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10 Best Compact Ellipticals 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Elliptical Exercise Machine by Sole Fitness, Home Workout Equipment for Cardio, Running, and Walking, 13.3" Touch Screen, 20" Stride Length, Bluetooth, and Heart Rate Monitoring (Sole E98)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,374
Resistance Levels
Console and Display
Build Quality and Durability

Most important from
875 reviews

Resistance Levels
Consistency of operation with noticeable gradation in resistance levels.
Console and Display
Once assembled, the machine is excellent, smooth operation with fairly straightforward controls.
Build Quality and Durability
Solid construction with no easily broken parts.
Noise Level
Assembly was rather straightforward and mostly quiet operation.

The Sole E98 elliptical exercise machine is designed for home workouts, making it a solid choice for those seeking an effective yet compact cardio solution. With a footprint of 83" L x 34" W x 70" H, it can fit into most home spaces while still offering a robust design that supports up to 400 lbs. This elliptical features a generous 20" stride length, which is beneficial for a more comfortable and effective workout experience. The addition of 20 resistance levels allows users to tailor their workouts according to fitness levels and goals.

One of the standout features of the Sole E98 is its 13.3" touch screen, which provides a modern interface for tracking workouts and accessing built-in media apps. The integration with the Sole+ app further enhances its appeal, offering a wide range of guided workouts and classes, which is great for those needing motivation and variety.

Users will appreciate the elliptical’s smooth operation, attributed to its precision balanced flywheel and ergonomically designed foot pedals. This contributes to a quieter workout experience, making it suitable for home use without disturbing others. Additionally, the inclusion of Bluetooth speakers and a tablet holder adds convenience for entertainment during workouts. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The machine's substantial weight (around 246 lbs) might make it challenging to move, despite its space-saving design. While the 20 resistance levels are impressive, some users may find the 10 workout programs a bit limited compared to other machines on the market that offer more variety. Additionally, potential buyers should note that assembly may require some effort, so it's best suited for those comfortable with setting up exercise equipment.

The Sole E98 elliptical stands out for its solid build quality, effective workout customization, and user-friendly features, making it an excellent option for anyone serious about home fitness while being mindful of space constraints.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,374
Resistance Levels
Console and Display
Build Quality and Durability

Most important from
875 reviews

Resistance Levels
Consistency of operation with noticeable gradation in resistance levels.
Console and Display
Once assembled, the machine is excellent, smooth operation with fairly straightforward controls.
Build Quality and Durability
Solid construction with no easily broken parts.
Noise Level
Assembly was rather straightforward and mostly quiet operation.
#2

Under Desk Elliptical Machine, Electric Ellipse Leg Exerciser as Seen on Tv for Seniors with 12 Adjustable, Portable Quiet Elliptical Machine, Seated Pedal Exerciser with Remote Control (Orange)

Rating
10.0
Size and Dimensions
Resistance Levels
Portability

Most important from
3478 reviews

Size and Dimensions
Compact design allows for easy placement next to the bed for quick access.
Resistance Levels
The resistance levels offer a good range for varying workout intensity.
Portability
Lightweight and easy to carry, yet doesn't feel like it's going to fall apart.
Build Quality and Durability
This machine is incredibly sturdy and quiet, making it well worth the price.
Noise Level
Extremely quiet operation allows for distraction-free use.

The Putnen Under Desk Elliptical Machine is a versatile and compact option for those looking to stay active while seated, making it suitable for seniors, office workers, or anyone needing low-impact exercise. It offers both manual and auto modes with 12 adjustable resistance levels, allowing users to tailor their workouts to their needs. The machine is designed to enhance leg strength, blood circulation, and joint flexibility, which is beneficial for rehabilitation purposes as well. The forward and backward pedal movements add to its versatility in targeting different muscle groups.

Its quiet operation and compact size make it a good fit for home or office use without disturbing others. The LCD display and remote control are user-friendly features, providing real-time tracking of your exercise metrics and easy adjustments without straining your back. However, it’s worth noting that the remote control does not come with batteries, which you will need to purchase separately. The machine is constructed from alloy steel, ensuring durability, and it can support a maximum weight of 500 pounds, which is impressive for its size. While it is highly portable, weighing only 13.7 pounds, the maximum stride length is 20 inches, which might be limiting for some users looking for a more extensive range of motion.

The lifetime after-sales service and three-month return policy provide additional peace of mind. This elliptical excels in portability, noise reduction, and ease of use, but may fall short for those needing longer stride lengths or a more comprehensive initial setup.

Rating
10.0
Size and Dimensions
Resistance Levels
Portability

Most important from
3478 reviews

Size and Dimensions
Compact design allows for easy placement next to the bed for quick access.
Resistance Levels
The resistance levels offer a good range for varying workout intensity.
Portability
Lightweight and easy to carry, yet doesn't feel like it's going to fall apart.
Build Quality and Durability
This machine is incredibly sturdy and quiet, making it well worth the price.
Noise Level
Extremely quiet operation allows for distraction-free use.
#3

Niceday Elliptical Machine, Elliptical Trainer for Home with Hyper-Quiet Magnetic Driving System, 16 Resistance Levels, 15.5IN Stride, 400LBS Weight Capacity

Rating
9.4
Stride Length
Resistance Levels
Console and Display

Most important from
3397 reviews

Stride Length
The 15.5-inch stride length may feel short for some users, especially those over 6 feet tall, giving an impression more like a stair stepper.
Resistance Levels
The magnetic resistance dial is positioned low, which can make adjustments during workouts slightly inconvenient.
Console and Display
One downside is that the device holder covers the monitor, especially when using larger devices like tablets.
Build Quality and Durability
The machine is sturdy and feels heavy-duty, capable of supporting up to 400 lbs without any wobbling during intense workouts.
Noise Level
This elliptical operates very smoothly and quietly, perfect for a home environment where noise can be an issue.

The Niceday Elliptical Machine is designed for home use, making it a solid option for those looking for a compact and efficient workout solution. One of its standout features is the ultra-quiet magnetic driving system, which ensures a peaceful exercise experience, allowing you to work out at any time without disturbing others, a great plus for apartment dwellers or shared living situations.

In terms of size, the elliptical has a compact footprint, measuring just 41.54" by 15.04". It's designed to accommodate users up to 6'4" with a 15.5-inch stride length, which is reasonable for a home elliptical and minimizes knee strain during workouts. With a 400-pound weight capacity and a sturdy steel frame, this machine is built to last and can support a variety of users.

The Niceday offers 16 resistance levels, catering to both beginners and more experienced users. This variety allows you to customize your workouts, whether you're focusing on cardio or strength training. The digital monitor is a helpful feature for tracking key statistics like time, speed, and calories burned, giving you insights into your progress.

Rating
9.4
Stride Length
Resistance Levels
Console and Display

Most important from
3397 reviews

Stride Length
The 15.5-inch stride length may feel short for some users, especially those over 6 feet tall, giving an impression more like a stair stepper.
Resistance Levels
The magnetic resistance dial is positioned low, which can make adjustments during workouts slightly inconvenient.
Console and Display
One downside is that the device holder covers the monitor, especially when using larger devices like tablets.
Build Quality and Durability
The machine is sturdy and feels heavy-duty, capable of supporting up to 400 lbs without any wobbling during intense workouts.
Noise Level
This elliptical operates very smoothly and quietly, perfect for a home environment where noise can be an issue.

Buying Guide for the Best Compact Ellipticals

Choosing the right compact elliptical can be a game-changer for your fitness routine, especially if you have limited space. Compact ellipticals are designed to provide a full-body workout while taking up less room than traditional ellipticals. When selecting the best compact elliptical for you, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your fitness needs and space constraints. Here are the key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.
Size and DimensionsSize and dimensions are crucial because they determine how much space the elliptical will occupy in your home. Compact ellipticals are designed to be smaller, but they still vary in size. Measure the space where you plan to place the elliptical and compare it to the dimensions of the models you're considering. If you have very limited space, look for the smallest dimensions that still offer a comfortable stride length.
Stride LengthStride length refers to the distance between the pedals when they are at their farthest apart. This spec is important because it affects the natural feel of your workout. A shorter stride length (under 14 inches) is suitable for shorter individuals or those with limited space, while a longer stride length (18-20 inches) is better for taller users or those looking for a more natural running motion. Choose a stride length that matches your height and workout preference.
Resistance LevelsResistance levels determine how challenging your workout can be. More resistance levels offer greater flexibility in adjusting the intensity of your exercise. Compact ellipticals typically have between 8 to 20 resistance levels. If you're a beginner, fewer levels might be sufficient, but if you want to progress and challenge yourself over time, look for a model with more resistance options.
Flywheel WeightThe flywheel weight affects the smoothness and stability of your workout. A heavier flywheel (over 15 pounds) provides a smoother and more stable motion, which is important for a comfortable workout experience. Lighter flywheels (under 15 pounds) might be sufficient for beginners or those who prefer a less intense workout. Consider your fitness level and how smooth you want your workout to be when choosing the flywheel weight.
Console and DisplayThe console and display provide important workout information such as time, distance, speed, and calories burned. Some models also offer heart rate monitoring and pre-set workout programs. A clear and easy-to-read display can enhance your workout experience by keeping you informed and motivated. If you like tracking your progress, look for a model with a comprehensive console and display.
PortabilityPortability is a key feature for compact ellipticals, especially if you need to move the machine around or store it when not in use. Look for models with built-in transport wheels and a lightweight design. If you plan to move the elliptical frequently, ensure it is easy to maneuver and not too heavy.
Build Quality and DurabilityBuild quality and durability are important for ensuring your elliptical lasts a long time and can withstand regular use. Look for models made from high-quality materials with a sturdy frame. Reading user reviews can also give you an idea of the machine's durability. If you plan to use the elliptical frequently, investing in a well-built model is essential.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important consideration if you live in an apartment or plan to use the elliptical while others are around. Some ellipticals are designed to operate more quietly than others. If noise is a concern, look for models that are specifically marketed as quiet or have user reviews mentioning low noise levels.

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