Best Elliptical Machines 2026
Low-impact elliptical trainers for joint-friendly cardio.
Our Top Picks
Full Rankings
3G Cardio Elite EM X Elliptical Trainer
Best OverallAdjustable 3-position stride (18/20/23") with 26.4 lb flywheel and 32 resistance levels in a compact 49.2" stored footprint. 350 lb capacity and 5-year parts warranty back serious build quality.
Pros
- ✓Adjustable stride (18/20/23")
- ✓32 resistance levels
- ✓Compact stored footprint (49.2")
Cons
- ✗Premium price (~$1,999)
- ✗No integrated touchscreen ecosystem
- ✗Limited third-party reviews
SOLE E25 Elliptical
Best PremiumSOLE's lifetime frame/flywheel warranty and 20 resistance + 20 power incline levels deliver proven durability. 20" stride and 350 lb capacity in a well-documented package.
Pros
- ✓Lifetime frame/flywheel warranty
- ✓20 resistance + 20 incline levels
- ✓350 lb weight capacity
Cons
- ✗Large footprint (70" x 24" x 70")
- ✗Basic 7.5" LCD display
- ✗Heavy (209 lbs)
Niceday 19IN Elliptical
Best ValueFeature-dense with 16 resistance levels, 20-level power incline, and 18 lb flywheel—plus 400 lb capacity and 5-year warranty at an aggressive price point.
Pros
- ✓16 resistance + 20 incline levels
- ✓30 lb flywheel (smooth motion)
- ✓400 lb weight capacity
Cons
- ✗Limited manufacturer documentation
- ✗Newer brand with fewer reviews
- ✗63" length is sizable
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Elliptical
Best BudgetBudget-friendly with 24 built-in programs and computer-controlled electro-magnetic resistance from an established brand. 3-year frame warranty and works unplugged.
Pros
- ✓Very affordable ($649.99)
- ✓24 built-in workout programs
- ✓Computer-controlled resistance
Cons
- ✗Shorter 15.5" stride
- ✗Budget-tier display/console
- ✗13.2 lb flywheel (lighter class)
Niceday CT11PRO-20 Elliptical
Most compact footprint in the group (42.5" x 22") with a full 20" stride and non-electric magnetic drive. Ideal for apartments without nearby outlets.
Pros
- ✓Most compact footprint (42.5" x 22")
- ✓20" stride despite small size
- ✓No power outlet needed
Cons
- ✗Only 1-year warranty
- ✗Lighter 18 lb flywheel
- ✗Basic display and console
Score Comparison
| Product | Motion Quality 35% | Build Quality 25% | Features 20% | Footprint 10% | Value 10% | Weighted Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#13G Cardio Elite EM X Elliptical Trainer | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8.60 | $1999 |
#2SOLE E25 Elliptical | 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 8 | 7.80 | $1099 |
#3Niceday 19IN Elliptical | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 7.75 | $799 |
#4Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Elliptical | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 6.85 | $649.99 |
#5Niceday CT11PRO-20 Elliptical | 7 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 6.75 | $999.99 |
Buying Guide
Ellipticals provide low-impact, full-body cardio. Consider stride length (20" for most users), resistance levels, incline options, and footprint. Front-drive machines are more compact.
What We Evaluate
Motion Quality
Smoothness and natural feel
Build Quality
Frame stability
Features
Incline, resistance, programs
Footprint
Space efficiency
Value
Features per dollar
Our Testing Methodology
We evaluate ellipticals based on stride smoothness, flywheel quality, build durability, feature density, and real-world footprint. Specs are verified across Amazon listings, manufacturer documentation, and established fitness reviewers.
Learn more about how we test →