Elliptical machines have undergone significant advancements in their specifications and technology, offering users a sophisticated and effective means of achieving cardiovascular fitness. Their ergonomic design is engineered to maximize workout quality and intensity by engaging both upper and lower body muscles simultaneously. This holistic approach delivers a comprehensive full-body workout, thereby enhancing cardiovascular health while crucially preserving the structural integrity of the joints. For fitness enthusiasts seeking a low-impact yet highly effective cardio solution, the modern elliptical represents a compelling investment. As we look ahead to 2025, the market offers a diverse range of ellipticals, each catering to specific user needs and preferences. This guide aims to demystify the selection process, presenting top picks and essential considerations for prospective buyers.
Our Picks for the Best Ellipticals of 2025
The landscape of home fitness equipment is continually evolving, with elliptical trainers at the forefront of innovation. For 2025, several models stand out for their advanced features, user-centric design, and overall performance.
Best Overall Elliptical: NordicTrack FS10i
The NordicTrack FS10i distinguishes itself by seamlessly integrating the functionalities of a treadmill, elliptical, and stair stepper into a single, versatile machine. This multi-functional design empowers users to diversify their cardio routines, preventing workout monotony and engaging a wider range of muscle groups. A key feature is its 32-inch adjustable stride, which dynamically adapts to the user’s leg movements. For instance, when used as a stair stepper, the leg motion is primarily vertical, whereas in elliptical mode, the stride shifts to a more traditional forward and backward motion.
The FS10i boasts a 10-inch HD touchscreen that provides access to iFIT classes, a subscription-based interactive training platform. These classes offer guided workouts led by professional trainers and track essential metrics such as workout duration, speed, distance covered, and calories burned. For an enhanced training experience, trainers can digitally adjust the incline up to 10 percent and control the 24 resistance levels. For those who prefer manual control, intuitive one-touch buttons located adjacent to the touchscreen allow for immediate adjustments to incline and resistance. The iFIT subscription, priced at approximately $39 per month, unlocks a vast library of on-demand and live studio classes, global workouts, and personalized training programs, making it a comprehensive digital fitness solution.
Best Elliptical for Weight Loss: Sole Fitness E95
For individuals prioritizing weight loss, consistent exercise coupled with a strategic diet is paramount. The Sole Fitness E95 is engineered to support these goals by offering an engaging and motivating workout experience. Its companion app, Sole+, is provided free with the purchase of the machine and offers access to over 3,000 trainer-led workouts and classes, applicable both on and off the elliptical. This extensive library provides ample variety and guidance to keep users motivated.
A standout feature of the E95 is its integration with popular streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu. This allows users to enjoy their favorite entertainment while exercising, transforming workouts into more enjoyable and less daunting sessions. The E95 is designed with user comfort in mind, featuring cushioned foot pedals that are contoured to minimize stress on the knees and ankles during prolonged workouts. The pedals are also adjustable to accommodate individual gaits, with a standard two-degree inward angle that promotes a more natural foot positioning.
The machine offers 20 resistance levels, allowing users to progressively challenge themselves as their fitness improves. These levels can be easily adjusted via controls integrated into the handlebars. Sole’s drive system is engineered for quiet operation, ensuring a peaceful workout environment. For users who wish to listen to music or follow along with workout audio, a built-in tablet holder provides a convenient place to prop up a smart device, which can be connected to the machine’s integrated speakers. The E95’s design prioritizes a smooth and stable ride, contributing to its effectiveness as a tool for calorie expenditure and weight management.
Best Elliptical for Joint Pain: Sole Fitness E35
The Sole Fitness E35 is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a low-impact exercise option, particularly those managing joint pain or recovering from injuries. Its design emphasizes a smooth and comfortable ride, making it accessible for a wide range of users. The E35 is noted for its ease of setup and intuitive operation, requiring no prior gym experience to begin a beneficial workout session at home.
The elliptical features a ramp-like design that allows users to easily step on and begin their workout without excessive strain. This design contributes to a full-body engagement without putting undue stress on the back or joints. With 20 levels of resistance, users can tailor the intensity of their workouts to match their current fitness level and evolving goals. The machine comes preloaded with 10 workout programs, and its free access to the Sole+ fitness app further enhances its utility, providing beginners with immediate training options and structured guidance. The E35 supports users up to 300 pounds, offering a robust and reliable platform for home fitness.
Additional comfort features include built-in fans to help regulate body temperature during workouts and a user-friendly, fully adjustable console that ensures an ergonomic and comfortable experience. The combination of a smooth stride, adjustable resistance, and supportive design makes the E35 a strong contender for those prioritizing joint health while seeking an effective cardiovascular workout.
Best Elliptical Machine for Small Spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer M6
For individuals with limited living or workout space, the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 offers a compact yet powerful cardio solution. Its footprint is significantly smaller than that of many traditional treadmills or other large cardio machines, measuring approximately 46 inches long, 26 inches wide, and 64.2 inches high. While its 15-inch stride length may be less ideal for very tall individuals, it comfortably supports users weighing up to 300 pounds.
The M6 provides a challenging workout experience with 16 levels of resistance. It is equipped with practical amenities such as a USB charging port, a water bottle holder, and Bluetooth heart rate compatibility. The multi-grip moving handlebars include pulse contact grips for real-time heart rate monitoring. A distinctive feature is its burn rate display, which shows calories burned per minute and allows users to set activity level targets throughout their session.
The M6 integrates with the JRNY digital fitness platform, offering tailored workouts, on-demand classes, real-time coaching, and personalized programming. A complimentary JRNY membership is included with the purchase of the M6, allowing users to download the workout app and stream it directly to their device, which can be conveniently placed in the machine’s magnetic media holder. While Bowflex offers in-home assembly for an additional fee, reviewers suggest it takes several hours, making professional assembly a recommended option. The warranty, however, is a point of consideration, offering only two years on the frame and parts, which is shorter than many competitors who provide longer frame warranties. Careful assembly is therefore crucial for longevity.
Best Under-Desk Elliptical: Cubii Go
The Cubii Go redefines the concept of an elliptical by offering a compact, portable, and accessible solution for incorporating movement into daily routines, particularly for those who spend significant time seated. This under-desk elliptical is designed to fit discreetly beneath a desk, allowing users to pedal while working, attending meetings, or engaging in other sedentary activities. Its portability is further enhanced by built-in wheels and a retractable handle, making it easy to transport.
Unlike traditional ellipticals that require standing, the Cubii Go allows users to remain seated, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking to increase their physical activity without disrupting their workflow or leisure. It features a large flywheel that offers up to ten resistance levels, enabling users to adjust the intensity of their pedaling. An illuminated display projects workout statistics, and the companion Cubii app allows for detailed tracking of workout data.
The Cubii Go has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on the Cubii website. While most users praise its effectiveness and ease of use, some feedback has noted minor criticisms regarding stability and design. However, these are generally outweighed by the convenience and functionality it offers.
Most Comfortable Elliptical: Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11
For first-time elliptical buyers or those seeking a particularly comfortable and user-friendly experience, the Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11 presents a compelling option. Equipped with large pedals and constructed from durable steel, it can support users weighing up to 400 pounds. The design accommodates users ranging from 4’9” to 6’4” in height, although the 15.5-inch stride length might feel somewhat restricted for individuals at the taller end of this range.
A significant advantage for less mechanically inclined users is that the CT11 comes 90 percent pre-assembled, simplifying the setup process considerably. The machine utilizes a magnetic drive system engineered for exceptionally quiet operation, with noise levels kept below 20 decibels, comparable to the sound of rustling leaves. This feature is ideal for those who value a serene workout environment.
The Niceday CT11 offers 16 levels of resistance, suitable for a wide spectrum of workouts, from light aerobic sessions to more intensive leg and glute exercises. It is compatible with the Kinomap app and digitally records key performance metrics such as speed, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. On Amazon, the CT11 holds an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, based on nearly 3,000 reviews. While many users commend its performance, some feedback has pointed out potential noise issues and suitability for taller individuals, aligning with the previously mentioned stride length consideration.
Who Should Buy an Elliptical?
Elliptical machines are an excellent choice for individuals seeking a low-impact, full-body cardiovascular workout that can be tailored to 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." This makes them particularly beneficial for those with balance concerns, as they offer a more stable and controlled movement compared to treadmills. 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 may not be the ideal choice for those with extremely limited home gym space. 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." For individuals with ample space, an elliptical offers a comprehensive and joint-friendly cardio solution.
How to Use an Elliptical
Mastering the elliptical is straightforward, allowing for a range of workout intensities from gentle strolls to high-intensity interval training.
Getting Started
Begin any workout session with a proper warm-up, including deep breaths and dynamic stretching. Once ready, place your feet securely on the pedals and grasp the moving handlebars. Initiate a smooth, walking-like motion with your feet, gradually increasing the pace as you feel comfortable.
Basic Workouts
While personal pacing is encouraged, a standard baseline for elliptical workouts is 15-20 minutes. As your endurance and fitness improve, you can progressively increase your speed, resistance, and incline (if your machine features adjustable incline).
Interval Workouts
Matt Petrillo, C.S.C.S., director of adult fitness at The Annex Sports Performance, offers insights into optimizing elliptical workouts through High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). He suggests selecting work intervals ranging from 30 to 90 seconds, paired with rest intervals of 30 to 60 seconds, ensuring that the work period is consistently longer than the rest period.
Work Intervals
During the work interval, the objective is to elevate your heart rate to approximately 120 beats per minute at the start of each round, aiming to reach between 150 and 160 beats per minute by the end of the interval. For those without a heart rate monitor, Petrillo advises maintaining the fastest sustainable pace possible while breathing solely through your nose during these high-intensity periods.
Rest Intervals
The goal during the rest interval is to lower your heart rate back down to approximately 120 beats per minute. Depending on individual fitness levels and available time, users can repeat this work/rest cycle for 15 to 30 rounds. Petrillo emphasizes that this training methodology is highly effective for enhancing the aerobic system, which significantly contributes to improved cardiovascular and overall health.
How We Chose the Best Ellipticals
Our selection of the top elliptical machines for 2025 was based on a rigorous evaluation of dozens of models. We considered numerous factors, including:
- Performance and Durability: Assessing the build quality, stability, and long-term reliability of each machine.
- User Experience: Evaluating the ease of use, comfort of the stride, and intuitiveness of the controls.
- Feature Set: Examining the range of resistance levels, incline options, pre-programmed workouts, and technological integrations.
- Value for Money: Balancing the cost of the machine against its features and overall quality.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Incorporating feedback from industry experts and consumer reviews to gauge real-world performance and satisfaction.
What to Look For When Choosing an Elliptical Machine
Selecting the right elliptical involves understanding key components and features that contribute to an effective and enjoyable workout.
Flywheel
The flywheel is a critical component that provides momentum and stability to the elliptical’s motion. A heavier flywheel generally results in a smoother and more consistent pedaling experience. While heavier flywheels often come with a higher price tag, they contribute significantly to the overall quality of the workout.
Resistance
A broad range of resistance levels is essential for workout variability and progression. Ellipticals operate on a fixed track, meaning speed adjustments are limited. Therefore, resistance becomes the primary means of increasing workout intensity. Ensuring the machine offers sufficient resistance options is vital for challenging yourself as your fitness improves.
Incline
While not always a mandatory feature, adjustable incline on an elliptical can add a valuable layer of training variability. By altering the slope of the pedals, users can target different muscle groups and increase workout intensity without necessarily changing speed or resistance. A steeper incline requires more effort to maintain momentum, leading to an elevated heart rate, similar to walking uphill.
Stride Length
Stride length, the distance between the pedals as they move, significantly impacts the comfort and natural feel of the workout. A short stride can feel restrictive for individuals with longer legs, while a long stride might feel awkward for shorter users. The ideal stride length is highly personal, dependent on your leg length and overall height. Most ellipticals feature a 20-inch stride length, which is suitable for the majority of users.
Size
For those with limited space, especially in smaller apartments or compact home gyms, choosing a compact elliptical is crucial. It’s advisable to measure the intended workout area before beginning your search to ensure the machine will fit comfortably and allow for adequate clearance.
Tech and Features
For users who appreciate advanced technology and convenience, identifying an elliptical with desired features is important. This can include high-definition touchscreens, integrated entertainment systems, connectivity to fitness apps, heart rate monitoring capabilities, and pre-programmed workouts. Creating a list of must-have technological specifications can streamline the selection process.
Cost
Establishing a budget is a fundamental step in purchasing any home exercise equipment. Ellipticals are available across a wide spectrum of price points, from a few hundred dollars for basic models to several thousand for high-end, feature-rich machines.
Final Thoughts
Elliptical cross-trainers offer a superb method for enhancing cardiovascular fitness and building overall strength. The synchronized action of the pedals and handlebars provides a comprehensive full-body workout, engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously. The low-impact nature of elliptical training makes it an accessible and joint-friendly option for a broad demographic of fitness enthusiasts.
FAQs
Should I get an elliptical or a treadmill?
Choosing between an elliptical and a treadmill depends on individual fitness goals, current fitness level, and any existing joint or muscle conditions. Ellipticals provide a full-body workout, are lower impact, and may be preferable for those with joint pain. Treadmills are better suited for building endurance and leg strength, particularly for runners and walkers. Ellipticals can be less noisy and may have a steeper learning curve due to their more complex movement patterns.
Can you lose belly fat with an elliptical?
While it’s impossible to target fat loss in specific body areas, consistent exercise on an elliptical, combined with a balanced diet, can contribute to overall fat reduction and help maintain a calorie deficit, which is essential for weight loss.
Which elliptical is best for weight loss?
The most effective elliptical for weight loss is the one you use consistently. Factors like user motivation, engaging features, and a supportive training environment are crucial. However, consistent workouts must be paired with proper nutrition for optimal weight loss results.
Is the elliptical a full-body workout?
Yes, the elliptical engages both the upper and lower body, targeting the glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, arms, and core muscles.
Is using an elliptical better than walking?
Both are effective cardio workouts. Ellipticals often allow for higher calorie expenditure due to varied intensities, resistance options, and programmed workouts. They are also gentler on the joints compared to the impact of walking on hard surfaces.
How long does it take to see results while using an elliptical?
The timeframe for seeing results varies based on individual goals, workout intensity, frequency, and overall lifestyle factors such as diet and sleep. Consistent effort is key to achieving noticeable improvements.
