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10 Best Budget Elliptical Trainer 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sunny Health & Fitness Upright Elliptical Exercise Machine with Pulse Sensor for Full Body Cross Training Exercise Cardio Machine for Home, Optional Long Stride via Bluetooth and SunnyFit App Access

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,491
Stride Length
Resistance Levels
Incline Options

Most important from
19905 reviews

Stride Length
The 16-inch stride length provides a natural, comfortable motion that works the legs, arms, and core effectively, suitable especially for beginners and seniors.
Resistance Levels
Magnetic resistance with 16 levels provides good workout intensity options, though the lack of incline limits exercise variety.
Incline Options
Magnetic resistance with 16 levels provides good workout intensity options, though the lack of incline limits exercise variety.
Size and Portability
Its compact size and wheels make it relatively easy to move, though the machine is on the heavier side and requires adequate floor space.

The Sunny Health & Fitness Ultra Silent Smart Elliptical is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable elliptical trainer with a natural, comfortable stride. Its 16-inch stride length is ideal for smooth, full-body movement without feeling cramped, making it suitable for seniors or beginners who want a joint-friendly workout. The machine offers 16 resistance levels, which provide good options for varying workout intensity, though it does not have incline options, limiting workout variety if you want uphill challenges. Its magnetic resistance and dual rail system ensure quiet, smooth operation, perfect for home use without disturbing others.

The elliptical supports up to 300 pounds, built with durable alloy steel, so it can accommodate most users safely. Additionally, it features a clear digital console with real-time tracking for time, distance, calories, and heart rate, helping you monitor progress easily. The included SunnyFit app with free trainer-led workouts and virtual tours adds value by keeping workouts engaging and interactive.

This model is on the heavier side at nearly 97 pounds, making it less portable despite having wheels, and it’s somewhat large, so it needs a decent amount of floor space. Assembly is relatively easy, but some may still need the video guide. The elliptical provides a good balance of important features for home cardio exercise at a budget-friendly price, especially for users focused on natural movement and quiet operation without advanced incline features.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,491
Stride Length
Resistance Levels
Incline Options

Most important from
19905 reviews

Stride Length
The 16-inch stride length provides a natural, comfortable motion that works the legs, arms, and core effectively, suitable especially for beginners and seniors.
Resistance Levels
Magnetic resistance with 16 levels provides good workout intensity options, though the lack of incline limits exercise variety.
Incline Options
Magnetic resistance with 16 levels provides good workout intensity options, though the lack of incline limits exercise variety.
Size and Portability
Its compact size and wheels make it relatively easy to move, though the machine is on the heavier side and requires adequate floor space.
#2

Niceday Elliptical Machine, Cross Trainer with Hyper-Quiet Magnetic Driving System, 16 Resistance Levels, 400LB Weight Limit

Rating
10.0
Stride Length
Resistance Levels
Console Features

Most important from
3525 reviews

Stride Length
The stride length is shorter than expected for taller users, feeling more like a stair stepper and lacking adjustability, which can affect comfort.
Resistance Levels
Adjusting resistance can be awkward due to the low placement of the dial, requiring bending over to see and change levels during workouts.
Console Features
The magnetic resistance system operates very quietly, allowing for smooth workouts that don’t disturb others in the home.
Size and Portability
The elliptical is impressively sturdy and stable, supporting heavy users up to 400 pounds without wobbling during intense workouts.

The Niceday Elliptical Machine is a solid choice if you're looking for a budget-friendly elliptical trainer that balances features and durability. Its 15.5-inch stride length is comfortable for most users between 4'9" and 6'4", making it versatile for families. With 16 resistance levels powered by a 16-pound flywheel, it offers smooth, quiet workouts that can suit beginners through to more experienced exercisers. The magnetic resistance system is notably quiet, which is great if you want to exercise without disturbing others.

One strong point is its impressive 400-pound weight capacity, supported by a sturdy, thick steel frame, which is uncommon in this price range. This makes it a reliable option for heavier users and adds to its stability during workouts. The console features a 5-inch screen that tracks your heart rate, speed, time, distance, and calories, and through its partnership with Kinomap, it offers engaging workout videos to keep you motivated.

The elliptical lacks incline options, which some users might miss if they want more varied workouts. Also, while it’s relatively compact and designed to fit in many home spaces, it weighs over 100 pounds, so moving it around frequently could be challenging. Assembly is straightforward, with 90% pre-assembled parts, making setup approachable even for non-experts. The Niceday Elliptical is well-suited for home users seeking a durable, quiet, and feature-rich elliptical at an affordable price. Just keep in mind the fixed incline and heavier weight if portability and workout variety are key priorities for you.

Rating
10.0
Stride Length
Resistance Levels
Console Features

Most important from
3525 reviews

Stride Length
The stride length is shorter than expected for taller users, feeling more like a stair stepper and lacking adjustability, which can affect comfort.
Resistance Levels
Adjusting resistance can be awkward due to the low placement of the dial, requiring bending over to see and change levels during workouts.
Console Features
The magnetic resistance system operates very quietly, allowing for smooth workouts that don’t disturb others in the home.
Size and Portability
The elliptical is impressively sturdy and stable, supporting heavy users up to 400 pounds without wobbling during intense workouts.
#3

Elliptical Machine: E25 Elliptical Gym Equipment for Home and Studio, Exercise Equipment with 7.5" LCD Display, Tablet Holder, Adjustable Resistance, Power Incline and Heart Rate Monitoring (E25)

Rating
10.0
Resistance Levels
Size and Portability
Console Features

Most important from
877 reviews

Resistance Levels
Resistance levels progress smoothly, though the initial setting feels tighter than expected and loosens with use.
Size and Portability
The large size fits well in home spaces with sufficient ceiling height, but the weight makes it less portable.
Console Features
Built-in features like Bluetooth speakers, USB charging, and tablet holder enhance convenience and entertainment.

The SOLE E25 Elliptical Trainer is a strong contender in the budget home elliptical category, offering several features that make it comfortable and versatile for most users. It has a 20-inch stride length, which is suitable for average to taller users, helping provide a natural, fluid motion. The resistance system includes 20 magnetic levels, giving plenty of options to adjust workout intensity from beginner to more challenging sessions. The 20-pound flywheel ensures smooth, consistent movement, enhancing the exercise experience without feeling jerky or stiff.

A standout feature is the power incline with 20 adjustable levels, which adds variety and targets different muscle groups more effectively than fixed inclines common in budget models. This, combined with stable construction and a 350-pound weight capacity, means it can handle most adults safely. The console is user-friendly with a 7.5-inch LCD display and integrates well with the free Sole+ app, offering workout classes and tracking to keep motivation high. The built-in tablet holder, USB charging, and Bluetooth speakers are thoughtful touches that add convenience and entertainment.

Its footprint (70" long by 24" wide) is fairly compact for an elliptical, making it suitable for home or small studio spaces, though at about 209 pounds, it’s quite heavy and less portable. The innovative pedal design with a slight inward slope aims to reduce joint strain, which is a great plus for comfort and injury prevention. The SOLE E25 delivers a solid balance of performance, comfort, and tech features for a budget-friendly elliptical. Despite its heavier weight, its stability, incline options, and app support make it a good choice for users seeking a durable and engaging home workout machine without overspending.

Rating
10.0
Resistance Levels
Size and Portability
Console Features

Most important from
877 reviews

Resistance Levels
Resistance levels progress smoothly, though the initial setting feels tighter than expected and loosens with use.
Size and Portability
The large size fits well in home spaces with sufficient ceiling height, but the weight makes it less portable.
Console Features
Built-in features like Bluetooth speakers, USB charging, and tablet holder enhance convenience and entertainment.

Buying Guide for the Best Budget Elliptical Trainer

Choosing the right elliptical trainer can significantly enhance your fitness routine by providing a low-impact, full-body workout. When selecting an elliptical trainer, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure it meets your fitness goals, space constraints, and comfort preferences. Understanding these key specs will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your needs.
Stride LengthStride length refers to the maximum distance between the pedals when they are at their farthest apart. This spec is crucial because it affects the comfort and effectiveness of your workout. A shorter stride length (16-18 inches) is suitable for shorter individuals or those with limited space, while a medium stride length (18-20 inches) is ideal for average height users. A longer stride length (20-22 inches) is best for taller individuals or those seeking a more natural running motion. Choose a stride length that matches your height and workout style for optimal comfort and performance.
Resistance LevelsResistance levels determine how challenging your workout can be. This spec is important because it allows you to adjust the intensity of your exercise, helping you progress and achieve your fitness goals. Elliptical trainers typically offer a range of resistance levels, from low to high. Beginners or those looking for light exercise may prefer fewer resistance levels (8-12), while more advanced users or those seeking intense workouts should look for higher resistance levels (16-20+). Consider your current fitness level and how you plan to use the elliptical to choose the right range of resistance levels.
Flywheel WeightThe flywheel weight affects the smoothness and stability of the elliptical's motion. A heavier flywheel generally provides a smoother and more consistent workout experience. Light flywheels (10-15 lbs) are suitable for beginners or those with limited space, while medium flywheels (15-20 lbs) offer a balance of smoothness and portability. Heavy flywheels (20+ lbs) are ideal for serious fitness enthusiasts seeking a gym-quality experience. Choose a flywheel weight that matches your workout intensity and space availability for the best performance.
Incline OptionsIncline options allow you to adjust the angle of the elliptical's path, simulating uphill movement and targeting different muscle groups. This spec is important for adding variety to your workouts and increasing the challenge. Some ellipticals offer manual incline adjustments, while others have motorized options. If you want to focus on specific muscle groups or add intensity to your workouts, look for an elliptical with multiple incline levels. If you prefer a straightforward workout, a model without incline options may suffice.
Console FeaturesThe console features include the display and controls that provide workout information and entertainment options. This spec is important for tracking your progress and keeping you motivated. Basic consoles display essential metrics like time, distance, and calories burned, while advanced consoles offer features like heart rate monitoring, pre-set workout programs, and connectivity to fitness apps. Consider what information and features are important to you. If you enjoy tracking detailed metrics or need extra motivation, opt for a more advanced console. If you prefer simplicity, a basic console will do.
Size and PortabilitySize and portability refer to the dimensions and ease of moving the elliptical trainer. This spec is crucial if you have limited space or need to store the machine when not in use. Compact ellipticals are ideal for small spaces and can often be folded or have wheels for easy movement. Larger ellipticals provide a more stable and comfortable workout but require more space. Measure your available space and consider how often you'll need to move the elliptical to choose the right size and portability features for your home.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity indicates the maximum user weight the elliptical can safely support. This spec is important for ensuring the machine's durability and your safety. Ellipticals typically have weight capacities ranging from 250 to 400 lbs. Choose a model with a weight capacity that exceeds your body weight to ensure stability and longevity. If multiple users will be using the elliptical, consider the heaviest user when selecting the weight capacity.

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