10 Best Compact Elliptical Machines 2025 in the United States

The CURSOR FITNESS Under Desk Elliptical Machine is a compact and versatile option for those looking to stay active while seated. Its small footprint of 16 inches by 14 inches makes it ideal for home or office use without taking up much space.

The machine offers a range of 12 resistance levels and 12 workout modes, which can cater to different fitness needs, from rehabilitation exercises to muscle strengthening. The ability to switch between forward and reverse directions adds to the comprehensive leg workout options, and the magnetic resistance mechanism ensures smooth and quiet operation, making it suitable for use without disturbing others.

The included remote control and LCD monitor make it easy to adjust settings and track progress such as time, distance, counts, and calories burned in real-time. Although it lacks incline options, the variety of speed settings and automatic modes compensates for this limitation, and the machine's maximum stride length of 15 inches is sufficient for seated exercises. It's constructed from durable aluminum, supporting a maximum weight of 300 pounds, which speaks to its robustness. This machine is particularly beneficial for office workers, elderly individuals, or those needing rehabilitation, making it a thoughtful gift option for promoting leg muscle relaxation and blood circulation.

The Cubii JR1 is a compact elliptical designed for use while seated, making it ideal for people who want to stay active at home or work without standing or dedicating large amounts of space. With a stride length of 18 inches, it provides a comfortable, low-impact motion suitable for light workouts or rehabilitation. It offers 8 manual resistance levels, allowing users to adjust workout intensity, though it lacks automatic or electronic resistance control.

The machine is relatively lightweight at 25.4 pounds and has a footprint of about 23 by 18 inches, making it easy to fit under most desks or in small spaces. Unlike some other ellipticals, it does not have incline options, which limits exercise variety but simplifies use. The built-in LCD console tracks basic fitness metrics such as calories burned, strides pedaled, and distance traveled, which can be manually recorded in the Cubii mobile app for progress tracking. The description emphasizes a smooth and quiet pedaling experience, suitable for office environments.

This product suits seniors, people recovering from injury, or anyone looking for a gentle way to add movement during sedentary activities. It is not intended for intense cardio workouts or for those seeking a full standing elliptical experience.

The Sunny Health & Fitness Electromagnetic Recumbent Cross Trainer is a solid choice for those looking to engage in low-impact workouts while benefiting from a full-body exercise experience. With its 16 levels of electromagnetic resistance, users can adjust the intensity to match their fitness goals, from light activities to more intense sessions. The machine also includes 12 pre-programmed workouts and allows for custom programs, providing variety and motivation for users.

Comfort is a key highlight with the padded seat and adjustable back support, ensuring a pleasant workout experience. The design promotes easy access, making it user-friendly for people of all fitness levels, especially those with mobility concerns. Plus, the addition of arm exercisers allows for a more comprehensive workout, engaging both upper and lower body muscle groups.

There are some areas to consider before purchasing. The size of the machine—71.7'' in length—may take up considerable space in smaller homes or apartments. While it has a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs, it’s essential to ensure that it fits your space and needs. Additionally, despite its robust features, the machine weighs 113.1 lbs, which may make it difficult to move around or reposition after setup. The SunnyFit App enhances the user experience, offering access to numerous workouts and performance tracking. The warranty covers certain parts for limited timeframes, which could be a consideration for long-term users.