September 2022
Elliptical Trainers: Meta Ranking Report
This report contains an aggregate consensus of Elliptical Trainer rankings posted by key online experts, as of September 2022.
Summary
As of 10 Sep 2022, Nautilus E618 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed elliptical trainer with 6 expert endorsements. 1 experts out of 6 recommended it as the '#1 elliptical trainer' this month. It is followed by Sole Fitness E25 and Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 , with 4 and 4 expert endorsements respectively.
At a glance - September 2022 Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Elliptical Trainer |
TopTenReviews
|
NBC News
|
Treadmill Review Guru
|
Forbes
|
money.com
|
T3
|
Woman's World
|
CNET
|
Chicago Tribune
|
Byrdie
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $1111 |
Nautilus E618
|
6
|
7
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
3
|
8
|
|
2
|
- | $1000 |
Sole Fitness E25
|
7
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
3
|
- | Check price |
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
|
4
|
- | $2499 |
NordicTrack FS14i
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
|
5
|
- | $1099 |
Schwinn 470
|
8
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
|
6
|
- | Check price |
Bowflex Max Trainer M6
|
-
|
4
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | $1400 |
Sole Fitness E35
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
|
8
|
+1 | $3017 |
NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i
|
-
|
2
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
9
|
+1 | $683 |
Horizon Fitness EX 59
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
|
10
|
+1 | Check price |
Bowflex Max Trainer M9
|
-
|
11
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
|
11
|
+1 | $249 |
Cubii JR1
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
|
12
|
+1 | Check price |
ProForm Carbon HIIT H7
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
|
13
|
+1 | Check price |
ProForm Hybrid Trainer
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
14
|
+1 | $406 |
Sunny Fitness SF-E3912
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
|
18
|
- | $2700 |
NordicTrack SE9i
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
We ranked Nautilus E618 #1 in September 2022 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Nautilus E618 as #1.
TopTenReviews
Best Elliptical Machine For Guided Workouts
|
Pros
Comfortably cushioned footplates
Power incline up to 15 percent
Wireless heart rate monitoring
|
Cons
Fixed 22" stride length
|
Forbes
Best Elliptical Overall
|
Pros
Lots of resistance
Large stride
|
Cons
LCD display is simplistic
|
Chicago Tribune
Best For Everyday Use
|
Pros
Features Bluetooth connectivity and free app-based tracking tools. Offers an optimized drivetrain with a weighted flywheel for a smooth experience. Has a 350-pound load capacity. Warranty on frame, parts, electronics, and labor available.
|
Cons
Leaving your phone or water bottle in the tray may disrupt some tracking or training programs.
|
Byrdie
Best App-Based
|
Pros
Syncs to apps with Bluetooth connectivity
Smooth acceleration
Padded handlebars boast integrated resistance controls
|
Cons
Pricey
|
We ranked Sole Fitness E25 #2 in September 2022 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Sole Fitness E25 as #1.
TopTenReviews
Best Home Elliptical Machine Under $1,000
|
Pros
Industry-leading warranty
Oversized foot pedals for a comfy workout
Wireless heart rate monitoring
|
Cons
Stride length isn’t adjustable
|
money.com
Editor's Pick
|
Pros
Warranty lasts lifetime on frame and 3 years for parts.
|
Cons
Limited preset workout programs compared to other models.
|
T3
Best elliptical trainer for durability
|
Pros
Lifetime guarantee
Gym-like spec
|
Cons
More expensive
|
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 September 2022 ranking
TopTenReviews
NBC News
Treadmill Review Guru
Forbes
money.com
T3
Woman's World
CNET
Chicago Tribune
Byrdie
We ranked Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 #3 in September 2022 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 as #1.
money.com
Best for Low Prices
|
Pros
Built-in wheels for easy transportation and storage.
|
Cons
Doesn’t have a reversible stride.
|
Woman's World
Best Elliptical Under $200
|
Pros
8 levels of magnetic resistance
Compact
Digital display measures time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse
|
Byrdie
Best Budget
|
Pros
Budget-friendly
Digital display
Pulse sensors
|
Cons
Low weight capacity
|
We ranked NordicTrack FS14i #4 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked NordicTrack FS14i as #1.
Treadmill Review Guru
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
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.
|
T3
Best elliptical trainer overall
|
Pros
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
|
Cons
Monthly iFit membership required (30-day trial included)
Tricky to move once assembled
|
Byrdie
Best Splurge:
|
Pros
Smart HD touchscreen
Bluetooth connectivity
On-demand workouts
|
Cons
Expensive
Requires monthly membership
|
We ranked Schwinn 470 #5 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Schwinn 470 as #1.
TopTenReviews
Best Elliptical Machine For A Varied Workout
|
Pros
29-item program menu
Smooth striding
User-friendly LCD
|
Cons
Short labor warranty
|
Byrdie
Best Overall
|
Pros
Syncs with multiple apps
Acoustic speakers
USB charging port
Ergonomic design
|
Cons
Pricey
|
We ranked Bowflex Max Trainer M6 #6 in September 2022 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
Treadmill Review Guru
|
Pros
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
|
Cons
Bowflex app has a subscription cost after the first year
Less extensive warranty than comparable machines
|
Woman's World
Best Elliptical Worth Splurging On
|
Pros
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
|
Chicago Tribune
Feature-Packed
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
Some users noticed that it can be a bit loud on higher resistance settings.
|
We ranked Sole Fitness E35 #7 in September 2022 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
Forbes
Best Elliptical for Sensitive Joints
|
Pros
Reduces ankle and knee stress
Extra low-impact workout
|
Cons
Bare-bones display
|
T3
Best full-size elliptical trainer
|
Pros
Sleek, compact, and quiet
Designed to be easy on the joints
Compatible with the STUDIO app, which offers 50+ elliptical-targeted classes
|
Cons
No built-in video screen
|
Byrdie
Best for Comfort
|
Pros
Foot pedals encourage natural running motion
Power incline
Quiet operation
|
Cons
Expensive
|
We ranked NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i #8 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
Treadmill Review Guru
|
Pros
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
|
Cons
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
|
Woman's World
Best NordicTrack elliptical
|
Pros
Automatic trainer control
24 resistance levels
Comes with a 1-year iFit membership
|
We ranked Horizon Fitness EX 59 #9 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
TopTenReviews
Best Elliptical Machine For Beginners
|
Pros
Low price
iPod-compatible
30-day money-back guarantee
|
Cons
Small 14lb flywheel
|
Forbes
Best Elliptical For Beginners
|
Pros
Low price
Ideal for beginners
|
Cons
Not many bells and whistles
|
Byrdie
Best for Low Ceilings
|
Pros
Low pedals
Bluetooth speakers
Rapid-charge USB port
|
Cons
Short strides
|
We ranked Bowflex Max Trainer M9 #10 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
Forbes
Best Full Body Workout Elliptical
|
Pros
Smaller footprint
Free workout mat
|
Cons
Can be loud at higher speeds
|
We ranked Cubii JR1 #11 in September 2022 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
Forbes
Best Under-Desk Elliptical
|
Pros
Highly portable
No setup required
|
Cons
Just 8 resistance levels
|
Byrdie
Best Under-Desk
|
Pros
Compact
Non-slip mat included
Quiet operation
|
Cons
Low weight capacity
|
We ranked ProForm Carbon HIIT H7 #12 in September 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
TopTenReviews
Best Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
|
Pros
Total-body training
30lb flywheel
Compact
|
We ranked ProForm Hybrid Trainer #13 in September 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
money.com
Best 2-in-1 Elliptical Machine
|
Pros
Easily transitions from elliptical trainer to recumbent bike.
|
Cons
Some customers complain about it being noisy.
|
We ranked Sunny Fitness SF-E3912 #14 in September 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
TopTenReviews
Best affordable elliptical machine
|
Pros
High weight capacity
Full-motion arm exercisers
24 unique workout modes
|
Cons
Short 14-inch stride length
|
Chicago Tribune
Best Bang for the Buck
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
Some users complain that the machine makes a clunking sound while working.
|
We ranked NordicTrack SE9i #15 in September 2022 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
Treadmill Review Guru
|
Pros
Cushioned pedals are comfortable underfoot with a nice lip to hold feet securely
Motion is fluid as you move the pedals back and forth
The touchscreen display makes watching programs fun and entertaining
Quick Touch controls on the console feature large, easy to read numbers for incline and resistance levels
The SE9i will fold when not in use!
iFit classes are updated frequently so you won’t run out of training options!
|
Cons
Touchscreen is full color, but only 7” so it may be hard for some people to see
There is a monthly subscription cost for iFit after the first year
|
Forbes
Best Compact Elliptical
|
Pros
Folds up easily
Good ergonomics
|
Cons
Stride too short for some users
|