For a great cardio workout that’s easy on the joints, the elliptical machine tops the list. Running on pavement or even the best treadmill can be painful for many people because of the force it creates on the knees and hips. Using an elliptical trainer forces the body into more of a gliding pattern as opposed to picking up your feet and putting them down on a hard surface.
Our Garage Gym Reviews team has tested more than 30 elliptical machines on the market to create a list of the best ellipticals for your home gym. As certified personal trainers, endurance athletes, and fitness enthusiasts ourselves, we evaluate and rate these cardio machines based on our in-depth fitness equipment testing methodology that includes factors such as:
- Programming: To get at least a 3 out of 5, the elliptical must offer multiple preset workouts. We gave bonus points to machines with built-in touchscreens that allow you to stream trainer-led workouts.
- Value: The ellipticals that earned a 4 out of 5 or higher here are priced fairly for their build quality and included features.
- Durability: A lengthy warranty of at least 10 years and a high weight capacity of at least 300 pounds are required for an elliptical to earn high scores in this category.
- Footprint: We analyzed the dimensions and weight of each elliptical to see how easy it is to move around. If an elliptical was compact and lightweight, we scored it a 3 out of 5 or higher.
After using each machine for a number of workouts, we landed on the top ellipticals below. In 2024, we helped 1,364 people choose the right elliptical for them, and here we’ll help you find yours, too. We also consulted with exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, to discuss the benefits of elliptical training. Then we had Dr. Bilal Ahsan, a resident physician in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), review the content for accuracy.
RELATED: Best Budget Ellipticals
The 8 Best Elliptical Machines
- Best Elliptical Overall – Sole E25
- Best Elliptical for Seniors – Horizon EX-59 Elliptical
- Best Elliptical for Comfort – Bowflex Max Trainer M6
- Best Durable Elliptical – Yosuda Dolphin Elliptical
- Best Budget Elliptical – Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical
- Best Elliptical for Small Spaces – NordicTrack FreeStride FS10i
- Best Under-Desk Elliptical – Cubii Move
- Best Elliptical With Incline – NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical
Best Black Friday and Cyber Monday Elliptical Deals (2025)
- Horizon EX-59 Elliptical – Save $200
- Bowflex Max Trainer M6 – $300 off plus free shipping
- NordicTrack FreeStride FS10i – $300 off plus free shipping (up to a $249 value)
- Sole E25 – Save $100 and get free shipping
Latest Updates
At Garage Gym Reviews, we’re constantly testing the latest ellipticals and updating this page with our top picks. Our team of certified personal trainers, elite athletes, and home gym experts has tested over 30 ellipticals, including foldable and under-desk models. In December 2025, we reviewed this list to ensure we’re still offering the best of the best. We also updated the prices and added more details about the different drive designs found on these machines.
Best Ellipticals Video Review
Best Elliptical Overall: Sole E25
Updated by: Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC
The SOLE E25 Elliptical provides effective workouts through its use of comfort and natural feel. The quiet front drive system, inward foot pedal design, and heavy duty steel frame all create a smooth, effective workout.
What our tester says:
“I appreciate that the footbeds are adjustable, since not everyone steps in the same fashion. While the handlebars are stationary, I didn’t feel any discomfort while using this elliptical.”
Best Elliptical for Seniors: Horizon Fitness EX-59
Updated by: Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC
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.
What our tester says:
“It certainly is not as sturdy as a commercial model, but I was really happy with the stability for the price and size. When the resistance is turned up, it really only shakes if you’re trying to make it shake.”
Best Elliptical for Comfort: Bowflex Max Trainer M6
Updated by: Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC
The Bowflex M6 provides a heart-pumping, low-impact workout that resembles stair-stepping.
What our tester says:
“Even my kids enjoyed it from time to time! We all agreed this gets a 5 out of 5 for a butt-kicking workout.”
Best Durable Elliptical: Yosuda Dolphin Elliptical
Updated by: Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC
The Yosuda Dolphin elliptical is a solid pick for folks looking for a low-impact cardio option that fits in tight spaces. It’s quiet, compact, and beginner-friendly—but more experienced athletes might want something with heavier resistance and interactive features.
Best Budget Elliptical: Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Machine
Updated by: Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC
Pack a cardio workout in the comfort of your home with the SF-E3912 Pre-Programmed Elliptical Trainer by Sunny Health & Fitness.
What our tester says:
“While the basic LCD display isn’t the most spectacular, I do love that Sunny Health & Fitness offers these built-in programs to help change up your workout every now and again.”
Best Elliptical for Small Spaces: NordicTrack FS10i
Updated by: Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC
The NordicTrack FS10i is a solid, versatile trainer with a strong, connected training package via iFIT. Anyone looking for a quality but low-impact workout would benefit from this machine.
What our tester says:
“There’s a definite learning curve when it comes to matching your steps and strides to your intended movement. Eventually, though, I was able to get a handle on elliptical and stepper workouts. I’d hesitate to call this a treadmill, though, since your feet never truly leave the pedals.”
Best Under-Desk Elliptical: Cubii Move
Updated by: Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC
The Cubii move is a lightweight, portable exercise machine that allows you to seamlessly pedal while seated.
What our tester says:
“My grandfather routinely uses his Cubii while sitting in his easy chair and can use it without fear of falling.”
Best Elliptical With Incline: NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
Updated by: Amanda Dvorak, ISSA-CPT, ISSA-CNC
The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical offers both incline and decline training, an adjustable stride length, and a 14-inch touchscreen display for iFIT interactive programming. You’ll enjoy the AirGlide if you want to break a sweat with expert instruction and motivation from iFIT trainers and coaches.
What our tester says:
“I also love the AutoAdjust features brought on via the programming. Rather than adjusting settings yourself, the machine automatically does it for you in accordance with your on-screen instructor.”
Other Ellipticals We Tested and Researched
There are quite a number of elliptical machines on the market today, but not all are worthy of being named one of the best ellipticals. Here are a few others we have tested or researched:
- Sole E35: This is the souped-up version of the Sole E25, and it’s a fine machine but it costs $600 more than its sibling. Is it worth it? Really, only if you’re a bigger person who needs an elliptical with a large weight capacity (the E35 can hold up to 375 pounds, compared to the E25’s 350). It also has a slightly larger screen and an additional two years on the warranty.
- Bowflex Max Trainer M9: The Bowflex Max Trainer M9 comes with more tech capabilities and resistance levels than the M6, but it’s also nearly $2,000. We think most home gym owners will be fine with the M6.

How We Picked and Tested The Best Elliptical Machines
The GGR fitness equipment testing methodology was developed by our team along with a group of fellow home gym owners who happen to be certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, weightlifting instructors, and professional triathletes. Here are the major factors we took into consideration when testing and rating these best elliptical machines.
Delivery and Setup
To give you the most complete picture in preparation for assembly, we took plenty of notes while setting up each elliptical, commenting on points of friction, how well the final product came together, and whether the tasks could be completed by a lone individual. Machines that came with easy-to-follow instructions, clearly labeled pieces, and all the tools needed for assembly earned at least a 3 out of 5.
Value
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: We’re not always looking for the cheapest option. We want to see what performs best for the money. To get a 3 out of 5 or higher, an elliptical must be competitively priced and include features that make it worth the final cost.
Tech Capabilities
What tech features make this special? Does the included technology always work? Technology is great when it runs efficiently, but a pain in the butt when it doesn’t. We want to make sure the tech on a product is consistent before singing its praises.
If the machine includes features like heart rate sensors on the handles, Bluetooth capabilities, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a great monitor that tells you performance metrics, we rate it at least a 3 out of 5. We give bonus points to ellipticals that include additional tech features such as USB chargers, speakers, and touchscreen displays.
Adjustability and Ergonomics
Machine adjustability is important for us to look at when reviewing an elliptical. We can’t recommend an elliptical as the best overall if it can’t adjust to accommodate a variety of heights. Specifically, we take into account the stride length and whether or not the handles move. If a machine also offers cushioned pedals and soft grips on the handles, it earns a 4 out of 5 or higher.
Durability
To earn at least a 3 out of 5 here, an elliptical must have a weight capacity of at least 300 pounds, remain stable while in use with very minimal shaking, and have a 16- to 20-pound flywheel. We’ll give higher scores to the machines that also have floor stabilizers and are made with very few plastic parts.
Customizations
How many resistance levels are there? How does this compare to the average elliptical? Is this both easy enough for a beginner and challenging enough for someone advanced? To earn a 3 out of 5, the elliptical must provide at least 12 levels of resistance. To earn a higher score, it must offer decline and incline training and allow you to pedal forward and backward.
Conveniences
We look for conveniences such as a water bottle holder, a safety stop, and a media storage tray where you can place a phone or tablet to watch entertainment or view classes. Only the machines that also offer cooling fans, additional safety mechanisms, and an extra water bottle holder get a perfect score here.
Dynamic Programming
Ellipticals that have, at least, a few built-in workout programs earn a 3 out of 5. We’ll give higher scores to the ones that also offer virtual programming with trainers and provide some type of online community where you can connect with other users.
Footprint and Portability
Can we easily move this machine from room to room? Can it be folded away and stored? Do we need another person to assist? Knowing everyone doesn’t have unlimited space, this is an important thing to consider and report on. We only give 4s and 5s to elliptical machines that have compact footprints, transport wheels, and lightweight designs that make it easier for one person to move on their own.
Financing, Warranty, and Returns
What is the warranty? Is this warranty better or worse than the average elliptical? Is it a limited warranty? We favor ellipticals that offer at least five to 10 years of warranty on parts and one year on labor. To get a perfect 5 out of 5, the machine must come with a lifetime frame warranty.
We also evaluate the brand’s financing options and return policies and favor the ones that offer at least 30-day returns and 0% financing over 30+ months.

Benefits of Elliptical Machines
A 2021 study1 reports that elliptical training can be a beneficial fitness discipline for its lower impact on joints while still promoting cardiovascular output and a better quality of life. In addition, according to Harvard Health Publishing2, a 185-pound athlete can burn more calories during a general 30-minute elliptical workout than an equivalently timed session on a stationary rower at a moderate pace.
Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD, adds, “Low-intensity exercise can be just as beneficial as high-intensity exercise. Low-intensity activities encourage the release of endorphins and promote relaxation for better sleep, which can help improve your overall mood.”
Dr. Mohr continues, “Regular physical activity, like using an elliptical several days a week, can aid in managing and maintaining a healthy body fat percentage. It does this by burning calories, which can help create a calorie deficit when combined with a nutritious diet.”
For a full list of perks and positives associated with this workout modality, read our guide on elliptical benefits.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Ellipticals
There are countless ellipticals on the market that could be great for your home workout routine. However, an elliptical is really only good if you’re actually going to use it.
Make sure you spend your money wisely by considering the following:
Price
There is a big price range on ellipticals, because you can go for cheap and basic, or expensive and overdone. The most affordable ellipticals are just a few hundred dollars on Amazon, but they are often cheaply made and break down easily. Stay away from those.
We find that the best ellipticals tend to sit somewhere between $700 and $2,000, just depending on what you really want out of your machine. The big companies, like NordicTrack and Bowflex, offer financing on their products, which makes the big-ticket items a little easier to swallow price-wise. These brands also routinely offer sales on holidays like Black Friday or Labor Day.
Resistance and Incline Levels
There are basically two adjustable workout factors on ellipticals, with the first being resistance. Resistance levels make pedaling harder, hence giving you a more intense workout. The more levels there are, the more variety you might have in your exercise. Typically, most machines have at least 12 to 15 resistance levels.
RELATED: Elliptical vs Walking
Incline levels are a bonus feature found on maybe just 20% to 30% of the machines out there. A 2021 study3 found that pedaling on an incline is great because it can change lower-body mechanics and activate different muscles compared to level-ground pedaling. Keep in mind that an incline usually indicates a separate motor in the machine, which could, in turn, require more maintenance.
Guided Workouts
Yes, you can just hop on a machine and get going, adjusting the resistance on your own. However, there are experts who put together workout modes that help you reach your fitness goals, such as fat-burning programs that have you exercising at about 70% of your maximum heart rate.
Quality ellipticals will come with at least a few built-in programs, ranging from interval sessions to hill workouts to heart-rate-based exercise. You can find machines that go the extra mile with interactive programming through apps, like NordicTrack’s iFIT membership or the Bowflex JRNY app.
Noise
Whether you live with a newborn, in an apartment, or just value peace and quiet during a workout, you’ll want to research the noise levels of the elliptical machine you’re eyeing. While ellipticals are generally quieter than treadmills, the actual noise level can vary from machine to machine.
Some of the models we reviewed—including the Yosuda Dolphin—were notable for being especially quiet thanks to their electromagnetic resistance. To cut down on noise further, you’ll want a rock-solid machine that doesn’t wobble during use, and make sure it’s well-maintained to cut down on loose parts making a racket.
Durability
If you’re going to make a sizable investment in an elliptical, then that machine should be built to last. Look for a heavy flywheel at about 20 pounds or more. Heavy flywheels help keep the machine from rocking all over the place. Also consider the weight capacity of a machine. Cheap cardio equipment sometimes can’t even accommodate a full-grown adult. Make sure the equipment you’re buying can hold your weight.
Conveniences and Tech Capabilities
The price tag goes up with the more you add on, but some conveniences almost feel necessary. For example, having a water bottle holder and a console that shows workout metrics should be the bare minimum. On the higher end, you’ll find 14-inch HD touchscreens and cooling fans. Other machines may also have:
- A USB port for charging your phone or device
- A media holder or shelf
- Bluetooth-enabled speakers
- Folding designs
- Transportation wheels for moving
Ergonomics
You don’t really ever want to be comfortable in a workout, right? You should be, at least, a little outside your comfort zone. However, you also don’t want a machine that puts your body in ergonomically unsound positions.
On an elliptical, make sure that the stride length matches your height. Generally speaking, a 20-inch stride accommodates people between 5’3” and 6’5”. If you fall outside this range on either end, you might look for either an adjustable stride or a different size.
Other ergonomic considerations include:
- Fixed handlebars, moving handlebars, or both
- Big footpads to accommodate larger feet
- Cushioned foot pedals for comfort
- Padded handlebars
- An easy-to-read screen

Flywheel
A flywheel is one of the most important components of any elliptical machine. This rotating disc provides resistance and enhances the machine’s overall stability. Depending on the model, the flywheel may be located at the front, middle, or rear, and it plays a major role in ensuring smooth, consistent motion as you pedal.
When shopping for an elliptical, look for a flywheel that weighs around 18 to 20 pounds. You don’t want it so heavy that moving the machine becomes a chore, but it should be substantial enough to anchor the elliptical and keep it from rocking or wobbling during use. Lighter flywheels can also be noisier than others given their quick revolutions—a quality worth considering if you prefer to train with quiet equipment.
Drive Design
When choosing an elliptical, the flywheel’s location makes a big difference in the machine’s size and feel:
- Front-drive elliptical: On these machines, the flywheel is located in the front of the elliptical. This orientation creates a movement plane that sees your strides moving slightly up and down, similar to that of a stair climber or an exercise bike.
- Rear-drive elliptical: This style of elliptical allows for longer, more level strides, similar to walking or running. These machines are typically longer because the flywheel is at the back, but the more natural movement may be preferable for some athletes.
- Center-drive elliptical: The flywheels are located in the middle of these machines and can provide rock-solid stability during workouts. Though not as long as the other two profiles, the included footrests may widen the silhouette, overall.
Your Home Space
You wouldn’t bring home a new couch or bookshelf without checking the measurements first, right? The same goes for an elliptical. The size of your living space should help determine which model is the best fit for you. Before pulling out your credit card, measure the overall dimensions of where you plan to place your new cardio machine. It can also be wise to measure the height of any doorways in comparison to the elliptical’s listed height, especially if you plan to move your machine regularly once assembled.
The average elliptical is about 62 inches long, 27 inches wide, 67.5 inches high, and weighs roughly 179 pounds. Not only do you need to account for all of that, but you also need to factor in your own height while using the machine, ensuring you have enough overhead clearance for comfortable, effective training. After all, you’ll really dread cardio day if you bonk your head on the ceiling with every stride.
Max User Weight
We’ve found that the average maximum user weight for an elliptical is 330 pounds. For your safety, be sure to check your machine’s maximum weight rating before making your purchase. Having an appropriately rated elliptical can also ensure you aren’t putting excessive strain on the build components, extending the lifespan of your at-home gym equipment.
RELATED: Best Treadmill for Heavy People
It’s important to note, too, that an elliptical doesn’t need to be heavy to have a high weight capacity. The Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Machine, for example, weighs just 104 pounds—below the 179-pound average. Despite its lightweight design, the machine can support athletes up to 330 pounds.
Warranty
Since an elliptical machine costs $1,299, on average, it’s important to find one with a warranty that protects your investment against defects and other issues. Look for a three-year warranty at the very least, but plenty of brands offer five- or 10-year plans.
It’s also important to look into what the warranty covers. Is it just the frame? What about the parts and labor? Do your research so you can rest a little easier between workout sessions.
Subscription Content
With the integration of streaming options on elliptical machines comes the inevitable downside of subscription costs. If you’re buying an elliptical mainly for its suite of virtual classes, make sure you’re not caught off guard by any additional membership fees you may incur. Some machines have a handful of built-in workouts, while others use streamable libraries from platforms like iFIT. While these platforms give you access to thousands of modules across varying fitness disciplines, they can cost upwards of $39 per month. Be sure to factor these repeating expenses into your purchase total prior to checkout.
What Stride Length Do I Need on an Elliptical Machine?
Like we mentioned, a 20-inch stride on an elliptical can accommodate most people between 5’3” and 6’5”. If you fall outside that height range, you’ll want to conduct some extra research to ensure the machine’s stride length is right for you. (Though there are other factors to consider, such as limb length and flexibility.)
Many ellipticals allow you to adjust the stride length, so that’s another key point to look into when choosing the right model, especially if your machine will be used by multiple athletes. Based on our research and experience, here’s the stride length you should aim for, depending on your height.
| Height | Optimal Stride Length |
| Under 5’ | 11” to 14” |
| 5’0″ to 5’3″ | 14” to 16” |
| 5’4″ to 5’8″ | 16” to 20” |
| 5’9” to 6’5” | 18” to 20” |
| Over 6’5” | 20”+ |
Who Shouldn’t Buy an Elliptical Machine
Elliptical machines can be ideal for individuals seeking a low-impact cardio solution, but that doesn’t mean they’re suitable for everyone. If you fall into one of these categories, an elliptical machine might not be for you:
- People With Pre-existing Injuries: This includes individuals with knee, hip, and back issues. Ellipticals are low-impact machines, but you should consult a doctor before use if you already experience joint discomfort.
- Runners: Elliptical machines can certainly help anyone maintain their cardio, but they will never replace a long run. If you only have room for one cardio machine, runners should probably stick with a classic treadmill.
- HIIT Enthusiasts: While you can certainly ratchet up the speed on an elliptical machine, athletes who often perform high-intensity workouts might find treadmills or exercise bikes more suitable for their training preferences. You can’t replicate the soul-punishing experience of sprinting up a max-incline treadmill, after all.
| Model | Price | Stride Length | Resistance Levels | Flywheel Weight | Dimensions | Max User Weight | Display Features | Best For |
| Sole E25 | $1,300 | 21.5” | 20 | 20 lbs | 70″ L x 24″ W x 70″ H | 350 lbs | 6.5” LCD | Anyone seeking a moderately priced machine with plenty of resistance levels |
| Horizon EX-59 Elliptical | $999 | 18” | 10 | 14.3 lbs | 73″ L x 24″ W x 66″ H | 300 lbs | Backlit LCD | People looking for a budget elliptical packed with features |
| Bowflex Max Trainer M6 | $1,299 | 15” | 16 | Not specified | 46″ L x 26″ W x 64.2″ H | 300 lbs | Backlit LCD | Anyone looking for a compact machine with solid streaming options |
| Yosuda Dolphin Elliptical | $1,699 | 20” | 32 | 20 lbs | 46.6” L x 24.4” W x 60.7” H | 330 lbs | LCD Display | A quiet machine for anyone living with roommates or family |
| Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical | $549.99 | 15.5” | 16 | 13 lbs | 55″ L x 23″ W x 64.5″ H | 330 lbs | Backlit LCD | Buyers on a budget who want built-in programs |
| NordicTrack FreeStride FS10i | $1,999 | 32” | 24 | 20 lbs | 58.5″ L x 29.5″ W x 74″ H | 375 lbs | 10” HD Touchscreen | Anyone who wants 16,000 virtual workouts at their fingertips |
| Cubii Move | $160 | 18” | 6 | N/A | 21.7″ L x 19.7″ W x 9.7″ H | 300 lbs | Small LCD | People who are short on space or who work from home |
| NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical | $1,799 | 17.8″ to 18.5″ | 22 | 32 lbs | 69″ L x 25″ W x 71″ H | 300 lbs | 14” Smart HD Touchscreen | Cross-trainers and folks who want a library of virtual classes |
FAQs About the Best Ellipticals
Which is the best elliptical machine for home use?
We’ve tested more than 30 ellipticals, and our pick for the best elliptical machine for home use is the Sole E25. It comes with several conveniences, such as Bluetooth speakers and a tablet holder, and offers a lot of value for around $1,300. However, the best elliptical for you will depend on your training goals, budget, and space constraints.
Is 30 minutes a day on the elliptical enough to lose weight?
Thirty minutes a day on the elliptical can help you lose weight because it helps you burn more calories. However, exercise alone will not cause weight loss if you eat too many calories for your activity level. GGR Chief Medical Advisor, Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, adds, “Combining aerobic exercise with strength training can help burn calories and build muscle. This combination can also boost your metabolism and support long-term weight loss.”
Is 30 minutes on the elliptical better than walking?
Using the elliptical for 30 minutes can be better than walking. It puts less stress on your joints while engaging more muscle groups, which can help you burn more calories than walking. That said, walking is still an effective way to burn calories and add more movement to your day. The form of exercise you choose will depend on your goals and which equipment you have access to.
What are the disadvantages of an elliptical?
Some of the disadvantages of an elliptical are that it takes up a lot of space, the movement can feel repetitive, and it may not be as effective for improving bone density as other forms of exercise.
Are ellipticals better for knees than treadmills?
Ellipticals can be better for the knees than treadmills. The gliding motion is less stressful on the knees than higher-impact forms of exercise, such as running. This makes elliptical machines suitable for people with arthritis or a history of joint injuries.
References
- Bosch, A. N., Flanagan, K. C., Eken, M. M., Withers, A., Burger, J., & Lamberts, R. P. (2021). Physiological and metabolic responses to exercise on treadmill, elliptical trainer, and Stepper: Practical implications for training. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 31(2), 135–142. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33477112/
- Calories burned in 30 minutes of leisure and routine activities. Harvard Health. (2021, March 8). https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-weight-loss/calories-burned-in-30-minutes-for-people-of-three-different-weights
- Hummer, E. T., Murphy, E. N., Suprak, D. N., Brilla, L. R., & San Juan, J. G. (2021). Movement direction impacts knee joint kinematics during elliptical exercise at varying incline angles. The Knee, 29, 201–207. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33640619/

























