Best Ellipticals (exercise Equipment) in 2025
Ellipticals are a popular choice for home fitness, offering a low-impact, full-body workout that's easy on the joints. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just beginning your fitness journey, an elliptical can be a fantastic way to improve cardiovascular health, burn calories, and build muscle. This guide will provide a detailed analysis of the best ellipticals available, considering factors like build quality, features, performance, and value, so you can find the perfect machine for your needs.
Ellipticals provide a way to simulate walking, running, or climbing while minimizing impact, making them suitable for people of all fitness levels. Unlike treadmills, ellipticals engage both the upper and lower body, providing a more complete workout. They also typically take up less space than treadmills. Choosing the right elliptical involves understanding features such as resistance levels, stride length, and console functionality. This guide helps you navigate this landscape, selecting a machine that offers both performance and the features you need to support your fitness goals.
What's In This Guide
- •Our Selection Methodology
- •Selection Criteria
- •NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 - Best Overall
- •Schwinn 470 - Best Value
- •Sole E25 - Best for Comfort and Durability
- •Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Trainer - Best Budget Pick
- •Bowflex Max Trainer Series - Best for Calorie Burning
- •Conclusion & Recommendations
- •Frequently Asked Questions
Our Selection Methodology
Our ranking of the best ellipticals is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from multiple sources. We utilized advanced AI algorithms that processed thousands of data points, including customer reviews from a variety of retailers and expert opinions from fitness professionals. We also considered technical specifications such as flywheel weight, stride length, resistance levels, and console features, along with performance metrics collected during extensive testing. Our AI's role was to weigh these factors, identifying the top performers based on durability, performance, ergonomics, available features, and value. This multi-faceted approach ensured an unbiased and thorough evaluation of each elliptical machine.
Selection Criteria
Build Quality and Durability
We assessed the frame construction, materials used, and overall stability of the elliptical machines. Machines that withstand regular use and have a robust build scored higher.
Performance and Smoothness
This criterion focused on the range of resistance levels, the smoothness of the elliptical motion, and the flywheel weight. Heavier flywheels and a broader range of resistance typically result in a superior experience.
Features and Technology
We examined console features (like heart rate monitoring, pre-programmed workouts, and user profiles) and any included tech integrations (like Bluetooth compatibility with fitness apps).
Ergonomics and Comfort
A comfortable and intuitive workout experience is crucial. We evaluated stride length adjustability, pedal comfort, and handle positioning.
Value for Money
We analyzed the cost of each elliptical relative to its features, performance, and durability, identifying options that provide the best overall value.
Unlock Your Brand's AI Visibility Intelligence with premium reports.
Discover how leading AI models perceive, rank, and recommend your brand compared to competitors.
Our premium subscription delivers comprehensive brand intelligence reports from all major AI models, including competitive analysis, sentiment tracking, and strategic recommendations.
- Monthly competitive intelligence across all major AI models
- Catch when AI models are directing users to incorrect URLs or socials
- Early access to insights from new AI model releases
- Actionable recommendations to improve AI visibility
Just $19.99/month per category, brand, or product. Track your brand, category, and competitors to stay ahead.
Top 5 Ellipticals (exercise Equipment) in 2025
Pros
- Exceptional performance with multiple resistance levels and incline adjustments.
- Integrated iFit workouts.
- Large HD touchscreen display for immersive workouts.
- Heavy-duty construction for stability and durability.
- Adjustable stride length.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to other options.
- Requires more space due to its size.
Key Specifications
The NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 is a top-tier elliptical that offers a premium workout experience. It excels in performance, boasting an impressive 26 levels of digital resistance and an adjustable incline up to 20%. The 14-inch HD touchscreen display provides an immersive experience through iFit integration, offering a vast library of trainer-led workouts and scenic routes. The machine boasts a 325 lb weight capacity. The adjustable stride length (17.5-18.7 inches) accommodates a range of users. The sturdy construction and smooth motion offered by the 20 lb inertia-enhanced flywheel contribute to a truly exceptional workout. While the price is higher than some of the more basic models, the investment is justified considering the features and performance. It’s ideal for users of all fitness levels seeking to optimize their workout.
Pros
- Excellent value for money.
- Smooth and quiet operation.
- Comfortable and user-friendly design.
- Good range of resistance levels.
Cons
- Assembly can be time-consuming.
- Basic console, without interactive features.
Key Specifications
The Schwinn 470 offers a great blend of performance and value, making it an excellent choice for home use. With 25 levels of resistance powered by a high-speed, high-inertia flywheel, this elliptical provides smooth and challenging workouts. Its large articulating footplates and a 20-inch stride length make it comfortable for a wide range of users. The dual track LCD console design lets you monitor multiple workout metrics simultaneously. A notable feature is the built-in heart rate chest strap compatibility, making it easy to monitor your heart rate during workouts. Although it lacks the interactive features of higher-end models, it delivers a solid workout experience for the price, perfect for anyone who is focused on getting work done without the need for tech integration. Overall, it is ideal for those looking for an affordable, high-quality elliptical.
Pros
- Durable construction and very stable.
- Smooth and quiet operation.
- Power incline for workout variety.
- Comfortable 20-inch stride length.
Cons
- Limited incline option.
- Smaller console compared to other models.
Key Specifications
The Sole E25 is designed for home use, focusing on durability and ease of use. It features a solid frame and a fluid motion due to its heavy flywheel, ensuring comfortable operation and provides very stable operation during strenuous workouts. It offers a 20-inch stride length and power adjustable incline to challenge the user. It provides a decent number of pre-programmed workouts and a built-in tablet holder. It is an excellent choice for users of various skill levels who want a reliable and simple-to-use elliptical that focuses on the core principles of a solid workout.
Pros
- Very affordable price.
- Compact design suitable for small spaces.
- Easy to use and operate.
Cons
- Basic console
- Few interactive features
Key Specifications
The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is a budget-friendly option, making it an excellent starting point for those new to ellipticals or watching their budget. It offers 8 levels of magnetic resistance providing a good range of intensity. Its compact design is ideal for smaller spaces. It delivers the basic benefits of an elliptical workout, making training accessible. This model is recommended for beginners, providing a cost-effective approach to getting fit.
Pros
- Maximizes calorie burn.
- Compact design.
- Effective and challenging workout.
Cons
- Requires subscription for all features.
- Assembly can be challenging.
Key Specifications
Bowflex ellipticals are known for their innovative features. The Bowflex Max Trainer series takes a different approach to elliptical workouts. It combines the motion of an elliptical with the calorie-burning potential of a stepper, with a unique vertical stepping motion. It is designed to maximize calorie burn in short bursts of exercise. This model gives you a combination of challenging and full-body workout with its effective resistance system. It is a good choice for any fitness level looking to boost their workout efficiency and increase their calorie burning capability. It is ideal for anyone wanting to maximize their training in terms of time spent.
Conclusion
Choosing the right elliptical can significantly enhance your home fitness routine. We've presented this guide to equip you with the knowledge to find an elliptical machine that aligns perfectly with your fitness goals, space constraints, and budget. Remember to consider factors like resistance levels, stride length, console features, and overall build quality. Don't hesitate to read user reviews and visit showrooms to test out various models before making your final decision. Ultimately, the best elliptical is the one you'll consistently use and enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider when buying an elliptical?
When selecting an elliptical, consider factors such as your budget, training goals, available space, desired features (like resistance levels or heart rate monitoring), and user weight capacity. Also, think about the stability and the overall quality of construction. If you intend on a high level of use, a heavier-duty machine is advisable.
What are the key features to look for in an elliptical machine?
Ellipticals with adjustable inclines let you target different muscle groups, simulating uphill climbs. A longer stride length is generally better for taller individuals, which results in a more natural motion. Consider the flywheel weight; heavier flywheels tend to provide a smoother and more consistent feel.
Are ellipticals a good workout?
Ellipticals are effective for cardiovascular fitness and calorie burning. They are low-impact, reducing stress on joints, and can be a good option for people with knee or joint issues. They work multiple muscle groups, including legs, glutes, arms, and core.