Best Ellipticals Under $1000: Get in Shape, Save Money 

Think you need money to get fit? While some fitness equipment does cost a small fortune, there’s no need to shell out that much to get a great workout, shed some extra lbs, and improve your overall fitness. 

Which is why we’ve compiled this handy list of the best ellipticals under $1000. If you’ve been wondering how to reach your workout goals without spending a bunch of cash, then check these out. We’ve made sure to only choose elliptical trainers that we believe are of great quality and give you super value for money. 

In a Hurry ? Here are our top-picks

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Why Trust BoxLife? 

Here at the BoxLife HQ, the team is loaded with fitness experience. We’ve spent years training on our own, being trained by qualified personal trainers, and even training others to reach their fitness goals. 

Between us, we’ve been on just about every cross – trainer that exists. We know what makes a good, solid, worthwhile machine, and how to know when something isn’t worth investing in. 

Each member of our team is actively involved in CrossFit and we’re always ready to share information or guidance based on our own experience. Using our personal experience, we put together informative, value-packed articles so that everyone out there can make the best choices for their own fitness goals. 

Who Should Choose an Elliptical Under $1000? 

The beauty of these ellipticals is that anyone can choose an elliptical machine under $1000. The fitness machines on this list provide an excellent low-impact workout even for those with mobility issues and joint issues. 

These machines are a particularly excellent option for active people looking for a full-body workout to improve your cardiovascular health on a strict budget. 

They’re also great if you’re new to exercise (or new to the elliptical trainer) and aren’t sure if it’s quite the right piece of equipment for you. Choosing one of these means you won’t be shelling out a lot of cash upfront, but they’re still good enough quality for you to reach your workout goals with an amazing low-impact workout. 

How We Chose the Best Elliptical Under $1000 

We’ve got elliptical knowledge. But we didn’t just stop at what we already know. Once we tested the ellipticals we could get our feet on, we went even further and did detailed deep-dives into each one. 

The BoxLife team scoured every corner of the internet to find every piece of information we (and you) need to know about these machines. We read hundreds of reviews, dived into Q&A sites like Quora and Reddit, spoke to fitness equipment salespeople, and even asked people we know. 

Once we had all the info, we narrowed it down and chose these 7 ellipticals. Then, we tested them even more specifically so we could bring the most well-rounded information on each one. 

How We Tested Them 

Each elliptical went through detailed testing on these 7 points. For affordable ellipticals under $1000, these features are going to be the most important ones to look for, because they’re what makes a decent elliptical stand out from the cheap machines that aren’t worth it. 

• Resistance Levels 
• Incline Levels 
• Built-In Programs 
• Extras 
• Stride Length 
• User Weight Capacity 
• Warranty 

Best Ellipticals Under $1000 – Our Top Picks 

Without further ado, let’s dive in our top picks:

Best Overall – SOLE Fitness E25

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It’s tough to find a better quality elliptical machine for the price. We firmly believe this is the best elliptical under $1000, thanks to its feature-packed design. 

Why We Like It 

Don’t assume that all ellipticals under $1000 are the plainest of plain machines. The Sole Fitness E25 elliptical is loaded with more features than some more expensive ellipticals have, and we highly recommend it as your first choice. 

While it has only 6 inbuilt programs, there’s a ton of scope for you to have robust, hardcore exercises using the manual settings. 20 resistance levels, 20 incline levels, and a 20lbs flywheel, will provide a challenge no matter your fitness level. 

The 20-inch stride length should suit most people of average height and taller. If you’re a little shorter, you might find that it’s a tiny bit of a stretch, but it could still be comfy for you. It can easily handle users of up to 350 lbs, so larger people would do well with this particular machine too. 

It’s also got a bunch of extras, which are much appreciated for the price bracket. Enjoy listening to your music through the Bluetooth-enabled speaker, charge your device through the USB port while it stands safely on the device holder, and keep track of your metrics with the heart rate monitor (included with purchase). 

Last but not least, this is one of the best warranties you’ll ever find on an elliptical under $1000. A lifetime on the frame, 3 years on the parts and electronics, and a year on labor. You can’t go wrong with that! 

Pros	Cons
✅ 20 resistance levels, 20 incline levels, and 20lbs flywheel for a superb workout	❌ Only 6 inbuilt programs
✅ 20-inch stride length is suitable for most users to stride comfortably	❌
✅ Numerous extras make the experience more fun and comfy	❌
✅ Excellent warranty for its price range	❌

Key Specs 

Resistance Levels	20 levels of magnetic resistance
Incline Levels	20 incline levels
Built-In Programs	6 pre-set workouts
Additional Features	Bluetooth compatibility, Bluetooth Speaker, Tablet/Phone Holder, USB Port Charging, Cooling Fans, Water Bottle Holder, includes a heart rate monitor
Stride Length	20 inches
User Weight Capacity	350 lbs
Warranty Duration	Lifetime frame, 3-year electronics, 3-year parts, 1-year labor

Everything You Need at a Price You’ll Love 

The Sole E25 elliptical offers everything (and more) that you’ll need to meet all your workout goals. The price is one of the best for this quality magnetic elliptical that you’ll ever find, and the warranty is unparalleled in this price bracket! 

Best Compact Design – Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine

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The Schwinn 411 is a lightweight machine with a compact design, but it’s ideal for those who live in small spaces. It’s value-packed for its compact size, plus it has an awesome app and a fairly heavy flywheel. 

Why We Like It 

This elliptical has a super compact footprint, so it won’t take up a lot of space wherever you choose to put it. It also weighs just 100 lbs, so it’s easy enough to move out of the way if you need to. 

While there are no incline features on this little machine, it does feature 16 adjustable resistance levels and a 20lbs flywheel so you can really push yourself. You can choose from 13 pre-set workouts, so there’s plenty of versatility here. 

The 18-inch stride length is a very happy medium and will please most users. Despite being compact, it can comfortably handle up to 300 lbs of weight, so almost anyone can workout safely. 

What we really like about this machine is the extras. It’s compatible with the Explore the World fitness app, which really makes your workouts fun and engaging. You can also link it up to a Bluetooth heart rate monitor, for more accurate metrics. 

It’s also got an impressive warranty, 10 years on the frame, 2 years on parts, and 90 days on labor. Ideal for an elliptical this size and price! 

Pros	Cons
✅ Compatible with Explore the World app, which makes working out engaging and fun	❌ No incline features
✅ Compatible with Bluetooth heart rate monitors to track your effort	❌
✅ 16 levels of resistance give you plenty of room for progress	❌
✅ Good warranty for the price of the elliptical	❌

Key Specs 

Resistance Levels	16 levels of variable resistance
Incline Levels	No incline
Built-In Programs	13 built-in workout programs
Additional Features	Chest strap heart rate monitor compatible, integrated tablet holder, water bottle holder, Bluetooth compatibility with Explore the World app
Stride Length	18 inches
User Weight Capacity	300 lbs
Warranty Duration	‎10 years frame, 2 years parts, 90 days labor

Small But Effective 

The Schwinn 411 is compact enough for almost any space, but it doesn’t skimp on features. Almost everyone will be able to get a very decent workout on this small but mighty lightweight machine! 

Best Simple Elliptical – ANCHEER E040 Elliptical Machine

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There’s nothing fancy about the ANCHEER E040 Elliptical, but it’s an ideal starting point for those who might feel a little intimidated by all the bells and whistles of other cardio equipment. 

Why We Like It 

If you’re just starting out, the ANCHEER elliptical is perfect. It’s simple, affordable, and enough to give you a really good idea of whether or not elliptical training is the type of cardio you like or not. 

Although there’s no incline, you’ll have 16 resistance levels to play around with, more than enough to get a very decent workout. With a 15-inch stride length, people of average-to-short height or with naturally shorter strides should be quite comfortable. 

Impressively, this machine can handle up to 390 lbs of weight! It’s also extremely quiet thanks to magnetic resistance technology. These are both exceptional features for such an affordable elliptical. 

Just a glance at the machine can tell you that it’s built to be heavy-duty. Thankfully built-in transport wheels make it easy to move. You’ll be getting a solid piece of exercise equipment for the price, so we highly recommend this one as a first elliptical. 

Pros	Cons
✅ Simple, no-fuss elliptical machine	❌ Shorter warranty period
✅ Can hold a maximum weight of 390 lbs	❌ Stride length might be too short for some
✅ Quiet operation with just 20dB of noise, making it perfect for using in an apartment with other people	❌
✅ Robust design makes it quite heavy-duty for a simple machine but transport wheels make it easy to move	❌

Key Specs 

Resistance Levels	16 levels of magnetic resistance
Incline Levels	None
Built-In Programs	None
Additional Features	Device holder, pulse grips
Stride Length	15 inches
User Weight Capacity	390 lbs
Warranty Duration	Shorter warranty period of only 1 year, lifetime service

Simple But Effective 

Between the robust, heavy-duty frame, quiet operation, the spectacular weight capacity, and the friendly price, this cheaper machine is an excellent choice for those who are new to the machine and want to find out if it’s really for them. 

Best With Manual Incline – Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine 

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If inclines aren’t your thing but you like having the option just in case you feel like doing a hill workout, the Schwinn 430 Elliptical is a great choice. It’s got a manual adjustment incline, which works well but is nothing fancy. 

Why We Like It 

This magnetic elliptical is ideal for those who like having the incline option but aren’t likely to use it often or want to use it in the middle of a workout. With 6 manual incline options on this machine, it’s perfect for adding a bit of challenge to your exercise. 

Even if you choose not to use incline, you can get an excellent workout thanks to 22 built-in workout programs, which include a couple of fitness tests, a nice addition that gives you some insight into your own fitness level. 

You can also adjust the resistance yourself, thanks to 20 magnetic resistance levels. Users of average to tall height will appreciate the 20-inch stride length, which means they can have comfortable workouts. They’re also cushioned, for extra comfort and shock-absorption. 

Despite being a cheaper machine, this elliptical has some great extras. A USB charging port allows you to keep your devices charged while you’re working out, and an audio jack means you can use headphones if you want to avoid disturbing others with your workout music. 

With a weight capacity of 300 lbs and a 10-year frame warranty, this is a really good option for those on a budget. 

Pros	Cons
✅ Manual incline levels are perfect for those who want a bit more challenge	❌ Manual incline might not be suitable for some users
✅ 22 preset workout programs, including 2 fitness tests to give you some insight	❌
✅ Oversized, cushioned pedals with a 20-inch stride length for extra comfort	❌
✅ USB charging port and an audio jack so you can listen to music through earphones	❌

Key Specs 

Resistance Levels	20 levels of magnetic resistance
Incline Levels	6 levels of manually adjustable incline
Built-In Programs	22 preset workout programs, 2 built-in fitness tests
Additional Features	Tablet holder, cooling fan, USB charging port, water bottle holder, audio jack
Stride Length	20 inches
User Weight Capacity	300 lbs
Warranty Duration	‎10 years frame, 2 years mechanical parts, 1 year electronics, 90 days labor

Great Extras, Manual Incline 

For an elliptical under $1000, this one comes with some really nice extras, like a USB charging port, an audio jack, a fan, and a tablet holder. There’s plenty of room for light to vigorous exercise, and a manual incline option if you feel like you might want to do some intense workouts at any point. 

Best Without Incline – Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Elliptical Exercise Machine 

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If you already know you aren’t likely to use the incline in your fitness routine, then the Sunny Health and Fitness Smart Elliptical is a fantastic choice. It may be more comfy for shorter users, but it’s all down to personal preference. 

Why We Like It 

With 16 resistance levels and 24 pre-set workouts, there’s plenty of scope for getting in a great exercise on this machine! And with the ability to handle users of up to 330 lbs, it’s a super option for those who are new to the elliptical. 

The real exciting thing about this particular elliptical is the accompanying Sunny Health and Fitness app. Download the SunnyFit app and you’ll have over 1000 workouts to play with, including customized workout programs, real-time tracking, and personalized exercise advice from personal trainers. 

It features a shorter stride length of 15.5 inches, which means it might be a little more comfortable for shorter users. However, this really is a personal thing, so taller people shouldn’t discount it as a joint-friendly workout choice.  

There’s a handy tablet holder so you can watch your favorite show while exercising. It also has Bluetooth compatibility and heart rate controls to track your workout goals. 

We love that Sunny Health and Fitness offers a lifetime warranty on the frame. You’ll also be covered for 5 years on parts and electronics, making this a very risk-free buy. 

Pros	Cons
✅ SunnyFit app allows you to access more than 1000 workouts	❌ Tall users might struggle to get their full stride on this elliptical
✅ 16 levels of resistance provides more than enough room for improvement	❌
✅ Excellent warranty for its quality	❌
✅ Can handle users of up to 330 pounds	❌

Key Specs 

Resistance Levels	16 adjustable resistance levels
Incline Levels	None
Built-In Programs	24 pre-set workouts, 1000s more with Sunnyfit app
Additional Features	Fan, tablet holder, Bluetooth compatibility, USB port, wireless and touch sensors for heart rate
Stride Length	15.5 inches
User Weight Capacity	330 lbs
Warranty Duration	Lifetime frame, 5 years electronics, 5 years parts, 2 years labor

Great for Flat Workouts 

If you don’t need an incline, the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Elliptical is an excellent piece of fitness equipment. It’s a smart elliptical, which means you’ll have access to 1000s of intense workouts through the accompanying app, so it’s very worthwhile for the price. 

Best Value for Money – SOLE Fitness E20

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There’s no denying SOLE Fitness makes superb cardio machines. They’ve truly got something for everyone, and we’ve chosen their E20 as our top choice for the best value for money thanks to its key features and amazing price. 

Why We Like It 

For an entry-level machine in SOLE’s wide range, the E20 is a seriously good one, and you’ll get your money’s worth with every exercise. 

For its price range, the first thing that stands out is its warranty. A lifetime warranty on the frame is a huge bonus, and you’ll get 3 years on electronics and a year on parts and labor. That’s excellent for a cheaper machine. 

You’ll get just as good a workout and calorie burn on this front-drive elliptical as you will on any other. With 20 adjustable resistance levels and 8 built-in workouts, you’ll be able to do almost anything you want to in your exercise routine. 

It only has 3 incline levels which need manual adjustment, so you need to do a dedicated incline workout. You won’t be able to change it halfway unless you hop off the machine. 

The 18-inch stride length and 300-lb maximum user weight capacity are above what usually comes at this price range. Plus, you can enjoy Bluetooth speakers, a USB charging port, and even hook up your chest strap heart rate monitor for more accurate metrics. 

Pros	Cons
✅ Excellent array of features in comparison to others in its price range	❌ Fewer built-in workouts than others
✅ Amazing warranty for its price range	❌ Manual incline may not suit everyone
✅ 20 adjustable resistance levels and 8 preset programs for a well-rounded workout	❌
✅ Great built-in extras to make the full-body workout experience more enjoyable	❌

Key Specs 

Resistance Levels	20 adjustable resistance levels
Incline Levels	3 manual incline levels
Built-In Programs	8 preset workout programs
Additional Features	Bluetooth audio speakers, USB charging port, chest strap heart rate monitor compatible, integrated tablet holder, water bottle holder
Stride Length	18 inches
User Weight Capacity	300 lbs
Warranty Duration	Lifetime frame, 3-year electronics, 1-year parts, 1-year labor

Excellent Features, Amazing Price 

You won’t find a better-quality elliptical for the price than this one. You’ll be getting a robust machine that can handle almost any kind of person, a fantastic warranty, some great extras that aren’t always found on more affordable ellipticals, and a one-of-a-kind warranty in this price range. 

Best Weight Capacity – SOLE Fitness E35 

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Heavier users will appreciate the fact that this front-drive elliptical can handle up to 375 lbs of weight quite comfortably. It’s a fantastic choice for almost everyone, and it has an extremely affordable price considering its premium features. 

Why We Like It 

Whether you need an elliptical that can handle more weight or you want every member of the family to be able to exercise on it with all weights being covered, the SOLE Fitness E35 is an excellent piece of exercise equipment for you. 

Aside from the impressive weight capacity, taller users should also find it fairly comfortable, thanks to a 20-inch stride length. And with 20 adjustable resistance levels to play with and 20 incline levels to switch between, there’s a lot of room here for some really solid exercise. 

There are only 6 pre-set workouts, which is fewer than most others. But with the vast range of custom options you can play with and a heavy flywheel here, you probably won’t need anything more. 

Bluetooth capabilities, a USB port, a device holder, and a superb warranty (lifetime frame, 5 years on parts and electronics) really finish this machine off nicely. Well worth a buy, for both low-key exercise and high-intensity interval training. 

Take note that this elliptical’s price does fluctuate between just below $1000 and just above—however, it’s absolutely worth paying in the little bit extra if you can, or waiting for it to drop! 

Pros	Cons
✅ Weight capacity of 375 lbs makes it suitable for many different users	❌ Fewer built-in workouts than others
✅ 20-inch stride length means it’s also good for taller users	❌
✅ 20 adjustable resistance levels and 20 incline levels give you plenty of workout choice	❌
✅ Lifetime frame warranty and 5 years on parts and electronics	❌

Key Specs 

Resistance Levels	20 adjustable resistance levels
Incline Levels	20 levels of Power Incline
Built-In Programs	6 pre-programmed workouts
Additional Features	Fan, tablet holder, Bluetooth compatibility, USB port, wireless and touch sensors for heart rate
Stride Length	20 inches
User Weight Capacity	375 lbs
Warranty Duration	Lifetime frame, 5-year electronics, 5-year parts, 2-year labor

Can Handle Anything 

With a robust weight capacity, a lifetime frame warranty, and premium features, this elliptical can handle almost anything you throw at it. For an affordable elliptical, it’s an excellent choice for heavier users. 

Buyer’s Guide: What To Look For In the Best Ellipticals Under $1000 

Shopping for an elliptical under $1000? Here’s what we suggest looking for to make sure you’re getting a good quality machine and not a dud. 

Resistance Levels 

You need enough resistance levels to be able to accommodate you as your performance improves, so choose something with at least 10 levels of resistance. Heavier flywheel weights will add to the resistance. 

Incline Levels 

Incline is another function that’s well worth having to add more challenge to your workout. We recommend looking for a machine with at least 6 incline levels, and automatic is better than manual. 

Built-In Programs 

Just because you’re paying less than $1000 for this elliptical, it shouldn’t be sparse on the built-in programs. Look for at least 5 or 6 at a minimum, so you have the option to get on, pick one, and start at the press of a button. 

But if you enjoy using onboard programs rather than doing things the manual way, shop around a little. You can find affordable ellipticals with 30+ programs, specific fat burn workouts, with iFit compatibility, or able to work with other apps for hundreds of workout choices. 

Additional Features 

You can still find plenty of ellipticals under $1000 with excellent built-in extras like sensors for heart rate monitoring, to make your workout more pleasant and convenient. Consider your needs beforehand; is a tablet holder, USB port, or built-in speakers necessary for you? 

Stride Length 

Stride length can be tricky. Taller users will be able to exercise with a better range of motion on an elliptical with a longer stride length, say 20 inches or more. But shorter users will find 20 or more inches to be a stretch, leading to a limited range of motion and poor form on both lower and upper body. 

You’ll have to match the elliptical’s stride length to your own needs. If you’re expecting more than one person to use the machine, then an adjustable stride length might be a good idea, but it’s much less common to find on budget machines. 

User Weight Capacity 

A substantial user weight capacity means the elliptical has a strong build. If it can handle decent weights, it’s also less likely to be wobbly or flimsy during the elliptical motion, offering smooth operation. 

Warranty 

A good warranty is a sign that the company believes in the quality of their own product. On the other hand, a poor warranty implies that something might break soon… And you won’t be covered. If you’re unsure whether or not a particular elliptical machine is worth buying, check out the warranty. 

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