9 Best Ellipticals Under $500 in 2024

Elliptical machines provide a convenient, joint-friendly way to exercise at home or the gym. With the built-in handles, they also incorporate your upper body and can be used as a stationary bike depending on the design.

Despite the multiple benefits and durable designs, ellipticals don’t have to break the bank when purchasing. I’ve reviewed the best ellipticals under $500 according to the most important factors and ranked them down below. I’ll give you my top pick for the best elliptical under $500, so you can make a good choice for your home gym.

Top 9 Best Ellipticals Under $500 Reviewed

1. Sunny Health & Fitness Essentials Elliptical Machine – Top Pick
2. Body Power 2-in-1 Elliptical & Stair Stepper – Runner-Up
3. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical – Best Portable
4. Body Rider Elliptical Machine & Stationary Bike
5. Body Champ 3-in-1 Home Gym Bike, Elliptical & Recumbent Bike
6. MaxiClimber XL-2000 Hydraulic Resistance Vertical Climber
7. Exerpeutic Heavy Duty Magnetic Elliptical
8. ANCHEER Elliptical Machine
9. Funmily Elliptical Machine

Each home elliptical under $500 has been ranked below according to Adjustability, Monitor Performance, Portability, Multifunctionality, and price/quality.

Product	Total	Adjustability	Monitor Functionality	Portability	Multifunctionality	Price/ Quality
Sunny Health & Fitness	48	9	10	10	9	10
Body Power	47	9	9.5	9.5	9.5	9.5
Sunny Health & Fitness	47	9	9.5	10	9	9.5
Body Rider	46.5	9.5	9	9	9.5	9.5
Body Champ	46.5	9.5	10	8	10	9
Body Power	46	9.5	9	9	10	8.5
Exerpeutic	45.5	9	9.5	8.5	9	9.5
ANCHEER	44	9	9	9	9	8
Funmily	44	9	9	9	9	8

1. Sunny Health & Fitness Essentials Elliptical Machine – Top Pick

Sunny Health & Fitness is dedicated to providing athletes of all abilities with high-quality fitness equipment for a healthier and happier life. The brand believes that working out should be available to anyone who needs it.

• Type/ Model: General Elliptical 
• Item Weight: 60.8 lbs
• Weight Limit: 220 lbs
• Product Dimensions: 26.4″ D x 39.4″ W x 59.8″ H
• Display: Calories, Distance, Odometer, Pulse, Speed, Time
• Workout Programs: SunnyFit App with Workout Plans
• Additional Features: Device Holder, SunnyFit App, Magnetic Resistance

The Sunny Health & Fitness Essentials Elliptical Machine is one of the most popular budget ellipticals on the market, and for good reason. It uses a precise rear-drive magnetic resistance mechanism that comes from a tension cable, stronger than a normal belt drive.

It has an 11″ stride length and features a set of long upper body handles and fixed resistance handlebars. This allows you to choose whether you want to work your upper body or not. 

Constructed from steel, the Essentials Elliptical weighs 61 lbs and supports up to 220 lbs of user weight. It measures 26.4″ D x 39.4″ W x 59.8″ H and comes with a set of handy transport wheels and balance stabilizers under the feet.

The adjustable black tension knob at the front of the elliptical gives you 8 resistance levels to choose from during your workout. The centrally located LCD monitor measures distance, calories burned, speed, time, and heart rate via the built-in pulse sensing grips on the handles.

The monitor is Bluetooth enabled with the Sunny Health & Fitness app, allowing you to see your performance metrics and connect with professional trainers online. If you need someone to put your device, use the device holder located above the monitor.

2. Body Power 2-in-1 Elliptical & Stair Stepper - Runner-Up

Body Power is a fitness and lifestyle brand supplying domestic and commercial health and fitness equipment to recreational exercisers and serious athletes around the world.

• Type/ Model: 2-in-1 Elliptical + Stair Stepper 
• Item Weight: 96.8 lbs (Package Weight)
• Weight Limit: 250 lbs
• Product Dimensions: 24" D x 42" W x 62" H
• Display: Calories, Time, Speed, Distance
• Workout Programs: 8 Resistance Levels
• Additional Features: Curve-crank Technology, Stepper Machine

The Body Power BST800 combines the benefits of two cardio machines - the elliptical and the stepper. This gives you the joint-friendly low-impact elliptical movement with a higher-intensity calorie burning stepper pattern. This has been accomplished with Body Power’s curve crank technology that dispenses force in two directions. 

The adjustable black tension knob offers 8 levels of resistance via the smooth flywheel operation, with a maximum stride length of 18". The two sets of built-in foot pedals have flat, open-back platforms that are angled to suit the curve crank motion. At the front of the frame, the fixed L-shaped handles have pulse sensors for heart rate monitoring.

The BST800 measures 24" D x 42" W x 62" H and can handle up to 250 lbs of user weight. The front roller wheels allow you to move the elliptical stair combo around your home gym with relative ease. 

The LCD monitor is quite simple looking but measures the most important parameters which include time, speed, calories burned, and distance. Above the screen is a handy media device shelf, allowing you to perform a custom workout or follow along with your favorite cardio workout.

3. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical - Best Portable

Next up is another product from Sunny Health & Fitness. This time, it's their SF-E3872 model that's been designed to fit under your desk and provide you with an elliptical workout at home or work. 

• Type/ Model: Under Desk Elliptical
• Item Weight: 25 lbs
• Weight Limit: 220 lbs
• Product Dimensions: 24" D x 19" W x 11" H
• Display: Time, Speed, Calories, Distance
• Workout Programs: 8 Resistance Levels
• Additional Features: Glide Wheels, Carry Handle

Next up is another product from Sunny Health & Fitness. This time, it's their SF-E3872 model that's been designed to fit under your desk and provide you with an elliptical workout at home or work. 

The ultra-compact design measuring 24" D x 19" W x 11" H fits under any sized desk or table at home, allowing you to keep workout or watch your favorite show whilst working out. It weighs just 25 lbs and has a convenient carry handle, so you can pick it up with no trouble and take it to where you need it.

The elliptical uses the same drive mechanism as the larger Sunny Health & Fitness model, combining magnetic resistance with a belt drive for a smooth, low-maintenance exercise experience. It’s operated using wheels that move along the glide rails in a 7" stride length.

If you want an extra challenge, use the black tension knob to choose between 8 progressive resistance levels. If you're worried about your feet slipping, the longer foot pedals are textured with non-slip material to give you a secure footing. 

The digital monitor keeps track of your workout progress, measuring time, speed, calories burned, and distance.

4. Body Rider Elliptical Machine & Stationary Bike

Body Rider aims to use high-quality materials in the construction of all its products, with quality control at each stage of the manufacturing process. They want you to have a workout experience that's easy to perform and available at a low cost. 

• Type/ Model: Machine + Bike
• Item Weight: 66 lbs
• Weight Limit: 250 lbs
• Product Dimensions: ‎48" D x 28.5" W x 59.5" H
• Display: Distance, Time, Speed, Calories
• Additional Features: Adjustable Handlebars + Seat, Front + Rear Stabilizers, Adjustable Tension Knob

The Body Rider BRD2000 dual trainer machine combines the elliptical and stationary bike. To operate it as an elliptical, bring the seat fully back and use the long foot pedals. Bring it forward to use it as a stationary bike. The seat also adjusts vertically to provide you with maximum comfort during your workout.

The BRD2000 operates using a chain-driven high-momentum fan blade that produces a breeze as you exercise. The black tension knob is conveniently located just below the seat, allowing you to adjust the tension level as needed. The long elliptical handlebars have 3 height adjustment options, whilst the smaller stationary handles fit around the central console.

Made from steel, the BRD2000 supports up to 250 lbs of user weight and measures ‎48" D x 28.5" W x 59.5" H. The front and rear stabilizers provide added security, stopping the elliptical from moving from side to side during an intense workout. 

The easy-to-use monitor displays time, calories, speed, and distance.

5. Body Champ 3-in-1 Home Gym Bike, Elliptical & Recumbent Bike

Founded in 1993, Body Champ produces a wide range of health and fitness equipment, including power cages and cardio machines such as the elliptical combo. They aim to provide relief and support to people struggling with stress and other issues in life.

• Type/ Model: 3-in-1 Elliptical + Stationary bike + Recumbent Bike
• Item Weight: 108 lbs (Package Weight)
• Weight Limit: 250 lbs
• Product Dimensions: 60" D x 28" W x 64" H
• Display: Time, Speed, Calories, Distance
• Workout Programs: 21 Training Programs
• Additional Features: Bike and Recumbent Bike Mode, Faux Leather Adjustable Seats, Three Handlebars

Body Champ has designed a 3-in-1 cardio machine that combines an elliptical, stationary bike, and recumbent bike to give you a range of workout options at home. 

The multi-functional machine gives you excellent value for money using one piece of kit. With its seamless patented design, you're able to transition between the 3 exercise modes without making any pedal adjustments or getting off the equipment. 

The three sets of integrated handlebars allow you to choose from the pro cycle, dual-action, and stationary wrap-around modes. The stationary handles feature pulse sensors for heart rate monitoring during your workout.

The stitched faux leather seat and back pad adjust vertically and horizontally, allowing you to move it according to your workout mode and body dimensions. 

The BRT7989 can handle up to 250 lbs of user weight and measures 60" D x 28" W x 64" H. Whilst this is bigger than my other elliptical choices, the 3 exercise functions offered still save you a lot of space compared to buying the three machines individually.

Perhaps one of the biggest benefits of choosing the Body Champ 3-in-1 machine is the 21 training programs to choose and use the LCD console with a built-in media shelf. The measurements shown include time, speed, calories, and distance

6. Body Power 3-in-1 Exercise Machine

Body Power offers another 3-in-1 exercise machine option with their BRT5118 model. The compact trainer combines an elliptical, upright bike, and recumbent bike to give you a space-saving, budget-friendly equipment choice. 

• Type/ Model: 3-in-1 Elliptical + Stationary Bike + Reccumbent Bike 
• Item Weight: 90 lbs
• Weight Limit: 250 lbs
• Product Dimensions: 25" D x 63" W x 55" H
• Display: Calories Burned, Time, Speed, Distance
• Additional Features: Transport Wheel, Fluidity Flywheel System

At first glance, it looks great with a red and black design and the Body Power logo on the side. The whole unit is encased in hardened black plastic, with the fluidity flywheel system situated at the front.

The cushioned seat and back pad offers a great range of adjustment options horizontally and vertically, with three sets of integrated handlebars to choose from. The stationary U-shaped handlebars have built-in pulse sensors with dual action elliptical style handlebars outside of them. For the recumbent bike mode, the wrap-around handlebars are situated at the base of the seat.

The magnetic resistance is easily adjusted with the 8-level tension knob in front of the seat, with a design allowing you to transition between the three exercise modes effortlessly. The BRT5118 measures 25" D x 63" W x 55" H and can handle up to 250 lbs of user weight. It’s easy to transport around using the front carry wheels. 

The LCD console tracks time, calories burned, speed, and distance.

7. Exerpeutic Heavy Duty Magnetic Elliptical

Founded in 2007, Exerpuetic manufactures health and wellness products, including cardio machines such as ellipticals. 

• Type/ Model: General Elliptical 
• Item Weight: 74.5 lbs
• Weight Limit: 300 lbs
• Product Dimensions: 54" D x 23" W x 63" H
• Display: Calories Burned, Time, Speed
• Workout Programs: 8 Resistance Levels
• Additional Features: Large LCD Window, Bluetooth SmartCloud Fitness App

The 2000XL magnetic resistance heavy-duty elliptical from Exerpeutic has a great maximum user capacity of 300 lbs. The large 3.4 LCD console features Bluetooth smart technology with the MyCloudFitness app included. This allows you to track your workouts on both android and iOS devices, with three workout settings including time, distance, and calories burned. 

If you don’t like the Bluetooth feature, Exerpuetic has given you two model options, allowing you to purchase the Bluetooth free option at a lower price point.

Despite the big weight capacity, the 2000XL weighs just 74.5 lbs and measures 54" D x 23" W x 63" H. The magnetic resistance mechanism can be adjusted via the black tension knob, with 8 workout level options. 

The gold-colored frame features 2 sets of handlebars. The stationary U-shaped bars wrap around the LCD console and feature pulse sensor monitors. The longer elliptical-style handlebars extend upwards and come finished with a black rubber handle grip. 

The longer black feet pads have textured non-slip surfaces, with inside guards to keep your feet in place.

8. ANCHEER Elliptical Machine

Ancheer prides itself on producing quality health and fitness products. With distribution centers placed all over the world, they look to provide competitive prices and excellent customer service.

• Type/ Model: General Elliptical 
• Item Weight: 79 lbs
• Weight Limit: 390 lbs
• Product Dimensions: 47" D x 24" W x 60" H
• Display: Calories, Time, Speed, Distance, Miles done
• Workout Programs: 10 Resistance Levels
• Additional Features: Anti-slip Suckers, Transport Wheels, V Belt Flywheel Drive

The elliptical machine from ANCHEER features the joint biggest weight capacity out of all my budget choices at 390 lbs. It also offers the biggest range of resistance levels, with 10 to choose from. It features a wider base design for added stability and four anti-slip floor suckers to stop it from moving around if you want to take your workout to the next level.

The 18 lb built-in magnetic flywheel and V-belt drive give you a smooth and quiet workout experience. To adjust the resistance level, use the tension knob in the middle of the handlebar frame. 

The silver and black frame is constructed from steel and lightweight aluminum, weighing 79 lbs and measuring 47" D x 24" W x 60" H.

At the front of the frame, the stationary handles with pulse sensors or longer elliptical-style handles give you two options to choose from. The extra-long foot pedals contain ridges to prevent your feet from slipping out.

The nicely-designed LCD console measures heart rate, calories, time, speed, and distance. With built-in Bluetooth connectivity, you're able to connect to the sports app for some fun and exercise routines.

9. Funmily Elliptical Machine

Funmily produces a wide range of equipment to keep your body in shape, including cardio machines, trampolines, and fitness accessories. They take a client-centered approach to designing and manufacturing all of their products.

• Type/ Model: General Elliptical 
• Item Weight: 77 lbs (Package Weight)
• Weight Limit: 390 lbs
• Product Dimensions: 47" D x 24" W x 60" H
• Display: Speed, Distance, Time, Calories, Heart Rate Pulse, RPM
• Workout Programs: Free Mobile Training APP
• Additional Features: Built-in Gadget Holder, Bluetooth App Compatible

The Funmily Elliptical Cross Trainer offers the same 390 lb weight capacity as the ANCHEER elliptical, but weighs slightly less at around 77 lbs. This means it’s solid enough to handle any size of a user, but lightweight enough to move around the house. It measures 47" D x 24" W x 60" H and includes a pair of front transport wheels.

The study steel frame looks great with a glossy type finish and comes in black or gray, with the Funmily logo on the side in orange and white.

The EM-530GR is powered by an 18 lb belt-driven magnetic flywheel, with 10 resistance levels to choose from via the black tension knob at the front of the frame. With the EM-530GR, you're able to use it in reverse motion, allowing you to put more emphasis on your glute and hamstring muscles. 

It features a long 15-stride length that provides taller users with a comfortable workout experience. The extra-large foot pedals have a textured plastic grip surface that increases friction during exercise.

The ergonomic dual handlebars allow you to focus on different muscle groups depending on which you use. Push the longer handles forward to work your full body and grip the stationary center handlebars for a harder lower-body focused session.

The centrally located LCD monitor gives you a variety of readouts which include time, speed, heart rate, distance, and calories burned. If you want to connect your tablet to the free mobile app, use the in-built tablet and phone holder underneath the console.

What Are the Differences Between Ellipticals Under $500 and Higher?

When purchasing the best elliptical machine under $500, you might think there are huge differences that change your workout experience. That's not usually the case, with most differences being small, allowing you to still get a good workout.

1. Construction

In terms of the frame construction, most of the same quality metals and hardware will be used compared to the standard models. If you're paying a premium price for your elliptical, expect higher gauge steel and hardware.

With ellipticals under $500, the material used for the seats and handles may be slightly different, with a more simple, minimalist type design used to cut costs. Despite this, the ellipticals still maintain the same functionality needed.

2. Monitor Features 

Usually, one of the biggest differences between ellipticals under $500 and higher-priced models is the features and display shown on the monitor. Budget-friendly ellipticals tend to have smaller, more simple looking monitors that measure most of the same workout parameters but with a simpler readout. 

More expensive and premium models may offer added measures such as heart rate monitors, but the most important measures are shown by both. Alongside this, higher-priced models tend to have apps that take you through workout programs or provide feedback on your progress. Some ellipticals under $500 may offer this.

3. Warranty Offered

The warranty offered on budget ellipticals by the manufacturer tends to be lower. As ellipticals are built using durable materials, this shouldn't be an issue with correct use. 

4. Adjustability

Adjustability refers to the number of options offered by the elliptical in terms of seat position, handle type, and tension level. Whilst ellipticals under $500 may offer fewer options, there is still plenty for a comfortable and customizable ride.

What to Look For in Ellipticals Under $500?

Here are some of the most important factors to look for when buying the best elliptical under $700:

1. Adjustability

Ellipticals under $500 offer different adjustment options depending on the chosen brand. In terms of movement, some ellipticals offer ramp adjustments, allowing you to adjust the length of your stride. This means some offer the option for you to use the elliptical in more of a stair climber motion, whilst some cater to a much longer stride length.

Another adjustment option is the resistance level offered. Most ellipticals have a tension knob built into the front of the frame that you can twist up and down to change the resistance level. With this, you can change your workout from cardio-based to a session focusing on muscular strength and endurance.

Some combination ellipticals have adjustable seats that move vertically and horizontally for you to customize your workout experience according to your body dimensions.

2. Monitor Functionality

Most ellipticals under $500 have centrally located LCD or LED monitors that feed back a range of physical measures during your workout. These include distance, time, RPM, speed, and calories burned. Most monitors allow you to change the display shown with an easy press of a button.

Some ellipticals under $500 offer heart rate sensors built into the handle that allow you to work out based on your heart rate readout. Alongside this, some monitors have built-in workout programs or handy built-in app compatibility that allow you to follow along if you prefer workout guidance. Monitors also vary in size, shape, and portability.

3. Portability

If you have a smaller gym space or need to use your home gym area for more than just working out, easy portability is an important factor. Portability is determined by machine size, dimensions, and extra portability features offered on the frame.

Some machines offer lightweight designs that are much easier to move around compared with heavier ones. Ellipticals offering compact designs allow you to place them in a small corner of your home gym without taking up too much space or getting in the way.

Extra portability features include transport wheels at the front of the frame and carry handles on the frame or near the seat. 

4. Multifunctionality

Ellipticals under $500 offer different functions depending on the frame and power mechanism. The main types include 2-in-1 combo machines that function as an elliptical and stationary bike or 3-in-1 combos that function as an elliptical, bike, and recumbent bike.

Others allow you to change the movement slightly to function as more of a stair climber machine. 

5. Price/Quality 

If you’re pitching a budget elliptical for under $500, it doesn’t mean that you need to sacrifice design features or build quality, with many great options on the market. Quality frames should be built using durable metal, with some powder coated and finished with protective rubber or foam at the main stress areas.

If your elliptical has a stationary or recumbent bike mode, the seat may be made from higher quality materials such as leather and feature reinforced stitching to increase durability.

How to Use Ellipticals Correctly?

Follow this step by step guide to use an elliptical machine correctly and safely:

1. Make sure the elliptical is on a suitable surface. It should be flat and preferably concrete. If you need to place it on a glossy or slightly uneven surface, either use a non-slip equipment mat or make sure the elliptical has protective grip surfaces on the feet.
2. Step onto the machine facing the console using the lowest foot pedal position first. This is to limit initial movement before getting a stable body position.
3. Make sure both your feet and hands are placed correctly on the foot pedals and handles, respectively.
4. Start pedaling to turn on the monitor. Push the pedals forward with your feet whilst maintaining an even body motion.
5. Before increasing your intensity, perform a 5-minute warm-up at a slower pace.
6. Perform a suitable workout using a preprogrammed workout or using the built-in apps offered by some brands.

FAQ

Is Doing the Elliptical for 30 Minutes a Day Good?

Doing elliptical-based exercise for 30 minutes each day has a host of health and fitness benefits including increased cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance and strength, reduced chances of diseases and illness, and calories burning. It's also in line with the current weekly exercise recommendation of 150 minutes per week.

Are Ellipticals Better Than Walking?

Ellipticals provide a low-impact way to exercise, making them more suitable for older populations of people with joint issues. They also burn slightly more calories compared to walking and can be done in any weather and from the comfort of your own home.

Which one is better largely depends on personal preference, with a mixture of the two usually being the best choice.

Summary - Which Elliptical Under $500 is the best?

The Sunny Health & Fitness Essentials Elliptical Machine is my top pick best compact elliptical under $500. It’s the best overall elliptical choice out of my top 9 options, offering an excellent LCD console display and built in app, some nice extra features, and lower pedal height. It also comes at a great budget friendly price point under $500.

What do you think of the budget ellipticals I’ve reviewed above? Do you have one in your home gym? Let’s discuss in the comments section below.

Also read:

• How Long On Elliptical To See Results
• Rear Drive Vs Front Drive Elliptical
• Does the Elliptical Work Your Stomach
• Best Affordable Elliptical
• Elliptical vs Stair Climber

References:

1. Stationary bicycle // Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stationary_bicycle.
2. Treadmill vs. Elliptical: Which One Is Better? // Verywellfit: https://www.verywellfit.com/treadmills-vs-elliptical-trainers-is-one-better-1229606.
3. How to Choose a Stepper? // Insportline: https://www.insportline.eu/advisor/82-how-to-choose-a-stepper.
4. Elliptical Instruction 101: Technique and Tips // Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWfswVvOaiI.
5. How much physical activity do adults need? // Cdc: https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm.
6. Elliptical vs. Walking: Which Is a Better Workout? // Livestrong: https://www.livestrong.com/article/313959-which-is-better-walking-or-using-an-elliptical/.