The best elliptical trainers offer a full-body workout without straining your joints. That’s why you will see people of all ages and fitness levels looking to jump on one at the gym. 

Bringing an elliptical into your home gym gives you more opportunities to reap the benefits of this machine every day while minimizing your excuses not to train. Even better, there are some very affordable ellipticals on the market. Our team of expert product testers has personally used the best ellipticals under $1,000 to give you our expert, unbiased opinion on which might be best for you.

In fact, our team of certified personal trainers, competitive athletes, and fitness enthusiasts have tested more than 30 machines. We evaluate ellipticals using our multi-point equipment testing methodology to rate each product on a scale of 1 to 5 in areas such as:

• Functionality: We rate our workout experience and the ease of use of the machine.
• Durability: Our team favors machines that feel stable during use and have high weight capacities.
• Value: We determine whether the elliptical’s price is fair based on its quality.

Our passion for fitness equipment goes beyond ourselves. At Garage Gym Reviews, we seek to help others discover the life-changing benefits of fitness and help those already engaged in training further their performance and goals. 

The 7 Best Ellipticals Under $1,000

• Best Overall Elliptical Under $1,000: ProForm Carbon EL
• Best Durable Elliptical Under $1,000: Horizon Fitness EX-59
• Best Elliptical Under $1,000 for Beginners: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic
• Best Under-Desk Elliptical Under $1,000: Cubii Move
• Best Elliptical Under $1,000 With Programming: Schwinn 430 Elliptical
• Best Compact Elliptical Under $1,000: YOSUDA E6 Compact Elliptical Machine
• Best Freestyle Elliptical Under $1,000: Gazelle Freestyle

Best Overall Elliptical Under $1,000: ProForm Carbon EL

Good for: A well-built, sturdy machine that has lots of built-in conveniences and extras.

Best Overall

ProForm Carbon EL Elliptical

GGR Score: 3.8

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Product Highlights

• 18 levels of silent magnetic resistance 
• 0 to 20 degrees of manually adjustable incline 
• 5” high-contrast multi-color display 
• Tablet holder 
• iFIT-compatible with SmartAdjust technology 
• Steel frame 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 18 levels of silent magnetic resistance
• 0-20 degrees of incline
• SmartAdjust technology allows iFIT trainer to adjust resistance
• Free 30-day iFIT membership
• Free shipping

Cons

• Incline adjusted manually
• 275-lb user weight capacity
• Long assembly process

Bottom Line

The ProForm Carbon EL elliptical is an affordable machine with both resistance and incline abilities if you’re looking for guided workouts. If you don’t think you’ll use iFIT, there’s probably a better machine for you.

Over the years, we have had a few different products in this spot, like the Sole E25 elliptical, a high-quality machine that no longer sits under $1,000. Today, after re-assessing what’s on the market that is still under $1,000, we feel the ProForm Carbon EL is the best option. We have used it ourselves, rating it a 4 or higher in areas that include durability, customizations, ergonomics, tech, and dynamic programming.

Priced under $800, the Carbon EL’s value proposition (other than its affordable price tag) is that it is compatible with iFIT, an app that has thousands of trainer-led classes and workouts. Many people on our team have used iFIT on treadmills, ellipticals, bikes, and more, and we all agree it is one of the best online workout programs.

iFIT features trainer control, which means that as the workout progresses on the display, the machine will automatically adjust your resistance. Now, on many ProForm and NordicTrack ellipticals, iFIT streams from a large, built-in touchscreen. Not so on the Carbon EL, which has a fairly basic display. However, there is a media shelf where you can stow a phone or a tablet to stream your workout.

This is one of the few ellipticals under $1,000 that we have tested and rated a near-perfect on tech capabilities. With iFIT connectivity, Bluetooth speakers, and a multi-color, high-contrast display, the ProForm Carbon EL earns a 4.5 out of 5 from us in this category.

While ProForm states that the 18 levels of magnetic resistance are “silent,” our tester, Caroline, said she felt the noise was actually at a moderate level. So if you’re looking for a whisper-quiet machine, this may not be it.

ProForm also doesn’t disclose the weight of this machine on its website. However, we did find a note on Consumer Reports suggesting that it’s more than 200 pounds. And in our own experience trying to move this machine around, we can attest that it’s very heavy. If you need to do more than wheel it across the room, you may need assistance.

For more on our take, check out our ProForm Carbon EL review.

Best Durable Elliptical Under $1,000: Horizon Fitness EX-59

Good for: People looking for an elliptical with a high weight capacity and smooth experience

Best Durable Elliptical Under $1,000

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

GGR Score: 3.75

Check Price On sale for $350 with code HALFOFF for Black Friday

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.

Priced under $600, the Horizon EX-59 has an impressively quality build. The 145-pound elliptical has a durable construction that supports up to 300 pounds. In addition, our testers found that you will have a smooth and stable experience wherever you train.

“This is super smooth,” says Lindsay Scheele, lead reviewer on Garage Gym Reviews Everything. “There was no shifting when I took it to top speeds.”

Textured foot pedals help to lock you in place as you exercise, and an 18-inch stride length means this machine is great for users of just about any height. Further reassuring is Horizon’s lifetime frame warranty, something that even the best elliptical machines don’t have. 

We are surprised that the flywheel on the EX-59 is just 14 pounds, as that seems a little light to provide such a stable experience. But it does.

Compared to high-end machines, you might find this elliptical fairly basic. We gave it 3s and 4s out of 5 in areas like conveniences, tech capabilities, and customizations. However, that’s what you should expect out of even the best budget ellipticals.

Theres is a 4.5-inch LCD monitor that Lindsay says is very user-friendly. The monitor reports on essential metrics such as speed, calories, and distance. Additionally, there are five built-in workout programs. If you prefer streaming workouts, the EX-59 has convenient Bluetooth connectivity, built-in speakers, and a practical device holder above its LCD screen.

The elliptical comes with 10 resistance levels but no incline options. Lindsay says it was pretty easy to move the EX-59. It weighs almost 150 pounds, but there are front transport wheels as well as a handle on the back.

For more on our take, check out our Horizon Fitness EX-59 review.

Best Elliptical Under $1,000 for Beginners: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic

Good for: Those looking for an elliptical machine that’s easy to use

Best Elliptical Under $1,000 for Beginners

Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical

GGR Score: 4.1

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Product Highlights

• Just 105 pounds and easy to move
• Supports up to 330 pounds
• Fixed and moving handles for upper body workout
• 24 built-in workouts

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy-to-follow built-in workouts
• Under $600
• Machine is smooth and doesn’t shake
• 16 levels of resistance

Cons

• Warranty is below the industry standard
• Unclear assembly instructions
• Short stride length of just 15.5 inches

Bottom Line

Pack a cardio workout in the comfort of your home with the SF-E3912 Pre-Programmed Elliptical Trainer by Sunny Health & Fitness. Stride 15.

If you are just starting to experiment with elliptical training, you may want a machine that is straightforward and accessible. The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical is ideal for beginners looking to learn the ins and outs of this type of training.

I personally used this machine for several workouts and can attest to how simple it is to use. You just turn it on, select a program, and go. Why I like it so much for beginners is that there are a whopping 24 easy-to-follow programs, so you don’t have to come up with your own elliptical workout.

The backlit display is basic but reports the essentials like heart rate, speed, calories burned, and distance. Also, if you need more from your monitor, the machine’s built-in media shelf helps you to safely incorporate your devices for additional training guidance or entertainment.

RELATED: Elliptical Workouts for Weight Loss

This machine offers both stationary and moving handlebars. This provides stability for those just getting used to an elliptical as well as an upper-body workout for when you’re ready to progress. Unlike similarly priced ellipticals, the Sunny can also accommodate heavier users with a 330-pound weight capacity. 

With an electro-magnetic system, the Sunny Magnetic Elliptical offers 16 levels of resistance. During my workouts on this machine, I pedaled forward and background, and I noticed only minimal shifting while in use. The Sunny is compact, light at just 104.8 pounds, and has transport wheels to make moving this machine a breeze. 

Note that the stride length of 15.5 inches is on the short side, so taller users may not be quite as comfortable. Also, I personally assembled this machine, and it took about 1.5 hours. The instructions had complicated diagrams that combined several steps into one. I’ve put together commercial-grade ellipticals before, wiring consoles, and didn’t have this many issues.

Also, attaching the pedals requires some finesse and reworking screws to get it right. Sunny Health provides the tools necessary, but it was easier using our own Philips head screwdriver. While the warranty on this machine is just three years on the frame and 180 days on the parts, we aren’t surprised, as most budget machines come with shorter warranties.

For more on our take, check out our Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical review.

Best Under-Desk Elliptical Under $1,000: Cubii Move

Good for: People who want to pedal while they work

Best Under-Desk Elliptical

Cubii Move

GGR Score: 3.79

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Product Highlights

• Lightweight and portable
• Tracks stride count, mileage, duration, and calories burned
• Great for under-desk use
• 6 levels of resistance

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight
• Great for under-desk pedaling
• 6 levels of resistance
• Tracks stride count, mileage, duration, and calories burned

Cons

• Does not provide a full-body workout
• May wobble on carpet
• No handle
• Manual resistance only

Bottom Line

The Cubii move is a lightweight, portable exercise machine that allows you to seamlessly pedal while seated.

The Cubii Move doesn’t look like an elliptical, we know. It’s a small pedaling machine, which can be stored under your desk or kept at your feet while you watch TV. We have tested the Cubii JR, which has been discontinued, though the Move is quite similar in specs and looks.

The Cubii line of pedalers includes the Move, the the Go, and the Total Body+. The Move is the most budget-friendly. If you want a full-body workout involving the arms, you can opt for the the Total Body+. However, we’re talking about an under-desk elliptical, so we chose a feet-only machine so your hands are still free to type.

RELATED: Cubii JR Review

The woman who tested the Cubii JR, Caroline Lubinsky, says it’s very easy to use, and it received a 5 out of 5 stars on assembly and portability because at less than 20 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to move. Also, a simple machine typically has a simple monitor: The display is small and tracks metrics like mileage, stride, time, and calories.

There are eight levels of resistance on the Cubii Move, which you change manually by rotating a knob.

The Cubii Move does not sync with any technology. There is an app from Cubii where you can manually track your workouts instead.

Best Elliptical Under $1,000 With Programming: Schwinn 430 Elliptical

Good for: Those wanting lots of workout options

Best With Programming

Schwinn 430 Elliptical

GGR Score: 3.2

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Product Highlights

• Front-drive elliptical
• 20” stride 
• 20 levels of resistance 
• 6 levels of incline
• 22 built-in programs 
• Dual LCD screens

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 20 levels of magnetic ressistance
• Cheaper entry price compared to other similar ellipticals
• Longer stride length compared to other ellipticals in this price range
• Manually adjustable incline levels

Cons

• No Bluetooth connectivity
• Big footprint

Bottom Line

If you're looking for an economical option for an elliptical, this could be a good choice. While it does not have all the bells and whistles of the higher-tech ellipticals, you’ll still get a good workout in.

It’s nice to step onto a cardio machine, press a button, and get a good workout. That’s precisely what you can do on the Schwinn 430, which has 22 built-in programs. Those programs include beginner- and advanced-level options on workouts such as heart rate control, fitness tests, and custom workouts you can build.

We were able to use the Schwinn 470, which has now been discontinued, but is very similar in build to the 430, which is priced at $999. They have the same type of magnetic resistance and the same stride length. In testing, we found the 470 to be extremely quiet, and we can speculate that with similar specs, the 430 will be quiet as well.

There are 20 levels of resistance on the 430, and it is computer controlled (in other words, you can simply press buttons to change the resistance). When we tested the 470, we found the baseline level of resistance to be more difficult than the lowest setting on competitors. If you’re a true beginner who isn’t ready for much resistance, this may not be the best option.

Note that this elliptical has quite a large footprint; therefore, you won’t find it on our list of the best compact ellipticals. Measure your space to make sure you have room for a machine that is over 6 feet long and 2 feet wide.

In addition to being packed with workouts, the 430 is packed with features. You’ll find a USB port, media shelf, water bottle holder, a cooling fan, dual speakers, and even an input for MP3 devices. We had no complaints regarding similar conveniences on the Schwinn 470 during our testing.

For more on our take, check out our Schwinn 430 Elliptical review.

Best Compact Elliptical Under $1,000 With Programming: YOSUDA E6 Compact Elliptical Machine

Good for: Those living in small spaces who want an affordable elliptical

Best Compact

YOSUDA E6 Compact Elliptical Machine

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Product Highlights

• 16 levels of resistance
• Priced affordably
• Pedals move forward and backward
• No outlet needed

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Priced under $500
• Quiet machine
• 16 levels of resistance
• No electricity needed
• Move forward and backward

Cons

• Short, 13" stride
• Very basic monitor
• Low weight capacity of 235 lbs

Bottom Line

The YOSUDA elliptical is a budget-friendly machine that offers up to 16 levels of resistance. This would be best suited for people looking for a cheap machine to do light to moderate workouts.

Traditional ellipticals take up substantial space. It makes sense; these machines are meant to deliver a lower-impact version of running, which typically requires a long stride. The YOSUDA E6 Compact Elliptical Machine is much smaller, clocking in at about half the length and width of most of these larger machines.

YOSUDA is a brand whose name you might recognize from any search you’ve done for cardio equipment on Amazon. They make budget-friendly machines, which we know because we have put one of their bikes through rigorous testing.

RELATED: YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike Review

While we haven’t gotten to personally test the E6 Compact Elliptical Machine just yet, we know from using the brand’s equipment and looking at these specs that this could be a good fit for some home gym owners.

One key callout we have of the YOSUDA is that while its compact size saves space, it also means a significantly shorter stride. In fact, the stride is just 13.5 inches. If you’re a tall person, this could feel a little awkward as you use the machine. We have tested ellipticals with 15-inch strides, and our testers who are 6 feet or taller say they have difficulty feeling comfortable on the machine.

There are 16 levels of resistance, which is a good amount for an elliptical that is priced under $300. However, you have to adjust the resistance manually. I’ve used several ellipticals that require you to turn a knob to dial the resistance up or down. It’s not a dealbreaker, but if you have grip issues, you may prefer a machine with buttons.

This machine is incredibly portable, weighing around 60 pounds. Also, it doesn’t need to be plugged into the wall, so you can set it up just about anywhere. Be advised that there are no built-in workouts, and the only extra features are transport wheels—there is not even a water bottle holder.

Best Freestyle Elliptical Under $1,000: Gazelle Freestyle

Good for: Those looking for a stability challenge on an elliptical

Best Freestyle Elliptical Under $1,000

Gazelle Elliptical Glider

GGR Score: 2.9

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Product Highlights

• 10 exercises in one machine
• Dual action split suspension allows for full range of motion
• Pulse grip heart rate monitor
• Small monitor displays heart rate, speed, distance, time, and calories
• Folds for easy storage
• Comes with 2 DVDs, an exercise manual, and nutritional guide
• Joint-friendly

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Folding design
• Large water bottle holder
• Pulse grips to monitor heart rate
• Doesn’t require power outlet
• Expert assembly option for additional cost

Cons

• Can be tricky to get the hang of the motion
• Reports of grinding noise when in use
• Basic monitor

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a joint-friendly piece of cardio equipment that facilitates muscle tone as well as cardiovascular health, the Gazelle Freestyle glider is a good choice for beginners and more experienced cardio junkies alike.

The Gazelle Freestyle is compact, simple, and cheap. This cross-trainer machine offers a low-impact workout where you are in complete control. There is no adjustable resistance, no set movement pattern. You are responsible for the balance and stride as you move. 

The Gazelle is exceptionally light at 46 pounds, has a small footprint, and is foldable, making it great for anyone short on space. Shockingly, it touts a weight capacity of 300 pounds. However, our testers felt that might be an overshot based on the mostly-plastic construction.

As far as features go, this is a pretty basic elliptical: The Gazelle has an easily accessible square-shaped water bottle and a small LCD screen that reports basic metrics. One thing we do like is that you don’t need an electrical outlet to use it.

The biggest callout here is that users who struggle with balance may feel stressed on this simple machine. Also, our testers found that extra attention is needed in getting on and off due to the instability of the pedals.

For more on our take, check out our Gazelle Freestyle review.

Other Ellipticals Under $1,000 We Researched

ProForm Hybrid Trainer: This hybrid provides both a recumbent bicycle and elliptical option for your training. I’m always a fan of having more versatility on a workout machine. However, what stood out most about this bike/elliptical hybrid is that it offers an adjustable screen with interactive programming via iFIT.

Exerpeutic Elliptical: Despite the price range, the elliptical is pretty sturdy. However, our testers found it to be very loud.

Schwinn 411: This elliptical offers an industry-standard 18-inch stride, 16 levels of resistance and adequate support for upwards of 300-pound users. We have yet to test this machine, though we have read that some people find it difficult to use.

Niceday Elliptical: This exceptionally quiet and affordable elliptical has a durable build with a weight capacity of 400 pounds, though we found the handles to be a little wobbly. 

How We Picked and Tested Ellipticals

When testing the best elliptical trainers, we cover every factor. Not only do we approach each elliptical based on our fitness experience, we analyze accessibility, practical use, durability, and more.

A few things we look at: 

• Value: We consider the price vs. what it has to offer. 
• Durability: Did we have a sturdy foundation to train? 
• Monitor features: We measure how advanced it is, if it’s a touchscreen and what capabilities it has.
• Footprint: Is it compact, and is it portable? 
• Warranty: Does the company stand by its product?
• Resistance and incline levels: Can the machine give you the workout you need? Does it have an adjustable incline and multiple resistance levels?
• Assembly: How complicated is it to do on your own? 
• Programs: Are there built-in options for HIIT, interval training, hills, and more?
• Stride: How long is it, and does the elliptical feature an adjustable stride?
• Construction: The quality of general materials used are something we want to understand fully (so you can too).
• The extras: We keep our eyes peeled for extra features such as Bluetooth or USB compatibility and built-in speakers. 

All this is part of our bigger goal of helping you determine precisely if the elliptical’s price, features, and construction are right for you.

Benefits of Ellipticals

There is no shortage of elliptical benefits. We love this low-impact cardio exercise for a number of reasons:  

• Like swimming, ellipticals provide a full-body workout that hits all your major muscle groups with considerably less stress on your joints than running.
• For those who can’t stop training but are injured, ellipticals offer a high-intensity feel that is more delicate and safe to engage in when undergoing recovery. Generally, they are great tools when transitioning back to pre-injured workout routines.
• Ellipticals help to build both your cardio and strength. Offering speed, incline, and resistance adjustments make ellipticals great for people who are looking to build muscle and advance their stamina.
• Ellipticals can give you a high-intensity workout that burns calories. 

What to Look for in a Budget Elliptical

We have a comprehensive elliptical buying guide, but here are a few things we can say if you’re in the market for a budget-friendly machine to help you meet your fitness goals:

Footprint

If you have limited space in your home, you want a machine that is easy to move, foldable or leaves a small footprint. Budget ellipticals often come with a smaller footprint than other machines. Keep in mind that this usually means a shorter stride, which can be uncomfortable for taller users.

Incline and Resistance

One area where more affordable ellipticals often make sacrifices is with resistance levels. You might find fewer options on these machines. The same goes for incline: In order to offer incline levels, a machine would need a motor to power those changes, and that would mean a higher price tag. 

So when looking at the best ellipticals under $1,000, keep an eye out for these features and  make sure you’re still getting what you need for an effective workout. 

Durability

Will the elliptical be able to support your weight? Does it shake while in use? You can glean weight capacity from product specs, but understanding how sturdy it is might be difficult to do if you don’t have access to the machine. Check out reviews before buying.

Technology

Maybe you don’t mind a simple monitor that records the basics (calories burned, distance, speed, heart rate, etc.). However, many people today desire more advanced interactive fitness programs built into the machine’s interface. 

Expect steeper prices as tech features become more advanced, but some models available today offer quality preset programming and interactive training at an affordable rate. 

Furthermore, when shopping on a budget, DIY solutions such as incorporating external devices for viewing are a great solution before investing in higher-end ellipticals. And while not standard, many machines in this price range offer USB and Bluetooth technology.

Best Ellipticals Under $1,000 FAQs

Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1

Kate has nearly two decades of experience working in both the fitness and content industries. On the fitness side, she has worked in a number of settings: youth athletics, owned a CrossFit affiliate, personal training, weightlifting coach, CrossFit coach, and fitness floor consultant at a YMCA. Personally, Kate enjoys competing in weightlifting and stores her barbell in her bedroom.On the content side, Kate’s background is in newspaper journalism. She branched into public relations for the American Red Cross for about five years and then moving into content marketing.Today, her work at Garage Gym Reviews blends her excitement for fitness and love of writing. If she isn’t reviewing fitness equipment, you can find her working out or spending time with her two children.Certifications:NASM Certified Personal Trainer CrossFit Level 1 Trainer USA Weightlifting Level 1 Trainer

Further reading

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Build Speed and Stamina With These Treadmill Interval Training Workouts

by Amanda Capritto, CPT, CNC, CES, CF-L1

The best elliptical trainers offer a full-body workout without straining your joints. That’s why you will see people of all ages and fitness levels looking to jump on one at the gym. Bringing an elliptical into your home gym gives you more opportunities to reap the benefits of this machine every day while minimizing your excuses not to train. Even better, there are some very affordable ellipticals on the market. Our team of expert product testers has personally used the best ellipticals under $1,000 to give you our expert,  » Read more about: Expert Tested: The 7 Best Ellipticals Under $1,000 (2024)  » Read more