Best Ellipticals Under $1,000 (2026): Affordable, High-Quality Cardio Machines For Home Use

At a Glance 

• Sturdy elliptical with iFIT compatibility
• Heavier elliptical at 205 lbs
• Below-average 275-lb weight capacity
• 10-year frame warranty exceeds the standard

Available for just under the $1,000 threshold (you may be able to find it even cheaper during sales windows), the ProForm Carbon EL is our top overall pick because it offers tremendous value and performance without an inflated price tag. We particularly like that it syncs with iFIT, an interactive programming platform that offers over 10,000 on-demand courses catering to disciplines like cardio, strength, yoga, and more. Having utilized iFIT on some of the best treadmills, exercise bikes, and other cardio equipment, we rated the Carbon EL a perfect 5 out of 5 for dynamic programming. 

Value: 4.5/5

Footprint & Portability: 3.5/5

Tech Capabilities: 4.5/5

Why We Like the ProForm Carbon EL

With iFIT connectivity, Bluetooth speakers, and a multi-color, high-contrast display, the ProForm Carbon EL is one of the rare budget-friendly ellipticals that offers excellent tech features. In fact, it earns a near-perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 in this category thanks to its digital capabilities. 

From a comfort standpoint, this machine also checks an important box with an accommodating 19-inch adjustable stride length. Why does this matter? Taller athletes may need a longer stride length in order to achieve a full range of motion when using an elliptical. This is another rarity amongst budget-minded elliptical machines, as we rarely see models meet our threshold of an 18- to 20-inch stride length. Accordingly, we score the ProForm Carbon EL at 4 out of 5 for adjustability and ergonomics.

“The elliptical also has fixed and moving handles, so you can adjust your grip and your workout as you go,” says our expert product tester and former professional soccer player Caroline Lubinsky. 

Furthermore, the Carbon EL has cushioned foot pedals that offer three adjustable positions. This can be another nice feature you might not witness with other ellipticals at this price point. Add in 18 levels of resistance and a rock-solid 10-year frame warranty, and it’s easy to see why we rate this machine at 4.5 out of 5 for value. 

Alternatives

Although it’s by no means the biggest elliptical machine we’ve tested, the Carbon EL isn’t exactly the most portable profile, either. Tipping the scales at 205 pounds, we rated it a 3.5 out of 5 for its footprint and portability. Caroline used the front rollers to move the machine, but be warned that it’s a bit heavy and cumbersome during transport. 

In addition, while ProForm states that the 18 levels of magnetic resistance are “silent,” Caroline said she felt the noise was actually at a moderate level. So, if you’re looking for a whisper-quiet machine, this may not be it.

Finally, you’ll need to budget some time (and patience) to put this machine together. Caroline rated the delivery and setup at 3 out of 5, describing the process as “annoying.” 

“It’d be best completed with a friend because of the many pieces,” she told me.

If space is an issue, you could go with the ultra-compact Cubii Move. However, keep in mind that this under-desk elliptical will give you more of a mini stair stepper feel than a traditional elliptical training experience.

Testing Breakdown

Here’s how the ProForm Carbon EL fared, based on our elliptical testing methodology.

Vs. The Average

The ProForm Carbon EL is more affordable than the average elliptical machine and has a substantially better warranty package. However, it falls a bit short in weight capacity by 55 pounds. 

You can read more in our full ProForm Carbon EL review.

At a Glance 

• Budget-friendly elliptical with 10 available resistance levels
• Smaller flywheel weight than the average
• Below-average weight capacity
• Lifetime frame warranty

Earning a rock-solid overall rating of 4 out of 5 from GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, the Horizon EX-59 can be a smart investment for home gym owners looking for a long-term cardio solution. With a sturdy build that supports users up to 300 pounds, you can attack your elliptical workouts with supreme confidence. This is also one of the most comfortable machines we’ve gotten our hands (and feet) on, as Linday rates it at 4 out of 5 for adjustability and ergonomics, noting, “It certainly is not as sturdy as a commercial model, but I was really happy with the stability for the price and size.” 

Footprint & Portability: 4/5

Ergonomics: 4/5

Value: 4/5

Why We Like the Horizon Fitness EX-59

Despite its budget-friendly price tag, the EX-59 provides a smooth, stable workout experience you might not expect given the sub-$1,000 price tag. “This is super smooth,” Lindsay told me. “There was no shifting when I took it to top speeds.” This workout efficiency was even more impressive given the EX-59’s lighter 14-pound flywheel. For reference, lighter flywheels can oftentimes be more erratic and loud when training at higher intensities, so we appreciate the performance aspects of this Horizon Fitness build.

The textured foot pedals also help you maintain your footing as you exercise, and an 18-inch stride length means this machine can be accommodating enough for users of just about any height. The EX-59 also has fixed and moving handlebars, opening the door to full-body workouts. 

We also appreciate that the EX-59 has a bunch of user-friendly conveniences, including built-in speakers, a USB charging port, three water bottle holders, and a media shelf for DIY streaming setups. As a result, we award it a 4 out of 5 in this category.

Although this machine is longer than the average elliptical by nearly a foot, it still earns a strong footprint and portability score of 4 out of 5. This stems from the fact that it’s easy to move with the front transport wheels and rear handle. So, if you want to move the EX-59 when you’re done breaking a sweat, you shouldn’t have any trouble. “The wheels make it doable for me to move alone,” adds Lindsay. “It felt smaller and easier than a commercial machine.”

Alternatives

One of the few areas where the EX-59 didn’t blow us away was customizations. We rated it a 3 out of 5 since there’s only 10 levels of magnetic resistance and no adjustable incline settings. Again, that shouldn’t be a complete surprise given the price point, but it does limit its versatility when compared to other ellipticals. 

The EX-59 also falls a bit short in tech capabilities, earning a 3.5 out of 5 for the category. It has a basic display with three LED windows that show your workout metrics…and that’s about it. Luckily, there is a device holder so you can stream your favorite shows or workout apps. That said, for athletes interested in training with the latest tech features and conveniences, this is not the silhouette for such desires.

If you want a more high-tech elliptical, check out the ProForm Carbon EL. This similarly-priced machine earned a near-perfect score of 4.5 out of 5 for tech capabilities, as well as a 5-out-of-5 rating for dynamic programming.

Testing Breakdown

Here’s how the Horizon EX-59 scored based on our testing methodology. As you can see, it met our threshold for a 3 out of 5 in every examined category. 

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. 

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

At a Glance 

• Unparalleled weight capacity
• Inferior warranty compared to average elliptical
• Feels secure and stable in use
• Free shipping and 30-day money-back guarantee

The YOSUDA EM1 Long-Stride Magnetic Elliptical Machine is available in two models: the Glide (18.91-inch stride length) or the Glide Select (20.09-inch stride length). Both machines offer a quiet workout experience thanks to a smooth magnetic drive system. Most impressively, though, the Glide boasts a 400-pound weight capacity (the Glide Select ups that to 500 pounds), helping it earn a perfect durability score of 5 out of 5. We chose this as the best compact elliptical since the EM1 occupies just 8.6 square feet, which is smaller than most coffee tables. 

Durability: 5/5

Value: 4/5

Footprint & Portability: 4/5

Why We Like the YOSUDA EM1 Long-Stride Magnetic Elliptical Machine

Measuring just over 4 feet long, roughly 2 feet wide, and a shade over 5 feet high, the EM1 definitely meets our standards for a compact elliptical machine. This makes it ideal for home gym owners with limited room. Despite the smaller-than-average dimensions, though, our expert product tester stated their training experience was comfortable, effective, and downright pleasant.

“The stride going forward feels very much like running,” she told me. “Going backwards, the stride feels smooth, but more of a glide than a run. I enjoyed the workout versatility, and I would use this machine again for fun or for elderly clients.”

The compact framing also lends itself to efficient portability. Our tester rated the EM1 Long-Stride Magnetic Elliptical Machine at 4 out of 5 for the category, noting, “It’s not a heavy machine, but it’s not light either. The machine is top-heavy when you’re rolling it, but for me, it was easy to move.” 

The aptly-named Glide series also proved to be quiet during operation. Our tester said the steps and handles moved smoothly through their range of motion with limited noise, though the resistance knob does have some audible feedback when you turn it. That said, our tester appreciated the easy-to-use adjustment mechanism that made mid-workout resistance changes a breeze.

Alternatives

Unfortunately, this YOSUDA product left us wanting more in a few key areas. First, the display is lackluster, resulting in a 3-out-of-5 tech capabilities score. “The font is easy to read, but the screen is not like an iPhone; it’s more like a GameBoy from the ‘90s,” our tester notes. “It’s a simple green and black display versus a blue light touch screen. You can only look at one thing on the screen at a time, too.” 

Perhaps the most disappointing aspect, though, is the lack of built-in programming. While other models on this list feature 10+ programs, you get nothing with the Yosuda EM1. “You are on your own just doing it for time, distance, or calories,” our tester told me. 

Luckily, the Glide connects via Bluetooth to iConsole+, Kinomap, and the FED app for some digital programming options. You also get a free year of FED premium courses; a nice bonus that adds a bit of value. Overall, though, we only rate the programming at 2.5 out of 5 since there aren’t any built-in workouts to choose from.

If you want a robust range of programming options, we highly recommend the Schwinn 430, which features 22 built-in workouts. 

Testing Breakdown

Here’s how the YOSUDA EM1 performed during testing. We were highly impressed with its durability and portability, but felt underserved by the included tech and programming.

Vs. The Average

The YOSUDA EM1 Long-Stride Magnetic Elliptical Machine is slightly cheaper than the average elliptical. While we’re impressed with its best-in-class weight capacity, we’re somewhat disappointed in its inferior one-year warranty.

At a Glance 

• One of the most affordable ellipticals on the market
• Below-average 13-lb flywheel weight
• Average 330-lb weight capacity
• 3-year frame warranty

If you are just starting to experiment with elliptical training, you may want a machine that is straightforward and accessible. Available for roughly $550, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Magnetic Elliptical can be ideal for beginners looking to learn the ins and outs of this cardio modality. GGR Senior Director of Content Kate Meier used this machine for several workouts and can attest to how simple it is in operation. 

“I like this Sunny Health offering for beginners because there are a whopping 24 easy-to-follow programs, so you don’t have to come up with your own beginner elliptical workout,” she told me in reference to her 4-out-of-5 programming rating. Plus, we think this is one of the best elliptical machines in terms of value, rating the SF-E3912 at 4.5 out of 5 for the category; you’re paying less than half of the average elliptical yet still get a sturdy machine with industry standard specs.

Durability: 5/5

Dynamic Programming: 4/5

Footprint & Portability: 4/5

Why We Like the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Machine

This Sunny Health & Fitness machine actually earned a perfect durability score despite the preconceived notion that cheap machines aren’t well-built. Unlike similarly priced ellipticals, this model can accommodate heavier users with a 330-pound weight capacity. This is especially impressive since the elliptical has a compact footprint of 55 inches long by 23 inches wide by 64.5 inches high and only weighs 104.8 pounds. Most importantly, the machine remains stable during use, according to Kate. “During my workouts, I pedaled forward and backward, and I noticed only minimal shifting while in use,” she told me. 

With an electro-magnetic system, the Sunny Magnetic Elliptical offers 16 levels of resistance that can be utilized via the center console. Beginner athletes can efficiently ease into a training session, slowly increasing workout intensities through their warm-up and working circuits. We also like that this machine offers both stationary and moving handlebars, which can offer stability for those just getting used to an elliptical as well as upper-body workout potential for when you’re ready to progress. As a result, we rate the customizations at a 4 out of 5. 

The backlit display is basic but reports the essentials like your heart rate, speed, calories burned, and distance. Also, if you need more from your monitor, the machine’s built-in media shelf can be helpful to safely incorporate your devices for additional training guidance or entertainment. Accordingly, we rate the conveniences at a 4 out of 5.  

Alternatives

While Sunny Health & Fitness deserves credit for building such a durable yet wallet-friendly machine, it’s fair to point out that the stride length of 15.5 inches is on the short side; taller users may not be quite as comfortable with the SF-E3912. As someone who stands 6 feet, 2 inches in height, I’d be hesitant about relying on this silhouette for regular training. As such, we rate the ergonomics at 3.5 out of 5. 

Kate relayed that her experience with putting the SF-E3912 together wasn’t exactly a breeze, either. “I personally assembled this machine, and it took about 1.5 hours,” she told me. “The instructions had complicated diagrams that combined several steps into one. I’ve put together commercial-grade ellipticals before and didn’t have this many issues.”

For a particular paint point of the setup, Kate notes that attaching the pedals requires some finesse and reworking screws to get it right. Sunny Health provides the tools necessary, but Kate found it easier to use her own Philips head screwdriver. Since you do get free shipping, we still rate the delivery and setup process at a 4 out of 5. 

Concerned about the SF-E3912’s stride length? Taller folks should look into the Horizon Fitness EX-59, which has an 18-inch stride length that should feel more comfortable if you’re vertically gifted. 

Testing Breakdown

The Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Machine scored at least a 3 in all of the performance-related categories we assess. 

Vs. The Average

The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical is substantially cheaper than the average elliptical machine by more than 50%. Despite weighing just over 100 pounds, it boasts the same user weight capacity as machines that weigh about 75 pounds more. 

For more information on this budget-friendly machine, check out our Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical review.

At a Glance 

• Affordable under-desk elliptical with available free shipping
• LCD screen that tracks time, stride count, mileage, and calories burned
• Average 300-lb weight capacity
• Under-desk orientation does not support upper-body exercises

We know the Cubii Move doesn’t look like an elliptical; it’s a small pedaling machine (similar to a mini stair stepper) that can be stored under your desk (just like an under-desk treadmill) or kept at your feet while you watch TV. That said, this unconventional yet ultra-compact cardio tool can be a great way to support a healthy, active lifestyle if you spend most of your day on the computer. We rate the Cubii Move’s value at 4.5 out of 5, too, since it costs about the same as a few tubs of your favorite protein powder.

Footprint & Portability: 5/5

Durability: 3.5/5

Ergonomics: 4/5

Why We Like the Cubii Move

We’re BIG fans of compact exercise equipment, and the Cubii Move certainly qualifies as that. Measuring just under 2 feet long, 19.7 inches wide, and 9.7 inches high, this under-desk cardio machine takes up as much room as a few pairs of dumbbells. Plus, it only tips the scales at 17 pounds, meaning you can easily reposition it for that picture perfect setup. 

“There aren’t any wheels on it, but it’s light enough for most people to handle and move around in your home or office,” our tester told me, rating the Move a 5 out of 5 for footprint and portability. 

Of course, you shouldn’t expect the same type of workout experience from an under-desk model as a traditional, full-sized machine. After all, there are no handlebars for upper-body engagement. Still, our product tester was impressed with how comfortable the Cubii Move is to use, rating the adjustability and ergonomics at 4 out of 5. 

“The pedaling is smooth and feels comfortable—worth while for under-desk elliptical training,” our tester told me.

Although the Cubii Move does not offer incline adjustment settings, it does have six levels of toggleable resistance. Remember, you’re not relying on this for high-intensity training; rather, this is a device you can utilize during work hours without causing any interference to your scheduled phone calls, video conferences, or digital meetings. 

Alternatives

Inherently limited in its capabilities, it’s still fair to want a bit more from the Cubii Move in terms of customizations. Six levels of resistance sounds good, in theory, but in practice, it left us a bit underwhelmed, resulting in a 3-out-of-5 rating for the category. Our tester had to leave it set on the highest settings, noting, “I hardly felt any difference between the levels.” 

Although this ultra-budget, under-desk elliptical has a 300-pound weight capacity, we wouldn’t call it the most durable machine. The Cubii Move features tons of plastic parts, so you run the risk of cracking the plastic if you’re not mindful of how you handle it during transport and training. We still give it a 3.5 out of 5 for durability, but it’s definitely something to be aware of. 

If you prefer a standard elliptical machine yet still need a compact profile for smaller spaces, we recommend the Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Elliptical, which earned a 4 out of 5 for footprint and portability. 

Testing Breakdown

The Cubii Move earned solid scores across the board, though we acknowledge it’s not an apples-to-apples comparison with the other entries on our list of the best ellipticals under $1,000.

Editor’s Note: Since this is an under-desk elliptical, we did not factor in conveniences or dynamic programming into our overall rating.

Vs. The Average

To put this into proper perspective, we compared the Cubii Move to your typical under-desk elliptical machine. As you can see, it’s on par or exceeds the averages in every category.

At a Glance 

• Streamlined console with multiple screens
• 20 levels of computer-controlled resistance
• Slightly below-average weight capacity
• Above-average warranty

It’s nice to simply step onto a cardio machine, press a button, and get right into a good workout. That’s precisely what you can do on the Schwinn 430, which offers a whopping 22 built-in programs catering to a range of training interests! These modules include beginner- and advanced-level options for workouts such as heart rate control, fitness tests, and customized sessions. This results in an easy score of 5 out of 5 for dynamic programming, as you can use the 430 for intense elliptical workouts for runners or more casual, steady-state sessions.

Editor’s Note: We have not tested the 430 elliptical in our facilities, but we have been able to test the Schwinn 470—a since-discontinued model that should give you a good feel of what to expect from the budget-friendly 430.

Customizations: 4/5

Value: 4/5

Dynamic Programming: 5/5

Why We Like the Schwinn 430 Elliptical

One of the downsides with the sub-$1,000 price range is that it limits your ability to stream workouts through an app. Luckily, the Schwinn 430 stands apart from other similarly priced ellipticals by offering a whopping 22 built-in workout programs. Having this library conveniently at your fingertips can be great for promoting regular challenges and workout progression without the need for a secondary subscription. As a result, we rate it a rock-solid 4 out of 5 for value. 

In addition to being packed with workouts, the 430 is loaded with features, as well. You’ll find a USB port, media shelf, water bottle holder, a cooling fan, dual speakers, and even an input for MP3 devices. We had no complaints regarding similar conveniences on the Schwinn 470 during our testing. We also appreciate the two DualTrack LCD displays that allow you to view programs and goal tracking. Overall, we rate the conveniences at a 3.5 out of 5. 

Both the 470 that we tested and the 430 have the same type of magnetic resistance, as well as a 20-inch stride length (which can be a big plus for taller users). In testing, we found the 470 to be extremely quiet, and we can speculate that with similar specs, the 430 will be just as silent. There are 20 levels of resistance on the 430, and it is computer controlled; in other words, you can simply press buttons to change the resistance. 

Alternatives

Be warned: This is not a compact machine in the least bit. Conversely, it’s rather large measuring nearly 6 feet long and more than 2 feet wide, meaning you’ll need sufficient space to fit this in your home gym or office; make sure to measure ahead of time. Plus, the Schwinn 430 weighs nearly 170 pounds, leading to a footprint and portability score of 3.5 out of 5. 

There are two other callouts worth mentioning. First, the 430 lacks Bluetooth connectivity, which can be a hindrance if you like to sync your fitness tracker with your cardio machine for effective data monitoring. Secondly, while many companies offer free shipping, that’s not the case with Schwinn. Be prepared to pay $199 for shipping, which elevates the overall investment total to over the $1,000 threshold. However, you can still find the 430 on other retailers that may offer free shipping, so check all your options before you make a final decision.

If you’re concerned about the lack of connectivity, look into the ProForm Carbon EL, which has Bluetooth speakers for an enhanced workout experience.

Testing Breakdown

Here’s how the Schwinn 430 Elliptical measured up, based on our testing protocols. 

Vs. The Average

The Schwinn 430 Elliptical is about $300 cheaper than the average elliptical. We appreciate the superior warranty coverage but would be remiss without pointing out that the flywheel is much lighter than the average machine, which can lead to louder mid-workout performances.