Are you looking for a home trainer? You saw many pieces of equipment from a rickety cheap elliptical to a fancy one that costs thousands of dollars and didn’t know which is suitable, did you? In this article, we bring to you 8 best ellipticals under $1000 vary with a budget from low to high.
What can an affordable elliptical trainer provide you? Well, they don’t have jaw-dropping functions like some ellipticals in professional health clubs, but they’re definitely not a waste of money. They can serve well for light to moderate exercise, have good structure, and medium to long warranty in general. Based on many feedbacks and articles, below are the best ellipticals under $1000.
>>Related Post: Best elliptical under $500
Top 8 Elliptical under $1000 Reviews
PRODUCTS | MODEL | FEATURES | CHECK PRICE |
---|---|---|---|
Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine |
| Check Price | |
ProForm PFEL55916 Endurance 520 E Elliptical |
| Check Price | |
Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine |
| Check Price | |
ProForm Cardio HIIT Elliptical Trainer |
| Check Price | |
Exerpeutic Heavy Duty Magnetic Elliptical |
| Check Price | |
ProForm 150I Elliptical |
| Check Price | |
Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical |
| Check Price | |
ProForm Hybrid Trainer - Recumbent Bike Functionality |
| Check Price |
Below are detailed reviews of these Elliptical under $1000
1Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine
Specifications:
- Resistance Levels: 25
- Number of Programs: 29
- Stride Length: 20 inches
- Display: 2 DualTrack blue backlit LCD
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Speakers: Included
- Weight: 189.2 lbs
- Warranty: 10 years frame, 2 years mechanical parts, 1 year electronics, 90 days labor
The Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine is a wonderful investment for mid-level trainers. Although it gets quite close to $1000, it has the best functions that worth the price.
The most prominent feature of this model is Bluetooth connectivity which can work with Schwinn Trainer App and other popular fitness tracking apps such as MyFitnessPal, Explore the World, UA Record and so on to transfer data. This upgraded Bluetooth connectivity allows users to set, track and control their workout professionally.
The 189-pound-weight of the Schwinn 470 isn’t super lightweight but also not too heavy to be moved around your house. It even has speakers and USB port for interacting with your phone or tablet which makes working out at home more fun and convenient.
The 2 Blue Backlit LCDs can display 29 workout programs including 12 profile, 9 heart rate control, 4 custom, 2 fitness test, and 1 quick start. Plus, you have various intensity options with 25 resistance levels.
If you wonder about the warranty, you might check the information carefully. This model only has a 90-day warranty on labor, 1-year electronics so you should pay for extra warranty if you want a long-lasting assurance. But it still has 10-year frame and 2-year mechanical parts warranty so don’t worry!
Some users also complained that the clicking noise or squeaking is the one and only disappointing thing of this model.
Pros
- Bluetooth connection with fitness tracking app
- Speakers, MP3 port & USB charge
- 2 Blue Backlit LCDs displays
- 29 workout programs
- 25 resistance levels
- Precision Path foot motion technology simulates a natural running motion
Cons
- Quite expensive
ProForm PFEL55916 Endurance 520 E Elliptical
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 18
- Number of Programs: 18
- Stride Length: 19″ adjustable
- Display: 5 inch backlit display
- Bluetooth, Speakers: Included
- Weight: 207 lbs
- Warranty: 10-Year Frame, 1-Year Parts & Labor
The front drive ProForm PFEL55916 Endurance 520 E is built with 18 digital settings for resistance and an adjustable 19’’ striding path. This stride length and the oversized cushioned pedals fit better and more comfortable for tall people comparing to some ellipticals in this list.
This equipment includes 18 preloaded workout programs consisting of speed, calorie burn or incline training, etc. For unlimited exercises, you can subscribe to the iFit Coach to access the huge fitness library, experience personalized training and control your workout via Bluetooth. You can put your mobile device on the tablet holder to use the iFit together with the 5-inch LCD to follow your data.
The incline can be adjusted to five different positions from 0 to 20 degrees with just a simple action, allowing you to target specific muscle groups and thus, tone up your lower body more effectively. The built-in EKG grip pulse sensors will automatically monitor your real-time heart rate making training progress more accurate.
Pros
- Multiple Incline settings from 0 to 20 degrees to tone your muscles
- 19-inch stride length & oversized pedals
- EKG heart rate monitor
- Convenient and modern designiFit ready
- Weight capacity: 300lbs
Cons
- No built-in cooling fan
- Inertia flywheel is only 15lbs
Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 20
- Number of Programs: 22
- Stride Length: 20″
- Display: DualTrack 2 LCD screen display
- Bluetooth: No
- Speakers, Charging USB port : Included
- Weight: 207 lbs
- Warranty: 10-Year Frame, 1-Year Parts & Labor
If you fall in love with premium features of the Schwinn 470 but find it over budget, then the Schwinn 430 model is definitely a good deal for you. It has similar features to model 470 except the Bluetooth connectivity. Plus, it is lighter and more compact, so you can consider it as an economical option to replace model 470.
The Goal Track technology of this model allows users to set their specific goals and track their data while exercising. The maximum user weight is expanded to 300 pounds, making Schwinn 430 a well built heavy-duty elliptical trainer. 2 Dual Track LCDs displays 22 workout programs including 9 profile, 8 heart rate control, 2 fitness test, 1 quick start. There are 20 resistance levels and a six-position manual ramp. If you upgrade to the Schwinn 470 model, you will have more resistance levels and motorized ramp.
Moreover, just like Schwinn 470, the Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine has the 20″ Precision Path stride with foot motion technology, the cushioned footplates, and a high-speed drive system that provide a comfortable, smooth and natural running experience.
Some users who are considered really tall people send their complaints about the inconvenience they had with the stride and the handles. Some have to be careful with their knees and elbows while running, and some have to adjust their stride to fit the space of this machine.
Pros
- Maximum user weight: 300 lbs
- Goal Track to help users set individual goals
- Speakers, MP3 port & USB charge
- 2 DualTrack LCDs displays
- 22 workout programs
- 20 resistance levels
- Precision Path foot motion technology
Cons
- The size may make tall people feel inconvenient while exercising
- A bit of squeaking noise
ProForm Cardio HIIT Elliptical Trainer
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 325 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 24
- Number of Programs: 32
- Stride Length: 10″ Vertical, 5″ Horizontal motion
- Display: 7ʺ Backlit Display
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Speakers: Dual 2″ Speakers
- Weight: 187 lbs
- Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, and 1-year labor
ProForm Cardio HIIT Elliptical Trainer is proved to be a compact option because it only takes up half the space of a traditional elliptical machine. This model also includes 1-month iFit trial membership. Once the membership is activated, you can access the library of unlimited workout programs and global experiences.
The SMR, short for Silent Magnetic Resistance system, helps the machine run quietly for a long time with no friction. The cushioned pedals also contribute to giving you a smooth movement. The equipment also comes with a 1-year labor warranty, 2-year parts warranty, and 10-year frame warranty, which is a big plus comparing to other elliptical trainers in this list.
You will find your home-workout has no difference with Cardio HIIT exercises at a gym when going through 24 intense levels of resistance as you burn a lot of calories and develop full-body muscles. The exclusive 10-inch Vertical Climbing Path maximizes your workout for an increased calorie burn and an intense exercise.
All such great functions come at a price. But remember that this trainer is built for high-intensity workouts and integrated new technology, which can make you satisfied with a payment of approximately $1000.
Pros
- ½ the space of a normal elliptical
- The Silent Magnetic Resistance makes quiet and smooth operation
- Maximum user weight up to 325 lbs
- 24 resistance levels
- 10-inch Vertical Climbing Path increases calorie burn
- Long warranty
Cons
- Quite expensive
Exerpeutic Heavy Duty Magnetic Elliptical
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 8
- Number of Programs: –
- Stride Length: 13″
- Display: 3. 4″ LCD display
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Speakers: No
- Warranty: 1 Year limited
Another nominee for the best elliptical under $1000 is the low-cost Heavy Duty Magnetic Elliptical from Exerpeutic. This trainer is capable of handling user weight up to 300 pounds with heavy-duty steel frame construction. You will have 8 different magnetic tension resistance levels to choose from for your workout.
The Exerpeutic Heavy Duty Magnetic Elliptical comes with 2 options: with or without Bluetooth. The Bluetooth edition with free MyCloudFitness app available on Android and iOS helps track your workout via your mobile devices. You can set 3 types of goals via this App: time, distance, and calories burned.
The Dual Action Workout Arms feature offers an upper-body fitness routine that firms your entire body. Plus, you will have a 3.4″ large LCD display indicating distance, calories burned, time, speed, pulse, and scan. At two sides of the screen located hand pulse providing heart rate monitoring.
Some users had commented that this trainer has a steep incline/angle which hurt their toes and knees so maybe we do not recommend this model for big guys.
Pros
- Bluetooth app tracking option
- 8 Magnetic tension resistance levels
- Dual Action workout arms
- Lightweight & Compact
- Low-cost
Cons
- Not suitable for tall people
- Short warranty
ProForm 150I Elliptical
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 12
- Number of Programs: 12
- Stride Length: 17″
- Display: large LCD display
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Speakers: Included
- Weight: 127 lbs
- Warranty: 5 year frame warranty and 90 day parts & labor warranty
The ProForm 150I Elliptical is designed for a simple workout with 12 resistance levels, 12 workout programs, and 250-pound weight capacity. It can give you a pretty good sweat when you can’t go outdoor.
This model comes with a front-drive design, 17-inch stride length, oversized pedals, and an Inertia enhanced flywheel for a comfortable workout. The iPod compatible audio, transport wheels together with water bottle holder helps to create a more convenient experience, too. Imagine you will get all of these outstanding features for only over $300 – what a good deal!
Plus, you can train anywhere and access any workout program in the world with iFit powered by Google maps through a large LCD screen, but the equipment requires a $15 per month subscription. The 5-year frame and 90-day parts & labor warranty can also be a minus when comparing to those of other ellipticals in this list.
Pros
- Cost-effective
- Quite lightweight
- Compact & Convenient
- EKG heart rate monitor in real-time
- Front-drive design, 17-inch stride length, oversized pedals
- Large LCD display
Cons
- Short warranty
- AC adapter is not included
Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Resistance Levels: Variable
- Number of Programs: –
- Stride Length: 13″
- Display: LCD display
- Bluetooth, Speakers: No
- Adjustable Seat and Handles: Yes
- Weight: 110.9 lbs
- Warranty: 1-Year Full Warranty
The Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical has won the prize for best recumbent elliptical under $1000. Its price is not cheap compared to others in this review, it is considered as a mid-range trainer with some special features over budget ones.
The Dual motion allows you to isolate your legs or arms to distribute muscle exertion and avoid muscle burn out, or incorporate muscle groups totally at the same time to build strength and burn more calories. Your workout will become more effective, time-saving with better results.
The patented stride technology, with a natural stepping stride that follows a linear path, delivers zero-impact workout which is less stressful on the joints and back while still provides intensive cardio exercise.
This model also has a smart and convenient design. The digital console helps you hold your phone or tablet easily while the heavy-duty mat protects the floor and prevents dust and debris from accumulating into the machine. In addition, the Friction-Free Magnetic Linkage System tested to over 2.3 million cycles assures long-lasting use and smooth and quiet operation. Plus, for a more comfortable experience, you can adjust the seat height and recline settings or rotate the handles with one simple action. You can also do this to adjust the LCD’s position, too.
Last but not least, be aware of the assembly because there are too many parts and some parts don’t have labels.
Pros
- Convenient & Smart Design
- Patented stride technology
- Durability
- Quiet operation
- Small footprint
- Dual power motion for crossing training
Cons
- Hard to assemble
ProForm Hybrid Trainer - Recumbent Bike Functionality
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 16
- Number of Programs: 16
- Stride Length: 15″
- Display: Large LCD
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Speakers: Included
- Weight: 116.84 lbs
- Warranty: 5-Year Frame; 90-Day Parts & Labor
Proform seems to be the most famous brand in producing best ellipticals under $1000. The ProForm Hybrid Trainer is not only one of them but also a buy 1 get 2 deal. This model consists of an elliptical and a recumbent bike providing a flexibility and diversity fitness routine at home. You can take advantage of the oversized cushioned pedals, the 15-inch stride, and the soft-touch upper body grips to work out both your upper and lower body in one exercise. Therefore if you love the dual power motion of the Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross but find it a little over budget, you must try this ProForm’s model out.
Like the Cardio HIIT and the 150I models, the Hybrid Trainer features iFit membership benefits, but credit card is required after trial period. You can experience a strong and effective exercise with 16 resistance levels and maximum weight capacity up to 350 pounds. This trainer also has a large LCD screen to keep track of your workout. The water bottle holder keeps your body hydrated and the transport wheels located at the base of the equipment help you move the trainer easily to anywhere in your house.
The budget-class of ProForm has the same short warranty, 5 years for frame and 90 days for parts and labor, which is a disadvantage when buying cheap elliptical trainers.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Dual functionality: normal elliptical and recumbent bike
- Weight capacity up to 350 lbs
- EKG Grip Pulse Sensors estimate heart rate quickly
- Adjustable & cushioned pedals
- Music plug-in & 2-inch speakers
Cons
- Short warranty
- Squeaking
Features to Consider When Buying an Elliptical under $1000
If you are searching for a machine which can help you train equally each part of your body, an elliptical may be a way out. Though, finding a high-quality one but still affordable is not an easy task. This review will help you find out the best ellipticals under $1000, but first, the one you need must meet those features below so that its quality is assured.
Resistance
As the price rises up to $1,000, the resistance levels on offer are vast, they can extend up to 25 levels. This allows you to adjust between many levels. It depends on your physical conditions or your goals that you can switch among several resistance levels. You can begin with a light workout from the get-go and then increase the level to strengthen your muscles effectively. While lower-budget ellipticals only allow some adjustments, midrange models may be more flexible.
Adjustable Incline
If an elliptical has an adjustable incline, it can take the role of a cross-trainer. It will be very beneficial if you can adjust the incline because you can work on various muscles and varies your ways of workout.
Programs
Anyone can get bored if they stick to only one program every single day. An elliptical with many programs will give you the way out of this boredom. Getting a machine which has built-in programs, you will have a vast selection of workout level and can change them whenever you’d like.
LCD Display
When you afford an elliptical, a display seems to be a must-have since it helps you keep track of your workout by displaying mileage, calories burned, heart rate, time and other measurements. It would be better if the LCD display designed with an LED-backlit display so that you can see the measurements clearly in both low and bright light conditions.
Weight Capacity
It depends on your weight that you’d go for different types of ellipticals. Usually, you can fit in many machines if you weight less than 250 pounds. If not, invest in the best home elliptical under 1000 may be a good choice because most of them can stand more than 300 pounds.
Stride Length
Usually, a 15’’ length is good enough for users. But if you are tall then you should find a machine with a long stride such as 20’’ length or more. It would serve you better. A good stride length will help you maintain the proper posture and facilitate your leg movement. The stride length is not the only feature to take care of when you choose an elliptical but it is amongst the most important ones. A right choice from the beginning will save you from sending back your elliptical because it doesn’t fit you.
Adjustable Foot Pedals
Adjustable articulating/pivoting foot pedals can be a wonderful replacement for natural stride motions and keep you far from getting hurt. You can find some with large pedal surface space to make sure it fits your feet no matter how large they are. The brand Sole Fitness has equipped its item with a two-degree inward slope that they state it would reduce stress on your knees and ankles, keeping you from unnecessary injuries.
Quiet Operation
You would definitely not want to be disturbed while working out so it is necessary to possess an elliptical which can work smoothly without making annoying noises. A high-quality elliptical is the one that has silent operation even when operating intense workout.
Warranty
In the long run, a great warranty is what keeps customers feel secure. Seek for long-lasting warranty and remember to check out every aspect of it to make sure how long and how far the warranty would cover your unit. Take the Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine as an example. Though it is one of the top models, its warranty is still very trustworthy since it covers each part of the machine for up to 10 years.
Elliptical under $1000 – FAQ
Q: Why use an elliptical cross trainer?
A: An elliptical cross trainer is able to simulate such activities as running, stair climbing and working but they would not cause pressure to your joints; therefore decrease the risk of injury. In this way, people with some prior injuries can still use the elliptical cross trainer if they want to stay healthy. Besides, working out at home may save busy people a lot of time. Using an elliptical cross trainer, they can burn more calories in much less time compared to outdoor activities.
Q: Do ellipticals help lose belly fat?
A: Yes, it does. You can work on your whole body or focus on your belly by adjusting the ellipticals. A number of 140-150 calories can be burnt only in about 30 minutes working out on the ellipticals. How amazing!
Q: Which is Better – Treadmill or Elliptical?
A: Though treadmills are still great for some reasons, people usually go for ellipticals because of their low-impact workout. Additionally, an elliptical is more suitable for a full-body workout. If you want to lose weight, ellipticals must be smarter choices.
Conclusion
This list consists of overall winners when it comes to the best elliptical under $1000. The filtering points which should affect your buying decision are warranty, work out program, resistance level, Bluetooth/Internet connectivity, etc. The 8 machines listed above have different strengths and they all can provide healthy smooth striding for most users to hit their total-body fitness goals. But remember that they are best ellipticals under 1000, which is mid-level, that’s mean they are not flawless. Do not overwork the machine and make sure you buy one that is perfect for your size and suitable for your essential needs.