6 Best Quiet Ellipticals for Apartment in 2024

Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy (21 years of Oly Lifting experience)

Living in an apartment can be great, but it’s not always the quietest environment. If you’re wanting to build a home gym, choosing the best quiet elliptical for apartment spaces is important for your comfort and that of the surrounding others.

Ellipticals are excellent pieces of gym equipment. They are durable, easy to use, and offer a range of versatile uses. They provide a low-impact, full-body workout option that can be customized according to your goals, with a great range of resistance levels available.

Whilst you may think ellipticals can be noisy, some are designed as no-noise alternatives. In this guide, I’ve broken down my top 6 quiet elliptical machines and presented them below.

Best Quiet Ellipticals for Apartment

Top 6 Best Quiet Ellipticals for Apartment Reviewed

  1. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Cross Trainer — Top Pick
  2. Sole Fitness Elliptical Machine — Runner-Up
  3. Niceday Elliptical Machine
  4. NordicTrack Space Saver Elliptical Machine
  5. Schwinn Fitness 430 Elliptical
  6. FUNMILY Elliptical Machine

Each apartment sized elliptical has been ranked according to adjustability, monitor functionality, portability, quietness, multifunctionality, and price/ quality. 

ProductTotalAdjustabilityMonitor
Functionality
PortabilityQuietnessMultifunctionalityPrice/
Quality
Sunny58.599.510101010
Sole Fitness5699.591099.5
Niceday55.599.591099
NordicTrack55.59.51091098
Schwinn559.5991098.5
FUNMILY55999.5109.58
TOP PICK

1. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Cross Trainer

Sunny Health & Fitness Elliptical Trainer
  • Type/Model: Elliptical Cross Trainer
  • Item Weight: 58.5 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 240 lbs
  • Product Dimensions: 43.7″ L x 24″ W x 59.4″ H
  • Display: Time, Speed, Distance, Odometer, Calories, Heart Rate
  • Workout Programs: 8 Resistance levels
  • Additional Features: Device Holder, Transportation Wheels, Pulse Sensors

Sunny Health & Fitness aims to provide athletes of all levels with high-quality fitness equipment. They want people to live a healthy and happy lifestyle by using affordable workout equipment. 

If you’re looking for a comprehensive full-body workout using the quietest elliptical, Sunny Health & Fitness has ticked all the boxes. Their SF-E3955 magnetic elliptical offers contactless, smooth resistance via the belt-driven mechanism.

With no contact between the moving parts, this improves the overall ride experience, reduces the noise produced, and lowers the amount of maintenance needed to keep the machine in top shape.

Made from tubular steel, the frame weighs 58.5 lbs and comes with a handy set of transport wheels, making it easy to move your elliptical from room to room. The stride length of 12.5″ results in an effective yet efficient workout, with 8 different resistance levels to choose from.

The SF-E3955 elliptical measures 43.7″ L x 24″ W x 49.4″ H and features two sets of handles, one fixed pair with pulse-sensing grips, and one movable pair that rotate alongside the foot pedals. The foot pedals feature a textured non-slip surface, giving you a stable base to work out with.

What’s particularly great about the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Cross Trainer is the digital LCD monitor. It’s nicely designed, with easy-to-use buttons and a simple but effective display. The monitor measures heart rate, speed, time, distance, and calories burned. Above the monitor is a handy graph showing heart rate values for different workout zones, allowing you to monitor the zone you’re in whilst working.

The device holder next to the monitor allows you to follow along with the Sunny Health & Fitness app or watch your favorite program.

58.5 EXPERT SCORE

Made from tubular steel, the frame weighs 58.5 lbs and comes with a handy set of transport wheels, making it easy to move your elliptical from room to room.


Adjustability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Quietness:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • Ultra-lightweight 58.5 lb frame with transport wheels 
  • Conveniently located device holder, allowing you to connect your phone or tablet to watch a program or favorite workout 
  • The built-in workout zone graph allows you to actively monitor your heart rate and change your effort based on the workout zone goal 

Could be better:

  • More resistance levels could be offered to provide a wider range of workout options 
RUNNER-UP

2. Sole Fitness Elliptical Machine

Sole Fitness Elliptical Machine
  • Type/Model: Magnetic Elliptical
  • Item Weight: 189 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 350 lbs
  • Product Dimensions: 71" D x 27" W x 58" H
  • Display: Heart rate, Calories, Time, Distance
  • Workout Programs: 10 Pre-set Programs
  • Additional Features: Cooling fan, Water bottle holder, Speaker

Sole Fitness has the vision to manufacture health and fitness equipment that performs with great durability. They believe in producing quality products for gym goers of all abilities. 

Like the SF-E3955, the Sole Fitness E25 Elliptical offers an ultra-quiet workout experience. With a 25 lb flywheel and a high gear ratio, the drive mechanism runs smoothly using a fluid, natural elliptical motion.

The E25 can be used in both forward and reverse motions, giving you more workout variety depending on your goals and preferences.

One of the unique selling points of the E25 is the power adjustable ramp, allowing you to change the ramp angle from 0-30 degrees with 20-22" of stride length to play with.

With this, you're able to add an extra challenge to your workout, focusing slightly more on muscular endurance and strength whilst still burning calories.

The frame is on the heavier side at 189 lbs but has a higher 350 lb weight limit and measures 71" D x 27" W x 58" H. The E25 features two sets of handles, with the movable ones featuring easy-press buttons allowing you to easily change the resistance as you work out.

The adjustable foot pedals have been well-thought-out as they have been designed with the help of a physical therapist. They feature a 2-degree inward slope, reducing ankle and knee stress.

One of the most striking things about the E25 is the large LCD console with a 6.5" backlit display. It helps you track essential workout data including time, distance, heart rate, calories burned, and speed.

The console offers 10 preset workouts to choose from, with a built-in cooling fan, sound system, and bottle holder as an added bonus.

56 EXPERT SCORE

One of the unique selling points of the E25 is the power adjustable ramp, allowing you to change the ramp angle from 0-30 degrees with 20-22" of stride length to play with.


Adjustability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Quietness:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • The foot pedals feature 2" inward slopes, helping to reduce ankle pressure 
  • Large 6.5" LCD console offers a backlit display for exercising in a darker environment 
  • The bottle holder is a nice addition and helps to keep you hydrated when working out 

Could be better:

  • The frame is one of the heaviest elliptical options at 189 lbs

3. Niceday Elliptical Machine

Niceday Elliptical Machine
  • Type/Model: Elliptical Cross trainer
  • Item Weight: 106 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 400 lbs
  • Product Dimensions: 48" D x 25" W x 62" H
  • Display: Time, Speed, Distance, Calories, Heart rate
  • Workout Programs: 16 Magnetic Resistance levels
  • Additional Features: Transport wheels, 90% Pre-assembled, Base Stabilizers

With over 20 years of experience, Niceday focuses on manufacturing mid to high-end health and fitness equipment. They want to provide the ultimate workout experience by producing quality products for everyone to enjoy. 

Classed as a light commercial-grade elliptical, the Niceday CT11 Elliptical operates using a 16 lb magnetic flywheel. This produces less than 20 decibels of noise during operation and also means there is no need for any electricity source, allowing you to place the elliptical anywhere you want.

Made of extra-thick commercial grade steel pipe, the CT11 weighs 106 lbs and can handle up to 400 lbs of user capacity. The base stabilizers provide extra stability for performing more intense workouts and further reduce the possibility of noise via frame movement.

Measuring 48" D x 25" W x 62" H, the Niceday elliptical can fit into most apartment spaces with little trouble. It offers 16 magnetic resistance levels, with the resistance adjusted via the black tension knob at the front of the frame.

The 15" L x 5" W foot pedals operate using a 15.5" stride length, providing a comfortable and ergonomic stride pattern.

If you want to track your workout, the LCD monitor displays time, speed, distance, calories burned, and heart rate via the pulse sensors built into the fixed handles.

As the CT11 comes 90% pre-built, you’re able to assemble it within minutes once it arrives. It’s finished in black and orange, with the Niceday logo on the side.

55.5 EXPERT SCORE

Elliptical operates using a 16 lb magnetic flywheel. This produces less than 20 decibels of noise during operation and also means there is no need for any electricity source, allowing you to place the elliptical anywhere you want.


Adjustability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Quietness:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • No need for an electrical source, allowing you to place the elliptical wherever you need 
  • The base stabilizers help keep the frame secure during operation and reduce the amount of noise 
  • It comes 90% pre-built, allowing you to assemble it and go within minutes 

Could be better:

  • No transport wheels included makes it harder to move around

4. NordicTrack Space Saver Elliptical Machine

NordicTrack Space Saver Elliptical Machine
  • Type/Model: Space Saver Elliptical
  • Item Weight: 180 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 325 lbs
  • Product Dimensions: 78.7" L x 31.9" W x 66.4" H
  • Display: Calories, Time, Distance, Heart rate, Speed
  • Workout Programs: 24 Resistance levels, Live Interactive Workouts
  • Additional Features: Smart HD Touchscreen, Bluetooth Chest strap, Auto Breeze Workout Fan

NordicTrack aims to produce premium home training equipment using top personal trainers to help create the perfect products. They believe that you deserve the best equipment to help you along your fitness journey. 

The SE9I space saver elliptical from NordicTrack combines high-quality construction with some nice design features to give you an excellent choice of quiet elliptical for your apartment space.

It features an inertia-enhanced flywheel using SMT silent magnetic resistance to give you a virtually noise-free workout. It has a huge range of resistance levels to choose from, with 24 options built into the digital monitor.

If you want to add an extra workout challenge or start cooling down, simply press the user-friendly buttons on the pad in front. It features a 7" smart HD touchscreen with 30 workout apps, an integrated cooling fan, and quick touch handle controls.

It’s compatible with the iFit Bluetooth app and comes with an iFit smart chest strap. The screen also monitors time, distance, calories, speed, and heart rate.

One of the biggest selling points of the NordicTrack elliptical is the clever space-saving design. The handlebars and monitor section uses a hinge system, allowing you to fold the machine inwards and store it safely when not in use. This is a feature not seen on many ellipticals and can come in handy if you have a smaller home space.

The SE9I’s steel frame weighs 180 lbs and has a max user capacity of 325 lbs, plenty for most exercisers. It measures 78.7" L x 31.9" W x 66.4" H when in a normal upright position.

55.5 EXPERT SCORE

Elliptical operates using a 16 lb magnetic flywheel. This produces less than 20 decibels of noise during operation and also means there is no need for any electricity source, allowing you to place the elliptical anywhere you want.


Adjustability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Quietness:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • The space-saving design allows you to fold the elliptical in on itself using a clever hinge design system 
  • The iFit smart chest strap is included, helping you to more accurately measure your heart rate 
  • 7" smart HD touchscreen features 30 workout apps and quick touch controls 

Could be better:

  • When upright, the bigger elliptical length won’t fit into some workout spaces

5. Schwinn Fitness 430 Elliptical Machine

Schwinn Fitness 430 Elliptical Machine
  • Type/Model: Elliptical Trainer
  • Item Weight: 165 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 300 lbs
  • Product Dimensions: 70" L x 28" W x 71" H
  • Display: Time, Distance, Calories
  • Workout Programs: 20 Resistance levels, 22 Workout programs
  • Additional Features: Goal track technology, Cushioned footplates

Schwinn Fitness offers a great range of affordable and innovative cardio machines that are designed using premium technology and years of experience. 

The Schwinn Fitness 430 elliptical machine features a simple and stylist design that gives you a smooth and comfortable workout experience.

The high speed, high inertia drive system offers a quiet workout, with a 20" stride length that uses precision path foot motion technology to simulate natural running.

The steel frame weighs 165 lbs and supports up to 300 lbs of user weight. The large cushioned foot plates help to reduce the impact when working out and further reduces the noise generated.

Schwinn Fitness 430 Elliptical Machine instagram
Photo by @brehercar

The 430 elliptical machine has two sets of handlebars, one moveable pair and a smaller fixed pair with built-in heart rate sensors. Schwinn Fitness have given you 20 resistance levels to choose from that are controlled by the centrally located LCD monitor.

The goal track technology on the monitor allows you to set individual workout goals based on time, speed, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. This is a great feature for goal-driven athletes who need extra motivation or more workout structure.

55 EXPERT SCORE

The 430 elliptical machine has two sets of handlebars, one moveable pair and a smaller fixed pair with built-in heart rate sensors. Schwinn Fitness have given you 20 resistance levels to choose from that are controlled by the centrally located LCD monitor.


Adjustability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Quietness:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • Goal track technology allows you to customize your workout experience using goals based on the feedback given
  • The steel frame features 4 large cushioned foot plates to help reduce the noise impact 
  • The precision path foot technology helps to simulate a natural running motion

Could be better:

  • The console readout can be slightly inaccurate and slow to adjust during the workout based on reviews

6. FUNMILY Elliptical Machine

FUNMILY Elliptical Machine
  • Type/Model: Elliptical Machine
  • Item Weight: 77 lbs
  • Weight Limit: 390 lbs
  • Product Dimensions: 47" L x 24" W x 60" H
  • Display: Heart rate, Speed, Distance, Time
  • Workout Programs: 10 Resistance levels, Additional Features:, Phone holder, Mobile app

FUNMILY manufactures a wide range of health and fitness equipment using a client-centered approach to production. They aim to help you keep your body and mind healthy and in shape.

The EM530_B Elliptical from FUNMILY is powered by an 18 lb heavy-duty flywheel using a high-end gear ratio. This combination allows you to stride quietly forwards and use a reverse motion if you want some added exercise variety.

The EM530 cross trainer offers 10 levels of magnetic resistance, with the tension knob conveniently located next to the flywheel at the front of the frame.

The alloy steel frame weighs just 77 lbs and supports up to 390 lbs of user weight. Measuring 47" L x 24" W x 60" H, it’s one of the smaller elliptical frame options I’ve reviewed today, making it a great option if you're limited on space.

The extra large 15" L x 5.6" W foot pedals operate using a 15" stride length, ensuring users of different heights get a comfortable and effective workout experience. The foot pedals are wrapped in textured plastic and feature anti-slip surfaces to ensure a stable workout.

The ergonomic dual handle bars give you the workout options to focus on your whole body or your upper or lower body at different stages of the workout. If you want to measure your heart rate, use the sensors built into the fixed handlebars.

The LCD monitors time, speed, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. Under the monitor is a handy tablet holder, with the free Qiber app allowing you to compete against others in real time.

The EM530 also has 4 adjustable rubber stabilizers and transport wheels to allow easy portability. It comes in black, orange, and white with the FUNMILY branding on the side.

55 EXPERT SCORE

The ergonomic dual handle bars give you the workout options to focus on your whole body or your upper or lower body at different stages of the workout.


Adjustability:0
Monitor Functionality:0
Portability:0
Quietness:0
Multifunctionality:0
Value for Money:0

Positives:

  • The included Qiber app allows you to compete against other users in real time, providing a more interactive workout experience 
  • The elliptical is compatible with a reverse stride motion, providing more workout options
  • The adjustable rubber stabilizers are suitable for hardwood and carpet floors

Could be better:

  • The LCD console is quite basic compared to some comparable options

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What are the Benefits of Using Quiet Ellipticals for Apartments? 

Here are some of the benefits of using silent elliptical machines:

✅ Noiseless

Whilst the name makes this point obvious, quiet ellipticals give out little to no noise when using them. Even though this isn't usually much of an issue in commercial gym settings or outdoor gym spaces, this can become a big problem if you're in an apartment that's close to your neighbors.

With less noise, you're able to focus more on your workout or concentrate more on your favorite gym program or TV show without listening to the elliptical noise alongside it. You can also have the peace of mind that the people around you or people in the house don't get disturbed by the elliptical sound.

Female Elliptical Machine Workout in Gym

✅ Convenience

Quiet ellipticals provide a convenient exercise option that’s only a few steps away. With it being in your apartment, it doesn’t matter what the weather is like, if transport is running, or if you have limited time. Having an elliptical in your apartment allows you to fit exercise around your schedule with little time commitment.

When using a quiet elliptical, the small amount of noise produced by the drive mechanism allows you to exercise at any time of the day without worrying about people around you.

✅ Durability

Quiet ellipticals are durable pieces of workout equipment. The quiet drive mechanisms used reduces the chances of the machine components rubbing against each other, therefore increasing the elliptical life span.

A well-made quiet elliptical should last for your whole workout career with no need for much maintenance or parts replacement.

✅ Joint Friendly 

With the smoother and quieter drive mechanism combined with the low impact exercise motion, quiet ellipticals provide an excellent joint-friendly workout option.

If you’re recovering from injury, suffer from joint issues or just prefer a low-impact option, quiet ellipticals are a great idea.

✅ Versatile 

With the combination of fixed and movable handles, ellipticals can be used to work your full body or for an upper/ lower focused workout, depending on how you use it.

For a full-body workout, operate the elliptical normally. To work your upper body more, let your arms do the work using the movable handles. If you want to isolate your lower body, grab the fixed handles and power your legs.

Female Workout Using Elliptical Machine

What to Look for in Quiet Ellipticals for Apartments?

Here’s what to look for when purchasing a quiet elliptical machine for apartment spaces:

1. Adjustability

Ellipticals offer a range of adjustable options depending on the brand and design. With these, you can slightly change your movements, focusing on your feelings,preferences and workout goals.

Adjustment options may include the height of the movable handles and the height and position of the seat if your elliptical includes one. If you’re a smaller or taller athlete, having adjustable features on your elliptical can be important to ensure a comfortable workout experience.

2. Monitor Functionality

Perhaps one of the best and most changeable features of ellipticals is the functions offered by the built-in monitors.

Monitors can offer tangible feedback during your workout which includes distance covered, time elapsed, speed, calories burned, and heart rate.

Some may have a built-in Bluetooth feature, allowing you to connect your phone to watch your favorite workout or program whilst exercising. Some brands also offer built-in app compatibility, designed to give you a range of interactive workouts to follow along to.

Most ellipticals offer the basic functions needed, meaning monitor functionality is mainly down to your personal needs and goals.

Tips From the Champ

When choosing an elliptical machine, prioritize adjustable options such as movable handle height and seat position to tailor your workout experience based on your preferences and body size. Additionally, consider the monitor functionality, as features like Bluetooth connectivity and interactive workout apps can enhance motivation and cater to specific fitness goals.

Oleksiy Torokhtiy
Oleksiy Torokhtiy

Olympic Weightlifting Champion

3. Portability

Portability refers to how easy the elliptical is to move around. Whilst ellipticals may be heavier than some gym equipment, it doesn’t mean that they can’t be portable.

If you need to move your quiet elliptical around, check that it has transport wheels included in the frame. If you’re looking for extra convenience, some ellipticals even have carry handles near the seat that allow you to move the elliptical without bending at all. 

4. Multifunctionality 

Multifunctionality refers to the different functions the elliptical can successfully perform. Ellipticals are designed to offer a range of versatile uses, but some may have design features that offer extra.

If you’re looking for a cardio-based full-body workout, a normal elliptical should be fine. However, if you're wanting to work your upper body or lower body separately and build muscle at the same time, an elliptical with fixed and movable handles is your best option.

Athlete Training on Elliptical Machine

5. Price/Quality 

When it comes to price, ellipticals are mid-range pieces of gym equipment, with some offering better value for money or premium features at a higher price point.

When deciding which elliptical you want to buy, compare the quality and features offered such as the LCD, frame durability, and portable features.

Make sure you're happy with what you’re getting for the price you're paying, and check the manufacturer's guarantee offered.

FAQ

Is an Elliptical Quieter Than a Treadmill?

Compared to treadmills, ellipticals make less noise. This is mainly due to the drive mechanism and the amount of friction produced when operating them. 

How Do I Reduce the Noise on My Elliptical?

To help reduce the noise when operating your elliptical, use it on a carpeted surface. If this isn’t possible, place a mat underneath and check that all the parts are tightened correctly. 

Conclusion

Quiet ellipticals provide excellent at-home workout options for your smaller apartment spaces. The quieter drive mechanism makes them convenient to use without worrying about your neighbor. It also increases their durability and gives you a better workout experience.

The Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical Cross Trainer is my top pick for a quiet elliptical. It’s a well-designed small elliptical for apartment spaces, featuring a lightweight design and handy added features such as a device holder and transport wheels. It operates using a contactless, belt-drive mechanism, making it a great no-noise exercise option.

Do you live in an apartment and want to add to your home gym collection? Let me know in the comments down below!

Also read:

References:

  1. "Treadmill" Jrank https://reference.jrank.org/fitness/Treadmill.html
  2. "Understanding calories" NHS 17 April 2023 https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-weight/managing-your-weight/understanding-calories
  3. Sara Lindberg "10 Benefits of an Elliptical Machine Workout" Healthline Mar 28, 2023 https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/elliptical-benefits
  4. "Heart Rate Zones | the Basics" Polar. Published April 19, 2016 https://www.polar.com/blog/running-heart-rate-zones-basics/
  5. "Heart Rate Monitor" Cleveland Clinic May 07, 2022 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/23429-heart-rate-monitor
  6. Al Johnson "Can You Have an Elliptical in an Apartment?" Bodypusher. Published: October 30, 2020 https://www.bodypusher.com/can-you-have-an-elliptical-in-an-apartment/
  7. "WHY IS MY ELLIPTICAL MAKING NOISE?" Horizon Fitness
    https://support.horizonfitness.com/hc/en-us/articles/4508623916045-Why-is-My-Elliptical-Making-Noise

Why Trust Us?

With over 20 years in Olympic Weightlifting, our team does its best to provide the audience with ultimate support and meet the needs and requirements of advanced athletes and professional lifters, as well as people who strive to open new opportunities and develop their physical capabilities with us.

All products we select are primarily approved and tested by the Olympic Weightlifting Champion Oleksii Torokhtiy. Under his guidance, we provide honest and reasonable assessments of the products we review by checking their characteristics, packaging, design, comfort and durability features, and general product rating. We select products from only high-quality and trusted sports brands, thus vouching for their quality.

The product testing process is described in more detail here

Ihor Shymechko

Author: Ihor Shymechko
Pro Olympic Weightlifter, Coach

Experience: 26 years
Best Results: Snatch – 208 kg,
C&J – 240 kg

Ihor has been a professional weightlifter since 1996, boasting over two decades of competition experience. His notable achievements include clinching the European Championship in 2009 and securing a silver medal in the 105kg division at the Senior World Championships in 2011. Ihor represented his country in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Summer Olympics. After retiring from competitive weightlifting, he transitioned to coaching, leveraging his vast experience to guide athletes who now compete on both national and international stages.

View author’s page

Oleksiy Torokhtiy

Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy
Olympic Weightlifting Champion

Experience: 21 years
Best ResultsSnatch – 200 kg,
C&J – 240 kg

Oleksiy Torokhtiy is a professional athlete boasting 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. With multiple European and World titles under his belt, he has showcased his prowess in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008 and London 2012). Upon concluding his illustrious career, Oleksiy dedicated himself to coaching. By 2022, he had conducted over 200 weightlifting seminars worldwide. He is the visionary behind an international sportswear and accessories brand known for its motto, “Warm Body Cold Mind.” Additionally, he is an esteemed author and the creator of a series of training programs and eBooks.

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