It’s quite sad that most people cannot be able to make it to the gym due to a tight schedule or the fact that they’re on a budget. Well, without breaking the bank, you can get the best elliptical under 500 and get equally as good a workout session at any time of the day.
At an affordable price that’s just under 500 bucks, these bad boys will get you a different workout routine each day and the best part about them is that they’re built to last.
So, how about you and I rekindle that spark and get you back on track in hitting your fitness goals. Stick with me and you won’t regret it- here’s a review backed up with an expert guide on what getting the best is all about.
Short list of Best Elliptical under 500 USD
- 1Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine (Editor's Choice )
- 2Body-Solid Best Fitness Crosstrainer Elliptical Machine (2nd Choice)
- 3Exerpeutic 1318 5000 Magnetic Elliptical Trainer (My 3rd Choice But Quality is truly good )
- 4ncient Elliptical Machine Eliptical Trainer (Budget Picks )
To make this review friendly enough for you, we’ve saved you the hassle of having to read all the way to the end. Take a look at the side by side comparison of the best of the best among our top-rated elliptical trainers.
Picture | Name | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
  | Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine (Editor's Choice ) | |
  | ||
  | Exerpeutic 1318 5000 Magnetic Elliptical Trainer (My 3rd Choice But Quality is truly good ) | |
  | ncient Elliptical Machine Eliptical Trainer Exercise Machine (Budget Picks ) |
Tips on using your elliptical machine
Even though you may have the very, you may not be necessarily getting the best out of it. Here’s how to ensure this.
On to the main agenda, it’s time we find out what it really take s to have the best elliptical trainer for home use. By sampling out the best of the best from the most reputed brands in 2019, we were able to put together a detailed review of the top 13 each of which will give you a kick for your buck.
But before you go any further…
best elliptical under 500
Starting off our reviews is the Exerpeutic 1318 5000 which, I have to say is worth every penny since the build quality is one of the best, the performance outstanding and with the high weight capacity, most people would, as a matter of fact, find this a good enough elliptical trainer. Here's what it packs under the hood.
Comes with 12 workout programs
The very first thing anyone would look into before getting a home elliptical bike is how much they can be able to get from it. Well, as it turns out, there’s no better way to do this than by taking a look at the workout programs available to you.
Inc the case of the Exerpeutic 1318 5000, there are 12 of these included right out of the box alongside which are 7 other different training modes. These altogether ensure that both first-time users and advanced athletes get optimal results from their workouts since you'll seldom repeat your daily workouts.
Features a high-quality construction
As it turns out, the workout programs included wouldn’t be any good whatsoever if the elliptical trainer were not able to support your weight, right? Well, I have to say that this is actually a heavy-duty elliptical trainer since it has got a 270 lb. weight capacity which makes it virtually usable by most adults.
It also features both a strong and durable 3-piece cranking system that ensures high performance and continuous momentum. It's also worth pointing out that this home elliptical bike features a magnetic resistance that is silent and maintenance-free.
That’s not all…
Considering you’ll be using this elliptical for home cardio workouts, there are transportation wheels included that make it quite easy to relocate it.
Includes 24 tension levels and 18-inch stride lengths
With the computer console included, one can be able to switch between either of the included resistance levels to vary your workouts. Owing to the fact that it comes with an 18-inch stride length, you should be able to optimize each workout.
Also…
The pedals included have got a larger stride that ensure your foot is always in position hence preventing foot slippage as you exercise.
Build with dual action handlebars
For a full body workout, there are dual handlebars included. You use the mobile handlebars for your arm workouts and hit your legs exclusively by holding on to the stationary handlebars. Something else you shod know about the handlebars is that the stationary ones feature a pulse sensor via which your heart rate is monitored to stay within a targeted heart rate zone.
Pros
Cons
02. Best Fitness Crosstrainer Elliptical Machine (BFCT1) (2nd Best Elliptical Under 500)
Form the easy to use the display to the compact design, the BFCT1 stands out as one of the few well-rounded elliptical trainers worth every penny.in addition to being compact, it’s also functional enough and usable by most as well. here’s a closer look.
Features 8 levels of magnetic resistance
Being a must-have feature for anyone who is serious about stepping up their cardiovascular health, the 8 levels of resistance should get you the most intense workouts. This way, you’ll definitely be able to burn excess calories to achieve your fitness goals.
Something else worth mentioning about the resistance levels is that this elliptical bike uses a magnetic resistance which is both functional and most importantly less demanding of maintenance.
Boasts a compact and portable design
On to the build quality, I’ve got to say that this is one of the best portable home elliptical trainers you can get your hands on.
It measures only 45 x 26 x 66 inches for the length, width, and height respectively and weighs only 97 pounds. Both of these features not only make it easy to have it almost anywhere you want it but also easy to transport when need be since it comes with integrated wheels which ensure this is possible.
Includes a multi-functional LCD display
Owing to the fact that this is a home elliptical trainer, the last thing you want to deal with is a complicated display. As such, it uses a multi-functional simple LED display that is user-friendly and has got 5 functions (time, distance, speed, calories and heart rate) all of which are aimed at ensuring that you get to see the results of every workout you take part in.
Includes synchronized arms
Speaking of results, there’s no better way to get a bang for your buck when purchasing a home elliptical trainer than choosing one with a full body workout. This being so, the BFCT1 makes use of synchronized arms which engage your upper body into the exercise routine with the legs. At the end of the day, you get to have both a smooth and calorie-burning cardio workout that hits the whole of your body.
Pros
Cons
03. Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine (Best Elliptical Under 500)
As far as fitness machines are concerned, Schwinn boasts to be one of the best brands. Now, is this reflected in the Schwinn A40? Well, it features an easy to use a fully loaded console, can monitor your vitals and also does come with workout programs included. Here's a closer look at it.
Enjoy the 8-level magnetic resistance and 17.5-inch stride length
Being one of the features that define how good an elliptical bike really is, this bad boy will be giving you an amazing 8-level resistance. Though this is not really the highest, it should be good enough for first-time users since you can be able to mix up your workouts to make them more intense.
Still, on the resistance, it functions using the magnetic wheel which is far less demanding of maintenance and it's more reliable.
To add on to the intensity of your workouts, the Schwinn A40 does have a 17.5” stride length with precision foot motion technology
Comes with 7 workout programs
Just in case you're just getting started with using home elliptical bike machines, this one will set you off just right as it's got 7 workout programs. These, as a matter of fact, ensure that you get a versatile workout since by cycling through all of them, it will be difficult to repeat the same workouts
Includes both fixed and moving handlebars
Other than the 7 workout programs included, something else you’ll definitely appreciate is the versatility offered by this bad boy. It does have dual handlebars each of which, due to their ergonomic placement will come in handy quite well
First, there are the movable ones which engage your whole body and if you would like to hit your legs only for more intense workouts, you’ll simply have to place your hands on the stationary ones.
More on the stationary handlebars, they’ve got heart rate monitors that are ergonomically placed and as such, it will be much easier for you to keep track of all your vitals
Has got a functional large LCD display
Using it should prove quite simple and straightforward. Included right above the stationary handlebars is an LED display with a fully loaded console. From this, you can be able to track speed, time, RPMs, distance, calories, heart rate and results
Pros
Cons
At the end of the day, it all comes down to getting an elliptical trainer that is indeed well-rounded, right? In the case of the GOELLIPTICAL V-200, you’ll basically be getting it all from the display to a compact yet reliable design. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll be looking forward to.
Allows for 24 resistance level adjustments
For a budget elliptical machine, this bad boy does have some of the best features you could possibly get on even more expensive elliptical trainers.
Starting off with what really determines how good your workouts will be, the 24 levels of resistance included on this one makes it equally as good an elliptical cardio trainer for beginners as it is for advanced athletes. Basically, all you have to do is switch between any of the resistance levels with the push of a button and you’ll be good to go.
Considering it uses a magnetic resistance system, you get to have a smooth elliptical movement and in addition to this, the wheel motion will be quiet
Has got a 17” stride length
Yet another feature that makes this worthy of our reviews of the best ellipticals under 500 is the large stride length.
This, by intensifying your workouts and working hand in hand with the cushioned handlebars should be enough to ensure you get both a comfortable and no impact workout for a maximum calorie burn.
Yet It’s got a musical system built into it
So as to get you through your workout without being bored, there is an included music system from which you can listen to your favorite tracks from your MP3 player or iPod. It's also worth mentioning that it also does come with a water bottle holder to keep you hydrated throughout your workouts.
Constructed with a high-quality tubular steel frame
On to the build quality, I’m quite positive that you are going to appreciate the high quality welded tubular steel frame from which you will be enjoying both a high level of stability and durability. It should, as a matter of fact, be good enough for persons as heavy as 120 lbs.
What’s more interesting about this bad boy is that it comes in a really compact design which allows you to easily have it anywhere in your home
Features a large LCD display
On to the display, there is a large and backlit LCD measuring 5.5" from which time, speed, distance, calories, and heart rate. What’s even more interesting is that it’s got a backlit added to it which makes it usable even in low light situations
Pros
Cons
Being one of the few budget elliptical machines for home use that will prove useful for both the entry-level users as well as experts, the Gold 2000XLST from Exerpeutic definitely has it all from the workout programs to smartphone compatibility. Here is what you should look forward to.
Has got a Bluetooth Smart technology
Starting off with a feature that you will seldom find in other elliptical trainers in its class, the Bluetooth smart technology is compatible with both the iOS and Android mobile platform devices. This being so, you should be able to track your workout results with the included MyFitQuest4 app which is free.
There is also a built-in tablet/smartphone holder on the elliptical on which you could place your mobile device.
Comes with 21 workout programs
As for how much you will be getting from this home elliptical bike, there are 21 workout programs included alongside which are 3 computer workout goal settings which include distance, time and calories burned. Considering the trainer is able to support persons that weigh up to a maximum of 275 lbs. most people will definitely be able to enjoy the workout programs.
Feature s high-quality 3-piece crank system
On to the build quality and design, one of the features that will be appreciated by most is the 3-piece crank system. This high torque cranking system does allow the elliptical cross trainer to provide a smooth and consistent pedaling motion and in addition to this, you get to have long-lasting durability from the same.
As for the pedals, these are unlike any other considering they feature a ribbed design that keeps your foot from slipping as you exercise. In addition to this, they are larger and as such which adds on to the security of your feet and more so ensure that you find the trainer comfortable enough to use. Regarding the stride length, it’s 13” and should give you quite a fair challenge in your effort to burn calories.
That’s not all…
With the precision balanced flywheel and the V-belt drive, you sure are going to get a smooth and quiet operation from this elliptical trainer. As this is to be used at home, you’ll really appreciate this feature since it won’t interfere with watching TV or listening to music.
Includes a backlit LCD computer
On to the display, it includes a highly visual LCD computer display on which you can be able to keep track of the time, speed, distance, calories burned, pulse, odometer, RPMs and the watts. Being backlit, you can also count on it to have as good a performance in low light as it does in proper lighting.
Has got 16 levels of resistance
Last but not least, with as much as 16 levels of silent and maintenance free magnetic resistance, it should be easy for you to make your workouts more challenging for maximum calorie burn.
Pros
Cons
Designed to work best for the endurance trainers, this elliptical bike from sunny health and fitness has it all from the build quality and design to the display. Despite the compact size which makes it suitable for home use, it boasts quite a large carrying capacity among other things. Here’s what you should be looking forward to.
Offers 8 levels of magnetic resistance
First things first, with the resistance being one of the most importantfeatures to pay attention to if you want the best elliptical under 500, this one does include a resistance knob. With this, it’s possible to alter the resistance with just a simple adjustment on either of the 8 different level settings.
This makes it possible to engage the SF-E3804 in lots of different ways which then allows you to create a whole new routine of workouts for the desired results.
Includes full motion handlebars
Other than just having 8 levels of magnetic resistance, yet another notable feature on this home elliptical bike is the full motion handlebars.
These basically enable the engagement of both your arms and legs hence giving you a full body workout such that you get to hit the pecs, biceps, and traps all at the same time.
Comes with a user-friendly performance monitor
Whereas the mobile handlebars allow you to have a full body workout the stationary ones allow you to monitor your vitals. With the endurance digital monitor zone, it should be simple enough to know your heart rate within the first 60 seconds.
You can also be able to track your body fat percentage which is critical to your cardiovascular health and fitness journey. At the endurance zone digital monitor, there are also four highlighted goal specific target heart rate zones, the heart rate BPM and the age range.
Has got a 13.5” stride length
In order for you to be able to propel your legs backward and forwards with utmost ease and stability, it's been designed with a stride length that is only 13.5" long. With this working hand in hand with the different resistance levels, you'll be able to engage your calves, thighs, and glutes most effectively for a more engaging workout
Features a compact and high-quality design
On to the build quality, the SF-E3804 features a heavy-duty frame that is able to support a maximum weight of 287 lbs. and as for the dimensions, it measures 54 x 24 x 63 inches for the length, width, and height respectively.
For the pedals, you’ll be stepping on oversized and textured non-slip pedals which ensure that both balance and safety are not compromised. Regardless of how vigorous your workouts are, this heavy-duty elliptical trainer is guaranteed to get you through it all.
Pros
Cons
From the magnetic resistance to the advanced digital monitor, Simpfree has definitely nailed it with this elliptical trainer. It also boasts a heavy-duty construction which is backed up by an amazing load quality and plenty more. here’s every reason as to why you should spend your money on it.
Built with an 8-level magnetic resistance
Like just any elliptical trainer under 500, this one too does pay attention to the resistance levels. You can easily switch between either of the 8 levels of resistance and upon doing so step your workouts up a notch for a greater challenge.
Owing to the fact that the trainer works with magnetic resistance, you should expect both a smooth, silent and maintenance-free operation.
In addition to having a functional magnetic resistance, yet another thing that’s worth pointing out is that it does feature a 13-inch stride length that further intensifies your workouts and most importantly, it’s just about the right length to ensure that you have a stable footing.
Provides both a smooth and quiet operation
Something else you’ll definitely be appreciating on this budget elliptical machine is how silent it is. Owing to the fact that you’ll be using it at home, it has been designed with a 12 lb. precision balanced flywheel and a V-belt drive.
With both of these working hand in hand, the operation will not only be silent but this bad boy will prove quite handy for both advanced athletes and entry-level users. It is safe on the knees, incorporates a full body workout and altogether gets you all the benefits from running.
Features large, non-slip pedals
It would not be any good if your footing were compromised, would it? In order to give you the most comfortable cardio workouts, this elliptical trainer features pedals that have a high-quality build and have got ridges to ensure that you don’t slip off it.
The pedals are also strong enough to support as heavy a load as 330 lbs. which makes this elliptical eligible for use by most
Has got a user-friendly LCD display
Included on this home elliptical bike is an LCD digital monitor on which you should be able to see the distance covered, the number of calories burned, the time, speed and there is also the target zone heart rate monitoring.
Easy portability
Being a home elliptical trainer, the last thing you want is to have something that’ll be a headache to move around. As such, to give you the easiest time, it has got wheels at the front of the unit and since the cross-trainer weighs only 35.8 kgs, it should be quite easy for you to move it around.
Pros
Cons
From a safe riding experience to the pulse pads that monitor your vitals, there’s no way this elliptical trainer could let you down as it packs quite a lot of features for an elliptical trainer in its class. Here’s every reason you should try it out.
It’s portable and easy to move
One of the best features to pay close attention to on any home elliptical cross trainer is the portability. In the case of this one, there are wheels at the front of the unit by which the bike can be moved from room to room with ease.
Since it weighs only 35.8 kgs, this shouldn’t be difficult at all.
Features both a quiet and smooth operation
In addition to being easy to move around, yet another feature that makes it the perfect elliptical cross trainer for home use is the smooth operation it’s got.It includes a precision balanced flywheel and a V-belt drive to ensure this.
That’s not all…
Besides just having a silent operation, you can count on this elliptical trainer to give you a full body workout simply at the convenience of your home. Speaking of working out, let’s find out next how much you can actually be able to do with this bad boy.
Comes with a digital monitor display and heart pulse
It’s not really a good enough elliptical workout trainer if you can’t be able to do as much as you want to while on it, is it? Well, considering the whole point of getting this bike is for your cardio elliptical exercises, you’ll want to keep track of your health.
In order to do this, there is an LCD digital monitor which shows your time, speed, distance, calories burned and the pulse rate. For the heart rate, you will have to hold on to the stationary handlebars.
Includes an 8-level magnetic resistance
Regarding how much you can be able to do while on this trainer, it does have an 8-level magnetic resistance. What makes this interesting is that you’ll only have to use the tension knob so as to adjust it to the desired intensity level. This, added on to the 13” stride length, allows you to optimize each workout.
Has got non-slip pedals
As much as it’s got a strong frame that can be able to support persons that weigh as much as 150 lb., the pedals add on to the frame’s strength since they are large in size and provide a no-impact and smooth flowing workout for increased stability and comfort.
Pros
Cons
With ANCHEER boasting to be one of the best elliptical brands, this one does have a lot to offer despite going easy on you as far as the budget is concerned. From the smooth performance and magnetic resistance to the heavy-duty design, it does have everything you need. Here’s a closer look
It includes a digital monitor & pulse grip
When it comes to the elliptical cardio workouts, keeping track of your health and workouts is basically the ultimate goal. Well, with the inclusion of the pulse rate grips that are included on the stationary handlebars, this trainer will effectively be able to monitor your heart rate at any time which can be seen the electronic display pulse mode.
Besides just the heart rate, you should also be able to see the distance covered, the calories burned, the time and speed
Has got oversized and non-slip pedals
In addition to monitoring your vitals, yet another feature that makes this the best elliptical under $500 is the inclusion of thehigh-quality pedals.
These basically add on to the strength of the frame since they can be able to support persons that weigh up to 330 lbs. in addition to having a non-slip texture, they are also big in size as compared to what you’ll be getting in most home elliptical bikes and as such, you get to have a comfortable and stable footing.
Provides 8 levels of magnetic resistance
Moving on to how much one can actually be able to get from this trainer, the 8-level magnetic resistance should pretty much give you enough of a challenge.
In order to switch between the different resistance levels, all you got to do is adjust the intensity of your exercises with the convenient tension knob.Combined with the 13-inch stride length that’s going to provide a no impact and smooth flowing workout for a full body workout, you sure are going to do plenty with this elliptical trainer
Built with transportation wheels
Since you will be using this at home, the last thing you want is for it to be a pain when being moved from one spot to another. Well, in order to make it the best elliptical for a home gym, there are two transportation wheels built into it which allow for easy setup. Since it only weighs 35.8 kgs, it shouldn't be any trouble to move it around, should it?
Also…
It does have a 12 lb. built in effective flywheel which is inertia-enhanced and designed to deliver a more natural ride and at the same time ensure that your workout is also quiet and smooth.
Pros
Cons
It comes in a compact size, provides a full body workout, has a pulse rate monitoring and plenty more. in a nutshell, the E006 is basically an all-around home elliptical cross-trainer that's guaranteed to get you in shape. Here's what you should be looking forward to.
Comes in both a quiet and mobile design
Being two of the most important things one take into account when getting a home elliptical trainer, this bad boy features a belt driven flywheel which ensures that you get the smoothest and quietest workout sessions. What's even more interesting is that it is maintenance free, a feature that will be greatly appreciated on any home elliptical trainer.
With the inclusion of the transportation wheels at the bottom of this trainer, you'll find it quite easy to move around and considering its only 80.5 lbs. heavy, this shouldn't be difficult at all. It also features a small and compact design which saves on space hence making it a perfect choice for any room.
Has got oversized and textured foot plates
More on the design, the foot plates are non-slip and designed to accommodate all foot sizes. This way, you’re guaranteed to have a sure footing at all times even in the most vigorous workout sessions.
Offers an 8-level magnetic resistance
So as to optimize every workout session, it does have an amazing 8-level magnetic resistance. You can also switch between either of the resistance levels so as to avoid repeating exercises.
Other than just keeping you in shape, the magnetic resistance will be highly appreciated due to the smooth, quiet and low maintenance operation which makes it the perfection elliptical bike for home use.
Includes pulse rate sensors
Designed to give you a full body workout, it doeshave both the stationary and the mobile handlebars. Whereas the latter comes in handy when you want to exercise your hands, the stationary handlebars help in monitoring your heart rate.
This way, it’s going to be quite easy for you to maintain a steady heart rate which ensures that you get to hit your workout targets. This can easily be monitored on the LCD monitor display. Well, besides just the heart rate monitoring, the LCD display will display time, speed, distance, the calories burned as well as the pulse rate and scan.
Pros
Cons
11. Fast 88 Portable Elliptical Machine Fitness Workout Cardio Training Machine
We’re way past halfway on our reviews and it’s been a good one so far. Other than being a budget cardio workout machine, there’s quite a lot to look forward to with this bad boy ranging from the adjustable resistance to tracking your workouts. Here’s a closer look.
Includes a digital monitor and pulse rate grips
Since the main purpose of getting an elliptical cross trainer is to be able to monitor all your workouts, this one will be giving you a bang for your buck on this.
With the included LCD digital monitor, you can conveniently be able to plan and record your fitness statistics. The display shows the distance covered, the heart rate, the time, speed and target zone heart rate monitoring.
Delivers a smooth and quiet operation
On to the performance, you'll definitely be enjoying the quiet and smooth drive that comes with this bad boy. Designed to be used at home, the last thing you want is to disturb the other family members.
Something else that qualifies this as the perfect elliptical for a home gym is the compact design. This basically makes it ideal for use in confined spaces and there's no way whatsoever that you can miss out on your workouts.
At the base, there are transportation wheels that makes it quite easy to move from one room to another owing to the fact that this bad boy is only 35.8 kg heavy.
Features a sturdy construction
On to the build quality, you will, first of all, appreciate the compact size measuring 40.9 x 18.9 x 63 inches which are perfect for small spaces at home.
Besides the fact that it’s compact, it also boasts a heavy-duty design. The material used in the construction is a durable and high-quality metal which is capable of supporting persons that weigh as much as 250 lbs. It’s also worth pointing out that this elliptical bike comes with non-slip pedals that ensure your stability is at its best.
Has got a tension knob for resistance adjustment
Located on this trainer is a knob that is exclusively meant for tension adjustment. Considering this is a magnetic adjustment, it’s silent and requires less maintenance. Owing to the fact that you’ll be getting as much as 8 levels of resistance, you can blend up your exercises with different resistance levels to optimize your workouts.
Pros
Cons
Coming up second last on our elliptical bike reviews is yet another amazing one from EFITMENT. From the portable and compact design to the reliable digital display monitor, it’s got everything you could ask for from a home cross trainer. Here’s a look under the hood.
Features a digital display monitor
one of the many features you'll greatly appreciate this magnetic elliptical trainer from EFITMENT is the digital display included. On the monitor, you should conveniently be able to see the time, speed, distance, calories burned and the pulse rate and scan.
For the pulse rate, there are pulse rate sensors that are built into the stationary handlebars which aid in monitoring and maintaining a steady target heart rate. All these come in handy in aiding you to meet your fitness goals.
Offers a quiet operation
With this being for use at home, the last thing you want is for it to be noisy. Well, to ensure that the operation is quiet, it features a belt driven flywheel that is also less demanding of maintenance.
In addition to being quiet while running, yet another feature that will make this suitable for home use is the incorporation of transport wheels. With the trainer weighing only 63 lbs., you sure are going to find it easy to move it around your house.
Includes non-slip foot pads
On to the build quality, the included non-slip foot pads will be highly appreciated. Not only are these textured, but they are also oversized and this being the case, you’re guaranteed to have a sure footing each time you are on the E005
As for the weight limit, the maximum user weight is 220 lbs. which makes it eligible for use by most people.
Offers 8 levels of magnetic resistance
Regarding how much you can be able to do with this elliptical trainer, there are 8 levels of magnetic resistance and you can switch between either of these or mix them up to reach your workout goals. Designed to serve as the best beginner elliptical trainer, the stride length is 11 inches which makes it stable to be on.
Pros
Cons
Finishing up out elliptical bike reviews, we’ve got one of the best budget ellipticals bound to give you a kick for your buck. By combining a compact design which features durable construction and does have an amazing performance for a budget elliptical trainer. Here’s a closer look at what it’s got.
Features an easy to read LCD
So as to keep track of your exercises, there’s an easy to read LCD display on which you should be able to see the distance, calories burned, the time, speed as well as the scan and target zone heart rate monitoring. With all these, it should be quite easy for you to maintain your power and speed at all times
Comes in a compact design and features transportation wheels
Measuring 40.9 x 18.9 x 63 inches and weighing only 35.8 kg coupled up with the inclusion of transportation wheels at the bottom, you’ll find it quite easy to move it from one room to the next. Adding on to the fact that it’s a quiet elliptical bike, it should be perfect for home use.
Has got 8 levels of magnetic resistance
With the included silent and low maintenance magnetic resistance which is invoked by the tension knob, it should be quite easy for you to tune up the intensity of your exercise. All you have to do is give it a simple turn, have it where you want it and get your exercises in.
Pros
Cons
The ultimate guide to getting the home elliptical under 500 usd.
We’re about making sure that your cardiovascular health is on point and to complement the above reviews, here’s a buying guide to set you off on the right path. After all, by knowing exactly what to look for in an elliptical, it will be much easier to get one that does suit your needs.
Here are some of the features you are bound to find at this price range and worth paying attention to.
The stride length
A feature that is common on all home elliptical workout machines, it’s important that you do pay attention to the stride length of one before putting your hard-earned cash on the line. in order to determine what will work best for you, all you got to do is determine how much exercise you really want to get out of your elliptical workouts.
The general rule of thumb regarding choosing one based on the stride length is the longer it is, the greater the range of motion and the more intense the workout. As a matter of fact, anything that’s greater than 20 inches is good enough for anyone who’s into intense workouts.
The resistance levels
With all the workout equipment, there is one thing that does set the bad ones from the good ones. In the case of these budget elliptical trainers, it’s the resistance level that sets the line between these two categories.
The more of these there are, the better your workout will be. For the best experience in this price range, I’d recommend that you look for an elliptical trainer that’s got at least 8 levels of resistance. If you’re lucky, you could get as much as 16 levels or more in some ellipticals.
You should, however, bear in mind that the more the resistance levels, the steeper the price of the elliptical trainer. This being the case, it would be a good idea that you weigh out your options well enough before putting your money on the line.
Here’s more…
It’s also important that you pay attention to the type of resistance in which case you’ll have to pick between contact or magnetic braking. Between the two, magnetic braking is what you should go for since it is less demanding of maintenance and is much quieter as compared to contact braking.
It should be able to track your performance
Considering the main purpose of getting an elliptical trainer is to ensure that your cardiovascular health is at its best, it’s important that you consider getting one that’s got performance tracking. This is not really a must-have feature but it's quite an important one either way.
One of the most common is heart rate monitoring. In this price range, this is normally grip based and it should be able to give you an idea of how you are holding up in your workouts.
There’s more…
In addition to tracking your performance, you'll also want to get an elliptical trainer that has got built-in workout programs. The more of these there are, the better the trainer is so getting one with at least 10 programs should be good enough since this way, you should be able to cycle through your workouts well enough.
The display should also be clear enough and easy to interpret. At under 500$, you should get something simple and probably one with an older technology
The build quality and design
Last but not least, the construction is important. The first thing you'll want to pay attention to is the overall size of the elliptical. Considering you'll be using it at home, either in the living room or in your bedroom, go ahead and get one that is compact enough.
The construction should also be sturdy enough to support at least 250 pounds since lower capacity ellipticals are, in most cases, compromised on the quality of the parts used.
Conclusion
From the much that we have looked at, all that can be said is that each one of them is a good enough elliptical trainer. It, however, lies upon you to weigh out your options and pick one that'll work best for you. From either our comparison chart or the rundown, it should be easy enough for you to get Best Elliptical Under 500$ that'll give you the best time.
Also, as much as we’ve focused on giving you the best quality elliptical's, you ought to be really careful on the maintenance; inspect it regularly and when need be, service it occasionally to ensure everything works perfectly well.