Best Commercial Ellipticals (2026): 4 Premium Picks for Continued Cardio Success

Earning a strong overall score of 4 out of 5 from former GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, the Horizon EX-59 is a wise investment for home gym owners looking for an elliptical they can depend on for years to come. Featuring a solid frame that supports users up to 300 pounds, you’ll enjoy a comfortable training experience on this well-built machine. 

“This thing is super smooth,” Lindsay told me. “There was no shifting when I took it to top speeds.”

As an added bonus, the EX-59 comes with a lifetime frame warranty, which is one of the reasons we awarded Horizon a 5-star customer experience rating. 

Footprint & Portability: 4/5

Ergonomics: 4/5

Value: 4/5

Why We Like the Horizon Fitness EX-59

While the best commercial gym equipment can set you back quite a bit financially, that’s actually not the case here. With an MSRP of $999, the EX-59 offers excellent bang for your hard-earned buck. As such, we rate it a 4 out of 5 for value. 

“This is a really good price point for what it offers,” Lindsay told me. 

During testing, the EX-59 outperformed expectations based on its lighter 14-pound flywheel. Even though lighter flywheels can be more erratic and loud when training at higher intensities, we were pleasantly surprised at the performance aspects of this Horizon model.

Meanwhile, the textured foot pedals also help you maintain firm control as you blaze through your elliptical workout. Plus, the 18-inch stride length means this machine can accommodate users of just about any height. We also like that the EX-59 has fixed and moving handlebars, paving the way for full-body workouts. 

Lindsay also highlighted that the EX-59 has several user-friendly conveniences, helping it earn a 4 out of 5 in this category. 

“You get three water bottle holders, a large shelf to place your smart device, a USB charging port, and a headphone jack,” she explained. 

Finally, even though the EX-59 is about a foot longer than the average elliptical, it still earns a 4-out-of-5 footprint and portability score. You shouldn’t have any trouble moving it by using the rear handle and front transport wheels. 

“The wheels make it doable for me to move alone,” Lindsay says. “It felt smaller and easier than other commercial machines.”

What We Didn’t Like About the Horizon EX-59

One category that left us under-enthused is customizations.  We awarded a 3 out of 5 because there are only 10 levels of magnetic resistance and zero adjustable incline settings. Based on its budget-friendly price point, however, those types of tradeoffs are to be expected.

Furthermore, this front-drive elliptical falls a bit short in tech capabilities. The EX-59 only has a basic display with three LED windows that show your workout metrics, resulting in a 3.5 out of 5 rating. That said, it has a device holder so you can stream your favorite shows or workout apps. 

“The Bluetooth works great and the speakers have clear sound coming through them,” Lindsay told me.  

If you want a more high-tech elliptical, check out the NordicTrack AirGlide 16. Although it’s significantly more expensive, you get a gorgeous 16-inch touchscreen that lets you seamlessly stream iFIT workouts. 

Testing Breakdown

Here’s how the Horizon EX-59 scored based on our testing methodology. 

Vs. The Average

The Horizon Fitness EX-59 is more affordable than the average elliptical by roughly $300. That said, you do make some sacrifices in weight capacity and flywheel weight. However, the lifetime frame warranty is a major bonus.

For more insight, read our in-depth Horizon EX-59 elliptical review.

If you value versatility, then the NordicTrack X16 Elliptical should be squarely on your radar. This unique machine combines a stair stepper, elliptical, and incline treadmill into one super-sturdy unit. Earning a perfect durability score, the X16 offers a robust weight capacity of 375 pounds— 45 pounds more than your typical elliptical. 

GGR Managing Editor Amanda Dvorak, CPT, CNC, put the X16 through the paces and was highly impressed by its stability.  

“The machine itself feels very solid. I didn’t notice any shaking or wobbling while I was on it, and I’m on the heavier side. I can see this thing lasting for a long time,” she told me. 

Durability: 5/5

Customizations: 5/5

Portability: 3.5/5

Why We Like the NordicTrack X16 Elliptical

One of the primary reasons home gym owners invest in NordicTrack ellipticals is the top-notch iFIT programming. In addition to trainer-led workouts and vast programming options, this service incorporates AutoAdjust technology—a user-friendly feature that lets the machine take care of all the adjustments so you can stay focused on the actual workout. 

Between its iFIT compatibility, beautiful 16-inch touchscreen display, and integrated speakers, we rate the tech capabilities at a perfect 5 out of 5.

“I found everything easy to use and the touchscreen responded quickly,” Amanda told me. “I thought everything was organized well and easy to find on the homepage.” 

The X16 also scored well for ergonomics, earning a 4 out of 5 in this key category.

“The pedals felt comfortable and had a textured bottom, and my feet didn’t slip at all,” Amanda told me. “The grips on the handlebars felt quite nice, too.”

Other notable aspects about the X16 include its bevy of conveniences. We awarded a 4 out of 5 in this category because it includes Bluetooth connectivity, two audio speakers, a USB charging port, a cooling fan, and a water bottle holder.

This 3-in-1 machine offers 26 resistance levels and a robust decline/incline range of -10% to 10%. This gives you tremendous flexibility to challenge yourself with different styles of training, leading to a perfect 5 out of 5 for customizations.

Finally, it’s worth pointing out that the X16 has a center-drive system, meaning the resistance comes from the middle of the machine unlike front- or rear-drive ellipticals where the flywheel is located in those respective areas. This design typically creates a more balanced, natural stride while keeping you centered over the machine, which can improve stability and reduce stress on your joints.

Why We Didn’t Like the NordicTrack X16 Elliptical

While Amanda appreciated the X16’s sturdy build, iFIT integration, and customizations, she was quick to point out that it can be challenging to get accustomed to how this machine operates. 

“It took me a few seconds to get used to the motion of the pedals because it felt like every time I wanted to go forward, I ended up pedaling backward, and vice versa,” she told me. “I’m 5-foot-8  with long legs and the stride length felt quite short.” 

Even though you have ample customization options, the method for doing so can be a bit cumbersome. 

“It would have been more comfortable to make adjustments if the controls were on the actual handlebars, especially when you’re moving,” Amanda pointed out. “It just didn’t feel very natural.” 

Finally, don’t expect to move this machine once you have it in place. At least, not without the help of a friend or family member. Tipping the scales at 289 pounds, the X16 is more than 100 pounds heavier than the average elliptical. As a result, we docked a few points off the footprint and portability score (3.5 out of 5). 

“I feel like I’m pretty strong, and I couldn’t even lift this thing to tilt it to move it,” Amanda told me. “I don’t think someone who doesn’t work out often would be able to move it easily on their own.”

If you want a more straightforward elliptical machine that doesn’t cost nearly as much, the Horizon EX-59 will get the job done and allow you to use those savings to invest in other upgrades to your home gym.

Testing Breakdown

The NordicTrack X16 earned perfect scores in four categories. Here’s a complete breakdown of how it fared based on our testing methodology. 

Vs. The Average

Even though it’s more than double the cost of the average elliptical, the X16 offers great value thanks to its programming, tech capabilities, and sturdy design. Plus, you get a machine with a higher weight capacity and superior warranty than many of its competitors.

For more information on the X16’s predecessor, read our full NordicTrack FS10i review.

The Bowflex Max Trainer M6 is not like an ordinary commercial-grade elliptical. Instead, it’s sort of a crossbreed between an elliptical and a stair stepper. (If you’ve ever been on a stair climber, you know the burn!) Our testers found it incredibly effective for heart-pumping, sweat-inducing elliptical HIIT workouts, with the M6’s selling point being a one-click button that will take you straight into a 14-minute high-intensity interval training session. 

This stair-stepper-like design is why the M6 is also an incredibly compact machine. Whereas most commercial ellipticals are up to 7 feet in length, the M6 is less than 4 feet long. That’s great news for people living in small spaces and one of the reasons this machine earns a 4.5 out of 5 for footprint and portability.

Footprint & Portability: 4.5/5

Dynamic Programming: 4/5

Durability: 4.5/5

Why We Like the Bowflex Max Trainer M6

Former GGR editorial team member Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1 put the M6 to the test and vouched for its solid construction. She awarded this Bowflex machine a 4.5 out of 5 for durability due to its sturdy design. 

“It has floor stabilizers, so if you feel any rocking, it’s typically just some small adjustments on the stabilizers and it’s fine,” she told me. 

In addition, the M6 comes with five available workouts that can easily get your blood pumping and heart racing. However, the reason we gave it a 4-out-of-5 programming score is its compatibility with JRNY—an app that offers trainer-led courses for those wanting a digital fitness experience. 

RELATED: JRNY App Review

Compared to other ellipticals we’ve reviewed, the Max Trainer M6 utilizes more of a vertical motion, resulting in more of a climber-elliptical cross-trainer than a standard elliptical machine. On one hand, that presents a bit of a learning curve challenge. On the other hand, it helps shrink its overall footprint, making this a great piece of compact exercise equipment.

What We Didn’t Like About the Bowflex Max Trainer M6

Unfortunately, the M6 doesn’t have an integrated touchscreen like the Trainer M9 or Total 16—Bowflex’s two higher-priced incline ellipticals. That said, it has a media shelf where you can stream your workouts and entertainment apps on your phone or iPad.

Finally, we’d be remiss without pointing out the Max Trainer M6’s lackluster warranties. Bowflex only provides two years of coverage on the frame and parts and just 90 days on labor. When assessing ellipticals, we like to see at least 10 years for the frame, so this model falls well short of our standards. As a result, we docked some points off the customer experience score, settling on a 3.5 out of 5.

If you have more financial flexibility, you can upgrade to the Bowflex Max Trainer M9, which includes a 10-inch touchscreen, more tech capabilities, and more resistance levels than its less-expensive sibling.

Testing Breakdown

Although the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 didn’t earn a 5 in any category, it scored at least a 4 in all but two. Here’s a breakdown of how it fared based on our testing methodology.

Vs. The Average

The Bowflex Max Trainer M6 features a compact footprint and weighs 43 pounds less than the average elliptical, making it a terrific option for space-conscious buyers. 

Check out our full Bowflex M6 review for more information.

Although we haven’t gotten our hands on the NordicTrack AirGlide 16 just yet, our team has vast experience with the previous iteration: the AirGlide 14i. The newer version has all the bells and whistles we look for in a top-rated commercial elliptical while retaining many of the features that made the AirGlide 14i one of our favorite models we’ve tested. 

One of the key upgrades you’ll enjoy is a 16-inch touchscreen (two inches bigger than the 14i’s display), which allows you to stream iFIT workouts or even Netflix and Spotify. As a result, we rate the tech capabilities at a perfect 5 out of 5. 

Most importantly, this is a great option for those with bad knees or joint issues because it combines low-impact movement, smooth resistance, and incline and decline adjustments that can reduce stress on your joints. 

Customizations: 5/5

Footprint: 4/5

Programming: 5/5

Why We Like the NordicTrack AirGlide 16

Customizations are the key with the AirGlide 16. First off, we love that this has incline and decline capabilities. The machine can adjust from -5% decline to 15% incline, which can help distribute the workload between your quads, hamstrings, and glutes rather than repeatedly stressing the same joint angles. 

In that vein, we also love the auto-adjusting 19-inch stride length. When you change the incline, the stride length adapts along with it. This is beneficial because it promotes a more natural gait pattern and can help prevent any awkward knee positioning. Overall, we rate the customizations at a perfect 5 out of 5. 

While we’ll have to confirm for ourselves in the near future, you should expect a stable training experience on the AirGlide 16 based on our extensive history with its predecessor. 

“This feels super sturdy while using it,” former GGR Everything Lead Reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, said of the AirGlide 14i. “There wasn’t any shakiness and everything felt solid.” 

Of course, you’ll get the most out of the AirGlide 16 by committing to an iFIT subscription. A favorite of the GGR squad, this platform provides an immersive training environment with interactive AI coaching, a massive on-demand workout library, and user-friendly features like SmartAdjust™ technology and auto-adjusting resistance and incline. 

Lindsay took a climbing pyramids class on the AirGlide 14i, and her testimony should give you plenty of confidence about exploring your options on the upgraded version. 

“The instructor was great and I was automatically excited about the class because the second song was from the Barbie soundtrack,” she told me. “Nothing like good music to make you try hard!”

What We Didn’t Like About the AirGlide 16

We docked a point from the value score simply because of the AirGlide 16’s high price point. At $2,800, it’s certainly an expensive investment that may not fit everyone’s budget. However, you can check out our NordicTrack promo code page for ways to save. 

We also have to point out that this is a fairly sizable machine. At 70.2 inches long, it’s about 8 inches longer than the average elliptical we test. This may make it a bit challenging to fit in smaller spaces. However, portability shouldn’t be a major concern, as it has front transport wheels and a rear handle that make it easier to move around.

If you want to stay in the NordicTrack family but want more versatility out of your investment, check out the X16 Elliptical. This 3-in-1 machine gives you the best of multiple worlds by combining a stair stepper, elliptical, and treadmill into one well-built package.

Testing Breakdown

While these ratings may change after we get our hands on it, the NordicTrack AirGlide 16 checks all the boxes we look for in a commercial-grade elliptical.  

Vs. The Average

The NordicTrack AirGlide 16 is more than double the price of the average elliptical. However, it boasts a much heavier flywheel and a better warranty. 

Our team uses a comprehensive testing methodology to rate ellipticals on a 1-5 scoring scale. We assess everything from the construction and durability to the customizations and conveniences. 

Here’s a closer look at what we look for across each category. 

Footprint and Portability

Can you easily move the machine from room to room? Does the elliptical have a folding mechanism that allows you to reduce its footprint when not in use? We also factor in features like transport wheels and handles that can increase the ease of portability. We give higher scores to ellipticals with compact footprints and lightweight designs (such as the Bowflex Max Trainer M6) that make it easy for one person to maneuver the machine independently within their workout space. 

Delivery and Setup

We take note of how difficult (or easy) it is to get the elliptical up and running. Does the manufacturer provide clear instructions? Were there any major stumbling blocks that made the assembly process particularly challenging? Machines that arrive with easy-to-follow instructions, clearly labeled pieces, and all the tools you need earn a minimum score of 3 out of 5.

Durability

To meet our threshold for a durability score of 3 out of 5, an elliptical must have a user weight capacity of at least 300 pounds (the industry standard). We also require that it remains stable during use with no instances of shaking or wobbles, even at higher resistances. This is one of the reasons you’ll see many commercial gyms feature brands like Life Fitness, Cybex, and Star Trac, as they’re ultra-durable machines (albeit with very high price tags). 

We also look at the flywheel weight, with the best ellipticals having a 16- to 20-pound flywheel. Why does this matter? Lighter flywheels can be prone to louder operations and may break down quicker since they need more revolutions to maintain a given speed. 

Tech Capabilities

Does the machine have tech features like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, heart rate sensors, and/or a robust monitor for workout tracking? Meanwhile, does the technology work as expected, or are there glitches that cause more headaches than it’s worth? 

To earn a 3, the elliptical should have a basic screen that shows your workout stats, heart rate monitoring via contact sensors, and some sort of workout animation, even if it’s just bars that reflect resistance levels. We award higher scores to ellipticals that include USB chargers, speakers, and touchscreen displays that operate as intended with no instances of glitching or lagging. 

Adjustability and Ergonomics

Our adjustability and ergonomics score reflects how comfortable an elliptical is during use. To earn a 3 out of 5 or higher, an elliptical should have both fixed and moving handlebars, oversized pedals that can fit most feet, a stride length between 18 to 20 inches, and soft grips on the aforementioned handles. 

Furthermore, some of the best ellipticals with incline settings allow you to adjust the angle for a steeper climb, which can provide an even greater challenge while increasing the adjustability score. Others even have an adjustable stride length that caters to users of different heights.

Customizations

How many resistance levels does the machine have? Is it easy to change the settings mid-workout? To earn a 3 or higher, the elliptical must have a minimum of 12 resistance levels to support gradual performance growth and development. We award higher scores to machines that offer decline and incline training and/or the ability to pedal in both directions.

Conveniences

We look for basic user-friendly features like a water bottle holder, a safety stop mechanism, and a media shelf where you can house your phone or tablet to watch your favorite shows or participate in on-demand classes. To earn an average score of 3 out of 5, an elliptical must include at least a water bottle holder, a media shelf that allows you to view your phone while exercising (not just store it), safety stops, and operate quietly enough that it won’t be disruptive. 

Higher scores go to elliptical machines with more high-end offerings, such as built-in cooling fans, additional safety features, or even an extra water bottle holder. These are what we expect to see in commercial-grade equipment. 

Dynamic Programming

Ellipticals that have at least a handful of built-in workout programs meet our standard for a 3 out of 5. We give higher scores for more robust workout libraries, or machines that offer virtual programming or an online community where you can connect with fellow fitness enthusiasts. For example, NordicTrack models work with iFIT, while Bowflex is compatible with JRNY. 

Value

Is the machine priced fairly based on the features? How does it compare to similar models from other manufacturers? We care about getting the best bang for your buck, especially if you’re trying to stick to spending less than $1,000. To earn a 3 or higher, an elliptical should be priced competitively and offer sufficient features to make it a worthwhile long-term investment. 

Customer Experience

This encompasses everything from the financing options to the warranty and return policies. The average elliptical includes a three-year warranty, but we tend to favor those with lengthier policies. To get a perfect score, the machine must come with a lifetime frame warranty, at least a 30-day return policy, and multiple financing options. 

Customer Reviews

We take a look at what actual customers have to say about a particular profile. Whether it’s Amazon, the official company website, or another reputable site, we look at the average rating and dive into customer reviews for detailed feedback. 

Elliptical training offers a ton of benefits without some of the drawbacks associated with other types of cardio. Here’s a quick overview of some of the ways investing in this machine can support your health and well-being. 

Low-Impact Exercise

According to a 2021 study¹, elliptical training takes less of a toll on your joints than other forms of cardiovascular exercise while promoting a better quality of life. Because your feet remain in contact with the pedals throughout the movement, ellipticals place far less stress on the joints than high-impact exercises such as running or jumping. This makes them a great choice for older adults, people recovering from injuries, and individuals with knee, hip, or ankle problems..

While some people wrongly assume that low-impact means a lower payoff, GGR medical advisor Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM is here to pour some water on that fallacy.

“Remember, simple routines such as a daily walk can also help you live a healthier life,” he explains. 

RELATED: Elliptical Benefits Guide

Can Boost Your Mood

GGR expert contributor Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD, is a firm believer that working out can be just as beneficial for your mental well-being as your physical health. In fact, even though elliptical training may not tire you out like treadmill speed training, you may actually reap more rewards from a mental standpoint.

“Low-intensity exercise can be just as beneficial as high-intensity exercise,” he explains. “Low-intensity activities encourage the release of endorphins and promote relaxation for better sleep, which can help improve your overall mood.”

RELATED: Exercise And Mental Health

Can Help You Achieve Your Weight Loss Goals

It’s no secret that cardiovascular exercise can be a key driver in trimming extra pounds off your frame. What might surprise you, however, is how effective elliptical training can be from a in terms of calorie-burning efficiency. 

Per Harvard Health Publishing², a 185-pound athlete can burn more calories during a 30-minute elliptical workout than the same time spent on a stationary rowing machine at a moderate pace. If you incorporate this along with a well-devised nutrition plan and strength training, you can be well on your way to achieving your body recomposition goals. 

“Regular physical activity, like using an elliptical several days a week, can aid in managing and maintaining a healthy body fat percentage,” Mohr explains. “It does this by burning calories, which can help create a calorie deficit when combined with a nutritious diet.”

RELATED: Tips on Breaking a Weight Loss Plateau

Buying Guide: What to Look For In the Best Commercial Ellipticals

We have a comprehensive elliptical buying guide, but here are a few things to primarily focus on if you’re in the market for a machine to help you meet your fitness goals:

Footprint

If you have limited space in your home, you’ll want a machine that is easy to move or, at least, a foldable profile that can shrink its footprint in-between workouts. 

Keep in mind, though, that this usually means a shorter stride, which can be uncomfortable for taller users. Be sure to read the product descriptions for actual measurements, and take some time to measure your available space; you may find that your actual floor plan is smaller (or larger) than previously thought.

Incline and Resistance Levels

Higher-end models often offer a wider resistance range, providing greater room for progressive training. Incline capability is another premium feature frequently found on top-tier machines. Because incline systems require additional motors and more complex engineering, ellipticals with automatic incline adjustments typically come at a higher price point than budget-friendly models that focus solely on resistance-based intensity changes.

If an elliptical does offer incline adjustments, it’s a feature worth using. Research published in 2021³ found that exercising at an incline can alter lower-body movement patterns and recruit muscles differently than pedaling on a flat setting. That added variety can help create a more well-rounded workout. Keep in mind, however, that incline systems add mechanical complexity to the machine, which may lead to greater maintenance requirements over time.

Programming

Whether it’s through the machine or via an accompanying app, there should be some kind of preset or included workouts on the elliptical. High-end ellipticals work with programs like iFIT, which has the ability to actually make incline and resistance adjustments during your workout. Ellipticals at an affordable price may simply have built-in workouts for targets like “calorie burn,” “fat burn,” and “interval training.”

A good elliptical should provide a full-body workout that can be tailored to your fitness level. Moving handles target upper body muscle groups, and fixed handles help those who need a little help with balance. As you make progress, change resistance and incline to get a more challenging lower body workout.

RELATED: Elliptical Workouts for Weight Loss

Durability

Will the elliptical be able to support your weight? Does it shake while in use? You can glean weight capacity from product specs, but understanding how sturdy it is might be difficult to do if you don’t have access to the machine. We recommend reading any available online customer reviews for additional information on durability, as these testimonials can be helpful in determining how long a machine can last when exposed to regular wear and tear.

Conveniencies

If you’re used to some of the conveniences of an elliptical at a fitness center, you’ll be pleased to know that commercial ellipticals typically come with many of the same benefits. Run a full evaluation of the machine you’re considering to look for the following:

• Water bottle holder
• Media shelf/tablet holder
• Accessory tray
• Cooling fan
• USB charging port

RELATED: Best Water Bottles

Technology

If you’re investing four figures or more in an elliptical, you should expect some degree of technology benefits. Most commercial-grade machines come with Bluetooth connectivity to speakers and a larger monitor with more advanced metrics than their budget counterparts. However, once the price gets to be around $1,500, you should expect additional features, like streaming workouts and high-definition touchscreens.