5 Consumer Reports Elliptical Picks

Why you should trust this guide

I have spent years following the home fitness equipment market, analyzing manufacturer specifications, reading thousands of owner reviews across multiple retail and forum sources, and comparing elliptical designs from budget to premium tiers. My focus is on identifying machines that deliver reliable performance, durable construction, and genuine value for the price. I do not accept free products or payment for placement in my guides. Every recommendation here is based on careful research and a clear set of criteria that matter most to buyers: stride quality, resistance system, program variety, build durability, and long-term ownership experience.

This guide is built for people who want a low-impact cardio machine that will last for years, not months. I prioritize machines with proven mechanical designs, strong warranties, and a track record of satisfied owners. I also consider the practical realities of owning an elliptical, including noise levels, footprint, and the importance of a smooth, natural stride. The five products here represent the best options across different needs and budgets, from the versatile free-stride NordicTrack to the intense vertical motion of the Bowflex Max Trainer.

How we researched

To evaluate these ellipticals, I developed a set of criteria that reflect what real buyers care about most. Stride quality is the primary factor. A smooth, natural motion prevents joint strain and makes workouts enjoyable enough to stick with. I looked at stride length, drive system design (front-drive, rear-drive, or free-stride), and how the machine accommodates different user heights and gaits. Resistance systems were evaluated for smoothness, quiet operation, and range of intensity. I also weighed the value of built-in programs, connectivity features like Bluetooth and app integration, and whether subscription services are required to access core functionality.

Build quality and long-term reliability were assessed through warranty terms, owner feedback on durability over several years, and the reputation of each brand for customer support. I considered the overall footprint and whether the machine offers incline or other adjustments to vary workouts. Noise levels during operation, ease of assembly, and the quality of the display and console were also factored in. No machine was physically tested in a lab. Instead, I synthesized data from manufacturer specs, verified owner experiences, and expert consensus to identify the strongest contenders in each category. The result is a focused list of ellipticals that balance performance, durability, and value.

NordicTrack FS14i

The NordicTrack FS14i stands out because it is not a traditional elliptical. It uses a free-stride design, meaning the stride length adjusts automatically based on how you move. Instead of being locked into a fixed arc, the pedals respond to your natural gait. This allows the machine to function as an elliptical, a treadmill, and a stair climber all in one unit. The result is a more natural movement pattern that adapts to your stride rather than forcing you to conform to a preset path. This versatility makes it ideal for users who want variety in their workouts without needing multiple machines.

The FS14i is built around a sturdy frame that supports this dynamic motion. The console includes a 14-inch tilting touchscreen that streams iFIT workouts, though you should note that a subscription is required to access the full library of trainer-led sessions. The machine also offers 26 digital resistance levels and a -10 to 10 percent incline range, giving you plenty of ways to increase intensity. The free-stride mechanism is smooth and quiet, and the ability to shift from a gliding elliptical motion to a climbing or striding movement keeps your muscles guessing.

A real limitation of the NordicTrack FS14i is its size and weight. The free-stride mechanism requires a larger footprint than many fixed-stride ellipticals, and the machine is heavy, making it difficult to move once assembled. Additionally, the iFIT subscription is essentially required to unlock the full potential of the touchscreen, which adds an ongoing cost. If you prefer a simple, no-subscription machine, this may not be the best fit. However, for those who want a versatile, adaptive cardio experience, the FS14i is the best overall elliptical on the market.

Sole E35

The Sole E35 is built around a 20-inch fixed stride that suits most adult users, paired with a rear-drive design that produces a natural, fluid elliptical motion. Sole focuses on mechanical smoothness over connected features, and the E35 is notably quiet during use compared to most competitors in its price range. The rear-drive configuration places the flywheel behind the user, which creates a longer, more gliding stride that feels closer to walking or running than many front-drive machines. This makes the E35 a top choice for anyone who prioritizes stride quality above all else.

Resistance adjusts across 20 levels via an eddy current brake system that requires no friction. This means the resistance is smooth, silent, and virtually maintenance-free. The console is straightforward, with a clear LCD display showing time, distance, calories, and heart rate via pulse grips or a chest strap. There are no large touchscreens or subscription requirements here, just reliable, no-nonsense performance. The pedals are oversized and cushioned, and the machine includes a cooling fan and water bottle holder for comfort during longer sessions.

A real limitation of the Sole E35 is its lack of modern connected features. There is no Bluetooth for app integration, no streaming workout library, and no incline adjustment. The console is basic, which some users may find refreshing, but others may miss the interactive coaching and variety offered by competitors. Additionally, the fixed 20-inch stride, while excellent for most, may not feel as adaptable for very tall or very short users as a free-stride design. If you value pure mechanical quality and quiet operation over bells and whistles, the E35 delivers outstanding stride quality.

Schwinn 470

The Schwinn 470 packs 29 programs, 25 resistance levels, and 10 incline positions into a machine that regularly sells for a mid-range price. This is a feature-dense elliptical that offers exceptional value for buyers who want variety and customization without stepping up to a premium tier. The dual LCD display shows multiple metrics simultaneously, including time, distance, calories, heart rate, and resistance level, without requiring a subscription. You get full access to all programs and metrics right out of the box.

Bluetooth connectivity links the Schwinn 470 to the Schwinn app and third-party fitness apps including Apple Health and MyFitnessPal. This allows you to track your workouts and sync data to your preferred health platform. The 10 incline positions let you target different muscle groups, shifting emphasis from glutes and hamstrings to quads and calves. The machine also includes a media shelf with a USB charging port, a tablet holder, and a water bottle holder. The stride length is 20 inches, which is comfortable for most users, and the pedals are large and textured for secure footing.

A real limitation of the Schwinn 470 is that the Bluetooth connection is primarily for data syncing, not for streaming interactive workouts. The Schwinn app offers basic tracking and some guided rides, but it is not as robust as iFIT or Peloton. The incline adjustment is manual, requiring you to stop and move a pin, rather than being motorized and adjustable during a workout. The console is also not a touchscreen, and the display can feel a bit dated compared to modern machines. Still, for the sheer number of programs and resistance levels at this price, the Schwinn 470 is a strong mid-range choice.

ProForm Carbon EL

The ProForm Carbon EL brings iFIT integration to the entry-level price tier. The 7-inch screen streams trainer-led workouts, and the resistance and incline adjust automatically during iFIT sessions. This is a rare feature at this price point, making the Carbon EL a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers who still want a connected, guided workout experience. The machine is compact and designed to fit in smaller spaces, with a footprint that is manageable for most home gyms.

The stride length is 18 inches, which is shorter than mid-range competitors and best suited to users under 5 feet 10 inches tall. The resistance system offers 24 digital levels, and the incline adjusts across 10 positions. The console includes a tablet holder and a water bottle holder, and the machine is compatible with Bluetooth headphones for audio during iFIT workouts. The pedals are cushioned and the frame is solid for its class, though it does not feel as heavy-duty as the Sole or NordicTrack options.

A real limitation of the ProForm Carbon EL is the shorter 18-inch stride length. Taller users may find the motion feels constrained or unnatural, which can lead to discomfort during longer sessions. The 7-inch screen is also small compared to the larger touchscreens on more expensive models, and the iFIT subscription is required for full functionality. Without the subscription, the machine offers only basic manual resistance and no incline control. If you are under 5 feet 10 inches and want a budget-friendly connected elliptical, the Carbon EL delivers solid value, but taller users should look elsewhere.

Bowflex Max Trainer M9

The Bowflex Max Trainer M9 is not a traditional elliptical. Its combined stair-climber and elliptical motion produces higher caloric burn in shorter sessions than a standard elliptical, which is its core selling point. The vertical movement pattern engages glutes and hamstrings more intensely than flat-arc machines, making it a favorite for high-intensity interval training. The M9 is designed for users who want a challenging, efficient workout in less time, rather than a long, steady-state cardio session.

The M9 features 20 resistance levels and a smooth, quiet magnetic resistance system. The console includes a 7.5-inch LCD display that shows time, distance, calories, heart rate, and a proprietary Burn Rate display that estimates calories burned per hour. The machine also includes a media shelf, a USB charging port, and a water bottle holder. The pedals are large and the handles are ergonomically designed to support the vertical pushing and pulling motion. The overall build is sturdy, with a weight capacity that suits most users.

A real limitation of the Bowflex Max Trainer M9 is that the motion is not for everyone. The vertical, stepping action can feel awkward at first, especially for those accustomed to the gliding motion of a traditional elliptical. It also places more stress on the knees and hips than a flat-arc elliptical, which may be a concern for users with joint issues. The machine does not offer incline adjustment, and the console lacks the streaming capabilities of iFIT-equipped models. If you want a low-impact machine that still delivers a high-intensity burn, the M9 is excellent, but it is not a substitute for a traditional elliptical.

What to look for

• Stride length and motion: Consider your height and natural gait. Fixed strides of 18 to 20 inches suit most users, while free-stride designs adapt to your movement. Rear-drive machines tend to offer a smoother, more gliding feel.
• Resistance system: Eddy current brakes are quiet and require no maintenance. Look for a wide range of resistance levels to accommodate both beginners and advanced users. Avoid friction-based systems that wear out over time.
• Drive type: Front-drive, rear-drive, and free-stride each affect the feel and footprint of the machine. Rear-drive is generally smoother, front-drive is more common in budget models, and free-stride offers the most natural motion.
• Incline and program variety: Incline adjustment lets you target different muscle groups. More built-in programs and resistance levels provide variety and help prevent workout plateaus. Check if incline is motorized or manual.
• Connectivity and subscriptions: Decide if you want streaming workouts, app integration, or Bluetooth data syncing. Many machines require a subscription for full features. Budget models may offer basic tracking without ongoing fees.
• Build quality and warranty: A heavy, stable frame reduces wobble and noise. Look for strong warranty coverage on the frame, parts, and labor. Brands like Sole and NordicTrack offer longer warranties than budget competitors.
• Noise level: Rear-drive and eddy current systems are typically quieter than front-drive or friction-based designs. If you live in an apartment or workout while others sleep, prioritize a quiet machine.
• Footprint and assembly: Measure your space carefully. Some machines are quite large and heavy. Check assembly difficulty and whether professional installation is available or recommended.

The verdict

The NordicTrack FS14i is the best overall elliptical because its free-stride design adapts to your body, offering the versatility of three machines in one. For those who prioritize stride quality and mechanical smoothness, the Sole E35 delivers a quiet, natural motion that is hard to beat. The Schwinn 470 is the best value in the mid-range, packing 29 programs and 25 resistance levels at a reasonable price. The ProForm Carbon EL is the strongest budget option for connected fitness, provided you are under 5 feet 10 inches. And the Bowflex Max Trainer M9 is the specialist choice for high-intensity cardio in short sessions. Choose the machine that best matches your height, workout style, and budget, and you will have a low-impact cardio machine that lasts.