The 6 Best Ellipticals Right Now, Tested and Reviewed by Fitness Experts

The Max Total 16 will give you a similarly intense workout as the Max Trainer M9. In fact, the experience using either Bowflex machine is very similar. The Max Total 16 and Max Trainer 9 offer the same warranty, are the same size, have the same weight capacity, and feature the same levels of resistance. So, what’s the difference? This machine features a larger, crisp 16-inch touchscreen to make streaming classes and following preset workouts even more user-friendly.

The Max Total 16 is the latest in this Bowflex series. It’s super compact for an elliptical-style trainer, so it’s perfect for city-dwellers with smaller living spaces. With up to 20 levels of resistance and pre-programmed workouts, we found this machine to really help push you while working out at home. The generous, 16-inch touchscreen console also comes with Max Total, a platform of custom-guided workouts and virtual coaching to provide structure and motivation for those who like that kind of thing.

At north of $2,000, it’s pricier than most ellipticals we’ve seen and tested. But, given its premium build, Bowflex branding, and long list of features (namely, a massive touchscreen) we think it’s worth it for those who prefer a spacious interface. We especially love the six-week buy-back guarantee that allows you to try before you commit to buying. Plus, it’s often on sale.

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This Merach elliptical is the best choice for budget-conscious individuals who want to enjoy elliptical workouts at home without breaking the bank. This elliptical machine is particularly suitable for beginners and first-timers looking to begin building a home gym repertoire. With its durable build, user-friendly features, and budget-friendly price tag, it’s an excellent option for those who want a reliable and effective elliptical without the hefty price.

Despite it being a budget model, this machine offers a comfortable workout experience. Its oversized pedals and 19-inch stride length improve its accessibility, especially for larger individuals.

Staying connected is a priority, and the Merach doesn’t disappoint in this regard. It seamlessly connects to your smartphone or tablet, offering access to a library of engaging workouts. We love that the machine’s resistance can be automatically adjusted during certain preset programs, which simplifies the user experience. This feature also adds an interactive element to your workouts, making it feel like you have a personal trainer guiding you towards your goals.

During my time using the Merach, I was impressed by its sturdy and stable feel, particularly for a budget model. No wobbling or instability here, even when we picked up the speed and intensity.

The main highlight of the Merach is undoubtedly its price. At under $1,000 delivered, it offers exceptional value for the budget-conscious consumer. It’s not the absolute cheapest option on the market, but its combination of durability, features, and affordability strikes the perfect balance between quality and cost-effectiveness.

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The Bowflex Max Trainer M9 is tailor-made for individuals who are ready to challenge themselves on an elliptical. Whether you’re working out on an elliptical to supplement your cardio or to improve cardiovascular health, the M9 delivers the toughest workout we’ve discovered in the world of elliptical machines.

This elliptical leaves others in the dust when it comes to a challenging workout. Its unique combo of elliptical and stepper movements creates a workout experience that got us sweating. With 20 resistance levels at your disposal, you can gradually increase the challenge, ensuring that every session remains demanding and effective.

Let’s talk specifics. The variety of positioned handlebars offers versatility in your workout routine, allowing you to maintain proper form throughout your sessions. Its 10-inch HD touchscreen is crisp yet modestly sized, allowing you to stream workout videos, music playlists, and even video services like Netflix and Hulu. This feature adds a layer of entertainment and motivation to your workouts, ideally making your time spent on the machine more enjoyable in the long run.

We love it for home use because it operates almost silently. This is a significant advantage, especially if you live in a shared space or prefer to workout without creating noisy distractions.

Yes, it comes with a premium price tag, but it justifies every cent with its build quality and performance. Its construction delivers on durability and longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for those committed to their home fitness journey. The combination of tech features, reliability, and the ability to provide one of the toughest elliptical workouts in the industry makes it one of the best ellipticals we’ve ever tried.

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The Sole E25 Elliptical is all about a stable ride and high-end features without breaking the bank. That’s where this machine shines.

It was co-developed with physical therapists to eliminate all strain on knee, hip, and ankle joints for an even-lower-impact workout. With 20 levels of resistance, it’s completely customizable, so you’re guaranteed to get a great workout regardless of your fitness level. The 20-pound flywheel, 10 preset workouts, and oversized foot pedals keep every workout feeling smooth and comfortable. Plus, it also has a cooling fan, water bottle holder, and Bluetooth speakers built into the console.

At just north of $1,000 (including free shipping), this is not just one of the most durable elliptical trainers we’ve tested, it’s also among the most affordable machines for users of all levels. We especially love the generous, and rare, lifetime frame warranty—something even most premium elliptical trainer brands don’t offer.

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