Quick Comparison Table

Gazelle

NordicTrack E

ProForm Smart Strider 735

Nautilus E614

Schwinn 430

Price $ $ $ $ $
Weight 51.9 lbs 200 lbs 190 lbs 167.3 lbs 168.7 lbs
Dimensions 44 x 33.5 x 53.5 in n/a 80 x 32 x 77 in 70 x 28 x 71 in 28 x 68 x 63 in
Warranty 1 year warranty 1 year warranty Lifetime frame warranty 10 year frame warranty, 2 year mechanical warranty and 1 year electrical warranty 10 year frame warranty, 2 year mechanical warranty and 1 year electrical warranty
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Table of Contents

 

1

How to Select the Best Elliptical Machine for the Money?

  • Choosing an elliptical machine that suits your particular needs is a process that requires a lot of thought. Within this buying guide we aim to show you the several different leading options on the market, as well as how to get the best deal in comparison to the features on offer.

    It’s important to find the best elliptical machine for the money that meets your particular needs. Not every elliptical machine will suit every person therefore it’s a matter of ascertaining how much money you are willing to spend in relation to the specs of the machine.

    It also pays to look at each brand, manufacturer and model as a whole. Make comparisons between them to see who is well known for producing quality fitness gear.

  • eliptical machine

 

Fitness Level

  • Are you an athlete or a homeowner looking to get fit? Your fitness level can ultimately determine how to select the best elliptical machine for the money. Are you in need of something to monitor your vitals and performance for later viewing?

    Or are you happy to use the machine in the comfort of your home as a way to keep fit when you can’t get outdoors? Choose the best elliptical machine that suits your fitness level as they aren’t all the same.

  •  

Storage

  • If you are choosing an elliptical trainer for home use, you need to make sure you get one that fits the space you have for it. Many don’t offer easy folding or transporting options, especially those more suited to gym or fitness club environments.

    If you have plenty of room you can opt for the larger options, however if space is an issue, choose the one that can be folded and stored with ease.

  •  

Comfort

  • There could be nothing worse than an elliptical machine that’s not comfortable to use.

    When purchasing online you can read customer reviews to ensure the handles and pedals are comfortable for use over a long period of time.

    Many offer extra support on the handles and extra grip on the pedals.

  •  

Features

  • ​Features vary from one machine to the next, but many offer several convenient features to make the workout so much better. This can include:

    • Adjustable inclines.
    • Smooth elliptical motions.
    • Adjustable resistance.
    • Forward and reverse options.
    • Quiet use.
    • Good electronic systems.

    First you need to decide which features are a ‘must’ and which you can do without. If you’re living in a shared environment, a quiet elliptical machine will be a must. If you’re an athlete, a good electronic system will also be important. You can often get the best deal with the very best features online so it pays to shop around.

  •  

Maintenance

  • Regular maintenance of your elliptical machine can ensure it stands the test of time. The best part about maintaining your elliptical machine is that it doesn’t take a lot of effort!

    • Check all screws to ensure they are tight.
    • Make sure the pedals and handles are secure and stable.
    • Use a damp cloth with natural products to clean the machine – including the handles. Do not use water directly on the machine.
    • Inspect power cords and other components for damage.
    • Every year remove the cover to check the drive belt for any wear.

    Basic maintenance can ensure you are safe on the machine at all times, as well as giving it the best chance to perform as it should for longer.

  •  

Budget

  • If you’re looking for a compact, cardio machine that’s basic in design and style, you won’t need to spend too much. However, if you’re an athlete looking for an intense workout fitness session without the need to head to the gym, you may need to spend a little more.

    It pays to read plenty of reviews and compare options within this buying guide to get the best elliptical machine for the money. The more features you require, generally the more you will need to spend. However, there are plenty of top rated options on the market that you can still get the best deal on.

  •  

2

Elliptical Machine Types


Elliptical Trainer Machines

  • Elliptical trainers are for fitness sessions where you work out your lower body. This cardio machine has foot pedals and stationary handlebars.

    You stand on the pedals and push them to get moving. This cardio machine is a good machine to have in your home or at the gym. It works out your quads, glutes and hamstrings.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They’re a good option for home users.
  • They are generally more compact and easier to store.
  • They are generally cheaper than cross trainers.

Cons:

  • They don’t work the upper body.
  • In order to get a ‘full’ workout you need to purchase other equipment.

Applications

Basic elliptical trainers are the perfect addition to any home gym. They are less suitable to gyms as they don’t have as many features required by professionals and athletes which frequent gyms and fitness clubs.

Maintenance

Elliptical trainers require very basic maintenance on a weekly, monthly and yearly basis. This includes wiping down the bars, pedals and handlebars, checking the electrical cord, tightening any loose screws and checking the drive belt once a year.

Storage

They are small, compact and easy to store. This is because they are more targeted towards homeowners with less space to dedicate to fitness equipment.

Elliptical Cross Trainer Machines

  • The elliptical cross trainer offers more to a user than a standard elliptical trainer. Instead of working just the glutes, hamstrings and quads, they also work your arms and upper body as well. In essence, it works the same way as a standard trainer, except you push and pull on the arms of the machine instead of just using your feet.

    You can also retract and protract your shoulder blades and collarbones to work your back, chest and upper body. It’s a great all-rounder machine for gym settings and in your home.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They provide a good all-round workout.
  • They suit both gyms and homes.
  • They come with many more features than a standard trainer.
  • There are several options on the market for professionals and homeowners.

Cons:

  • They are often more expensive.
  • They take up more room than a standard elliptical trainer.

Applications

Elliptical cross trainers are suitable in both home environments and fitness clubs and gyms. They meet the mark as being able to provide an all-round workout session, as well as being not too big or small. They are the perfect size for a home gym or professional gym.

Maintenance

As with standard elliptical trainers, a cross trainer should be wiped down with natural cleaning products after each use. This includes the bars, handles and pedals. Electrical plugs should also be checked and the cover should be removed to check the underneath components as well.

Storage

Storage of a cross trainer is a little more difficult due to its extending handles. Homeowners should opt for cross trainers that fold down into compact units that can be transported or stored with ease. This is not so necessary in a gym or fitness club setting.

Elliptical Glider Machines

  • Although visibly very similar to elliptical trainers and cross trainers, an elliptical glider provides a very targeted workout. It has stationary handlebars, arms and feet, and its pedals do not move freely. Instead, the pedals move up and down, not in a rotating circle as is common with other elliptical machines. They work the legs very well and you can pedal forwards and backwards. However, you can experience the best workout through forward motion rather than backwards motion. It provides a very limited workout to its users.

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It can often be more affordable than other elliptical machines.
  • If you’re in need of defined workouts for your legs and hips, this machine is perfect.

Cons:

  • It’s limited to just a hip and leg workout.
  • It doesn’t provide the best cardio workout in comparison to other elliptical machines.
  • Most components are stationary which limits your workout capacity.

Applications

These are suited to both gyms and homes, however they are generally purchased by those only interested in a targeted workout. This means they are less likely to be purchased by gyms or fitness clubs.

Maintenance

Every component of this elliptical glider should be wiped down to remove grime and sweat. Electrical plugs, if applicable, should be checked, as well as the belt drive under the cover. Maintenance is very minimal on an elliptical glider.

Storage

Every user has varying space available for the storage of fitness gear. This machine does take up a bit of room but you can always choose a compact glider which can be folded and adjusted to fit into a smaller area.

3

Top 5 Rated Elliptical Machine Reviews


#1 Gazelle

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • You can transition from a walk to a run without sudden movement changes.
  • It’s very affordable.
  • 10 exercises are available in one workout.
  • You’re able to burn a lot of calories.
  • It folds for easy storage.

Cons:

  • It can be wobbly to operate.
  • The pedals are uncomfortable.
  • It squeaks.

What’s included

  • Freestyle step machine.
  • Nutrition guide.
  • Water bottle and holder.
  • 2 workout DVDs.
  • 1 year warranty.

FAQ

QDoes it come pre-assembled?

ANo, you have to assemble it.


QWhat does the monitor on it do?

AIt tracks your heart rate, time, speed and calories.


QCan it be folded for storage?

AYes.

Specs

  • Weight: 51.9 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 44 x 33.5 x 53.5 inches.
  • Warranty: 1 year warranty.

Overview

For the home user in need of an effective and easy workout that doesn’t put pressure on your knees or back, this is the machine for the job. Available on the market with a highly competitive price tag, it’s a popular option for many homeowners. It does require assembly and is known to squeak, but aside from these small negatives it’s easily one of the best elliptical machines for the money. It also offers a monitor and 10 different workouts to see you get the most out of this machine.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Gazelle elliptical machine reviews.

 

#2 NordicTrack E

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It offers 20 different workout options.
  • It has an adjustable incline ramp.
  • It has adjustable stride and resistance levels.
  • The flywheel makes it very quiet to use.
  • It’s perfect for a gym or home environment.

Cons:

  • Its price tag is quite large.
  • It can wobble.
  • The monitor has failed for some users.

What’s included

  • Elliptical trainer.
  • 1 year warranty.

FAQ

QDoes it require assembly?

AYes.


QIs it noisy?

ANo, it’s very quiet.


QIs it compatible with apps?

AYes, the iFit app.

Specs

  • Weight: 200 pounds.
  • Dimensions: N/A.
  • Warranty: 1 year warranty.

Overview

For the professional gym-goer or homeowner, this Nordic Track elliptical machine is a perfect workout provider. It’s lightweight, easy to use and providers operators with an effective workout. It’s also compatible with the iFit app and provides several workouts of varying resistance. You can even adjust the incline and customise your position on the machine to suit. It’s an elliptical machine that has been well thought out to cater to all users. It’s top rated in several reviews, therefore it meets the mark as one of the best elliptical machines for the money.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read NordicTrack E elliptical machine reviews.

 

#3 ProForm Smart Strider 735

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It’s compatible with the iFit app.
  • It’s compatible with iPods for audio.
  • It offers 22 workout apps for variety in your cardio workout.
  • It offers 20 resistance levels.
  • It’s constructed of commercial grade steel.
  • It’s comfortable to use.
  • It’s designed to be easy to store.

Cons:

  • It can be quite noisy to operate even though it’s flywheel operated.
  • It’s not very affordable for homeowners.
  • Some users say it doesn’t feel sturdy.
  • The resistance levels can be unreliable.

What’s included

  • Elliptical trainer.
  • Lifetime frame warranty.

FAQ

QWhat’s the weight limit?

A300 pounds.​


QHow many workouts does it offer?

A22.


QDoes it need power to be used?

AYes.

Specs

  • Weight: 190 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 80 x 32 x 77 inches.
  • Warranty: Lifetime frame warranty.

Overview

For the professional who requires several different options for a varied workout, you will be impressed by what’s on offer. There are 22 workout options to choose from, as well as compatibility with your iPod and iFit app. It can monitor several components of your workout and does so to show your progress over time as well. It can also support up to 300 pounds of weight, making it ideal for those looking to lose weight and get fit. It’s quite expensive to purchase but in comparison to several other elliptical machines it offers far more technologically advanced features.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read ProForm Smart Strider 735 elliptical machine reviews.

 

#4 Nautilus E614

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It offers 13 workouts.
  • You can export data to two compatible apps.
  • It offers 20 levels of resistance.
  • Assembly is easy.
  • It’s compact.
  • It features high specs for convenient and professional workouts.

Cons:

What’s included

  • Elliptical trainer.
  • 10 year frame warranty, 2 year mechanical warranty and 1 year electrical warranty.

FAQ

QWhat’s the weight limit?

A300 pounds.​


QWhat apps is it compatible with?

AMy Fitness Pal and Nautilus Connect.


QDoes it require power?

AYes.

Specs

  • Weight: 167.3 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 70 x 28 x 71 inches.
  • Warranty: 10 year frame warranty, 2 year mechanical warranty and 1 year electrical warranty.

Overview

This indoor elliptical machine is easily one of the best elliptical machines for the money. It features some of the most technologically advanced features, caters to all users of all abilities, and is solid in construction. It has various workout options, many different resistance levels and ensures the user has so many tools at their disposal for a fun and effective workout. It’s even compatible with two apps to ensure you can review your data at a later date. It costs a lot more than some other brands but is well suited to homeowners and gym-goers in need of quality gear for a good workout.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Nautilus E614 elliptical machine reviews.

 

#5 Schwinn 430

 

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • It offers 22 workout programs.
  • You can export data to review it later.
  • It’s very affordable.
  • It has 20 levels of resistance.
  • It’s very quiet to use.
  • It offers goal tracking to keep users pushing harder for longer.

Cons:

  • Some components are poorly made and therefore do not last long.
  • The pulse sensor is not accurate.
  • The calorie measurer is not accurate.
  • Some users note that metal components are poorly made and can bend and snap.

What’s included

  • Elliptical machine.
  • 10 year frame warranty, 2 year mechanical warranty and 1 year electrical warranty.

FAQ

QIs it hard to assemble?

ANot if you follow the instructions.


QDoes it require power for use?

AYes.


QDoes it have a weight limit?

AUsers up to 300 pounds.

Specs

  • Weight: 168.7 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 28 x 68 x 63 inches.
  • Warranty: 10 year frame warranty, 2 year mechanical warranty and 1 year electrical warranty.

Overview

Whether you require a ‘walk in the park’ setting or a ‘run’ setting, this machine caters to you. It’s designed for users who are out of shape and those who are professional athletes. It offers several different workout sessions and resistant levels, as well as allowing users to choose their level of comfort. You can export your data and use apps to track it. Overall this elliptical machine is one that appeals to a wide target market. For this reason, and for its competitive price tag, it’s top rated and is one of the best elliptical machines for the money.

Reviews

Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read Schwinn 430 elliptical machine reviews.

4

FAQs


Where do you buy elliptical machines?

Elliptical machines that provide the best workout are for sale both online and in leading fitness stores. You can get the best deal with added extras online, however. Amazon is generally the best option for purchasing fitness equipment as you’re able to read other customer reviews and get a grasp of who that particular elliptical trainer is best suited for.

What are the leading elliptical machine brands/manufacturers?

  • Schwinn
  • Nautilus
  • ProForm
  • NordicTrack

 

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