Elliptical machines have undergone a significant evolution in recent years, marked by substantial advancements in their specifications and integrated technology. These machines are meticulously engineered with ergonomic designs that optimize both the quality and intensity of a workout, engaging both upper and lower body musculature simultaneously. This holistic approach provides a comprehensive, full-body workout designed to enhance cardiovascular fitness while crucially preserving the structural integrity of users’ joints. In essence, this offers a dual benefit that is widely considered a significant advantage for home fitness enthusiasts. As 2025 unfolds, individuals seeking the optimal elliptical machine for their home gym will find this guide to be an invaluable resource, presenting top-tier selections and a detailed breakdown of critical factors to consider before making a purchase.
Our Picks for the Best Ellipticals of 2025
The landscape of home fitness equipment continues to expand, with elliptical machines emerging as a popular choice for those prioritizing low-impact cardiovascular exercise. The following selections represent a curated list of machines that excel in various categories, catering to diverse user needs and preferences.
Best Overall Elliptical: NordicTrack FS10i
The NordicTrack FS10i distinguishes itself from conventional ellipticals by ingeniously merging the functionalities of a treadmill, an elliptical, and a stair stepper into a single, versatile unit. This innovative design empowers users with the flexibility to dynamically alter their cardio routines. A key feature is its 32-inch adjustable stride, which intelligently adapts to the user’s leg movements. For instance, when employed as a stair stepper, the leg motion shifts to a vertical trajectory, while in elliptical mode, the stride transitions to a more traditional forward and backward motion.
This machine offers an immersive workout experience through its 10-inch HD touchscreen, which serves as the gateway to iFIT classes (requiring a $39 monthly subscription). The display diligently tracks vital workout metrics, including elapsed time, distance covered, speed, and calories expended. For guided workouts, trainers can remotely adjust the machine’s incline up to 10 percent and select from 24 resistance levels. For those who prefer manual control, intuitive one-touch buttons are conveniently located adjacent to the touchscreen, allowing for immediate adjustments to incline and resistance.
Best Elliptical for Weight Loss: Sole Fitness E95
For individuals committed to a fitness journey that includes weight loss, the Sole Fitness E95 stands out as a particularly effective tool. While any elliptical can contribute to calorie expenditure, the E95 elevates the experience with its complimentary fitness app, Sole+, and integrated streaming services, providing ample motivation for consistent workouts. Sole+ offers an extensive library of over 3,000 trainer-led workouts and classes, accessible both on and off the elliptical. Furthermore, the E95 enhances workout entertainment by integrating with popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu.
Comfort is a paramount consideration for extended workout sessions, and the E95 addresses this with its cushioned foot pedals, designed to minimize stress on the knees and ankles. The pedals are also adjustable to accommodate individual gaits, defaulting to a comfortable two-degree inward angle. With 20 distinct resistance levels, users can progressively challenge themselves, with adjustments easily made via buttons integrated into the handlebars. Sole’s drive system is engineered for quiet operation, ensuring that workout audio or music played through the built-in speakers, accessible via a smart device docked in the integrated tablet holder, remains clear and uninterrupted.
Best Elliptical for Joint Pain: Sole Fitness E35
The Sole Fitness E35 is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a dependable and user-friendly elliptical that prioritizes joint comfort through a remarkably smooth ride. Its straightforward setup and operation make it an accessible option for home workouts, eliminating the need for a gym membership.
The E35 features a ramp-like design that facilitates easy mounting and immediate initiation of movement. This elliptical provides a comprehensive full-body workout without imposing undue strain on the back or joints. It offers 20 levels of resistance, allowing users to tailor their workouts to their specific fitness levels and objectives. In addition to 10 pre-programmed workouts, the E35 grants free access to the Sole+ fitness app, enabling beginners to commence their training program with guidance. Despite not being the heaviest-duty model, the E35 reliably supports users weighing up to 300 pounds. Additional user-friendly features include integrated fans to maintain comfort during workouts and a fully adjustable console for an optimized user experience.
Best Elliptical Machine for Small Spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer M6
For those with limited living space, the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 presents an attractive solution for integrating an elliptical workout into their home. This machine masterfully blends form and function, boasting a compact footprint of just 46 inches in length, 26 inches in width, and 64.2 inches in height, significantly smaller than many traditional treadmills or other cardio machines. While its 15-inch stride length might be less ideal for taller individuals, it comfortably supports users up to 300 pounds.
The M6 offers a robust workout experience with 16 resistance levels, a convenient USB charging port, a water bottle holder, and Bluetooth heart rate compatibility. Its multi-grip moving handles incorporate pulse contact grips for real-time heart rate monitoring. A distinctive burn rate display tracks calories burned per minute, allowing users to set activity level targets throughout their session. For those who thrive on interactive programming, the JRNY digital fitness platform, included with the M6 purchase, offers tailored workouts, on-demand classes, real-time coaching, and personalized programming. Users can download the workout app, place their device in the magnetic media holder, and begin their elliptical journey. Bowflex offers an in-home assembly service for an additional fee, which is recommended as assembly can be time-consuming, according to user reviews. The warranty, however, is a point of consideration, with only two years offered on the frame and parts, which is less extensive than the typical 10-year frame warranty found on many competitors.
Best Under Desk Elliptical: Cubii Go
The Cubii Go represents a highly portable and space-efficient elliptical solution. This compact machine is designed to fit discreetly beneath a desk, allowing for exercise during work or leisure activities. 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 allows users to remain seated while pedaling, making it ideal for use during meetings or while watching television. Its substantial flywheel enables users to select from up to ten resistance levels, and an illuminated display projects workout statistics for easy monitoring. The accompanying Cubii app facilitates detailed tracking of workout data. The built-in wheels and double telescoping handle contribute to its user-friendly portability. Currently, the Cubii Go holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on the Cubii website, based on 238 reviews. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, some criticisms have been noted regarding the machine’s stability and design. However, four-star reviews consistently praise its effectiveness and ease of use.
Most Comfortable Elliptical: Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11
For individuals new to elliptical training, the Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11 offers a comfortable and approachable entry point. Constructed with robust steel and featuring large pedals, this elliptical trainer can support users weighing up to 400 pounds. It is designed to accommodate individuals ranging in height from 4’9" to 6’4". While its 15.5-inch stride length may feel somewhat limited for taller users, it generally provides a comfortable experience. A significant advantage for those less mechanically inclined is that the CT11 arrives 90 percent pre-assembled. The machine’s magnetic drive system is engineered for quiet operation, producing less than 20 decibels of noise—comparable to the sound of rustling leaves, ensuring a peaceful workout environment.
This elliptical trainer offers 16 levels of resistance, suitable for a wide spectrum of workouts, from light cardio to more intense leg and glute exercises. It is also compatible with Kinomap and digitally records performance metrics such as speed, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. The Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11 has garnered an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with nearly 3,000 reviews. While most feedback highlights its performance, some users have noted concerns about noise levels and its suitability for taller individuals.
Who Should Buy an Elliptical?
Elliptical machines are an exceptional choice for individuals seeking a low-impact, comprehensive cardiovascular workout that can be adjusted 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. 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, elliptical machines may not be the optimal choice for those with 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."
How to Use an Elliptical
Elliptical trainers offer a versatile platform for a range of workouts, from gentle, low-intensity sessions to high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Getting Started
Before commencing any workout, it is crucial to perform a warm-up, which should include deep breathing exercises and stretching. Once prepared, place your feet on the pedals and grasp the handlebars. Initiate movement by simulating a walking motion with your feet.
Basic Workouts
While users are encouraged to set their own pace, a standard baseline for elliptical workouts is typically 15 to 20 minutes. As endurance and comfort levels increase, users can gradually increase their speed, resistance, and incline (if the machine features variable incline settings).
Interval Workouts
Matt Petrillo, C.S.C.S., director of adult fitness at The Annex Sports Performance, offers insights into optimizing elliptical workouts through low-intensity interval training (LIIT). Petrillo suggests choosing 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 as close to 120 beats per minute as possible at the outset of each round. By the conclusion of the work period, the target heart rate should be between 150 and 160 beats per minute.
Rest Intervals
Petrillo states, "During your rest period, the goal is to drop your heart rate to as close to 120 beats per minute as possible." For individuals without a heart rate monitor, Petrillo provides an alternative guideline: "Simply go at the fastest sustainable pace you can while only breathing through your nose during your work periods."
Depending on individual fitness levels and available time, this work/rest cycle can be repeated for 15 to 30 rounds. Petrillo emphasizes the cardiovascular benefits, noting, "This type of workout helps build our aerobic system, which can greatly improve our cardiovascular and overall health."
How We Chose the Best Ellipticals
To assist consumers in selecting the most suitable elliptical machine for their specific needs and fitness objectives, a comprehensive evaluation of dozens of models was conducted. The selection process considered a range of critical factors, including but not limited to:
- User Reviews and Expert Opinions: Analyzing feedback from a diverse pool of users and consulting with fitness professionals provided insights into real-world performance and user satisfaction.
- Feature Set and Functionality: Machines were assessed based on their range of resistance levels, incline capabilities, stride length adjustability, and integrated technology.
- Durability and Build Quality: The construction materials and overall sturdiness of each machine were evaluated to ensure longevity and safety.
- Value for Money: The balance between features, performance, and price was a key consideration in identifying machines that offer excellent value.
- Specific Use Cases: Machines were categorized based on their suitability for particular needs, such as small spaces, joint pain relief, or weight loss.
What to Look For When Choosing an Elliptical Machine
Flywheel
The flywheel, a heavy rotating component within the machine, is instrumental in providing stability and momentum during pedaling. A heavier flywheel generally contributes to a smoother and more consistent ride, though it may also increase the overall cost of the machine.
Resistance
A varied range of resistance levels is crucial for enabling workout intensity adjustments and facilitating progressive training. Ellipticals operate on a fixed track, meaning that increasing speed has limitations. Therefore, a machine with ample resistance options is essential for challenging workouts as fitness levels improve.
Incline
Incline capabilities on an elliptical are often considered a valuable enhancement rather than an essential feature. They introduce an element of variability to training by allowing users to engage different muscle groups and alter workout intensity without necessarily changing speed or resistance. As the incline increases, a greater output is required from the user to maintain speed, consequently elevating heart rate, akin to the effort involved in ascending a hill compared to walking on flat terrain.
Stride Length
Stride length, defined as the distance the pedals travel apart during operation, significantly influences the comfort and natural feel of the user’s stride. A shorter stride length can feel restrictive for individuals with longer legs or those who naturally take longer strides. Conversely, an excessively long stride length may feel awkward and cumbersome for individuals with shorter legs. There is no universally ideal stride length, as it is highly dependent on an individual’s leg length and overall height. Most ellipticals feature a 20-inch stride length, which is suitable for the majority of users.
Size
For individuals residing in compact living spaces or assembling a small home gym, selecting a compact elliptical that occupies minimal floor space is paramount. It is advisable to measure the intended workout area before beginning the search for an elliptical machine.
Tech and Features
For those who value technology and prioritize programming with advanced features and conveniences, it is essential to identify an elliptical that meets all desired specifications. Creating a checklist of must-have technological features and functionalities prior to the search can significantly streamline the selection process and help narrow down options.
Cost
Establishing a budget is a fundamental step when purchasing any home exercise equipment. Ellipticals are available across a wide spectrum of price points, ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, reflecting the varying levels of features, durability, and brand reputation.
Final Thoughts
Elliptical cross-trainers offer an effective means of enhancing cardiovascular fitness and building strength. The integrated action of the pedals and handlebars facilitates a comprehensive full-body workout, engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously.
FAQs
Should I get an elliptical or a treadmill?
Both treadmills and elliptical trainers are excellent tools for aerobic exercise. The choice between them largely depends on individual fitness goals, current fitness levels, and the presence of any pre-existing injuries or conditions affecting joints or muscles. Consider the following:
- Full-Body Workout: A full-size elliptical provides a comprehensive workout, engaging the arms and shoulders in addition to the legs, calves, and glutes.
- Low-Impact Nature: Ellipticals are inherently low-impact as the feet remain in contact with the pedals, unlike the repetitive impact of feet on a treadmill’s running deck. This makes them a preferable option for individuals experiencing joint pain or lower-body injuries.
- Endurance and Leg Strength: If the primary focus is on building endurance and leg strength, a treadmill is generally the more suitable choice for runners and walkers.
- Learning Curve: Elliptical machines may present a slightly steeper learning curve due to their more complex movement patterns compared to the straightforward motion of running or walking.
- Other Factors: Additional considerations include cost, as treadmills tend to be more expensive than ellipticals. Furthermore, high-quality elliptical trainers typically operate more quietly than treadmills, which can be a significant factor for home workouts.
Can you lose belly fat with an elliptical?
While direct targeting of fat loss in specific areas, such as the belly, is not possible, exercising on an elliptical machine, when combined with a calorie-controlled diet, can contribute to an overall calorie deficit. This deficit is crucial for achieving all-over fat loss.
Which elliptical is best for weight loss?
Consistency and adherence to a workout regimen are paramount for successful weight loss. The most effective elliptical for weight loss is the one that an individual will use regularly. Features that enhance motivation and focus are important. However, it is crucial to remember that proper nutrition plays an equally vital role alongside a consistent workout schedule.
Is the elliptical a full-body workout?
Yes, the elliptical provides a full-body workout by engaging both the upper and lower body, targeting the glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, arms, and core musculature.
Is using an elliptical better than walking?
Both walking and using an elliptical are effective forms of cardiovascular exercise. Typically, ellipticals allow for greater calorie expenditure due to their varied intensities, resistance options, and pre-set workout programs. Additionally, ellipticals are gentler on the joints compared to walking, offering a beneficial alternative to the impact of walking on pavement or a treadmill.
How long does it take to see results while using an elliptical?
The timeframe for observing results from any form of exercise is contingent upon individual goals and the level of effort invested in workouts.