May 2023
Elliptical Trainers: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of Elliptical Trainer rankings posted by key online experts, as of May 2023.
Summary
Between 4 May 2023 and 4 May 2023, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 79 Elliptical Trainer endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
50 Elliptical Trainers were endorsed in total, only 15 made it into this month's ranking (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included).
As of 4 May 2023, Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed elliptical trainer with 5 expert endorsements. 1 expert out of 5 recommended it as the '#1 elliptical trainer' this month. It is followed by Schwinn 470 and NordicTrack FS14i , with 4 and 3 expert endorsements respectively.
Brand breakdown
-
NordicTrack:
6 Elliptical Trainers
(#1 is NordicTrack SE7i )
-
Bowflex:
5 Elliptical Trainers
(#1 is Bowflex M3 Max Trainer )
-
Proform:
4 Elliptical Trainers
(#1 is ProForm Carbon EL )
-
Sunny Health & Fitness:
3 Elliptical Trainers
(#1 is Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3865 )
-
Sole Fitness:
3 Elliptical Trainers
(#1 is Sole Fitness E95S )
Price breakdown
At a glance - May 2023 Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Elliptical Trainer |
Woman's World
|
CNET
|
TopTenReviews
|
T3
|
Chicago Tribune
|
money.com
|
Forbes
|
Treadmill Review Guru
|
Byrdie
|
NBC News
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | Check price |
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
4
|
-
|
2
|
3
|
|
2
|
- | $1099 |
Schwinn 470
|
-
|
4
|
8
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
3
|
- | $2299 |
NordicTrack FS14i
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
3
|
-
|
|
4
|
- | $1100 |
Sole Fitness E35
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
7
|
1
|
|
5
|
- | $1802 |
Nautilus E618
|
-
|
5
|
6
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
|
6
|
- | $900 |
Sole Fitness E25
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
7
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | Check price |
Bowflex Max Trainer M6
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
4
|
|
8
|
- | Check price |
Bowflex Max Trainer M9
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
9
|
- | $2855 |
NordicTrack Commercial 14.9
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
|
10
|
- | $2739 |
NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
-
|
2
|
|
11
|
- | Check price |
ProForm Carbon HIIT H7
|
-
|
2
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
12
|
- | $500 |
Sunny Fitness SF-E3912
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
14
|
- | $129 |
Stamina InMotion E1000
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
15
|
- | Check price |
Bowflex Max Total 16
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
|
16
|
- | $755 |
Horizon Fitness EX 59
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
Sorted by price:
| Position in ranking | Price | Elliptical Trainer |
|---|---|---|
| #14 | $129 | Stamina InMotion E1000 [buy] [more info] |
| #12 | $499.98 | Sunny Fitness SF-E3912 [buy] [more info] |
| #16 | $755.05 | Horizon Fitness EX 59 [buy] [more info] |
| #6 | $899.99 | Sole Fitness E25 [buy] [more info] |
| #2 | $1099 | Schwinn 470 [buy] [more info] |
| #4 | $1099.99 | Sole Fitness E35 [buy] [more info] |
| #5 | $1802 | Nautilus E618 [buy] [more info] |
| #3 | $2299 | NordicTrack FS14i [buy] [more info] |
| #10 | $2739 | NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i [buy] [more info] |
| #9 | $2855 | NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 [buy] [more info] |
We ranked Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 #1 in May 2023 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 as #1.
Woman's World
Best Elliptical Under $200
|
Pros
8 levels of magnetic resistance
Compact
Digital display measures time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse
|
money.com
Best for Low Prices
|
Pros
Built-in wheels for easy transportation and storage.
|
Cons
Doesn’t have a reversible stride.
|
Forbes
Best Budget Elliptical
|
Pros
Great price
Eight resistance levels
|
Cons
Compact stride length
Very light on features
|
Byrdie
Best Budget
|
Pros
Budget-friendly
Digital display
Pulse sensors
|
Cons
Low weight capacity
|
We ranked Schwinn 470 #2 in May 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Schwinn 470 as #1.
CNET
Most comfortable elliptical
|
Pros
Comfortable and intuitive to use
Ideal for people of all heights and weights
|
Cons
Lacks modern touch screen
No Wi-Fi connection
Not good for small spaces
|
TopTenReviews
Best Elliptical Machine For A Varied Workout
|
Pros
29-item program menu
Smooth striding
User-friendly LCD
|
Cons
Short labor warranty
|
Chicago Tribune
Best of the Best
|
Pros
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.
|
Cons
The Bluetooth doesn't allow to sync music.
|
Byrdie
Best Overall
|
Pros
Syncs with multiple apps
Acoustic speakers
USB charging port
Ergonomic design
|
Cons
Repair support could be improved
|
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 May 2023 ranking
Woman's World
CNET
TopTenReviews
T3
Chicago Tribune
money.com
Forbes
Treadmill Review Guru
Byrdie
NBC News
We ranked NordicTrack FS14i #3 in May 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked NordicTrack FS14i as #1.
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
|
Treadmill Review Guru
Best Elliptical Overall
|
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.
|
Byrdie
Best Splurge:
|
Pros
Smart HD touchscreen
Bluetooth connectivity
On-demand workouts
|
Cons
Expensive
Requires monthly membership
|
We ranked Sole Fitness E35 #4 in May 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sole Fitness E35 as #1.
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
|
Forbes
Best Elliptical Machine For Sensitive Joints
|
Pros
Reduces ankle and knee stress
Extra low-impact workout
|
Cons
Bare-bones display
Pricey
|
Byrdie
Best for Comfort
|
Pros
Foot pedals encourage natural running motion
Power incline
Quiet operation
|
Cons
Assembly could be easier
|
We ranked Nautilus E618 #5 in May 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
CNET
Most classic elliptical
|
Pros
Sturdy
Smooth stride
Mostly quiet
|
Cons
Outdated display screen
Bluetooth technology is limited
No Wi-Fi
|
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
|
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
Repair support could be improved
|
We ranked Sole Fitness E25 #6 in May 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert 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
|
T3
Best elliptical trainer for durability
|
Pros
Lifetime guarantee
Gym-like spec
|
Cons
More expensive
|
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.
|
We ranked Bowflex Max Trainer M6 #7 in May 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
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.
|
Treadmill Review Guru
Best Compact Elliptical
|
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
|
We ranked Bowflex Max Trainer M9 #8 in May 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Bowflex Max Trainer M9 as #1.
T3
Best money-no-object elliptical trainer
|
Pros
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
|
Cons
Limited stride length
|
Forbes
Best Elliptical Machine Overall
|
Pros
Smaller footprint
Free workout mat
|
Cons
Can be loud at higher speeds
|
We ranked NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 #9 in May 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 as #1.
CNET
Best Elliptical Overall
|
Pros
Modern design
Smooth stride
Has an iFit program option
|
Cons
It's big
The iFit membership comes at additional cost
|
Treadmill Review Guru
Best Front-Drive Elliptical
|
Pros
The 32 lb flywheel is heavy and front-mounted to give extra stability to the console and overall construction of the machine.
The pedals are well-cushioned and oversized for support and can be adjusted to work for a large variety of users.
The price point is reasonable considering the overall high quality.
The 14” touch screen is clear and displays thousands of workouts filmed all around the world with an iFit membership.
The handles offer training for total body training and for isolating your lower body.
The stride length is comfortable and long enough for a wide range of heights.
|
Cons
Taller users might be limited with the pedal range when the elliptical is fully inclined.
The incline function is a little noisy, however, the resistance and pedals are quiet.
|
We ranked NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i #10 in May 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
Woman's World
Best NordicTrack elliptical
|
Pros
Automatic trainer control
24 resistance levels
Comes with a 1-year iFit membership
|
Treadmill Review Guru
Best Hybrid Elliptical
|
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
|
We ranked ProForm Carbon HIIT H7 #11 in May 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
CNET
Best Elliptical for Smaller Spaces
|
Pros
Ideal for small spaces
Quiet
Has iFit membership option
|
Cons
Turning it off can be a challenge
Lacks space for a tablet or other streaming device
|
TopTenReviews
Best Elliptical Machine For Small Spaces
|
Pros
Total-body training
30lb flywheel
Compact
|
We ranked Sunny Fitness SF-E3912 #12 in May 2023 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 Stamina InMotion E1000 #13 in May 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
money.com
Best Under-Desk Elliptical
|
Pros
Very light, portable and easy to store.
|
Cons
No upper-body workout.
|
Forbes
Best Under-Desk Elliptical Machine
|
Pros
Highly portable
Can be used while sitting or standing
|
Cons
Takes awhile to catch your balance when standing
|
We ranked Bowflex Max Total 16 #14 in May 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best Elliptical Trainers” rankings.
CNET
Best elliptical to stream your favorite shows
|
Pros
Fits in most spaces
Has a big HD touchscreen
Lets you stream Netflix, Hulu and other streaming services
Personalizes your workout experience
|
Cons
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
|
Pros
High-intensity training in a compact design.
Textured pedals and multi-grip handles work your entire body.
Free subscription on the 16” touch screen to never get bored while working out.
20 different levels of resistance to adjust and choose from.
|
Cons
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 #15 in May 2023 because:
- 2 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
|
Byrdie
Best for Low Ceilings
|
Pros
Low pedals
Bluetooth speakers
Rapid-charge USB port
|
Cons
Short strides
|