Best Ellipticals Under $500 of 2024 – Our Buying Guide

No more excuses! Do you want to improve your fitness or are you looking for joint-friendly sports equipment for your own four walls? Then a low-impact elliptical trainer is a good option for you.

Whether you are a beginner or a sports enthusiast, the best ellipticals under $500 offer the right program for every fitness level, thanks to a large selection of resistance levels. You can also read directly how successful your training session was and find out the calorie consumption, pulse and distance.

However, choosing the best elliptical under $500 for home use is not easy, no matter what type of indoor bike you’re searching for. It can be overwhelming because so many poor-quality models on the market can make your purchase decision junk.

Don’t worry!

Our team has researched and analyzed numerous ellipticals available on the market to bring you a curated list of options that provide solid performance, durability, and features without exceeding the $500 price point. We also add a Buying Guide and FAQ sections that provide a complete overview of things you may need to know before and after you buy your new elliptical trainer.

So whether you’re a fitness enthusiast looking to add variety to your home workouts or just starting your fitness journey, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Best Elliptical Trainers Under $500 Reviews

Let’s see our comparative analysis of the best ellipticals under $500 in 2024…

1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3919 Premium Elliptical – Best Overall
2. SNODE E20 Heavy-Duty Elliptical – Editor’s Choice
3. Body Champ BRT7989 3-in-1 Elliptical – Multi-functional
4. Body Power BST800 2-in-1 Elliptical Trainer – Built-in Curve-Crank Technology
5. ANCHEER APP Control Elliptical – Heavy Duty Construction
6. BestLucky UPGRADED Ergonomic Elliptical – Hyper-Quiet
7. FUNMILY EM530 Elliptical – High Intensity

1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3919 Premium Elliptical

Why Choose Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3919:

• Multifunctional performance monitor
• Adjustable magnetic tension
• Full motion handlebars
• Versatile step stride
• Transportation wheel

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3919 elliptical is well-suited for effective endurance training. It not only facilitates extensive endurance training to enhance basic endurance but is also designed for intensive interval training. You can adjust the resistance to 8 different levels to match your training goal.

The on-board computer has a total of 5 display modes. You can receive direct feedback on your performance via the built-in training monitor. Among other things, it shows the calories consumed and the distance covered at the same time. The display combines a time display and a heart rate monitor. The room temperature reading is a great bonus.

With the SF-E3919, you can adjust padded handles four times in height. The legs and arms are used simultaneously when exercising with this device. For the pedal system, the manufacturer relies on a medium-duty flywheel, weighing 14 lbs.

The SF-E3919 elliptical works a lot of the muscles of the body and helps burn calories to lose weight. The stride length of the trainer is around 10 inches. This model is made of durable materials and has a maximum weight capacity of 260 lbs. A mechanical braking system is installed.

However, this unit is not collapsible. But it has transportation wheels so you can move it from one room to another for storage. This beautiful Black-red elliptical trainer comes with installation and operating instructions. And the assembly process is quite simple.

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2. SNODE E20 Heavy Cross Crank Driven Elliptical

Why Choose SNODE E20:

• Variable tension control system
• Built-in effective heavy flywheel
• Stable and comfortable handlebars
• Comfortable big non-slip pedals
• Large digital LCD multi-functional display

The E20 is a new design magnetic elliptical trainer from SNODE, available in two different versions. This model has 8 levels of magnetic resistance while E20i has 16. However, both models provide a variety of exercise intensities to make your fitness training more effective and energetic. SNODE offers one-year quality warranty for this model, which ensures that this indoor fitness device is much more durable.

It is built with a precision balanced flywheel which ensures smooth and quiet operation. The monitoring display provides real-time data. For example, the display shows distance, calories burned, time, speed, scan and pulse. You don’t need to plug into the power, just stand in the equipment and then start your workout.

It has large Non-slip Pedals which assure your safety while exercising. The stride length is 13.78 in. With 265 lbs of weight capacity, the heavy-duty construction increases durability and stability. So it could be an excellent fitness equipment for your whole family workout.

The transportation wheels allow you to move it from one place to another with ease or store it away out of sight. SNODE cross trainer measures 61 x 24 x 47 inches. It doesn’t take up too much space. And I personally like that when you glide, the rear end never surpasses the back crossbar so that you can pretty much put the back right up against a wall.

The resistance is strong and smooth – ideal for challenging activities. It allows you to slim down the whole body including losing stomach, arms, legs, thighs, and buttocks, and provides Smooth Flowing workouts for your upper and lower body without impact.

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3. Body Champ BRT7989 3-in-1 Elliptical Trainer

Why Choose Body Champ BRT7989:

• 21 Training Programs with Media Shelf
• Hassle-free Transitions without unmounting
• Three Sets of Integrated Handlebars
• Heart rate monitor with adjustable resistance and motor
• Transport wheels for easy relocation and storage

Body Champ BRT7989 is a 3-in-1 elliptical; upright stationary, recumbent exercise, and sprint road bike cycling. It has some of the best features rarely found in exercise machines under 500. The BRT7989 has 2 additional upper-body stance options for a better and easier workout. However, there is no way to make the pedals go up and down as a stepper.

The innovative design allows effortless transitions without the need to dismount or adjust. You can set the handlebars in 3 different ways and you have the option to choose among pro cycle, dual-action, and wraparound.

The large display gives you all the information about the training and tells you how many calories you burn. It will take less than two hours to assemble. However, the instructions are easy to follow.

The smooth magnetic-encased flywheel provides ultra-quiet motion so you can work out early in the morning or late at night when all family members are sleeping. You can easily adjust the magnetic resistance to customize your workout to your needs.

The seat is adjustable and can be moved forward or backward. This means that the Body Champ elliptical trainer can be used as a training bike on your own four walls.

The bike portion is fine, and the seat and pedals are easy to adjust. However, for the elliptical portion, motion is limited and a bit narrow. But the overall motion is pretty much smooth. The transport wheel also makes this model easy to transport and store when not in use.

• You might also be interested in some of the Best Ellipticals Under $300.

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4. Body Power BST800 2-in-1 Elliptical Stepper

Why Choose Body Power BST800:

• Built-in Exclusive Curve-Crank Technology
• Combines 2 exercise machine movements
• 8-level of quiet resistance control
• Compact design fits almost any space
• Simple and straightforward LCD computer

Body Power BST800 2 in 1 elliptical gives you a smooth workout experience in your home. And with smooth operation and efficient motion, you will get the most out of your cardio equipment under $400. It is combined with the easy strides of an elliptical and the power generated from an upright stepper.

The ergonomic crank allows you to adjust eight resistance levels safely. It was designed for a weight capacity of 250 lbs, which is pretty low compared to other models on this list. However, the Body Power BST800 model can be fairly easily moved, tight spaces get tricky because of the height.

This space-saving model combines the benefits of a vertical climber, an elliptical trainer, and an exercise stepper. The synchronized handlebars and stepper movement provide a total-body workout in a short period of time. You can comfortably paddle forward and backward.

With a compact design, it is the perfect home workout device for anyone who wants to exercise in their home, apartment, or fitness room. Like most modern ellipticals in 2024, the front side wheels help you move the machine forward easily. The tablet/device holder is also wonderful.

However, it is not exactly ‘hardwood floor friendly’ – as you try to move and tilt the machine on its wheels, it makes permanent indentations on the hardwood floor. Also, the stride length is a bit short for long-leg people.

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5. ANCHEER Smooth Driven Elliptical for Home Use

Why Choose ANCHEER Elliptical:

• Ergonomic & adjustable resistance
• Dual power motion & quiet driven
• Upgraded APP connection system
• Multi-function digital monitor
• Large cushioned footplates

If you are looking for a 5th-generation elliptical under $500, the ANCHEER smooth-driven elliptical can be the first option. ANCHEER elliptical trainer features an APP control system that can be connected choose one of your like scenes to be more fun when working. The large digit features of an LCD screen show all the information such as calories burned, time, speed, and distance.

Pulse pads on the additional stationary handlebars have heart rate monitoring option and allow you to control your heartbeat, recording your fitness statistics more easily. ANCHEER elliptical is quiet and smooth especially, since the precision balanced flywheel and V-belt drive provide a smooth operation.

The stride is 15-inch Large which is enough for long legs athletes. With a compact ergonomic design, it has 10 levels of magnetic resistance adjustments. The built-in friction-free linkage system and the tubular steel construction ensure long-lasting durability. And the wide base ensures robust stability.

The dual power motion will work your upper and lower body simultaneously, which helps you to isolate your legs or arms for added intensity. The anti-slip foot pedals are wrapped with texture plastic which increases friction and ensures your safety during exercise.

However, one potential downside is that the monitor is positioned too low, which may cause discomfort for taller individuals or those who prefer to watch their iPad or phone while working out. The assembly process can be a bit tricky, so don’t expect to complete it in less than an hour. However, despite this challenge, the ANCHEER elliptical offers good value for money and is a worthwhile investment.

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6. Bestlucky UPGRADED Elliptical for Home Use

Why Choose Bestlucky UPGRADED Elliptical:

• Built-in effective inertia-enhanced flywheel
• Easy-to-read large window LCD computer displays
• Extended Leg Stabilizers and transport wheel
• Design for high safety and convenience

Bestlucky is well known for its high-quality sports equipment at a reasonable cost. Bestlucky’s Upgraded elliptical model is robust and durable, making it ideal for home use. And if you are looking for a cheap but efficient elliptical, this model is right for you! With its 24 integrated programs, you can train according to your goals without risk.

Bestlucky High-Intensity Cardio Elliptical Trainer is built with dual action forward and backward pedaling system, which provides a full-body workout. The 13-inch stride length is also suitable for different heights people.

It is small & lightweight and doesn’t take up much space in your room. The strong frame can support a maximum of 330 lbs. You can easily assemble it, around 1 hour for assembly and installation before you can fully enjoy your new elliptical! You can also personalize your workout by entering your weight, gender, height, etc. for a suitable activity that suits you.

Bestlucky elliptical has 8 levels of the magnetic tension control system, which is average. However, it is enough for a simple to challenging workout at your own pace. You can use a convenient tension knob to adjust exercise intensity easily. You can increase or decrease the resistance with a simple turn, so your workout will be always challenging and effective.

The Inertia-enhanced flywheel provides a more natural ride. The slip-resistant pedals ensure stability and the stabilizers maintain balance during exercise. It’s robust, quiet, smooth, and comfortable to use. This model also has transportation wheels, which make it portable.

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7. FUNMILY EM530 Elliptical & Cross Trainer for Home

Why Choose FUNMILY EM530:

• Built-in tablet/phone holder
• Free Mobile APP function for training
• Solid steel frame and chip-resistant paint
• Fixed center handle post
• Built-in pulse sensors
• Transportation wheels and floor stabilizers

FUNMILY is always famous for its innovative design, by R&D. With the cheapest price point, The EM530 elliptical bike is ideal for casual or regular use. This unit is very quiet and not bulky. It will quickly find a storage place because of its compact design.

The FUNMILY EM530 features an 18 lbs belt-driven magnetic flywheel and high gear ratio that delivers a natural feeling of both forward and reverse motion. It features 10 levels of magnetic resistance, offering versatility in your workouts. This range of resistance levels allows you to target various muscle groups and provides a challenging yet smooth workout experience.

The advanced LCD display provides real-time workout information. You can place your tablet or a book in front of the display to keep yourself busy or to conduct online training. The built-in heart rate sensor is connected to the monitor to read your pulse, burnt calories, time, speed, ODO, and distance. The multifunctional display is also App-compatible, so you can share your fitness data with your friends.

FUNMILY EM530 elliptical is made of a sturdy steel frame with a capacity weight of up to 390 lbs. Like the Bestlucky elliptical trainer, this model has anti-slip foot pedals, wrapped by textured plastic. This will increase friction and ensure safety during the exercise.

The ergonomically engineered 15-inch stride fits most users’ heights. The convenient transport wheels are appreciable for use or storage; you don’t need heavy muscle for lifting. The 4 rubber adjustable floor rests are also suitable for both carpets and hard floors. Overall, this cheapest and easy-to-use elliptical is an excellent choice for beginner fitness enthusiasts.

• Feel free to check out our unbiased reviews of the Best Spin Bikes under $500.

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What You Should Know Before Buying the Best Ellipticals Under 500 Dollars

Let’s take a closer look at the features offered by each elliptical on the list and discuss what they entail:

The flywheel

Flywheel and the braking system are decisive for effective training on the elliptical trainer. It determines the maximum resistance and ensures smooth movement, which is especially important for ambitious endurance sports.

Flywheels generally range from around 13 to 30 pounds (6 to 14 kg) in weight. Heavier flywheels provide smoother and more consistent resistance throughout your workout. A heavier flywheel also provides a more challenging workout.

Stride length

When buying an elliptical trainer for less than 500, pay attention to the setting options for the elliptical with adjustable stride length. The longer the stride, the softer the movements, and the better the training effect. This feature is important, especially for tall people with long legs.

Maximum weight capacity

Many people want to lose weight by using an elliptical, so heavyweights should pay attention to the maximum body weight for the device. Some models offer a maximum of 220 lbs. For many users, this is truly not enough. Large people need a model that can withstand them over the long term. Adjustable ellipticals also adapt to weight, size, and training intensity.

Board computer

Hardly any fitness station today can do without a computer. An onboard computer on the elliptical provides all the information you need and enables sophisticated training programs. And with the selection of different training programs, you can tailor your training perfectly to adjust your goal.

While the mechanical function guarantees the actual training effect, the training computer provides useful information and allows you to set certain training programs to optimize your training.

However, these training programs have a motivational effect that you should not underestimate. Endurance training can be very monotonous and then has a demotivating effect. An onboard computer, which shows your progress on a color display and makes the resistance varied, helps enormously in maintaining the training. The same applies to an elliptical with a calorie consumption display.

Braking system

A magnetic brake or an induction brake guarantees smooth and even movements and absorbs the momentum so that the resistance is well maintained. However, an elliptical trainer needs a good braking system so that your applied force does not affect you during the downward movement. As a rule, magnetic brake systems are more powerful and gentler than brake belts and have established themselves in almost all models.

Exercise programs

Elliptical trainers are endurance sports equipment, but individual training programs make monotonous training easier and motivate through intermediate goals and interval training.

Heart rate monitor

Keeping an eye on the heart rate is particularly important for senior athletes, people in rehab measures, and during pregnancy, and it usually works with a chest strap or hand sensor. You may notice that elliptical trainers on our list come with a chest strap or a hand sensor for heart rate measurement.

Available space

If you have little space at home, you should also think about the size of your chosen model. Elliptical trainers with transport castors can simply push into any corner when the training is finished. Besides this, some models can be folded up, making them even easier to stow away. Find a compact elliptical at Intersport.

Accessories

If you enjoy watching films or videos during your running training, Bluetooth connectivity could be an ideal option. You can connect your smartphone or tablet to the elliptical trainer via Bluetooth and listen to music or watch films. Training apps for iOS and Android may also play a role in the purchase decision.

A tablet or mobile phone holder on the training device itself can be an advantage. Some of the elliptical trainers on our list are equipped with water bottle holders.

FAQs

Which muscle groups are being trained with elliptical?

Elliptical trainers primarily target the lower body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, through the pushing and pulling motion of the pedals. Additionally, the elliptical engages the core muscles to stabilize the body during movement. Arm handles on some machines engage the upper body, particularly the chest, back, biceps, and triceps, when used actively.

What is the difference between cross trainer and elliptical?

In practical terms, “cross trainer” and “elliptical” are often used interchangeably to refer to the same type of fitness equipment. Both describe machines that simulate activities like running, walking, or stair climbing without causing excessive pressure on the joints.

However, in some contexts, “cross trainer” might refer specifically to a type of elliptical trainer that incorporates movable arm handles, allowing users to engage both their upper and lower bodies simultaneously. Meanwhile, “elliptical” may refer more broadly to the category of exercise equipment itself.

Why do I invest in an elliptical instead of other gym equipment?

Compared to other endurance sports equipment, elliptical trainers are much more effective, and above all safer to use. The guided movements prevent the user from moving incorrectly or making fundamental mistakes in the operation, as is possible with free training on the ergometer or the treadmill.

This is why ellipticals are so popular in rehab sports and with seniors. Even seasoned fitness athletes swear by the efficiency of the ellipticals precisely because training on such a machine is so effective.

How much flywheel mass should the elliptical have?

When looking for the best elliptical, many manufacturers advertise a high flywheel mass, but how high does it actually have to be? The flywheel mass should be tailored to your body weight. For beginners, up to 10 lbs flywheel mass is suitable, whereas professionals need an elliptical with up to 25 lbs flywheel mass.

What is the best stride length on the elliptical for me?

The best stride length on an elliptical for you depends on your height. Generally, taller individuals may prefer a longer stride length (around 20-22 inches) to accommodate their longer limbs and provide a more natural range of motion. Shorter individuals may find a shorter stride length (around 16-18 inches) more comfortable and manageable.

Can I expect a smooth and quiet operation on ellipticals under $500?

While the quality of operation can vary, many ellipticals in this price range offer quiet and smooth performance. However, lower-priced models aren’t as silent and stable as higher-end options.

Conclusion

In this elliptical comparison analysis, we have evaluated numerous tests to make your purchase decision easier. We also looked closely at their pricing and specs to find that the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3919 is the best (overall) elliptical under $500.

While ellipticals from brands such as Marcy, MaxKare, and EFITMENT are reputable manufacturers in the home trainer and affordable fitness equipment category, they did not make it into our top rankings for the best model at this price range.