NordicTrack FS14i -- Best Overall Elliptical
The NordicTrack FS14i is a free-stride elliptical, meaning the stride length adjusts automatically based on how you move rather than being locked to a fixed arc. This allows the machine to function as an elliptical, a treadmill, and a stair climber in a single unit. The result is a more natural movement pattern that adapts to your stride rather than the other way around.
Check price on Amazon →Top elliptical trainers of 2026 ranked by stride feel, resistance range, build quality, and value. Best picks for home gyms from compact budget models to premium cardio machines.
An elliptical trainer gives you a full-body low-impact workout that challenges both the upper and lower body simultaneously. The best home ellipticals in 2026 span a wide range: compact folding models for tight apartments all the way to commercial-grade units for serious training. The five picks below cover that range and are selected for stride feel, build quality, and how well they hold up after years of regular use.
Note: Consult a physician before starting any new exercise program, particularly if you have existing joint injuries or cardiovascular conditions.
| Product | Best For | Rating |
| — | — | — |
| NordicTrack FS14i | Full-stride home gym | 4.9/5 |
| Schwinn 470 | Mid-range value | 4.7/5 |
| Sole E35 | Smooth stride quality | 4.8/5 |
| ProForm Carbon EL | Budget connected training | 4.5/5 |
| Bowflex Max Trainer M9 | High-intensity intervals | 4.7/5 |
How we test
We compare every pick against the field on real specifications, certifications, and aggregated owner reviews. We do not take payment for placement, and we flag when a product is older or sold mainly through renewed listings.
At a glance
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordicTrack FS14i -- Best Overall Elliptical | Check price | ||
| Sole E35 -- Best for Stride Quality | Check price | ||
| Schwinn 470 -- Best Mid-Range Elliptical | Check price | ||
| ProForm Carbon EL -- Best Budget Connected Elliptical | Check price | ||
| Bowflex Max Trainer M9 -- Best for High-Intensity Cardio | Check price |
The picks, reviewed
NordicTrack FS14i -- Best Overall Elliptical
The NordicTrack FS14i is a free-stride elliptical, meaning the stride length adjusts automatically based on how you move rather than being locked to a fixed arc. This allows the machine to function as an elliptical, a treadmill, and a stair climber in a single unit. The result is a more natural movement pattern that adapts to your stride rather than the other way around.
Sole E35 -- Best for Stride Quality
The Sole E35 is built around a 20-inch fixed stride that suits most adult users and 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. Resistance adjusts across 20 levels via an eddy current brake system that requires no friction contact.
Schwinn 470 -- Best Mid-Range Elliptical
The Schwinn 470 packs 29 programs, 25 resistance levels, and 10 incline positions into a machine that regularly sells for. The dual LCD display shows multiple metrics simultaneously without requiring a subscription. Bluetooth connectivity links to the Schwinn app and third-party fitness apps including Apple Health and MyFitnessPal.
ProForm Carbon EL -- Best Budget Connected Elliptical
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. The stride length is 18 inches, which is shorter than mid-range competitors and best suited to users under 5 feet 10 inches tall.
Bowflex Max Trainer M9 -- Best for High-Intensity Cardio
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.
What to look for
What to consider
Stride length is the most important comfort spec. Users under 5 feet 8 inches typically find 18 to 20 inches comfortable. Taller users generally prefer 20 to 22 inches. A stride that is too short forces a choppy, unnatural movement pattern that reduces workout comfort and efficiency.
What to consider
Drive position affects the motion feel: rear-drive ellipticals produce a more natural, inclined walking motion. Front-drive models tend to have a more upright, compact stride. Center-drive machines (less common) provide a very upright posture. Resistance range matters for long-term fitness progression; 20 or more levels give room to increase difficulty as fitness improves. Decide before buying whether a connected subscription service is something you will use, as it significantly affects which models offer the best value.
What to consider
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What to consider
For more fitness equipment guidance, see our review of how we evaluate home gym gear at our [methodology page](/methodology). Also check out the [best ellipticals for small spaces](/articles/best-consumer-reports-elliptical) and explore other cardio options in our [sports and fitness section](/articles/best-consumer-reports-electric-lawn-mower).
FAQs
Most standard ellipticals need a floor area of roughly 6 to 7 feet long by 2.5 feet wide, plus 2 feet of clearance on all sides for safe use. Compact and front-drive ellipticals can fit in as little as 4.5 by 2 feet of floor space. Always check the assembled dimensions in the product specifications, as stride length directly affects the machine's footprint.
Ellipticals are generally considered lower impact than treadmills because they eliminate the heel-strike shock cycle that occurs with each running step. The continuous elliptical motion keeps feet in contact with the pedals throughout the stride, distributing force more evenly across the ankle, knee, and hip. This makes ellipticals a common recommendation for people managing knee or joint pain during cardio training.
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