Don’t you just love to find a good deal? Going to thrift stores and buying a lamp for cheap or using a coupon I got in the mail gives me a serotonin rush that not much else will…I just really like saving money. And if you’re reading this roundup of the best budget ellipticals, I assume you like savings, too.
Below, I’ll guide you through some of the best ellipticals on the market that are budget-friendly in nature, telling you exactly why our team of certified personal trainers, competitive athletes, and coaches recommends them. We’ve tested more than 30 elliptical machines, both expensive and inexpensive. Using our in-depth elliptical testing methodology, we rate ellipticals on a scale of 1 to 5 on factors such as:
- Durability: We check to see if an elliptical is sturdy in use, giving top marks to heavy-duty builds with high weight capacities and heavy flywheels.
- Programming: A 3 out of 5 means a machine has some built-in preset programs, but a higher score goes to interactive programming made streamable through different apps and platforms.
- Footprint and Portability: If an elliptical can be moved with one or two people easily enough, it scores a 3 out of 5. Folding, lightweight, or compact ellipticals can score higher in this category.
- Value: Is this machine priced appropriately? Fair pricing gets at least 3 out of 5 stars from us, but higher scores indicate that the machine is packed with features at a competitive price point.
Our team at Garage Gym Reviews has done all the leg work for you (pun definitely intended) when it comes to finding the best budget ellipticals on the market. Along with testing all the products we recommend, we also talk to experts like exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD to provide further details and information on the benefits of these machines.
Plus, we’re a thrifty bunch (we’re writers, after all, not stock brokers) and are always looking to help you spend wisely as you aim to meet your fitness goals. That’s how we were able to help 1,364 people find their ideal elliptical machine in 2024; we’re sure we can help you, too.
5 Best Budget Ellipticals
- Best Budget Elliptical Overall – Horizon EX-59 Elliptical
- Best Value Elliptical – ProForm Carbon EL Elliptical
- Best Quiet Budget Elliptical – Niceday Elliptical Machine
- Best Budget Elliptical for Beginners – Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical
- Best Under-Desk Budget Elliptical – Cubii Move
Current Top Deals
- Horizon EX-59 Elliptical – Up to $100 off cardio products
- ProForm Carbon EL Elliptical – Black Friday Starts Early: Save up to $200 on smart machines and $800 on bu
- Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical – Take 15% off your order | Doorbusters get an additional 15% off their markd
Editor’s Note
In November 2025, we added the Cubii Move as our best under-desk budget elliptical because of its high value and compact footprint—all at an ultra-budget cost. We also revamped our reviews with updated details and ratings to help inform readers on their next elliptical purchase.
Best Budget Elliptical Video Review
Best Budget Elliptical Overall: Horizon Fitness EX-59
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
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.”
At a Glance
- Budget-friendly elliptical with 10 resistance levels
- Smaller flywheel weight than the average
- Slightly-below-average weight capacity
- Lifetime frame warranty
After using and testing the Horizon EX-59, our team is confident it is the best budget elliptical for most homeowners. Priced at around $1,000, the EX-59 received an overall score of 4 out of 5 from our product tester Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, the lead reviewer for our YouTube Channel, GGR Everything.
In particular, Lindsay rated the adjustability and ergonomics of the EX-59 at 4 out of 5, mainly because the elliptical hits a stride length of 18 inches, which is the industry standard and an ideal length for users of most heights. “Not only does it meet standards, but its cushioned pedals feel comfortable and prevent you from slipping, too” Lindsay told me.
Footprint and Portability: 4/5
Ergonomics: 4/5
Durability: 3.5/5
Why We Like The Horizon Fitness EX-59
The EX-59 comes standard with four built-in workout programs—Weight Loss, Distance, Intervals, and Calories. Lindsay did several sessions on the EX-59, browsing through the programs. She told me there was no shifting during use, and transitions in resistance were smooth.
RELATED: Best Elliptical Workout
When it comes to the extras and conveniences, the EX-59 offers a decent number of features, especially at this price point. You’ll find built-in speakers, an audio jack for headphones, a USB charging port, three water bottle holders (in case you’re extra thirsty), and a shelf for your media device. Lindsay rates the conveniences at a 4 out of 5.
According to Lindsay, the foot pedals can accommodate a variety of folks, as well. “They’re large enough if you happen to have larger feet,” she said to me. She also found the textured handles extremely comfortable. Speaking of, the EX-59 has both fixed and moving handlebars, which means you can get a full-body workout on this machine.
I was surprised during testing at how incredibly sturdy this elliptical machine is, despite the smaller flywheel weight. Unless you are intentionally side-to-side jostling it, this is going to stay in place.
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, GGR Everything lead reviewer
Alternatives
Despite the sturdiness during workouts, Lindsay rates the durability at a 3.5 out of 5. “I’d rate it higher, but we usually look for a heavier flywheel weight—at least 16 pounds. The EX-59’s flywheel is 14 pounds.” Even though the score is lower, we still think this machine can hold up for a long while due to its aforementioned sturdiness and 300-pound weight capacity. Plus, it’s backed by a lifetime warranty for the frame.
The tech capabilities are a bit lacking, too, but that’s typical for a budget elliptical. The display on the EX-59 is very basic, featuring three LED windows that spit out your workout metrics. There are buttons numbered 1 through 10, each corresponding with a resistance level, so you can simply push one button instead of pushing an up or down arrow over and over. There are built-in speakers and Bluetooth connectivity, so it gets a score of 3.5 out of 5 for its tech.
For better tech capabilities, we suggest the Sole E25, which scored a 4.5 out of 5 in the category. Just be prepared to spend a little more money for it.
Testing Breakdown
The Horizon EX-59 scored fairly well, earnings 4s in a variety of categories—no easy feat for a budget elliptical.
Vs. The Average
Due to its budget price, the Horizon EX-59 is a smaller elliptical than the average machine, weighing less and with a smaller flywheel. Still, we found it to be rather stable in use, and the frame is backed by a lifetime warranty, well above the average.
| Horizon EX-59 | Average Elliptical | |
| Price | $999 | $1,299 |
| Product Weight | 145 lbs | 179 lbs |
| Flywheel Weight | 14.3 lbs | 19 lbs |
| Dimensions | 73″ L x 24″ W x 66″ H | 62″ L x 27″ W x 67.5″ H |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs | 330 lbs |
| Warranty | Lifetime frame | 3 years |
For more, check out our in-depth Horizon EX-59 elliptical review.
Best Value Elliptical: ProForm Carbon EL
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
At a Glance
- Budget elliptical with iFIT compatibility
- Heavier elliptical than the average
- Below-average weight capacity
- 10-year frame warranty exceeds the standard
Priced under $1,000, the reworked ProForm Carbon EL takes our pick as the best value elliptical, as it has a lot to offer people for its price. First, and perhaps most significantly, it syncs with iFIT, which is interactive, streamable programming featuring certified personal trainers. They lead you through thousands of workouts you can do on the Carbon EL, as well as off-machine workouts like yoga, Pilates, and strength training.
We haven’t tested the new updated Carbon EL (yet), but we have tested an older model. We’ve also had plenty of experience with iFIT programming across some of the best treadmills, exercise bikes, and rowing machines. As such, I feel confident in rating the programming a solid 5 out of 5.
Value: 4.5/5
Footprint and Portability: 3.5/5
Tech Capabilities: 4.5/5
Why We Like The ProForm Carbon EL
A longer stride length is a necessity for taller athletes to get a comfortable, full range of motion when using an elliptical. Many budget ellipticals fall short of the 18- to 20-inch stride length we look for in ellipticals, but that’s not the case with the ProForm Carbon EL. With a 19-inch adjustable stride length, the Carbon EL earns a 4 out of 5 for its adjustability and ergonomics.
RELATED: ProForm Elliptical Reviews
“The elliptical also has fixed and moving handles, so you can adjust your grip and your workout as you go.,” adds our product tester and former pro soccer player Caroline Lubinsky. The Carbon EL even has cushioned foot pedals that offer three adjustable positions, providing a lot of adjustability for a budget elliptical.
With 18 levels of resistance, the Carbon EL exceeds the industry standard, earning a solid 4 out of 5 for customizations (although I should note there aren’t any incline or decline settings).
With a manufacturer’s price of $999, I’m not mad about it. It won’t have a fancy touchscreen like higher-end options, but it’s a sturdy machine with Bluetooth connectivity.
Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1
Alternatives
You should be aware that the Carbon EL weighs more than 200 pounds, so it’s not the most portable elliptical we’ve tested, earning a 3.5 out of 5 for its footprint and portability. Caroline was able to tilt the Carbon EL onto the front rollers and move it, but the elliptical was also on hard ground. It may be a little more challenging to roll the Carbon EL around on carpeting. Ideally, make sure you assemble it where you plan to use it.
Speaking of assembly, Caroline also gave the delivery and setup a 3 out of 5. “It’s just annoying to assemble,” she explained to me. “It’d be best completed with a friend because of the many pieces.”
If you need a more compact solution, check out the Cubii Move. This under-desk elliptical is great for small spaces, although it may feel less like an elliptical and more like a mini stair stepper.
Testing Breakdown
The access to iFIT programming and Bluetooth connectivity is where the Carbon EL shines, making it a high-value elliptical for budget shoppers.
Vs. The Average
The Carbon EL’s flywheel weight and weight capacity are both below the average specifications, but that is to be expected with a budget-friendly machine.
| ProForm Carbon EL | Average Elliptical | |
| Price | $999 | $1,299 |
| Product Weight | 205 lbs (in box) | 179 lbs |
| Flywheel Weight | 15 lbs | 19 lbs |
| Dimensions | 67.3” L x 24.6” W x 66.6” H | 62″ L x 27″ W x 67.5″ H |
| Weight Capacity | 275 lbs | 330 lbs |
| Warranty | 10-year frame, 1-year parts and labor | 3 years |
You can read more in our full ProForm Carbon EL review.
Best Quiet Budget Elliptical: NiceDay Elliptical Machine
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
At a Glance
- Budget elliptical that uses magnetic resistance
- Lighter product weight than the average
- More compact than the standard elliptical
- Above-average weight capacity
The NiceDay Elliptical Machine has been referred to as “quiet as a church mouse” in our reviews, and for good reason: it’s virtually silent in operation. GGR Senior Director of Content Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, CF-L1, USAW-L1, tested this elliptical, and says, “This is one of the quietest machines I’ve ever been on.” Why is it silent? There is no motor and no electricity that runs to the NiceDay.
Instead, the basic display is battery-operated, still presenting basic stats like distance, speed, calories, and pulse—all earning the NiceDay elliptical a 4 out of 5 for tech capabilities.
Customizations: 4/5
Durability: 4/5
Ergonomics: 3.5/5
Why We Like The NiceDay Elliptical Machine
If you want to get a quick workout on the best quiet elliptical while others are sleeping, the NiceDay Elliptical CT11 can be an excellent option. Plus, the machine doesn’t need to be plugged in to work, so you can move it to any corner of your house that suits you without worrying about finding an outlet.
Kate rates the portability of the NiceDay machine at 4.5 out of 5, adding, “It’s smaller than commercial-grade ellipticals and weighs around 100 pounds, so it should be pretty easy to move, especially with its front wheels.”
RELATED: Best Compact Ellipticals
There’s more to love—the NiceDay Elliptical has oversized pedals to fit a variety of foot sizes, and there are 16 levels of resistance to choose from, manually adjusted with a turn of the knob. Kate tells me she noticed a definite step up between each resistance level, so she rates the NiceDay Elliptical Machine at a 4 out of 5 for its customizations.
I did a 15-minute interval workout, rotating through all the resistance settings, pedaling forward, pedaling backward. This machine is largely just OK, but it’s excellent if you want a basic and very quiet elliptical.
Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, GGR Senior Director of Content
Alternatives
Although the brand brags about the 400-pound weight capacity, we’re a little skeptical of these claims. Kate did note that the handles were a bit wobbly the higher the resistance got, and she noticed some shift while using it. “There was some definite play in the structure while using it, and I’m well under half of the max weight,” she tells me.
That said, the CT11 is constructed with a steel frame, so it should hold up over extended use. Plus, NiceDay claims on the brand’s Amazon page to “pay for all of the replacement costs if customers need replacements.” That’s a solid deal if they follow through on this promise.
This may not be the ideal elliptical for taller athletes, considering the shorter stride length of 15.5 inches. We typically recommend a 18- to 20-inch stride length for taller folks, so if you have long legs, you may need to look elsewhere.
For a longer stride length, check out the ProForm Carbon EL. With an adjustable 19-inch stride length, it should be comfortable for a variety of users.
Testing Breakdown
The NiceDay Elliptical Machine mostly suffered from its dynamic programming—or lack thereof. Below is how it scored, overall.
Vs. The Average
Although the NiceDay Elliptical CT11 is a smaller machine than the average with a lighter weight and footprint, it still boasts an above-average weight capacity of 400 pounds.
| NiceDay Elliptical CT11 | Average Elliptical | |
| Price | $799.99 | $1,299 |
| Product Weight | 106 lbs | 179 lbs |
| Flywheel Weight | 16 lbs | 19 lbs |
| Dimensions | 42” L x 21” W x 61” H | 62″ L x 27″ W x 67.5″ H |
| Weight Capacity | 400 lbs | 330 lbs |
| Warranty | 1 year | 3 years |
Take a look at our full NiceDay Elliptical Machine review.
Best Budget Elliptical for Beginners: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
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.”
At a Glance
- Budget elliptical priced under $500
- Average weight capacity
- Below-average flywheel weight
- 3-year frame warranty meets the standard coverage
New to working out and don’t know where to start? Consider picking up the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 magnetic elliptical. This cardio machine is ideal for beginners because it has 24 built-in workouts, earning a 4 out of 5 for its programming. Plus, it’s extremely affordable at under $500 on Amazon.
RELATED: Best Ellipticals Under $500
Kate Meier, GGR Senior Director of Content and certified personal trainer, tested this elliptical and said that it’s what you would expect for a compact, budget elliptical. “I liked this a lot more than I thought,” she told me. “I could move forward, backward, and pick up the pace without too much wobbling.”
Dynamic Programming: 4/5
Durability: 5/5
Footprint and Portability: 4/5
Why We Like The Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Machine
My favorite part of the Sunny Health and Fitness elliptical machine is that it’s easy to use; simply select one of the available options and stride away. There’s no complicated mumbo-jumbo that makes working out harder than it needs to be.
The console isn’t anything fancy—it just displays basic metrics and basic graphics—but for beginners, it doesn’t need to be high-tech. When you’re ready to kick things up a notch, the Sunny elliptical has 16 different resistance options that can easily be utilized via the display, earning the elliptical a 4 out of 5 for customizations.
Plus, this machine has a user weight capacity of 330 pounds, which is above the industry standard of 275 to 300 pounds and right at the average of machines we’ve tested. That’s impressive for a machine that weighs just over 100 pounds. Kate noticed that there wasn’t any shaking at top speeds or resistance levels, either, so we rated the durability at 5 out of 5.
This elliptical hits the mark for an easy-to-use machine that doesn’t have any fancy extras. It’s quiet, too—a great option for someone needing to do a full-body workout without waking up others.
Coop Mitchell, GGR founder and fitness equipment expert
Alternatives
Despite the impressive durability, taller people may find this machine a bit too compact for them, as the 15.5-inch stride length will keep strides on the shorter side. The less-than-ideal length in stride leads us to rate the ergonomics at 3.5 out of 5.
Kate wasn’t very excited about her experience with building the SF-E3912, as well. “The instructions could’ve been clearer, as they packed three or four steps into one, and the diagrams were complicated,” she explained to me. The assembly took about 90 minutes by herself, and shipping was free, so we still rate the assembly process at a 4 out of 5.
If you’re a taller person, I’d recommend a stride length of about 18 inches, at least, like the length you’d find on the Horizon Fitness EX-59. It also supports users up to 300 pounds and is covered by a lifetime frame warranty.
Testing Breakdown
Aside from its shorter stride length, the Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical scored pretty well in our testing.
Vs. The Average
Priced at $480 on Amazon, this elliptical machine may be the best budget elliptical under $500, especially considering its solid 330-pound weight capacity.
| Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Machine | Average Elliptical | |
| Price | $480 | $1,299 |
| Product Weight | 104.8 lbs | 179 lbs |
| Flywheel Weight | 13 lbs | 19 lbs |
| Dimensions | 55” L x 23” W x 64.5” H | 62″ L x 27″ W x 67.5″ H |
| Weight Capacity | 330 lbs | 330 lbs |
| Warranty | 3-year frame, 180-day parts and components | 3 years |
Find out more in our full Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical review.
Best Under-Desk Budget Elliptical: Cubii Move
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
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.”
At a Glance
- Ultra-budget under-desk elliptical
- Average weight capacity
- Lighter than your average under-desk elliptical
- Warranty meets the standard for an under-desk cardio machine
Wanting a feasible way to work out while you’re working in the office? You could try out one of the best under-desk treadmills, or you can try out our pick for the best under-desk elliptical: The Cubii Move.
We rate the value high at a 4.5 out of 5. Our product tester mentioned to me, “It’s nice; you can get some training in while also attending digital meetings—all for less than $200.”
Footprint and Portability: 5/5
Ergonomics: 4/5
Durability: 3.5/5
Why We Like The Cubii Move
The reason you get an under-desk cardio machine like the Cubii Move is for its compact footprint, and here, it doesn’t disappoint. The machine weighs just over 17 pounds and is under 10 inches tall, making it a compact elliptical trainer. “There aren’t any wheels on it, but it’s light enough for most people to handle and move around in your home or office,” our tester added. It easily gets a 5 out of 5 for its portability.
Our product tester also rated the adjustability and ergonomics at a 4 out of 5. “The pedaling is smooth and feels comfortable—worthwhile for under-desk elliptical training,” they told me. Being a compact elliptical, don’t expect the stride length to be large (Cubii’s website says it’s about 6 inches each foot), but it should feel like a comfortable stride while seated.
I also appreciate the quiet nature of its operation; it won’t disrupt anyone during meetings, digital or otherwise.
Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC, GGR Editor
Alternatives
I get that this is an ultra-budget, compact workout solution, but I still would’ve liked to have seen more customizations, which we rated at 3 out of 5. The Cubii Move comes with six levels of resistance, but our tester had to leave it set on the highest settings for their workout. “I hardly felt any difference between the levels,” they added.
Additionally, the durability is what you’d expect for a budget-friendly under-desk machine; we give it a 3.5 out of 5. There’s a lot of plastic in the construction, along with some metal, so there’s a chance of cracking the plastic if you’re not careful. We still expect it to last after testing it out, so long as you refrain from standing or jumping on the unit—which Cubii warns against, anyway.
For another under-desk elliptical, check out the Stamina Inmotion Elliptical, which you can typically find priced just under the Cubii Move.
Testing Breakdown
For an under-desk elliptical, the Cubii Move is a solid option, as seen in our scoring below.
Vs. The Average
Obviously, this is a compact, ultra-budget option to your typical elliptical, but even when compared to your average under-desk ellipticals, the Cubii Move is still a compact option. It’s lighter and smaller than the standard, all while providing a 300-pound weight capacity.
| Cubii Move | Average Under-Desk Elliptical | |
| Price | $160 | $197 |
| Product Weight | 17.6 lbs | 26.2 lbs |
| Flywheel Weight | N/A | N/A |
| Dimensions | 21.7″ L x 19.7″ W x 9.7″ H | 23″ L x 17″ W x 12.6″ H |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs | 300 lbs |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
To see how the Cubii Move compares to the original Cubii JR, check out our full Cubii JR review.
Other Budget Ellipticals We Tested and Researched
Not every elliptical trainer that’s priced low can make our best-of list. Here are a few other elliptical machines that we researched or tested that have been left off of the list, whether it’s due to issues with durability, features, or an inflated price.
- Sole E25: We really like the Sole E25—so much so that it sits at the top of our list of best ellipticals—and it was in this roundup as the best budget ellipticals with an incline, too. However, the price has risen to about $1,300, which puts it just outside the price range of a budget-friendly elliptical. We still think it has great value though; you can check out our Sole E25 elliptical review for more info.
- Stamina Inmotion Elliptical: This under-desk elliptical on Amazon is made to be used while sitting (although there is a stock photo of a woman standing while using it…a recipe for disaster, if you ask me). While it’s an ultra-budget option, most folks are probably looking for a larger unit than this compact piece of fitness equipment.
- Schwinn Fitness 411 Compact Elliptical Machine: Although I love the 18-inch stride length and strong warranty, the Schwinn 411 is apparently difficult to use. Multiple purchasers of various fitness levels complained about the resistance levels being too hard, even at the lowest level.
- NordicTrack AirGlide 14i: While NordicTrack brings good value to the table, a lot of the brand’s ellipticals simply won’t be a good fit for people on a budget. The AirGlide is one of their more affordable elliptical machines, for example, and is still priced over $1,500. Plus, it’s currently out of stock.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Budget Ellipticals
At Garage Gym Reviews, we take our testing and reviewing of fitness equipment very seriously. Hours of research and exercising go into us evaluating each piece of equipment on our site, whether it’s the best exercise bikes, dumbbells, or protein powder.
For budget picks, price was obviously a big factor—we favored ellipticals that were priced below $1,000. That said, we still followed our testing methodology to ensure we were bringing some of the best budget ellipticals to the table. When determining which ellipticals would make it into this roundup, we examined the following categories (along with our general workout experiences), rating each category on a scale of 1 to 5:
Delivery and Setup
Since elliptical trainers can be bigger pieces of equipment, we like to see threshold deliveries where the machine is left at your doorstep instead of at the end of the driveway or sidewalk. A 3 out of 5 means that it was delivered to your door, and two people are able to build it within two hours. Free shipping, optional delivery services, or issues we had during the assembly can impact the machine’s score here.
Footprint and Portability
How big is the machine? We take a look at the amount of space needed for an elliptical, as well as how easily it can be moved around. Our team gives a score of 3 out of 5 to an elliptical that can be moved around easily by one or two people, even if the elliptical is large and cumbersome. A higher score is given if the elliptical is particularly compact, can fold, or has transport wheels to make moving or storing it a breeze.
Durability
We try to spend as much time as we can with every product we test, but not every product is able to be tested long-term. You and other customers will be using these products for years to come, however, so we test out our cardio machines for durability as best as we can, rating the score based on how well it should hold up with consistent use.
For an elliptical, a 3-out-of-5 score means that the weight capacity is at or exceeds 275 pounds, the flywheel weight is at least 16 pounds (which will help weight down the elliptical, making it more stable), and we experience little to no wobble or shifting during our workouts with the machine. Higher specs and a high-quality, commercial-grade construction usually lead a higher score.
Budget ellipticals are made to be affordable, and durability is typically one area companies will make sacrifices to keep the cost low. On the majority of budget elliptical trainers, you can expect smaller flywheels and lower weight capacities.
Customizations
More customization means more variety to your cardio workout, so we look at the different settings and adjustments available in each elliptical. A trainer with at least 12 levels of adjustable resistance gets a score of 3 out of 5, but more levels of resistance, incline or decline settings, and adjustable pedal settings can contribute to a higher score.
RELATED: Best Ellipticals with Incline
Adjustability and Ergonomics
Regardless of the type of full-body workout machine you’re using, you really want the experience to be comfortable. Because of this, we take a look at the ergonomics of an elliptical, as well as how well it can accommodate different body types.
Ellipticals earn a 3 out of 5 if they have both fixed and moving handlebars, oversized pedals to accommodate most feet, and a stride length of 18 or 20 inches. Cushioned foot pedals, soft handle grips, longer strides, and incline settings can help boost the score.
Tech Capabilities
The technological capabilities of a cardio machine is really where high-end elliptical machines can shine, but I wouldn’t expect the same level of tech features with budget ellipticals.
A score of 3 out of 5 means that an elliptical has a basic display that features basic metrics: speed, time, distance, calories, etc. It should also have heart rate monitoring capabilities via on-machine pulse sensors.
Higher scores go to higher-end ellipticals with premium features like a touchscreen display, built-in speakers, and streamable classes.
Conveniences
We define conveniences as features that are nice to have in your elliptical, although they aren’t a necessity for the elliptical’s functionality. We rate ellipticals at a 3 out of 5 if they have at least one water bottle holder, a safety stop key, and a media shelf for viewing and storing your smart device. More features will lead to a higher score.
Budget ellipticals will often have the basic features, but more often than not, you won’t find budget-friendly machines with excessive extras.
Dynamic Programming
Most ellipticals, and cardio machines in general, will have some built-in, preset workout programs for you to follow. The quality and quantity of programs can vary based on the company and machine, but we give a 3 out of 5 to ellipticals with a handful of workouts that are easily accessed through the console.
Value
Does the price make sense for the elliptical you’re getting? We compare elliptical machines to similar models on the market to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck. An elliptical gets a 3-out-of-5 rating if it’s priced fairly, but may not have any extras or features at that price point. A higher score goes to ellipticals that are packed with features and priced competitively.
Financing, Warranty, and Returns
To score a 3 out of 5 here, ellipticals need to meet the industry standard for policies on financing, warranties and returns. This includes, at minimum:
- 0% financing for qualified buyers
- At least a three-year warranty
- 30-day returns (that may require you paying return shipping)
To score higher, an elliptical can have better policies, such as a longer warranty or free return shipping.
Customer Service
We want to make sure customer service is helpful and knowledgeable about their products, so our testers will often reach out to customer service staff to gauge the interaction. A 3-out-of-5 score is given when customer service can be reached a few ways—phone, email, or contact form—and offers decent support. A higher score goes to exceptional service, or additional ways to contact them, like a live chat.
Customer Reviews
Typically, we will take this score directly from the actual customer reviews on the company website, or a third-party retailer like Amazon.
After extensive testing and scoring each category, we’ll average each elliptical’s scores to determine an overall rating, which helps us determine our best-of lists.
Benefits of Budget Ellipticals
Why the heck should you spend your hard-earned money on an elliptical or cross-trainer? I’m glad you asked! Here, we’ll go through some of the benefits of ellipticals, budget-friendly options, and the benefits of cardio exercise. I also talked with NASM-certified personal trainer Anthony O’Reilly to get his thoughts on the many benefits.
RELATED: NASM Review
A Money-Saver
The most obvious benefit of budget elliptical trainers is the amount of money you can save. Obviously, you get what you pay for, so I’d warn against paying too little for your elliptical machine. That said, there are plenty of budget ellipticals available that have great value due to packing in plenty of quality features at a low price point.
Improved Cardiovascular Fitness
“One of the main reasons to invest in an elliptical machine is it helps get your heart rate pumping, which leads to improved stamina and overall cardio performance,” Anthony says. “This has been shown to decrease the risk of diseases like diabetes and heart disease, and improve multiple health markers from insulin resistance to lowering your resting heart rate.”
Cardiovascular exercise performed at a moderate intensity has been shown to improve heart health in many ways—lowering your risk of heart disease, regulating blood pressure, and keeping cholesterol at healthy levels—according to a study from the Internal Journal of Physical Medicine1.
Anthony continues, “Cardio is essentially resistance training for your heart; you put it under stress to make it stronger.” For those who want to train for their heart health, ellipticals can be a solid option.
Low-Impact Exercise
Ellipticals are a perfect choice for those recovering from injury or those who have sensitive joints. “Because your feet aren’t crashing down with every stride, like they are during outdoor running or on a treadmill, your knees and ankles don’t take as much impact,” Anthony says. “This can also lead to longer cardio workout sessions, which in turn could lead to increased caloric expenditure.”
Don’t let the low impact and lower intensity of an elliptical fool you though. Exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, explains, “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.” Harvard Health Publishing2 shares this sentiment, as they showed that a 185-pound athlete is able to burn more calories in a 30-minute session on an elliptical than a similar timeframe on a rowing machine.
A Time-Saving Full-Body Workout
Because you’re simultaneously using your upper- and lower-body muscles, you can get a total-body workout in a shorter amount of time.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Budget Elliptical
Everyone is looking for different things when it comes to purchasing an elliptical for home use. However, here are some of the most common factors to keep in mind when you’re thinking about adding an exercise machine to your home gym—especially when on a budget.
Space Constraints
Some of us have giant, dedicated basements, garages, and rooms for our home gyms. Others have a small corner of their living room to fit a piece of cardio equipment. Whatever your situation is, make sure to measure the space beforehand so you know the maximum footprint your elliptical can have.
Price Range
What might be considered an affordable elliptical to me might not be to you. Determining your price range ahead of time will keep you from overspending. If you’re here on our page of budget ellipticals, you’ve probably already considered the costs, but it’s still important to note.
As a pro tip, check out our deals pages and keep your eyes peeled for holiday savings to help keep some cash in your pocket. Plus, many retailers now offer excellent financing options, so you can break down your payment into manageable chunks.
Warranty
Typically, we like to see a warranty that is at least 10 years (if not more) on the frame of an elliptical. However, keep in mind the price of the machine, as you generally won’t find a top-of-the-line warranty on an ultra-budget elliptical machine—you’ll have to pick and choose your battles. That said, it’s not impossible to find a solid multi-year warranty on an elliptical frame.
Resistance Levels and Incline Options
For those who want to up the ante on their elliptical workouts, make sure your new cardio machine has adjustable resistance or incline options. The majority of budget ellipticals have resistance knobs, but a best budget elliptical with incline options is a rarer find.
Stride Length
If you’re a shorter person, the stride length of your machine will matter quite a bit less. However, if you’re tall (close to or exceeding 6 feet tall), you may find you are most comfortable on an elliptical that has an 18- to 20-inch stride length. This can be more difficult to find with budget home gym equipment, but there are some options available (even within our top picks).
Portability
You’ll likely want to consider how easily an elliptical you plan to purchase can move around or store between uses, especially if you live in a multi-story building or home without an elevator. Ideally, make sure your potential elliptical has transport wheels to help it move around a room and consider the total weight of the machine.
FAQs About the Best Budget Ellipticals
What is the best budget elliptical?
If you’re on a budget, our top recommendation is the Horizon Fitness EX-59 for most folks, as it has a respectable 300-pound weight capacity and an 18-inch stride length, meaning it’ll suit a variety of users and body types. The lifetime warranty on the frame is a nice touch, too, although there’s no warranty on the elliptical’s flywheel.
Which elliptical is best for home use?
While the ideal elliptical for you will depend on factors such as your budget, home gym space, and fitness goals, we like to recommend the Sole E25 as the best elliptical for most people. While I wouldn’t call this budget-friendly at $1,300, the E25 is still fairly affordable and has helpful conveniences along with solid preset programming, making it a high-value elliptical machine.
How much should I spend on an elliptical?
The average elliptical costs around $1,300, with ultra-budget options costing less than $500 and premium options costing $2,000 or more. Typically, a pricier elliptical will have more features and better durability, but some may simply be outside of your budget. Most budget options are less than $1,000 and will still work great, although you won’t get luxury features like a longer stride or high-definition touchscreen.
References
- Agarwal S. K. (2012). Cardiovascular benefits of exercise. International journal of general medicine, 5, 541–545. https://doi.org/10.2147/IJGM.S30113
- 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
