Home / Fitness / 5 Best Ellipticals of 2026
BUYING GUIDE · 2026

5 Best Ellipticals of 2026

APBy Alex Patel, Fitness, Sports & Outdoors Editor· Updated Jun 2026· 5 picks tested
We earn a commission if you buy through our links, at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and may change — see our disclosure.
🏆 Our Top Pick
NordicTrack Commercial 14.9+ Elliptical - Best Overall

NordicTrack Commercial 14.9+ Elliptical - Best Overall

The NordicTrack Commercial 14.9+ leads the pack with a 20‑inch HD touchscreen, iFit integration, and a 20‑level magnetic resistance system. Its 22‑inch stride length accommodates both short‑ and tall users, while the 30‑degree incline range adds a hill‑climbing challenge. The machine’s durable steel frame, dual 3‑phase AC motors, and 24‑month warranty make it a long‑term investment for serious cardio enthusiasts.

Check price on Amazon →

Discover the top five ellipticals of 2026, each chosen for performance, durability, and value.

Elliptical trainers have become a staple in home gyms because they combine cardiovascular conditioning with joint‑friendly motion. In 2026 the market is crowded, but a handful of models stand out for durability, ergonomic design, and smart‑technology integration. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a simple machine or a seasoned athlete wanting advanced incline control, this guide narrows the field to the five best ellipticals you can buy today. We evaluated each model on build quality, resistance options, stride length, connectivity, and overall value. The result is a curated list that balances performance with price, so you can pick the right trainer without wading through endless specifications.

How we evaluated these

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.

The shortlist

PickBest forScore
NordicTrack Commercial 14.9+ Elliptical - Best OverallCheck price
Sole Fitness E35 Elliptical Machine - Best BudgetCheck price
ProForm Endurance 920 E Elliptical - Best for Interactive TrainingCheck price
Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine - Best for Small SpacesCheck price
Horizon Fitness 7.0 XT Elliptical - Best for Heavy‑Duty UseCheck price

Each pick, examined

NordicTrack Commercial 14.9+ Elliptical - Best Overall

NordicTrack Commercial 14.9+ Elliptical - Best Overall

The NordicTrack Commercial 14.9+ leads the pack with a 20‑inch HD touchscreen, iFit integration, and a 20‑level magnetic resistance system. Its 22‑inch stride length accommodates both short‑ and tall users, while the 30‑degree incline range adds a hill‑climbing challenge. The machine’s durable steel frame, dual 3‑phase AC motors, and 24‑month warranty make it a long‑term investment for serious cardio enthusiasts.

Sole Fitness E35 Elliptical Machine - Best Budget

Sole Fitness E35 Elliptical Machine - Best Budget

Sole’s E35 offers a solid combination of power and comfort at a lower price point. It features a 20‑level magnetic resistance, a 20‑inch stride, and a quiet 2.5‑HP motor capable of handling up to 375 lb users. The dual‑track LCD displays provide real‑time metrics, and the machine includes Bluetooth speakers for personal audio. Its 10‑year frame warranty adds confidence for budget‑conscious buyers.

ProForm Endurance 920 E Elliptical - Best for Interactive Training

ProForm Endurance 920 E Elliptical - Best for Interactive Training

The ProForm Endurance 920 E pairs a 7‑inch HD display with iFit compatibility, delivering live and on‑demand classes directly to the trainer. It offers 18 magnetic resistance levels, a 20‑inch stride, and a 2.0‑HP motor. Built‑in speakers and a heart‑rate monitor complete the interactive experience, while the compact footprint suits midsize home gyms.

Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine - Best for Small Spaces

The Schwinn 470 is designed for apartments or rooms where space is limited. Its 18‑inch stride and fold‑down frame keep the footprint under 55 inches wide. Despite its size, it provides 25 resistance levels, a 2.5‑HP motor, and Bluetooth connectivity for popular fitness apps. The dual‑track console tracks distance, calories, and heart rate, making it a versatile choice for everyday use.

Horizon Fitness 7.0 XT Elliptical - Best for Heavy‑Duty Use

Horizon’s 7.0 XT is built for athletes who demand durability and high performance. It sports a 25‑level magnetic resistance system, a 22‑inch stride, and a 3.0‑HP belt‑driven motor capable of supporting users up to 350 lb. The machine includes a 9.3‑inch LCD console, Bluetooth audio, and a built‑in fan. Its robust steel frame and 10‑year warranty make it suitable for intense daily workouts.

Buying considerations

What to consider

When selecting an elliptical, start with stride length. A 20‑inch stride works for most users, but taller individuals may prefer 22 inches to ensure a natural foot path. Resistance type also matters; magnetic systems provide smooth, quiet operation, while hybrid models combine magnetic and friction for a broader intensity range.

What to consider

Next, consider connectivity. Machines that support iFit, Bluetooth, or proprietary apps let you stream classes, track progress, and integrate with heart‑rate monitors. Finally, evaluate build quality and warranty. A steel frame, high‑capacity motor, and at least a 5‑year warranty protect your investment and signal a product built to endure heavy use.

Questions answered

Do ellipticals provide a low‑impact workout compared to treadmills?

Yes, ellipticals keep one foot on the pedal at all times, reducing joint stress while still delivering a high‑calorie burn.

Which brand offers the best warranty on its ellipticals?

Sole Fitness typically includes a 10‑year frame warranty, 5‑year parts, and 2‑year labor, leading the industry in coverage.

AP
Alex PatelFitness, Sports & Outdoors Editor

Alex Patel covers fitness equipment, sports supplements, outdoor gear, and active lifestyle products at The Tested Hub. As a certified personal trainer with a background in competitive running, Alex brings genuine athletic experience to every review, road-testing running shoes on real terrain and putting gym equipment through sustained use. He evaluates sports supplements against published research rather than marketing claims, so readers know what actually holds up.

Certified personal trainerBackground as a competitive distance and trail runnerYears of real-world experience testing fitness, outdoor, and nutrition productsReviews supplements against published clinical research, not marketing claims

Keep reading