12 Best Elliptical Under 1000 in 2025 – Budget Ellipticals with Best Performance

It is very easy to promise yourself of getting into shape. But you know what’s not easy? Putting in the actual effort and staying consistent with it. Even with the best intentions, people fail to take care of their bodies properly.

That’s where an elliptical machine comes into the discussion. An elliptical machine is the most sought-after workout machine at any fitness center. But you don’t need to wait in line at the gym for your turn anymore because you can easily get the best elliptical under 1000 in your home.

By doing great aerobic exercise regularly with an elliptical machine, you can tone your whole body and keep yourself absolutely fit with so much ease.

Benefits of Using an Elliptical Machine

There is no better way to stay healthy than working out regularly by hopping on an elliptical machine. While there are tons of benefits of a good elliptical, we’ll discuss only some of the major ones here.

• Improves Cardiovascular Health and Stamina

The best inexpensive elliptical will give you a great aerobic workout and get your heart pounding. If you just spend 20-30 minutes on it, your heart will pump much harder and strengthen the heart muscles.

A moderate-intensity session every day will not only strengthen the heart but also will improve your cardio stamina. When your lungs get used to working extra hard pumping oxygen to your body, you’ll notice the improvement in your stamina levels.

• Burns Calories and Loses Weight

The universal key to losing weight is to burn more calories than you consume. And since an elliptical machine combines many motions into one, it can burn between 150 to 400 calories within only half an hour.

A cardio machine like this engages your whole body to boost your calorie burn. A perfect workout might help you lose up to a whopping 800 calories, and that’s a lot of fat burning. In this way, an elliptical will tone up your muscles and belly in no time.

• Less Joint Stress

Elliptical machines are impact-free and don’t send a jolt to your joints with every step. With this machine, your feet never lift off the pedals, and thus you have a low impact cardio workout without the wear and tear that comes with high-impact exercises.

• Improves Blood Circulation and Reduces HBP

Another really great advantage of working out with an elliptical is that it greatly improves the blood circulation. Better circulation of blood boosts your immunity, reducing the risk of a chronic sickness.

Having low-intensity workouts on a regular basis can have a positive effect on hypertension too.

Besides, when you have moderate to high-intensity workouts, the blood sugar and insulin level is perfectly moderated in your body. This reduces high blood pressure and the symptoms of type 2 diabetes.

• Tones Your Whole Body

An elliptical trainer works on both your upper and lower body simultaneously. It engages your legs, core, abs, biceps, triceps, and almost all other major parts of your body. There is no other workout machine that lets you work your whole body at once other than an elliptical.

12 Best Ellipticals Under $1000 - Quick Comparison Chart

Elliptical Trainer	Resistance Levels	Stride Length	Programs	Max. User Weight	Heart Rate Control	Available
Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine	16	18″	13	300 lbs.	Wireless Chest Strap	View on Amazon
Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical	8	15	N/A	300 lbs.	N/A	View on Amazon
Exerpeutic Heavy Duty Magnetic Elliptical	8	Not specified	N/A	300 lbs.	Grip Pulse Sensors	View on Amazon
Body Rider BRD2000 Elliptical	Turn of a knob	13”	N/A	250 lbs.	Yes	View on Amazon
Bowflex M3 Max Trainer	8	N/A	2	300 lbs.	Wireless Chest Strap	View on Amazon
ProForm Cardio HIIT Trainer	24	10” Vertical, 5” Horizontal	32	325 lbs.	Grip Pulse Sensors	View on Amazon
ProForm Hybrid Trainer	16	15″	16	350 lbs.	Grip Pulse Sensors	View on Amazon
Body Power StepTrac BST800 Elliptical Stepper	8	Unspecified	N/A	250 lbs.	Grip Pulse Sensors	View on Amazon
ProForm PFEL55916 Endurance 520 E Elliptical	18	19″	18	300 lbs.	Grip Pulse Sensors	View on Amazon
Efitment E006 Magnetic Elliptical Machine Trainer	8	13″	N/A	220 lbs.	Grip Pulse Sensors	View on Amazon
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical	8	11″	N/A	220 lbs.	Grip Pulse Sensors	View on Amazon
Body Champ BRM3671 Cardio Dual Trainer	16	14″	12	250 lbs.	Grip Pulse Sensors	View on Amazon

Best Ellipticals Under $1000 Reviews

Out of hundreds of ellipticals in the market, we have handpicked only a few, based on some important considerations which will be discussed later. Let’s have a look at the reviews.

1. Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine

Packed full of features, including heart rate monitoring and Bluetooth, the Schwinn is one of the most respected companies in the cardio equipment business. With over four decades of experience, the company has finally built one of the best elliptical machines under 1000.

Most people working out at home do not have a dedicated gym space. Realizing quickly the need for a compact elliptical trainer, Schwinn has brought its 411 model,which is one of the most compact machines you’re going to find.

This elliptical has a very small footprint compared to other front-drive elliptical trainers. Its elliptical boasts an 18″ stride length, which is one of the longest stride lengths in this price bracket.

Its 5.5″ backlit LCD monitor includes both wireless heart rate capability and Bluetooth. However, you’ll need to separately buy a heart rate chest strap to use the wireless heart rate feature. Besides, its handlebars have pulse sensors too.

Schwinn 411 provides 16 levels of smooth magnetic resistance. You’ll enjoy light pedaling tensions in the first few levels. But as you work your way up to the top level, you’ll get to achieve a high cardiovascular rate in a very short time.

The system additionally includes a ton of workout programs that focus on your heart rate and other cardio challenges. Itsconsole monitor will also show stats such as speed, distance, time, and calories burned, etc.

Weighing approximately 100 lbs. along with the four adjustable feet stabilizers, the machine ensures excellent stability. Its structural frame made of steel tubing can support users up to 300 lbs.

2. Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical

For a budget-friendly home fitness machine, the Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer is a great choice. It is designed to offer you a safe and low-impact workout.

When you sit back in the comfortable seat, it takes a lot of pressure off your knees and lower back. This is a perfect trainer for anyone with body injury issues.

Rapidly becoming one of the more popular recumbents, the Teeter FreeStep excels at comfort for its users. Its adjustable seat allows you to adjust the height and recline positions independently, giving you a better chance of finding a comfortable fit.

Besides, there is little chance of you injuring yourself through accident or bad technique with a recumbent cross-trainer like this. It has patented stride technology that is made to protect your knees by ergonomically correcting its path. The pedals are also large enough and cushioned, so you find comfort no matter your foot size.

The Teeter FreeStep comes with a simple digital LCD monitor that tracks and displays your workout metrics. Its attached table shelf lets you access any electrical device like a tab or mobile. Also, there is an easy-to-reach water bottle holder so that you don’t dehydrate yourself.

This trainer integrates a magnetic resistance system of 8 distinct levels with manual action. Its superior stability comes from the fairly heavyweight of approx. 110 lbs. (50 kg). The adjustable stabilizers with rubber pads at the rear base bar make it operate smoothly and quietly without being jerky or loud.

3. Exerpeutic Heavy Duty Magnetic Elliptical

Featuring ribbed texture for a comfortable footing and large pedal design, this workout trainer will tighten, tone, and strengthen your upper and lower body simultaneously.

The Exerpeutic elliptical also has 8 levels of magnetic resistance that you can adjust for challenging workout routines. Its heavy-duty steel frame supports up to 300 pounds weight.

In order to prevent the wobbling of the machine during the workout, it has a sturdy and flat base. Besides, the handle features anti-slip rubber padding, giving you a better grip. Additionally, the natural elliptical motion of the trainer will eliminate the possibility of bouncy movements too.

There is a simple 3.5″ LCD that informs you about the calories burned, time of workout, speed, and distance. The heartrate pads on the handlebars help you monitor your pulse.

But for viewing more information and to keep track of your workouts, you can use its Bluetooth option to install the free My Cloud Fitness app on your smartphone. It will also give you three workout goal choices to complete on your time.

4. Body Rider BRD2000 Elliptical Trainer and Exercise Bike

This Body Rider Elliptical is a dual trainer that allows you to use it both as an elliptical or as an exercise bike. It features a seat that greatly expands your workout potential.

A Body Rider trainee can stand on the pedals to perform an elliptical exercise and also can sit down and use the machine just like a bike. There are fixed handlebars for using them on the bike mode and also moving handlebars for the elliptical mode.

As for the resistance of the machine, the bike uses a chain that pulls on a fan. You can adjust the tension with a knob located over the fan wheel. A data monitor will show you information like speed, distance, the time elapsed, and approximation of calories burned.

The machine weighs 66 pounds and has a maximum weight capacity of 250 pounds, which is slightly less than other products in this elliptical review article.

Designed to provide its users with a low impact full-body workout, this hybrid elliptical trainer is best for a great cardio session. And because of its low impact, it is also a good choice for anyone suffering from back, hip, or leg problems.

5. Bowflex M3 Max Trainer

Widely well-reviewed by both owners and professionals, the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 is a beast when it comes to burning calories. Since both your upper and lower body gets equally engaged with this elliptical, it burns more calories faster than any of its competitors.

Known for its intense workout sessions, the M3 is a surprisingly low impact workout machine that doesn’t strain your muscles. You’ll notice a very low impact on the key areas of your body, which are usually prone to injuries, like the back, knees, and shins, etc.

Its 8 different resistance levels can be changed very easily with its twist-grip located on the right handlebar. By gradually cracking up the resistance as you build your stamina, you can get the most out of your workout sessions.

With a maximum user weight capacity of 300 lbs., which is the industry standard these days, this machine is very sturdy. It never wobbles as you crank up the resistance like those cheaply made machines often found in the market.

Max Trainer M3 has a backlit LCD below a dial-style calorie burn rate indicator. The only two workout programs it comes with are strong enough to show results too.

This Bowflex with its wireless chest strap for monitoring heart rate yields much better data, which is perfect for those who like to keep on top of their stats.

The large footpads give you much comfort. Besides, there is also a convenient cup holder and mount for your smartphone.

6. ProForm Cardio HIIT Trainer

The ProFormCardio HIIT trainer allows you to have the best HIIT sessions without any risk of damaging your body through harsh impact.

This cardio trainer is a cross between an elliptical machine and a StairClimber. It is able to exercise your whole body whether you take advantage of HIIT or train at a constant exertion level.

The ProFormhigh-intensity trainer allows you the fastest calorie burn because of its steeper slope and more vigorous upper-body exercise feature. Your feet will stay in contact with the pedals constantly, and the handlebars move with your arms with resistance.

Moreover, the perk of this great trainer is that it offers 24 distinct resistance settings accommodating a wide range of ability levels. This makes it suitable for beginners as well as professional fitness enthusiasts enough to challenge all levels of athletes.

Its 32 preloaded workout programs give you major benefits for building your body. Besides, all of these programs have been designed by a certified personal trainer.

The elliptical footpath impartsstep-like motion – moving 10 inches upward and five inches forward.Moreover, the foot pedal is also cushioned for extra comfort, and the handlebars are shaped for multiple grip positions.

Furthermore, the HIIT features 7 inches data screen is big enough to show you all the necessary stats at a time. It has a smart phone-compatible port and speakers. And there is also a grip pulse reader built into the handlebars for heart rate monitoring.

7. ProForm Hybrid Trainer

If you’re a budget-conscious shopper, then this economy priced ProForm Trainer could be a good pick. It is a versatile trainer that can be transformed from an elliptical trainer into a recumbent bike.

The trainer is designed for low-impact and light exercise, allowing you to perform cross-training on a single machine with a few simple adjustments. So, this ProForm offers you the best of both worlds if you’re at a loss as to which workout machine you want to buy.

Specially designed for weight loss as well as cardio training, this hybrid trainer features 16 workout programs. With 16 different resistance levels, the ProForm Hybrid Trainer willmaximize your workout progression.

Speaking of resistance, the system is magnetic, which means the trainer will be quiet enough and won’t bother people in your home.

As for the console, it is small in size and fairly basic and simple. But you’ll be able to get the essential feedbacks like speed, time, distance, and calories burned on it.

The console also has a sound system and a smartphone-compatible port. So, if you want to access the iFit app’s unlimited workout selection, you can easily do that by attaching your tablet computer to it.

8. Body Power StepTrac BST800 Elliptical Stepper

This machine from Body Power is a combination of an elliptical trainer and a stepper. Named as StepTrac with the model number BST800, this trainer offers you a slightly different pedaling motion than a standard elliptical.

The Body Power StepTrac BST800 has a very low center of gravity despite its heavy construction made of steel. It also has a set of wheels, making it easy for relocation by a single person.

This machine also provides excellent stability because of its adjustable stabilizers in the rear and rubber pads for extra grip in the front base. It is also quite compact in size and doesn’t take up too much space either.

The trainer also features a combination of cylindrical, rectangular, and triangular bars for improved aesthetics. It has two sets of handlebars, and the fixed ones have rubberized grips and metallic pulse sensors.

Its drive system is slightly different from the other ellipticals we’ve discussed as it features a large flywheel similar to a spin bike. Besides, it is equipped with a manual magnetic resistance that doesn’t require any external power source.

With 8 distinct tension levels, you can achieve a higher cardiovascular rate in a shorter period of time. Its console is equipped with a 3.5″ LCD that can track speed, RPM, time, distance,calories, and pulse.

9. ProForm PFEL55916 Endurance 520 E Elliptical

The ProForm Endurance 520E is designed as a great all-around piece of elliptical equipment. Made with commercial-grade steel, its body weight is around 200 lbs. Despite its weight, the machine has a lot of stability and doesn’t wobble while working out.

Like most other ellipticals, this one also features both fixed and mobile handlebars. The fixed handlebars include heart rate sensors, which is an important feature for any user who likes to monitor their heart activity regularly.

The super-sized pedals with cushioning accommodate users even with very big shoe sizes. Additionally, its front guards and ribbed surface adds to the extra foot stability.

Its manual incline adjustment system can only be changed if you pause your workout and step off the machine. But the great perk of the elliptical is its stride length, which is 19 inches. Most of the home ellipticals have much less than this.

The Endurance 520 E also features a current resistance system that requires a power source to adjust the tension. Consisting of an internal magnetic brake and a servo motor, the system has 18 levels of resistance. This can add a lot of intensity to your workout sessions.

Moreover, the console is also multifunctional and is equipped with 18 workout apps with a customizable training routine. It also features its own sound system compatible with most MP3 players. There is also a tablet holder furnished on the upper part of the console.

10. Efitment E006 Magnetic Elliptical Machine Trainer

The EFITMENT E006 is a bare-bonestrainer designed for users looking for the bare minimum in an elliptical.

Equipped with magnetic resistance that has typical 8 levels of tensions, this elliptical will provide you excellent but simple workout sessions. The resistance levels can be changed via the knob in the middle.

It features an LCD panel that displays all the necessary stats you need during the exercise, such as calories burned, distance traveled, current speed, and time, etc.

The rubber-coated handles provide great grip and are integrated with stainless steel pulse sensors to read your heart rate and show on the display panel. Besides, the console also has an integrated tablet holder.

Furthermore, the pedals are constructed with heavy-duty ABS material and don’t feature any adjustment systems or cushioning. They feature front guards to prevent your feet from sliding forward and ribbed surface for extra adherence.

The E006 Magnetic Elliptical has a 13″ stride length with a weight capacity of 220 lbs. which is the lowest of the bunch. This proves that the machine has been specifically built with keeping smaller users in mind.

11. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical

As far as entry-level elliptical machines go, the SF-E905 model from Sunny Health & Fitness is an option you will want to look at. Apart from being really smooth, quiet, and reliable, this trainer is actually one of the more convenient options around.

With such an affordable price, it is hard to find magnetic resistance in an elliptical trainer. But this elliptical changed the norm by including an 8 leveled magnetic resistance system.

The console and the machine control panel have no pre-programmed workouts or Bluetooth options. But it does include all the essentials stat options such as speed, distance, time, and calories burned, etc.

Thanks to the pulse sensor built into the fixed handlebars, you can also view your pulse rate on the console.

Unfortunately, the Sunny SF-E905 is going to be unsuitable for users over 6ft of height because of its 11″ stride length. So, tall users are not recommended to use it since it will not let them achieve a full stride.

12. Body Champ BRM3671 Cardio Dual Trainer

It is not very easy to find an elliptical around $300 bracket that offers multiple workout programs and a whopping 16 resistance levels. This Body Champ Cardio Dual Trainer will give you all these features and more.

The BRM3671 is a new breed of hybrid exercise equipment combining an elliptical trainer and an exercise bike. It has a quality build with 90 lbs., the weight which keeps the machine stable while exercising. Besides, this weight is also a telling sign that this machine is made from quality materials.

You can get a variety of exercises with this budget-friendly entry-level machine. Its 12 pre-programmed workouts and heart rate monitoring system will make your workout so much fruitful.

The heart rate monitoring is included in the stationary handlebars so that you can monitor your pulse rate and have a good intensity solid workout.

Its console features a screen for tracking your workout stats and buttons for scrolling through the feedback. The 16 magnetic resistance levels by the BRM3671 Cardio Dual Trainer will provide enough strength for an intense cardio session.

How Do You Use the Ellipticals Machine?

An elliptical trainer is a great choice for anyone looking for a good cardio workout. But for that, the proper use of this machine is essential for avoiding fatigue or injury.

Step 1

It is always a good thing to prepare your body for a workout with a proper warm-up. This avoids any possible muscle strain or cramp.

Step 2

Step into the machine facing the console. Hold onto the handle to avoid losing balance.

Step 3

Start pedaling slowly to start the console. Use the swing arms for a more full-body workout.

Step 4

Turn up the resistance to challenge yourself more.

What Exercises Can You Do Using Ellipticals Machine?

There are ways you could always spice up your everyday workout to make it more enjoyable and effective.

Core Workout

When you let go of the handles, your core gets all the attention of the exercise. The faster you pedal, the more you work your core.

Booty Workout

Upping the incline on your elliptical will target your glutes and hamstrings and tone your backside.

Total Body Workout

Push and pull the handles more to work your chest and back. At the same time pedal in both directions with intervals. This will work your whole body for maximum calorie burn.

Burn and Build

A workout with rounds of alternating resistance with 5% incline will build up muscle mass easily and burn lots of calories in a short time.

How to Make the Most of Your Elliptical Workout? 30 Minute Ellipticals Machine Workout Plans for Beginner

Elliptical exercise has the potential of reducing high blood pressure, various heart diseases, diabetes, and not to mention your weight. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or looking for a high-intensity interval workout, an elliptical will have the perfect workout solution for you.

By working out with an elliptical machine, you’ll get a low-impact workout and challenge different muscle groups of your body. With pedaling motion and movable handles, both your lower and upper body gets worked out at the same time.

However, in order to reap the full benefit of elliptical workout, you need at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise five days a week. And to help you make the most of that sweat session, we’ll discuss here a beginner level 30-minute elliptical trainer workout formation.

30 Minute Ellipticals Machine Workout Plan for Beginner

• Time: 30 min
• Calories burned: 300 kcal

*SPM = Strides per minute

During the warm-up stage of this high intensity 30-minutes workout plan, you can pedal alternatively forward and backward as you wish. This is to get your body ready to go both directions afterward.

Moderate effort means you’re working harder than the warm-up stage, but you should be able to carry out a conversation. And during the “no hands” component, you might swing your arms by your sides using your core to stay balanced.

Finally, during the high effort stage, you’re working to the point where you’re breathing heavily and can’t talk anymore.

Keep in mind that this chart doesn’t impose a hard and fast rule on you. So, you can easily modify it a little bit according to your own limit.

How to Choose the Best Ellipticals Under $1000?

Before gettinga great elliptical for yourself, make sure you are aware of some of the major features.

Design

No matter what machine you buy, great design and first look will greatly dictate how well it will perform. Spending up to a grand will give you better design, ergonomics, and durability.

Size

Those ellipticals under $1000 have full-sized units, almost like those of commercial-grade ellipticals. But you also need to consider the space you have for smaller homes and apartments. In this situation, compact ellipticals have the advantage as they take up much less room.

Stability

The best machines are those that seem to disappear due to their stability. You want to be able to concentrate on your workout without having to worry about the machine. Usually, heavier ellipticals provide you ample stability.

Resistance

It’s the way you get to work your muscles harder. The higher the resistance, the more intense is the workout.

There are usually two kinds of resistance; magnetic and mechanical that uses felt brake pads. Magnetic resistance is quieter and more durable, while mechanical ones tend to quickly wear down from friction.

Control Module

Most of the time, you’ll find rudimentary computers with a screen or two displaying your workout feedback. It will give data such as speed, distance, workout time, calories burned, step count, and machine information, etc.

You’ll also find a mix of both quick-select buttons and precision controls to move up the levels.

Pre-Programmed Workouts

One of the most important features of a smart elliptical is many pre-programmed workout routines. These programs are built into the machine to challenge your stamina in different ways.

All of these routines should be controlled with the computer and will give you options geared toward weight loss, intervals, cardio, etc.

Incline Adjustment

The angle of inclinechallenges your workout in another way by stimulating a gradient that boosts the intensity of your exercise. When you can adjust the degree of your incline, you can instantly give yourself a metabolic boost. Incline adjustment makes an elliptical more effective for muscle sculpting.

Stride Length

When you can have a natural feeling stride, you’ll get the most comfortable and effective elliptical training. The best rated ellipticals under 1000 have at least 18” strides, which are ideal for shorter trainees. But the industry standard is the 20” stride length, which allows you the most natural workout feeling.

Safety Considerations When Using It

Elliptical machines are very easy to use and mostly very safe. Still, you need to have some sort of safety preparations to avoid any unwanted situation.

Ensure Stabilized Machine

Ensure that the machine has been placed on a stable and plain surface. Never take the risk of putting the machine on a slope.

Pace Yourself

Never start working out with the hardest setting. Your body needs to warm up before a proper exercise. If you’re too excited or overconfident, chances are there you might hurt your muscles. Keep your movements slow for 5 to 10 minutes.

Hold the Handrails/Maintain Balance

Just as the machine needs to be on a stable surface, you need to balance yourself while working out too. Assess your alignment with the machine and make sure that your weight is pushing ahead. Don’t lean back or on the sides while using the trainer.

Stay Hydrated

If you’re feeling lighthearted during the workout, it means you’re dehydrated. It is very important to hydrate yourself enough, so you don’t end up falling over during exercise. Keep a water bottle near you always.

Don’t Allow Children Around

The elliptical machine has some moving parts, and while in the session, you’re continuously moving too. Children tend to get too curious about everything. So, for their safety, always workout at a safe distance from them.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it enough to workout 30 minutes on an elliptical machine?

If you can work out on the elliptical machine at least 30 minutes every day, you’ll be easily able to burn 180 calories. But depending on your weight and intensity of the workout, it can even reach to 400 calories per day.

2. Is it okay to do elliptical every day?

Elliptical training is basically a low impact full body aerobic exercise machine that doesn’t have any negative side effects on our body. So, you can work out on it every day without any worries.

3. Will elliptical tone my arms?

Yes, an elliptical will not only tone your arms but also your whole upper and lower body, provided you maintain your exercise perfectly every day along with a proper diet.

4. Is it okay to do elliptical after ACL surgery?

An elliptical machine mimics the natural motion of walking or running on a very low impact scale. This is good training for conditioning your body for better balance and mobility after ACL or hip surgery without risking injury or re-injury.

Besides, many medical practitioners also encourage using the elliptical for rehabilitation after such surgeries.

5. Are there any health restrictions for ellipticals?

Elliptical trainers are generally used for low-intensity workouts and the machine is very kind to your body if used properly following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Still, it is better to take precaution if your doctor has warned against any strenuous exercise.

6. Is regular cleaning or oiling necessary for my elliptical?

When you do a heavy workout, sweat builds up and drips down to the machine. It is, therefore, safer to wipe the machine down with an antibacterial wipe from time to time.

Besides, with lots of moving components forming the elliptical, lubricating it occasionally will prevent squeaky sounds, joint frictions, and possible breakage.

Final Words

Including the best elliptical under 1000 into your workout routine is the best choice you can make to improve your overall health. It is especially important for professional athletes too.

But, if you’re still not convinced enough, just talk to someone who’s used an elliptical on a regular basis. You’ll then know for sure how much it is important to keep an elliptical in your house to keep yourself fit and healthy.