I recently got into shape, and I want to maintain my shape even if I don’t hit the gym every day. So, I decided to buy some equipment for my home gym. It’s a small space where I have a little bit of workout equipment, mats, and whatnot. To add to the existing machines, I wanted to get something for a good cardio and lower body workout.
So, after a little research, I came across information on ellipticals. To research further on my budget. I decided to find the best elliptical machine under 1500. I wanted things to be the best quality, so eventually, I searched for something a little more expensive. Something I knew was going to last me a while.
The best elliptical trainer under 1500
After thorough research, I came across the products listed below that caught my eye. They were just under my budget, and they looked like they were worth the investment. Let’s dive into 10 of my top picks of the best elliptical machines, or if you prefer--a "Buying Guide".
Best Elliptical Trainers under 1500 Dollars
Nautilus E618 Elliptical Trainer
Ideal for:
Top of the line quality under $1500
Specifications
- 29 preset programs
- It has a weight limit of 350 pounds.
- Suspension system on pedals
- Optimized front drive train
Features
Say “Nautilus” to me and I’m sold! I really like this elliptical and not just because of the brand name. The Nautilus E618 lets you use the “Travel the Globe” app while working out with outstanding scenic routes via Bluetooth connectivity.
Other great apps to access are “My fitnessPal,” Nautilus Trainer 2 and RunSocial! Amazing how fast your training session moves along with these apps. If you want to just listen to music, there is a USB port you can plug in your phone or iPad.
You can just use the 29 preset programs geared to weight loss, interval training or use the programs that target your pulse rate. This comes along with 25 levels of resistance you can adjust with a button on the console. It seems as if Nautilus thought of everything. If you want a Nautilus elliptical trainer that is somewhat cheaper, take a look at the Nautilus e616.
The foot pedals have a suspension adjust performance system that can be enhanced by also raising the heel portion of the foot pedal to your desired angle. This helps you to work muscles at different angles for uniform results.
The optimized drive train has dual side rails for easy start-up which continues into an unbelievable smooth ride. You're getting a quality low impact workout.
Weight capacity on the Nautilus E618 is 350 pounds, which is pretty average for these types of machines! To figure out if you have enough headroom, just add 21 inches to the tallest users’ height, and that is the minimum space needed. I think you’re going to like this one as much as the E616!
Pros
- Plenty of warranties
- 29 programs, 25 levels of resistance
- Apps available by Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- A little expensive but worth the price.
- It May look ordinary and boring, but it has been the most consistent elliptical yet.
**** This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
NordicTrack store elliptical trainer
Ideal for:
trainer supervised workouts at home.
Specifications
- It can be folded and stores vertically.
- It has an built-in fan for workout cooling.
- 325 weigh capacity
- It comes with a 10-year frame and a two-year parts warranty.
Features
Nordictrack has been a huge part of the athletic community, and it has served its purpose yet once again. This elliptical is made up of great quality steel. This is super compact in size and can be folded up vertically to be stored in a small space as well.
The machine comes with 22 digital resistance levels. If you're considering this product, it also comes with a free month trial of their digital training system. It can be connected to the device through your tablet or smartphone with the blue tooth connectivity. Put this on your best elliptical list!
The bluetooth connectivity gives the ability to access interactive studio classes and Global workouts. The program will have interactive control of your machine and will be able to change the intensity levels as the program recognizes changes in resistance needed.
Fitted in the middle of the machine is a 5” backlit LCD display that shows all of your stats throughout your workout. It has oversized, cushioned foot pedals for comfort and safety. The machine is also pretty quiet and can be used in any environment.
The incline can be adjusted as well as the stride length which helps the user have control of how intense their workout can be to get them into their best fitness level. I like the fact that this elliptical trainer has a cooling fan and a bottle holder since I really need both of these features.
Pros
- Easy handling and home workout training.
- Wide display
- Multiple strides and resistance levels
Cons
- Has an overall expensive outlook
- Pre-assembled may have issues with quality.
**** This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine
Ideal for:
Self-controlling workout programs.
Specifications
- 29 workout programs.
- Twenty-five resistance levels with challenging workouts
- Console speakers and LCD installed.
- It also offers a blue tooth connection.
Features
For those who want their home environment to be like a personal gym, they should take a look at the Schwinn 470 Elliptical. The machine is equipped with some cool features which make your workouts more fun.
It has a built-in speaker, which can be plugged in and be used to play music while you work out. The screen displays the stats that you need to maintain a steady workout and know your heart rate throughout the whole session.
Moving on to the stride, this has a 20” stride which automatically makes your workouts more of a running exercise. This long stride accompanied by a good incline makes your workouts a lot more challenging than they may be with other ellipticals. These also have a blue tooth connection which helps you link with multiple workout apps and makes things easier for you.
The machine already has 29 workout programs, each ranging from different kinds of needs and wants, the apps can help you track what you need to work on or may help you know how many calories you’ve used. Foot motion technology makes sure your feet are perfectly aligned and helps with a continuous workout. Elliptical trainers with front drive are easy to operate and balance on. This one is definitely in your price range.
Pros
- An easy-going usage.
- Easy to assemble.
- It comes with multiple connectivity, which help in a smoother workout.
Cons
- There have been complaints of a clicking noise after a few workouts. Though fixable, it is still annoying.
- The warranty has a few falls through.
**** This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
NICEDAY elliptical magnetic machine
Ideal for:
for home gyms and smaller storage spaces.
Specifications
- Has an amazing weight limit of 400lbs
- Has up to 16 resistances to chose from
- It does not require electricity to work.
- It has a 15.5” stride length.
Features
If you are a plus-size person and you want to start working out at home, to feel safe, you should get some equipment like this. This is a gym-quality elliptical that allows a range of users to work out—from a height of 4’9 to 6’2, weighing up to 400 pounds. This elliptical can handle it.
There are also bottom stabilizers which are wide and made up of steel which allow a stable base to work out at any time and anywhere. The handlebars are covered with pulse detectors and allow you to easily set your workout statistics on an LCD screen. The backlit display is wide enough to be seen clearly and shows all of your calories used, distance, heartbeat, and speed.
This will get you to your desired goals in no time. By the way, if you need more resistance levels, more than 16, I would consider moving up to the under $2,000 elliptical category otherwise this will do you just fine.
The machine is also foldable and can easily be stored and moved around by wheels that are installed in the front. Talking about convenience, this comes almost 90% assembled, and the user will only need a few tools to get the whole thing together. All materials needed come with this deal. This one makes the best elliptical trainers list.
Pros
- Easy to move around and store.
- Easy installation.
- 16 levels of resistance.
Cons
- It does not work with electricity, so it may need a little more manual energy.
- It may not be available in certain regions.
**** This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
Fitness reality elliptical machine
Ideal for:
For personalized cardio training.
Specifications
- It has a weight limit of 300 pounds.
- 20” stride length
- 24 levels of resistance
- Can cater to users from 5’1 to 6’4
Features
The Fitness Reality is a smaller elliptical that can cater to a wide range of people. This product is a good one considering it is a smaller company that has tried to provide its users with a good deal while adding in features that a high-quality elliptical may have.
There are connections and tablet holders right in the front, which helps you keep your workouts interesting. There aren’t a lot of features that make it extra fancy, but it does operate as a pretty decent elliptical.
The flywheel on this machine is 44 pounds which is a lot more than a normal elliptical. This allows the users to work out with a quiet machine and has a wide range of resistances that can be adjusted as per the requirement of the user.
The frame is made out of steel and is sturdy enough to hold up for a good weight limit of 300lbs. This can also easily cater to taller people and helps with a full-body workout every time. You can also track your progress on the LCD, which is displayed in front of the machine. The pulse detectors also help in tracking your heartbeat and other vitals, which are essential for keeping a steady workout.
Pros
- Easy to use.
- Has a smooth workout flow
- Caters to shorter and taller people
Cons
- Customer service is a little slow.
- Does not have sensor pads on the moving handles but rather on the stagnant ones.
**** This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
Sole Fitness E25 Elliptical Machine
Ideal for:
Numerous users with a long stride
Specifications
- 20–22-inch stride length
- LCD display for tracking personal stats
- 10 total workout programs
- Warranties on all parts
- Water bottle holder, sound system and more
Features
The Sole Fitness E25 is a quality product that has a 25-pound flywheel that produces an extremely smooth stride while in operation. The user weight is up to 350 pounds with a flexible 20–22-inch stride length. The footprint on this machine is impressive at 27 x 58 x 71 inches and weighs right at 189 pounds that provides plenty of stability.
The Sole E25 comes with two custom programs, two heart rate programs, and 6 standard programs for your convenience. The possibilities for a successful workout are endless with this elliptical.
The fact that you can control the incline is a strong point and it is controlled by buttons on the handlebars for quick access and can be controlled on the console. This makes your cardio workout even more versatile. Also located on the handlebars are heart rate sensors, so you can use the provided chest strap to monitor your pulse rate.
The improved large LCD console has a highly visible 6.5” viewing screen where you can track time, distance, heartrate etc. You can also program your workout by choosing 7 levels of resistance and degree of incline with buttons on the console.pr
With a product at this price, there are plenty of warranties against defects. Some of them are lifetime on the frame, 3 years on parts/electronics and if you need pay for labor, there is a one-year warranty on that. If you are looking for a cheaper elliptical, check out our info on Best Elliptical under 1000 dollars.
Pros
- Decent footprint
- Both incline and resistance features
- Great warranties
Cons
- Customer service is a little slow.
- Does not have sensor pads on the moving handles but rather on the stagnant ones.
**** This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
ProForm Hybrid Trainer
Ideal for:
Use standing or sitting
Specifications
- Elliptical and Low impact bike
- Integrated sound system
- Live streaming apps
- Fitness tracking with iFit
- User weight of 350 pounds
Can’t decide if you want to sit down or standup and workout? With the Proform Hybrid Trainer you can do both! If you are recovering from an injury and need some TLC for a while, use the recumbent feature on this machine. When you’re healed, stand up and use the regular posture other elliptical require. Both positions are low impact on the body.
You will start your training with a free 30-day trial with iFit that gives you access to Global workouts and Studio classes, along with many on demand workouts. While in the program mode your machine will auto-adjust the resistance to match the workout you’re are doing. Nice, Huh?
So, are you ready to go? Adjust the seat, adjust the pedals, and get comfortable. You will still get a great workout even if you are comfortable. As your follow your regimen, you can keep track of your heart rate due to sensors located within the handlebars.
The console is small, but it still can track your calories used, distance, there is a place to rest your tablet or iPad so you can interact with the iFit membership you receive free for 30 days. The elliptical has 16 levels of magnetic resistance and is equipped with an inertia enhanced flywheel that gives you an outstandingly smooth ride during your workout sessions.
The products’ frame is covered by a 5-year warranty while the parts and labor are covered for 90 days. With the purchase of this machine, you are really getting a workout that others get by using two different machines. This is a great deal!
Pros
- 2 in 1 machine
- Works for therapy
- Rear driven flywheel
Cons
- Customer service is a little slow.
- Does not have sensor pads on the moving handles but rather on the stagnant ones.
**** This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
Teeter Power 10 Rower/Elliptical
Ideal for:
Full body workout
Specifications
- Performs rowing and elliptical workouts
- Bi-directional movement
- Digital Performance Tracker
- 7 levels of resistance
- Access to personal training app
The Teeter Power 10 is a uniquely fascinating product! Two of my favorite training methods are rowing and elliptical motion and you can do both with this guy!! You will be doing your workouts from a recumbent position that is known to be easier on the bodies’ joints.
For people that are limited in physical movement or need therapy as they heal from traumatic injury, the recumbent position provides them with a way to success. The push-pull motion used to operate the Teeter Power 10 gives you a multi-directional way of burning excess calories and defining separate muscle groups.
The Teeter follows an elliptical path that allows the motion of the body to go both forward and backward as you do a push-pull motion with your arms. This motion will engage numerous muscle groups for a full body workout. Don’t worry about trying to keep your feet immobile as there is a strap to secure them to the oversized pedals.
The seat is adjustable to fit your height and it is stationary and doesn’t slide on a bar but moves in a curved elliptical motion. It gives a smooth fluid motion with no jerking movements.
The performance monitor will track distance, strokes per minute, your time in motion, and calories used. The heart rate monitor keeps track of that stat by way of a Bluetooth chest strap that is wirelessly connected to an app. The silent magnetic resistance has 7 levels to complete your workout choices. This makes the best ellipticals list!
Pros
- Great for people recovering from injury
- Elliptical motion with rowing action
- Free classes and coaching
Cons
- Customer service is a little slow.
- Does not have sensor pads on the moving handles but rather on the stagnant ones.
**** This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
Bowflex M3 Max Trainer Black
Ideal for:
Increasing endurance
Specifications
- Benefits in as little as 14 minutes
- 8 levels of resistance
- Weight limit of 300 pounds
- Burns calories like a stepper
- Low impact on the body
The Bowflex Max trainer gives you a strong workout with the motion of an elliptical and stepper combined. This action will burn calories faster and affect your body sooner than an ordinary elliptical. It comes with eight different resistance levels along with two separate workout programs. This is sure to keep you motivated to reach your fitness goals in less time.
The weight capacity of the Bowflex Max trainer is 300 pounds which can accommodate all customers. With this product you don’t need to be concerned about the stride length since the pedals work like a stepper and elliptical at the same time. This high-intensity interval training gives the results you’re looking for and you will have fun doing it.
Your workouts get harder as you get stronger, and your heart rate will go up to provide you with increased cardio health. This machine will challenge you each time you get on it and the results are going to improve your overall health and endurance.
Bowflex is a household word when it comes to health and fitness equipment. They have been in business since 1986 and have been turning out quality products since that time. It is the gold standard of the most dependable name in home fitness. The max trainer is in my price range for a low impact elliptical trainer.
Pros
- Small footprint
- 30-year-old company
- Has a calorie burn rate monitor
Cons
- Customer service is a little slow.
- Does not have sensor pads on the moving handles but rather on the stagnant ones.
**** This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
Goelliptical V-950X Motorized Elliptical Trainer
Ideal for:
Strength conditioning
Specifications
- Silent belt drive
- 19-inch stride length
- 24 levels of resistance
- Biomechanical position handlebars
- Large lcd display console
The Goelliptical V-950X is a unique piece of equipment that stands 69 inches height, 63” long and only 28” wide. It boasts to be a cross trainer as well as an elliptical and has a 19-inch stride length.
The silent belt drive makes it a joy to work out on. The large pedals can be changed to 8 different positions for everyone’s convenience.
If you are limited on space, the footprint is small, but it also has front transportation wheels to make it easy to move into a storage area.
When checking out the console, it is loaded with features that will enhance your workout sessions. If you like to listen to music, it provides you with audio and H/L speaker. There’s a water bottle holder for your favorite drink, and an USB port to charge your phone or iPad.
The console tracks your distance, speed, pulse, time, and calories used and is easy to view on the Led display screen Other features available to you are an optional wireless chest belt for recording accurate stats on the wireless pulse receiver system. EKG signals are more accurate using a chest belt device than sensors in the handlebars.
There are 24 resistance settings controlled by a toggle switch on the console. With the 24 preset workouts, there are unlimited programs to help you reach your desired fitness level.
Don’t forget to check out the handlebars on this product! They are ergonomically designed to operate in the best biomechanical position as possible. This optimizes work on the upper body.
Pros
- Quality stats console
- 19” stride length
- Perfect for home gym
Cons
- Customer service is a little slow.
- Does not have sensor pads on the moving handles but rather on the stagnant ones.
**** This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
Best Fitness Store Elliptical Machine
Ideal for:
home workouts
Specifications
- Has 16 levels of resistance
- It has a weight capacity of 275 pounds.
- Transportation wheels
- Effective yet compact
Features
This looks like a pretty ordinary elliptical machine, but it has all the standard features you may expect an elliptical to have, What you may not expect is the 15-year warranty. This also has multiple other warranties on it, but the 15-year mark intrigued me.
It has to be very well constructed product for the company to stand by it with such a great warranty. They know that the machine won’t mess up every other month or need repairs. This product will last a good amount of time with proper use.
This is also one of the most expensive on the list and has been a tough choice to add. The machine also has a great way of transporting it, which is also pretty easy. There are transportation wheels installed in the front which help the user carry and transport the machine where ever they may want. The machine itself is also petty compact.
The handlebars are fitted with sensory pads which help you know what your pulse rate is and what is required by you to reach your workout programs goals. This also shows multiple other stats such as time, distance, speed, RPM, calories used, temperature, a calendar, and a clock.
Due to the low center of gravity, the unit is well balanced which eliminates any rocking motion. This allows you to have complete balance as you progress in your workout session. The footprint on this elliptical trainer is so small there is no need to have transport wheels, it's a "keeper"!
Pros
- Compact
- Easy to use
- It has a very long warranty
Cons
- A little expensive but worth the price.
- It May look ordinary and boring, but it has been the most consistent elliptical yet.
**** This button takes you to the lowest priced listing I found on Amazon.
5 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Elliptical Workout
Surely, you'll want a fantastic workout after investing a good sum of money in a new elliptical. So, if you’re looking for ways to burn more calories and train better, we have five tips for you.
1. Maintain Proper Form
The number one rule when doing any workout is to ensure that you maintain proper form. So when you get onto the elliptical, make sure your feet lay flat against the pedals and your hands hold the handle firmly.
Avoid standing on your toes as it could put unnecessary stress on your leg, leading to chronic pain in the long run. For that same reason, your knees and elbows must be slightly bent so that there’s no unbearable pressure on the joints.
2. Adjust the Incline to Target Your Glutes
Ellipticals are not just a great machine for cardio and aerobic exercise, they’re equally good for training your leg muscles. So if you want to amp up your glutes training, try increasing the inclination.
Generally, these ellipticals have inclination settings ranging from 1 to 20. You can manually increase the level after every set until you have reached your limit. The higher you go, the more your glutes are engaged.
3. Go Backwards to Train Your Hamstrings
This isn't your usual way of using an elliptical but is perfect for those who want to train their hamstrings.
Usually, when you get on an elliptical, you start peddling clockwise. However, in this case, all you have to do is slowly bring down your pace and switch the direction to anticlockwise. You'll instantly feel the pressure on your hamstrings. It might not be a common practice but is still a great way to strengthen your hamstrings.
4. Let Go the Handles (Sometimes)
Once you’re familiar with how the equipment works, you can try to let go of the handles sometimes to focus better on your lower body. This will put more effort on your hamstrings and glutes as you try to balance your position and move.
However, make sure you do this exercise in moderation and only as much as your body can take. Since you’re putting a lot of pressure on your legs, overdoing it can hurt your knees in the long run, not to mention that it could also leave you sore for a good 4-5 days.
5. Mix it Up
If you want a fulfilling workout session, working out on the elliptical alone won’t cut it. You should also engage your other muscles by diversifying your workout.
For example, even though elliptical machines engage your abs, you can work it out even more by getting off the machine and doing a few crunches after every set. You can also mix your elliptical workout with an upper body workout by squeezing in 20 pushups between every set.
On many machines, the pause button activates a one-minute countdown. You can use this to your benefit and count the number of pushups you can do in 30 or 45 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
I would suggest the Teeter Power 10. The recumbent position is going to produce a lot less stress on your entire body. You will still get a great workout without aggravating your injuries as you continue to heal. Check with your Doctor first and see what he/she advises.
Conclusion
This was my list of the best elliptical under 1500. They’re all under the price tag of 1500, and they do work out to be some of the best in the business. They will last you a good amount of time, and minor inconveniences can be fixed with the company warranty which is given with the machine.
