Elliptical machines have undergone significant advancements in their specifications and technological integration, offering users an increasingly sophisticated and effective approach to cardiovascular fitness. Their ergonomic design is engineered to maximize workout quality and intensity by engaging both upper and lower body musculature simultaneously. This comprehensive engagement translates into a full-body workout experience, enhancing cardio fitness while crucially preserving the structural integrity of the user’s joints. This dual benefit positions the elliptical as a highly advantageous piece of home fitness equipment. For individuals seeking to upgrade their home cardio setup in 2025, navigating the market for the ideal elliptical machine can be a daunting task. This guide aims to simplify that process by presenting top-tier selections and a detailed breakdown of factors to consider before making a purchase.
Our Picks for the Best Ellipticals of 2025
The landscape of home fitness equipment is continuously evolving, with elliptical trainers at the forefront of innovation, offering a blend of advanced technology and user-centric design. This year’s top picks reflect a diverse range of needs, from comprehensive full-body training to space-saving solutions and specialized comfort features.
Best Overall Elliptical: NordicTrack FS10i
The NordicTrack FS10i distinguishes itself as a versatile, multi-functional cardio machine, ingeniously combining the capabilities of a treadmill, an elliptical, and a stair stepper into a single unit. This innovative design offers users the flexibility to dynamically alter their cardiovascular routines without the need for multiple pieces of equipment. A key feature of the FS10i is its 32-inch adjustable stride, which intelligently adapts to the user’s leg movements. For instance, when utilized as a stair stepper, leg motion is primarily vertical, whereas in elliptical mode, the stride follows a more traditional forward and backward elliptical path, showcasing the machine’s adaptability.
Integrated within the FS10i is a 10-inch HD touchscreen display that provides access to iFIT classes, a subscription-based interactive training platform ($39/month). This platform not only offers a vast library of trainer-led workouts but also tracks essential fitness metrics such as elapsed time, speed, distance covered, and calories burned. For further workout customization, trainers can digitally control the machine’s incline, adjusting it up to 10 percent, and can select from 24 resistance levels. Manual users can easily replicate these adjustments through convenient one-touch buttons located adjacent to the touchscreen. This level of interactive control and physical adaptability makes the FS10i a standout choice for those seeking a comprehensive and engaging cardio experience.
Pros:
- 3-in-1 functionality (treadmill, elliptical, stair stepper)
- 32-inch adjustable stride length for personalized workouts
- 10-inch HD touchscreen with iFIT integration
- Digital incline and 24 resistance levels
- Full-body engagement
Cons:
- iFIT subscription required for full interactive features
- Larger footprint compared to basic ellipticals
Best Elliptical for Weight Loss: Sole Fitness E95
For individuals committed to a weight-loss journey, the Sole Fitness E95 emerges as a powerful ally. The synergy of a well-structured diet and consistent exercise is paramount to achieving weight management goals, and the E95 is designed to facilitate the latter. While any elliptical can contribute to a calorie deficit, the E95 distinguishes itself through its complimentary fitness app and integrated streaming services, providing crucial motivation during workouts. The Sole+ companion app, which is free with the purchase of the E95, offers access to over 3,000 trainer-led workouts and classes, usable both on and off the elliptical.
Beyond its digital offerings, the E95 enhances the user experience with features designed for comfort and sustained effort. Its cushioned foot pedals are engineered to minimize stress on the knees and ankles during extended workout sessions. The pedals also offer gait adjustment, defaulting to a subtle two-degree inward angle for a more natural feel. With 20 levels of resistance, users can progressively challenge themselves, with adjustments easily managed via buttons on the handlebars. Sole’s drive system is renowned for its quiet operation, allowing users to immerse themselves in their chosen workout or music via the built-in speakers, simply by connecting a smart device to the integrated tablet holder.
Pros:
- Free Sole+ fitness app with extensive workout library
- Integrated streaming services (Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu)
- Cushioned, adjustable foot pedals for joint comfort
- 20 resistance levels for progressive training
- Quiet drive system
Cons:
- Subscription to streaming services may be required separately
- Stride length is fixed at 20 inches, which may not suit all users
Best Elliptical for Joint Pain: Sole Fitness E35
The Sole Fitness E35 is an exemplary choice for individuals prioritizing joint comfort and seeking a smooth, reliable cardio workout. This elliptical is lauded for its ease of setup and operation, making it an accessible option for those looking to establish a consistent home fitness routine without the need for a gym membership. The E35 features a ramp-like design that allows users to step on and begin their workout with minimal effort, ensuring a full-body engagement without exacerbating existing joint or back pain.
The machine offers 20 distinct resistance levels, enabling users to tailor their workouts to their specific fitness levels and objectives. It also comes equipped with 10 preloaded workout programs and provides free access to the Sole+ fitness app, offering immediate training options even for beginners. While not as robust as some higher-end models, the E35 reliably supports users up to 300 pounds. Additional features that enhance the user experience include built-in fans to maintain comfort during exercise and a user-friendly, adjustable console that ensures an ergonomic and personalized workout posture.
Pros:
- Smooth, low-impact motion ideal for joint pain
- Easy to set up and operate
- 20 resistance levels and 10 pre-programmed workouts
- Free access to Sole+ fitness app
- Built-in cooling fans and adjustable console
Cons:
- Fixed stride length of 20 inches
- May lack advanced interactive features found on premium models
Best Elliptical Machine for Small Spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer M6
For fitness enthusiasts with limited living or workout space, the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 presents an elegant solution. This machine masterfully blends form and function, boasting a compact footprint of just 46 inches long, 26 inches wide, and 64.2 inches high, significantly smaller than many traditional treadmills or cardio machines. While its 15-inch stride length might be less ideal for taller individuals, it capably supports users weighing up to 300 pounds.
The M6 is engineered to deliver a potent workout experience, featuring 16 levels of resistance. It includes a convenient USB charging port, a water bottle holder, and Bluetooth heart rate compatibility, with pulse contact grips integrated into the multi-grip moving handles for immediate heart rate monitoring. A distinctive feature is its burn rate display, which provides real-time feedback on calories burned per minute, allowing users to set and track activity level targets throughout their session.
The JRNY digital fitness platform, offered with the M6, provides tailored workouts, on-demand classes, and personalized programming. Users receive a complimentary JRNY membership with their purchase, enabling them to connect their device to the magnetic media holder and access a wealth of guided training content. Bowflex offers an optional in-home assembly service, which is recommended due to the complexity and time commitment of self-assembly, reportedly taking several hours. The warranty, however, is a point of consideration, with only two years coverage on the frame and parts, contrasting with the longer frame warranties offered by many competitors.
Pros:
- Compact design ideal for small spaces
- 16 resistance levels
- JRNY digital fitness platform included
- Burn rate display for calorie tracking
- Integrated entertainment and convenience features
Cons:
- 15-inch stride length may not suit taller users
- Limited warranty (2 years on frame and parts)
- Assembly can be time-consuming
Best Under Desk Elliptical: Cubii Go
The Cubii Go redefines the concept of an under-desk elliptical, offering a portable and accessible way to incorporate movement into sedentary activities. This compact elliptical is designed to fit seamlessly beneath a desk, allowing users to pedal while working, attending meetings, or enjoying entertainment. Its portability is further enhanced by built-in wheels and a retractable handle, making it easy to transport.
Unlike under-desk treadmills that require standing, the Cubii Go facilitates a seated workout. Its large flywheel enables users to select from up to ten resistance levels, while an illuminated display projects workout statistics. The accompanying Cubii app allows for detailed tracking of workout data. The machine’s design prioritizes convenience and ease of use. Customer reviews on the Cubii website often highlight its effectiveness and ease of operation, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 200 reviews. While some negative feedback has mentioned stability concerns, the overwhelming sentiment points to its utility and user-friendliness.
Pros:
- Extremely compact and portable design
- Enables seated workouts under a desk
- Up to 10 resistance levels
- Integrated workout tracking via Cubii app
- Easy to transport
Cons:
- Limited resistance range compared to full-size ellipticals
- Some users have reported stability issues
- Stride motion is limited due to its compact nature
Most Comfortable Elliptical: Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11
For newcomers to elliptical training or those seeking a particularly comfortable and user-friendly experience, the Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11 stands out. Constructed with steel and featuring large pedals, it supports users up to 400 pounds and is designed to accommodate individuals ranging from 4’9" to 6’4" in height. While the 15.5-inch stride length may feel somewhat limited for taller users, the overall design prioritizes accessibility. A significant advantage is its 90 percent pre-assembly, streamlining the setup process for users who may not be mechanically inclined.
The CT11 is equipped with a magnetic drive system designed for exceptionally quiet operation, keeping noise levels below 20 decibels, comparable to rustling leaves. This feature is ideal for those who value a serene workout environment. The elliptical offers 16 resistance levels, suitable for a range of intensities, from light cardio to more demanding leg and glute exercises. It is also compatible with Kinomap, a fitness app that allows for digital tracking of speed, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. On Amazon, the Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11 garners an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, with numerous positive reviews praising its performance, though some criticisms point to noise levels and suitability for very tall individuals.
Pros:
- High weight capacity (400 lbs)
- 90% pre-assembled for easy setup
- Ultra-quiet magnetic drive system (<20 decibels)
- 16 resistance levels
- Kinematic compatibility for workout tracking
Cons:
- 15.5-inch stride length might be restrictive for taller users
- Some users have reported noise issues, despite the quiet design
- May lack the advanced connectivity of premium models
Who Should Buy an Elliptical?
Elliptical machines are an excellent choice for individuals seeking a low-impact, total-body cardiovascular workout at any intensity level. As noted by Samantha April, P.T., D.P.T., U.S.A.-W., "You’re using both your arms and your legs to propel yourself, and you can adjust the resistance based on what works for you." They are particularly beneficial for individuals who may have balance issues or are looking for a more controlled workout experience compared to a treadmill, where feet are required to move more dynamically. April further explains, "Someone may use an elliptical over a treadmill if they’re looking for something that’s a little more controlled and they want to move with the machine and keep their feet stationary versus a treadmill where they’re required to move."
However, ellipticals are not universally ideal for all home gym setups. April cautions, "If space is a concern inside of your home gym, ellipticals take up a pretty fair amount of space, so it’s important that you’ll actually have the space to accommodate that." This suggests that potential buyers, especially those in smaller living spaces, must carefully consider the machine’s footprint.
How to Use an Elliptical
Elliptical trainers offer a versatile platform for a wide range of workouts, from gentle, steady-state cardio to high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Getting Started
Before commencing any workout, it is essential to perform a warm-up, including deep breaths and dynamic stretching. Once prepared, place your feet on the pedals and grip the handlebars. Initiate a smooth, walking-like motion with your feet, gradually increasing the pace as you feel comfortable.
Basic Workouts
While users are encouraged to set their own pace, a foundational elliptical workout typically ranges from 15 to 20 minutes. As endurance and comfort levels improve, users can progressively increase their speed, resistance, and incline (if the machine offers variable incline settings).
Interval Workouts
Matt Petrillo, C.S.C.S., director of adult fitness at The Annex Sports Performance, advocates for low-intensity interval training (LIIT) on ellipticals. This method involves alternating between periods of high effort and recovery. Petrillo advises selecting a work interval of 30 to 90 seconds, paired with a rest interval of 30 to 60 seconds, ensuring the work period is longer than the rest.
Work Intervals
During the work interval, the objective is to elevate your heart rate as close to 120 beats per minute as possible at the start of each round. By the conclusion of the work period, the target heart rate should be between 150 to 160 beats per minute. For those without a heart rate monitor, Petrillo suggests an alternative: "Simply go at the fastest sustainable pace you can while only breathing through your nose during your work periods."
Rest Intervals
The aim during the rest interval is to reduce your heart rate back down to approximately 120 beats per minute. This recovery period allows the body to prepare for the next bout of exertion.
Depending on individual fitness levels and available time, users can complete 15 to 30 rounds of these work/rest cycles. Petrillo notes, "This type of workout helps build our aerobic system, which can greatly improve our cardiovascular and overall health."
How We Chose the Best Ellipticals
The selection process for the best elliptical machines involved a comprehensive evaluation of numerous models. Key factors considered included:
- User reviews and ratings: Analyzing feedback from a broad spectrum of users to gauge real-world performance and satisfaction.
- Brand reputation and reliability: Prioritizing manufacturers with a proven track record for quality and durability in the fitness equipment market.
- Feature set and technological integration: Assessing the availability and effectiveness of features such as interactive displays, app compatibility, and advanced workout programs.
- Build quality and materials: Evaluating the robustness of construction and the quality of materials used to ensure longevity and stability.
- Ergonomics and comfort: Examining design elements that contribute to a comfortable and safe workout experience, including pedal design, stride length, and adjustability.
- Price and value: Balancing the cost of the machine against its features, performance, and overall value proposition.
- Specific use-case suitability: Identifying machines that excel in particular areas, such as compact design, joint support, or advanced training capabilities.
What to Look For When Choosing an Elliptical Machine
Flywheel
The flywheel, a heavy rotating component within the machine, is integral to providing stability and momentum during pedaling. A heavier flywheel generally results in a smoother, more fluid ride, though it often comes with a higher price tag. The weight of the flywheel can significantly impact the overall feel and quality of the workout.
Resistance
A diverse range of resistance levels is crucial for enabling workout intensity variation and facilitating progressive training. Unlike treadmills where speed is a primary variable, ellipticals operate on a fixed track. Therefore, increasing resistance is key to challenging the user and promoting adaptation. An elliptical with sufficient resistance options ensures that users can continue to push their limits as their fitness improves.
Incline
While not a mandatory feature, adjustable incline on an elliptical adds a valuable layer of workout variability. By altering the ramp’s angle, users can engage different muscle groups and modify workout intensity without solely relying on speed or resistance adjustments. An increased incline demands greater exertion from the user to maintain momentum, thereby elevating heart rate and enhancing cardiovascular demand, akin to walking uphill versus on flat terrain.
Stride Length
Stride length, defined by the distance the pedals travel apart during operation, is a critical factor for user comfort and natural movement. A stride that is too short can feel restrictive, especially for individuals with longer legs, while an overly long stride may feel awkward for those with shorter legs. There isn’t a universally "best" stride length; it is highly personalized and depends on the user’s leg length and overall height. Most ellipticals offer a standard 20-inch stride length, which is suitable for the majority of users.
Size
For individuals residing in smaller apartments or equipping compact home gym spaces, selecting a compact elliptical that occupies minimal floor area is paramount. It is advisable to measure the intended workout space before beginning the search to ensure the chosen machine will fit comfortably.
Tech and Features
For consumers who prioritize advanced technology and convenience, identifying an elliptical that aligns with specific feature requirements is essential. Creating a checklist of desired technological specifications and features before commencing the search can significantly streamline the selection process and help narrow down options. This includes considerations like touchscreen size and responsiveness, connectivity options (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi), pre-programmed workouts, and compatibility with fitness apps or streaming services.
Cost
Establishing a clear budget is a fundamental step in acquiring any piece of home exercise equipment. Ellipticals are available across a wide spectrum of price points, ranging from a few hundred dollars for basic models to several thousand for premium, feature-rich machines. Understanding one’s financial parameters will guide the search toward viable options.
Final Thoughts
Elliptical cross-trainers represent a highly effective method for enhancing cardiovascular fitness and building muscular strength. The coordinated engagement of both the pedals and handlebars facilitates a comprehensive full-body workout, contributing to improved overall physical conditioning and endurance.
FAQs
Should I get an elliptical or a treadmill?
The choice between an elliptical and a treadmill depends on individual fitness goals, current fitness levels, and any existing injuries or conditions affecting joints or muscles. An elliptical provides a full-body workout, engaging the upper body alongside the legs, and is generally lower impact, making it suitable for those with joint pain. Treadmills are better suited for those focused on building endurance and leg strength, particularly runners and walkers. Ellipticals may have a steeper learning curve due to their more complex movement patterns. Additionally, treadmills can be more expensive and potentially noisier than ellipticals, which are important considerations for home use.
Can you lose belly fat with an elliptical?
While targeted fat reduction in specific areas like the belly is not possible, using an elliptical machine as part of a calorie-controlled diet can contribute to overall fat loss. By helping to create a calorie deficit, consistent elliptical workouts can lead to a reduction in body fat throughout the body, including the abdominal region.
Which elliptical is best for weight loss?
The most effective elliptical for weight loss is the one that is used consistently. Factors that promote regular use include features that keep users motivated and engaged, such as interactive programs, entertainment options, and personalized feedback. However, it is crucial to remember that proper nutrition is equally, if not more, important than exercise for achieving weight loss.
Is the elliptical a full-body workout?
Yes, an elliptical workout engages both the upper and lower body. It targets the glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, arms, and core muscles, providing a comprehensive cardiovascular and strength-building exercise.
Is using an elliptical better than walking?
Both walking and using an elliptical are beneficial cardiovascular exercises. Ellipticals often allow users to burn more calories due to varied intensity, resistance, and built-in workout options. Furthermore, ellipticals are generally easier on the joints than walking, especially on hard surfaces or treadmills, offering a lower-impact alternative.
How long does it take to see results while using an elliptical?
The timeline for seeing results from elliptical training, or any exercise regimen, is highly variable and depends on individual goals, workout intensity, frequency, consistency, and overall lifestyle factors such as diet. Consistent effort and adherence to a structured program are key to achieving noticeable improvements.