Tested and Reviewed: The 13 Best Cardio Machines for 2024

Finding the best cardio machine for your home gym really comes down to your workout preferences. There are so many different kinds of cardio machines–rowers, ellipticals, treadmills, air bikes, stationary bikes, and ski machines. It would be almost impossible for us to pick just one overarching best cardio machine because each one does something different.

Our team at GGR, which consists of certified personal trainers, triathletes, marathoners, CrossFit L1 trainers, and elite athletes, have personally tested more than 100 cardio machines. We use an in-depth fitness equipment testing methodology to rate machines from 1 to 5 on factors that include:

• Durability: We look for weight capacity of 300+ pounds, and we test machines at high speeds to note any shaking
• Workout Programming: We favor machines that offer preset workout programs
• Technology: We rate machines high for Bluetooth connectivity to apps, heart rate monitoring, and easy-to-operate consoles
• Ergonomics: We assess how the machine feels and its ability to adjust to accommodate a variety of body types

We combine our personal experience with machines with factual knowledge of what makes a cardio machine great to settle on the below list of the best cardio machines.

The 13 Best Cardio Machines

• Best Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
• Best Folding Treadmill: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
• Best Exercise Bike: Peloton Bike
• Best Exercise Bike for the Money: NordicTrack S22i
• Best Rowing Machine: Concept 2 RowErg
• Best Compact Elliptical: ProForm Carbon HIIT H10
• Best Budget Air Bike: Titan Fitness Fan Bike
• Best Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
• Best Under-Desk Cardio Machine: WalkingPad Folding Treadmill
• Best Smart Rowing Machine: Hydrow Rower
• Best Budget Elliptical: Horizon Fitness EX-59
• Best Full-Body Workout Cardio Machine: Bells of Steel Blitz Bike
• Best Vertical Climber: MaxiClimber

Best Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Good for: People who want interactive programming with versatility

Best Treadmill

NordicTrack Commercial 1750

GGR Score: 4.5

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Product Highlights

• Spacious running deck
• Compatible with iFIT
• 14-inch touchscreen
• Incline and decline training
• Financing available

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compatible with iFIT
• 3.5 CHP motor
• Free trial of iFIT subscription with purchase
• Treadmill with incline and decline training
• Foldable to save space (EasyLift Assist)
• Run that feels similar to road running
• Financing options available through NordicTrack
• Generous speed range
• Wide running deck
• Cooling fan

Cons

• Big footprint
• Heavy and not the easiest to move
• Price is around $2,000
• Warranty is voided if the treadmill is used/stored in a garage

Bottom Line

If you’re looking to add a workhorse of a treadmill to your home gym, we recommend the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.

If you’re looking for the best treadmill, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is it. Several people on our team have used it and gave it perfect 5 out of 5 marks for programming, durability, conveniences, technology, and ergonomics.

“I have personally tested probably two dozen treadmills, and the 1750 is still my favorite,” says GGR’s Head of Content Kate Meier. “Probably the coolest feature is decline training, something most treadmills in this price range don’t offer.”

The 1750 has a great -3% decline to 12% incline range as well as speeds of 0 to 12 MPH. Plus, it comes with a free 30-day trial of iFIT, which is interactive, live and on-demand programming for cardio workouts as well as strength, HIIT, yoga, and more.

iFIT is right up there with Peloton programming. There are hundreds of classes and you get to utilize all of them with the subscription. Once your free trial is up, you can continue with a family iFIT membership for $39 per month or $396 per year.

At just under $2,300, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill isn’t exactly a budget option. If you’re looking for a more affordable version, check out our NordicTrack Commercial 1250 review, and you’ll find a very similar machine at a slightly lower price point.

With the 1750, you’re paying for two major components: the machine’s technology and its exceptional construction.

Technology-wise, you’ll find a 14-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth speakers, cooling fans, and app compatibility. The picture quality is nice and I like being able to see information about my distance, heart rate, calories burned, speed, and time elapsed.

In our testing, we found that there is also little to no shaking on this tread when running, even at high speeds. It features a spacious 22-inch-by-60-inch running surface, ideal for even tall runners. Also, there is a 300-pound weight capacity on this machine, which comes with a 10-year warranty on the frame.

I wouldn’t recommend this treadmill if you’re tight on space. The 1750 has a large footprint and is heavy at 339 pounds. You’ll also need to make sure you’re near an electrical outlet since it needs to be plugged in to work. I also wouldn’t suggest the Commercial 1750 to those who don’t want to pay additional money for interactive programming. Without iFIT, there are only a few free built-in workouts you can do.

For more on this machine, read my full NordicTrack Commercial 1750 treadmill review.

Best Folding Treadmill: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

Good for: People who want an affordable treadmill that folds.

Best Folding Treadmill

Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Priced under $1,000
• Spacious 60-inch running deck
• Bluetooth connectivity
• QuickDial controls for both the speed and incline

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 60” running surface
• 3.0 CHP motor
• Bluetooth connectivity with apps like Zwift, Peloton, and Nike Running Club
• 325 lb weight limit

Cons

• Heavy machine at over 250 lbs
• No included touchscreen
• 3-year parts warranty and 1-year labor warranties are less than the Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill

Bottom Line

For under $1,000, the Horizon 7.0 AT is a great option for people who want to use their treadmill to run.

We formerly had the Sole F63 in this spot, which is a great machine, but due to a better price of under $1,000, the Horizon 7.0 AT takes the title. It folds using a hydraulic system, which means it won’t slam to the ground and endanger anyone. The deck lifts and locks into place when not in use, which can save space.

“I was pleased with my overall workout experience,” says Caroline Lubinsky, GGR product tester who gave this a 4.5 out of 5 in the workout performance category. “The deck of the treadmill is great, and the machine did not shake while in use.”

The Horizon 7.0 has a lifetime frame and motor warranty plus overall durable construction, making it one of the best folding treadmills. There are a variety of nice conveniences that make this treadmill a great deal — a cooling fan, two speakers, a device holder, and a USB port to charge your devices

With a user capacity of 325 pounds, this treadmill supports a range of users. In testing, we also found the general setup to be very user-friendly and a good option for beginners. You just plug the treadmill into the wall, make sure the safety key is in place, and start one of pre-programmed workouts.

Horizon does not disclose motor size, but we do feel this is a machine that can handle running.

The 7.0 AT has a spacious running deck at 20 inches wide by 60 inches long, and I like how cushioned it feels. The speed range of up to 12 MPH is great for just about anyone, and you also get up to a 15% incline for hill training.

The lack of interactive programming can be a con for some people, but if you like doing your own workouts, you probably won’t miss it. You can also sync this treadmill with apps like Zwift or Peloton and stream it from your own device.

Check out our full Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill review.

Best Exercise Bike: Peloton Bike

Good for: People who enjoy workout classes on their cardio equipment

Best Bike for the Money

Peloton Indoor Exercise Bike

GGR Score: 4.33

Community Score: 5

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Product Highlights

• 21.5" touchscreen for immersive training
• Live classes and on-demand cycling sessions
• Leaderboard-style competition
• Adjustable screen, seat, and handlebars
• 5-megapixel front-facing camera
• Bluetooth connectivity

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Immersive experience
• Access to thousands of classes, challenges, and a large variety of workout options
• Compact footprint
• Sleek design
• Financing options
• “Try before you buy” option

Cons

• Disappointing warranty
• Membership is required to use bike
• Expensive
• Shipping is not included

Bottom Line

One of the more expensive options for virtual biking, the Peloton Bike is designed to be an all-in-one fitness solution on a high-quality cardio machine. You’re paying not only for the bike, but the unique training experience it makes accessible from the comfort of your home.

While Peloton is mostly known for the live classes and programming that made it a household name, we’re also big fans of the bike itself. Nicole Davis, a certified personal trainer and GGR head of content, says it’s one of the smoothest exercise bikes she’s used, and she’s been on no fewer than a dozen. It’s also one of the most challenging bikes, she says.

“Because of the magnetic resistance, each tiny twist of the knob provides just a bit more for you to pedal against,” she says in her Peloton Bike review. She recommends swapping the seat for something a little more comfortable because the one it comes with is a little too firm for her taste, though people trying to replicate the feeling of a road bike may not mind.

The seat can be adjusted vertically and horizontally to fit people of most sizes, though the 297-pound weight capacity is about 50 pounds lighter than the industry average. The handlebars can also be adjusted, but only vertically, so we’re rating this bike’s adjustability a 4 out of 5.

Some people may be concerned about the bike’s longevity, which is an understandable concern. There have been reports of pedals falling off and other hardware issues, but Nicole and other GGR testers have used Peloton for several years and the bike has held up just fine. It’s a well-built bike with a powder coated steel frame, aluminum pedals, magnetic resistance, and a sturdy belt drive system. Still, because of the prior recalls and customer concerns we’re going to rate the durability a 4 out of 5.

One area where the Peloton gets a perfect 5 out of 5 is the aforementioned programming. GGR tester Allie has been following Peloton Senior Instructor Alex Toussaint for nearly two years. “He does a phenomenal job making me feel like he’s right in the living room with me in my ear kicking my butt,” she says. The Peloton app contains thousands of classes for bikers, runners, and anyone else who’s looking for some extra motivation to hit their fitness goals.

It is, however, an extra expense on top of an already pricey bike ($1,500 just for the bike). An all-access membership costs $44 per month, which doesn’t include the Delta cycling cleats you’ll have to buy to pedal. To be fair, that price is still less than what you’d pay at most in-person bike studios.

Best Exercise Bike for the Money: NordicTrack S22i

Good for: People who want the best exercise bike on the market today

Best Bike for the Money

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

GGR Score: 4.5

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Product Highlights

• 24 digital resistance levels
• Incline and decline adjustments
• Fully rotating touchscreen

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Large 22" smart HD touchscreen
• Incline and decline ability
• Compatible with iFIT
• Adjustable seat
• Adjustable handles
• Dual-sided pedals
• Fan
• Comes with 2 3-lb dumbbells
• 24 digital resistance levels

Cons

• Expensive
• iFIT membership not necessary, but most beneficial
• Difficult to assemble
• Can’t be stored in the garage (brand states doing so will void the bike’s warranty)
• Hard to move and weighs more than 200 pounds

Bottom Line

This is the bike to get if you want an indoor cycling bike with interactive programming, incline and decline capabilities, and all the extras.

With an overall rating from our expert testers of 4.5 out of 5, the NordicTrack S22i is one of the best exercise bikes on the market today. Although there are certainly better-value exercise bikes, the $2,000 NordicTrack S22i still packs a lot of bang for your buck, offering silent magnetic resistance for a quiet ride as well as a cooling fan.

However, its coolest feature is the incline and decline settings that help simulate outdoor bike rides, a feature that is rare on stationary bikes. Thanks to its compatibility with iFIT, changing speeds and incline can be controlled by the iFIT program, or you can do it manually.

“The adjustment feels smoother when controlled via iFIT than when done manually,” says Kate Meier, GGR’s director of content who personally assembled and tested this bike.

That, combined with the 24 digital resistance levels, is enough to earn it a 5 out of 5 on customizations.

The iFIT programming is another reason why I love this bike so much. It rivals the Peloton with its world-class programming. The instructors are thorough and engaging, the workouts are effective, and you’ll never run out of options.

The 22-inch touchscreen is beautiful, and it fully rotates, which allows you to follow along for any off-bike workouts. Speaking of the screen, it’s pretty big and weighs a lot, and causes some problems when you’re trying to move the bike, Kate warns. On that note, the NordicTrack S22i weighs nearly 200 pounds and doesn’t have a handle, so it can be difficult to move, which is why we rate it a 3.5 out of 5 for portability.

While I didn’t have this experience, some of the GGR testers found the seat to be pretty hard. Kate, a certified personal trainer, says, “If that matters to you, you either might need to wear padded shorts or swap the seat out for a more comfortable option, though the slider-style seat rails might make finding a seat that fits difficult.”

The assembly process is complex, as the large screen can be difficult to wire and attach on your own, Kate says. NordicTrack does offer professional assembly for an additional $199.

Read our full NordicTrack S22i review for my full thoughts on this bike.

Best Rowing Machine: Concept 2 RowErg Rower

Good for: A serious rower who needs durability and quality.

Best Rowing Machine

Concept2 RowErg

GGR Score: 4.6

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Product Highlights

• Priced around $1,000
• Uses air resistance generated by the fanned flywheel
• Advanced PM5 Performance Monitor
• Low impact full-body workout fitness machine
• Lightweight and easily portable
• Can be broken down into two pieces for storage
• Can also be hung for storage

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Best-selling rowing machine in the world
• Easy assembly
• Accommodates users up to 6.6 feet tall and 500-pound weight
• Ergonomic seat and handlebar
• Seat is 14”
• 10-degree angle on handle for natural grip
• Air-resistance
• Adjustable airflow
• Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) monitor
• Nickel-plated steel chain
• Adjustable footrests
• Easy to store
• Limited 5-year warranty

Cons

• Priced around $1,000
• Few built-in workouts

Bottom Line

The Concept 2 Model D Rower is the best rowing machine we've tested and reviewed, including those that are much more expensive like the WaterRower. There's a reason you can find Concept 2 products in nearly every gym in the world, including CrossFit Boxes, and home gyms. After having the Model D for over two years, we are still as satisfied with it as we were on day one.

Rowing workouts are some of the best cardiovascular activities because you’re engaging all parts of your upper and lower body including your hamstrings, quads, core, lats, and glutes. The Concept 2 RowErg (formerly called the Model D Rower) is a favorite amongst serious and novice rowers because it is commercial-grade and easy to use.

“I’ve logged probably thousands of miles on the RowErg,” says GGR Head of Content Kate Meier, who has owned her Concept2 for nearly five years. “It still operates just as well as it did on Day One.”

The star of the Concept2 RowErg show is the PM5 performance monitor. No, it’s not a fancy touchscreen, but it does have preset workouts, all the metrics you could ever want, and even games to play. Metrics include the usual time, distance, and pace, but you can also get stroke rate, watts, meters, calories, and more. Additionally, you have the ability to change up the way the screen presents the information depending on what numbers you want to see.

This is an air resistance rower, so it isn’t quiet; there is a steady “whoosh” as you pull the handle toward you, engaging the flywheel. While there aren’t technically resistance settings, there is a damper on the side of the flywheel that controls how much air is allowed into the wheel; the higher you push the damper, the more challenging it may be to row.

We gave this a 4.75 out of 5 for construction, only knocking the Concept2 because it uses a chain, not a belt, though in our experience, the chain is very smooth. Chains typically require more maintenance than belts. (“I have never once maintained the chain on my rower, and it’s still great after five years,” Kate admits.)

The seat features a curved ergonomic design, though it isn’t padded. Some people may find the seat to be hard, though Kate says she has done multiple 5K rows without issue. The footrests are adjustable, so you can move the heel up or down so the strap can be tightened over your foot in the appropriate place.

Lastly, we love that this rower is light and moves extremely easy over carpet, rubber flooring, and hardwood, thanks to the front transport wheels. It’s also easy to store upright when not in use.

Get an even deeper look at this rower over at our Concept 2 RowErg review.

Best Compact Elliptical: ProForm Carbon HIIT H10

Good for: People with a small amount of space who still want a heart-pumping cardio machine.

Best Compact Elliptical

ProForm Carbon HIIT H10 Elliptical

Community Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Hybrid climber
• 10” vertical with a 5” horizontal stride
• Low-impact, intense full-body workout
• 24 levels of resistance
• 10” smart HD touchscreen display
• iFIT-enabled with a free 30-day iFIT family membership included
• 56 pre-programmed workouts outside of iFIT

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact
• Quick but intense workouts
• Immersive training via iFIT
• Quiet
• Free 30-day family membership included
• Over 50 pre-programmed workouts

Cons

• Assembly is reportedly difficult
• Not for casual workouts

Bottom Line

The ProForm HIIT H10 trainer offers shorter, intense workouts on a compact and high-quality machine.

An elliptical is usually a very large machine, but the ProForm Carbon HIIT H10 gets a 4 out of 5 for its footprint, and makes it a great piece of compact exercise equipment. Its vertical design does make this more of a stair stepper rather than a gliding elliptical, but you still get a high-intensity, low-impact workout.

“You can only travel in that forward motion on this, whereas on a traditional elliptical, you can go backward,” warns Nicole Davis, GGR senior editor who tested the H10.

(Looking for more compact cardio equipment? Check out our list of the best folding exercise bikes.)

My prior choice for the best compact elliptical was the Bowflex M6, which I still recommend. Bowflex’s machine is also more of a stepper. This type of workout will light up your quads and glutes.

When it comes to technology, this machine has a lot to offer: a 10-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth speakers, and pulse sensors to measure your heart rate.

“A 10-inch screen would normally feel kind of small, but I think because this is a compact machine and you’re closer to the screen than you would be on a treadmill, it’s not too bad,” Nicole says.

Another great feature is that this compact cardio machine is compatible with iFIT programming, which means you have access to thousands of live and on-demand workouts. During her workout, Nicole noted that the 24 levels of silent magnetic resistance are, in fact, pretty quiet. Also, when she took it to top speeds, she didn’t notice any movement or wobbling.

For more, check out our in-depth ProForm Carbon HIIT H10 review.

Best Budget Air Bike: Titan Fitness Fan Bike

Good for: People looking for a cheaper air bike with thoughtful features.

Best Value Cardio Machine

Titan Fan Bike

GGR Score: 4.3

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Product Highlights

• Affordable air bike
• 111-pounds of heavy-gauge steel
• Integrated with sealed cartridge bearings
• Powder-coated finish.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Made of heavy-duty steel
• Priced under $700
• Easy to transport
• Free shipping
• Fan guard

Cons

• Large footprint
• Chain-drive belt
• Can be loud

Bottom Line

The Titan Fan Bike is an affordable alternative for those looking for a quality air bike. Its ease of use, portability, and ability to deliver an intense workout make it a top choice for us.

The Titan Fitness Fan Bike is under $700 and has a variety of extras that make this a great choice for people looking for a budget cardio machine as well as one of the best air bikes. This bike comes with a phone holder, fan guard, and water bottle holder for the users’ convenience.

GGR founder and home gym equipment expert Coop Mitchell says this Titan air bike reminds him of the AssaultBike. “The construction and monitor is very similar,” he says. “The Titan, however, comes with these huge front transport wheels, which make moving it much easier than moving the AssaultBike.”

The durability of the Titan Bike is solid, earning it a 4.25 out of 5 on our rating metric. That’s because it’s made mostly of steel and has a high user weight capacity of 350 pounds. Coop also appreciates the little details Titan added such as the knurled handle and turf tires to make it easier to move around within his garage. You can also easily wheel the bike into your driveway as he does, and workout since it is user-powered and doesn’t need to be plugged into the wall.

Similar to the Assault Air Bike, the Titan Fitness Fan Bike has a chain drive system. This is probably very familiar to you if you’re someone who enjoys CrossFit workouts. The noisy chain drive system does require more maintenance over time because it has to be lubed and greased properly to work its best.

Coop isn’t a huge fan of the monitor. It seemed to glitch occasionally and he found the buttons to be too small for his personal liking. he would definitely want to see Titan improve this feature in the future.

Check out his Titan Fan Bike review.

Best Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro

Good for: People who want a durable treadmill that will help improve their form.

Best Non-Motorized Treadmill

AssaultRunner Pro

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Low-impact shock absorbing belt
• Incredibly sturdy and durable
• Built-in wheels for portability
• 100% athlete-powered

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Extremely popular
• Durable machine
• No motor means fewer maintenance issues
• Easy-to-read monitor
• Thick rubber belt provides great traction
• Bearings under belt provide smooth run
• Sturdy
• Rear handle makes moving easier
• Powder-coating withstands the elements
• Affordable curved treadmill
• Staple for CrossFitters

Cons

• Extremely heavy
• Curved shape takes getting used to
• Plastic shell may crack
• High spin rate on belt
• No fancy monitor, water bottle holder, or other conveniences

Bottom Line

The AssaultRunner Pro is one of the best value non-motorized treadmills for home gyms on the market.

Non-motorized, curved treadmills are awesome tools for correcting running form issues and controlling your own pace. The AssaultRunner Pro is one of our favorites and it’s on this list because it scores a perfect 5 out of 5 for value due to its more affordable price point and overall durability.

GGR founder and treadmill expert Coop Mitchell has used just about every single one of the machines from Assault, including the Assault Elite, which has a better construction than the Pro but a much higher price tag.

The belt is made of rubber slats and helps your shoes get a good grip on the deck. The way the treadmill dips helps you be mindful of striking mid-foot when running. “I like how smoothly the belt moves when in use,” Coop says. “I don’t anticipate having to do much maintenance on the belt or deck, which is much more than I can say about any motorized treadmill I’ve ever owned.”

At around $3,000, the AssaultRunner Pro is surprisingly the budget alternative to the $6,000 TrueForm Runner. The TrueForm Runner is essentially bomb-proof. Okay, not really, but if the world was to end, we firmly believe cockroaches and all TrueForm Runners would be left unscathed.

RELATED: TrueForm Trainer review

The AssaultRunner Pro has a solid steel frame but has plastic pieces that we normally would feel uneasy about. However, since the base is metal, we feel good recommending this piece durability-wise for a home gym owner. Also, the plastic means this is lighter weight. Though this weighs hundreds of pounds, it comes with transport wheels and a handle, so it is actually easier to move around than you would think.

The monitor is extremely simple. You won’t find a touch screen or any interactive programming but that’s probably not why you want a non-motorized treadmill. The only stats you’ll see are speed and distance traveled. However, the machine is now compatible with the Assault app and Zwift, and it has Bluetooth and ANT+ compatibility.

Read more in our full AssaultRunner Pro review.

Best Under-Desk Cardio Machine: WalkingPad Folding Treadmill

Good for: Those who want to walk while they work 

Best Under-Desk

WalkingPad Folding Treadmill

GGR Score: 3.1

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Product Highlights

• Folds for easy storage
• Suitable for tall folks and long strides
• Comes assembled
• Compatible with KS Fit App
• Features foot-sensing controls

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Under $450
• Foldable
• Can be controlled by the app or a remote
• Has automatic foot control
• No assembly required

Cons

• Max user weight of 220 lbs
• No obvious warranty

Bottom Line

The WalkingPad is another great option for people who want a way to walk while doing another activity.

For those who like to multitask, using one of the best under-desk treadmills is a way to get in your steps as you work. The WalkingPad Folding Treadmill is small at just 57 inches long, and it’s easy to move because it only weighs 66 pounds. Beyond that, it will literally fold in half, like a sandwich, so if you don’t want to use it, it’s easily stowed under a bed or in a closet.

Nicole Davis, GGR senior editor and certified personal trainer, owns the WalkingPad Folding Treadmill. “It feels pretty sizable,” she says, even though the walking surface on this machine is only 47 inches long. “It’s comfortable for me, but my husband has also used it comfortably, and he’s 6 foot, 2 inches.”

When we put treadmills through our in-depth testing, we typically look for high speed ranges, incline, and a cushioned deck. Because of the nature of this machine, you won’t get any of those things. The speed goes up to 4 MPH, and it doesn’t have any incline. However, that’s perfectly suitable for a walking treadmill.

Also, Nicole did give it a perfect 5-out-of-5 score on assembly because it ships free with Amazon Prime. You don’t have to assemble it; you just unbox it and plug it in.

The WalkingPad works comes with a remote to make speed adjustments. It also has sensors that adjust your speed based on where your foot strikes; the brand says the belt turns faster if you walk toward the front of the machine, and slower if you’re walking toward the back.

“I used this, and it did seem to work,” says Nicole. “However, I was more comfortable using it at a fixed speed because I was using my laptop while on it.”

Best Smart Rowing Machine: Hydrow Rower

Good for: People who want a well-designed luxury piece of cardio equipment.

Best Smart Rower

Hydrow Connected Rower

GGR Score: 4.2

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Product Highlights

• Sleek and sexy design
• 16″ touchscreen display
• Magnetic resistance done right
• Gorgeous virtual rowing workouts filmed on location all over the world
• Smooth rowing experience

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Consistent and smooth magnetic rower
• Engaging interactive programming
• Ability to compete against others via a leaderboard
• Sleek and modern design

Cons

• Just under $2,500 for the Hydrow Essentials Package
• Additional subscription fee for programming
• Limited customer service contact options

Bottom Line

This is a fantastic, advanced rowing machine ideal for people who have the money to spend and the desire for trainer-led workouts.

We rated the Hydrow Rower a perfect 5 out of 5 in customizations, programming, and tech capabilities. Hydrow has interactive programming, though it’s an additional cost of an extra $456 per year. You get more than 2,000 workouts to choose from. We like that rowing is just a part of the digital experience, and you can do yoga, strength training, and pilates classes as well.

We don’t say this often, but the Hydrow Rower is a beautiful piece of cardio equipment. The lines are sleek, and the 22-inch touchscreen adds to the air of luxury surrounding this rower.

The graphics for the classes are high-definition and you can view stats like distance, calories burned, time remaining, and class rank when competing with other Hydrow users.

Starting at $2,500 and going up from there, this isn’t a cheap option. However, if you can afford it, it’s really fun to use and delivers a full-body workout that uses a variety of muscle groups. If you’re looking for a Hydrow discount code, we can help.

With a weight capacity of 375 pounds, the Hydrow can give a variety of users a high-intensity, low-impact workout. The electro-magnetic resistance is quiet and smooth compared to air resistance that a lot of other rowers use.

We like that the footbeds can be adjusted depending on the person using the rowing machine. The grips are also ergonomically friendly because they’re designed to give you a comfortable place to hold.

Check out our full Hydrow Rower review.

Best Budget Elliptical: Horizon Fitness EX-59

Good for: People who want incline training on a budget

Best Budget Elliptical

Horizon EX-59 Elliptical

GGR Score: 3.75

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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.

The Horizon Fitness EX-59 elliptical costs under $1,000 and is a great value cardio option. This was one of the first machines we put through our elliptical testing methodology, and our expert product testers agree it’s a great deal for the price point due to its stability and portability. It remains one of the best ellipticals out there, even if it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles other machines might have.

“It certainly is not as sturdy as a commercial model, but I was really happy with the stability for the price and size,” says certified personal trainer and GGR Everything Lead Reviewer Lindsay Scheele. “It was pretty solid during use.”

Another impressive feature of this machine is a 300-pound weight capacity. Yes, thats right at the industry standard but budget cardio machines tend to be less durable. That said, we’re only giving it a 3 out of 5 when it comes to durability because the 14-pound flywheel is under the industry standard of 16 pounds.

In our testing, we found this to be a versatile workout machine. We gave it a 4 out of 5 rating for adjustability and ergonomics because it has an 18-inch stride length, perfect for people of most heights, has two handlebars (a fixed pair and a moving pair), and the pedals are slightly cushioned. It would have received a 5 out of 5 if the stride length was 20 inches, but beggars can’t be choosers.

The EX-59 has a fairly average footprint for an elliptical and weighs 145 pounds. That may seem heavy, but Lindsay and GGR founder Coop Mitchell agree it’s easy enough to move with just one person due to the front-facing transport wheels. “They don’t work great on high-pile carpet or going over power cords and the like,” Coop says in our Horizon EX-59 elliptical review. For that reason, we rate the footprint and portability a 4 out of 5.

Although the 4.5-inch LCD display is underwhelming by today’s standards, it comes with Bluetooth connectivity so you can follow your favorite iFIT workouts or listen to your favorite tunes.

Best Full-Body Workout Cardio Machine: Bells of Steel Blitz Bike

Good for: Serious athletes that want a different way to get cardio.

Best for a Full-Body Workout

Bells of Steel Blitz Air Bike 2.0

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• Sturdy with great transport wheels
• Budget-friendly
• Belt drive
• Compact footprint
• Plus-size adjustable seat

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Heavy-duty frame
• Notable weight capacity
• Belt drive system, which is quieter and requires less maintenance than chain drive
• Ergonomic seat
• Large fan
• Affordable
• Free shipping
• Comes with water bottle holder, wind guard, and phone holder

Cons

• No rear handle to make moving it easier
• Transport wheels are small

Bottom Line

The Blitz Air Bike 2.0 is one of the best-priced air bikes on the market and is packed with great features, a solid build, and solid warranty.

Let me be clear – we don’t think the Concept 2 SkiErg is the best cardio machine for most people. However, it is our personal favorite for people looking for a full-body workout, and we rated it a 5 out of 5 when it comes to ease of use because just about anyone can use this due to the smaller fan blades and adjustability.

“It’s a little easier to start than something like the Rogue Echo Bike,” says Coop Mitchell, GGR founder and air bike aficionado. The Echo Bike is the official air bike of the CrossFit Games, so if you’re looking for something a little more intense we’d suggest checking that out. For the average person, the Blitz bike is the best choice.

The Blitz Bike gets bonus points for having a seat that can be adjusted horizontally and vertically and a removable wind guard (nobody wants a breeze hitting their face during winter). We would’ve liked to see multiple grip options for people with shorter arms, but we’re still rating the adjustability a 4 out of 5.

Pedaling and moving your arms simultaneously provides a challenging workout that engages a variety of muscle groups and increases your heart rate, making it one of the best cardio machines for weight loss.

At around $800, the Blitz bike is already a great deal that’s made better by the fact that it should last for many years. It has a mostly metal frame, a 350-pound weight capacity, and uses a belt-drive system that doesn’t need to be lubriacted or maintained as often as a chain-drive system. “You’re not buying gym equipment so you can be a janitor, you’re buying it so you can be bigger, faster, and stronger,” Coop says in his Bells of Steel Blitz Bike 2.0 review.

At 118 pounds, it’s a little heavy but that helps it remain stable while in use. “I have to really provide a lot of side to side sway for this thing to move off its feet,” Coop says. We’ll give it a 4.5 out of 5 for durability, only taking off half a point because there are some plastic parts.

Best Vertical Climber: MaxiClimber

Good for: Those looking for a unique cardio machine with great interactive workouts

Best Vertical Climber

Maxi Climber

GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

• Vertical climber that allows you to pull down on tall handles while completing steps similar to a traditional elliptical or stair stepper
• Advertised for people who are looking for a low-impact yet maximum-movement machine that targets fat burning
• Follow fitness routines on the free MaxiClimber fitness app, compatible with iOS and Android

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Maxiclimber App free download for coach-led classes
• Low-impact form of cardio
• Easy assembly
• Varying resistance levels for all users on the XL

Cons

• Weight limit of 240 lbs on the Classic and 300 lbs on the XL
• Reviews say customer service can be difficult to reach or receive missing parts
• Some buyers claim that their product broke within several days or weeks of use
• Lack of varying resistance on the classic climber

Bottom Line

These products are low-impact cardio machines that are great for all fitness levels. If you’re looking for a new and unique piece of cardio equipment, both of these models could be a solid addition to your gym.

Vertical climbers provide some of the most effective and intense cardio workouts out there because they work just about every major muscle group while raising your heart rate. Most of the high-quality ones, however, cost several thousands of dollars. Luckily, the folks at MaxiClimber thought to make an affordable yet durable piece of exercise equipment, so everyone can get a full-body sweat session. 

You’ll certainly feel the burn on this machine, but that burn won’t be felt in your joints since vertical climbers are low-impact, especially when compared to running. 

There are actually two types of MaxiClimber: the classic and the MaxiClimber XL. The classic is good for people on a tight budget or those who are fine with just using their bodyweight, and the XL is good for anyone who’s looking to add more resistance to their climbing workouts.

“Honestly, for most people, I think they would be fine with bodyweight only, but having the option for resistance is nice and the machine is just overall a better and more stable build on the XL,” says GGR founder and home gym equipment expert Cooper Mitchell.

We scored the footprint and portability a perfect 5 out of 5 because it weighs under 50 pounds and can be easily stored in a closet or behind a couch when not in use.

Take a look at our full MaxiClimber review for more on this machine.

Other Cardio Machines We’ve Tested

To be perfectly honest, we have tested far too many machines to list them all here. However, we can provide a list of our favorite cardio machines based on certain specifications.

How We Picked and Tested the Best Cardio Machines

It’s hard for us to compare a rower and a treadmill, or an elliptical and a bike, because these are inherently different machines, and therefore, they are all rated differently. However, there are some commonalities we look at in cardio equipment in general.

We started with our full testing lists of all cardio machines, which means we were looking at hundreds of pieces of equipment. We narrowed those lists down into the best in each category, based on rating scores of 1 to 5 these machines received in categories such as:

Benefits of Cardio Machines

There are tons of benefits as to why you should do cardio. Here are a few of my reasons:

• Can deliver an entire body workout with one piece of equipment
• Makes your heart healthier
• “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t kill their husbands, they just don’t.” Okay sorry, Mean Girls reference. Elle Woods is right though, doing exercises like cardio do give you endorphins!
• Can decrease body mass
• It can be fun (That’s how I feel about the Ski Erg at least)

How to Find the Best Cardio Machine

Even with me kindly narrowing down the dizzying amount of cardio machines for you (you’re welcome), you still might not be 100% sure which one of the 12 you want to purchase. Here are some things to consider:

Best Cardio Machine FAQs

Anthony O'Reilly, CPT, CNC

Anthony O'Reilly is a NASM-certified nutrition coach and personal trainer whose work has been featured in Muscle & Fitness and BarBend, and previously was an award-winning reporter and photographer for newspapers on Long Island and Queens, NY. After spending most of his life overweight, he dropped 80 pounds and took control of his health and fitness. Outside of work, he still enjoys Little Debbie cakes but offsets them with rigorous hikes and workouts. He's an avid Manchester United supporter, through thick and thin.

Further reading

Echelon Connect EX-5 Bike Review (2024): Good Things Come in Small Packages

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Looking to spice up your cardio with interactive programming? Our Echelon Connect EX-5 Bike review details just that. Read more

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For the inside scoop on one of the hottest pieces of smart home gym equipment, check out our Aviron Rower review. Read more

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