For those of us who live in compact spaces, you’ll know that we sometimes have to get creative to make things fit. Whether this means getting a sofa that doubles as a guest bed or purchasing a pair of the best adjustable dumbbells to save space, finding products that are small or multi-use is key to maximizing your home or garage.
The same is true for cardio equipment, including the best ellipticals. Our fitness equipment experts at Garage Gym Reviews have personally tested more than 30 machines, looking for the best compact ellipticals for smaller spaces. We rated each profile in accordance with our elliptical testing methodology, which looks at important factors such as:
- Footprint and Portability: This score references how compact and portable an elliptical is, which is one of the most important factors when shopping for compact fitness equipment. To earn at least 3 out of 5 stars in this category, the elliptical might be heavy, but one to two people should be able to move it if necessary.
- Value: This rates not only the cost, but whether we think the features you’re getting are worth what you’re paying. To earn a 3 out of 5, we think an elliptical is fairly priced, but you’re not getting any above-average features for the cost.
- Tech Capabilities: We look for features such as heart rate monitoring, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreens, streamable workout classes, and more. To earn at least 3 out of 5 stars, we want to see a basic screen that shows your workout metrics, heart rate monitoring via contact sensors, and some sort of workout animation—even if it’s just bars that reflect resistance levels.
- Durability: This category is based on the weight capacity, flywheel, and stability during a workout. To get a 3 out of 5 stars or more, we should see little to no shifting during the workout, a weight capacity of at least 275 pounds, and a 16- to 20-pound flywheel.
We carefully considered each elliptical we’ve tested when choosing the best compact ellipticals for this guide. In addition to our own testing notes, we spoke with exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, to get his take on the benefits of ellipticals.
In 2024, we helped 1,364 people find the best elliptical for their needs, and we’re here to help you, too.
Best Compact Ellipticals
- Best Compact Elliptical Overall – Bowflex Max Trainer M6
- Best Budget Compact Elliptical – Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical
- Best Compact Elliptical for Streaming Classes – ProForm Carbon EL Elliptical
- Best Compact Elliptical with High Weight Capacity – Niceday Elliptical Machine
- Best Folding Compact Elliptical – Gazelle Elliptical Glider
Current Top Deals
- Bowflex Max Trainer M6 – $300 off + free shipping
- Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical – Black Friday Sale: Up to 65% off
- ProForm Carbon EL Elliptical – Black Friday Starts Early: Save up to $200 on smart machines and $800 on bu
Editor’s Note
In November 2025, we revised this list to make the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 best overall and remove two discontinued models. We also added more testing notes and details for each product.
Best Compact Elliptical Overall: BowFlex Max Trainer M6
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
The Bowflex M6 provides a heart-pumping, low-impact workout that resembles stair-stepping.
What our tester says:
“Even my kids enjoyed it from time to time! We all agreed this gets a 5 out of 5 for a butt-kicking workout.”
At a Glance
- Smaller footprint than the average elliptical
- Adjustable magnetic media shelf for phone or tablet
- Compatible with the JRNY app
- Feels similar to using a stair stepper
If you’re looking for a compact, durable elliptical that provides a challenging workout for users of all levels, it’s hard to beat the BowFlex Max Trainer M6. It features a unique movement path that’s more vertical than most ellipticals, it’s compatible with streaming classes, and it’s built to last, earning 4.5 out of 5 stars for durability.
Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, tested this compact elliptical and told me, “If you’re looking for a high-intensity cardio workout that’s going to really elevate your heart rate while actively building muscle, this is a great elliptical to consider.”
Footprint and Portability: 4.5/5
Durability: 4.5/5
Value: 3.5/5
Why We Like the BowFlex Max Trainer M6
The M6 offers one of the more unique movement paths we’ve seen in an elliptical. While most traditional ellipticals feature a horizontal glide path, the M6 pedals move in a more vertical plane, which functions similarly to a stair climber.
Given the challenging nature of this movement, the M6 is best suited for interval training. It’s designed to provide a challenging workout in a short period of time, and we give it 4.5 out of 5 stars for adjustability and ergonomics.
The M6 comes with 16 levels of adjustable resistance, allowing you to customize the challenge to your liking, and includes five preset workouts. It’s also compatible with the JRNY app, though you’ll need to use your own device with the convenient media shelf.
Both Lindsay and Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, agreed that the M6 can deliver a very tough workout in a short time. “I’ve tested a lot of the workouts on the M6, and I consider myself to be in pretty decent shape,” Lindsay told me. “However, even the easiest workout kicked my butt. You’re definitely going to feel the burn all through your legs.”
This is specifically designed with HIIT training in mind. The workouts are mostly 15 minutes or shorter, and they give you an intense burn!
Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1
Alternatives
While we love the durability and challenge provided by the M6, it’s not the cheapest we’ve tested, and it costs $1,299 at the time of writing. We still give it 3.5 out of 5 stars for value, but there are more affordable options available.
Kate also notes that while the assembly process is easy to follow, it’s time-consuming, and it took her nearly 90 minutes to put it all together. “One thing I didn’t like is that the assembly instructions are all pictures—no words,” she adds. “There are several steps shown on each page, too, so you kind of have to guess the order.”
Most users shouldn’t have any issues with assembly, but it’s not a quick process. We recommend taking your time and following the image instructions closely to achieve as smooth a setup as possible.
If you want a more affordable exercise machine and don’t need the challenging, vertical path of the M6, we recommend the Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical—our pick for the best budget compact elliptical.
RELATED: Does The Elliptical Build Glutes?
Testing Breakdown
The BowFlex Max Trainer M6 scored above-average in nearly every category, which is why we think it’s the best compact elliptical on the market.
Vs. The Average
The M6 has a similar price to the average elliptical and a smaller footprint. However, the warranty coverage isn’t great when compared to benchmark bundles.
| BowFlex Max Trainer M6 | Average Elliptical | |
| Price | $1,299 | $1,299.00 |
| Product weight | 136 lbs | 179 lbs |
| Flywheel weight | Not specified | 19 lbs |
| Dimensions | 46″ L x 26″ W x 64.2″ H | 62″ L x 27″ W x 67.5″ H |
| Weight capacity | 300 lbs | 330 lbs |
| Warranty | 2-year frame, 2-year parts, 90-day labor | 3 years |
Learn more in our BowFlex Max Trainer M6 review.
Best Budget Compact Elliptical: Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
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
- Priced to fit most budgets
- Very smooth movement
- Very light frame that makes this easy to move
- High weight capacity for the cost
For those looking to pick up a compact elliptical on a budget, the Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical is one of the better choices on the market. Not only is it an excellent piece of budget gym equipment, but we found it surprisingly smooth and durable for the price. It costs under $600 and earns a 4.5 out of 5 for the value.
Sure, the tech features are somewhat lacking in comparison to other machines, but for under $600, you’re really getting a steal, especially when you account for the fact that your average elliptical can cost upwards of $1,300 (or more).
Footprint and Portability: 4/5
Durability: 5/5
Value: 4.5/5
Why We Like the Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical
GGR editorial team member Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, personally tested the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Machine, and admitted that she liked the workout experience a lot more than she thought she would.
“Whether you move forward or backward or increase resistance, the machine is incredibly smooth,” Kate says. “There is no shaking when you exercise.”
With no shaking and impressive weight capacity for such a light frame (330 pounds), this elliptical earns a solid 5 out of 5 stars for durability.
GGR founder and equipment expert Coop Mitchell also used this elliptical and was impressed by its footprint, which he rated at 4 out of 5.
“With a footprint of 55 inches long by 23 inches wide by 64.5 inches tall, this magnetic elliptical trainer isn’t exactly considered compact, but it is shorter than the average machine, both in height and length,” Coop explained. “It would fit well in a space with a lower ceiling.”
Everything is simple and straightforward to use. Regardless of the setting this elliptical was on, I was impressed with the smoothness of the workout, and didn’t have any issues with shaking or loud squeaking.
Coop Mitchell, GGR founder and home gym expert
Alternatives
Our only real issue with this elliptical is the assembly process, as several customer reviews on Amazon also noted. Coop still gave the delivery and assembly process 4 out of 5 stars, partially due to the relatively light frame, but he told me it wasn’t all smooth sailing.
“The instructions recommended having two people on hand for the assembly, but I decided to go at it alone, which is probably why it ended up taking me two hours,” Coop told me. “The instructions were unclear, and the diagrams could use some work. There are tools included in the box, but I preferred to use my own and suggest you grab your own Phillips Head screwdriver too. It’ll speed up the process.”
It also has very minimal tech features and a basic LCD display, so it’s certainly not the fanciest elliptical we’ve ever tested.
We think this high-quality machine is a great choice for anyone shopping on a budget, but if you want something with a few more bells and whistles, the ProForm Carbon EL is another great choice. It has more conveniences, like iFIT integration and a nicer display.
Testing Breakdown
This elliptical scored above-average in most categories, and we were particularly impressed by its durability.
Vs. The Average
The Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical is significantly more affordable, smaller, and lighter than your common elliptical machine while offering an impressive weight capacity that meets industry standards.
| Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical | Average Elliptical | |
| Price | $549.99 | $1,299.00 |
| 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 |
For more, read our in-depth Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical review.
Best Compact Elliptical for Streaming Classes: ProForm Carbon EL
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
At a Glance
- Compatible with iFIT for streaming, trainer-led workouts
- 18 levels of silent magnetic resistance
- Weight capacity may be too low for some users
- Above-average warranty
If you like to follow trainer-led workouts from the comfort of your home, but don’t want a bulky piece of equipment with a large screen, we recommend the ProForm Carbon EL. It’s compatible with iFIT, allowing you to pair your phone or tablet and follow streaming classes, and it earns 4.5 out of 5 stars for tech capabilities.
Tech Capabilities: 4.5/5
Durability: 3.5/5
Value: 4.5/5
Why We Like the ProForm Carbon EL
While this isn’t the smallest elliptical on our list, we think it’s compact enough to fit in most home spaces, and we love the streamable iFIT integration. You’ll need your own phone or tablet to use the platform, which requires a separate membership that costs $39 per month, but the Carbon EL is designed to work seamlessly with the service.
Once your device is paired and you start an iFIT workout, your resistance will automatically be adjusted based on the trainer’s instructions, giving you a studio workout experience. The Carbon EL features an integrated tablet holder and built-in speakers, providing an immersive training setup even without a large built-in display. Accordingly, it earns 5 out of 5 stars for dynamic programming.
Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1, said, “iFIT is excellent if you want interactive programming, and it’s definitely a strong Peloton competitor.”
Caroline was also impressed with the adjustability and ergonomics, which earned 4 out of 5 stars. She felt it was comfortable, but not quite 5-star worthy.
“The 19-inch adjustable stride is within the 18-20 inch stride that we’d expect,” she told me. “It felt a little short to me, but I’m probably just used to the commercial ellipticals at the gym. There are two different sets of handlebars, one fixed and one moving, and the grips were decently soft, but not exactly the most comfortable I’ve ever felt.”
The Carbon EL has 18 levels of resistance, which is above the industry standard of 12 levels. There isn’t any incline or decline training, but it still provides a great workout experience.
Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1
Alternatives
While the Carbon EL has a built-in tablet holder, the built-in display is nothing special, and there aren’t any cooling fans for added conveniences. We only give this 3.5 out of 5 stars for the category.
You’ll also need to pay for iFIT, which costs $39 per month. The weight capacity is also pretty good for many users at 275 pounds, but it’s below the industry standard. As such, larger individuals may need to choose a different compact elliptical machine.
If you want an elliptical with a higher weight capacity and don’t need the streamable classes, we recommend the NiceDay Elliptical.
Testing Breakdown
The Carbon EL scored above average in most categories, though the delivery and setup process were a little challenging, earning an average 3-out-of-5-star rating.
Vs. The Average
The ProForm Carbon EL is cheaper than the average elliptical, but it also has a lighter flywheel and lower weight capacity.
| ProForm Carbon EL | Average Elliptical | |
| Price | $999 | $1,299.00 |
| Product weight | 205 lbs | 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; 1-year labor | 3 years |
Read more about this smart elliptical machine in our ProForm Carbon EL review.
Best Compact Elliptical with High Weight Capacity: NiceDay Elliptical
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
At a Glance
- 400-pound weight capacity
- Easy assembly
- Lighter-than-average flywheel
- May shift side to side during use
Though the NiceDay Elliptical is small, she is fierce. And that’s especially true when it comes to its weight capacity, which goes up to 400 pounds. Other space-saving gym equipment usually comes with smaller weight limits due to the compact dimensions, but that’s no problem here. We give this elliptical 4 out of 5 stars for durability.
RELATED: Best Compact Exercise Equipment
Footprint and Portability: 4.5/5
Durability: 4/5
Value: 4/5
Why We Like the NiceDay Elliptical
Even though it’s very affordable compared to most ellipticals, the NiceDay CT11 Elliptical has a surprisingly sturdy frame for the price point. Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1, noted that it was surprisingly durable for the price point.
We also appreciate that this elliptical is relatively light and portable, and it earns 4.5 out of 5 stars for footprint and portability.
“The machine is just over 100 pounds, so you should be able to move it up or down stairs with one additional able-bodied person,” Caroline told me. “If you’re just moving it from room to room, it can be a solo job thanks to the attached front transport wheels.”
We also gave it 3.5 out of 5 stars for ergonomics. The stride length feels a little short and may not work well for tall users, but our testers noted that it utilizes a more vertical path, similar to a stair stepper, and can still provide a challenging workout for taller athletes. Just know that it’s not exactly the flat, gliding path you may be used to if you’ve used commercial machines.
When I stepped on the machine, I noticed that it felt more durable than the average budget elliptical due to the steel construction, which isn’t very common with cheaper machines.
Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1
Alternatives
While the elliptical has a weight capacity that’s significantly more resilient than the average machine, even at a low price point, it’s not perfect. The 16-pound flywheel is lighter than the average elliptical, and Caroline said, “I noticed that there was some shifting side to side during my workout and one of the handles felt wobbly, likely due to the small flywheel, as I’m nowhere near the 400-pound weight limit.”
It’s also lacking conveniences like a water bottle holder, and the built-in LCD display is very small. That said, we still rate the conveniences at 3.5 out of 5 given the ultra-quiet nature of this compact profile. “Probably the quietest machine I have ever been on,” adds Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1.
If you want an elliptical that provides a challenging vertical workout but has more bells and whistles, we recommend upgrading to the BowFlex Max Trainer M6—our pick for the best overall compact elliptical.
Testing Breakdown
Even though this machine has a high weight capacity for the price, it’s missing basic conveniences and doesn’t have any built-in programming.
Vs. The Average
Even though the NiceDay CT11 Elliptical is less than half the price of an average elliptical, it’s very light, and the small footprint can be challenging for taller users.
| NiceDay Elliptical | Average Elliptical | |
| Price | $599.99 | $1,299.00 |
| 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 |
To learn more about this budget-friendly, durable elliptical, be sure to read our in-depth Niceday Elliptical Machine review.
Best Folding Compact Elliptical: Gazelle Elliptical Glider
Updated by: Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC
At a Glance
- Self-powered machine
- Foldable for easy storage
- Very affordable
- Below-average weight capacity
Celebrity personal trainer Tony Little created the Gazelle Elliptical Glider in the 1980s, and the machine has stuck around ever since. The Gazelle is easy to fold, and it can be stored away in a closet or under a bed when it isn’t being used.
Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1, says, “One of the shining features of the Gazelle Freestyle is its foldability and portability. This is one of the few elliptical machines that actually folds, and does so pretty easily.”
This lightweight machine easily earns 5 out of 5 stars for footprint and portability.
Footprint and Portability: 5/5
Durability: 3/5
Conveniences: 3/5
Why We Like the Gazelle Elliptical Glider
For those looking for a machine that can fit nearly any budget and even the smallest of spaces, this folding elliptical is one of the best choices on the market, in our opinion.
We’ll start with the cost. At only $199, this is an extremely affordable elliptical (the average elliptical costs $1,299), and we give it 3.5 out of 5 stars for value. It’s pretty basic, but it’s hard to beat the cost.
It also features six magnetic resistance levels, and while it’s not the most challenging workout, it’s a manual elliptical that doesn’t require any power, meaning you can use this anywhere you have space on the floor without worrying about the closest outlet.
Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC, also noted that the assembly process is smooth and easy, saying, “There aren’t a lot of pieces with this, and it comes packaged in a very small box that one person can easily move.” Yes, some components can need a little love to fit together (cheaper parts often do), but you can get this profile built and set up without much stress. We rate the delivery and assembly at 4 out of 5.
It’s really compact, and it would be great for a small space. There’s no motor or need to plug in, and it’s completely self-propelled, which makes it really easy to move and get on and go.
Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC
Alternatives
While this elliptical is very affordable, this is one of those situations where you get what you pay for. Both of our testers noted that the machine has a lot of plastic parts that don’t feel very sturdy, and we only give this 3 out of 5 stars for durability.
In our original review, the Gazelle we tested didn’t have any resistance. The listing now claims six levels of magnetic resistance, but we aren’t sure how much resistance such a light machine can provide, and this made it feel a little unsafe.
“I will say, the Gazelle can be challenging to mount and dismount,” Nicole told me. “If you have bad balance, you’ll likely struggle to safely step on the moving legs of the machine. Once you get going, it is less of a problem, but the lack of resistance contributes to just how easily the legs move.”
This is a good choice for those on a budget, but if you can spend a little more, we recommend the NiceDay Elliptical instead, which is another budget-friendly option you can order on Amazon that offers significantly better durability.
Testing Breakdown
While the Gazelle is lightweight and affordable, it’s not very durable, and doesn’t have any tech features or programming options.
Vs. The Average
Compared to the average machine, this elliptical is extremely affordable, but it’s below-average in most other categories.
| Gazelle Elliptical Glider | Average Elliptical | |
| Price | $199 | $1,299.00 |
| Product weight | 46 lbs | 179 lbs |
| Flywheel weight | N/A | 19 lbs |
| Dimensions | 44″ L x 33.5″ W x 53.5″ H | 62″ L x 27″ W x 67.5″ H |
| Weight capacity | 250-300 lbs | 330 lbs |
| Warranty | 1 year | 3 years |
Learn more in our full Gazelle Freestyle review.
Other Compact Ellipticals We Researched
While there aren’t too many compact ellipticals on the market, here are a few others we considered that didn’t quite make the cut:
- NordicTrack FS10i: We’ve tested this machine and were impressed by its versatility and sturdiness. However, despite it’s compact size, it certainly isn’t light, weighing 284 pounds. It cannot be folded or easily moved around.
- Cubii Move: We like this under-desk elliptical, but as it can only be used while seated, we didn’t feel it offered enough versatility for a true elliptical experience.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Compact Ellipticals
When choosing compact ellipticals for this guide, we considered many of the factors used for scoring in our testing methodology, which was developed by a team of personal trainers, strength coaches, nutrition coaches, weightlifters, and more. Here are some of the most important factors we considered.
Footprint and Portability
For compact ellipticals, this is the most important category. We want to know how easy it is to move around, how heavy it is, and whether or not one to two people can easily move the elliptical around, if needed.
To earn at least 3 out of 5 stars, one or two people should be able to easily maneuver the machine, though it may be somewhat cumbersome and heavy. We save our higher scores for machines that are exceptionally light or easy to move, even with only one person.
Durability
We understand that most users expect to get years of regular use from their elliptical, so our durability score helps assess the longevity of these machines and how well they can withstand the throes of common wear and tear.
To earn an average score (3 out of 5), we expect to see little to no shifting during the workout, a weight capacity of at least 275 pounds, and a 16- to 20-pound flywheel. If it feels exceptionally durable, we’ll give it a higher durability score.
Customizations
For customizations, we want to see how many adjustment settings are offered, which is primarily going to be resistance levels for ellipticals.
To earn 3 out of 5 stars, we want to see at least 12 resistance levels, and we give higher ratings to ellipticals with better customization options, like incline or pedal adjustments.
RELATED: Best Ellipticals with Incline
Adjustability and Ergonomics
We use this category to assess how comfortable an elliptical is to use for the average person. To earn at least a 3-out-of-5-star rating, an elliptical should have both fixed and moving handlebars, oversized foot pedals that can fit most feet, a stride length of 18 to 20 inches, and soft grips on the aforementioned handles.
Tech Capabilities
With any cardio machine, especially ellipticals, the included tech features can vary greatly as you shop at different price points.
To earn at least 3 out of 5 stars, we should see 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. Higher scores are awarded to machines with better tech features, like streaming classes and Bluetooth integration.
Dynamic Programming
This category looks at the number of built-in workouts you can follow, which can vary significantly based on the model and cost.
For a 3-out-of-5-star rating, ellipticals should have a handful of built-in workouts that can be easily started with just a few buttons. We give higher scores to those with a large workout library, or ellipticals compatible with streaming services like iFIT.
RELATED: Elliptical Workouts for Runners
Value
Our value score doesn’t just reflect the total price. Rather, we examine the features you get at any given price point. We want to know if the price makes sense for what you’re ordering.
To earn a 3 out of 5, we think an elliptical is fairly priced, but you’re not getting any above-average features for the cost. Higher scores are given to ellipticals that offer exceptionally good features for the price.
Delivery and Setup
Some ellipticals are very easy to assemble out of the box, while others require a significant time investment and may even call for multiple people. This is an important category to consider, especially for those who live alone.
To get at least 3 out of 5 stars, we want to see threshold delivery—where the company drops it at your doorstep (not at the end of your driveway on a pallet)—and for two people to be able to build the elliptical in no more than two hours.
Customer Service
If you have issues with your machine, you’re probably going to reach out to the manufacturer, so we ask our testers to do the same, rating the service they receive.
We give a 3-out-of-5-star rating to companies that can be reached via phone, email, or contact form, and offer generally helpful support. Higher scores are awarded to companies that offer exceptional service or features such as live chat support on their websites.
Customer Reviews
Since our testers typically have a limited time to spend with each machine, we also factor in customer reviews. We look at the company website, as well as third-party websites like Amazon, which won’t filter out the negative reviews.
Benefits of Compact Ellipticals
If you’re wondering why you should be considering a compact elliptical to help you reach your health and wellness goals, here are a few of the most important elliptical benefits.
Saves Space
Certified personal trainer and Garage Gym Reviews Staff Writer Anthony O’Reilly knows a thing or two about cardio equipment. Here’s his take on why you should purchase a compact elliptical.
“Compact ellipticals provide a full-body workout and have the same cardio benefits as larger versions with the added benefits of fitting in apartments and smaller home gyms,” Anthony explains.
This makes sense to me. In fact, compact ellipticals are usually much easier to store than their larger counterparts. Although few and far between, there are a couple of ellipticals that actually fold (I’ve recommended a few of my favorites above) for an even smaller footprint.
Easier on the Budget
While not always the case, compact ellipticals are often significantly more affordable than larger, commercial-grade ellipticals. If you’re okay with slight differences in the stride length, a compact elliptical can be a great way to save money when outfitting your home gym.
The average elliptical we’ve tested costs $1,299, but the average compact elliptical in this guide only costs around $715.
Low-Impact Cardio
Compared to running on pavement, ellipticals are a very joint-friendly alternative, great for those of us with achy knees, hips, or backs. However, don’t let this fool you; research shows1 that ellipticals still provide a challenging cardiovascular workout, despite being easier on the joints.
Chris Mohr, PhD, RD, is also a fan of the low-impact exercise that an elliptical can provide.
“Low-intensity exercise can be just as beneficial as high-intensity exercise,” says Dr. Mohr. “Low-intensity activities encourage the release of endorphins and promote relaxation for better sleep, which can help improve your overall mood.”
RELATED: Elliptical vs. Walking
Significant Calorie Expenditure
For those looking to shed a few pounds, ellipticals offer a great way to burn calories, which is an important part of a healthy, balanced weight loss plan.
According to Harvard Health Publishing2, users can burn more calories in a 30-minute elliptical workout than they could on a stationary rowing machine.
GGR staff writer and strength coach, Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC, says, “Ellipticals offer a surprisingly challenging workout, especially if you use one with moving arms and increase the resistance. It’s much harder than it looks, and they increase my heart rate pretty quickly.”
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Compact Ellipticals
If you’re still not sure which compact elliptical is the best fit for you, here are the most important factors we recommend considering:
Footprint
While we have a footprint and portability score for each elliptical in this guide, we recommend carefully measuring your floorspace and ceiling height. Ellipticals are often longer and taller than other cardio machines like treadmills or exercise bikes, so if you’re in a basement or room with a lower ceiling, and you’re tall, you’ll want to make sure you’re not going to hit your head on anything.
Portability
Transport wheels can be a handy feature on elliptical machines to help the owner move the machine with ease around a room. It can also be worth noting the overall weight and foldability of your potential elliptical, especially if you plan to move the machine up or down the stairs.
Weight Capacity
Since compact ellipticals are, well, compact, they may not always have a weight capacity that matches up with the industry standard of 330 pounds. Make sure to check before purchasing, especially if you’re a heavier individual.
If you’re close to the upper limit, you may want to consider an elliptical with a higher weight limit to be safe. One elliptical we tested has a listed weight capacity of 250 pounds, but both of our testers were well under 200 pounds and had durability concerns, so go with the highest weight capacity you can find for added reassurance.
Delivery and Setup
Cardio machines can be large and bulky, especially ellipticals, so you’ll want to make sure you have easy access to your home, or help with the delivery process. Some companies will drop the machine in your home for an extra fee, but many only offer curbside delivery. So, if you live on a high apartment floor, be sure to consider how you’ll get your new machine into your home.
FAQs About the Best Compact Ellipticals
Are compact ellipticals any good?
Yes, compact ellipticals can be a great addition to your home gym. Plus, they take up less space than a traditional elliptical while still helping you reach your fitness goals.
Can you lose weight with a compact elliptical?
Combined with an appropriate nutritional plan, any type of cardio workout can potentially help you lose weight. However, please discuss any concerns or questions related to weight loss with your doctor or a licensed medical professional.
Chris Mohr, PhD, RD, says, “Regular physical activity helps in managing and maintaining a healthy body fat percentage. It does this by burning calories, which can help create a calorie deficit when combined with a nutritious diet. The balance of physical activity and a calorie deficit helps in reducing body fat over time.”
Can I get a low-impact workout on a compact elliptical machine?
Yes, compact ellipticals can be an excellent way to get a low-impact, full-body workout in, regardless of your fitness level. An elliptical can be an excellent piece of exercise equipment for home use because it gives the user a total body workout without leaving their home.
What’s the difference between an elliptical and a cross trainer?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, a cross trainer always has moving handlebars that engage both the lower body and upper body, whereas an elliptical may or may not have moving handles.
References
- Bosch, A. N., Flanagan, K. C., Eken, M. M., Withers, A., Burger, J., & Lamberts, R. P. (2021). Physiological and Metabolic Responses to Exercise on Treadmill, Elliptical Trainer, and Stepper: Practical Implications for Training. International journal of sport nutrition and exercise metabolism, 31(2), 135–142. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.2020-0155
- 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
