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Finding the best cardio machine for your home gym really comes down to your workout preferences. There are so many different kinds of cardio machines–rowers, ellipticals, treadmills, air bikes, stationary bikes, and ski machines. It would be almost impossible for us to pick just one overarching best cardio machine because each one does something different.
Our team at GGR, which consists of certified personal trainers, triathletes, marathoners, CrossFit Level 1 trainers, and elite athletes, have personally tested more than 100 cardio machines. We use an in-depth fitness equipment testing methodology to rate machines from 1 to 5 on factors that include:
- Durability: We look for weight capacity of 300+ pounds, and we test machines at high speeds to note any shaking
- Workout Programming: We favor machines that offer preset workout programs
- Technology: We rate machines high for Bluetooth connectivity to apps, heart rate monitoring, and easy-to-operate consoles
- Ergonomics: We assess how the machine feels and its ability to adjust to accommodate a variety of body types
We combine our personal experience with machines with factual knowledge of what makes a cardio machine great to settle on the below list of the best cardio machines.
The 13 Best Cardio Machines
- Best Folding Treadmill: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
- Best Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
- Best Exercise Bike: Peloton Bike
- Best Exercise Bike for the Money: NordicTrack S22i
- Best Rowing Machine: Concept 2 RowErg
- Best Compact Elliptical: ProForm Carbon HIIT H10
- Best Budget Air Bike: Titan Fitness Fan Bike
- Best Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
- Best Under-Desk Cardio Machine: WalkingPad Folding Treadmill
- Best Smart Rowing Machine: Hydrow Pro Rower
- Best Budget Elliptical: Horizon Fitness EX-59
- Best Full-Body Workout Cardio Machine: Bells of Steel Blitz Bike
- Best Vertical Climber: MaxiClimber
Best Folding Treadmill: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
Good for: People who want an affordable treadmill that folds.
Best Folding Treadmill
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

Product Highlights
- Priced under $1,000
- Spacious 60-inch running deck
- Bluetooth connectivity
- QuickDial controls for both the speed and incline
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 60” running surface
- 3.0 CHP motor
- Bluetooth connectivity with apps like Zwift, Peloton, and Nike Running Club
- 325 lb weight limit
Cons
- Heavy machine at over 250 lbs
- No included touchscreen
- 3-year parts warranty and 1-year labor warranties are less than the Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
Bottom Line
For under $1,000, the Horizon 7.0 AT is a great option for people who want to use their treadmill to run.
Best Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Good for: People who want interactive programming with versatility
Best Treadmill
NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Product Highlights
- Spacious running deck
- Compatible with iFIT
- 14-inch touchscreen
- Incline and decline training
- Financing available
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compatible with iFIT
- 3.5 CHP motor
- Free trial of iFIT subscription with purchase
- Treadmill with incline and decline training
- Foldable to save space (EasyLift Assist)
- Run that feels similar to road running
- Financing options available through NordicTrack
- Generous speed range
- Wide running deck
- Cooling fan
Cons
- Big footprint
- Heavy and not the easiest to move
- Price is around $2,000
- Warranty is voided if the treadmill is used/stored in a garage
Bottom Line
If you’re looking to add a workhorse of a treadmill to your home gym, we recommend the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.
Best Exercise Bike: Peloton Bike
Good for: People who enjoy workout classes on their cardio equipment
Best Bike for the Money
Peloton Indoor Exercise Bike

Product Highlights
- 21.5″ touchscreen for immersive training
- Live classes and on-demand cycling sessions
- Leaderboard-style competition
- Adjustable screen, seat, and handlebars
- 5-megapixel front-facing camera
- Bluetooth connectivity
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Immersive experience
- Access to thousands of classes, challenges, and a large variety of workout options
- Compact footprint
- Sleek design
- Financing options
- “Try before you buy” option
Cons
- Disappointing warranty
- Membership is required to use bike
- Expensive
- Shipping is not included
Bottom Line
One of the more expensive options for virtual biking, the Peloton Bike is designed to be an all-in-one fitness solution on a high-quality cardio machine. You’re paying not only for the bike, but the unique training experience it makes accessible from the comfort of your home.
Best Exercise Bike for the Money: NordicTrack S22i
Good for: People who want the best exercise bike on the market today
Best Bike for the Money
NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

Product Highlights
- 24 digital resistance levels
- Incline and decline adjustments
- Fully rotating touchscreen
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Large 22" smart HD touchscreen
- Incline and decline ability
- Compatible with iFIT
- Adjustable seat
- Adjustable handles
- Dual-sided pedals
- Fan
- Comes with 2 3-lb dumbbells
- 24 digital resistance levels
Cons
- Expensive
- iFIT membership not necessary, but most beneficial
- Difficult to assemble
- Can’t be stored in the garage (brand states doing so will void the bike’s warranty)
- Hard to move and weighs more than 200 pounds
Bottom Line
This is the bike to get if you want an indoor cycling bike with interactive programming, incline and decline capabilities, and all the extras.
Best Rowing Machine: Concept 2 RowErg Rower
Good for: A serious rower who needs durability and quality.
Best Rowing Machine
Concept2 RowErg

Product Highlights
- Priced around $1,000
- Uses air resistance generated by the fanned flywheel
- Advanced PM5 Performance Monitor
- Low impact full-body workout fitness machine
- Lightweight and easily portable
- Can be broken down into two pieces for storage
- Can also be hung for storage
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Best-selling rowing machine in the world
- Easy assembly
- Accommodates users up to 6.6 feet tall and 500-pound weight
- Ergonomic seat and handlebar
- Seat is 14”
- 10-degree angle on handle for natural grip
- Air-resistance
- Adjustable airflow
- Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) monitor
- Nickel-plated steel chain
- Adjustable footrests
- Easy to store
- Limited 5-year warranty
Cons
- Priced around $1,000
- Few built-in workouts
Bottom Line
The Concept 2 Model D Rower is the best rowing machine we've tested and reviewed, including those that are much more expensive like the WaterRower. There's a reason you can find Concept 2 products in nearly every gym in the world, including CrossFit Boxes, and home gyms. After having the Model D for over two years, we are still as satisfied with it as we were on day one.
Best Compact Elliptical: ProForm Carbon HIIT H10
Good for: People with a small amount of space who still want a heart-pumping cardio machine.
Best Compact Elliptical
ProForm Carbon HIIT H10 Elliptical

Product Highlights
- Hybrid climber
- 10” vertical with a 5” horizontal stride
- Low-impact, intense full-body workout
- 24 levels of resistance
- 10” smart HD touchscreen display
- iFIT-enabled with a free 30-day iFIT family membership included
- 56 pre-programmed workouts outside of iFIT
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compact
- Quick but intense workouts
- Immersive training via iFIT
- Quiet
- Free 30-day family membership included
- Over 50 pre-programmed workouts
Cons
- Assembly is reportedly difficult
- Not for casual workouts
Bottom Line
The ProForm HIIT H10 trainer offers shorter, intense workouts on a compact and high-quality machine.
Best Budget Air Bike: Titan Fitness Fan Bike
Good for: People looking for a cheaper air bike with thoughtful features.
Best Value Cardio Machine
Titan Fan Bike

Product Highlights
- Affordable air bike
- 111-pounds of heavy-gauge steel
- Integrated with sealed cartridge bearings
- Powder-coated finish.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Made of heavy-duty steel
- Priced under $700
- Easy to transport
- Free shipping
- Fan guard
Cons
- Large footprint
- Chain-drive belt
- Can be loud
Bottom Line
The Titan Fan Bike is an affordable alternative for those looking for a quality air bike. Its ease of use, portability, and ability to deliver an intense workout make it a top choice for us.
Best Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
Good for: People who want a durable treadmill that will help improve their form.
Best Non-Motorized Treadmill
AssaultRunner Pro

Product Highlights
- Low-impact shock absorbing belt
- Incredibly sturdy and durable
- Built-in wheels for portability
- 100% athlete-powered
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely popular
- Durable machine
- No motor means fewer maintenance issues
- Easy-to-read monitor
- Thick rubber belt provides great traction
- Bearings under belt provide smooth run
- Sturdy
- Rear handle makes moving easier
- Powder-coating withstands the elements
- Affordable curved treadmill
- Staple for CrossFitters
Cons
- Extremely heavy
- Curved shape takes getting used to
- Plastic shell may crack
- High spin rate on belt
- No fancy monitor, water bottle holder, or other conveniences
Bottom Line
The AssaultRunner Pro is one of the best value non-motorized treadmills for home gyms on the market.
Best Under-Desk Cardio Machine: WalkingPad Folding Treadmill
Good for: Those who want to walk while they work
Best Under-Desk
WalkingPad Folding Treadmill

Product Highlights
- Folds for easy storage
- Suitable for tall folks and long strides
- Comes assembled
- Compatible with KS Fit App
- Features foot-sensing controls
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Under $450
- Foldable
- Can be controlled by the app or a remote
- Has automatic foot control
- No assembly required
Cons
- Max user weight of 220 lbs
- No obvious warranty
Bottom Line
The WalkingPad is another great option for people who want a way to walk while doing another activity.
Best Smart Rowing Machine: Hydrow Pro Rower
Good for: People who want a well-designed luxury piece of cardio equipment.
Best Smart Rower
Hydrow Pro Rower

Product Highlights
- Sleek and sexy design
- 16″ touchscreen display
- Magnetic resistance done right
- Gorgeous virtual rowing workouts filmed on location all over the world
- Smooth rowing experience
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Consistent and smooth magnetic rower
- Engaging interactive programming
- Ability to compete against others via a leaderboard
- Sleek and modern design
Cons
- Expensive at just under $2,200
- Additional subscription fee for programming
- Limited customer service contact options
Bottom Line
This is a fantastic, advanced rowing machine ideal for people who have the money to spend and the desire for trainer-led workouts.
Best Budget Elliptical: Horizon Fitness EX-59
Good for: People who want incline training on a budget
Best Budget Elliptical
Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

Product Highlights
- Elliptical with Bluetooth connectivity
- 18-inch stride length
- 14-pound flywheel
- 10 levels of magnetic resistance
- 300-pound max user weight capacity
- Has a built-in device holder and USB port
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 18-inch stride length
- Lifetime frame warranty
- 5 preset programs
- Textured foot pedals
- 10 resistance levels
- Bluetooth speakers
Cons
- Lighter flywheel
- User weight capacity is on the lighter side
- No touchscreen display
- 10-inch step-up is high
- No incline options
- No flywheel warranty
Bottom Line
The Horizon EX-59 is a budget-friendly elliptical with an 18-inch stride length and five preset programs to choose from. What it lacks in tech capabilities (mostly just the Bluetooth speakers) it makes up for in stability. This elliptical has a locked-down feel for a budget price-point.
Best Full-Body Workout Cardio Machine: Bells of Steel Blitz Bike
Good for: Serious athletes that want a different way to get cardio.
Best for a Full-Body Workout
Bells of Steel Blitz Air Bike 2.0

Product Highlights
- Sturdy with great transport wheels
- Budget-friendly
- Belt drive
- Compact footprint
- Plus-size adjustable seat
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Heavy-duty frame
- Notable weight capacity
- Belt drive system, which is quieter and requires less maintenance than chain drive
- Ergonomic seat
- Large fan
- Affordable
- Free shipping
- Comes with water bottle holder, wind guard, and phone holder
Cons
- No rear handle to make moving it easier
- Transport wheels are small
Bottom Line
The Blitz Air Bike 2.0 is one of the best-priced air bikes on the market and is packed with great features, a solid build, and solid warranty.
Best Vertical Climber: MaxiClimber
Good for: Those looking for a unique cardio machine with great interactive workouts
Best Vertical Climber
Maxi Climber

Product Highlights
- Vertical climber that allows you to pull down on tall handles while completing steps similar to a traditional elliptical or stair stepper
- Advertised for people who are looking for a low-impact yet maximum-movement machine that targets fat burning
- Follow fitness routines on the free MaxiClimber fitness app, compatible with iOS and Android
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Maxiclimber App free download for coach-led classes
- Low-impact form of cardio
- Easy assembly
- Varying resistance levels for all users on the XL
Cons
- Weight limit of 240 lbs on the Classic and 300 lbs on the XL
- Reviews say customer service can be difficult to reach or receive missing parts
- Some buyers claim that their product broke within several days or weeks of use
- Lack of varying resistance on the classic climber
Bottom Line
These products are low-impact cardio machines that are great for all fitness levels. If you’re looking for a new and unique piece of cardio equipment, both of these models could be a solid addition to your gym.
Other Cardio Machines We’ve Tested
To be perfectly honest, we have tested far too many machines to list them all here. However, we can provide a list of our favorite cardio machines based on certain specifications.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Cardio Machines
It’s hard for us to compare a rower and a treadmill, or an elliptical and a bike, because these are inherently different machines, and therefore, they are all rated differently. However, there are some commonalities we look at in cardio equipment in general.

We started with our full testing lists of all cardio machines, which means we were looking at hundreds of pieces of equipment. We narrowed those lists down into the best in each category, based on rating scores of 1 to 5 these machines received in categories such as:
Footprint and Portability
Because we write for home gym owners, we know that space matters. Cardio machines tend to be large pieces of equipment, so we favor those that fold, can be easily stored, and those that can be easily moved around a space.
Workout Experience
We have personally used each of the machines on this list, rating it for its ability to deliver a good workout for users at all fitness levels. We evaluate the feel of the machine, how smoothly it operates, how loud or quiet it is, and anything else we notice during our workout.
Durability
There are a few ways we test the durability of a machine. First, there are objective facts, like the materials used in construction and the user weight capacity. We also gauge how the machine feels using it at high speeds or if there is any wobbling during use.
Customizations
Customizations look different on each machine: speed range on a treadmill, incline on an elliptical, resistance on a bike. We evaluate the range of options users have and favor machines that provide automatic changes through those ranges.
Ergonomics
Cardio machines that can accommodate a range of users (meaning, a range of body types) is an important factor for us. We like to see adjustable seat heights, foot straps, wide running surfaces, and other indications that the machine can work for most people.
Value
Because we are in the business of reviewing cardio machines, we understand price points and what people can expect if they pay a certain amount for a product. We assess whether the price is right, or whether our readers should save their money.
Benefits of Cardio Machines
There are tons of benefits as to why you should do cardio. Here are a few of my reasons:
- Can deliver an entire body workout with one piece of equipment
- Makes your heart healthier1
- “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t kill their husbands, they just don’t.” Okay sorry, Mean Girls reference. Elle Woods is right though, doing exercises like cardio do give you endorphins!
- Can decrease body mass2
- It can be fun (That’s how I feel about the Ski Erg at least)

How To Find the Best Cardio Machine
Even with me kindly narrowing down the dizzying amount of cardio machines for you (you’re welcome), you still might not be 100% sure which one of the 12 you want to purchase. Here are some things to consider:
Technology
Do you like having interactive programming with your cardio machine, or do you prefer to do your own thing? This is an important question to ask yourself because some of the machines are only worth their price tag if you want to utilize compatible programming. Other machines may be a better buy for you (like the Concept 2 Model D) if you prefer doing your own thing versus wanting to follow along with a class (like you would get with the Hydrow).
Price
The prices of the 14 best cardio machines on this list vary greatly between $600-$4,000. I would recommend figuring out what you can afford or seeing if the piece of equipment you really want has a financing option available.
Your Goals
If your goal is to find a treadmill that can support your sprinting intervals, don’t pick a treadmill with a motor weaker than 3.0 CHP. Make sure you have a clear idea in mind with what you hope to achieve with your new cardio machine.
Space Considerations
“Measure twice, cut once,” as the old saying goes. In this case, measure twice, and buy once. Make sure you know how much space you have to work within your home before buying a treadmill, stair stepper, or stationary bike that has a bigger footprint than you can handle. (Want to make the most of your space? Check out something like the ProForm Hybrid Trainer, which is an elliptical and a bike all in one!)
RELATED: Exercise Bike vs Treadmill
Enjoyment
If you hate using the Stairmaster or dread riding recumbent bikes, don’t buy them! That seems obvious, but I’ve seen people buy cardio equipment that they knew they didn’t enjoy using and ended up having an expensive place to throw things on top of in their garage. Try out a variety of cardio equipment and decide what seems like the best and most enjoyable method for you. You may be lucky enough to find something you love as much as I love my Ski Erg.

Which Cardio Machine Best For You?
Depending on your goals, exercise preferences, or physical limitations, one type of cardio machine may be better suited to your needs than another. Here’s some quick guidance:
Opt for a Treadmill If…
- You enjoy walking and running and are able to put more impact pressure on your lower-body joints
- You’re interested in more dynamic programming and the ability to perform more intense workouts like HIIT or interval training
- You have plenty of room for a longer running deck when in use
Opt for an Exercise Bike If…
- You want to participate in dynamic programming—such as HIIT and interval training—but need less impact/pressure on your lower-body joints
- Your goal is to build more strength in your lower-body muscles
- You need a more compact machine (exercise bikes tend to take up more vertical than horizontal real estate)
Opt for an Elliptical Trainer if…
- You want to engage your full body while training, but require a cardio machine that places less impact on your lower-body joints
- Your goal is to boost your stamina and improve cardio capacity
Opt for a StairMaster or Stepmill if…
- You want to build more strength in your lower-body muscles and core
- You have plenty of vertical space for a taller machine
Opt for a Rowing Machine if…
- You want a full-body workout that’s easier on your joints (specifically your knees and ankles)
- One of your goals is to build your endurance and stamina
- You have plenty of horizontal space for a longer machine
Best Cardio Machine Workouts
Beginner Cardio Workouts
- 3 Beginner Cardio Workouts
- Rowing Workouts For Beginners
- Beginner StairMaster Workout
- Stationary Bike Workout For Beginners
Cardio Machine HIIT Workouts
Interval Workouts
- Rowing Interval Workouts
- Elliptical Interval Workouts
- How to Use a Treadmill For Interval Training
- Treadmill Interval Training Workouts
General Workouts
Best Cardio Machines: FAQs
Which cardio machine burns the most fat?
All of the best cardio machines can burn calories, which can lead to a decrease in fat. Exercise of any kind should be paired with optimal nutrition to see the best results for fat burn and weight loss.
Is it OK to do cardio every day?
The answer to this question depends on what you want to get out of your training and your current fitness level. Someone who wants to lose weight may do more cardio versus someone looking to make or keep gains. Check out the article I did in collaboration with Jacob Penner, USA Weightlifting Level 2 Coach, NCSA Certified personal trainer and CrossFit Level 1 Trainer. He gives insight into how much cardio you should do if you want to preserve muscle mass.
Which exercise machine is best for cardio?
Some people prefer treadmills while others prefer exercise bikes for their cardio needs, but the best cardio machine is the one you’ll use most often (and enjoy).
Our top 13 picks for the best cardio machines have a little something for everyone:
–Best Folding Treadmill: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
–Best Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
–Best Exercise Bike: Peloton Bike
–Best Exercise Bike for the Money: NordicTrack S22i
–Best Rowing Machine: Concept 2 RowErg
–Best Compact Elliptical: ProForm Carbon HIIT H10
–Best Budget Air Bike: Titan Fitness Fan Bike
–Best Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
–Best Under-Desk Cardio Machine: WalkingPad Folding Treadmill
–Best Smart Rowing Machine: Hydrow Pro Rower
–Best Budget Elliptical: Horizon Fitness EX-59
–Best Full-Body Workout Cardio Machine: Bells of Steel Blitz Bike
–Best Vertical Climber: MaxiClimber
What is the best cardio machine for a full body workout?
The best cardio machine for a full-body workout is the Concept 2 SkiErg because it works multiple muscle groups and increased your heart rate.
References
- Nystoriak MA, Bhatnagar A. Cardiovascular Effects and Benefits of Exercise. Front Cardiovasc Med. 2018 Sep 28;5:135. doi: 10.3389/fcvm.2018.00135. PMID: 30324108; PMCID: PMC6172294.
- Pinckard K, Baskin KK, Stanford KI. Effects of Exercise to Improve Cardiovascular Health. Front Cardiovasc Med. 2019 Jun 4;6:69. doi: 10.3389/fcvm.2019.00069. PMID: 31214598; PMCID: PMC6557987
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