“a helpful & lucid review site for all things budget” — the new yorker
Also see our full Ellipticals review:
  1. Cheap Elliptical Trainers
  2. Cheap Elliptical Machines Stride Length, Resistance
  3. Elliptical Reviews
  4. Best Elliptical
  5. Discount Ellipticals Features Comparison Table

A cheap elliptical trainer is a valuable piece of gym equipment for your home. It gives an intense workout without the impact of a treadmill or stress to your joints. You won't get a gym-like experience on a cheap elliptical, but you'll come very close. The stride length should suit your fitness level and physique. If it's too short, your movements will feel choppy rather than elliptical; exercisers who are taller than six feet should choose a cheap elliptical trainer with a stride length longer than 18 inches. Multiple resistance levels keep you challenged as your fitness level improves, and multiple preset programs provide variety to keep you motivated. The maximum user weight hints at the sturdiness of a cheap elliptical trainer. A long warranty is another benchmark of quality.

Stride Length Resistance Levels/Adjustable Incline # Preset Programs Weight Capacity Warranty
Schwinn 420 estimated price $500
18 inches 16/no 12 300 lbs. 5 years frame; 1 year parts & electronics; 90 days wear & labor
Horizon EX69 estimated price $799
20 inches 16/Five positions 11 300 lbs. Lifetime frame & brake; 1 year parts & labor
Nautilus E514 estimated price $537
18 inches 16/no 11 300 lbs. 10 years frame; 2 years parts; 1 year electronics
ProForm 590E estimated price $582
18 inches 16/Four positions 20 plus iFit Live compatibility 300 lbs. Lifetime frame; 1 year parts & labor
ADVERTISING