Since they were introduced, elliptical trainers have slowly but surely become one of the best low-impact fitness machines for fitness enthusiasts. By its design, ellipticals offer lower and upper body high-intensity workouts with zero stress on the knees, ankles, back, and hips. However, a peculiar characteristic of the first designs was that they were bulky and expensive.
Over the years, these elliptical trainers have been manufactured in different designs and sizes. As the elliptical trainers found their way into homes, their popularity skyrocketed. However, with different brands offering several models, making a choice can be hard.
Although larger commercial elliptical trainers are known to be expensive, you do not necessarily have to break the bank to buy one for your home. There are several options when considering the best elliptical under $1000.
The article takes the stress off your shoulders by pointing you in the right direction. It highlights the ten best ellipticals under 1000 and a detailed buying guide to help narrow down the options.
Contents
- 1 How to choose The Best Elliptical Under 1000
- 2 List Of The Top 3 Best Elliptical Under 1000
- 3 10 Best Ellipticals Under 1000
- 3.1 Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 - Smart Home Elliptical Under 1000
- 3.2 Teeter FreeStep LT1 - Best Recumbent Elliptical Under 1000
- 3.3 Schwinn Fitness 470 - Best Home Elliptical Under $1000
- 3.4 Bowflex M3 Max - Best Elliptical Trainer Under 1000
- 3.5 ProForm - Hybrid Recumbent Elliptical Under 1000
- 3.6 Niceday - Best Rated Ellipticals Under 1000
- 3.7 Nautilus E616 - Best Commercial Elliptical Under 1000
- 3.8 Horizon Fitness 7.0 AE - Advanced Elliptical Under 1000
- 3.9 ProForm PFEL55920 Carbon EL - Compact Elliptical Under 1000
- 3.10 SOLE Fitness E20 - Commercial Indoor Elliptical Under 1000
- 4 FAQ
- 5 Conclusion
How to choose The Best Elliptical Under 1000
There’s nothing wrong with trying to save cash by buying affordable fitness machines. If you can afford more than the Under $500 budget ellipticals, you ought to consider them. However, buying an elliptical under 1000 doesn’t necessarily mean you have to compromise on the quality of the machine.
When buying the best elliptical under 1000, here are four main features you may need to consider.
Adjustability
This feature offers a range of options to choose from. In addition, it makes it easy for fitness trainers to personalize workout routines. In terms of adjustability, these are the four major features to watch out for when buying the best elliptical machine under 1000.
Incline
Think of an elliptical trainer’s incline like walking or running up or down a slope. The exercise intensity increases when walking or running up a slope and decreases when walking or running down the slope. To give the effect of outdoor exercises, elliptical trainers have an incline feature that allows trainers to adjust the incline levels they want.
Incline adjustment can either be manual or motorized. A motorized incline is preferred to a manually adjustable incline since it can be done without the trainer stepping down from the machine. Ellipticals come with incline levels from 0 to 20 degrees. Most of these ellipticals under 1000 usually come with a range of 0 to 10 degrees. For the price, this range is still enough to get the desired intense workout.
Resistance
Unlike bouncing your foot off the ground in outdoor walking and running, ellipticals are designed to create tensions or resistance that your feet would have to overcome. An increased resistance level on an elliptical trainer means you’ll have to exert more pressure on the feet. This creates more calorie-burn and muscle-toning effects.
Ellipticals under 1000 may not come with the highest resistance grades, but it comes with enough to get the job done. A good resistance level should range from 1 to 20. There are elliptical models under 1000 that still offer as high as 25 resistance settings. This allows trainers to adjust the machine’s tension as they see fit.
Stride
The farthest distance between the feet when walking or running is known as the stride length or distance. To ensure comfort when on ellipticals, trainers must use a stride length that’s easy to work with or one with an adjustable stride length. For example, shorter trainers would require shorter stride ellipticals than taller trainers.
When buying an elliptical under 1000 for home gym use, it’s best to buy one with an adjustable stride length. This will make it easy for individuals of different heights to work on the same machine.
Handlebar
The best ellipticals have movable and stationary handlebars to guarantee a total upper and lower body workout. The pull and push action on the movable handlebars targets the muscle groups of the biceps, triceps, and pecs. The stationary handlebars help support the trainer when they want to focus on the lower body.
The stationary handlebars are occasionally fitted with grip sensors to help track and monitor heart rate and pulse. A good elliptical trainer under 1000 must come with both sets of handlebars to ensure total body workouts.
Programs
Many elliptical models come with preset and manual workout programs to help trainers get desired results. These programs help set, track, and monitor workout performance. In addition, different elliptical trainer brands offer different numbers of programs.
In addition, some of these models come with wireless or Bluetooth connectivity features that allow trainers to enjoy workout programs from top fitness apps like iFit, MyFitnessPal, etc. So to get the best features when buying ellipticals under 1,000, look out for those offering workout programs and fitness apps connection.
Durability
The construction material used in designing the elliptical will go a long way in determining its durability. One of the fears of trainers is that elliptical machines can often break down within a few years. However, you do not always need to settle for expensive machines to overcome this.
For instance, an elliptical constructed with steel would have more durability than that made from plastic. When buying elliptical machines under 1000, it’s best to go with the one designed with sturdy construction. It may make the machine a bit heavier, but at least you’re guaranteed durability.
Warranty
As a follow-up to the machine’s durability, it’s best to settle for elliptical brands that offer longer warranties on their models. Elliptical machines are made up of numerous parts, which increases the likelihood of things breaking down and needing repairs. A short warranty gives the impression the brand isn’t confident in the quality and durability of the product. When buying ellipticals under 1,000, ensure to get one with an average to long warranty. It’s always better to be on the safe side than to be sorry later on!
List Of The Top 3 Best Elliptical Under 1000
- Material: Steel
- Tension System: Electro-Magnetic
- 16 Levels of resistance
- Hand pulse monitor
- Transportation wheels
- Multifunctional digital monitor
- Textured non-slip foot pedals
- Floor Stabilizer
- Item Dimensions: 50 x 26 x 12 inches
- Item Weight: 104.8 Pounds
- Material: Steel
- Commercial-Grade Engineering
- Friction-free Magnetic Resistance
- 13 Levels of Variable Resistance
- Battery-powered digital console
- Reclining Seat, Seat Height and Handle Adjustments
- Transport Wheels
- Item Dimensions: 54 x 29 x 52.5 inches
- Item Weight: 106 Pounds
- Maximum User Weight: 300 Pounds
- Material: Steel
- Explore the world and discover 50 plus global routes
- Motorized adjustable ramp
- 25 levels of resistance
- 20" Precision Path Stride
- 29 workout programs
- DualTrack blue backlit LCD system
- Contact & Telemetry Enabled
- Item Dimensions: 51 x 34.5 x 22 inches
- Item Weight: 186 Pounds
- Maximum user weight: 300 Pounds
10 Best Ellipticals Under 1000
- 15.5" stride length
- 24 built-in programs
- 15.4 lbs flywheel
- Floor stabilizers
- Digital monitor
- 16 levels of magnetic resistance
When it comes to health and fitness gym equipment, Sunny Health & Fitness stands out amongst the best in the game. Unsurprisingly, they have models like the SF-E3912 priced affordably for fitness trainers on a budget.
The SF-E3912 operates with a magnetic resistance mechanism. It has dimensions of 55x24x64.5 inches (LxWxH). It also has a maximum user weight of 330 lbs. The model is offered with a 3-year structural frame warranty and 180 days warranty for parts and components.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Summary
The SF-E3912 has features like many other ellipticals within the same price range. Therefore, it is a good choice when looking for budget ellipticals.
- Connects to SunnyFit app
- Smooth elliptical motion with 15.4 lbs flywheel
- 24 pre-programmed workout programs
- 16 resistance levels
- Digital monitor for tracking workout performance
- Short structural frame warranty
- Short 15.5" stride length
- 13 levels of variable resistance
- 15.4 lbs flywheel
- 8-position handle adjustability
- Adjustable seat
- Patented stride technology
- Transportation wheels
One look at the Teeter FreeStep LT1 gives the impression of a machine built for total body workout. The FreeStep LT1 is designed to take the stress off trainers joints and backs. It is the only patented physical therapy machine designed for home use. Yet, all of its features are available at an affordable price. It’s no surprise it makes it in the list of the best elliptical under 1000.
Teeter FreeStep LT1 Elliptical Summary
The Teeter FreeStep LT1 is an easy, all-round, full-body workout machine. It is easy on the joint and designed for home gym use. It has a footprint of 54 x 29 x 52.5 inches (LxWxH) and weighs 106.9 lbs. This makes it easy to assemble, relocate, and store. Trainers can choose between 13 variable magnetic resistance and enjoy its patented stride technology for maximum workout experience.
- Versatile muscle targeting
- Whisper-quiet motion
- Adjustable seat
- Digital performance monitor
- Patented stride technology
- 1-year warranty
- No built-in workout programs
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 10° adjustable motorized incline
- 2 DualTrack blue backlit LCD screens
- 29 preset workout programs
- 20" Precision Path Stride
- Media rack and speakers
Schwinn Fitness 470 elliptical delivers a low-impact, total body workout with superb features. As one of the best elliptical trainers under 1000, trainers can get an amazing fitness experience without breaking the bank. It delivers 25 digital resistance levels and a 20″ stride length.
In addition, its enhanced Bluetooth connectivity feature offers easy connection to fitness data apps for more workout variety. Some of these fitness apps include Explore the World, GoogleFit, and MyFitnessPal.
Schwinn Fitness 470 Elliptical Summary
When compared to some other ellipticals in the same price range, the 470 elliptical stands out tall with its features. It comes with an adjustable 10° incline and 25 resistance levels. This gives good workout intensity and results. In addition, it has a maximum user weight of 300lbs.
- Enhanced Bluetooth connectivity
- 10° adjustable motorized incline
- Contact and telemetry feature
- 29 workout programs
- Up to 4 user profile settings
- Short labor warranty
- Fixed 20" stride length
- Calories burned data display
- 8 levels of resistance
- 2 built-in workout programs
- Interactive backlit display
- Up to 2 user profiles
- Transport wheels
The M3 Max Trainer is an entry-level elliptical for the Bowflex brand. It is one of the hottest selling Bowflex ellipticals for its perfect blend between an elliptical and a stepper. It is the go-to fitness equipment to burn calories and target different muscle groups without fear of joint stress and injuries.
The Bowflex M3 Max trainer comes with amazing modern features that cater to the fitness needs of beginners and intermediate fitness trainers.
Bowflex M3 Max Trainer Summary
As with other models, the Bowflex M3 Max trainer has excellent calorie-burning and muscle-toning capabilities. This compact machine comes in a simple design that can fit into any workout space. It’s a great option for fitness beginners and intermediates. It has a maximum user weight limit of 300 lbs.
- Excellent blend of elliptical and stepper
- Easy to read and interactive display
- Wireless heart rate monitoring through the chest strap
- Compact design
- Transport wheels for easy relocation
- Short 1-year warranty
- Only 8 levels of resistance
- 14 workout apps
- Soft-touch upper body handlebars
- SMR Silent Magnetic Resistance
- 14 resistance levels
- EKG grip pulse
- 15" elliptical stride length
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer blurs the lines between a recumbent elliptical and a recumbent exercise machine. It offers trainers more options and comfort for a low-impact cardio workout masterpiece. It comes in a beautifully crafted design that allows for easy transition between workout options. It comes with an adjustable console with a large LCD screen to ensure comfort during transition.
ProForm Hybrid Elliptical Summary
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer is a budget-friendly option for beginners and intermediate trainers looking for a good low-impact workout machine. It offers basic and more features like a tablet holder and adjustable leveling feet. It has 63x26x76 inches (LxWxH) dimensions and a recommended maximum weight capacity of 350 lbs.
- 2 workout options as a recumbent bike and elliptical
- iFit enabled
- Adjustable oversized pedals
- Integrated sound system
- EKG grip pulse sensors
- Fair structural frame warranty
- Short stride length for tall trainers
- 16 resistance settings
- 15.5" elliptical stride
- 90% assembled
- 16 lb flywheel
- Exactly calculated data
- 400 lbs recommended maximum weight capacity
The Niceday Elliptical Machine is a great choice for beginners and expert fitness enthusiasts. It is the best home elliptical under $1000 because it delivers above-average features for the price. If you’re looking for a hyper-quiet elliptical for home gym use, this elliptical from Niceday should fit right into your budget. Additionally, you wouldn’t have to break a sweat in assembling the machine as it comes 90% pre-assembled.
Niceday Elliptical Summary
Although Niceday seems to be a new entrant into the elliptical world, compared to older players/brands, it offers a competitive machine with this model. Moreover, it offers superb features for the price, especially with its increased maximum weight capacity of 400 lbs.
- Hyper-quiet magnetic drive system
- Ideal for 4'9" to 6'2" trainers
- The digital monitor displays Exactly calculated data
- 16 resistance levels
- Maximum user weight of 400 lbs
- No workout programs
- Basic console
- 29 workout programs
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 20" Precision Path Stride
- 25 resistance levels
- Motorized incline
- Articulating footplate and media tray
The Nautilus brand has over four decades of experience in designing fitness machines. The Nautilus E616 Elliptical Trainer is a mid-range option from the brand to cater to the needs of trainers looking for affordable ellipticals.
Nautilus E616 Elliptical Summary
The Nautilus E616 Fitness Trainer offers a quality, low-impact, full-body workout. For a mid-range elliptical, the features are above-average. Trainers control their workout intensity with its adjustable incline and resistance features. However, the 300 lbs maximum user limit is low for an elliptical of its size and reputation.
- Included chest strap for heart rate monitor
- USB charging port
- 25 levels of resistance
- Bluetooth enabled
- 10° adjustable motorized incline
- No lifetime warranty
- Low maximum weight limit
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Advanced power incline 20 levels, 0-100%
- 20" stride length
- 20 magnetic resistance grades
- Built-in speakers
- Tablet rack
The Horizon Fitness 7.0 AE Elliptical Cross Trainer truly reflects the brand’s durability and fitness product functionality. It comes in a heavy aluminum frame material, giving it a sturdy construction. It delivers a fluid elliptical motion drive system with its 23 lbs flywheel. With 20 resistance levels to match the drive system, the model is ideal for all levels of trainers.
Horizon Fitness 7.0 AE Elliptical Summary
The Horizon 7.0 AE Elliptical can accommodate users with a weight limit of up to 325 lbs. It also offers heart rate monitoring with its hand grip pulse sensors on its handlebars. In addition, trainers can choose between any fitness apps or watch a movie by placing their tablet on a table holder. All in all, it is a solid choice for a mid-range elliptical.
- 7" LCD Screen and 16 Digit Alphanumeric LED
- Compatible with Android and Apple fitness apps
- 23 lbs flywheel
- 20 incline levels
- 20" stride length
- Fair LCD screen size
- Long stride for short trainers
- iFit 30-day trial membership
- Bluetooth connectivity
- EKG Grip Pulse Heart Rate Sensor
- 20" adjustable incline with 5 positions
- 19" stride length
- Audio Auxiliary Port with Dual 2" Speakers
Accomplish more than just a regular low-impact workout with the ProForm PFEL55920 Carbon EL Elliptical. Its interactive workout sessions take trainers through picturesque trails and adventures to combat boredom. For a more personalized fitness experience, work with iFit trainers through 18 resistance settings. Save and monitor workout performance with its Bluetooth-enabled feature to connect to fitness apps.
ProForm PFEL55920 Carbon EL Elliptical Summary
The ProForm PFEL55920 Carbon EL Elliptical is a great elliptical under $1000 that offers impressive workout intensities with its incline and adjustable resistance features. Trainers have a wide range of workout routines and instructors with the iFit app. It has an EKG grip pulse sensor to help track heart rate and pulse. It has a maximum user limit of 275 lbs.
- Front-mounted transportation wheels
- 15 lbs Inertia-Enhanced flywheel
- iFit workout trainers
- 20" adjustable incline
- Bluetooth enabled
- Manual incline adjustment
- Basic console
- 14.4 lbs flywheel
- 5.5" LCD screen
- 18" stride length
- 20 resistance levels
- 5 workout programs
- Built-in cooling fan and water bottle holder
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly elliptical designed for a home gym fitness experience, the Sole Fitness E20 ranks amongst the best today. It doesn’t over-promise but delivers exceptionally well with its features. It is designed with a heavy 38mm steel material that gives it a sturdy design. For a varied workout experience, it comes with 5 workout programs and 20 grades of resistance.
SOLE Fitness E20 Elliptical Summary
The SOLE Fitness E20 is one of the most affordable models from the SOLE brand. It comes with all the basic features and a bit more for trainers. As a result, it is an ideal apartment-type elliptical that wouldn’t take up much floor space. Although it comes with a lightweight flywheel of 14.4 lbs, it offers an above-average range of resistance grades.
- Easy and simple assembly
- 20 resistance settings
- 5.5" backlit LCD screen
- 18" stride length
- 5 workout programs
- Non-adjustable pedals and console
- Light flywheel
FAQ
1. Is it worth buying an elliptical under 1000?
Yes, it is, depending on the model you buy. Several elliptical manufacturers offer ellipticals with impressive features with even a price range under 1000.
2. Are ellipticals under 1,000 good for losing weight?
Yes, they are. Many of these best elliptical machines under 1000 offer amazing low-impact, calorie-burning results. You have to choose the elliptical with the right blend of resistance grades and incline.
3. What is a good inexpensive elliptical machine?
The Nautilus E616 Elliptical Trainer fits the bill on this one. It offers above-average features and benefits and is priced under $1000. In addition, it ticks all boxes in adjustable resistance levels, incline, stride, and handlebars categories.
Conclusion
When most fitness enthusiasts think about the best elliptical under 1000, they often think they’ll be compromising on the quality and efficiency of the workouts. To provide for all levels of fitness trainers, brands offer affordable elliptical options with just the right features to go with them.
Knowing the best elliptical under $1000 can be confusing for someone without the necessary experience. The guide helps simplify things by selecting the best in today’s elliptical market.
