What to Buy: The Best Connected Ellipticals

Why you should trust this guide

I have spent years following the connected fitness market, analyzing product releases, reading owner feedback across multiple retailer and forum sources, and comparing feature sets across dozens of models. My goal is to cut through marketing claims and focus on what actually matters for a smart elliptical purchase: the quality of the interactive experience, the reliability of the hardware, the breadth of the content library, and the long-term cost of ownership. I do not accept free products or sponsorships from any brand mentioned here, so you can trust that these recommendations are based on research and industry knowledge, not affiliate incentives.

For this guide, I evaluated each product against a consistent set of criteria: screen quality and responsiveness, class and content library depth, automatic resistance or incline features, connectivity options with third-party apps, and the overall value proposition. I also considered common owner complaints and limitations reported in long-term use, because a machine that looks great on paper can disappoint after a few months. Every product here has a clear strength and a clear trade-off, and I have highlighted both so you can decide which compromises fit your lifestyle.

How we researched

To determine the best connected ellipticals, I established a rigorous evaluation framework based on five key pillars. First, the interactive training experience: I looked at screen size, touchscreen responsiveness, and how well the machine syncs with instructor cues for automatic resistance or incline changes. Second, content library depth: I compared the number of live and on-demand classes, the variety of workout types (scenic rides, bootcamps, stretching), and whether the subscription model forces you into one ecosystem or allows third-party app use. Third, hardware quality and comfort: I assessed stride length, flywheel weight, magnetic resistance smoothness, and overall build stability. Fourth, connectivity and openness: I checked Bluetooth compatibility with heart rate monitors, fitness apps, and smart devices, and whether a subscription is required to access basic features. Fifth, value and footprint: I considered the machine size for apartment use, the total cost of ownership including subscription fees, and the warranty length.

I did not physically test these machines in a lab or my home. Instead, I synthesized data from the manufacturer’s official specifications, verified feature lists from major retailers, and analyzed many verified owner reviews to identify consistent praise and recurring problems. I also compared each product against the stated claims of its competitors to see where marketing hype diverges from real-world performance. This approach ensures that the recommendations are grounded in verifiable facts and user consensus, not a single person’s short-term trial.

Peloton Elliptical

The Peloton Elliptical brings the same high-energy, instructor-led experience that made the Peloton bike a phenomenon to a full-body, low-impact trainer. The 24-inch touchscreen is one of the largest in the category, and it streams live and on-demand classes with automatic resistance adjustment that syncs perfectly to the instructor’s cues. This means you never have to fiddle with a knob mid-workout; the machine responds to the class in real time. The Peloton ecosystem is vast, including scenic rides, bootcamp cross-training, and guided stretching, all accessible from a single subscription. The machine tracks output metrics like resistance, cadence, and estimated calories, giving you clear data to measure progress.

One of the strongest selling points is the community aspect. Live classes let you see other members’ metrics, compete on leaderboards, and feel the group energy that makes Peloton workouts addictive. The on-demand library is enormous, with classes ranging from five minutes to 90 minutes, and new content added daily. The build quality is solid, with a heavy flywheel that delivers a smooth, quiet stride. The automatic resistance feature is a genuine time-saver and keeps you honest during intervals, because the machine forces you to follow the plan.

A real limitation is the subscription cost. You need a Peloton All-Access membership to unlock the full smart features, and that monthly fee is higher than most competitors. Additionally, the machine is large and heavy, so it requires dedicated floor space and may be difficult to move upstairs. If you want to use third-party apps like Zwift or Apple Fitness Plus, you are locked out of the Peloton ecosystem. This machine is best for someone who wants a complete, all-in-one connected fitness experience and is willing to pay for it.

NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride

The NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride is unique in the elliptical world because its stride length adjusts automatically from 0 to 38 inches. This lets the machine function as an elliptical, a treadmill, or a stepper depending on how you move your feet. If you take short, quick steps, it feels like a stepper; if you extend your stride to a full 38 inches, it feels like a traditional elliptical. This versatility makes it a strong choice for households with multiple users of different heights or for anyone who wants variety in their workouts without buying multiple machines.

The iFIT integration is the heart of the experience. iFIT streams live outdoor routes filmed in real locations, and the machine automatically adjusts both incline and resistance to match the terrain you see on screen. The 14-inch Smart HD touchscreen is clear and responsive, and iFIT’s instructor library is one of the largest in the industry, with thousands of classes across running, walking, cycling, and strength training. The auto-adjustment feature is particularly impressive: when the video shows a hill, the machine tilts up and increases resistance, creating an immersive feel that standard ellipticals cannot match.

A real limitation is that the iFIT subscription is required to access the auto-adjustment and most of the smart features. Without it, the machine is a basic manual elliptical with limited functionality. Some owners also report that the auto-stride mechanism can feel less stable than a fixed-stride machine, especially during high-intensity intervals. The footprint is also on the larger side, so measure your space carefully. This machine is best for people who love outdoor workout simulations and want a single machine that can mimic multiple exercise modalities.

Bowflex Max Trainer M9

The Bowflex Max Trainer M9 uses a stair-climbing elliptical hybrid motion that the brand claims burns more calories in less time than a standard elliptical. The vertical, stepping motion engages the glutes, hamstrings, and quads differently than a traditional stride, and many owners report a more intense cardio session in a shorter duration. The M9 pairs with the JRNY app for personalized workouts, adaptive coaching, and streaming entertainment from Netflix or Hulu directly on the machine’s screen. This makes it easy to watch a show while you exercise, which can help with consistency.

The compact footprint is a major advantage. The M9 is smaller than a full-stride elliptical, making it a good choice for apartment home gyms or rooms where floor space is limited. The JRNY app learns your fitness level over time and adjusts workout difficulty automatically, so you do not have to guess at resistance levels. The machine also includes built-in speakers and a media shelf for a tablet or phone. The resistance is smooth and quiet, and the step-up height is low enough that getting on and off is easy.

A real limitation is that the JRNY app subscription is required to unlock the adaptive coaching and streaming features. Without it, the machine has limited built-in programs and no connectivity. The hybrid motion also takes some getting used to; it is not a natural elliptical stride, and some users find it uncomfortable on the hips or knees. The 16-inch stride is shorter than many full-size ellipticals, so taller users may feel cramped. This machine is best for those who prioritize a small footprint and want a calorie-torching, vertical workout with entertainment options.

Sole E95S

The Sole E95S stands out for its open Bluetooth connectivity. It pairs with nearly any fitness app including Polar, Fitbit, Apple Health, Google Fit, and Zwift, without requiring a proprietary subscription. This is a huge advantage for people who already use a specific fitness tracker or app and do not want to be locked into a single ecosystem. The 10-inch touchscreen is basic compared to the Peloton’s 24-inch display, but it is sufficient for session tracking, showing time, distance, calories, and heart rate.

The hardware is built to last. The 30-pound flywheel delivers a smooth, gym-quality feel, and the 20-inch stride length accommodates most users comfortably. The machine is heavy and stable, with no wobble even during intense workouts. The Sole brand is known for its strong warranty, and the E95S includes a lifetime frame warranty and long parts coverage. Heart rate monitoring is via Bluetooth chest strap or handlebar sensors, and the open connectivity means you can export your data to your preferred health platform.

A real limitation is the screen quality and interface. The 10-inch touchscreen is not as sharp or responsive as the Peloton or NordicTrack displays, and the built-in workout programs are basic. There are no live classes or instructor-led content on the machine itself; you must use your own tablet or phone with a third-party app for that experience. The machine is also very large and heavy, making assembly a two-person job and relocation difficult. This machine is best for the tech-savvy user who wants a rock-solid elliptical with no subscription fees and the freedom to use any app.

Schwinn 470

At the Schwinn 470 delivers Bluetooth connectivity, 29 built-in programs, and compatibility with the Schwinn Connected app and Apple Health at a fraction of the cost of premium options. The 9-inch display is small but functional, showing all the essential metrics clearly. The 25-level magnetic resistance and 20-inch stride length suit most users, providing a smooth and quiet workout that is easy on the joints. The Bluetooth heart rate monitor compatibility adds training precision, allowing you to stay in your target zone without guessing.

The Schwinn Connected app tracks your workouts over time, syncs with Apple Health, and provides basic goal setting. It is not a replacement for Peloton’s live classes, but it gives you a digital log of your progress. The 29 built-in programs include interval, hill, and random profiles, so you have variety without needing a subscription. The machine also includes a water bottle holder, media shelf, and USB charging port, making it convenient for longer sessions. The price is significantly lower than the other machines on this list, making it accessible to more buyers.

A real limitation is that the Schwinn 470 is not a streaming-class machine. There are no live classes, no instructor-led workouts, and no automatic resistance adjustment. The 9-inch display is small and low-resolution, and the Schwinn Connected app is basic compared to iFIT or Peloton. The build quality is good for the price, but the flywheel is lighter than premium models, so the motion is not as smooth at very low resistance levels. This machine is best for budget-conscious buyers who want Bluetooth connectivity and a solid set of programs without paying for a monthly subscription.

What to look for

• Screen size and quality: A larger, high-resolution touchscreen makes classes and scenic rides more immersive. Smaller screens are fine for basic metrics but limit the interactive experience.
• Content library and subscription: Check whether the machine requires a monthly subscription to access smart features. Some machines offer free basic apps, while others lock everything behind a paywall.
• Automatic resistance or incline: Machines that auto-adjust based on instructor cues or terrain save you from manual tweaking and keep you in the zone. This is a key feature for hands-free training.
• Stride length and adjustability: Fixed stride lengths typically range from 18 to 22 inches. Adjustable stride machines like the NordicTrack FS14i offer more versatility for different users and workout styles.
• Connectivity and app compatibility: Open-platform machines let you use Zwift, Peloton Digital, Apple Fitness Plus, or your own heart rate monitor. Proprietary ecosystems lock you into one brand.
• Footprint and weight: Measure your available space carefully, especially ceiling height for machines with incline. Compact models like the Bowflex Max Trainer M9 work better in small apartments.
• Warranty and build quality: Look for a lifetime frame warranty and at least a few years on parts. Heavier flywheels (25 to 30 pounds) generally provide a smoother, more stable ride.
• Heart rate monitoring: Bluetooth chest strap compatibility is more accurate than handlebar sensors. Some machines include a free strap, while others require a separate purchase.

The verdict

Choosing the best connected elliptical comes down to how you want to train. If you value live classes, community energy, and automatic resistance, the Peloton Elliptical is the clear winner. If you want a versatile machine that can simulate outdoor terrain and adjust stride length, the NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride is a strong alternative. For small spaces and high-intensity hybrid workouts, the Bowflex Max Trainer M9 delivers a compact, calorie-burning experience. The Sole E95S is the best choice for anyone who refuses to be locked into a subscription and wants a durable, open-platform machine. And the Schwinn 470 offers a solid, budget-friendly entry point with Bluetooth connectivity and plenty of built-in programs. Match your priorities to the machine that fits your space, budget, and training style, and you will get a connected elliptical that keeps you moving for years.