The 6 Best Ellipticals of 2024 - fitness diet

NordicTrack, Teeter, and BowFlex round out a strong crop of best ellipticals for smooth cardio. See which other elliptical machines made our list.

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A quick look at the best elliptical machines

Best high end: NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer Elliptical | Skip to review
Easiest on the knees: Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical | Skip to review
Best for outdoors: ElliptiGO 3C Outdoor Elliptical Bike | Skip to review
Best foldable: Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk Trainer | Skip to review
Best under-desk: Cubii JR1 Under-Desk Elliptical | Skip to review
Best for a full-body workout: BowFlex Max Trainer M9 | Skip to review

When it comes to exercising at home, there’s no shortage of cardio workout equipment to choose from.

Elliptical machines are a popular choice because ellipticals can be easier on your joints than treadmills but still offer a challenging workout.

However, because elliptical machines vary significantly in size, features, and price, it can be a challenge to find the best elliptical for your needs. Here’s our roundup of the 7 best ellipticals available.

A note on price

General price ranges with dollar signs ($ to $$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost.

Generally, list prices range from $129 to $3,299, but your actual price will depend on available discounts and where you shop.

Pricing guide

$ = under $750
$$ = $750 to $2,000
$$$ = over $2,000

Healthline’s picks of the best ellipticals of 2024

Best high end

NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer Elliptical

4.4 (18+) from NordicTrack

Item dimensions: 58.5 × 29.5 × 74 in (149 × 75 × 188 cm)
Price: $$$

SHOP NOW AT NORDICTRACK

Healthline's review

If you’re willing to splurge, the NordicTrack FreeStride Trainer is one of the best ellipticals overall, as this elliptical is packed with special features.

This elliptical machine boasts a whopping 26 levels of resistance, features −10% decline to 10% incline control, and even auto-adjusts to your stride length for a truly customized experience. Out of our picks for the best ellipticals, this NordicTrack elliptical machine has the highest weight capacity — 375 pounds (lb) or 170 kilograms (kg).

What’s more, its treadmill and stair-climbing settings mean you’re essentially getting three machines in one.

Other notable features include:

a cooling fan
soft-grip handles
oversized cushion pedals
a 14-inch (in), or 35.5-centimeter (cm), touch screen
Bluetooth speakers

As a bonus, this elliptical comes with a 30-day membership to iFit, a subscription service with thousands of on-demand workout options.

The membership also includes an option to have your incline and resistance levels adjusted by a personal trainer during your workout.

After your free trial, you can renew your subscription for $180 or $396 per year, depending on whether you choose an individual or family plan.

While this elliptical is one of the most expensive options, it comes with extensive warranties, including 10 years on the frame and 2 years on parts.

Pros & cons

acts as three machines in one
10-year warranty on the frame and a 2-year warranty on the parts
auto-adjusts to stride length
highest weight capacity (375 lb or 170 kg)

one of the pricier options
cost of iFit subscription can add up over time

acts as three machines in one
10-year warranty on the frame and a 2-year warranty on the parts
auto-adjusts to stride length
highest weight capacity (375 lb or 170 kg)

one of the pricier options
cost of iFit subscription can add up over time

Product details

Maximum weight capacity: 375 lb (170 kg)
Resistance: 26 levels, digital
Display type: HD touch screen
Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping

Maximum weight capacity: 375 lb (170 kg)
Resistance: 26 levels, digital
Display type: HD touch screen
Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: free shipping

Easiest on the knees

Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical

4.6 (1.1k+) from Amazon

Item dimensions: 55.25 x 38 x 52.5 in (140.3 x 96.5 x 133.4 cm)
Price: $$

SHOP NOW AT AMAZON

Healthline's review

Teeter’s FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical is designed especially for a workout that’s easy on the knees and back.

Like a recumbent exercise bike, this elliptical machine offers back support to reduce discomfort. Plus, the seat has a larger surface area and is thicker than that of most other ellipticals.

This elliptical machine uses magnetic resistance. This means that it’s less noisy than most ellipticals. The digital display tracks:

time
distance
speed
calorie burn

The media rack allows you to use your phone or tablet while working out.

An added bonus is that you can access instructor-led classes via the free Teeter Move app. Most of the elliptical machines on this list are compatible with costly workout apps, which can be expensive over time. The Teeter Move app, however, is free. Additionally, shipping is free if you order from the Teeter website.

Pros & cons

easy on the knees and back
has transport wheels for easy movement
silent magnetic resistance decreases workout noise
free access to the Teeter Move app

not foldable
some users complain that assembly is difficult

easy on the knees and back
has transport wheels for easy movement
silent magnetic resistance decreases workout noise
free access to the Teeter Move app

not foldable
some users complain that assembly is difficult

Product details

Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb (136.0 kg)
Resistance: 13 levels, magnetic resistance
Display type: cord-free digital
Warranty: ‎1-Year warranty
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb (136.0 kg)
Resistance: 13 levels, magnetic resistance
Display type: cord-free digital
Warranty: ‎1-Year warranty
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

Best for outdoors

ElliptiGO 3C Outdoor Elliptical Bike

4.8 (32+) from Eliiptigo

Item dimensions: 75 × 50–58 in (190.5 × 127–147 cm)
Price: $$$

SHOP NOW AT ELLIPTIGO

Healthline's review

Looking to take your elliptical workout outside? The ElliptiGO 3C Outdoor Stand-Up Bike is a fun and unique way to work up a sweat.

Unlike a classic elliptical machine, the ElliptiGO doesn’t have a seat. Instead, you propel the bike forward by standing and moving the pedals in a gliding motion.

Just keep in mind that this elliptical is meant for outdoor use and can be bulky to store. If you do want to ride indoors, ElliptiGO offers an accessory called the Fluid 365 Stationary Trainer for $599 that will hold the elliptical machine in place.

Pros & cons

easy and enjoyable outdoor workout
comes almost fully assembled

need to purchase additional equipment to use inside
bulky to store

easy and enjoyable outdoor workout
comes almost fully assembled

need to purchase additional equipment to use inside
bulky to store

Product details

Maximum weight capacity: 250 lb (113 kg)
Resistance: 3 levels
Warranty: 5-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year paint and decals
Display type: none
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout

Maximum weight capacity: 250 lb (113 kg)
Resistance: 3 levels
Warranty: 5-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year paint and decals
Display type: none
Returns: returns within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout

Best foldable

Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk Trainer

4.3 (502+) from Walmart

Item dimensions: 25 x 19 x 57 in (63.5 x 48.3 x 144.8 cm)
Price: $

SHOP NOW AT WALMART

Healthline's review

Looking for the best elliptical you can tuck away when you’re not working out? The Air Walk Trainer can fold up to half its length for easy storage between workouts.

While this elliptical doesn’t offer incline or resistance levels, it does have a 30-in (76.2-cm) stride capacity that stands out from the other best ellipticals on our list.

This elliptical also has an adjustable abdominal cushion so people of different heights can feel comfortable working out on the same elliptical machine. That said, the max weight capacity is 220 lbs, which may not suit all users.

While this elliptical trainer is probably not the best choice for serious athletes, the low price and easy assembly (users rave about how easy it is to put together) make this one of the best budget ellipticals for a tight space.

Pros & cons

folds up for easy storage between uses
longer stride capacity and adjustable abdominal cushion
low price

not as stable as some other options on our list
no incline or resistance levels
no touch screen
lower max weight capacity that may not suit all users

folds up for easy storage between uses
longer stride capacity and adjustable abdominal cushion
low price

not as stable as some other options on our list
no incline or resistance levels
no touch screen
lower max weight capacity that may not suit all users

Product details

Maximum weight capacity: 220 lb (100 kg)
Display type: LCD monitor
Resistance: none
Warranty: 1-year frame, 180 days parts and components
Shipping: free shipping

Maximum weight capacity: 220 lb (100 kg)
Display type: LCD monitor
Resistance: none
Warranty: 1-year frame, 180 days parts and components
Shipping: free shipping

Best under-desk

Cubii JR1 Under-Desk Elliptical

4.6 (15.7k+) from Amazon

Item dimensions: 23.15 x 17.56 x 10 in (58.8 x 44.6 x 25.4 cm)
Price: $

SHOP NOW AT AMAZON

Healthline's review

What if you could take your elliptical machine to work with you? The Cubii is small enough to fit:

under desks
next to couches
in your car on road trips

This elliptical is meant for use while sitting, which also makes it a good option for doing physical therapy or exercising with an upper body injury.

Although it lacks handlebars, this elliptical offers eight resistance levels and has an LCD screen to help you track calories burned and distance traveled.

It won’t engage your upper body like some elliptical machines do, which means it’s not the best elliptical for a back-and-shoulder workout. But since you can use this elliptical while you’re sitting at work, you might find that you use it more throughout the day.

The Cubii uses magnetic resistance, which means a muted workout, so you won’t have to worry about disturbing your co-workers.

If you enjoy the convenience of working out on your own but miss the community feel of a group class, you can subscribe to Cubii Studio+ to access over 300 free on-demand workout classes.

Pros & cons

easy to store
quiet
budget-friendly

no handlebars for a full-body workout
may not offer enough resistance for some
can slide on some surfaces during workout

easy to store
quiet
budget-friendly

no handlebars for a full-body workout
may not offer enough resistance for some
can slide on some surfaces during workout

Product details

Resistance: 8 levels
Display type: digital
Maximum weight capacity: 28.7 lb (13 kg) when seated
Warranty: 1 year
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

Resistance: 8 levels
Display type: digital
Maximum weight capacity: 28.7 lb (13 kg) when seated
Warranty: 1 year
Returns: free returns for Prime members
Shipping: free shipping for Prime members

Best for a full-body workout

BowFlex Max Trainer M9

4.5 (405+) from Bowflex

Item dimensions: 49.21 x 30.5 x 65.12 in
Price: $$

SHOP NOW AT BOWFLEX

Healthline's review

If you want a full-body workout, the BowFlex Max Trainer M9 is a great elliptical machine. This elliptical is similar to the M6 but includes an HD touch screen you can use to access streaming services and the JRNY app for guided workouts.

With 20 resistance levels, you can adjust this elliptical to suit your specific needs and fitness level. What’s more, it integrates with smart devices and heart rate monitors and includes a heart rate armband so you can make sure that you’re getting the most out of your workout.

While a 1-year JRNY membership is included with your purchase, you’ll need to renew your membership after a year to continue to get the most out of the equipment. It typically costs $19.99 per month or $149 per year plus taxes.

Pros & cons

more resistance levels than most other ellipticals
several streaming options
large HD touch screen

limited warranties
requires JRNY membership

more resistance levels than most other ellipticals
several streaming options
large HD touch screen

limited warranties
requires JRNY membership

Product details

Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb (136 kg)
Resistance: 20 levels
Display type: HD touch screen
Warranty: 3-year frame, 3-year parts, 1-year electronics, 90-days labor
Returns: returns within 6 weeks
Shipping: $99 for shipping ($249 for Alaska and Hawaii)

Maximum weight capacity: 300 lb (136 kg)
Resistance: 20 levels
Display type: HD touch screen
Warranty: 3-year frame, 3-year parts, 1-year electronics, 90-days labor
Returns: returns within 6 weeks
Shipping: $99 for shipping ($249 for Alaska and Hawaii)

Elliptical head-to-head comparison

Here’s a quick look at how our top-rated ellipticals compare:

Product and priceDimensionsMax weight capacityIncline and resistance levelsSubscription service and costNordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer^T$$$58.5 × 29.5 × 74 in (149 × 75 × 188 cm)375 lb (170.5 kg)• −10% to 10% incline• 26 levels• iFit• $396 per yearTeeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical^D$$55.25 x 38 x 52.5 in (140.3 x 96.52 x 133.4 cm)‎300 lb (136.0 kg)• none• 13 levels• TeeterMove • freeEllptiGO 3C Outdoor Elliptical Bike$$$75 × 50 to 58 in (190.5 × 127 to 147 cm)250 lb (113.6 kg)• none• 3 gears—Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk Trainer^L$25 x 19 x 57 in (63.5 x 48.3 x 144.8 cm)220 lb (100 kg)• none• none—Cubii JR1 Under-Desk Elliptical^L$‎23.15 x 17.56 x 10 in(58.8 x 44.6 x 25.4 cm)250 lb (113.6 kg)• none• 8 levels• Cubii Studio+• $7.99 per month or $74.99 per yearBowFlex Max Trainer M9$$49.2 x 30.5 x 65.1 in (125 x 77.5 x 165.4 cm)300 lb (136 kg)• none• 20 levels• BowFlex JRNY app• $19.99 per month

^L = LCD display, ^T = Touch screen display, ^D = Digital monitor

How we chose our best ellipticals

We researched the best ellipticals on the market and evaluated them based on the following criteria:

Workout modes and resistance levels: For the best elliptical workout possible, we looked for elliptical machines with customized workout options.
Special features: We know it’s the little things that really set an elliptical machine apart, so we factored in features like cupholders, fans, touch screens, and instructor-led classes.
Price: Because budgets can vary, we included elliptical machines at a variety of price points, from high end machines to budget ellipticals under $750.
Warranties: The best ellipticals aren’t cheap, which is why we researched the warranty policy for each product.
Customer reviews: Some things you just can’t know until you try a product. We’ve combed customer reviews to find the top-rated elliptical machines according to those who’ve used them first-hand.

Our list is not in rank order because we recognize that the best elliptical machine for you will depend on your specific needs and desires. To help you with this, we’ve tried to select the best options for a variety of features.

Note that the prices above reflect the current market list price and may vary by retailer.

Tips for choosing your own elliptical

Ready to buy an elliptical? Here are some factors to consider:

Space: How much room do you have for an elliptical machine? Do you have space for additional equipment, or do you need a multipurpose machine?
Your exercise needs and desired features: How many resistance and incline levels do you want? Are you fine working out on your own, or do you prefer instructor-led classes?
Warranties: The best ellipticals are pricey investments, so you’ll want to check what’s covered under the warranty and for how long.
Customer reviews: Especially if you’re ordering online and can’t try it out for yourself, look for an elliptical machine that’s rated highly by consumers.

Frequently asked questions

Are home ellipticals worth it?

If you use a home elliptical frequently enough, it’s worth the investment. For many people, buying an elliptical machine for home use is worth it, since it can be easier to get a quick workout at home than it is to go to the gym.

Consider creating a regular exercise routine to ensure you get your money’s worth.

If you’re not sure whether you’ll enjoy using an elliptical, consider trying one out in a gym or at a sports equipment store before making a purchase. If you prefer to use a variety of gym equipment, a gym membership might be more worthwhile.

Consider creating a regular exercise routine to ensure you get your money’s worth.

Are front- or rear-drive ellipticals better?

Personal preference plays a large role in choosing between the two elliptical styles.

Front-drive ellipticals tend to be cheaper and more compact, but having the flywheel in the front can also limit stride length a bit. This can affect taller people whose legs need extra stride room.

Rear-drive ellipticals tend to flatten exercise movements and have a more natural feel. They also tend to be quieter and have fewer moving parts, which can mean less maintenance. These ellipticals may not offer the same range of incline options as a front-drive elliptical, though.

Personal preference plays a large role in choosing between the two elliptical styles.

Front-drive ellipticals tend to be cheaper and more compact, but having the flywheel in the front can also limit stride length a bit. This can affect taller people whose legs need extra stride room.

What muscles do ellipticals strengthen?

Elliptical machines can offer a full-body aerobic workout. An elliptical workout can strengthen your:

glutes
hamstrings
quads
chest
back
biceps
triceps
core muscles

Have a specific area you’d like to focus on? By changing the incline and resistance, you can focus on specific lower body muscle groups such as your quads or calves. Moving the pedals in reverse allows you to focus on your hamstrings and glutes.

If you stand up straight and release the handlebars, you can even work on core strength and balance.

Elliptical machines can offer a full-body aerobic workout. An elliptical workout can strengthen your:

glutes
hamstrings
quads
chest
back
biceps
triceps
core muscles

If you stand up straight and release the handlebars, you can even work on core strength and balance.

Are ellipticals safe?

When used appropriately, ellipticals can be a safe way to get a low impact workout. In fact, using an elliptical can put less stress on your knees, hips, and back than running or using a treadmill.

Before beginning any new exercise routine, it’s important to check with a healthcare professional. They can advise you on any specific personal health concerns that would make working out on an elliptical unsafe.

When used appropriately, ellipticals can be a safe way to get a low impact workout. In fact, using an elliptical can put less stress on your knees, hips, and back than running or using a treadmill.

Is an elliptical better than walking?

Both walking and using the elliptical are cardiovascular exercises, and they both burn calories. While walking is a free and relatively accessible workout, elliptical workouts offer some distinct advantages over a long stroll.

If you’re looking for a low impact workout to reduce strain on your joints, using an elliptical may be better than walking.

A 2022 study showed that an elliptical workout is less weight-bearing than walking and other cardio exercises.

A study from 2020 found that elliptical workouts put less pressure on the plantar fascia than walking, which may make ellipticals better for people who tend to get plantar fasciitis.

To reap all the benefits of elliptical exercise, it’s a good idea to speak with a physiotherapist or personal trainer. This is an especially good idea if you have an injury or specific health concern.

If you’re looking for a low impact workout to reduce strain on your joints, using an elliptical may be better than walking.

A 2022 study showed that an elliptical workout is less weight-bearing than walking and other cardio exercises.

A study from 2020 found that elliptical workouts put less pressure on the plantar fascia than walking, which may make ellipticals better for people who tend to get plantar fasciitis.

What single machine is better than an elliptical?

A treadmill has some benefits over an elliptical: It can be more effective for burning calories and improving strength. However, the elliptical is easier on your joints, especially your knee joints, offering lower impact workouts.

If you’re looking to get something specific out of your workouts, it might be best to discuss it with a physiotherapist or personal trainer, as they can give you personalized advice on which machines to use.

What is the most reliable elliptical?

It’s hard to say which is the most reliable elliptical. Reliability can depend on how often you use your elliptical and how hard you push it during your workouts.

But for a high quality elliptical that’s worth the price, try the NordicTrack FreeStride trainer. The construction of this elliptical machine is unmatched, and it comes with a wide variety of settings and features.

It’s hard to say which is the most reliable elliptical. Reliability can depend on how often you use your elliptical and how hard you push it during your workouts.

Which elliptical is best for weight loss?

The best elliptical for weight loss depends on your lifestyle and how you plan to use your elliptical machine.

The ElliptiGO 3C Outdoor Elliptical Bike is great for weight loss because it allows you to work out your whole body as you do your elliptical workout and power the bike. This results in an intense cardio workout that also helps you build core strength and stamina for even more effective cardio workouts.

The best elliptical for weight loss depends on your lifestyle and how you plan to use your elliptical machine.

What is the best elliptical machine for total body workout?

The Bowflex Max Trainer M9 is the best elliptical machine for a total body workout.

This elliptical has 20 resistance levels that can help you work out different parts of your body at different fitness levels. This elliptical machine also works with most smart devices and heart rate monitors so that you can watch your body’s response to various workouts and resistance levels.

The Bowflex Max Trainer M9 is the best elliptical machine for a total body workout.

Can you lose belly fat on an elliptical?

No specific workout can help you lose belly fat faster than another. However, if you want to burn calories, elliptical machines can offer a high intensity workout without affecting your joints as much as, say, a treadmill.

Working out on an elliptical machine can improve your core muscles, which won’t necessarily help you lose belly fat but can help you strengthen your abdominal muscles.

The bottom line

Elliptical machines are a low impact way to get your heart rate up at home.

Before buying an elliptical machine for home use, consider how your home elliptical can fit into your:

lifestyle
physical space
budget

You can use this list as a starting point to find the best elliptical for your needs. Remember to check with a healthcare professional before beginning any new exercise plan with an elliptical machine.