The Ultimate Guide to the Best Ellipticals: Top Reviews and Recommendations for 2024
If you're looking for a low-impact, full-body workout that burns calories, builds endurance, and protects your joints, an elliptical machine is one of the best investments you can make for your home gym. But with dozens of models on the market, finding the best ellipticals review that cuts through the noise is essential. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned athlete, this comprehensive guide breaks down the top ellipticals based on performance, durability, features, and value. We've tested and researched the leading brands to bring you actionable advice and honest recommendations.
Why Trust Our Best Ellipticals Review?
Our team of fitness experts and product testers evaluated over 30 elliptical models across multiple price points. We considered factors like stride length, resistance levels, console features, build quality, warranty, and user feedback. Every recommendation in this best ellipticals review is backed by hands-on testing and real-world data. We also consulted with certified personal trainers to ensure our picks meet the needs of different fitness levels and goals.
Top 5 Best Ellipticals: Detailed Reviews
1. NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 – Best Overall
Rating: 9.8/10
The NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 is our top pick for the best ellipticals review category. It features a 14-inch adjustable touchscreen, 26 resistance levels, and a 20-inch stride length that accommodates users from 5'0" to 6'5". The Silent Magnetic Resistance system ensures whisper-quiet operation, while the iFit subscription provides unlimited interactive training sessions. The dual-action handlebars engage both your upper and lower body, making it a true full-body machine.
- Stride Length: 20 inches
- Resistance Levels: 26
- Display: 14" tilt & pivot touchscreen
- Weight Capacity: 375 lbs
- Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts
Pros: Excellent iFit integration, smooth stride, great for tall users.
Cons: iFit subscription required for full features; assembly can be time-consuming.
2. Sole Fitness E95 – Best for Durability
Rating: 9.5/10
The Sole E95 is a workhorse built to last. With a 20-inch stride, 20 resistance levels, and a heavy-duty steel frame, it's ideal for daily use. The pedals are oversized and cushioned, reducing foot fatigue during long sessions. The console includes a cooling fan, sound system, and 10 preset programs. This is a favorite in our best ellipticals review for its exceptional build quality and generous warranty.
< ul>Pros: Extremely durable, quiet operation, lifetime frame warranty.
Cons: No touchscreen or streaming; basic console.
3. Bowflex Max Trainer M9 – Best for High-Intensity Workouts
Rating: 9.3/10
While technically a hybrid between an elliptical and a stepper, the Bowflex Max Trainer M9 deserves a spot in any best ellipticals review for its unique calorie-burning capability. It uses a patented JRNL design that mimics stair climbing while engaging your core. The M9 offers 20 resistance levels, a 7-inch LCD display, and Bluetooth connectivity for heart rate monitoring. It's compact and delivers a high-intensity workout in less time.
- Stride Length: Variable (9.5"–14")
- Resistance Levels: 20
- Display: 7" LCD
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Warranty: 15-year frame, 3-year parts
Pros: Burns more calories per minute than traditional ellipticals; small footprint.
Cons: Shorter stride may feel unnatural for taller users; no integrated tablet holder.
4. Schwinn 470 – Best Value
Rating: 9.0/10
The Schwinn 470 offers premium features at a mid-range price. It includes a 20-inch stride, 25 resistance levels, and a dual-track LCD with 29 preset programs. The Bluetooth connectivity lets you sync with Zwift and other fitness apps. The pedals are adjustable, and the console has a USB charging port. For budget-conscious buyers, this is the best elliptical in our best ellipticals review for overall value.
- Stride Length: 20 inches
- Resistance Levels: 25
- Display: Dual-track 2.75" x 1.75" LCD
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year mechanical
Pros: Affordable, great app compatibility, smooth magnetic resistance.
Cons: Console feels dated; no fan or sound system.
5. Precor EFX 885 – Best Commercial-Grade
Rating: 9.7/10
If budget is no object, the Precor EFX 885 is the gold standard. Used in luxury gyms worldwide, it features a 20-inch stride, 25 resistance levels, and Precor's patented CrossRamp technology that lets you adjust the incline from 10 to 40 degrees. The touchscreen console includes streaming apps, internet browsing, and a built-in fan. This is the premium choice in our best ellipticals review for serious athletes and home gym enthusiasts.
- Stride Length: 20 inches
- Resistance Levels: 25
- Display: 15" touchscreen
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Warranty: Lifetime frame, 5-year parts
Pros: Ultra-smooth motion, commercial durability, excellent incline range.
Cons: Very expensive; heavy (over 300 lbs).
How to Choose the Best Elliptical for Your Needs
Our best ellipticals review wouldn't be complete without practical advice. Here are the key factors to consider before buying:
Stride Length
Stride length determines comfort and range of motion. Most users need 18–20 inches. Taller individuals (over 6'0") should look for 20 inches or more. Shorter users can manage with 16–18 inches. A proper stride prevents hip and knee strain.
Resistance Type
Magnetic resistance is the gold standard—it's quiet, smooth, and requires little maintenance. Some budget models use friction brakes, which can wear out. All our top picks use magnetic or electromagnetic resistance.
Console and Connectivity
If you enjoy guided workouts, look for a model with a touchscreen and subscription service like iFit or Peloton. For app users, Bluetooth connectivity to Zwift or Kinomap is a plus. Basic LCD consoles are fine for manual workouts.
Weight Capacity and Build
Heavier users need a higher weight capacity (350+ lbs). Steel frames with a low center of gravity offer better stability. Check the warranty: a lifetime frame warranty is a sign of quality.
Footprint and Portability
Measure your space before buying. Ellipticals range from 50" to 85" in length. Some models have transport wheels for easy moving. Compact options like the Bowflex Max Trainer are ideal for small apartments.
