Best Elliptical Trainers Under $1000
Are you looking to introduce a low impact fitness machine to your home gym? Or Do you want to add some variety in your cardio workout? An elliptical machine might be suitable in any of the situations.
It’s inexpensive, consumes less open space, and is productive for your fitness standards. So, let’s take a look at some of the best elliptical machines under 1000, and then you can choose one according to the requirements and fitness goals.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Best Elliptical Trainers in 2023
| Name | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Nautilus Elliptical | • Weight capacity: 300 pounds • Movement: Smooth • Stride length: 20 inches | Check Price |
| ProForm Cardio Elliptical | • Weight capacity: 325 pounds • Movement: smooth • Incline: Yes | Check Price |
| ProForm PFEL55916 | • Weight capacity: 300 pounds • Incline: Yes • Stride length: 19 inches | Check Price |
| NordicTrack Elliptical | • Weight capacity: 325 pounds • Incline: Yes • Stride length: 18 inches | Check Price |
| Nautilus Elliptical E618 | • Weight capacity: 350 pounds • Incline: Yes • Stride length: 22 inches | Check Price |
| Schwinn Elliptical | • Weight capacity: 300 pounds • Incline: Yes • Stride length: 20 inches | Check Price |
| Teeter Elliptical | • Weight capacity: 300 pounds • Incline: NA • Stride length: 18 inches | Check Price |
| Horizon Elliptical | • Weight capacity: 275 pounds • Incline: NA • Stride length: 18 inches | Check Price |
| Bowflex M3 Max Trainer | • Weight capacity: 300 pounds • Incline: NA • Stride length: NA | Check Price |
| Sunny Health & Fitness Elliptical | • Weight capacity: 300 pounds • Incline: NA • Stride length: 19.5 inches | Check Price |
Here are the Top 10 Best Elliptical Under 1000 Reviews in 2023
1. Nautilus Elliptical Trainer Series
Specifications:
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Incline: Yes
- Stride length: 20 inches
Nautilus is a big and reputable brand in the fitness industry. So, it’s not a surprise that one of their products is ruling the elliptical training machine’s market.
Nautilus Elliptical Trainer E616 is the best rated elliptical under 1000 because of its sturdy built, perimeter weighted flywheel, 20-inch Precision Path stride, and dual-track LCDs. It gives you a smooth and noiseless ride that’s never going to disturb anyone in your residence.
E616 has a productive combination of extra-large pedals and padded handlebars, which provides you a low impact training sessions. Apart from a comfortable workout, the elliptical trainer induces your sweating ability via its 25 levels of resistance and motorized incline.
To enhance its value, there are 29 embedded workout programs. There is a USB charging port to charge any of your media devices and an inbuilt cooling fan to maintain the comfort level.
You will like its Bluetooth connectivity because it allows you to listen to your favorite tracks. Using the same interface, you can also track and monitor workout progresses using smartphone-based tools like Explore the World, UA Record, MyFitnessPal, and many more.
The next interesting feature is its media shelf that allows you to watch videos on a tablet or smartphone.
The included workout programs suit beginners and experts alike because there are helpful regimes to improve your heart rate.
It also has a fitness test, quick start guide, recovery test, and 4 custom programs that you can set according to your workout goals.
Key Features
- Real-time sync using RunSocial app
- Smooth movement
- Bluetooth interface and dual displays
Pros
- Solid built and performance-oriented product
- 25 resistance levels for variable workouts
- Motorized incline
- Liberal 20-inch stride length
- Ergonomic built for comfortable workouts
Cons
- Old fashioned LCDs
Reasons to buy
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Ergonomic handlebars to support any of the workout postures
- Inbuilt speakers and headphone port
2. ProForm Cardio HIIT Elliptical Trainer
Specifications:
- Weight capacity: 325 pounds
- Incline: Yes
- Stride length: 10″ Vertical and 5″ Horizontal
ProForm HIIT Elliptical Trainer is a hybrid machine that provides you the benefits of both steppers as well as elliptical.
Its paddle and handlebars burn more calories in combination when you compare the results with either a stepper or elliptical. The primary reason is its movement, which challenges both your lower and upper body parts.
Unlike other hybrids or elliptical machines, the HIIT boosts your calories burn because it offers a punch like motion for your hands.
Then, its 10-inch vertical climbing path mimics stair climbing and increases the calorie loss. So, the HIIT machine is not only effective on your arms and legs but also strengthens your shoulders and back at the same time due to its movement.
HIIT Elliptical Trainer features an SMR Silent Magnetic Resistance, which is durable, smooth, and noiseless. So, you enjoy an efficient workout every day without disturbing anyone in your house.
It comes with a 7-inch backlit display that shares your workout stats. The display is compatible with iFit, which is included with the machine as a 30-days trial.
You never have to leave the paddles while training on the HIIT hybrid, which means it makes minimal impacts on your joints.
If you want to enjoy a zero-damage fitness machine that can be easy on the body, then the ProForm HIIT is the best home elliptical under 1000.
Key Features
- Maximum weight capacity is 325 pounds
- 10 years of frame warranty
- Inbuilt tablet holder
- Advanced flywheel for smooth movement
Pros
- Offers whole body workout
- Noiseless magnetic resistance
- 24 digital resistance levels
- Compact and suitable for small living area
- Makes minimal impacts on the joints
Cons
- iFit requires a subscription after 30 days
Reasons to buy
- Sold steel construction for longevity
- The 10-inch vertical elliptical path
- 7-inch backlit display
- Oversized pedals with a cushioned surface
3. ProForm PFEL55916 Elliptical Machine
Specifications:
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Incline: Yes
Stride length: 19 inches
ProForm Endurance 520E Elliptical is one of the best elliptical machines under 1000 because it’s loaded with all those features that you cannot expect at this price tag.
It’s the reason why this model gets the third spot on today’s list. Its first helpful component is a 19-inch stride length, which has a manual incline up to 20 degrees.
With the increase in incline, you will notice your muscles are working in a slightly different way. So, if you want a better metabolism and effective weight management, then ProForm Endurance 520E might be a suitable investment.
The ProForm elliptical is iFit enabled and has an adjustable inbuilt tablet holder. iFit is a subscription-based service that gives you access to unlimited workout videos and training programs.
Its tablet holder gives you a chance to combine entertainment with your training session, wherein you can watch videos or listen to the songs while losing some weight.
In addition to the iFit compatibility, this elliptical is equipped with 18 workout apps that help both beginners and experts to work out according to their fitness goals.
It also has 18 resistance levels that you can use to change the workout intensity. A 5-inch backlit display shows you the workout stats as well as progress.
Key Features
- 19-inch stride length
- 18 resistance levels
- Maximum weight capacity is 300 pounds
- EKG heart rate monitor
- Integrated workout apps
Pros
- High quality built at an affordable price
- Inertia Enhanced flywheel for an effective workout
- iFit enabled and also gives you work out apps to follow
- Adjustable pedals that accommodate all the users
Cons
- Manual incline
Reasons to buy
- Commercial quality built that works for long without looking for repairs
- Water bottle holder to take care of your hydration level
- Transportation wheels for easy movement
4. NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical Trainer
Specifications:
- Weight capacity: 325 pounds
- Incline: Yes
- Stride length: 18 inches
As it’s clear from the name, the NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i is a compact elliptical trainer that has one of the smallest footprints in this category. Moreover, you can get the machine ready within 15 minutes for its first usage, unlike other elliptical trainers that might need up to two hours for setup.
Don’t get disguised by its small size because Spacesaver boasts a bunch of features to provide you with power-packed workout sessions.
Let’s start with its natural stride worth 18 inches, which keeps you comfortable and never makes much impact on your joints.
Then, the machine has a motorized incline up to 10 degrees that’s useful when you are in a mood to practice some intense workouts. SE7i equips 24 workout programs that help you as a beginner and guides when you are an expert.
NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i has a rear-drive motor that combines with its 18-pounds flywheel to deliver a quiet and smooth ride.
The machine has 22 levels of resistance that changes the workout intensity according to your preferences. Moreover, its cushioned pedals keep you comfortable all the time while you lose some calories.
Key Features
- 5-inch backlit display
- 24 inbuilt workout programs designed by certified professionals
- iFit compatibility to give you access to unlimited workout assistance
- Integrated AutoBreeze workout fan
Pros
- Built to last without seeking repairs or part replacement
- Foldable and hence easy to store
- Workout programs to keep you on the schedule
- Power adjustable incline for an uninterrupted workout
Cons
- Average built quality
Reasons to buy
- Compact and easy to store even in small houses
- Magnetic resistance for a nearly silent workout
- EKG grip Pulse to keep you informed about the pulse
5. Nautilus Elliptical Trainer E618
Specifications:
- Weight capacity: 350 pounds
- Incline: Yes
- Stride length: 22 inches
Nautilus Elliptical Trainer E618 is another high rated fitness machine in the Nautilus Elliptical series. This fine piece of equipment has a stride length of 22 inches, but it never occupies much space due to an upfront flywheel.
One of the best features is its 25 resistance levels, which is the maximum you can expect at this price range. As it offers a wide range of workout intensities, the home trainer is suitable for beginners and experts alike.
Working out on elliptical targets different parts of your body. To help you even more in body toning, weight management, and strength training, E618 integrates 29 customizable workout programs.
Talking about the comfort, E618 has soft handlebars that provide you with a soft grip. So, you can work out in multiple ways for prolonged hours without much strain in your wrists.
Apart from that, you can also adjust its long stride in various ways. First, there are three angles wherein you can adjust its footplate. Then, the elliptical has a motorized incline that allows you to change the training position and intensity.
It also has a Bluetooth interface that syncs with 2 Nautilus training apps, wherein you can track your stats and progress.
Key Features
- 25 levels of resistance
- 29 customizable workout options
- Bluetooth interface
- Compatibility with smartphone apps
Pros
- Suitable for all fitness levels
- Occupies less space
- Cushioned footplates to keep your comfortable
- Bluetooth interface to sync with smartphone apps
Cons
- Display and console has an outdated appearance
Reasons to buy
- Long stride length to accommodate all the users
- Adjustable LCD for added comfort
- Ergonomically built handlebars suitable for a variety of positions
- Three courses from Explore the World Map included
6. Schwinn Compact Elliptical Machine
Specifications:
Weight capacity: 300 pounds
Incline: Yes
Stride length: 20 inches
Schwinn 430 Compact Elliptical Machine is an inexpensive elliptical machine that gives you a productive and effective whole body workout. You can try it for its affordable price tag and features that are comparable to high-end elliptical machines.
For instance, it has an extended 20-inch stride path and DualTrack displays that comprise 2 LCD screens to watch your workout stats and track your fitness progress.
Then, we cannot ignore its front-drive mechanism that consumes less open space and hence, Schwinn 430 is also suitable for small living spaces.
Its high inertia drive system maintains the required speed without making much noise. Moreover, the ramp is manually adjustable and provides you with six incline positions.
The elliptical machine has 22 pre-installed workout programs that include 9 profile programs, 8 to control your heart rate, 2 fitness tests, and a quick start guide.
To utilize all the workout programs, it has 20 levels of resistance that offers a wide range of workout intensities.
In addition to all the above features, Schwinn 430 comes with a USB charging port, MP3 input, and inbuilt speakers that lets you enjoy some music while losing some weight.
Key Features
- 20 resistance levels
- 22 inbuilt workout programs
- Dual LCD screens
- Inbuilt speakers and USB port
Pros
- A compact machine that occupies less space
- Provides total body workout
- Offers a wide range of workout intensity due to variable resistance
- Integrated workout programs for assistance
- Friction-free and noiseless operation
Cons
- Manual incline changes
Reasons to buy
- Goal Track capability that allows you to track your fitness development
- Precision Path foot motion for smooth movement
- Makes no noise to disturb you or other family members
- Large footplates with cushion for your comfort
7. Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical
Specifications:
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Incline: NA
- Stride length: 18 inches
Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer is another high rated elliptical trainer under 1000. If you need a low impact workout for health and fitness development, try it and you will feel disappointed.
The machine is suitable for users at any expertise level. So, even if you are recovering from any back pain or accident, it’s easy to use and proves to be effective on your muscles.
Capable to withstand a weight of up to 300 pounds, the FreeStep provides you with a great cardiovascular workout that combines both upper and lower body training. It improves your flexibility and enhances the coordination between your mind and body.
So, regular usage of such an efficient workout machine can do wonders for your cardiovascular mechanism, respiration system, and reduce extra fat from your body.
Teeter FreeStep LT1 utilizes magnetic resistance that you can change with a turn of a knob. No friction movement ensures reliability, minimal maintenance cost, and near-silent operation.
Apart from engaging all your hands and legs during the workout, you can also isolate your leg or arms for special training. Its handlebar is also adjustable that allows you to target biceps/triceps or chest/back according to your requirements.
Key Features
- Built with commercial PT Equipment Technology
- Burns 17.4 more calories per hour
- Makes up to 97 percent less impact on your knees and back
Pros
- Commercial grade quality for long-lasting assistance
- magnetic resistance for smooth and quiet operation
- Easy to read LCD
- Small footprint for convenient storage
Cons
- No incline positions
Reasons to buy
- Provides you a whole body workout
- Allows you to isolate the muscles for improved training
- Makes no impacts on your joints
- Offers great cardiovascular workout and weight management
8. Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical Machines
Specifications:
- Weight capacity: 275 pounds
- Incline: NA
- Stride length: 18 inches
Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical looks attractive and sits closer to the ground unlike other elliptical machines. It’s easy to assembly and works quietly.
There are a USB port and Bluetooth interface that allows you to stream media from your phone or tablet. Overall, it checks all the boxes to be in your home gym, especially with low ceilings.
EX-59 could be a risk-free purchase for beginners because it can be assembled within a few minutes. The elliptical has a straightforward console with one-touch keys for speed and inclines adjustment.
The overall built of the machine is great and there is also a lifetime warranty on its frame.
The elliptical has a built-in device holder, which is helpful when you have to watch videos on your smartphone or tablet. Well, it can be great to see and follow some of the instructors led classes.
You can also watch any of the movies or series. The holder is safe for your devices because it holds any of them well and is placed smartly for perfect viewing angles.
Bluetooth connectivity in a fitness machine gives you a different environment altogether. You can easily listen to the commands, tune in your favorite tracks, or play some motivational music when you are down on energy.
Well, you can get all that with the EX-59. Moreover, it also has a rapid charge USB port that takes care of your device.
Key Features
- SixStar™ Certified Frame for durability and reliability
- Ten inbuilt workout programs
- ECB magnetic brake system for smooth strides
- Lifetime coverage on the frame
- Twenty years of warranty on motor
Pros
- Bluetooth interface for better training and entertainment
- Rapid USB port for fast charging
- Easy to install
- Quick keys for speed and incline
Cons
- Non-backlit LCD
Reasons to buy
- Quiet operation that’s suitable for residential usage
- Low impacts on your joints
- Easy to use and offers whole body workout
9. Bowflex M3 Max Trainer
Specifications:
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Incline: NA
- Stride length: NA
Bowflex M3 Elliptical Trainer is a high-quality elliptical in the Max Trainer series. Still, its price tag is low as compared to other models with similar features.
It comes with 8 resistance levels and 2 workout apps to give you a complete body workout. Do you think it can match your requirements? Let’s know the same.
What makes the M3 Max Trainer a great machine for your home gym? Well, it combines the motion of stepper, as well as an elliptical to provide you with low impact training sessions.
According to research, such an effective machine can burn 1.56 times more calories compared to a treadmill. You can also try interval training, especially if you are working to tone or strengthen body muscle.
M5 Max allows changing the workout intensity due to its 8 resistance levels. So, no matter where you stand currently on the journey of fitness, it got some challenges for your body.
As the machine works on your upper as well as lower body parts, you can also expect an improved personality with toned biceps, triceps, shoulders, back, and even chest.
Key Features
- 2 built-in workout programs
- 8 resistance levels
- Includes chest strap
Pros
- Provides whole body workout
- Suitable for beginners and experts alike
- Burns calories faster than a treadmill
- Keeps the workout session challenging with its multiple resistance levels
- Convenient cup holder and media shelf
Cons
- Comparatively expensive
Reasons to buy
- Compact built and takes less storage space
- Makes zero impact on your joints
- Unique burn rate display that shows calories lost per minute
- Allows you to set activity level targets so that you can work out in a better way
10. Sunny Health & Fitness Motorized Elliptical Trainer
Specifications:
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Incline: NA
- Stride length: 19.5 inches
Sunny Health & Fitness Motorized SF E3875 is another high-quality elliptical trainer that was released by Sunny Health & Fitness in 2019. It has a weight capacity of 300 pounds and a stride length of 19.5 inches, which means the machine can easily accommodate any of the users irrelevant of the height or size.
It has 16 resistance levels but lacks any incline workout positions. Let’s cover all the other features that you can enjoy with the SF-E3875.
Sunny Health & Fitness elliptical trainer has steel tubes and hence, it’s durable. Once ready, the machine weighs more than 189 pounds, which means you cannot move it alone.
Due to the heavy built, it remains stable. Moreover, there are four rubber made levelers that adds to the over stability.
The fitness machine is equipped with a heavy flywheel worth 20 pounds. This wheel has a balanced construction to offer consistency and smooth movement.
It’s also bi-directional. Means, you can reverse pedal to target different muscles of the lower body. There is a 6-inch LCD with a blue backlit that shows all the workout stats.
Key Features
- 16 levels of computerized resistance
- 24 inbuilt workout programs
- Integrated tablet holder
- Works without electricity
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Transport wheels on the front frame
- Large and non-slipping pedals
- LED backlight on the display to promote readability
- Integrated pulse sensors into the handlebars
- Included bottle holder
Cons
- No incline, Bluetooth or speakers
Reasons to buy
- Performs without making noise, hence ideal for apartments and small flats
- Goal setting function for better workout
- Seeks minimal maintenance and hence suitable for working individuals
How to buy Best Elliptical Under $1000 (Buyers Guide)
Using an elliptical at your residence is an enjoyable and healthy experience, but finding a suitable option could be confusing because of multiple options available.
Moreover, you don’t drop hundreds of dollars every other week on a fitness machine. So, keep the following factors in check while selecting an elliptical.
Design and build quality: An elliptical trainer performs according to its build quality and weight. If it has a heavy flywheel, means the machine will work smoothly.
Apart from that, look for a trainer that has a long-lasting steel frame and ABS pedals. The form factor or dimension is also crucial when you are living in a small flat or apartment.
Choose any of the models if you own a home gym. But, go for a foldable or compact machine with transportation wheels if you are not going to use it every day or you have less open space.
Stride length: It’s the distance between the front pedal’s front and back of the rear pedal when the pair is at their maximum width.
Stride length is another crucial factor to consider because it’s one of the primary factors the decides your comfort and productivity over an elliptical.
If you are a tall user somewhere around 6 feet, then choose an option with around 20 inches of stride. Average sized users can try anywhere between 12 to 18 inches; depending upon their height.
Resistance and its levels: You can expect the adjustable resistance up to 25 levels. Well, everything depends upon the price tag here.
But, when we tune in towards $1000, the levels tend to rise. Investing in an elliptical with maximum resistance levels is smart thinking, but only if it’s available within your budget.
The choice of resistance levels also depends upon your fitness and strength. If you work out only for overall health benefits, then try one of the trainers with no or fewer levels of resistance.
If you want to engage in a high-intensity workout for effective calorie loss and strength build-up, then you should go for an elliptical with a high number of resistance levels.
Incline and its mode: Similar to resistance, an incline is another way to make enjoy workout challenging. Training on an inclined elliptical enhances the training intensity and trains your muscles in a less than polite way.
Investing up to $1000 cannot guarantee an elliptical with incline, but there are several models mentioned above that are some of the best that you can find.
If you want an elliptical with incline positioning, then try to choose a model that has motorized functionality. Means, you only have to push a button to change the incline. No need to interrupt your training session.
Console: As we were discussing, the controls for the incline should be motorized. The same goes for the resistance levels. Try to choose an elliptical that has quick buttons on its control panel or console.
LCD monitor should be with backlit so that you can easily check that work out stats. Heart rate sensor could be a great addition as well.
Benefits of Elliptical
Elliptical trainers are among the most loved fitness machines. What makes them so famous? Let’s know.
Boost your cardiovascular system: Aerobics is an integral part of workout programs. When you are performing cardio or aerobic exercises over an elliptical trainer, your body needs more blood and oxygen.
Its where your heart and lungs need to work harder, which eventually trains them to be strong.
Improves your stamina: Apart from the heart and lungs, an elliptical machine gives you a chance to work over all the muscles of your body.
Well, almost all of them. Working out every day or five days a week over such a piece of fitness equipment builds your endurance and stamina.
Crushes the extra fat: If you want to lose some weight, then try the best elliptical under 1000 that we discussed today.
On average, such a machine can burn anywhere between 300 to 400 calories within 30 minutes; depending upon your weight, fitness level, and speed. Burning more calories will bring your weight according to your wish.
Elliptical Under 1000 Vs 500
You will find multiple elliptical trainers under $500 that are available with a decent stride length, reasonable weight capacity, multiple levels of resistance, and pulse monitor.
For instance, ANCHEER Elliptical Machine. However, you will miss some of the amazing qualities that are only available as you climb up the price ladder.
Stability, high resistance levels, and most importantly the stride length start to differ when you browse for elliptical trainers under $1000.
Any elliptical under 500 can offer a maximum of 8 resistance levels and a low weight flywheel that affects its stability. On the other hand, elliptical under 1000, or between $500 to $1000 might come with up to 20 or even 25 resistance levels.
Moreover, these machines are better in terms of build quality and frame stability because of better construction and heavy flywheel.
Imagine a situation wherein you cannot work out properly only because an elliptical trainer has a small stride length. It might happen with entry-level models that generally come with stride measurements between 12 to 15 inches.
Things change when you decide to invest some more because then you will get better comfort and hence, effective as well as productive workout.
Frequently Asked Question of Best Elliptical Under $1000
Which is the best elliptical machine for home use?
Nautilus E616 is the best elliptical under 1000 because it has 20 inches of stride length, 25 resistance levels, and 29 workout programs that are useful for all the uses, irrelevant of the fitness level.
How much does an elliptical machine cost?
You need to spend anywhere between $1000 to $2000 for a high quality elliptical that can also be used by professionals. For basic home usage you can invest up to $1000, depending upon the features you need.
What is a better elliptical or treadmill?
A treadmill mimics outdoor running movement which is better for sports training and strengthening the lower body. An elliptical also strengthens your muscles, but it makes minimal impacts on your joints.
If you are dealing with any issues with your hips, ankle, knees, or back, then an elliptical trainer is better. In other words, both of them are impactful on your body, but according to your fitness level.
Where to buy an elliptical machine?
You can purchase elliptical machines from online stores like Amazon. You can also visit nearby outlets that deal with gym equipment, but that will need a lot of time management.
Final Thought
If you have checked the above mentioned elliptical trainers, their buying guide, and other related information, then you are well prepared to choose one of these machines.
Spending up to $1000 over fitness equipment is not an easy task for everyone. So, make sure you choose the right option after reading all the information.
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