rate, heart rate, and rotations per minute (RPM)
Resistance levels: 20 resistance levels
Incline: no information available
Dimensions: 49 x 30.5 x 65.5 in
The M9 combines the motions of a stepper and an elliptical trainer, offering people more versatile workouts at a lower cost than some of Bowflex’s competitors.
The stepper and elliptical motions may make this machine more appealing to those who like to perform high intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts.
high intensity interval training (HIIT)
Alternatively, if a person purchases Bowflex’s JRNY membership, they can access on-demand classes, explore over 200 scenic locations, and have real-time coaches where the trainers adjust a person’s resistance levels.
Standard features include heart-rate hand grips, oversized textured pedals, and Bluetooth speakers. A person will need a JRNY membership to unlock metric tracking, playlists, and entertainment streaming on the machine’s 10-in touchscreen.
The maximum user weight is 300 lb, which is slightly lower than some of the company’s competitors. The machine, however, is considerably lighter, weighing in at 148.8 lb. People should be able to move this elliptical more easily than some of the other machines in this article.
The Bowflex Max Trainer M9 comes with a 3-year frame and parts warranty and a 90-day labor warranty.
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stepper and elliptical in one machine
lighter product weight
access to a range of features with JRNY membership, including on-demand classes and entertainment streaming
most features that make this machine stand out from competitors require a JRNY membership
has a lower maximum user weight than some other products
DeskCycle Under Desk Elliptical Machine
List price: around $249
Tracking abilities: RPM, time lapsed, and calories
Resistance levels: eight resistance levels
Incline: no information available
Dimensions: 23 x 18 x 10 in
An under-desk elliptical may be a suitable option for those who would like to remain active while sitting at a desk. However, some reviewers state it is noisy, so may not be suitable for people who do not work from home or in a separate office.
Learn more about the best under-desk ellipticals and where to buy them.
Learn more about the best under-desk ellipticals and where to buy them.
This elliptical features eight resistance levels, which is less than traditional machines offer. However, people who prefer not to work up a sweat while working or those who are rehabilitating after an injury may prefer a lighter workout.
The removable LCD screen tracks fitness metrics such as revolutions, RPM, time, calories, and more. People can place the screen on their desks or tables for easier viewing.
People can add a 2-year protection plan for around $25.
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small and discreet
removable LCD screen for easier metric viewing
suitable for use while working or rehabilitating after an injury
fewer resistance levels than traditional elliptical machines
some reviewers state it is noisy
Body Power Step Trac Elliptical
List price: around $450
Tracking abilities: time lapsed, speed, distance, and calories
Resistance levels: eight resistance levels
Incline: no information available
Dimensions: 24 x 62 in
This two-in-one elliptical machine and stair stepper uses curve-crank technology to build constant tension and efficient motion for optimal cardio workouts.
The manufacturer states that the ergonomic crank allows users to adjust resistance levels mid-workout without having to stop or slow down. People who enjoy HIIT workouts may benefit from this as they do not need to interfere with their exercises to increase or decrease intensity.
The LCD screen shows time, speed, distance, and calories burned.
However, this elliptical is only suitable for people who weigh up to 250 lb. People who weigh more than this will need to choose another machine.
The Body Power has a 1-year warranty for the frame and a 90-day warranty for all parts.
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less expensive than many other full-size ellipticals
tracks basic metrics without the need for a subscription
stepper and elliptical in one machine
has a lower maximum user weight limit than other machines
does not offer as long a warranty as other companies
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Elliptical
List price: around $480
Tracking abilities: speed, time, distance, calories, and RPM
Resistance levels: 16 levels of programmable resistance
Incline: no information available
Dimensions: 55 x 23 x 64.5 in
This elliptical may offer smoother strides due to its belt-driven mechanism. It features 16 levels of programmable magnetic resistance, which alongside the 24 different workout programs, makes this elliptical a more versatile choice.
The 24 workout programs include manual, heart rate, and body fat. People with all different goals, whether that be weight loss or increasing fitness, will likely find a program that suits their needs.
Additionally, this elliptical is lighter than many other machines, weighing in at just 104.8 lb. Despite its light weight, it has a maximum user weight limit of 330 lb.
Sunny Health & Fitness offers a 3-year structural and frame warranty and a 180-day parts and components warranty.
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lightweight
maximum user weight of 330 lb
16 levels of programmable resistance
24 workout programs
some reviewers state it is squeaky
the Sunny Health and Fitness app does not feature virtual routes for ellipticals
Schwinn Fitness 470
List price: around $1,299
Tracking abilities: calories, heart rate, time, speed, and distance
Resistance levels: 25 resistance levels
Incline: 10 degrees
Dimensions: 63.2 x 28.2 x 70.1 in
With 25 resistance levels and an adjustable ramp with incline control, the Schwinn Fitness 470 offers adjustable intensity for most fitness levels.
The 29 workout programs also add to the versatility of this machine. Bluetooth connectivity allows people to explore different locations and track their fitness journey with app-based tools such as MyFitnessPal and Explore the World.
This elliptical only weighs 186 lb, which is significantly less than some of its competitors. However, the manufacturer does not state the maximum user weight on its Amazon listing.
The Schwinn Fitness 470 comes with a 10-year frame warranty, a 2-year parts warranty, a 1-year electronics warranty, and a 90-day labor warranty.
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29 workout programs
adjustable ramp with incline control
lightweight
does not list the maximum user weight limit
some reviewers say it is difficult to assemble
ProForm Carbon EL
List price: $799
Tracking abilities: watts, calories, time, and distance
Resistance levels: 18 resistance levels
Incline: no information available
Dimensions: 68.5 x 25 x 67.75 in
This elliptical may be a good purchase for people who want to use an iFIT membership for on- and off-elliptical workouts.
Read our review of iFIT.
Read our review of iFIT.
An iFIT membership allows people to access Live Events, on-demand Global Workouts, and Studio Classes. Some of these workouts will be elliptical-based, whereas others may require other pieces of equipment, such as dumbbells. As such, people with a home gym may wish to consider this machine.
Learn more about the best home gym equipment available for purchase.
Learn more about the best home gym equipment available for purchase.
The machine features adjustable resistance, Bluetooth connectivity, and adjustable stride, which may lead to a more comfortable and rewarding workout. People can also track their power output, calories burned, time, and distance.
While each purchase comes with a 30-day iFIT trial, people will need to purchase a membership to use all of the elliptical’s features.
The ProForm weighs 250 lb, which may make it difficult to move around. Additionally, its maximum user weight is 275 lb, which is less than some comparable machines.
The ProForm comes with a 10-year frame warranty, a 2-year mechanical parts warranty, a 1-year electronics warranty, and a 90-day labor warranty.
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an iFIT membership offers on- and off-elliptical workouts
adjustable stride
offers a competitive warranty
requires an iFIT membership to unlock all features
heavier than some other machines
has a lower maximum user weight limit
Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine
List price: around $549
Tracking abilities: heart rate, distance, speed, time, and calories
Resistance levels: 16 resistance levels
Incline: no information available
Dimensions: 53 x 23 x 68 in
This elliptical features a compact design, which may make it more suitable for people with smaller spaces.
With 16 resistance levels, heart rate tracking, and other fitness metrics such as calories burned, the Schwinn 411 may be a good budget option for people looking to start their fitness journey.
While the elliptical does not have a touchscreen, it has a device holder so people can stream media. Unlike more expensive options, people do not need to purchase a membership to unlock all its features.
That said, people can download the Explore the World app to work out in virtual locations around the globe.
This machine is lightweight, weighing 100 lb. Despite its weight, it is suitable for people weighing up to 300 lb.
The Schwinn 411 comes with a 10-year frame, 2-year mechanical parts, 1-year electronics, and a 90-day labor warranty.
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lightweight
compact design
does not require a membership to use all features
does not feature an adjustable incline
no integrated touchscreen
How these ellipticals compare
The following table compares the ellipticals in this article on their price and features.
NordicTrack
Sole
Nautilus
Bowflex
DeskCycle
BodyPower
SunnyHealthandFitness
Schwinn
ProForm
Schwinn
What to look for in an elliptical
Everyone has different needs when looking for the best elliptical for home use. Some people may need something that takes up minimal space, whereas others may consider the cost to be the most important aspect. However, general factors to keep in mind include:
Hand placement: Some machines offer two hand placement options. These allow a person to choose between using moveable handles to engage the upper body and holding onto stationary handles for balance.
The number of programs: The number of preloaded programs varies among different elliptical machines. For instance, some elliptical machines offer programs that include intervals, hills, or a steady climb.
Incline and resistance level: Some trainers have a control panel that allows a person to change between several incline and resistance levels.
Stride length: Stride length will typically differ for each person, depending on their height, so an adjustable stride length could be a useful feature.
Tracking ability: Certain elliptical machines track a range of metrics, such as distance, heart rate, and calories burned, and display them on an LCD screen.
App connectivity: Some ellipticals link with fitness apps that can track progress over time or connect the user to an online community, personal trainer, or training program.
Frequently asked questions about home elliptical machines
Here we answer some common questions about these machines.
Home elliptical machines offer a combination of low impact cardio and strength training. People may find that these machines are cheaper in the long term than paying for a gym subscription and any traveling costs to and from gyms.
Some machines also offer on-demand and live studio classes, increasing the benefits a person may gain from exercising at home.
An elliptical machine puts less stress on the knees and hips than other forms of cardiovascular exercise, such as jogging. A 2021 study found that ellipticals put less stress on the joints and were a suitable alternative for running after an injury.
2021 study
The elliptical motion allows the user to work not only the legs but also several other muscles. Moving both the arms and legs can increase the number of calories burned per workout. An elliptical works muscles, including the deltoid, calves, back, and hamstrings.
As with any exercise equipment, an elliptical machine carries some risk of injury. People can take certain precautions, such as:
maintaining good posture, including keeping a straight back and a tight core
making sure that the feet are securely in place on the foot pedals
holding on to the handles to maintain balance
ensuring that the elliptical is well-balanced and on a stable surface
starting slowly and gradually increasing the resistance, intensity, and duration of the workout
Additionally, while lower-impact exercises, such as using an elliptical machine, can put less pressure on the knees and joints, weight-bearing exercises can help strengthen the bones and build muscle. Using an elliptical machine may be less effective in achieving these outcomes.
Summary
An elliptical trainer provides a complete, low impact cardiovascular workout. When choosing a machine for home use, a person should consider how much space they have for it. They can also compare the features of different machines and check for the option to adjust the resistance levels and stride length.
Using an elliptical trainer has pros and cons. It can be a good choice for post-rehabilitation exercise after an injury or surgery but may be less helpful for bone strengthening.