Let’s face it; the best elliptical under $500 is still not a premier choice in the world of elliptical machines. Nevertheless, it provides fun-packed exercises that allow you to burn calories much faster. And you get to achieve all these without the hefty price tag. Well, to me, that’s a plus.
Of course, you’re here for the best elliptical machines under 500. Here’s the thing; selecting the best elliptical in this price bracket tends to be the trickiest. At this price bracket, most brands tend to overlook crucial factors, such as durability. So, ending up with inferior quality is a common occurrence.
With quality, performance, and user safety as the top priorities, I give you the best elliptical under 500 for home use.
Best Elliptical Under 500
1. ANCHEER Elliptical Machine
ANCHEER Elliptical is easily one of the best elliptical machines under 500. And as far as I can see, it deserves a top spot.
At its price point, it isn’t easy to get an elliptical machine with an app connection. Well, ANCHEER gives you such benefits. It has an upgraded app connection that lets you map and track your workout. Also, Explore the World App lets you choose your favorite scene for more fun.
ANCHEER has ten levels of magnetic resistance. It boasts a precision-balanced flywheel and maintenance-free V-belt drive system. At 35 pounds, the flywheel is among the heaviest at this price range. It’s quiet and gives a more challenging workout experience.
Notably, this elliptical offers dual power motion. Hence, it targets the upper and lower body simultaneously. The 15-inch stride is a bit low but acceptable at this price point. Still, I’ll recommend it for short and average-sized persons.
The digital monitor has seven modes, including scan and heart rate. It doesn’t support a chest strap. Instead, heart rate monitoring is achieved via pulse pads on the handlebars.
ANCHEER elliptical machine is among the sturdiest and most durable. It has a long-life friction-free linkage system. And with a robust steel frame, it holds the most weight at 390 pounds. The machine comes complete with transportation wheels and an integrated tablet holder. Also, it rewards you with a 1-year warranty.
Verdict
ANCHEER elliptical trainer scores well in most categories and deserves remarkable positive feedback. It has the heaviest flywheel on the list. Hence, I’ll recommend it for the more hardcore users that want to get stronger legs. Likewise, it has the most weight limit, making it ideal for large guys.
See More: The 10 Best Elliptical Under $1000 – Check Our Top Picks!
2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 Elliptical Trainer
Sunny never disappoints with its affordable yet effective elliptical trainers. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3912 is the newest addition in its lineup.
It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of elliptical machines. But for a budget elliptical trainer, it packs most of the features, some of which are pretty impressive.
Sunny SF-E3912 uses a motorized, magnetic tension system. It’s smooth, quiet, and provides 16 levels of adjustable resistance. Notably, this elliptical uses a lightweight 13.2-pound flywheel.
At 15.5 inches, the stride length is on the lower side. Nonetheless, it’s acceptable at this price range. Again, I’ll recommend it to people of short to medium height.
Notably, the performance monitor tracks more workout data than in other models. Aside from standard workout metrics, it monitors heart rate and watts. Also, it has 24 pre-programmed workouts, which is a huge plus for a machine under 500.
Sunny SF-E3912 comes with transportation wheels, a bottle holder, and a device holder for more convenience.
Thanks to floor stabilizers, this elliptical stays stable, even on uneven surfaces. And with a heavy-duty frame, it holds 330 pounds.
Verdict
Sunny SF-E3912 gives you more resistance levels. But I think its strong point is in the 24 preset programs. Notably, no other machine in this price bracket can afford so many programs. If you want to take the guesswork out of your workout sessions, this is the machine I recommend.
Don’t Miss To Read: Best Treadmill Under $1500: Reviews And Complete Buying Guide
3. Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine
Schwinn is as good in the bike segment as it’s in the world of elliptical machines. It has four notable models, and the Schwinn 411 sits at the lowest price bracket.
Though the cheapest among Schwinn elliptical machines, it packs a ton of impressive features. And as the name suggests, it adopts a compact space-saving design.
Like ANCHEER elliptical trainer, it gives access to Explore the World App. Hence, it immerses you in the world of virtual courses and stunning trails. And upon subscription, you get to unlock even more.
Schwinn 411 has 16 levels of eddy current resistance. Well, the weight of the flywheel isn’t specified. But with a perimeter-weighted design, it offers stability and smooth pedaling motion.
The stride length is pretty much the strong point of this elliptical trainer. Generally, most elliptical machines average 13-16 inches at this price bracket. But Schwinn 411 goes the extra mile to provide an 18-inch stride length. As such, it can fit taller persons.
Schwinn 411 uses a high-contrast monitor. Aside from basic functions, it tracks heart rate. Also, it rewards you with 13 preset programs. Unlike its siblings in the Schwinn lineup, 411 doesn’t have an integrated sound system. However, it has a built-in media rack, a water bottle holder, and transport wheels.
Though compact, this elliptical machine is heavy-duty. It can hold 300 pounds and has leveling feet for stability.
Notably, Schwinn provides a generous warranty. For instance, you get a warranty of 10 years for the frame.
Verdict
It’s rare to get an elliptical under 500 with a stride length large enough for tall people. So, with its 18-inch stride length, Schwinn 411 is easily the best for tall users. Also, it has the best warranty of 10 years.
Don’t Miss To Read: The Best Exercise Bikes Under $500 – Top 9 Models Reviewed!
4. Cubii Pro Seated Under Desk Elliptical Machine
It doesn’t have handlebars. Hence it only targets the leg muscles. But as far as a super-compact size goes, Cubii Pro reigns supreme.
Cubii Pro is the elliptical trainer you want for under-desk exercises. It lets you achieve your fitness goals while in the comfort of your seat. And with an extremely portable design, it’s as suitable for home use as it’s for the office.
Despite the compact size, this elliptical machine packs a ton of interesting features.
Notably, it allows you to sync to fitness apps and track your progress via your smartphone or smartwatch. Aside from Bluetooth tracking, it provides eight levels of resistance. It’s so effective that it can burn 125 calories in one hour.
Cubii Pro offers a near-silent workout session. Hence, it’s doesn’t disturb those around you, both at home and in the office environments.
Verdict
It’s not easy to get an elliptical machine that allows you to stay fit as you work. Apparently, the Cubii Pro Under-Desk machine gives you such convenience. It’s a machine that I recommend best for office use.
5. ProForm Hybrid Trainer
Are you split between buying a recumbent bike and an elliptical trainer? Lucky for you, there’s a machine that combines both functions for under 500.
ProForm Hybrid Trainer is both an elliptical machine and a recumbent bike. Hence, it gives you the chance to mix up your training.
This elliptical machine has 16 levels of quiet magnetic resistance. Also, it includes a 12.6-pound high-inertia flywheel. That makes it ideal for light-duty low-impact exercises.
Notably, the ProForm Hybrid trainer offers access to the iFit fitness app. Hence, you get more interactive training sessions.
The stride length is 15 inches. So, it aims at short and average-sized users.
The adjustable seat is a good touch. It’s adjustable, cushioned, and ventilated for superior user comfort.
Well, the LCD monitor is pretty standard. It keeps track of typical workout metrics, including cadence, distance, and calories burned. But thanks to the grip sensors, it can also track heart rate.
Notable additions in this elliptical machine include a sound system, transportation wheels, and a water bottle holder.
ProForm Hybrid trainer rewards you with a robust frame. It can hold 350 pounds and includes a 5-year warranty.
Verdict
ProForm Hybrid Trainer is the only machine that combines the functions of an elliptical and a recumbent bike. If you’re a couple who are split between a recumbent bike and an elliptical, or you want a versatile machine for mix up training, ProForm is the best choice.
6. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine
It’s not among the newest entrants as far as the Sunny elliptical machines go. Nevertheless, this budget elliptical has established itself as the best seller among its siblings.
Sunny SF-E905 is a compact, space-saving machine. It has an 11-inch stride length for tight workspaces and weighs a manageable 60 pounds. Hence, even without transportation wheels, it’s much easier to move around.
Eight levels of magnetic resistance aren’t the best. But for the price, it’s pretty impressive. Also, you get a micro-controller for precise adjustments.
This elliptical machine has full motion arms. So, it not only targets the leg muscles but also engages the upper body.
The monitor, though basic, provides heart rate readouts.
Sunny SF-E905 has non-slip feet to keep the compact size stable. And at 220 pounds, it has excellent weight capacity for its size.
Verdict
Sunny SF-E905 doesn’t have any of the bells and whistles of elliptical trainers. So, if you want a budget machine with all the basic features, you’ll find it handy. Also, I recommend it for short individuals.
7. Doufit EM-01 Portable Elliptical Machine
Maybe you’ve not heard of the Doufit brand. Well, it’s one manufacturer that provides some of the best fitness equipment. Among them is the EM-01 portable elliptical machine.
As the name implies, EM-01 is among the most portable elliptical trainers. It weighs in at a mere 58 pounds and has a compact space-saving design.
Like Sunny SF-E905, it gives you eight levels of adjustable magnetic resistance. Also, it boasts a lightweight, silent flywheel.
Thanks to dual-action arms, this elliptical machine engages both the upper and lower body.
The LCD monitor isn’t large enough to display all workout metrics at once. Nonetheless, it compensates with a scan function. Also, the monitor provides heart rate readouts.
EM-01 has a stride length of 12 inches. Well, it’s acceptable for such a compact size and budget. Also, it makes the machine ideal for users between 5 feet and 5 feet 9 inches.
It’s not easy to find a machine that includes extra features at the price of the EM-01. So, to me, the integrated water bottle holder is a plus.
The integrated steel frame provides heavy-duty support. Hence, you get stable and safe performance. Notably, it holds 250 pounds.
Verdict
At 58 pounds, EM-01 is among the lightest elliptical machines. I recommend it for single moms who want a lightweight machine that’s easy to move and assemble.
8. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3607 Magnetic Elliptical
Sunny SF-E3607 is a perfect choice if you’re hunting for an affordable unit. It’s a basic elliptical that’s as easy to use as it’s to maintain.
The machine offers eight resistance levels adjustable by twisting the knob. Well, the flywheel is not on the heavy side. However, it’s perimeter-weighted for smooth and steady pedaling motion.
Notably, the machine has a solid crank system. And with a rugged one-piece steel frame, it’s robust enough for users up to 220 pounds.
At 13 inches, the stride length doesn’t provide as much range of motion. However, it’s sufficient for the average-sized person. Also, it promotes a straight posture.
The non-lit LCD covers all basic functions. It has heart rate readouts and a scan function to cycle through all workout metrics.
The machine comes with an integrated tablet holder. And as with all Sunny elliptical machines, it comes with a 1-year warranty.
Verdict
For such an affordable unit, Sunny SF-E3607 doesn’t have the bells and whistles of elliptical trainers. Nonetheless, it provides a solid crank system. It’s the best choice if you want a basic elliptical that’s easy to maintain.
9. SNODE E20 Elliptical Machine
SNODE claims this to be a new design elliptical. So, the E20 elliptical must have something interesting for you.
Apparently, it adopts a cross-crank system. Compared to 1-piece and 3-piece crank systems, it’s the most durable and stable.
E20 elliptical has eight levels of magnetic resistance. It allows you to adjust to low tension for warming up or high tension for muscle stabilization. Alongside that, it has a precision-balanced flywheel for smooth and quiet pedaling.
The digital monitor encompasses all basic functions. Also, it offers heart rate readings.
At 0.72 square meters, this elliptical doesn’t take much floor space. So, it pretty much fits in small apartments and studios.
As mentioned, this elliptical has a heavy-duty crank system. Hence, it provides a solid structure that supports up to 265 pounds.
Notably, the E20 elliptical comes with a 1-year warranty. Also, it has transportation wheels for easy mobility.
Verdict
E20 elliptical trainer doesn’t promise a lot. But if you’re looking for heavy-duty performance on a budget, this elliptical is hard to beat. The cross-crank system makes it one of the most durable.
10. Elifine Magnetic Elliptical Training Machine
It’s not as popular as the other models on the list. Still, it’s an honorable mention and one of the best budget elliptical machines.
This elliptical has eight levels of adjustable resistance, which is average at this price bracket. At 13.2 pounds, the built-in flywheel is on the lighter side. Nonetheless, it has a high gear ratio to provide a challenging yet smooth workout.
The stride length is 14 inches. So, it’s pretty much for short to average-sized persons.
Well, this elliptical uses a multi-functional LCD monitor. It tracks workout progress, including heart rate. Also, it has a scan function to compensate for the small screen size.
Small transport wheels allow for easy mobility. As for the weight limit, this elliptical machine holds 265 pounds.
Verdict
Elifine elliptical machine covers the basics. But the 14-inch stride length, though not the best on the list, is a plus for the price.
Best Elliptical Under $500: Complete Guide
Available Workout Space
Aim for an elliptical that fits the designated space with room to spare for utilities. To see if it will fit, consider the typical dimensions, which is the length and width. Generally, you want to have an allowance of at least 20 inches on each side of the exercise machine.
Elliptical Design
Of course, not all elliptical machines are made the same. There are two different designs: front-drive and rear-drive elliptical machines.
Front-drive elliptical machines are the most basic design. They are far more compact, making them ideal for tight spaces. However, they have a shorter stride length than their rear-drive counterparts.
Rear-drive elliptical machines give the longest stride possible. However, they require more space, making them less suitable for small apartments.
Stride Length
The best elliptical trainers offer a stride length of at least 18 inches. But you mostly get that in high-end models. At under 500, most average 10-16 inches, which only fits short to average-sized persons. At 18 inches, Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine is the best under the $500 price bracket.
Though a bit rare at this price bracket, you can get an adjustable stride length if the machine is for multiple people.
Adjustable Resistance Levels
Well, we all start somewhere. So, aim for an elliptical machine that lets you progress up the tension level gradually. Aside from precise adjustments, aim for as many levels of resistance for the price.
Generally, budget models under 500 have an average of eight levels of resistance. But others go the extra mile to provide up to 16 levels of resistance.
Flywheel Weight
Lightweight flywheels characterize elliptical machines under $500. So, they are mostly for light-duty exercises. But some machines, such as ANCHEER Elliptical, offer a 35-pound flywheel for under 500. Unlike lighter models, it can accommodate intermediate and advanced users.
Portability
Aim for a portable machine that you can move from one location to another. It’s a good thing that most elliptical machines come with transport wheels for the purpose.
Add-On Features
Though you get to pay a little more, add-ons improve the overall experience. Among the most notable are app integration, a built-in sound system, a media tray, a water bottle holder, and an integrated tablet holder.
Weight Capacity
Aim for a weight limit that’s at least 50 pounds more than your weight. It’s a major concern, particularly for chubby guys.
Warranty
For every product, you want some reassurance that it’s going to last. Well, a warranty provides such reassurance. However, aim for a warranty of at least one year.
Brand
The elliptical market is a segment with a ton of players. Unfortunately, not all meet the industry’s standard for quality and performance. Also, some have poor customer service. As such, I’ll advise that you buy an elliptical machine from a brand with a good reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question: What’s the best elliptical under $500 for hardcore users?
Answer: ANCHEER Elliptical Machine is easily the best. At 35 pounds, its flywheel provides the most intense workout.
Question: What’s the best elliptical under 500 for tall users?
Answer: A longer stride length works best for tall users. At 18 inches, Schwinn 411 is the best in this category.
Question: Which elliptical machine offers the most versatility?
Answer: As far as accommodating more functions goes, none beats ProForm Hybrid Trainer. It doubles as a recumbent bike to save you money and space.
Question: I want a machine that takes the guesswork out of my workout sessions. Which should I choose?
Answer: Well, aim for an elliptical machine with preset programs. And for that, I have two recommendations: Schwinn 411 and Sunny SF-E3912. They have preset programs that make them ready to go once set up.
Question: Which elliptical machine under $500 is best for office use?
Answer: A super-compact size and whisper-quiet operation are what you need for the office. In that regard, I vote Cubii Pro Seated Under-Desk Elliptical as the best.
Question: Can I get a Bluetooth-enabled elliptical for under $500?
Answer: Yes, you can. Some models offer such conveniences, such as Cubii Pro, ANCHEER Elliptical, ProForm Hybrid, and Schwinn 411.
Conclusion
I hope my list of the best elliptical under $500 has been of great help. But to reap the most benefits, I’ll advise that you buy a machine that best fits your needs and budgets. Well, there are other decent models out there. But for me, these are the ones that provide the best value for money. So, take your time and choose wisely.
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