We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.
ProForm and NordicTrack are sister brands, owned by ICON Health and Fitness, aka iFIT. Both brands manufacture some of the best cardio machines for at-home use including treadmills, rowers, exercise bikes, and, of course, ellipticals.
When we compare a ProForm vs NordicTrack elliptical, we see a lot of similarities in design, construction, and conveniences. However, ProForm is a brand that is geared toward more budget-conscious shoppers while NordicTrack features higher-end machines—with extra features and bigger price tags, too.
RELATED: Best Budget Elliptical
ProForm vs NordicTrack Elliptical Comparison Chart
ProForm | NordicTrack | |
Price range | $599-$1,799 | $1,299-$2,299 |
Elliptical models | 5 | 4 |
Weight capacity range | 250-325 lbs | 300-375 lbs |
Programming | iFIT | iFIT |
Automatic trainer control | Yes | Yes |
Stride lengths | 15”-19” | 17.5”-32” |
Warranty | 5-10 years on frame, 1-2 years on parts, 1-year labor | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor |
Quick Look: ProForm vs NordicTrack Elliptical
The positive part about comparing these two bands is that you’ll have peace of mind with 10-year frame warranties on nearly all elliptical machines (with the exception of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT).
With either company you choose you’ll have unmatched lower body workouts with iFIT programming, which is one of the best personal training apps available. You’ll also have the chance to experiment with other cardio workouts (like running, walking, rowing, and biking) in addition to strength-training sessions.
Ellipticals from ProForm:
Ellipticals from NordicTrack:
Who Should Buy ProForm Ellipticals
- Anyone looking for a mid-tier cross-trainer
- Folks looking for budget-conscious cardio machines
- People who want to have trainer-led elliptical workouts with iFIT
- Individuals who want the choice between vertical and horizontal stepping patterns
- Folks shopping for front- or rear-drive ellipticals
Who Should Buy NordicTrack Ellipticals
- Folks looking for high-end elliptical trainer machines for home use
- Anyone interested in cardio machines that offer multiple stepping patterns
- People shopping for center and front-drive flywheels
- People with budgets over $1,000 for an elliptical machine
Key Similarities Between ProForm and NordicTrack
- iFIT programming is the same for both brands
- iFIT memberships cost the same for ProForm and NordicTrack
- Both brands only offer one or two models with cushioned pedals
- Financing is available through both brands’ websites
- More than just elliptical workout programs are included
Important Differences Between NordicTrack and ProForm
- ProForm offers two models that feature vertical, stair stepper patterns
- NordicTrack has two models that feature multi-directional pedaling
- ProForm offers one model that functions as both a recumbent exercise bike and an elliptical
Ellipticals Offered by NordicTrack and ProForm
Technically both brands offer four elliptical models each. However, ProFrom also has a fifth option which is not a traditional elliptical but a hybrid between a cross-trainer and a recumbent bike, called the Hybrid Trainer XT. If you’re curious about this unique piece of fitness equipment, you can read all about our hands-on experience in our Hybrid Trainer Elliptical review.
ProForm offers the HIIT Trainer Series, featuring two machines with vertical elliptical paths that mimic stair-stepping (like the Bowflex Max M6) and the Carbon Series which is made up of two front-drive elliptical machines.
The NordicTrack elliptical lineup consists of two series: FreeStride Trainer Ellipticals and Front Drive Ellipticals. Although the NordicTrack doesn’t offer a hybrid elliptical-bike combination, the FreeStride machines are designed to have three options to manipulate your stepping pattern to mimic running, stepping, or the traditional elliptical pattern. Our expert product testers have used (and enjoy) the FS10i and FS14i, our testers agree that both machines have an expensive price tag for what you get.
RELATED: NordicTrack FS10i Review
NordicTrack AirGlide 14i vs ProForm Carbon EL
The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i is our team’s top pick for the best elliptical for home gyms. The AirGlide was released in the summer of 2023 as a new-and-improved (and renamed) version of the fan-favorite NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 elliptical.
The new release took all the solid specs we liked from the Commercial 14.9 and added -5% decline training and up to 15% incline. That said, there are two things we don’t like about the new AirGlide release: It now has a user weight limit of 300 pounds (the 14.9 model used to be 350 pounds) and the adjustable stride length is shorter at 17.8 to 18.5 inches (the 14.9 allowed up to 20 inches).
However, for many home gym owners the AirGlide has a digestible price tag at $1,799. While it’s not NordicTrack’s most expensive machine, it’s well-liked for the solid specs, cushioned pedals, dual handlebars, and iFIT interactive programming options.
ProForm’s most comparable machine to the top-rated AirGlide 14i is the Carbon EL. This is not ProForm’s most high-end option, either. It offers an affordable at-home, low-impact training option at a reasonable price point under $1,000.
The lower price point reflects the fact the Carbon EL doesn’t have a built-in touchscreen. That means you’ll have to use your own device to connect to iFIT, but the Bluetooth capabilities still allow you to take advantage of automatic trainer control, where your resistance levels change based on coaching cues.
You can read more about our experience with iFIT on this machine in our ProForm Carbon EL review.
Both machines are front-drive machines with similar footprints and feature silent magnetic resistance. They also have Bluetooth capabilities, however only the NordicTrack AirGlide 14i has the ability to connect with a heart rate monitoring device.
But, you’ll have to buy NordicTrack’s “SmartBeat” heart rate monitor (sold seperately) to take advantage of technology that automatically adjusts your speed, incline, and decline settings to maintain your workout in an optimal heart-rate zone.
Here is a closer look at how the specs compare:
Comparison Chart For NordicTrack 14.9 vs ProForm Carbon EL
NordicTrack AirGlide 14i | ProForm Carbon EL | |
Price | $1,799 | $799 |
Footprint | 67” L x 25” W x 71” H | 68.5” L x 25” W x 67.75” H |
Weight capacity | 300 lbs | 275 lbs |
Display | 14” HD touchscreen | 5” multi-color display |
Resistance levels | 22 | 18 |
Flywheel | 32 lbs | 15 lbs |
Stride length | 17.8”-18.5” auto-adjustable | 19” power adjustable stride |
Incline | -5% decline to 15% incline | No |
AirGlide Elliptical
NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical
Product Highlights
- Elliptical machine with incline and decline settings
- 14” touchscreen display
- iFIT interactive programming
- Adjustable stride length
- Built-in fan and speakers
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Automatic trainer control with iFIT
- 30-day iFIT trial included
- Large, cushioned pedals
- Bluetooth speakers
- Quiet drive system
Cons
- Expensive price tag
- iFIT trial requires your credit card
- iFIT requires monthly membership fees
Bottom Line
The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical offers both incline and decline training, an adjustable stride length, and a 14-inch touchscreen display for iFIT interactive programming. You’ll enjoy the AirGlide if you want to break a sweat with expert instruction and motivation from iFIT trainers and coaches.
ProForm Carbon EL
ProForm Carbon EL Elliptical
Product Highlights
- 18 levels of silent magnetic resistance
- 0 to 20 degrees of manually adjustable incline
- 5” high-contrast multi-color display
- Tablet holder
- iFIT-compatible with SmartAdjust technology
- Steel frame
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 18 levels of silent magnetic resistance
- 0-20 degrees of incline
- SmartAdjust technology allows iFIT trainer to adjust resistance
- Free 30-day iFIT membership
- Free shipping
Cons
- Incline adjusted manually
- 275-lb user weight capacity
- Long assembly process
Bottom Line
The ProForm Carbon EL elliptical is an affordable machine with both resistance and incline abilities if you’re looking for guided workouts. If you don’t think you’ll use iFIT, there’s probably a better machine for you.
Programming and Technology
Both brands have top-notch iFIT programming at your fingertips. Although a lot of the elliptical models offered by both companies are equipped with touchscreen displays, there are a few models that feature an integrated tablet holder instead. However, you’ll still get personal trainers cheering you on through workouts and the benefits of automatic trainer control, which allows the resistance and incline levels of your machine to change without taking your hands off the handlebars.
RELATED: iFIT Reviews
If you’re a new customer, you’ll even get a free 30-day iFIT trial with your purchase of an elliptical from either NordicTrack or ProForm. Your iFIT subscription can be utilized on and off the elliptical with on-demand classes ranging from machine-based interval training to strength sessions using dumbbells—iFIT even features more restorative work like yoga and meditation.
In addition to on-demand classes and tracking metrics, you’ll also have the ability to utilize Google Maps technology, which allows you to drop a pin nearly anywhere in the world and map out a scenic route to view during your elliptical session. What’s more, is that this technology will also change incline (when applicable to your machine) and resistance levels based on the grade of the route mapped out.
RELATED: Best iFIT Workouts
Company Policies
Although similar, here is a quick look at the company policies for both NordicTrack and ProForm.
Warranty
With the exception of the ProFrom Hybrid Trainer XT (which has a five-year warranty on the frame) all other elliptical machines manufactured by ProForm and NordicTrack come standard with a 10-year warranty on the frame. This is on-par for other big brands, but some of the best warranties we see on larger exercise equipment like ellipticals lasts at least 15 years.
Additionally, most NordicTrack ellipticals have a two-year warranty on parts and one year on labor while ProForm offers just one year on both parts and labor.
Returns
The fine print on both websites is nearly the same when it comes to the return policies. You’ll have a 30-day window to request your return with customer service. However, any upgraded services like in-home assembly cannot be refunded to you when you make a return. You’ll also be on the hook for a $250 shipping fee and 10% processing fee.
With our team’s experience with both brands, we find that customer service can be hit-or-miss. I’ve used the live chat function to ask customer service questions and it took a day or two to get a response back via email, but sometimes the chat function chimes on and I have someone answering questions within a few minutes.
Financing
Both NordicTrack and ProForm offer 0% financing options through TD Bank if you qualify. It’s easy to apply and you can do it on the website during the checkout process. Loan terms vary slightly between the brands, but both websites offer loan terms that cover at least 30 months, which is what we like to see for financing on the best elliptical machines.
Final Thoughts on ProForm vs NordicTrack Elliptical
With both brands sharing a parent company, you may have noticed there are quite a few similarities when it comes to ProForm and NordicTrack machines. However, there are still a few key differences:
- ProForm’s price point is slightly more budget-friendly than NordicTrack, which is fairly high-end for home cardio machines.
- ProForm offers one model with a hybrid design featuring both a recumbent bike and elliptical.
- NordicTrack offers two unique three-in-one machines with the ability to mimic stair-stepping, running, and a traditional elliptical.
- All of NordicTack’s machines come standard with built-in smart touchscreens, where ProForm has a few models that require your own device.
ProForm vs NordicTrack Elliptical FAQs
Is ProForm better than NordicTrack?
When comparing if ProForm is better than NordicTrack, you’ll have to consider what you want and need from your cardio equipment. However, if you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, ProForm might feel like a better choice.
Is NordicTrack elliptical worth it?
Our expert product testers at GGR agree that NordicTrack ellipticals are worth the investment and are all around high-quality, stable, and reliable. We also like the fact that NordicTrack has financing options to make such a large investment more doable.
Which elliptical trainer is best?
The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i as our top pick for the best ellipticals for home gyms overall because of the quality construction, interactive programming, and heavy flywheel. However, we curated an entire list dedicated to help you find the best elliptical for your space. Here are just a few of our other top picks:
Best Elliptical Overall: NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
Best Elliptical Machine Runner-Up: Sole E25
Best Elliptical for Comfort: Bowflex Max Trainer M6
Best Elliptical for Knee Pain: ProForm Hybrid Trainer
Best Elliptical for Small Spaces: NordicTrack FS10i
Best Elliptical for Beginners: ProForm Carbon EL
Best Budget Elliptical: Horizon EX-59
Best Under-Desk Elliptical: Cubii Move
Best Elliptical Under $1,000: NiceDay Elliptical Machine
Best Elliptical Under $500: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Machine
Further reading
ProForm and NordicTrack are sister brands, owned by ICON Health and Fitness, aka iFIT. Both brands manufacture some of the best cardio machines for at-home use including treadmills, rowers, exercise bikes, and, of course, ellipticals. When we compare a ProForm vs NordicTrack elliptical, we see a lot of similarities in design, construction, and conveniences. However, ProForm is a brand that is geared toward more budget-conscious shoppers while NordicTrack features higher-end machines—with extra features and bigger price tags, » Read more about: ProForm vs NordicTrack Elliptical (2024): Who Makes The Best Cross-Trainer? » Read more
SBD Apparel is making some of the best powerlifting gear available and their lever Belt is no exception. The SBD Belt is unique in its function, appearance, and quality. Although pricey, if you want one of the best powerlifting belts that money can buy, then the SBD Belt is a great option. Read more
You can break PRs without having to break the bank. Check out our top picks for the best budget barbell on the market. Read more
Whether you want a supportive community or prefer to do things on your own, these are the best weight loss programs to help you reach your goals. Read more