Ellipticals differ from each other in more than price, but some have stability in excess, while others are more convenient. It’s difficult for you to get one machine that does everything perfectly, so a little direction is always necessary. Some like Schwinn 470 are high performing but pricy, while others like Stamina55-1602 are convenient but have limited versatility.
1. Schwinn 430 Compact Elliptical
It shares in many of the excellent features of Schwinn’s Compact series with a few exceptions. One of these exceptions is that it offers only 20 levels of resistance instead of the more popular 25. The machine also weighs significantly less than others of the series at a mere 182lbs. All-in-all, it sacrifices slightly in terms of performance but offers a lower price and profile.
Features
- 22 workout programs
- DualTrack LCD
- Goal Track capabilities
- 20” stride length
- Moving and fixed handlebars
- Cushioned pedals
- Media rack and speakers
- 300lbs max load
- Contact heart rate monitor
Pros
- Affordable
- Silent operation
- Easy to assemble
- Can handle super-fast rides
- Supports large strides
- Footrest doesn’t slip
Cons
- No telemetry data
- Lacks wireless
Price: View on Amazon
2. Schwinn 470 Compact Elliptical
It’s almost twice again as expensive as Schwinn 430 despite boasting of only a few extra features. Among these extras are a Run Social App, Bluetooth wireless, 25 resistance levels, and 29 workout programs. You can also enjoy telemetry monitoring data on your Schwinn 470 elliptical trainer.
Features
- Integrated water holder
- 20” stride length
- 300lbs load capacity
- Two DualTrack backlit LCD
- Media Rack and speakers
- Two-year parts warranty
- 190lbs
Pros
- Ultra-silent
- Offers a full media and wireless suite
- Includes app support
- Easy assembly and high performance
- The largest number of pre-set programs
Cons
- Expensive
Price: View on Amazon
3. Nautilus E618 Elliptical
The trainer sells for about twice the price of a Schwinn 470 but is well worth the cost. Its weight support capability surpasses 350lbs, and it matches Schwinn 470’s record 29 pre-set programs while surpassing its performance. E618 weighs a mere 210lbs.
Features
- Media tray and bottle holder
- Run Social App
- Bluetooth Wireless
- Telemetry heart rate monitoring
- 22” stride path
- Suspension adjust cushion
- 25 resistance levels
- Motorized incline
Pros
- Fully customizable
- Offers an unmatched cushioning system
- Record-breaking workout programs and resistance levels
- Can be commercialized
Cons
- Ultra-expensive
Price: View on Amazon
4. Bowflex M3 Max Series
M3 has a small profile and offers only eight levels of resistance, making it a low-performing elliptical. However, it’s a very cost-effective option for home users due to its low price and small footprint. The machine also operates both a contact heart rate monitor as well as telemetry and doesn’t skimp on material quality.
Features
- Two workout programs
- Two-user system
- Backlit LCD
- Transport wheels
- 200lbs + weight limit
- Two-year limited warranty
- 166lbs
Pros
- Lightweight with the small profile
- Impressive sensor suite
- Quiet operation
- Easy assembly
- Cheap
Cons
- No Bluetooth or Explore app
- Low resistance levels
Price: View on Amazon
5. Stamina 55-1602 Inmotion
It takes a very different form factor than the Ellipticals we’re used to, but don’t let that fool you. The tiny machine may weigh just 24lbs, but it can fully support over 250lbs of weight. Inmotion 55-1602 is supremely portable and easily adjustable, but it doesn’t include any smart function for convenience.
Features
- 250lbs weight limit
- Monitor tracker
- Adjustable tension dial
- Anti-slip pedals
- Sit or stand operation
Pros
- Low cost
- Portable and compact
- Efficient design
- Works quietly
- Durable construction
Cons
- No handlebars
- Lacks pre-set workout setups
Price: View on Amazon