The elliptical machine is one of those foundational cardio machines you can find in most training centers next to the treadmills, indoor cycling bikes and rowing machines. Its low-impact nature and full-body experience can be a comfortable yet effective way to work up a sweat. But these perks don’t require a trip to your local brick-and-mortar gym anymore — they can be reaped right at home. All that’s needed is a suitable home gym space, access to a power outlet — and a desire to change up your cardiovascular training.
Products in the Guide
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NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical
BEST OVERALL ELLIPTICAL
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Sole E35
BEST UPGRADE ELLIPTICAL
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Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical
BEST BUDGET ELLIPTICAL
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Schwinn 470
MOST COMFORTABLE ELLIPTICAL
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Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical
BEST ELLIPTICAL FOR BEGINNERS
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NordicTrack FS10i
MOST VERSATILE ELLIPTICAL
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BowFlex Max Trainer M9
BEST ELLIPTICAL FOR SMALL SPACES
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Cubii JR2
BEST UNDER-DESK ELLIPTICAL
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As you might suspect, though, there’s more than one elliptical to choose from — and the differences between models can be difficult to interpret for novice athletes. In order to help keep your home gym machine from turning into an expensive coat rack, we’ve taken to our studios, training centers, basements and beyond to determine the best ellipticals on the market today.
How We Tested
While personally comparing ellipticals side-by-side simply wasn’t feasible, given my tight living conditions, I have been able to train atop a handful of these machines for the sake of this guide. Sessions were conducted to get a feel for functionality and comfort, along with how convenient and effective the embedded features are. I also noted the overall footprint of each machine, because there’s no sense in investing in an expensive piece of equipment if there’s no room to house it. Adjustability and durability were also considered in building out this roundup, too.