Best Budget Elliptical Machines - Don't Compromise On Quality
Buy a Great Elliptical Machine Without Breaking Your Bank. Check our picks 1. Stamina 2. Body Rider 3. Sunny Health & Fitness 4. Body Power
Although many people have returned to the gym this summer, others have spent the past two years perfecting home gyms and refuse to separate from them so quickly. We’ve consulted with experts to find great additions like treadmills, stationary bikes, and indoor rowers.
If you’re looking for an at-home cardio workout and aren’t sure which machine to buy — or you already have the devices mentioned and want to add to your collection — you may want to consider the elliptical. Using an elliptical offers a low-impact workout that experts told us puts less stress on your bones compared to other workout machines.
Buyers Guide
Best Budget Elliptical Machines
Elliptical machines are a popular choice for those looking to improve their cardiovascular health, build strength, and lose weight, all while minimizing the impact on their joints. However, finding a budget-friendly elliptical machine that doesn’t compromise on quality can be a challenge. This guide will help you navigate the options available in the USA, ensuring you get the best value for your money.
1. Understand Your Needs and Space
Before you start shopping, consider the following:
- Usage Frequency: How often do you plan to use the elliptical? Daily, weekly, or occasionally?
- User Height and Weight: Ensure the machine can accommodate all potential users.
- Space: Measure the area where you plan to place the elliptical. Compact models are available for smaller spaces.
2. Set a Budget
Determine how much you are willing to spend. Budget elliptical machines typically range from $200 to $600. Keep in mind that while higher-priced models often offer more features and better build quality, there are plenty of excellent options within the budget range.
3. Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a budget elliptical, consider the following essential features:
- Resistance Levels: Look for machines with multiple resistance levels to adjust the intensity of your workouts.
- Stride Length: A stride length of 18 to 20 inches is suitable for most users. Shorter stride lengths may be uncomfortable for taller individuals.
- Flywheel Weight: Heavier flywheels (15-20 lbs) provide smoother and quieter operation.
- Incline Options: Adjustable incline adds variety to your workouts and targets different muscle groups.
- Console and Display: A clear display showing time, distance, speed, calories burned, and heart rate is essential.
- Pre-set Programs: Built-in workout programs can help you achieve your fitness goals more efficiently.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Handgrip sensors or wireless chest strap compatibility for heart rate monitoring.
4. Build Quality and Durability
Check for sturdy construction and durable materials. Look for:
- Frame Material: Steel frames are more durable than plastic.
- Maximum User Weight: Higher weight capacity often indicates better build quality. Aim for at least a 250 lbs capacity.
5. Warranty and Customer Support
A good warranty is a sign of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Look for:
- Frame Warranty: At least 1-3 years.
- Parts and Labor Warranty: At least 90 days to 1 year.
- Customer Support: Check reviews for the manufacturer's customer service reputation.
6. Read Reviews and Ratings
Before making a purchase, read customer reviews and ratings on websites like Amazon, Walmart, and manufacturer websites. Pay attention to:
- Common Issues: Look for recurring problems mentioned by multiple users.
- Positive Feedback: Note features that users particularly appreciate.
7. Test Before You Buy (If Possible)
If you have the opportunity, visit a store to try out different models. Testing an elliptical can help you gauge its comfort, noise level, and ease of use.
8. Purchase and Assemble
Once you've selected the right elliptical, check if assembly services are available or if the machine requires self-assembly. Read the instructions carefully and ensure all parts are included.
9. Maintain Your Elliptical
Regular maintenance will extend the life of your machine. Keep it clean, check for loose bolts, and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.
Finding the best budget elliptical machine involves understanding your fitness needs, setting a realistic budget, and knowing which features to prioritize. By considering build quality, warranty, customer reviews, and testing options, you can find a machine that offers great value and helps you achieve your fitness goals. Happy shopping and even happier workouts!
Our Picks
Stamina 55-1602 Inmotion Elliptical
Stamina Elliptical Specifications
- Dimensions: 20 x 13 x 12.5 inches
- Item Weight: 24 Pounds
- Material: Sturdy Steel
- Resistance Mechanism: Manual
- Max Weight: 250 Pounds
- Display Type: No
Why We Love Stamina Elliptical
The Stamina 55-1602 Inmotion Elliptical is perfect for any fitness enthusiast.
Looking for an affordable way to stay fit while sitting at a desk all day? This 55-1602 Inmotion Elliptical by home fitness brand Stamina lets you pedal while sitting at your desk.
It’s compact, lightweight, and quiet, making it a great option for continuous use underneath your at-home workstation. The device includes an adjustable dial that controls resistance levels and a display that keeps track of exercise time, calories burned, and the number of strides per minute.
What You Should Know About Stamina Elliptical
Sure you want to be physically fit and healthy, but finding time for a thoroughly effective cardiovascular workout is just plain difficult with your schedule. Besides, you can always get back in shape once you have enough space for a full-size elliptical machine or treadmill.
It's time to leave excuses behind along with any oversized clothing those excuses have earned you. The incredibly compact, portable, and affordable elliptical machine lets you conveniently work up a healthy sweat nearly anywhere, anytime.
Ever wonder why elliptical machines are so often occupied at the gym? Elliptical trainer workouts are proven to burn a similar number of calories as jogging does, efficiently increasing stamina and energy while toning your hips, buttocks, thighs, and legs.
Unlike jogging, however, ellipticals help you reach your fitness and weight loss goals through a low-impact routine that won't jar your back, knees, hips, or ankles. It's compact and lightweight enough to take anywhere, so you can fit your cardio workout into your daily schedule with no problem.
With non-slip pedals that hold your feet in place without a second thought, you can enjoy low-impact, joint-friendly exercise while your mind is focused on work. Store it out of sight and out of the way - under your desk or in the closet.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- Is designed for easy portability and complete convenience
- Starts clunking after sitting for a few minutes
- Perfect Size for apartment or office under desk
- It is easy to assemble because of well-written instructions
Under Desk Elliptical Machine
Why We Love Under Desk Elliptical Machine
- Affordability: Under-desk elliptical machines are generally much more affordable than full-sized ellipticals, making them an excellent choice for those on a budget.
- Compact and Space-Saving: These machines are designed to fit under a desk, making them ideal for small apartments or home offices where space is limited.
- Convenience: They allow you to exercise while working, reading, or watching TV, seamlessly integrating physical activity into your daily routine.
- Low-Impact Workout: Under-desk ellipticals provide a low-impact workout that is gentle on the joints, making them suitable for people of all fitness levels, including those with joint issues.
- Improves Circulation: Regular use can improve circulation, reduce the risk of sedentary-related health issues, and help you stay more active throughout the day.
- Quiet Operation: Many models operate quietly, ensuring that you can use them without disturbing others in your household or workspace.
- Easy to Use: These machines are straightforward and user-friendly, often requiring minimal setup and maintenance.
- Portable: Their lightweight and compact design makes them easy to move and store when not in use.
- Versatility: Many under-desk ellipticals come with adjustable resistance levels, allowing you to customize the intensity of your workout.
- Boosts Productivity: Incorporating light exercise into your workday can boost energy levels, improve focus, and enhance overall productivity.
What You Should Know About Under Desk Elliptical Machines
While under-desk elliptical machines offer a convenient way to stay active while working, there are a few points of concern to keep in mind:
- Limited Range of Motion: Due to their compact design, under-desk ellipticals often have a smaller range of motion compared to full-sized machines, which may limit the effectiveness of your workout.
- Stability Issues: Some users may find these machines less stable, particularly on certain types of flooring, which can lead to an uncomfortable and less effective workout.
- Lower Resistance Levels: Many affordable under-desk ellipticals offer limited resistance settings, which might not provide a challenging workout for those looking to build strength or significantly improve cardiovascular health.
- Posture Concerns: Using an elliptical under a desk can sometimes encourage poor posture, especially if the desk height and chair position are not properly adjusted, potentially leading to back or neck strain over time.
- Limited Features: Budget models often come with fewer features such as preset workout programs, advanced tracking metrics, or connectivity options, which can reduce the overall workout experience and motivation.
Sunny Essentials Series Elliptical
Specifications
- Dimensions: 28 x 17 x 57 inches
- Item Weight: 60.3 Pounds
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Resistance Mechanism: Manual
- Max Weight: 220 Pounds
- Display Type: 13"
Why We Love It
The Sunny Essentials Series Elliptical is perfect for any fitness enthusiast. Stride along with Sunny Health & Fitness expert trainers on the Sunny Health & Fitness SunnyFit APP. Connect your preferred mobile device through Bluetooth and view your performance metrics in real time.
The all-new SunnyFit APP takes your Sunny workouts to the next level! View your live metrics displayed in real-time as you tour the world with real location maps. Get the results you want with customized workout plans. Explore 100+ workout videos that fit your schedule and goals. Compare your results on the elliptical leaderboard, share your fitness experiences, get workout tips, and much more!
Keeping track of your fitness results is essential for any exercise routine. The standalone digital monitor displays: Calories, Distance, Odometer, Pulse, Speed, Time, and Scan.
What You Should Know
Choose between 8 levels of magnetic resistance using the tension knob to provide multi-variable levels of resistance to your workout or fitness lessons. The bidirectional 11-inch stride length provides the Essential Interactive Series Elliptical machine with an optimal and efficient striding motion.
In tight spaces, you can tilt and roll away for easy storage with convenient transport wheels allowing easy movement of equipment. Monitor your cardiovascular performance with the built-in pulse-sensing grips so you can actively check your workout progress, displayed on the digital monitor or the SunnyFit APP.
Ride along with our Sunny Health & Fitness trainers using your phone, tablet, or any other mobile device of your choice!
Points to Consider Before Purchasing
- Good price in this range of elliptical
- Helpful to work out at home
- Compact Size to fit anywhere
- Easy to assemble because of well-written instructions
Body Power 3-in-1 Exercise Machine
Body Power 3-in-1 Specifications
- Dimensions: 43.7"D x 62.2"W x 29.13"H
- Item Weight: 71.65 Pounds
- Material: Plastic, Other
- Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
- Max Weight: 250 Pounds
- Display Type: 3"
Why We Love Body Power
The Body Power 3-in-1 Exercise Machine is perfect for any fitness enthusiast.
The Body Power Exercise Machine can serve as an elliptical, an upright bike, or a recumbent bike for a varied cardio workout. There are three integrated handlebar options to use based on the exercise method you choose.
U-shaped with a built-in heart rate monitor system, moving elliptical style, and a wraparound style for a reclined seat. To transition to more challenging workouts, the resistance level can be adjusted using a handy dial knob without having to dismount.
However, the stride of this machine is 13.5 inches according to its manufacturer. This means it may be uncomfortable for users with longer legs, who won’t be able to stretch them like they might on a machine with a longer stride. It has a 4.1-star average rating from around 1,000 customer reviews.
What You Should Know About Body Power
Save space and get a killer workout with the body power 3-in-1 Trio trainer from Body Flex Sports. This compact trainer can be used as an elliptical, upright bike, and also recumbent bike. Its resistance can be adjusted magnetically, so it's easy to get the workout you need.
Simple Electronic Computer Console to track your: Calories Burned / Time / Speed / Distance. Save space and get a killer workout with the Body Power 3-in-1 Trio Trainer. This compact trainer can be used as an elliptical, an upright bike, and a recumbent bike.
Each of the exercises possible with this unique machine is low-impact, making it perfect for people with painful joints. Its resistance can be adjusted magnetically, so it’s easy to get the workout you need. To switch exercises, simply adjust hand positioning or stand to tone different parts of the body.
Points to Consider Before Purchasing Body Power
- Ergonomic design bike seat
- Integrated heart rate sensor with simple easy to use computer console
- Transport Wheels for easy storage with a patent 3-in-1 Design for the best value!
- Easy to assemble with a user-friendly design
Best Budget Elliptical Machine FAQs
With so many famous brands and so many models available on the market decide which is best for you. Our comprehensive buyer's guide with frequently asked questions helps you choose the best ellipticals that are affordable and fulfill your needs. This guide will help you understand what to look for when choosing the best ones.
Here are some of the common frequently asked questions about Budget Ellipticals.
Q: Are ellipticals worth the money?
Answer: In short, yes. Ellipticals have enough going for them that they can be considered a good form of exercise. There are a few reasons for this. The first is that joint pain is such a common experience, and ellipticals are one of the only non-impact forms of cardio exercise.
Q: What happens if I do elliptical every day?
Answer: Including the elliptical machine in your fitness routine can help strengthen your heart, lungs, and muscles, all while boosting your stamina, improving your balance, and burning a lot of calories. It's also a great option if you have joint issues or want to build or maintain your fitness after an injury.
Q: Can elliptical burn belly fat?
Answer: Elliptical trainers can help burn calories, reduce belly fat, and tone the body. When used properly, an elliptical trainer works the entire body and can engage the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, chest, back, triceps, and biceps.
Q: Are ellipticals good for the knees?
Answer: Studies show low-impact cardio workouts, like on elliptical machines, can increase blood flow to knee cartilage and strengthen the muscles around the knee. This helps keep your knee joints healthy, particularly if you suffer from arthritic knees.
Q: Is the elliptical better than the treadmill?
Answer: Which machine is a better option depends on your individual needs. If you have a musculoskeletal condition or are injury-prone, you may want to stick with the elliptical. If you want to burn a lot of calories and build up leg strength and speed, the treadmill may be a better choice.
Q: Is elliptical better than cycling?
Answer: When used at high intensity, a stationary bike burns slightly more calories than the elliptical, potentially making it a better choice for those trying to lose weight. The elliptical, however, helps strengthen both your upper and lower body.
Q: Which is better front or rear elliptical?
Answer: Having a flatter movement pattern gives rear drive ellipticals a more natural feel. Users report they feel more upright and don't feel as if they have to lean forward as many do with front-drive ellipticals. This isn't a given, but many rear-drive machines also offer longer stride lengths than front-drive ellipticals.
Q: Is elliptical better than walking?
Answer: You burn more calories on an elliptical machine. An average (160 lb. person) someone exercising for an hour on an elliptical machine burns 365 calories compared to 314 calories burned while walking. An elliptical machine puts far less stress on the hips and knee joints.
Q: What do 30 minutes on the elliptical do?
Answer: 30 minutes on the elliptical per day will burn an average of 335 calories, according to Harvard Health Publishing. Elliptical workouts are a great form of exercise because they offer weight-bearing movement with less impact on the joints than running. And there are many more reasons, including significant health gains.
Q: Are 20 minutes of elliptical enough?
Answer: Tip. An elliptical trainer is a fantastic form of cardiovascular exercise. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity or 15 minutes of vigorous-intensity per day for health benefits.
Best Recommendation For You
If you already have Sunny Health & Fitness or are looking for something with more bells and whistles, check out our other top picks. Stamina, & Body Power can also help you fulfill your needs and help you make a progressive day.
Happy Shopping!