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Going to the gym in the middle of a pandemic is not the safest option for anyone anymore, so in order for me to stay fit and healthy I’ve made up a list of the best elliptical machines for the home this 2021.
It’s been more than a year since the whole world went on lockdown due to the pandemic. We are required to self-quarantine and wear masks to protect ourselves from the virus. Because of this, it became quite difficult having access to our favorite establishments like restaurants, spas, malls, and most especially, the gym. While some of these establishments do work on limited capacity, I personally wouldn’t want to risk myself. To some people, going to the gym is essential to keeping themselves healthy and fit. Some would even find it therapeutic. Some use it as a way to meet like-minded people to share fitness goals and tips with.
Thankfully, home gyms are a thing nowadays and I find that working out at home comes with its own perks. Sure, I won’t get to interact with people but I no longer have to worry about traffic, parking spaces if you have a car, or sweaty gym equipment. Socializing is a small sacrifice I have to make to keep myself in shape and my health on the right track. But how exactly do you choose the best elliptical for you and your home when there are so many options available in the market?
So in light of the current global situation, I’m here to recommend you some of the best elliptical machines you can find for your home this 2021.
My Top Recommendations
1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer with 8 Level Resistance and Digital Monitor
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer is probably the top-rated elliptical machine in Amazon right now. It’s produced by the Sunny Health & Fitness company, a well-known distributor of affordable yet premium fitness products. You can trust that this company will deliver high-quality gym equipment without breaking the bank.
Despite being one of the most affordable elliptical machines in the market, it delivers well and is an overall solid product. It’s highly rated and has some very honest reviews from people who have tried and tested this particular product.
But let’s dive further into why the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer is the best elliptical machine for the home and deserved the top spot on my list.
Great Value For Its Price
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer offers you all the basic needs an elliptical machine can give you at a very affordable price. I’ve mentioned previously that the manufacturer is a popular brand that has been consistently delivering great fitness products without being pricy. The SF-E905 is no exception to that rule.
I understand if some of you might get skeptical as cheaper products tend to have mediocre performance or give a sub-par experience. Most elliptical machines under $200 have a tendency to suffer from such technical problems. These problems can include low-quality materials causing durability issues, weak resistance, unstable build or frames, and etc. But I promise that the SF-E905 will not disappoint in those aspects.
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 is quite practical and perfect for anyone who only needs an elliptical machine for low-impact cardio workouts. It’s an excellent choice if you need something compact as well. In addition, it fits well in smaller spaces without cutting corners on quality.
The SF-E905 features a solid build, 8 levels of magnetic resistance, anti-slip handlebars, a stabilizer, and a digital monitor that displays your time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse. You also get a full-body workout on this elliptical machine as the handles are pushed and pulled in synchronization with the leg movements. This allows you to target multiple parts of your body such as the biceps, triceps, deltoids, lats, lower belly, hips, and thighs.
Product Specifications
Dimensions:
- Height: 57 inches.
- Width: 17 inches.
- Length: 28 inches.
- Weight: 31 kg (68 lbs.)
Features:
- Digital monitor
- Pulse sensors
- 8-level adjustable resistance
- Full motion arm exercisers
- Non-slip foot pedals
- Floor stabilizers
- Transportation wheels
- Weight capacity of 100 kg (220 lbs.)
- Material is made of steel.
Pros
- Affordable and inexpensive price. It’s great for people who have limited funds and don’t want to invest too much money in an elliptical machine.
- Solid and high-quality build.
- Offers 8 levels of adjustable resistance.
- Whisper quiet when being used.
- Checks all the basic features you need in an elliptical machine.
- Mostly positive reviews on Amazon.
- Fairly easy to assemble.
- Great for beginners.
- Compact size.
- It has wheels underneath for easy transportation.
Cons
- Not the most high-tech elliptical machine on this list.
- The unit has no warranties offered.
- Shorter stride length (limited to 13 inches).
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer with 8 Level Resistance and Digital Monitor?
Check Out Our Detailed Review Of The Sunny Health & Fitness SF E905 Here.
2. NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical Trainers
Now if you have the funds to invest in a more premium elliptical machine, the NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical Trainers might just be for you.
NordicTrack is no stranger when it comes to putting out the best and most premium gym equipment for your home in the market. They’ve been doing it for years now! From treadmills, exercise bikes, to elliptical machines, your workouts at home will surely be an elevated experience. What makes their products stand out so much is how much they make sure that your workouts are as personalized to your fitness goals as possible with their iFit programs. So whether you’re a seasoned runner or cyclist or just starting out, NordicTrack will surely have a product for you.
Those reasons are exactly why I placed the NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle high on this list. So what makes this product one of the best elliptical machines for the home this 2021 aside from the reputation it has from its manufacturer?
A Premium Experience For Your At Home Workouts
Firstly, the NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE7i is a compact and foldable trainer. It has one of the smallest sizes for any elliptical machine for your home. In addition, you can also easily fold the unit after use so you get your floor space back. Moreover, the assembly for this unit is probably the easiest on this list as well. The SpaceSaver SE7i gets you ready for your first workout session in about 15 minutes. That’s a huge advantage from other elliptical machines that needs an hour or two of assembling.
Don’t be fooled by this unit’s modest size, though. The SpaceSaver SE7i can easily outperform larger elliptical machines in the market with its innovative and ergonomic features. One of these features is its Vertical SpaceSaver® design. This uses a technology similar to the SNAP assembly system on some of NordicTrack’s more elite elliptical trainers. Due to this design, you can conveniently fold the unit after each workout session. The machine’s size will then reduce to a 32″ x 28″.
Moreover, the SpaceSaver SE7i upgrades your workout sessions to the next level with its impressive iFit programs. These programs allow you access to an interactive experience of various, different workouts to choose from. You also get an iFit trainer that helps you with your workout sessions for optimum results. So whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trainee, you’re sure to find a program to perfectly suit your fitness goals.
Check Out Our Dedicated Review Of The NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE7i Here.
Product Specifications
Dimensions:
- Height: 67 inches.
- Width: 32 inches.
- Length: 80 inches.
- Weight: 98 kg (215 lbs.)
Features:
- 1-month individual membership with their iFit programs.
- 5″ backlit display to easily view and track your important workout metrics and stats.
- AutoBreeze Workout Fan keeps you cool and comfortable through low-impact exercise.
- 22 Digital Resistance Levels. Your iFit trainer can control and adjust this to upgrade your workout sessions.
- Adjustable Power Ramp allows you to train at an incline.
- Adjustable stride up to 18 inches.
- Vertical SpaceSaver Design so you can easily fold and store your elliptical trainer when not in use.
- Upper body grips allow a full-body workout.
- Silent Magnetic Resistance lets you have a quiet workout session.
- Built-in transport wheels.
- A dual 2-inch built-in speaker system allows you to plug in your own device so you can workout to your favorite music.
- The total weight capacity is 147 kg (325 lbs.).
- Material is made of steel.
Pros
- Easy assembly (only takes 15 minutes).
- iFit membership along with an iFit Coach to train you.
- Automated incline to challenge you during workouts.
- 22 resistance levels.
- The AutoBreeze Workout Fan helps you cool down and comfortable.
- Vertical SpaceSaver Design makes the unit compact and easy to store.
- The 5″ backlit display offers you a decent view of your stats during workouts.
- The built-in speakers let you plug in your device so you can workout to your favorite music.
- Warranty for the frame is 10 years, parts have 2 years, labor is 1 year, while also providing a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Cons
- The 18″ stride is mostly suitable for shorter people.
- Resistance isn’t enough for heavier-impact workouts.
- Expensive.
Rating: 9 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical Trainers?
3. Nautilus E618
Out of all the Nautilus Elliptical Series, the Nautilus E618 is the top elliptical machine from the brand. It’s a heavy-duty machine that boasts the best resistance, the longest stride, and can cater to fitness enthusiasts of any level. Unlike the previous models I’ve mentioned, this one is better suited for taller individuals due to its 22″ stride.
The Nautilus E618’s great qualities don’t stop there either. So if you’d like to know more, just keep on reading.
A Heavy-Duty Machine Perfect For Heavy-Duty Trainees
If you’re an athlete or just someone who prefers a heavier cardio workout, the Nautilus E618 is your best bet. Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t opt for this unit even if you like low-impact workouts. This model will still deliver impressively at any level you’re comfortable with.
But what really makes heavier impact cardio activities possible on the Nautilus E618 is the 30-pound flywheel included in its resistance system. Due to that kind of weight, athletes and fitness enthusiasts who prefer intense workouts will find their sessions a lot smoother with this elliptical machine. In addition, the E618 also offers 25 levels of Magnetic Brake Resistance. This allows the user to enjoy their exercise with no friction, minimal maintenance costs, great reliability, and a quiet operation.
I also found the Nautilus E618 quite effective in cardio workout sessions due to its ability to combine my overall body flexibility and coordination into one impact-free motion. On top of that, working the unit doesn’t take a toll on my joints.
If those aren’t enough to convince you that this is one of the best elliptical machines for the home, the E618 also offers 29 workout programs for you. It includes preset programs for a variety of fitness goals intended to cater to your every need.
For assembly and the user manual, you can easily find them here.
Product Specifications
Dimensions:
- Height: 67 inches.
- Width: 27 inches.
- Length: 73 inches.
- Weight: 95 kg (210 lbs.)
Features:
- You get 0-10 inches of incline with a touch of a button.
- Bluetooth connectivity.
- Syncs with Nautilus Trainer 2 App and the RunSocial App allowing you to run through 19 locations with 27 routes alongside people from all over the world in real-time.
- 29 programs for you to choose from as well as customizable weight loss options.
- A wireless heart rate chest strap is included in the package.
- Built-in cooling fan.
- Weight capacity can handle up to 159 kg (350 lbs.)
Pros
- The 22″ stride allows taller trainees to exercise comfortably with the unit.
- The weighted 30-pound flywheel gives you smoother strides.
- Bluetooth connectivity also lets you share your workout stats with other fitness enthusiasts.
- Free wireless heart rate chest strap.
- 29 preset programs are available for you with customization options.
- Includes speakers, a media shelf, an mp3 port, and a USB charging port.
- Warranty is 15 years for the frame, 5 years on mechanical parts, 5 years on electronics, and 2 years on labor.
- They also offer a money-back guarantee within six weeks after purchase.
Cons
- While the 22″ stride is great for taller individuals, shorter people might find a bit of difficulty.
- The front-drive ellipticals tend to require more maintenance compared to rear-drive ellipticals.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Nautilus E618?
4. Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine
Coming in at #4 in The Best Elliptical Machines For The Home 2021 list is the Schwinn 411.
The Schwinn 411 is one of the more affordable choices on this list. It’s manufactured by the Schwinn company who’s known for its popular bicycles but eventually extended their products to other fitness and health equipment. Despite its inexpensive price tag, this unit still performs pretty solidly and stands out among other elliptical machines within its price range. It covers your bases and packed with features such as Bluetooth connectivity, access to the Explore The World app, heart rate monitoring, 16 levels of resistance, a streamlined console displaying your metrics and stats, as well as a media rack and water bottle holder.
While not having a backlit display can be a little underwhelming, the Schwinn 411 does offer a streamlined console. That means it’s been streamlined to only give you the most basic feedback information. Some of you might not mind that, while some might. So this is something to consider. Additionally, it has pretty easy controls as well. A button to start and stop your workout plus 3 more buttons for 13 different workout programs.
But is that enough for the Schwinn 411 to be one of the best elliptical machines for the home this 2021? Let’s find out below.
Practical and Compact
Practicality and compact are the two words I would best describe the Schwinn 411. For several years now, fitness and health companies have been trying to pump out compact elliptical machines for their target market. As you may know, bigger fitness equipment and units are not the most practical. They take up too much floor space and not everyone has a dedicated space or room for a home gym. Aside from that, these machines can be quite taxing to move around and to store to reclaim floor space. More often than not, they are usually just left in living areas when not in use.
That’s why Schwinn came up with the 411. So lack of workout space will no longer be a problem for you. It’s compact enough so their customers don’t have to worry about their fitness equipment taking too much space. While some of you may be concerned that compact elliptical machines mean shorter stride lengths, the Schwinn 411 made sure that it won’t be a problem. Despite being labeled as “compact”, the Schwinn 411 boasts a stride length of 18 inches, making it one of the compact elliptical machines with the longest stride lengths.
So if you’re looking for an entry-level elliptical machine that covers the basics and doesn’t mind sacrificing the high-tech stuff other brands have with their units, then the Schwinn 411 is something you should seriously consider.
Product Specifications
Dimensions:
- Height: 63.1 inches.
- Width: 28.1 inches.
- Length: 70.1 inches.
- Weight: 46 kg (101 lbs.)
Features:
- 18″ stride length.
- Bluetooth connectivity.
- Wireless heart rate monitoring.
- 13 programs to choose from.
- Access to the RunSocial and Explore The World app.
- 16 levels of resistance.
- Media rack and a water bottle holder.
- Weight capacity: 136 kg (300 lbs.).
Pros
- Affordable
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Offers a decent amount of fitness programs for its price.
- It has wireless heart rate monitoring.
- High-quality and stable build.
- Has 16 levels of smooth and quiet magnetic resistance.
- Excellent warranty. The frame has a warranty of 10 years, parts have 2 years, electronics have 1 year, and labor is 90 days.
- Little maintenance required.
- Easy assembly.
Cons
- No incline
- No backlit display
- Limited resistance levels
- The 18″ stride length might not work for taller people.
Rating: 7.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine?
5. Bowflex Max Trainer M3
The next on our Best Elliptical Machines For The Home 2021 list is the Bowflex Max Trainer M3. It’s widely known as the entry-level and most affordable unit for the Max Trainer line.
Despite being a tiny bit inferior to its premium counterparts, the M3 still packs a solid punch when it comes to its other competitions in the market. In addition, it’s also priced at a great value. Definitely one of my top choices on this list.
A Unique Design Made To Burn Those Calories Efficiently
An impressive feature of the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 is its no-impact design. This kind of feature significantly decreases your risk of injury compared to other fitness equipment. This also means that the M3 is gentle on your joints while helping you exercise and work out more intensely.
Another noteworthy feature of the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 is how they did not disregard upper body workouts. With most elliptical machines in the market, you get very minimal upper body exercise. But with the M3, you’re sure to get better arm exercises. At this rate, you burn calories a lot quicker and get your desired results just as fast.
That feature alone gives the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 a spot on my Best Elliptical Machines For The Home 2021 list.
Product Specifications
Dimensions:
- Height: 63 inches.
- Width: 25 inches.
- Length: 46 inches.
- Weight: 65 kg (143 lbs.).
Features:
- No-impact design.
- 8 levels of resistance.
- Includes a free wireless heart rate chest strap.
- Dual user profiles.
- 2 workout programs.
- Water bottle holder.
- Media shelf/tablet holder.
- Grey backlit LCD.
- Maximum user weight: 136 kg (300 lbs.).
Pros
- The zero-impact design lets you focus on more intense workout sessions without the risk of injury.
- Compact and doesn’t take up a lot of space.
- Includes a heart rate monitoring system.
- The unique design allows you to burn more calories in an efficient manner.
- You can get better upper body workouts with this unit compared to other elliptical machines.
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity.
- Only has 8 resistance levels. This is pretty limited compared to others in the market that has double the amount of resistance levels.
- Full coverage warranty only lasts a year.
- No built-in speakers.
- You only get 2 workout programs.
Rating: 8 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Bowflex Max Trainer M3?
6. Body Rider BRT5800, 3-in-1 Trio Trainer Workout Machine
The Body Rider BRT5800 got a spot in our Best Elliptical Machines For The Home 2021 list due to its impressive versatility. It’s a multifunctional elliptical machine that can be changed alternately into an upright bike or a recumbent bike. Hence its name, 3-in-1 Trio Trainer Workout Machine.
This 3-in-1 unit is perfect for people who like to change up their workout routines. So whether you’re in the mood for an intense cycling session or low-impact cardio with the elliptical, this is the fitness equipment for you. Not to mention, you can easily save up space and time in your house with this unit as it can already act as your personal mini home gym.
Product Specifications
Dimensions:
- Height: 63 inches.
- Width: 25 inches.
- Length: 52 inches.
- Weight: 41 kg (90.3 lbs.)
Features:
- Multifunctional 3-in-1 design. It can act as an elliptical unit, an upright bike, or a recumbent bike.
- 3 different sets of integrated handlebars.
- Smooth-encased magnetic flywheel with programmable exercise console.
- Heart rate monitor.
- Offers 21 training programs.
- Has a stride length of 21 inches.
- Motorized magnetic resistance.
- Basic LCD.
- Weight capacity is 136 kg or 300 lbs.
Pros
- Ergonomic design.
- Multifunctional as it can act as 3 different fitness equipment.
- Doesn’t take up a lot of space in your house.
- Gives the user a generous stride of 21 inches.
- Offers 21 workout programs.
- Affordable and great for its price and value.
Cons
- LCD is pretty basic and small.
- No incline.
- Heart monitor can sometimes be inaccurate.
- Short warranty.
Rating: 7.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Body Rider BRT5800, 3-in-1 Trio Trainer Workout Machine?
7. Life Fitness Club Series Cross-Trainer
The last product in this list needs no introduction. The Life Fitness Club Series Cross-Trainer is Life Fitness‘ latest home version of their most popular commercial elliptical machine.
It’s undoubtedly the most expensive unit in my list of the Best Elliptical Machines For The Home 2021. As a result, it’s definitely not for everyone. But their amazing build and quality are just some of the reasons why Life Fitness is the most popular go-to brand among several fitness clubs.
However, there are tons of cheaper options in the market. Some of them already listed here in this list as well. Some of them also have features that the Life Fitness Club Series Cross-Trainer may lack.
If money is no object to you, this is a serious, heavy-duty unit you should consider investing in. Built with the same quality and durability Life Fitness is well known for at the commercial level, it’s safe to say that you will be getting your money’s worth with this elliptical machine.
Product Specifications
Dimensions:
- Height: 61 inches.
- Width: 28 inches.
- Length: 83 inches.
- Weight: 106 kg (233.69 lbs.)
Features:
- 20-inch stride length.
- Whisper-quiet operation.
- Has a 7-inch touchscreen display.
- Bluetooth connectivity.
- Heart-rate controlled workouts.
- Wireless heart rate monitoring with the chest strap included.
- Rear-drive design.
- 20 levels of resistance.
- You get 10 pre-programmed workouts and a manual mode.
- Oversized Flexform pedals.
- Moving and static handgrips.
- Max weight capacity is 159 kg or 350 lbs.
Pros
- Commercial quality. It’s almost as if you’re using a high-quality elliptical unit you usually see in fitness clubs.
- Great durability and stability.
- Rear-drive design.
- Wireless heart rate monitoring,
- Bluetooth connectivity.
- Impressive biomechanics.
- The stride length is a comfortable 20 inches.
Cons
- Expensive.
- Unit doesn’t include a cooling fan.
- Its rear-drive design tend to take up too much space. Not great for smaller rooms or spaces.
- No transportation wheels.
- Not the most adjustable or customizable elliptical machine.
- Poor warranty.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Where Can I Buy The Life Fitness Club Series Cross-Trainer?
Things To Consider
Now that I’ve covered the best options for an elliptical machine for your home, let’s take a moment to consider a few things before you make that final purchase.
Stride Length
Your chosen elliptical unit’s stride length will highly depend on your height. So make sure that you know how many inches of stride length you’re comfortable with before making any investments on an elliptical machine.
Size
Not everyone can afford to spare a lot of space for a dedicated home gym. So it’s important to consider an elliptical machine depending on how much spare space you have in your home. Ideally, a compact elliptical trainer will be perfect for smaller houses or apartments. Fortunately for you, if this is your case, there are a few compact and even foldable units included in my list above.
Stability and Build
This is probably one of the most important features you need to consider before purchasing an elliptical trainer for your home. You have to make sure that the unit you’re getting is stable and durable enough to last you throughout the years. Moreover, you also have to check if the elliptical machines you’re eyeing are made for heavier and intense workouts or for more casual low impact routines. One way of knowing if a unit has great durability is checking the flywheel weight. The heavier it is, the more stable the machine is.
Fitness Goals
Last but not the least, you have to consider what your fitness goals are when it comes to finding the best elliptical machine for you. This will determine whether you want a unit that can handle more intense and intensive workouts or just low impact or casual cardio exercises.
Final Words
When I made this list of the best elliptical machines for the home this 2021, I considered a lot of things. For an elliptical machine to be considered one of the best, they needed to check all the right boxes in my criteria. Luckily, every elliptical unit listed above does. Each product definitely has its own perks and benefits, some standing out more than the others. It’s just up to you which ones you prefer and are willing to invest in.
Overall, if you’re someone who likes to work up a sweat but doesn’t want a too rigorous routine, an elliptical machine is a great addition to your home gym. It’s great for cardio workouts and versatile enough for a full-body workout. Once you’ve chosen the best elliptical machine for yourself, it will surely work wonders on your health and path to staying fit.
If you already own an elliptical machine or my list has convinced you to purchase one, let me know your experiences below in the comment section. I’d love to know your thoughts!
Recommended reading for you:
Buy The Right Elliptical Machine For Your Home: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide
NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i Review: The Best Compact Elliptical Trainer?
Sunny Health & Fitness SF E905 Review: The Best Affordable Elliptical Trainer?
