NordicTrack AudioStrider 990

Reviewers say the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 has excellent features for the money: power incline, iFit workouts, 24 workout programs and a port to plug in an MP3 player. It even folds up to save space. Most owners say this elliptical feels pretty solid given its size, and they appreciate the value. Professional elliptical reviewers agree, saying the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 is one of the best options under $1,000. However, owners on Sears.com report premature breakdowns and difficulty getting replacement parts. Owner-written reviews also include complaints about NordicTrack's customer service. If you have a bit more room in your budget, the Sole E35 (*Est. $1,300) is a quality machine that will stand up to regular use. If you need only a basic elliptical for occasional workouts, the Schwinn 430 (*Est. $600) also gets excellent user reviews.

The most credible source for elliptical trainer reviews, TreadmillDoctor.com, gives the AudioStrider 990 a 2009 Best Buy award in the $700 to $1,000 price range. ConsumerReports.org also includes the AudioStrider 990 in its most recent test of elliptical trainers, and Wired has an interesting (although old) review. Another good review comes from fitness-industry professional Fred Waters, who runs Fitness-Equipment-Source.com. Although it doesn't match the rigor of TreadmillDoctor.com, his review includes more detail about the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990's features and performance. Owner-written reviews at Sears.com are another excellent source of information; there are enough entries there to rival the top professional reviews. There are also short entries from Fitness magazine and ConsumerGuide.com.