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The 11 Best Ellipticals for Low-Impact Workouts at Home, Researched and Tested

Our top picks are fairly priced, effective, and space-efficient

A person uses the Schwinn 470 Elliptical.

Verywell Fit / Deanna McCormack

If you’re looking for an effective low-impact cardio workout, consider an elliptical. Unlike other forms of cardio—like running, jumping, and HIIT—which can make you more prone to injury, ellipticals tend to put less stress on your lower ligaments.

Ellipticals can vary greatly in price. A basic machine that gets the job done can start around $150. If you want all the bells and whistles, it may cost a few thousand dollars. Some factors to consider when purchasing home gym equipment are your lifestyle, budget, space, and fitness goals.

To find the best ellipticals on the market, we first interviewed two personal trainers to get their expert insight on what features to look for in a quality elliptical. We researched dozens of ellipticals and evaluated them for resistance levels, price, size, and comfort. We also tested a few options on our list following our home testing guidelines, including a total of 28 under desk bikes and ellipticals, to find our top recommendations.

To test our mid-range elliptical pick, we tried it at home over a four-week period, using it for workouts multiple times per week. We assessed it for setup, design, performance, app compatibility, and price. To test our under desk ellipticals, we used them under our desks at home or in the office over a two-week period, pedaling once a day for a minimum of 20 minutes. The two under-desk ellipticals we included in our list of top recommendations received some of the highest scores for ease of setup, performance, features, portability, and value.

Best Overall

Bowflex Max Trainer M6

Bowflex Max Trainer M6

Dick's Sporting Goods

Pros
  • 16 resistance levels

  • Connectivity for up to 2 users

  • USB charging port

Cons
  • Some workouts are too advanced for beginners

  • Noisy when in use

We chose the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 as our top pick because it's a compact elliptical that blends the smooth strides of an elliptical with the strength-building steps of a stair climber, giving you a dynamic challenge every time you work out. The elliptical’s cushioned handles are easy to grip and its wide pedals offer a smooth, comfortable stride.

The elliptical is on the noisier side when in use, but we love that you can take advantage of the machine’s 16 resistance levels as you increase the intensity of your workouts over time. Its large console also makes it easy to track your progress, and its media rack and USB port are great for multitasking.

In addition to the built-in features, we love that it comes with two months of complimentary access to the Bowflex JRNY app. You'll get trainer-led workout videos, virtual coaching, and adaptive workouts that get harder as you get stronger. One thing to note is that we found some of the workouts too challenging for beginners, so this functionality may be better suited to more advanced exercisers.

Key Specs:
Weight Capacity:
300 lbs | Dimensions: 46" L x 26" W x 64.2" H | Stats Offered: Heart Rate Monitor, Burn Rate | Assembly: Optional Assembly Service

Best Budget

Plasma Fit Elliptical Machine

Plasma Fit Elliptical Machine

Amazon

Pros
  • 2-in-1 machine

  • Adjustable resistance levels

  • Front rollaway wheels for easy transport

Cons
  • Seat is on the harder side

  • Not suitable for larger users

Part elliptical and part exercise bike, the Plasma Fit Elliptical Machine is a solid two-in-one trainer. It’s available at a much lower price point than many classic ellipticals. If you want to use the machine as a standard elliptical, simply climb onto its wide pedals, grip its cushioned handlebars, and start striding.

If you want to convert it into an exercise bike, adjust the machine’s seat and start cycling. You’ll use the same pedals for both. The only downside to note when using the machine as a bike is that the seat is on the harder side. If this is a problem for you, you might consider adding a bike seat cushion for a more comfortable ride.

Change the intensity of your workout by turning the tension knob on the frame. An LCD display screen tracks your speed, time, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. Since this machine has a lower weight capacity compared to others on our list, we wouldn't recommend it to larger users.

Key Specs:
Weight Capacity:
220 lbs | Dimensions: 35.5" D x 21.5" W x 58.25" H | Stats Offered: Speed, Time, Distance, Calories Burned, Heart Rate | Assembly: Some Assembly Required

Best Mid-Range

Schwinn 430 Compact Elliptical Machine

Schwinn 430 Compact Elliptical Machine

Amazon

Pros
  • 22 preset workout programs

  • 2 LCD screen displays for metric tracking

  • Smooth and quiet

Cons
  • Heavier than other options

  • Challenging to assemble

Schwinn, a brand best known for bikes—including indoor cycling bikes—offers the Fitness 430 Elliptical Machine, a classic elliptical that offers both quality and value. The machine is straightforward, easy to use, and sure to deliver a solid workout every time. The elliptical is equipped with 22 preset workout programs and 20 resistance levels, including beginner and advanced options. (It also boasts a “quick start” mode if you prefer a no-fuss option.)

You’ll definitely want to assemble this machine with two people since the process is complicated and time-consuming. The elliptical is also heavier compared to other options on our list, which means it's better suited for stationary use in a home gym.

You can use the machine’s unique Goal Track feature to set goals and track your progress over time. No matter which settings you choose, the Schwinn 430 promises a smooth, quiet ride—and its wide, cushioned pedals help keep your strides comfortable.

When testing, we found this to be a very high-quality, high-functioning workout machine that would be a great addition to any home gym with the space.

Key Specs:
Weight Capacity:
300 lbs | Dimensions: 70.1" L x 28.2" W x 63.2" H | Stats Offered: Heart Rate, Time, Distance, Calories | Assembly: Optional Assembly Service

Pros
  • 3-in-1 machine

  • 32" auto-adjustable stride

  • Adjustable incline and decline

Cons
  • Not for small spaces

  • Heavier than other options

  • Monthly subscription cost for iFIT technology

NordicTrack's FS14i FreeStride Trainer is a high-tech elliptical that will automatically adapt to your stride and habits, giving you a personalized fitness experience. You can also use the machine's ample range of motion, including a 32-inch stride to make your workouts more versatile. By sliding your feet forward and back, you can convert the elliptical into a treadmill. Press your feet up and down to use the machine as a stair stepper.

Many ellipticals boast several resistance levels, but this one offers a whopping 26 levels of resistance. It also gives you the option of a 10% incline or a 10% decline—a rare feature that will let you make your workouts even more dynamic. The 14-inch Smart HD Touchscreen allows for interactive, personalized training. All of these features come with a large footprint, though, making this machine heavier compared to other options and not as small-space friendly.

The FS14i comes with a complimentary 1-month iFIT Family Membership, which you can use to access thousands of on-demand workouts. You can also activate iFIT’s automatic trainer control feature which allows your incline and resistance level settings to be adjusted for you as you work out. Although the FS14i works in manual mode, you'll need an iFIT subscription to get the most out of your machine. For instance, the heart rate monitor only works using iFIT. After the first month, membership will automatically renew at the current rates.

With world-class trainers, unmatched variety, and 3-in-1 functionality, this machine will help you beat workout boredom and stay motivated.

Key Specs:
Weight Capacity:
375 lbs | Dimensions: 58.5" L x 29.5" W x 74" H | Stats Offered: Time, Speed, Distance, Resistance, Incline, Decline, Calories | Assembly: Self-Assembly

Best Under-Desk

Cubii Pro Seated Under Desk Elliptical Machine

Cubii Pro Seated Under Desk Elliptical Machine

 Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Setup
    5/5
  • Performance
    5/5
  • Features
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Easy to assemble

  • Smooth and quiet

  • Adjustable resistance levels

Cons
  • Needs to be charged before use

  • Heavier than other under-desk options

If you're looking for a great under-desk elliptical, we recommend this option from Cubii. Unlike many other under-desk cardio machine options, this one won't slide around when in use. It comes with chair wheel coasters so you won't roll away when using the machine if you have a standard office chair.

This under desk elliptical was the smoothest and quietest option of the 28 we tested. It's great for people who want to peddle during work calls, as it doesn't make a peep. It offers six resistance levels, which can be easily adjusted with the turn of a dial. You can also easily sync the machine with the accompanying app on your phone to track your progress. Plus, the app gives you access to tons of workout classes for every level and time commitment.

We love that the machine is super quick to assemble—it took us only five minutes to put together when we received it at the beginning of our testing period. The only downside is that it needs to be charged before initial use, which took us about four to six hours.

We like that the machine is super steady and we don't feel like our upper body shifts around too much when we use it during work video calls. The pedal platforms are wide enough to accommodate most foot shapes and sizes. These features do make it heavier compared to other under-desk options, but we like that the included carry handle still makes it fairly portable.

Key Specs:
Weight Capacity:
250 lbs | Dimensions: 20.5" L x 13" W x 9" H inches | Stats Offered: Strides Per Minute, Total Strides, Time, Calories, Distance | Assembly: Self-Assembly

Best Under-Desk, Runner-Up

Stamina InMotion E1000 Compact Strider

Stamina InMotion E1000 Compact Strider

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Ease of Setup
    4.5/5
  • Performance
    4/5
  • Features
    4/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Compact, lightweight, and portable

  • Supports both forward and reverse stride

  • Supported by a free, smart audio coaching app

Cons
  • Wheels may begin to squeak over time

  • Short stride length may not suit taller users

The Stamina InMotion E1000 is a compact option that you can fit just about anywhere—under your desk or table, in front of the couch, and more. The lightweight, portable machine was designed with multitasking in mind, similar to a treadmill desk and an under desk bike. It promises a relatively quiet, unobtrusive workout, letting you log a little exercise while you work or watch TV.

When we first received this option for our test, it was fairly easy to set up—it took us about five minutes, and we only had to attach the base and wheels to set it up. We like the spacious pedals and the fact that the display allows you to track stride count, time, calories, distance, and strides per minute.

We like that the intensity can be easily adjusted using the built-in tension dial to scale your resistance up or down. And, unlike other ellipticals that require you to pay for a separate app with workout programs, this under-desk option comes with a free smart audio coaching app for custom workouts and tracking your progress.

Though the manufacturer states that this under-desk option can be used both seated and standing, we would not recommend it for upright use. When trying to pedal standing up, it felt unstable and uncomfortable, and we had to hold on to something in order to move the pedals. However, it offered a comfortable, quiet, and smooth ride when seated.

Key Specs:
Weight Capacity:
250 lbs | Dimensions: 24.5" L x 17" W x 11.38" H | Stats Offered: Strides Per Minute, Total Strides, Time, Calories, Distance | Assembly: Self-Assembly

Best Recumbent

Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Elliptical

Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Elliptical

Walmart

Pros
  • Zero-impact, full body exercise

  • 2 transport wheels

  • Large seat cushion

Cons
  • May be difficult to mount and dismount for users with limited mobility

  • Not for advanced users

  • Console is dimly lit

The Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer is an elliptical and recumbent exercise bike hybrid. The machine combines the seated, reclining style of a recumbent bike with the arm and leg motion of an elliptical, making it a new breed of exercise machine—a recumbent elliptical.

Every time you use your Teeter FreeStep LT1 Recumbent Cross Trainer, you’ll be seated. The adjustable seat has three recline settings and multiple height settings for a customized fit and feel. You’ll stride the same way you would on a standard elliptical, and you’ll also use the moving handlebars to engage your upper body. This makes the recumbent elliptical more dynamic than a standard recumbent bike, but lower-impact than a classic elliptical—an excellent option for people who want a workout that’s challenging, but still comfortable.

Key Specs:
Weight Capacity:
300 lbs | Dimensions: 54” L x 38” W x 52.5” H | Stats Offered: Time, Distance, Speed, Calories | Assembly: Optional Assembly Service

Best for Small Spaces

EFITMENT Magnetic Elliptical Machine

EFITMENT Magnetic Elliptical Machine

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Setup
    4.5/5
  • Fluid Motion
    4.7/5
  • Performance
    4.5/5
  • Adjustability
    4.5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Compact with wheels

  • 8 resistance levels

  • Quiet

Cons
  • Lower maximum weight capacity

  • May not suit taller users

The Efitment E005 Compact Elliptical Trainer is an incredibly space-saving machine—making it a great option for those with limited room. It is relatively lightweight at 63 pounds, and comes equipped with transport wheels for portability and storage. It also comes reinforced with leg stabilizers that keep it from rocking and swaying as you work out.

Though compact, the machine is still sturdy enough to support you through your elliptical workout. Its wide pedals promise a smooth, comfortable ride. Its adjustable tension knob lets you access eight different resistance modes, and its built-in digital monitor makes it easy to track your progress. The stride length is fixed at 11 inches and may not accommodate taller users.

Key Specs:
Weight Capacity:
220 lbs | Dimensions: 34.5" L x 24.5" W x 61" H | Stats Offered: Time, Speed, Distance, Calories, Pulse | Assembly: Self-Assembly

Best Foldable

Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk Trainer

Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk Trainer

Amazon

Pros
  • Lightweight and foldable

  • Zero-impact, full body exercise

  • Budget friendly

Cons
  • No adjustable resistance

  • Lower maximum weight capacity

  • Not for advanced users

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Air Walk Trainer may not look like other ellipticals due to the unique glider design. The pedals hover in mid-air rather than resting on a bulky base. The result is a machine that’s particularly low-profile. The glider pedals also mean that it takes more effort to balance, thus engaging your core; to help with this, include a balance board in your workout.

The 30 inch stride length offers the benefits of stretching, running, cross-country skiing, and an aerobic workout without jarring movements that often lead to injury. Glide your way to better health by tracking your progress on the built-in LCD monitor. When not in use, the machine folds up, taking up less space, similar to the manufacturer's space-saving upright row machine, which is one of the best rowing machines on the market.

Key Specs:
Weight Capacity:
220 lbs | Dimensions: 25" L X 19" W X 57" H | Stats Offered: Time, Count, Total Count, Calories | Assembly: Self-Assembly, Tools Included

Best for Outdoors

ElliptiGO Outdoor Stand-Up Bike

ElliptiGO Outdoor Stand-Up Bike

Amazon

Pros
  • Lightweight, but durable

  • 3 resistance levels

  • Adjustable stride length

Cons
  • Not suitable for rugged or hilly terrain

  • Lower maximum weight capacity

The ElliptiGO 3C is the entry-level model in the ElliptiGO line-up of outdoor elliptical bikes. With three gears, it is best suited for flat, paved roads and gentle hills with a 5% climbing grade or less. You’ll burn more calories in less time with the smooth running-like motion that’s easier on your hips, knees, and ankles.

The ElliptiCO 3C ships almost fully assembled and you won’t need any tools to complete the job. Both the steering column and stride length are adjustable so you can enjoy a comfortable and fun workout. Customize your bike with optional accessories such as the Fluid 365 Stationary Trainer and you can bring your workout back indoors.

At only 42 pounds, this bike is lightweight, yet sturdy. The ElliptiGO is highly rated by customers of all ages. Especially those who are getting back into exercising after an injury. 

Key Specs:
Weight Capacity:
250 lbs | Dimensions: 75" L x 50-58" H | Stats Offered: None | Assembly: Almost Fully Assembled, No Tools Required

Best High Weight Capacity

Niceday Elliptical Trainer

Niceday Elliptical Trainer

Amazon

Pros
  • Heavy-duty frame for increased stability

  • Suitable for a range of weights and heights

  • 16 resistance levels

Cons
  • Fixed 15.5" stride

  • Inconsistent fitness tracking

The Niceday elliptical is a reasonably-priced, mid-size machine that safely accommodates users up to 400 pounds. The frame is made with extra thick commercial grade steel for added stability and load capacity. The adjustable tension control knob ranges from levels 1 through 16 of resistance. You can gradually increase the intensity of your workout using the "10 percent rule" to prevent injury.

The Niceday machine comes partially assembled and has transport wheels for easy portability.

Key Specs:
Weight Capacity:
400 lbs | Dimensions: 48" D x 25" W x 62" H | Stats Offered: Time, Speed, Distance, Calories, Pulse | Assembly: Partially-Assembled, Tools Included

How We Selected and Tested the Best Ellipticals

To find the best ellipticals, we researched dozens of machines from top fitness equipment retailers and brands, opting for best-sellers and options with stellar customer feedback. We also reached out to experts—Adrien Deffes, CPT and Nicole Thompson, an ACE certified personal trainer—for recommendations and advice on what to look for when selecting an elliptical.

To narrow down our options, we evaluated ellipticals based on their features, ease of assembly and use, adjustability, sturdiness, comfort, and value. Based on how each elliptical held up to these criteria, we determined which ellipticals were best suited for different needs.

We also tested some of our top picks at home. We tested our mid-range elliptical at home over a one-month period, using it multiple times a week. When testing the elliptical, we paid special attention to ease of setup, the quality of the machine's design, its performance, its compatibility with apps and our devices, and its overall value, comparing its price to its overall quality.

We also tested 28 under desk bikes and ellipticals at home over a two-week period to find our best under-desk elliptical recommendations. We used each under-desk cardio machine for 20 minutes every day while working or watching TV. We assessed each under-desk machine for setup process, performance, features, and value. We continue to test elliptical machines at home and will update this list of recommendations as we gather more firsthand insights.

Person using Cubii Pro Seated Under Desk Elliptical Machine

Verywell Fit / Jessica Murtaugh

What to Look for in an Elliptical

Resistance Levels

Most elliptical machines are equipped with adjustable resistance levels—the ability to increase or decrease the tension of your stride. Typically higher-end ellipticals offer a wider range of resistance levels which allows you to engage in endurance, high-intensity, or more advanced training exercises.

Workout Modes

Many ellipticals offer a range of workout modes in addition to their resistance levels. These may include hill climbs, fitness tests, and other training programs. Use these preset options or switch to manual mode to control your own workout.

“I would suggest buying one that allows you to change the angle and degrees of the glide,” says Adrien Deffes, CPT. With the ability to make manual adjustments, people can engage in a variety of exercises even if their machine doesn’t come with multiple workout modes included.

Use

“In my opinion, an elliptical is one of most user-friendly machines anyone can own,” says Deffes. He notes that they can be great exercise equipment for seniors and beginners, in addition to seasoned athletes or people who engage in regular workouts. 

Though most ellipticals tend to be similar, there are some that are unique—like foldable ellipticals, under-desk ellipticals, outdoor ellipticals, and ellipticals that convert to other fitness machines. Consider your fitness goals, space, and how often you'll use the machine before selecting an elliptical—there’s likely an option that meets your precise needs.

Schwinn 470 Elliptical

Verywell Fit / Deanna McCormack

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What muscles does the elliptical work?

    When used properly, the elliptical targets the major muscle groups of the leg, including the glutes, hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves. “If the moveable handles on the machine are also used, muscles of the upper body are also worked, including biceps, triceps, pectoralis, and latissimus dorsi,” says Nicole Thompson, an ACE certified personal trainer. The elliptical is a great way to get the muscles moving after sitting all day, or standing at a standing desk while working.

  • Which is better: an elliptical or a treadmill?

    Both the elliptical and treadmill have benefits. Whether you pick a treadmill or an elliptical at the gym may depend on a few factors, such as your fitness level, goals, and injury history.

    If you’re prone to injuries or you’re recovering from one, or you have bad knees and need running shoes for bad knees, you may want to choose the elliptical since it’s lower-impact than the treadmill. “The elliptical machine requires both a leg and an upper-body movement, which could make it a better workout for your upper body compared to running,” says Thompson.

    However, you’ll most likely burn more calories and get a more intense workout on the treadmill, so it may be a better option for those trying to lose weight or training for a race.

  • How many calories does an elliptical workout burn?

    The number of calories burned during an elliptical workout depends on your weight as well as the intensity and duration of your workout. As an estimate, using a moderate effort, a 200-pound person burns about 470 calories per hour on an elliptical, and a 140-pound person burns about 325 calories per hour. Most elliptical machines have a calorie counter on the console, but the number is usually a rough estimate.

  • Is the elliptical good for cardio?

    Yes, using an elliptical properly and regularly can help improve your cardio capacity and stamina. “Since the elliptical uses large muscle groups that require increased blood flow and oxygen, using an elliptical for 20 or more consecutive minutes can be considered an effective cardio workout for some individuals,” says Thompson.

Why Trust Verywell Fit 

As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.

3 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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  2. Bosch AN, Flanagan KC, Eken MM, Withers A, Burger J, Lamberts RP. Physiological and metabolic responses to exercise on treadmill, elliptical trainer, and stepper: practical implications for trainingInternational Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism. 2021;31(2):135-142.

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