For those looking to work out at home and maybe even lose a little weight, elliptical machines are the top choice for many fitness fanatics who prefer to keep the gym as close to them as possible — AKA their house.
Most ellipticals don’t take up that much space, and they provide really comprehensive cardio workouts for even the most dedicated gym rats.
But for some reason, ellipticals aren’t as well-respected as other cardio-based workout machines — we presume that’s because not everyone fully understands the benefits of using one. (More of a yoga person? Try this.)
Clair Mason, co-founder of elliptical-based gym Elliptica, prefers the Keiser elliptical because it’s well-made and really easy to maintain. But at more than $2,000, it might not be the most practical buy for most home gyms. Read more…
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IMAGE: Sole Fitness
OUR TOP PICK
Sole Fitness E95 Elliptical
If keeping your cardio workout low impact and comfortable are paramount to your elliptical choice, this is one the best machines out there for the job.
- Maximum stride length: 20 inches
- Weight: 236 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: Yes
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST INCLINE OPTIONS
Sole Fitness E35
The pedals, stride length, incline, and more are all adjustable and its quiet drive system keeps noise levels to a minimum.
- Maximum stride length: 22 inches
- Weight: 215 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: No
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST FOR USER CONTROL
Bowflex BXE116
Integrated controls on the built-in handrails are easy to access, and allow for real-time custom programming
- Maximum stride length: 22 inches
- Weight: 289 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: Yes
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST VALUE
Schwinn 470
Works with health apps like RunSocial and Schwinn Trainer, is Bluetooth capable, has in-console speakers, an MP3 port, and a cooling fan.
- Maximum stride length: 20 inches
- Weight: 190 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: Yes
IMAGE: Amazon
MOST ERGONOMIC
Nautilus E616
Padded handlebars are designed to provide optimal comfort throughout the duration of your cardio sessions.
- Maximum stride length: 20 inches
- Weight: 196 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: Yes
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST FOLDING MACHINE
NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i
The entire machine folds down so you can easily store it under a bed or in a closet.
- Maximum stride length: 18 inches
- Weight: 218 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: Yes
- Folds down for easy storage: Yes
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST PREMIUM ELLIPTICAL
Precor AMT 835
Adaptive stride length tech, smooth movement, and accurate biometric feedback make this one of the best premium ellipticals out there.
- Maximum stride length: 36 inches
- Weight: 412 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: No
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST ECO-FRIENDLY ELLIPTICAL
Octane Fitness ZR7 Zero Runner
Looking to conserve energy? You’ll never have to plug in this elliptical because it’s completely self-powered.
- Maximum stride length: 58 inches
- Weight: 195 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: Yes
IMAGE: Amazon
MOST AFFORDABLE
Sunny Health Magnetic Elliptical Machine Trainer
Great for someone who is on a budget and doesn’t need anything too flashy to get their workouts done.
- Maximum stride length: 11 inches
- Weight: 60 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: No
- Folds down for easy storage: Yes
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST FOR VERSATILITY
ProForm Hybrid Trainer
You can convert the ProForm from your standard elliptical machine to a stationary bike in seconds.
- Maximum stride length: 15 inches
- Weight: 135 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: Yes
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST FOR HIIT
ProForm Cardio HIIT Trainer
When you use the HIIT trainer, you’ll be activating your calves, hamstrings, quads, glutes, biceps, and triceps all at once.
- Maximum stride length: 10 inches (vertically)
- Weight: 180 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: Yes
IMAGE: Amazon
BEST LONG-LASTING ELLIPTICAL
Keiser M5i Strider
A commercial quality elliptical that will last you a lifetime and requires minimal maintenance.
- Maximum stride length: 13.5 inches
- Weight: 130 lbs
- Bluetooth capability: Yes
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