April 2024
Elliptical Trainers: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of elliptical trainers rankings posted by key online experts, as of April 2024.
Summary
On 4 Apr 2024, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 78 elliptical trainer endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
47 elliptical trainers were endorsed in total, only 16 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 4 Apr 2024, Schwinn 470 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed elliptical trainer with 5 expert endorsements. 2 experts out of 5 recommended it as the '#1 elliptical trainer' this month.
Brand breakdown
-
NordicTrack: 5 elliptical trainers
(#1 is NordicTrack FS14i)
-
Bowflex: 5 elliptical trainers
(#1 is Bowflex Max Trainer M6)
-
Proform: 4 elliptical trainers
(#1 is ProForm Carbon HIIT H7)
-
Sunny Health & Fitness: 3 elliptical trainers
(#1 is Sunny Health SF-E905)
-
Sole Fitness: 3 elliptical trainers
(#1 is Sole Fitness E25)
Price breakdown
At a glance - April Ranking
Rank | Change | Price | Elliptical Trainer |
CNET
|
Chicago Tribune
|
Forbes
|
Byrdie
|
NBC News
|
Woman's World
|
TopTenReviews
|
money.com
|
T3
|
Treadmill Review Guru
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1
|
- | $1099 |
Schwinn 470
|
2
|
1
|
-
|
1
|
6
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
- | Check price |
Sunny Health SF-E905
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
2
|
3
|
1
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
- | $2687 |
NordicTrack FS14i
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
1
|
4
|
- | $1500 |
Sole Fitness E35
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
7
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
5
|
- | $1100 |
Sole Fitness E25
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
1
|
7
|
-
|
6
|
- | Check price |
Bowflex Max Trainer M6
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
7
|
- | Check price |
Bowflex Max Trainer M9
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
8
|
- | $2739 |
NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
9
|
- | Check price |
Nautilus E618
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
- | Check price |
Cubii JR1
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
11
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
+1 | $312 |
Sunny Fitness SF-E3912
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
12
|
-1 | Check price |
ProForm Carbon HIIT H7
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
15
|
- | $2354 |
ProForm Pro HIIT H14
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
16
|
- | $107 |
Stamina InMotion E1000
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
17
|
- | Check price |
Bowflex Max Total 16
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
18
|
- | $704 |
Horizon Fitness EX 59
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
We ranked Schwinn 470 #1 in April 2024 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Schwinn 470 as #1.
CNET
Most comfortable elliptical
Comfortable and intuitive to use
Ideal for people of all heights and weights
|
Lacks modern touch screen
No Wi-Fi connection
Not good for small spaces
|
Chicago Tribune
Best of the Best
Has 25 different levels of resistance. The LCD screen shows you each workout and how high the resistance will get during the program. Has a time, distance, and calorie tracker. Designed to simulate natural strides. The handlebars can be adjusted.
|
The Bluetooth doesn't allow to sync music.
|
Byrdie
Best Overall
Syncs with multiple apps
Acoustic speakers
USB charging port
Ergonomic design
|
Repair support could be improved
|
TopTenReviews
A smooth and quiet-running cross trainer from a trusted brand
29-item program menu
Smooth striding
User-friendly LCD
|
Short labor warranty
|
We ranked Sunny Health SF-E905 #2 in April 2024 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sunny Health SF-E905 as #1.
Forbes
Best Budget Elliptical Machine For Home
Includes safety features like anti-slip pedals
Lightweight and easy to move
Makes little to no noise when in use
|
Compact stride length
Very light on performance features; not recommended for cardio pro’s
|
Woman's World
Best Elliptical Under $200
8 levels of magnetic resistance
Compact
Digital display measures time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse
|
money.com
Best for Low Prices
Built-in wheels for easy transportation and storage.
|
Doesn’t have a reversible stride.
|
Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend elliptical trainers.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of elliptical trainers, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for April 2024 ranking
We ranked NordicTrack FS14i #3 in April 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked NordicTrack FS14i as #1.
Byrdie
Best Splurge:
Smart HD touchscreen
Bluetooth connectivity
On-demand workouts
|
Requires monthly membership
|
T3
Best elliptical trainer overall
Full-body workout that’s easy on the joints
Auto-adjusting stride is fun/easy to engage
Built-in fan and at-your-fingertips incline/resistance controls
|
Monthly iFit membership required (30-day trial included)
Tricky to move once assembled
|
Treadmill Review Guru
Best Elliptical Overall
The 3 in 1 functionality lets you use this machine multiple different ways.
It declines to -10% and inclines to 10% to add even more challenge to your workouts.
In addition to getting your heart rate up, it also provides a low impact exercise that is forgiving on your joints.
The 14” touch screen is excellent for viewing iFit classes and it’s easy to use.
The fan is surprisingly effective and comes with multiple air output settings.
The magnetic resistance is quiet no matter what level you’re using.
The flywheel is centered which promotes an upright posture and gives extra back support.
|
It is a compact machine, but it requires more space in front and behind for the pedals when it’s in use.
iFit has a monthly subscription cost after the first 30 days.
|
We ranked Sole Fitness E35 #4 in April 2024 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sole Fitness E35 as #1.
Forbes
Best Elliptical Machine For Sensitive Joints
Reduces ankle and knee stress
Extra low-impact workout; great for seniors
|
Bare-bones display
Pricier option than others on this list
|
Byrdie
Best for Comfort
Foot pedals encourage natural running motion
Power incline
Quiet operation
|
Assembly could be easier
|
T3
Best elliptical trainer for adjustability
Sleek, compact, and quiet
Designed to be easy on the joints
Compatible with the STUDIO app, which offers 50+ elliptical-targeted classes
|
No built-in video screen
|
We ranked Sole Fitness E25 #5 in April 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sole Fitness E25 as #1.
TopTenReviews
A gym-level cross trainer without the premium price tag
Industry-leading warranty
Oversized foot pedals for a comfy workout
Wireless heart rate monitoring
|
Stride length isn’t adjustable
|
money.com
Editor's Pick
Warranty lasts lifetime on frame and 3 years for parts.
|
Limited preset workout programs compared to other models.
|
T3
Best elliptical trainer for durability
Lifetime guarantee
Gym-like spec
|
Requires a decent amount of space
|
We ranked Bowflex Max Trainer M6 #6 in April 2024 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Chicago Tribune
Feature-Packed
Has 16 different levels of resistance, offering a harder workout for those who want it.
This machine is equipped with a variety of exercise programs to help you progress your strength over time.
Comes equipped with a phone charger and Bluetooth heart monitor capabilities.
|
Some users noticed that it can be a bit loud on higher resistance settings.
|
Woman's World
Best Elliptical Worth Splurging On
Includes free 2-month trial of the BowFlex JRNY™ App
Magnetic media rack for tablet or smartphone
Bluetooth heart rate compatible
16 levels of resistance
|
Treadmill Review Guru
Best Compact Elliptical
Compact size with lots of features!
Low impact workout safely in your own home
Upgraded console is now easier to see and use
Handlebars and pedals sync for coordinated motion
|
Bowflex app has a subscription cost after the first year
Less extensive warranty than comparable machines
|
We ranked Bowflex Max Trainer M9 #7 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Bowflex Max Trainer M9 as #1.
Forbes
Best Elliptical Machine For Home Overall
Smaller footprint for easy storing
Cross between an elliptical and a stair stepper
Includes a large 10-inch HD touchscreen to follow fitness journey
|
Can be loud at higher speeds
|
T3
Best premium elliptical trainer
Many helpful features to combat subcutaneous fat
Dual-mode LCD/LED screens
Takes up half as much space as traditional ellipticals
Short workouts ideal for time-poor people
|
Limited stride length
|
We ranked NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i #8 in April 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Woman's World
Best NordicTrack elliptical
Automatic trainer control
24 resistance levels
Comes with a 1-year iFit membership
|
Treadmill Review Guru
Best Hybrid Elliptical
Both resistance and incline offer hearty training variables that will kick that heart rate up!
Smooth quiet motor is centered under the user’s body weight
Quick touch controls on the console make it easy to choose resistance or incline levels
iFit is included free for one year so you can evaluate the content to see great trainers and classes
Comfortable foot pedals are cushioned underfoot
Transport wheels enable you to move or slide the machine gently when needed
|
The FS10i does take up a bit of space since the pedals extend quite a ways both forward and back
There is a monthly subscription cost for iFit after the first year
|
We ranked Nautilus E618 #9 in April 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
CNET
Most classic elliptical
Sturdy
Smooth stride
Mostly quiet
|
Outdated display screen
Bluetooth technology is limited
No Wi-Fi
|
Byrdie
Best App-Based
Syncs to apps with Bluetooth connectivity
Smooth acceleration
Padded handlebars boast integrated resistance controls
|
Repair support could be improved
|
TopTenReviews
A great cross-trainer if you need a wealth of workout data
Comfortably cushioned footplates
Power incline up to 15 percent
Wireless heart rate monitoring
|
Fixed 22" stride length
|
We ranked Cubii JR1 #10 in April 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Chicago Tribune
Best for Small Spaces
Choose between the 8 resilience levels for personal preference.
Miniature LCD screen displays progress in calories, strides, and distance.
Compact design allows users to transport it to work or different areas in the house.
Includes live exercise classes led by professional trainers.
|
Heavy, so it may not be easy to change locations on a regular basis.
|
Byrdie
Best Under-Desk
Compact
Non-slip mat included
Quiet operation
|
Low weight capacity
|
We ranked Sunny Fitness SF-E3912 #11 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Chicago Tribune
Best Bang for the Buck
Has 24 built-in programs designed to target resistance and strength. Electro-magnetic resistance system contains 16 resistance levels. Device holder supports listening or streaming appliances. Foot pedal made with non-slip textures. Floor stabilizers add further safety on uneven or wooden floors.
|
Some users complain that the machine makes a clunking sound while working.
|
TopTenReviews
A mid-level home elliptical machine at an entry-level price
High weight capacity
Full-motion arm exercisers
24 unique workout modes
|
Short 14-inch stride length
|
We ranked ProForm Carbon HIIT H7 #12 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
CNET
Best Elliptical for Smaller Spaces
Ideal for small spaces
Quiet
Has iFit membership option
|
Turning it off can be a challenge
Lacks space for a tablet or other streaming device
|
TopTenReviews
Save on space with this hybrid cross-trainer machine
Total-body training
30lb flywheel
Compact
|
We ranked ProForm Pro HIIT H14 #13 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Forbes
Best Compact Elliptical Trainer For Home
Compact and easy to move
Works your entire body
Immersive and varied training options
Preprogrammed workouts available with WiFi connection
Sturdy and durable
|
Assembly is reportedly difficult
Not for casual workouts
Subscription required for full functionality
|
Treadmill Review Guru
Best Elliptical For HIIT
The unique pedal motion moves up and down 10” and forward and back 5” to work more muscle groups.
The handles offer plenty of grip options to work for you. Plus, the stationary handles let you just focus on your lower body.
It has a compact footprint, especially compared to other elliptical machines.
iFit is free for the 1st month and offers thousands of classes both on and off the machine.
|
iFit requires a monthly subscription after the first 30 days.
The pedal motion is a bit more like a stair-stepper than an elliptical.
|
We ranked Stamina InMotion E1000 #14 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Forbes
Best Under-Desk Elliptical Machine For Home
Lightweight and highly portable
Can be used while sitting or standing
Affordable
|
Can take awhile to catch your balance when standing
Some reviewers mention it can get noisy
|
money.com
Best Under-Desk Elliptical
Very light, portable and easy to store.
|
No upper-body workout.
|
We ranked Bowflex Max Total 16 #15 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
CNET
Best elliptical to stream your favorite shows
Fits in most spaces
Has a big HD touchscreen
Lets you stream Netflix, Hulu and other streaming services
Personalizes your workout experience
|
Heavier than Bowflex Max M9, which can be a hassle to move
Expensive
Can't use without a JRNY membership
|
Treadmill Review Guru
Best Elliptical For Netflix, Hulu, Etc
High-intensity training in a compact design.
Textured pedals and multi-grip handles work your entire body.
Subscription content on the 16” touch screen to never get bored while working out.
20 different levels of resistance to adjust and choose from.
|
The warranty is less than what other brands offer.
A subscription to JRNY is required to access the content on the touch screen.
|
We ranked Horizon Fitness EX 59 #16 in April 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Byrdie
Best for Low Ceilings
Low pedals
Bluetooth speakers
Rapid-charge USB port
|
Short strides
|
TopTenReviews
The best cross-trainer to kickstart your fitness journey
Low price
iPod-compatible
30-day money-back guarantee
|
Small 14lb flywheel
|