December 2024

Elliptical Trainers: MetaRanking

This page highlights the aggregate summary of elliptical trainers rankings posted by key online experts, as of December 2024.

Summary

On 4 Dec 2024, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 76 elliptical trainer endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.

46 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 Dec 2024, Sunny Health 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.

Brand breakdown
Show all brands

Price breakdown
As can be seen in the chart below, lowest high-ranking elliptical trainers start at $107.78 (Stamina InMotion E1000) and go up to $3397 (NordicTrack FS14i). Median elliptical trainer costs $967.66 (Schwinn 430).
$107.78
$3397

At a glance - December Ranking

Scroll horizontally to browse this ranking table
Rank Change Price Elliptical Trainer
Forbes
Chicago Tribune
money.com
TopTenReviews
Woman's World
NBC News
Byrdie
CNET
Treadmill Review Guru
T3
1
- Check price
Sunny Health SF-E905
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Trainer is a budget-friendly and compact option with adjustable resistance levels, a front-drive design, and a solid construction, making it suitable for those looking for a reliable and noise-free workout experience.
2
-
2
-
1
3
2
-
-
-
2
+1 $1500
Sole Fitness E35
The Sole Fitness E35 elliptical trainer is a highly praised and versatile workout machine that offers a range of features, comfort, and durability for individuals looking to improve their fitness levels.
4
-
-
-
-
1
-
-
6
5
3
+1 $1100
Sole Fitness E25
The Sole Fitness E25 elliptical trainer offers a range of workout features, including adjustable resistance and incline options, heart rate monitoring, and a durable build, making it suitable for various fitness goals and preferences.
-
-
1
7
-
-
-
-
4
7
4
-2 $1123
Schwinn 470
The Schwinn 470 Elliptical Trainer is a versatile and feature-rich machine that offers a wide range of workout options, comfortable design, and advanced tracking features, making it a reliable choice for users of different fitness levels and goals.
-
1
-
8
-
6
-
5
-
-
5
- $3397
NordicTrack FS14i
The NordicTrack FS14i Elliptical Trainer is a highly praised machine that offers adjustable resistance, stride length, and incline options, making it ideal for users who want to customize their workouts and target multiple muscle groups.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
1
1
6
- $2739
NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i
The NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i elliptical trainer is a versatile and feature-rich machine that offers a comfortable and immersive workout experience, but its large size may not be suitable for those with limited space.
-
-
-
-
6
2
5
-
7
-
7
- Check price
Bowflex Max Trainer M9
1
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
2
8
- Check price
Bowflex Max Total 16
The Bowflex Max Total 16 elliptical trainer is a highly praised and versatile machine that offers a range of workout features, compact size, adjustable display, comprehensive tracking capabilities, low noise level, and durability, making it an ideal choice for individuals looking to optimize their fitness routines.
-
-
-
-
-
-
3
1
-
-
9
- Check price
ProForm Carbon HIIT H7
The ProForm Carbon HIIT H7 elliptical trainer is a versatile and compact machine that offers a challenging full-body workout with adjustable resistance levels and a unique climbing stride length, while also providing tracking features and a durable construction.
-
-
-
2
-
8
-
3
-
-
10
- $2598
Life Fitness E1 Go
-
-
-
-
-
-
1
-
-
6
11
- Check price
Bowflex Max Trainer M6
The Bowflex Max Trainer M6 is a compact and space-saving elliptical trainer that offers a challenging and efficient workout, with 16 levels of resistance, a fixed stride length, and a range of tracking features.
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3
-
-
8
4
-
-
-
-
12
- $200
Cubii JR1
The Cubii JR1 elliptical trainer is a compact and user-friendly exercise machine that offers a seated workout option, eight resistance levels, a front-drive system for low-impact workouts, a small LCD display screen, basic tracking features, noise reduction capabilities, and a durable construction.
-
5
-
-
-
7
11
-
-
-
13
- $400
Sunny Fitness SF-E3912
The Sunny Fitness SF-E3912 Elliptical Trainer is a versatile and compact exercise machine that offers a customizable and comfortable workout experience, making it ideal for home use in smaller spaces.
-
2
-
4
-
-
-
-
-
-
15
- $2900
ProForm Pro HIIT H14
The ProForm Pro HIIT H14 elliptical trainer is a highly praised machine that offers a wide range of workout features, compact size, clear display, tracking capabilities, low noise level, and durability.
6
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
3
-
16
- $108
Stamina InMotion E1000
The Stamina InMotion E1000 Elliptical Trainer is a compact and portable exercise machine that offers adjustable resistance levels and a durable build, making it suitable for new exercisers and individuals with limited space.
5
-
4
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
17
- Check price
Nautilus E618
The Nautilus E618 Elliptical Trainer is a versatile and durable exercise machine that offers customizable workouts, comfort features, and advanced tracking capabilities, making it suitable for individuals who want a challenging and enjoyable workout experience.
-
-
-
6
-
-
-
4
-
-

Elliptical Trainer
#16 $107.78 Stamina InMotion E1000
#12 $199.99 Cubii JR1
#13 $399.99 Sunny Fitness SF-E3912
#3 $1099.99 Sole Fitness E25
#4 $1123.34 Schwinn 470
#2 $1499.99 Sole Fitness E35
#10 $2598 Life Fitness E1 Go
#6 $2739 NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i
#15 $2899.99 ProForm Pro HIIT H14
#5 $3397 NordicTrack FS14i

We ranked Sunny Health SF-E905 #1 in December 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.
Expert Consensus
(as of 20 Jul 2023)
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Trainer is a budget-friendly and compact option with adjustable resistance levels, a front-drive design, and a solid construction, making it suitable for those looking for a reliable and noise-free workout experience.
Critic endorsements:
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

Go to ranking

money.com

Best for Low Prices

Built-in wheels for easy transportation and storage.

Doesn’t have a reversible stride.

Go to ranking

Woman's World

Best Elliptical Under $200

8 levels of magnetic resistance
Compact
Digital display measures time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse

Go to ranking

NBC News

Best budget elliptical

Great for fitness beginners
Affordably priced

Very basic, no-frills features

Go to ranking

Byrdie

Best Budget

Budget-friendly
Digital display
Pulse sensors

Low weight capacity

Go to ranking

We ranked Sole Fitness E35 #2 in December 2024 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sole Fitness E35 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 13 Jul 2023)
The Sole Fitness E35 elliptical trainer is a highly praised and versatile workout machine that offers a range of features, comfort, and durability for individuals looking to improve their fitness levels.
Critic endorsements:
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

Go to ranking

NBC News

Best overall elliptical

High weight capacity
Heavy-duty steel frame

Large and heavy; difficult to move

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Treadmill Review Guru

Best Elliptical For Home Use

Comfortable design
Excellent build quality
Trainer-led workouts and Netflix
20 levels of incline and 20 levels of resistance
Adjustable pedals
Lifetime warranty
Great for most people

Large and heavy
Fan and speakers are a little underpowered

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

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 December 2024 ranking

We ranked Sole Fitness E25 #3 in December 2024 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sole Fitness E25 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 13 Jul 2023)
The Sole Fitness E25 elliptical trainer offers a range of workout features, including adjustable resistance and incline options, heart rate monitoring, and a durable build, making it suitable for various fitness goals and preferences.
Critic endorsements:
money.com

Editor's Pick

Warranty lasts lifetime on frame and 3 years for parts.

Limited preset workout programs compared to other models.

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

Treadmill Review Guru

Best Budget Elliptical

Excellent value for the price
Adjustable resistance and incline
Onboard workout programs and device rack
Sturdy with a lifetime warranty
Comfortable for smaller users
Compatible with Sole+ app for trainer-led workouts

Speakers are weak
Less tech than others

Go to ranking

T3

Best elliptical trainer for durability

Lifetime guarantee
Gym-like spec

Requires a decent amount of space

Go to ranking

We ranked Schwinn 470 #4 in December 2024 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Schwinn 470 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 13 Jul 2023)
The Schwinn 470 Elliptical Trainer is a versatile and feature-rich machine that offers a wide range of workout options, comfortable design, and advanced tracking features, making it a reliable choice for users of different fitness levels and goals.
Critic endorsements:
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.

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TopTenReviews

A smooth and quiet-running cross trainer from a trusted brand

29-item program menu
Smooth striding
User-friendly LCD

Short labor warranty

Go to ranking

NBC News

Best elliptical for comfort

Plenty of variety in pre-loaded workouts
Front transport wheels

Extensive assembly

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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

Go to ranking

We ranked NordicTrack FS14i #5 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
  • Out of those, 2 experts ranked NordicTrack FS14i as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 Nov 2023)
The NordicTrack FS14i Elliptical Trainer is a highly praised machine that offers adjustable resistance, stride length, and incline options, making it ideal for users who want to customize their workouts and target multiple muscle groups.
Critic endorsements:
Treadmill Review Guru

Best Elliptical Overall

Adjustable pedals for 3-in-1 functionality
Inclines and declines
iFIT subscription on 14” touchscreen
Quiet magnetic resistance
Full-body, low-impact exercise
Effective fan

Pedals require significant space
Full stride might be too long for short users

Go to ranking

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

Go to ranking

We ranked NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i #6 in December 2024 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 21 Jul 2023)
The NordicTrack FreeStrider FS10i elliptical trainer is a versatile and feature-rich machine that offers a comfortable and immersive workout experience, but its large size may not be suitable for those with limited space.
Critic endorsements:
Woman's World

Best NordicTrack elliptical

Automatic trainer control
24 resistance levels
Comes with a 1-year iFit membership

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NBC News

Most Versatile

26 resistance levels
Mimics other cardio machines

Pricier option

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Byrdie

Best Experience

Trainer-led workouts
HD touchscreen
Great sound technology

Assembly could be easier

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Treadmill Review Guru

Best Hybrid Elliptical

Three machines in one
Streaming with iFIT
Resistance and incline
Cushioned pedals
Quick-adjustment buttons
Unique and fun

Pedal movement requires more space cleared
Full stride is long for short users

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We ranked Bowflex Max Trainer M9 #7 in December 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.
Critic endorsements:
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

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T3

Best runner up 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

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We ranked Bowflex Max Total 16 #8 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Bowflex Max Total 16 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 Nov 2023)
The Bowflex Max Total 16 elliptical trainer is a highly praised and versatile machine that offers a range of workout features, compact size, adjustable display, comprehensive tracking capabilities, low noise level, and durability, making it an ideal choice for individuals looking to optimize their fitness routines.
Critic endorsements:
Byrdie

Best Splurge

Free workouts
20 resistance levels
HD touchscreen

Some users claim it's hard to set up

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CNET

Best elliptical overall

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

Go to ranking

We ranked ProForm Carbon HIIT H7 #9 in December 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 21 Jul 2023)
The ProForm Carbon HIIT H7 elliptical trainer is a versatile and compact machine that offers a challenging full-body workout with adjustable resistance levels and a unique climbing stride length, while also providing tracking features and a durable construction.
Critic endorsements:
TopTenReviews

Save on space with this hybrid cross-trainer machine

Total-body training
30lb flywheel
Compact

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NBC News

Best elliptical for small spaces

Can fit into smaller spaces
Very quiet

No tablet stand
Have to unplug to turn off

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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

Go to ranking

We ranked Life Fitness E1 Go #10 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Life Fitness E1 Go as #1.
Critic endorsements:
Byrdie

Best Overall

Comfortable hand grips
Lifetime warranty
Bluetooth compatibility
Connects to Apple Watch

We wish the console had a lifetime warranty

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T3

Best quiet elliptical trainer

Whisper-quiet operation
Swanky data screen
Heart rate monitoring

Can get similar features on cheaper cross trainers

Go to ranking

We ranked Bowflex Max Trainer M6 #11 in December 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 21 Jul 2023)
The Bowflex Max Trainer M6 is a compact and space-saving elliptical trainer that offers a challenging and efficient workout, with 16 levels of resistance, a fixed stride length, and a range of tracking features.
Critic endorsements:
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.

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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

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NBC News

Best elliptical for streaming

Plenty of options for handhold positions
Free app membership

Very basic LCD display

Go to ranking

We ranked Cubii JR1 #12 in December 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 23 Jul 2023)
The Cubii JR1 elliptical trainer is a compact and user-friendly exercise machine that offers a seated workout option, eight resistance levels, a front-drive system for low-impact workouts, a small LCD display screen, basic tracking features, noise reduction capabilities, and a durable construction.
Critic endorsements:
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.

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NBC News

Best under desk elliptical

Size allows it to fit almost anywhere
Easy portability

Less intensive workout than other machines

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Byrdie

Best Under-Desk

Fits under desk
Nonslip mat included
Quiet operation

Low weight capacity

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We ranked Sunny Fitness SF-E3912 #13 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 21 Jul 2023)
The Sunny Fitness SF-E3912 Elliptical Trainer is a versatile and compact exercise machine that offers a customizable and comfortable workout experience, making it ideal for home use in smaller spaces.
Critic endorsements:
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.

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TopTenReviews

Best affordable elliptical machine

High weight capacity
Full-motion arm exercisers
24 unique workout modes

Short 14-inch stride length

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We ranked ProForm Pro HIIT H14 #14 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 9 Nov 2023)
The ProForm Pro HIIT H14 elliptical trainer is a highly praised machine that offers a wide range of workout features, compact size, clear display, tracking capabilities, low noise level, and durability.
Critic endorsements:
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

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Treadmill Review Guru

Best Elliptical For HIIT

Unique and challenging pedal motion
iFIT subscription available
Very quiet
Challenging
More compact than others
Great for HIIT

Weak fan
Different than standard ellipticals

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We ranked Stamina InMotion E1000 #15 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 21 Dec 2023)
The Stamina InMotion E1000 Elliptical Trainer is a compact and portable exercise machine that offers adjustable resistance levels and a durable build, making it suitable for new exercisers and individuals with limited space.
Critic endorsements:
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

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money.com

Best Under-Desk Elliptical

Very light, portable and easy to store.

No upper-body workout.

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We ranked Nautilus E618 #16 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best elliptical trainers” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 21 Jul 2023)
The Nautilus E618 Elliptical Trainer is a versatile and durable exercise machine that offers customizable workouts, comfort features, and advanced tracking capabilities, making it suitable for individuals who want a challenging and enjoyable workout experience.
Critic endorsements:
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

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CNET

Most classic elliptical

Sturdy
Smooth stride
Mostly quiet

Outdated display screen
Bluetooth technology is limited
No Wi-Fi

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