The Best Budget Elliptical Machines for Your Home Gym
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You do not have to spend a small fortune in order to get a good elliptical machine in 2024. While they may not be as fancy as some top-of-the-line ellipticals, you can find a budget-friendly elliptical equipped with a variety of features.
Ellipticals have really carved out a great niche in the world of fitness. They offer a low-impact cardio workout that not only increases your cardiovascular endurance but also works muscles throughout your entire body. There are elliptical cross trainers at just about every price point, making them a viable option for those of us looking to keep the cost down.
With so many affordable options, it can be hard to determine which is the right one for you. The bottom line is that the best budget elliptical is the one that fits both your space and price point while also enabling a killer joint-friendly workout.
To help you in your search, we have compiled a list of our favorite ellipticals that are not only budget-friendly but also meet a variety of wants and needs. So, whether you are tight on space and need a compact elliptical machine, are looking for a piece of exercise equipment with interactive technology or simply want to save a buck, we've got you covered.
Our Picks for the Best Budget Ellipticals of 2024:
- Best Overall Budget Elliptical: Sole E20
- Best Hybrid Elliptical + Recumbent Bike: ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT
- Best Interactive Budget Elliptical: NordicTrack FS10i
- Best Budget Elliptical With Incline: Sole E25
- Best Budget Elliptical With Worldwide Workouts: ProForm Carbon EL
- Best Budget Climber Elliptical: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E3919
- Best Budget Elliptical With Bluetooth Connectivity: Horizon 7.0 AE
- Best Under-Desk Budget Elliptical: Cubii JR2+
- Best Rower-Elliptical Combo: Teeter Power 10
Best Overall Budget Elliptical: Sole E20
Sole
Key Features:
- Price: $599.99
- Dimensions: 58 inches x 20 inches x 64 inches
- Flywheel weight: 14.4 pounds
- Product weight: 175 pounds
- User weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Warranty: Lifetime on frame, three years on electronics, one year on parts and labor
Our best overall budget elliptical is the Sole E20, an entry-level elliptical equipped with all the features and components you really need for a solid workout. Sole Fitness is a well-respected name in the world of fitness equipment, known for manufacturing exercise machines that are durable, dependable and economical. So it is no big surprise that its entry-level elliptical has snagged the top spot on our list.
As far as budget elliptical machines go, the E20 has a lot to offer: It features built-in Bluetooth speakers, a water bottle holder, an integrated tablet holder and a small but easy-to-use backlit electronic LED display where you can monitor your workout progress and heart rate. The E20 has built-in pulse sensors on the handlebars to track your heart rate and is heart rate chest strap compatible (although you’ll have to buy that separately).
But where the E20 really shines is in its construction. The oversized 15-inch foot pedals have an 18-inch manually adjustable stride length and are engineered with a two degree inward slope intended to encourage proper form and reduce the impact to your joints. If you happen to be a particularly tall athlete, you may find the 18-inch stride restrictive.
According to Sole, the combination of the E20’s 14.4-pound flywheel and a high gear ratio results in a smooth ride during workouts that will challenge users of all abilities. The E20 also has incline capabilities that add variety to your workout. But, it is a manually adjusted incline so it may be a bit cumbersome to use—you’ll need to stop your workout and get off the machine to change it.
When purchasing the Sole E20, you receive a 90-day free trial to Sole’s app, Studio. After the trial, a membership will run you approximately $19.99 a month and provides dozens of workout programs that vary by type, length and intensity. If you prefer to forgo a membership, the E20 does come with six standard and two heart rate programs.
Pros:
- Good weight capacity
- Decent flywheel weight for price
- Bluetooth speakers
- Durable frame
- Straight forward assembly
Cons:
- Stride length may be short for some
- Incline adjustment is manual
Best Hybrid Elliptical + Recumbent Bike: ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT
ProFrom
Key Features:
- Price: $599
- Dimensions: 56.8 inches x 25.4 inches x 49.8 inches
- Flywheel weight: 13 pounds
- Product weight: 146 pounds
- User weight capacity: 350 pounds
- Warranty: One year on parts, motors and electronics; one-year labor warranty
Can’t decide between a stationary exercise bike or elliptical? Not to worry. With the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT, you don’t have to make that decision. Thanks to its unique two-in-one design, you get both an exercise bike and elliptical in the same machine. The versatility here really can’t be understated as it opens up a host of workout options to keep your fitness routine fresh.
The machine’s adjustable console pivots into two different positions to accommodate both recumbent bike and elliptical use. This console features a good-sized device shelf, 5.5-inch display and QuickSpeed controls. The large and cushioned seat also adjusts forwards and backwards on an angle which allows multiple users to customize the fit.
The cushioned and oversized foot pedals are also adjustable. When used as an elliptical, they appear flat but then flip up when you want to transition it to a bike. According to ProForm, the large size of the pedals increases both the stability and level of comfort. However, the stride length is rather short—15 inches—which may prevent taller individuals from hopping on the machine.
If you prefer interactive programming on your home gym equipment, you are in luck. The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is not only iFit Bluetooth enabled, but it also comes with a 30-day iFit membership which unlocks access to thousands of studio and global workouts led by elite trainers. When immersed in any workout, the trainer has the ability to automatically control the 16 levels of digital resistance as you go. Each level is frictionless and relatively quiet thanks to the Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR).
After the 30 day trial, membership will auto renew for $39 per month. Unfortunately, the Hybrid Trainer XT does not have any pre-programmed workouts so you’ll likely have to keep up with your membership to get any kind of guided workout.
Pros:
- Two-in-one design
- iFit enabled
- Comfortable seat
- Straightforward assembly
- Quiet and smooth
- Versatile
Cons:
- Shorter stride length
Best Interactive Budget Elliptical: NordicTrack FS10i
NordicTrack
Key Features:
- Price: $1,299.00
- Dimensions: 58.5 inches x 29.5 inches x 74 inches
- Flywheel weight: 30 pounds
- Product weight: 285 pounds
- User weight capacity: 375 pounds
- Warranty: 10-year frame warranty
If you are interested in a budget-friendly elliptical with a strong immersive training experience, the NordicTrack FS10i is a great option. This iFit enabled machine comes with a 30-day free trial to iFit which opens the door to thousands of studio and global classes, offering everything from cycling and strength to hiking and walking. You can virtually train anywhere in the world with the integration of Google Map technology.
In terms of technology, the FS10i offers more than you would typically find on an entry-level elliptical. It comes with a 10-inch interactive and tilting screen. Combined with its 20 watt sound array and Bluetooth audio capabilities, users really get to experience immersive training. The FS10i also has automatic trainer controls which means when taking a class, the trainer adjusts the 24 levels of digital resistance and up to 10 percent incline for a hands-free training session.
You do get a 30 day free trial to iFit when making this purchase but beyond that, you will likely need a membership. Since the FS10i does not come with any pre-programmed workouts, you should account for this monthly membership into the cost.
The FS10i features a rather impressive 30-pound flywheel, 375-pound user weight capacity and a long 32-inch auto-adjustable stride, which means it can accommodate a wide range of user heights and weights. The pedals can be used to glide, step or run so you have the opportunity to change up your workouts. Other conveniences include a water bottle holder, front transport wheels and SoftTouch upper body grips.
Pros:
- Immersive training
- Heavy flywheel
- Long and adjustable strides
- User weight capacity
- Automatic incline
Cons:
- Must pay for an iFit membership to use the machine (after 30 days)
- Switching the stride length can be tricky
Best Overall Budget Elliptical With Incline: Sole E25
Sole
Key Features:
- Price: $899
- Dimensions: 70 inches x 24 inches x 71 inches
- Flywheel weight: 20 pounds
- Product weight: 212 pounds
- User weight capacity: 350 pounds
- Warranty: Lifetime on the frame, three years on electronics, one year on parts and labor
You will find the Sole E25 listed on many “best of” reviews as this high-quality machine is sold for just under $1,200 and stacked with some impressive specs. The E25 has a power incline functionality using ECB technology with a ramp angle that adjusts up to 20 different levels of incline—not something typically seen on a machine in this price range. But the E25 offers more than just good incline capabilities.
The pedals move in both a forward and backward motion, adding variety to any workout while also hitting different muscle groups. Add in some upper body work by using the moving handlebars to effectively work your entire body while reducing stress on your joints. Although the console is basic, it gets the job done displaying workout progress and stats on a white backlit LCD display.
The E25 has 10 standard built-in workouts. Other notable features include built-in Bluetooth speakers, a USB charging port, a built-in cooling fan, 15-inch cushioned foot pedals with a two degree inward slope, a water bottle holder, stationary handlebars with built-in pulse sensors for heart rate monitoring and an included chest strap for precise and wireless monitoring.
The most recent model of the E25 comes with an integrated tablet holder to stream your favorite workout routine or get lost in your favorite show. It is not as fancy as ellipticals with large built-in interactive screens, but for less than $1,200 it is quite the value purchase.
Pros:
- iFit capabilities
- Power incline/decline
- 20 levels of resistance
- Pre-programmed workouts
- Integrated speakers and cooling fan
Cons:
- Big footprint
- Assembly
- Stride does not adjust
Best Budget Elliptical With Worldwide Workouts: ProForm Carbon EL
ProForm
Key Features:
- Price: $799
- Dimensions: 68.5 inches x 25 inches x 67.75 inches
- Flywheel weight: 15 pounds
- Product weight: 202 pounds
- User weight capacity: 275 pounds
- Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, one-year parts and labor warranty
The ProForm Carbon EL brings global workouts to your home gym. For less than $800, the Carbon EL comes with an integrated device shelf where you can connect your smart device to stream iFit, turning this budget-friendly elliptical into a smart, immersive training experience. When you’re using iFit, the machine uses SmartAdjust technology to increase or decrease your speed or incline to match the terrain or workout you’re seeing on screen. If you prefer to get lost in beautiful scenery, simply plug a destination in on the map to virtually experience it with iFit integration of Google Maps technology.
The ProForm Carbon EL is constructed from high-quality steel with a front-drive design that users describe as sturdy and smooth. Its 18 levels of Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR) can be conveniently controlled by QuickSpeed buttons located on the console. Combined with a 20 degree adjustable ramp, the Carbon EL also targets different muscle groups. Although there is a decent range of resistance levels (18), the flywheel weighs just 15 pounds. As such, it may not be challenging enough for more experienced athletes.
Other important specs and conveniences to be aware of include a 19-inch adjustable stride, oversized pedals, water bottle holder and dual two-inch speakers. While there are integrated front transport wheels, the Carbon EL weighs a solid 202 pounds so you won’t want to be moving it around more than necessary.
Pros:
- iFit enabled
- 30-day trial included
- Convenient controls
- Adjustable incline
- Sturdy
Cons:
- Light flywheel
- Small five-inch monitor
- You’ll need to use your own tablet to stream iFit classes
Best Budget Climber Elliptical: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3919
Sunny Health & Fitness
Key Features:
- Price: $499.99
- Dimensions: 44 inches x 26 inches x 64 inches
- Flywheel weight: 13 pounds
- Product weight: 94.8 pounds
- User weight capacity: 260 pounds
- Warranty: Three year structural frame warranty, 180 days on parts and components
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3919 is a compact and unique cardio machine that combines both a vertical and horizontal pedal path, creating a shorter elliptical motion with a climbing component. The result? Users can hit multiple muscle groups in one sweat session. The overall stride is just 10 inches which is quite a bit smaller than you’ll find on traditional ellipticals. But the nine-inch vertical component of the stride should accommodate taller users.
The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E3919 has a light 13-pound flywheel and eight levels of manually adjusted magnetic resistance. There is a basic LCD performance monitor that displays key workout stats including speed, RPM, distance, calories and pulse. Pulse grips are located on the stationary handlebars but not on the moving ones.
If you are looking to stay entertained while climbing away, the SF-E3919 does come with an integrated device holder. As far as conveniences go, you will find a water bottle holder and non-slip pedals but not much else. For less than $500, we would not expect a ton more.
Pros:
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Unique pedal motion
- Works upper and lower body
Cons:
- Light flywheel
- Disappointing warranty
Best Budget Elliptical With Bluetooth Connectivity: Horizon 7.0 AE
Horizon
Key Features:
- Price: $999
- Dimensions: 76 inches x 24 inches x 65.5 inches
- Flywheel weight: 23 pounds
- Product weight: 220 pounds
- User weight capacity: 325 pounds
- Warranty: Lifetime frame and brake warranty, three years on parts, one year on flywheel and labor
Horizon manufactures reliable and durable cardio machines at reasonable prices, and the Horizon 7.0 AE certainly follows that precedent. It has a slew of great features, most notable of which is its advanced Bluetooth connectivity. It enables you to connect to multiple devices and stream your favorite music, podcasts or entertainment of choice through the integrated Bluetooth speakers.
If you like being able to analyze your workout metrics, Horizon provides a few options to do so. The Horizon 7.0 AE includes a free app to not only control your workout but to also push data to a fitness app of your choosing. There are reports that this app can be glitchy and some users felt it was more trouble than it is worth. Still, using the Bluetooth technology you can connect to other apps. This elliptical also comes equipped with a built-in device holder and rapid charging USB port.
Although the 7.0 AE does not have a touchscreen, it does come with a basic LCD display on which you can choose from one of the eight workout programs. The 7.0 AE has an ergonomic six-star frame which supports user weights up to 325 pounds and is described as both rugged and comfortable. Featuring a 23-pound flywheel, 20 levels of resistance and 20 levels of advanced power incline, the 7.0 AE delivers a smooth and challenging workout for beginners and experienced athletes alike.
Pros:
- Durable frame
- Solid range of resistance and incline
- Warranty
- Advanced Bluetooth technology
Cons:
- Basic screen
- Free app is glitchy
- Large footprint
Best Under-Desk Budget Elliptical: Cubii JR2+
Cubii
Key Features:
- Price: $249.00
- Dimensions: 24.4 inches x 17.7 inches x 9.1 inches
- Flywheel weight: N/A
- Product weight: 19.18 pounds
- User weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Warranty: One-year manufacturer warranty, two-year warranty if registered within 90 days of purchase
If you have a job that requires a lot of seated desk work or simply are looking for a convenient way to sneak in some more cardio, the Cubii JR2+ Under-Desk Elliptical is a great choice. This compact and ergonomically designed machine weighs just over 19 pounds and comes with a carrying handle making it easy to transport from place to place.
This under-desk elliptical has eight levels of adjustable resistance which may not be super challenging but is enough to get the blood flowing while multitasking during any seated activity. The Cubii JR2+ comes with a small digital LCD monitor which displays calories burned, stride count, mileage and duration.
Because this machine comes with Bluetooth connectivity, you can also track this information on the Cubii app or on other popular fitness platforms including Apple, Fitbit and HealthKit. While it is not the immersive training experience you can get on some full-sized machines, you can be part of the Cubii Communitii and connect with other striders via Studio+ classes.
Pros:
- Portable
- Easy-to-use
- Associated fitness community
- Variable resistance
Cons:
- Not challenging for more experienced athletes
- Some reports of clicking sound
Best Rower-Elliptical Combo: Teeter Power 10
Teeter
Key Features:
- Price: $849
- Dimensions: 62.5 inches x 37.5 inches x 43.25 inches
- Flywheel weight: 22.7 pounds
- Product weight: 180 pounds
- User weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Warranty: One-year warranty
Yes, you read that right: a rower-elliptical combo. We included this model because it is a great option for those in smaller spaces or anyone looking for a low impact but super unique and effective workout. The Teeter Power 10 is really a one-of-a-kind machine and works by combining the traditional rowing machine concept while adding in a bi-directional motion with an elliptical-like movement pattern. The Power 10 patented elliptical path is driven by an inertia-enhanced 22.7 pound flywheel.
Unlike traditional rowers and more like ellipticals, the ability to both push and pull the handles on the Power 10 targets a variety of upper body muscle groups. The handles not only move forward and back but also have several different grip options to target different muscles. Both the handles and the seat are adjustable but serve different purposes. The handles’ adjustment is more functional in nature and controls the depth of the stroke or stroke distance with three different position options. The seat adjusts to accommodate users of different heights.
To control the seven levels of magnetic resistance, you turn a dial located on the right handle. Combined with the 22.7-pound flywheel, this makes for a fairly challenging workout for all but more elite athletes. The Teeter Power 10 comes with a small digital monitor that displays time, distance, speed, calories, heart rate and strokes. It is Bluetooth-enabled and comes with a heart rate chest strap for more accurate monitoring. You can also transfer all your workout data to hundreds of popular fitness apps such as Garmin and Strava.
This elliptical-rower comes with its own app, the Teeter Move app, which has trainer-led workouts. There is also a handy device holder so you can secure your phone while streaming a training session. For less than $900, the Power 10 offers a lot of value for those on a budget.
Pros:
- Compact
- Low impact
- Recruits different upper body muscles
- Bi-direction
- Can be stored upright
- Bluetooth enabled
- Syncs with popular fitness apps
Cons:
- May not be challenging enough for some
- Warranty
Why Buy a Budget Elliptical?
Elliptical trainers are a fantastic addition to any home gym, providing a low-impact way to improve your heart health and increase cardio and muscular endurance. A budget elliptical offers the same health benefits as more costly models, but may come with fewer techy upgrades.
How to Use an Elliptical Machine
Not every elliptical works exactly the same but most are fairly straightforward. You simply step on the machine and start moving the pedals, which turn in an oval-shaped pattern that’s similar to walking. You want to keep proper form—stand upright with your head straight ahead in a neutral position and lightly hold the handles.
Depending on the machine, you may be able to increase or decrease resistance and incline. This targets different muscle groups and allows for a more varied workout experience. If your elliptical comes with pre-programmed workouts or interactive training, you can adjust the resistance and incline to match the workout.
The Benefits of a Budget Elliptical
Studies have shown that elliptical trainer workouts offer similar fitness results to running, while putting minimal stress on your joints. This is because with each pedal stroke, your body rises and falls without losing contact with the pedals. As such, there is little to no impact.
An elliptical can help you increase muscular endurance while training both upper and lower body muscle groups such as the glutes and hamstrings. Using an elliptical also gets your heart rate up, just as you do when running. There is even some research indicating that elliptical training promotes improved balance and mobility in adults recovering from serious injuries such as a stroke.
On a more practical level, a budget elliptical not only brings you these benefits but does so at a lower cost than other similar machines.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Budget Elliptical for You
Flywheel weight
The flywheel is what, in part, drives an elliptical. It is a rotating wheel located inside your machine (either the front or back). Heavier flywheels are generally associated with a smoother ride and provide greater resistance options. Typically the heavier the flywheel, the more expensive the machine. That said, you will find several budget ellipticals on our list with some impressive flywheel weights.
Size and weight
The first step in your elliptical search should be measuring the floor space you have to house this new piece of fitness equipment, and making sure the ones you are considering fit within that space. While some ellipticals do come with transport wheels, many have heavy-duty frames that can weigh quite a bit. Because of the cumbersome shape of ellipticals, one that weighs more will be tough to move around. Be sure to keep all these factors into account when evaluating ellipticals.
Technology
If technology and programming is your jam, you want to prioritize these features in your search. Technology can range from super basic with minimal pre-programmed workouts to highly interactive training experiences with live workouts and thousands of on-demand options. It really depends both on what tech features are most important to you and your budget.
User weight capacity
Heavier athletes will want a higher weight capacity to reduce any shaking or instability of the machine. Be sure to consider the weights of all people in your household that will be using the machine.
Warranty
Some manufacturers offer generous warranties which gives consumers a peace of mind knowing their purchase is backed up. While it is not a steadfast rule, usually better warranties are indicative of a higher-quality and more durable machine. Shorter warranties sometimes raise a red flag. You want a piece of equipment that the manufacturer really stands behind.
Price
This should go without saying but you need to know how much you can afford before you start considering an elliptical. You can find a quality elliptical to meet most budgets. Figure out what your bottom line is and narrow down your search from there.
How We Chose the Best Budget Ellipticals
Our team considered several factors when looking for the best budget ellipticals including price, features and technology, warranty, customer reviews and functionality.
Budget Elliptical FAQs
Is a budget home elliptical worth it?
Budget home ellipticals are well worth it if they meet your specific needs, space constraints and budget. They offer a versatile and joint-friendly workout for those looking to expand their home gym with a cardio machine.
How much should I pay for a budget elliptical?
How much you should pay for a budget elliptical is highly dependent on what you can afford. You can find great treadmills for less than $1,000 but you may have to sacrifice some higher-end features (programming and tech).
Does a budget elliptical still have nice technology features?
The short answer is yes, budget ellipticals still can have nice technology features. But the longer answer is that not every budget elliptical offers tech features. Some are very basic and engineered with limited, if any, techy specs. On the other hand, you can find affordable ellipticals fully stocked with some noteworthy technology such as Bluetooth connectivity, integrated speakers, touchscreen monitors and connected training platforms.
Final Thoughts
Elliptical trainers are a great addition to any home gym. They are low-impact and yield solid benefits like improved overall cardio fitness and strength. Their design inherently recruits both upper and lower body muscles providing a full body workout. Budget ellipticals have made their place in the world of fitness equipment enabling more and more people to add one to their home gym.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
