Best Elliptical Under $1,000 At A Glance
Best Elliptical Under $1,000
Sunny Health & Fitness Motorized Elliptical Machine Trainer
This elliptical has 24 different programs, 16 resistance levels, and a 300 lb weight capacity.
Runner-Up For Best Elliptical Under $1,000
Sunny Health & Fitness Stride Elliptical Machine Magnetic Fitness
This elliptical comes with 16 levels of resistance, 12 built-in programs, and a weight capacity of 265 lbs.
Tons Of Options For Programs And Resistance
Schwinn Fitness 470 Elliptical
This elliptical offers 29 different programs and 25 levels of resistance, making it one of the most diverse ellipticals out there.
Premium Elliptical With Amazing Warranty
Nautilus E616 Elliptical Trainer
This elliptical also has 29 programs and 25 levels of resistance, but its warranty is superior to most other products as it covers 10 years for the frame, 3 years for parts and electronics, and 1 year for labor.
Slightly More Affordable Option With Many Programs And Resistance Levels
Schwinn Fitness 430 Elliptical
This elliptical is a more affordable option than the Schwinn Fitness 470 Elliptical but still offers 22 different programs and 20 levels of resistance.
Great For High-Intensity Training
Bowflex M3 Max Trainer
This machine combines the low-impact motion of an elliptical with the calorie-burning power of a stepper.
Best 2-In-1 Elliptical And Bike
ProForm Hybrid Trainer Recumbent Bike and Rear Drive Elliptical
This 2-in-1 machine has 16 different resistance levels and a 350-lb user capacity.
Affordable Elliptical With Great Features
XTERRA Fitness FS3.5 Elliptical Machine Trainer
This elliptical comes with 24 resistance levels and a weight capacity of 300lbs.
Easy To Assemble
Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical Trainer
This machine can be assembled in 30 minutes or less.
Many fitness-minded individuals are looking to buy ellipticals for their homes, yet most brand names cost well over $1,000. Fortunately, there are a number of ellipticals out there that cost less than $1,000 and still have the main features and overall quality found in brand-name products, allowing you to get the workout you desire at a much lower price.
Two ellipticals in particular that fit this category and stand apart from the rest are the Motorized Elliptical Machine Trainer and the Fitness Stride Elliptical Machine Magnetic Fitness by Sunny Health & Fitness. They’re the best ellipticals under $1,000 due to their high weight capacity, numerous training programs, high-tech performance monitoring systems, and other unique features.
Yet, these aren’t the end-all-be-all as there are a few other ellipticals also worth considering. As such, this article also takes a look at other ellipticals in this price range that stand out for their low cost, impressive stride length, advanced training program capabilities, and warranty deals.
So, keep reading if you’re looking to find the best elliptical for your unique needs!
How We Found The Best Elliptical Under $1,000
When choosing an elliptical for one’s home, you might assume the higher-priced ones are typically going to give you more features and be better overall. Yet, there are high-quality ellipticals under $1,000 that’ll do the job – they just don’t come with a load of bells and whistles.
To help you select the best elliptical under $1,000, we only selected products that met the following criteria:
- Offer several training programs and resistance levels
- Come with holders for devices and water bottles
- Have a high weight capacity (around 300 lbs) to support users from all health backgrounds
- Come with a generous stride length (20” or so) to support a greater range of height
- Come with a good warranty to make sure you get your money’s worth
Importantly, all products were also thoroughly reviewed for legitimacy and effectiveness through ReviewMeta. This is particularly important for Amazon products as there are often many illegitimate or inaccurate product listings there.
To read more about how our review process, check out these articles on how we spot fake Amazon supplements and review supplements, equipment, and other products.
Benefits Of Ellipticals
Ellipticals are beneficial since they offer a low-impact, joint-friendly way to achieve greater levels of stamina, endurance, and overall cardiovascular health all while using the major muscles of the body.
- For example, one study found that ellipticals engage muscles up both the upper and lower body and do so to a greater degree than treadmills.
- Another study found that ellipticals are just as effective, if not more, than running for increasing heart rate and oxygen consumption, yet they produce half of the ground reaction force, which means less stress on your joints.
- Finally, research shows that ellipticals lead to greater quad activation while offering the same activation as other exercises for hamstrings.
Our Reviews Of The Best Elliptical Under $1,000
Best Elliptical Under $1,000
Sunny Health & Fitness Motorized Elliptical Machine Trainer
- Programs: 24 options
- Resistance: 16 levels
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Stride: 19.5″
- Dimensions: 62″ L X 26″ W X 70″ H
- Weight: 189.6 lbs
- Warranty: 3-year frame, 180-day parts
The elliptical that takes the podium is The Motorized Elliptical Machine Trainer from Sunny Health and Fitness. This elliptical has a very sleek design with many features, such as a device holder, full-motion arm exercisers, a bottle holder, and monitoring systems for your heart rate and overall performance.
Additionally, it offers 24 different programs and 16 resistance levels, making it easy to pick the correct program for you.
And no need to worry about safety issues due to the floor stabilizers and non-slip, oversized foot pedals, as well as its 300-lb weight capacity. Plus, it’s easy to transport with its glide wheels and handlebar. And with all of this, the total price is still only $856.98.
Finally, the frame warranty is for 3 years, while the warranty for the parts and other components is 180 days.
Amazon Rating: 4.1/5.0 based on 149 ratings
Featured Review: “This machine looks great and gets the job done – it’s perfect for our at-home gym. I wanted something solid and comparable to the heavier machines I’ve used at the gym and this thing is really solid. The best part is how absolutely silent it is.” – Morgan Loverro, February 11, 2021
Features
- Plenty of programs and resistance levels
- Decent stride length
- High weight capacity
But be aware of…
- Heavier than other options
- Warranty for frame isn’t as long as other options
- Some people have reported issues with customer service
Runner-Up For Best Elliptical Under $1,000
Sunny Health & Fitness Stride Elliptical Machine Magnetic Fitness
- Programs: 12 options
- Resistance: 16 levels
- Weight Capacity: 265 lbs
- Stride: 20″
- Dimensions: 66″ L X 30″ W X 68″ H
- Weight: 144 lbs
- Warranty: 3-year frame, 180-day parts
Coming in second place is another elliptical from Sunny Health and Fitness called the Stride Elliptical Machine Magnetic Fitness. This also has an impressive, lightweight design and comes with full-motion arm exercisers, a device holder, a bottle holder, as well as a backlit LCD performance monitoring system, and a heart rate monitor.
This elliptical comes with 16 levels of resistance and offers a 20-inch stride length, helping you to get a full-body workout at whatever level you desire. It also features floor stabilizers and non-slip foot pedals for safety assurance, as well as handlebars and wheels for easy transportation. The max weight for this machine is 265 lbs.
Finally, the frame warranty is for 3 years, while the warranty for the parts and other components is 180 days.
Amazon Rating: 4.2/5.0 based on 212 ratings
Featured Review: “Outstanding quality elliptical. It’s as solid and smooth as some of the professional gym ellipticals I’ve used.” – James Warner, August 12, 2019
Features
- Several resistance levels
- Decent stride length
- Heavy flywheel
But be aware of…
- Fewer programs than other options
- Warranty for frame isn’t as long as other options
- Lower weight capacity than other options
Best Elliptical Under $1,000 For Program Options
Schwinn Fitness 470 Elliptical
- Programs: 29 options
- Resistance: 25 levels
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Stride: 20″
- Dimensions: 70.1″ L X 28.2″ W X 63.2″ H
- Weight: 164 lbs
- Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year electronics, 90-day labor
Up next is the Fitness 470 Elliptical from Schwinn Fitness, which sets itself apart due to the many programs. It offers Bluetooth connectivity so you can use it with your favorite apps, such as the Explore the World App where you can take on over 50 different routes.
This elliptical offers 29 different programs and 25 levels of resistance, making it likely the most diverse elliptical out there. And all of this is shown on a backlit LCD display.
It doesn’t cut corners with other features either as it offers a 20” stride length, media rack, speakers, an adjustable incline ramp, and a built-in bottle holder.
Finally, the warranty is 10 years for the frame, 2 years for mechanical parts, 1 year for electronics, and 90 days for labor.
Amazon Rating: 4.2/5.0 based on 2,396 ratings
Featured Review: “The workout that the Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine provides is comparable to that which I was getting at the gym. I like the full stride that it provides, as well as the degree of exercise it provides.” – James Nowick, June 10, 2018
Features
- Tons of programs and resistance levels
- Decent stride length
- Has Bluetooth connectivity
But be aware of…
- Most expensive option on our list
- Heavier than other options
- Smaller screen than other options
Premium Elliptical With Amazing Warranty
Nautilus E616 Elliptical Trainer
- Programs: 29 options
- Resistance: 25 levels
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Stride: 20″
- Dimensions: 70″ L X 28″ W X 71″ H
- Weight: 173.3 lbs
- Warranty: 10-year frame, 3-year parts and electronics, 1-year labor
This elliptical surpasses the majority of its competition as it also features 29 programs and 25 levels of resistance, but what stands out the most is its warranty which covers 10 years for the frame, 3 years for parts and electronics, and 1 year for labor.
Users will also be able to enjoy its Bluetooth connectivity, Explore the World app, and 20″ stride length.
Amazon Rating: 4.1/5.0 based on 567 ratings
Featured Review: “As far as functionality, this thing is extremely solid and smooth while using it. I am very impressed with the quality of this machine. The display is bright and the fan is certainly adequate. If you are looking for a great machine at a great price this machine is definitely worth it and I feel it will last a long time due to its solid-fluid build.” – B. Webb, May 23, 2019
Features
- Tons of programs and resistance levels
- Decent stride length
- One of the best warranties available
But be aware of…
- Right under $1,000
- Heavier than other options
- Smaller screen than other options
Slightly More Affordable Option With Many Programs And Resistance Levels
Schwinn Fitness 430 Elliptical
- Programs: 22 options
- Resistance: 20 levels
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Stride: 20″
- Dimensions: 70.1″ L X 28.2″ W X 63.2″ H
- Weight: 168.7 lbs
- Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year electronics, 90-day labor
This elliptical is a more affordable option than the Schwinn Fitness 470 Elliptical but still offers 22 different programs and 20 levels of resistance.
It also supports users up to 300 lbs, has a stride length of 20″, and is covered by the same warranty.
If you want tons of options for training but are trying to save a few hundred dollars, then this machine will meet your expectations.
Amazon Rating: 4.3/5.0 based on 1,361 ratings
Featured Review: “The frame of this machine is quite sturdy and very well constructed. In addition, its performance is quite smooth. I am 6 ft tall and the 20 in stride is completely comfortable. Moreover, the magnetic resistance works quite well and is very challenging when it needs to be.” – Curt Bolling, January 29, 2021
Features
- Tons of programs and resistance levels
- Decent stride length
- One of the best warranties available
But be aware of…
- Higher price point
- Heavier than other options
- Smaller screen than other options
Great For High-Intensity Training
Bowflex M3 Max Trainer
- Programs: 2 options
- Resistance: 8 levels
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Stride: 20″
- Dimensions: 49″ L X 26″ W X 64.7″ H
- Weight: 143 lbs
- Warranty: 1-year
If you’re looking to max your calorie-burning efforts, then definitely consider the Bowflex M3 Max Trainer.
This machine combines the low-impact motion of an elliptical with the power of a stepper to create a safe, yet highly effective workout.
You can choose from 8 different resistance levels and 2 training programs. A chest strap is also included with your purchase to track your heart rate.
Amazon Rating: 4.6/5.0 based on 2,071 ratings
Featured Review: “I thought I was in pretty good shape and bought this machine when our gym closed due to COVID-19. I have been using it for about 2 months and am getting a much better workout than I did at the gym with the elliptical + treadmill combination I was using there.” – Andrew Burkins
Features
- Good stride length
- 2-in-1 machine
- High weight capacity
But be aware of…
- Few programs and resistance levels
- Higher price point
- Small screen
Best 2-In-1 Elliptical And Bike
ProForm Hybrid Trainer Recumbent Bike and Rear Drive Elliptical
- Programs: Unclear for built-in
- Resistance: 16 levels
- Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
- Stride: 15″
- Dimensions: 70.5″ L X 24.5″ W X 60.5″ H
- Weight: 135 lbs
- Warranty: 5-year frame, 90-day parts
A very unique option from ProForm is their Hybrid Trainer Recumbent Bike and Rear Drive Elliptical, which essentially acts as a 2-in-1 machine. Thus, you can get a unique 2-in-1 low-impact cardio workout.
It also offers 16 different resistance levels and a 350-lb user capacity. It also comes with a 30-day iFit trial membership that allows you to view trainer-led classes and workouts, all on a LCD window display. Finally, it comes with adjustable pedals, grip sensors, and an integrated sound system.
They also offer a 5-year warranty for the frame and 90 days for parts and labor.
Amazon Rating: 4.1/5.0 based on 1,368 ratings
Featured Review: “Switching from one mode to the other is easy and the options are just right for both. I recommend this if you want some versatility and a reasonable workout.” – Jim Baker, February 26, 2021
Features
- 2-in-1 machine
- Several resistance levels
- High weight capacity
But be aware of…
- Shorter stride length than other options
- Performance monitor isn’t super advanced
- Smaller screen than other options
Affordable Elliptical With Great Features
XTERRA Fitness FS3.5 Elliptical Machine Trainer
- Programs: 24 options
- Resistance: 24 levels
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Stride: 17″
- Dimensions: 57.1″ L X 20.5″ W X 63″ H
- Weight: 120 lbs
- Warranty: 5-year frame, 1-year brake and parts
The FS3.5 Elliptical Machine Trainer from XTERRA Fitness has a somewhat short stride length at 17”, but it offers 24 resistance levels and 24 potential program options.
Plus, it has a weight capacity of 300lbs and offers oversized, non-slip foot pedals, and a large LCD screen to display all of the information you need.
There are also built-in transportation wheels for easy moving. The warranty is 5 years for the frame, 1 year for parts, and 1 year for brakes.
Amazon Rating: 3.6/5.0 based on 30 ratings
Featured Review: “Sturdy, great size, works perfect and you can feel the workout.” – M. Atescatenco, January 11, 2021
Features
- Plenty of programs and resistance levels
- Lightweight
- Compact
But be aware of…
- Shorter stride length than other options
- No bottle holder
- Smaller screen than other options
Easy To Assemble
Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical Trainer
- Programs: 5 options
- Resistance: 10 levels
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Stride: 18″
- Dimensions: 74″ L X 25″ W X 64.5″ H
- Weight: 145 lbs
- Warranty: Lifetime frame, 1-year parts and labor
The Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical Trainer can be assembled in 30 minutes or less and is ideal for home workouts.
It has an 18″ stride length and offers 5 program options as well as 10 resistance levels.
Additionally, it features Bluetooth capability allowing you to sync your phone or device to integrated speakers. There’s even a rapid-charge USB port along with a built-in device holder.
On top of all these perks, it’s covered by a lifetime warranty for the frame and a 1-year warranty for parts and labor.
Amazon Rating: 4.1/5.0 based on 160 ratings
Featured Review: “This elliptical is gym quality. Assembly was easy because they have the tools set up by each step which made extremely easy to put together.” – Culley Charlie, May 25, 2020
Features
- Affordable option
- Bluetooth compatible
- Easy to assemble
But be aware of…
- Not that many resistance levels
- Only a handful of program options
- Not as compact as other options
Looking for more options? Read our article on the best ellipticals under $500.
Editor’s note: we are regularly updating this review. If you see any problems, weird interpretations of the data, or just want to say hi, please reach out to hello@the-unwinder.com.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels
