[Top 6] Best Cheap Elliptical Reviewed | Many options under $200

This is our review of the Best Cheap Elliptical in .

If you’re looking to get a full-body workout at home but need help deciding which equipment to buy, consider buying an elliptical. An elliptical is a great equipment that offers a full body low-impact workout that is easy on the joints. 

Price is often the key deciding factor in the thought “to buy or not to buy.” Have no worry. We have got you covered there. After extensive research, we have found 6 such top-notch products offering great value for money. 

The Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical is the best budget elliptical. Even though it is compact, with a small footprint, it has an 18″ stride length and a 300 lbs weight capacity.  

Having said that, also check out the other best affordable ellipticals across different categories to make the best choice for yourself.

Best Cheap Elliptical (Overall)	Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical
Best Cheap Elliptical (Hybrid)	Body Power 3-In-1 Elliptical Bike 5088
Best Cheap Elliptical (Heavy-duty)	Exerpeutic 2000 XL Heavy Duty Magnetic Elliptical
Best Cheap Elliptical (Compact)	Sunny Fitness Elliptical SF-E905
Best Cheap Elliptical (Walker)	Gazelle Freestyle Folding Elliptical Trainer
Best Cheap Elliptical (Under-desk)	Stamina Inmotion Elliptical

We have also covered the benefits, buying guide, and common queries regarding budget ellipticals after the product reviews. So do have a look. 

6 Best Cheap Ellipticals Reviewed

All the ellipticals listed below provide a whole-body low-impact workout. However, consult with your physician first if you have a medical condition. 

Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical –  Best Cheap Elliptical (Overall)

The Schwinn 411 Elliptical is the best affordable elliptical as it offers the best value for money for the features it provides. 

The compact elliptical is specially designed to save space. And for its small footprint, it has an impressive 18” stride. It is a fraction of the size of other ellipticals and an uncommonly comfortable stride length for a compact machine.

It has two sets of padded handlebars – fixed and moving. The fixed handlebars are fitted with heart rate sensors to monitor the intensity of your training sessions. And the moving handlebars engage your upper body, allowing you a full-body workout. 

16 levels of magnetic resistance ensure you keep getting fitter as you workout regularly, and 300 lbs weight capacity accommodates most family users. 

This elliptical also syncs with the Explore the World app. It allows you to explore more than 50 global routes that automatically adjust to your speed. 

The elliptical is also equipped with a streamlined 5.5-inch high-contrast LCD console. It tracks all your workout metrics, like distance, speed, time, calories, and heart rate. All this makes it the best-value elliptical in the market. 

Why do we love it	What you need to consider
Small footprint with long stride length	No transport wheels
High user weight capacity
Good warranty

Summary of customer reviews

Customers love the Schwinn 411 as it is sturdy, compact, and comfortable. The small footprint makes it perfect for places like a condo or small apartment. They also endorse it as a value-for-money investment.  

Body Power 3-In-1 Trainer 5088 – Best Cheap Hybrid Elliptical 

The Body Power Trio 5088 is a 3-in-1 trainer that can be used as an elliptical, recumbent bike and upright stationary bike. The best part about this hybrid is that you don’t need to dismount to adjust the equipment to transition between its modes. 

Despite being a 3-in-1 trainer, it is designed to save space. This hybrid trainer provides a low-impact workout that is easy on your joints and also helps target different muscle groups. You can also adjust the resistance using a knob to customize your training according to your needs. 

The Body Power Trio comes with three sets of handlebars. The fixed U-shaped handlebars are used for upright stationary bikes. The moving handlebars are used for ellipticals, and under-the-seat handlebars are used for recumbent bikes. These ensure you are comfortable in each of the workout positions. 

The trainer is fitted with an easy-to-use console that tracks all your workout statistics like distance, time, speed, calories, and pulse rate. A pulse rate sensor is also fitted on the fixed handlebar so that you can manage your heart rate during the workouts. 

It also has transport wheels, making moving it from one place to another easier.

Why do we love it?	What do you need to consider?
3 different workout options	Small console screen
Hassle-free transition between modes	Short warranty
Transport wheels

Summary of customer reviews

Users vouch for the ease of use of the  Body Power Trio 5088. The elliptical is easy to assemble and comes with easy instructions. However, some customers have complained about parts getting loose after a few workout sessions. The elliptical also starts showing wear and tear after a year. 

Exerpeutic 2000XL Heavy Duty Magnetic Elliptical – Best Cheap Heavy-duty Elliptical

The Exerpeutic 2000XL is a heavy-duty elliptical that falls nicely into the budget. With a remarkable maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs, this is a sturdy machine that eliminates any bouncy movements. 

It comes with 8 levels of resistance which can be adjusted with the help of a knob to increase the intensity of the workout. This Exerpeutic affordable elliptical also has two sets of handlebars – fixed and moving, to target different muscle groups. The pulse sensor on the fixed handlebars helps to track your pulse rate. 

And you can also pedal in both forward and backward motion to target different muscles.  

The elliptical is equipped with a large, easy-to-read 3.4″ LCD console which indicates metrics like distance, speed, time, calories, and heart rate. It also has Bluetooth connectivity and lets you track all your workouts on your mobile devices via the MyCloudFitness app. 

It has a precision balanced flywheel that offers you a smooth and quiet workout without disturbing anyone. The elliptical also has built-in transportation wheels, which makes it easier to move and store when not in use. 

Why do we love it?	What do you need to consider?
High user weight capacity	Short warranty
Bluetooth connectivity
Transportation wheels
Forward and reverse motion

Summary of customer reviews

Customers love the heavy-duty Exerpeutic 2000XL as it is quiet and sturdy in operation. They find it is an excellent elliptical at a great price. However, some users have faced challenges in assembling the elliptical. 

Sunny Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical – Best Cheap Compact Elliptical

The Sunny – SF-E905 has one of the smallest footprints when comparing the best low-value ellipticals. And so it is an excellent option if your biggest concern is space.  

It has non-slip foot pedals and multi-grip handlebars so you can have a comfortable workout. And a digital display monitor shows all the essential tracking metrics like time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse.  

The stride length is 11″, which is considered slightly small and can be a point of concern for tall individuals.  

Its lightweight also makes it easy to move around the house if required.  

It doesn’t come with too many bells and whistles but gives you a power-packed workout, making it great value for your money.  

Why do we love it?	What do you need to consider?
Small footprint	Short stride length
Value for money	Limited weight capacity
Easy to move

Summary of customer reviews

Users see this machine as good value for their money, easy to use, and silent. Many tall customers have stated they are comfortable with the short stride length. There are a few mentions about the resistance being similar at different levels. Also, assembling the machine can be complicated, but YouTube videos come in handy here.  

Gazelle Freestyle Folding Elliptical Trainer – Best Cheap Walker

The Gazelle Foldable Elliptical Trainer is quite famous among users due to its hassle-free assembly and super compact size. It also weighs only 46 lbs and so is very easy to move around.

While the elliptical doesn’t offer high-tech functions, it targets all the major muscle groups, giving you a full-body, low-impact workout.

You can track metrics like time, distance, calories, and speed of your workout session. It also tracks heart rate using a built-in pulse monitor at the thumb. 

This elliptical also comes with two DVDs with various workout routines.

All these features make it one of the best inexpensive elliptical walker on the market.

Why do we love it?	What do you need to consider?
Easy to move and store	No resistance
Super compact

Summary of customer reviews

Most users love using the Gazelle Freestyle Folding Elliptical Trainer as it is a handy machine compared to other high-tech variants. Although it is easily movable and offers hassle-free storage, some users find it hard to assemble.

Stamina Inmotion Elliptical – Best Cheap Under-desk Elliptical

The Stamina Inmotion elliptical is an extremely versatile and budget under-desk elliptical. The reason why we love this machine is that it allows you to multitask and save time.

Since it is an under-desk elliptical, you can work out while you are working or watching television. Depending on your position, you can train while standing or sitting. 

You can adjust the intensity of your workout to make your training more challenging. And you can also use both forward and backward motion to target different muscles.  

Another remarkable feature of this machine is the presence of textured pedals. Textured pedals give your feet a secure grip, especially during demanding workouts.

The elliptical also has a small multi-function monitor which tracks statistics like total strides, number of strides per minute, exercise time, and calories burned. This elliptical also supports the müüv app, which offers personalized workouts and tailored videos per your requirement. 

This under-desk elliptical is so compact and lightweight that you can move it easily and store it anywhere. 

Why do we love it	What you need to consider
Under-desk elliptical	Short warranty
Forward and reverse motion
Compact and lightweight

Summary of customer reviews

Customers love Stamina Inmotion elliptical because they can workout while sitting. In fact, they tend to workout longer for this very reason. However, some customers have complained about squeaky noises from the elliptical after use. 

Benefits of Using an Elliptical

An elliptical is a top choice for a home workout as it offers a range of advantages.

Weight loss

Depending on your weight, a 30-minute workout on the elliptical can help you burn 270 to 378 calories. So, an elliptical is an efficient way to lose weight as you burn calories. This, of course, needs to be supported with a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. 

If you further want to enhance your workout performance, you can opt for a pre-workout drink. While a lot of brands in the market contain creatine and we understand that not everybody wants to consume it. That’s why we have reviewed some of the best pre-workouts without any additional creatine in them. 

Full-body workout

An elliptical is one of the few equipments that offers a full-body workout. Unlike many other cardio equipments, the elliptical engages both your lower and upper body muscles. The prime targets are the glutes, quads, hamstrings, chest, triceps, biceps, and core muscles. 

Low impact on joints

Working out on an elliptical is comparatively less weight-bearing than other cardio workouts like running, jogging, etc. Training on an elliptical puts less stress on your joints as your feet never leave the pedal, thus offering a great low-impact workout experience.     

Improve balance and mobility

Balance and mobility are crucial factors in a workout. An elliptical helps to improve balance and mobility by engaging all muscles and strengthening the leg and core.

Injury prevention

Ellipticals are generally safer than other workout equipment like treadmills, as there are fewer chances of injuries. 

Improve overall health

Besides burning calories, ellipticals also help increase stamina, reduce blood pressure, and improve blood and oxygen circulation. Together, these contribute to better health and fitness.

Buying Guide: What to look for in the best affordable elliptical?

Here are the key factors to look for while buying the best budget elliptical: 

Price

The price is the foremost factor to consider before buying an elliptical. An elliptical price usually ranges between $150 to $5,000. So, decide how much you want to spend. However, it’s important to remember that the extra features of the elliptical will depend on your budget.

Build quality

The frame material and its quality are important considerations when purchasing an elliptical. An elliptical should have a strong, high-quality frame that can withstand heavy weight and is stable during workouts. A solidly built elliptical will have a longer life and reduce the chance of workout-related injuries.

Type of elliptical

Ellipticals can be categorized basis your workout posture i.e., recumbent, standing, or hybrid. They can even be categorized based on compactness, i.e., foldable or non-foldable. Additionally, basis the positioning of the flywheel and drive system, ellipticals are of three types – front drive, rear drive, and center drive. 

So, you should decide on the type of elliptical you want based on the space availability and your workout goals.

Resistance and incline

An elliptical’s resistance and incline are crucial since they determine how you advance in your fitness journey. You should consider having an adjustable resistance and incline while buying an elliptical, as it adds intensity to your workout and makes it more challenging.

User weight capacity

It is crucial to consider the maximum weight capacity of an elliptical before buying it. An elliptical with high weight capacity is generally more stable and prevents injuries. We recommend purchasing an elliptical whose maximum weight capacity is more than the heaviest person using it.

Warranty

Over time, fitness equipment experiences wear and tear, so you need to look good warranty. It is preferable to ensure the elliptical you purchase has a long warranty covering the frame, body components, and labor.

Conclusion

If you want to get fitter but do not have time to visit the gym, investing in an elliptical at home is a great option. And though there are many factors you need to consider while buying one, the budget remains a priority for most people.

As per our research, Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical is the best elliptical for your home if you’re operating on a budget and looking for a compact version. It provides an excellent cardio experience. With over 16 levels of resistance and a weight capacity of up to 300 lbs, the elliptical ensures to challenge any fitness regimen. 

FAQs

Are home ellipticals worth it?

Yes, ellipticals are totally worth it for home workouts. They are not just easy on joints but also help you to lose weight and improve cardiovascular health. Moreover, a home elliptical cuts down on time and money spent on a gym.

We have even reviewed some great treadmills options if you’re living in an apartment. Not only do these treadmill ensure a great workout from the comfort of your home, they are also quite compact. 

How much does a cheap elliptical cost?

A good cheap elliptical is one that gives you a good workout but does not have many fancy features. Generally, affordable ellipticals range between $150 and $500. 

Can you lose belly fat by using a budget elliptical?

Yes, a budget elliptical can help you lose belly fat. An elliptical is designed to provide a great cardio workout that helps burn calories and, in turn, aids your efforts to get a toned body and belly.

Do keep in mind though, that a toned belly is the result of a combination of factors, including following a healthy diet, ensuring proper sleep, adequate hydration, and an active lifestyle.

Is a budget elliptical better than walking?

Yes, working out on an elliptical is better than walking, as it helps to burn more calories. The more challenging intensity you select on your elliptical, the more calories you can burn. Also, ellipticals are easier on the joints, which is not the case when you walk on uneven surfaces. 

What are the main differences between cheap vs. expensive ellipticals?

The main difference between a cheap and expensive elliptical is that an expensive elliptical is loaded with features like Bluetooth connectivity, mobile tracking, high weight capacity, foldable mechanism, etc. 

However, if you have a limited budget and don’t mind giving up some features, a budget elliptical is the right fit for you. 

Where is the best place to buy the best affordable elliptical machine?

Amazon offers a wide range of elliptical machines in the market. Alternatively, you can buy ellipticals from stores like Walmart and Target, among others. 

How much should you spend on an elliptical machine?

This entirely depends on how much you would like to invest. For many people, it is essential to stay within a budget. The 6 ellipticals we have included in this article ensure that you can choose from machines of excellent quality and features at very affordable prices. 

What is a good inexpensive elliptical machine?

A good inexpensive elliptical offers a great workout experience at a minimal price. As per our research, Stamina Inmotion elliptical is a great cheap elliptical. It is an under-desk elliptical which can be used anywhere. You can workout while working, studying, or reading the newspaper. 

What is the best elliptical machine for the money?

The best value elliptical is Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical. This elliptical offers a low-impact workout that is easy on the joints. Even though it has a stride length of just 18 inches, the elliptical has a small footprint and does not take up much of your space. You can check the detailed review above.

Disclaimer: The information mentioned in the article above is for educational and informational purposes only. It shouldn’t be considered health or medical advice. Please consult a doctor or a qualified health professional if you have any medical/health conditions questions.