Elliptical Trainers: Reviews

The Sole E35 continues to impress reviewers with its combination of durability, function and value. Experts say the Sole E35 elliptical trainer is sturdy and quiet, and it excels in independent testing. In fact, it is the… expandhighest-rated elliptical machine under $2,000 in a recent test. The Sole E35 has a 20-inch stride length and it has an automated incline that helps target different muscle groups. Other popular features include wireless heart-rate monitoring, eight workout programs, 20 resistance levels and built-in speakers for an MP3 player. The Sole E35 is backed by a solid warranty: lifetime on the frame, five years on parts and electronics, and two years on labor. On a negative note, owners posting to review sites say assembly can be frustrating and takes several hours. We also saw a few complaints about poor customer service. collapse

Among elliptical trainers costing $1,000 or less, reviewers say the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 Pro hits the sweet spot. The AudioStrider's features match more expensive elliptical machines, including a motorized… expandincline, 25 workout programs, built-in speakers and a 350-pound weight capacity. The stride length is adjustable from 18 to 20 inches, which is a feature you won't find on many budget elliptical trainers. Most reviewers praise the AudioStrider 990 Pro for offering a stable feel and lots of workout programs, and the automated incline gets high marks for increasing the elliptical's exercise range. However, the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 Pro is not without its downsides. In particular, we read mixed reviews for durability -- including complaints about broken components and long service delays. The elliptical comes with a lifetime frame warranty; parts and labor are covered for one year. collapse

If you don't want to spend much, the basic Schwinn 420 elliptical trainer gets excellent user reviews. The Schwinn 420 is a compact elliptical trainer that boasts 16 resistance levels, 12 workout programs and a handgrip… expandheart-rate monitor. The stride length is fixed at 18 inches, which is in line with most budget ellipticals, but some taller users say it feels too short. The Schwinn 420 also lacks features you can find on pricier elliptical machines, including an incline adjustment, built-in MP3 speakers or a workout fan. Even though it lacks these bells and whistles, owners rave about the value. Durability is good for an elliptical trainer in this price range, and reviewers say the Schwinn 420 doesn't squeak or rattle as long as you maintain it regularly. However, users report long service delays if something breaks -- some owners say they waited months for replacement parts. Experts also recommend that serious athletes, heavy individuals or tall users look for a more durable trainer like the Sole E35 elliptical trainer. collapse

It is expensive, but experts say the Precor EFX 5.25 can hold up to a regular pounding. Reviewers praise the quality, saying the Precor EFX 5.25 elliptical machine is sturdy, durable and tough. The adjustable stride (from… expand18.5 to 20 inches) gets high marks, and users say they love the smooth motion and automated incline. Given the size and heft of this elliptical trainer, assembly can be a challenge and takes at least several hours. In addition, the Precor EFX 5.25 supports wireless heart-rate monitoring but doesn't come with a chest strap -- an accessory that is often included on elliptical trainers costing much less, including the Sole E35. Overall, though, experts say the Precor EFX 5.25 is a great choice if you want a top-quality elliptical for your home gym. The elliptical comes with a lifetime frame warranty and one year of labor coverage; models sold after Dec, 1, 2010 have a five-year parts warranty (machines sold prior to that date have 10 years of parts coverage). collapse