Schwinn 420

Budget ellipticals don't earn the best expert reviews; case in point, one expert describes the Schwinn 420 elliptical trainer's components and manufacturing as "sub-par at best." It comes with eight workout programs, 16 resistance levels and a handgrip heart-rate monitor, but it lacks an adjustable incline. The 18-inch stride length is also shorter than what you'll find on more expensive ellipticals; most experts recommend a 20-inch stride length. Though the Schwinn 420 lacks these bells and whistles, it stands out from the pack because of its user reviews; many users say it meets their needs for an inexpensive, but sturdy, elliptical trainer. Owners say it is well constructed for this price range, and it doesn't squeak or rattle like other cheaper ellipticals.

Assembly is relatively straightforward, although one user notes that the frame flexes a lot. Users say they like having lots of workout programs to keep their exercise routines interesting. However, numerous owners complain about lengthy service delays if something breaks. In some cases, owners say they waited a few months for replacement parts. The Schwinn 420 comes with a five-year frame warranty and one year for parts and electronics. However, wear parts and labor are covered only for 90 days. If you can afford to spend more, the Sole E35 (*Est. $1,300) gets the best reviews overall, and reviewers say that it's also more durable than a bargain-priced elliptical trainer.

ConsumerReports.org included the Schwinn 420 in its 2011 round of testing, and it restates the results but doesn't retest the Schwinn 420 in its 2012 tests. TreadmillDoctor.com, one of the most prolific elliptical reviewers, also provides a useful review. However, these sources don't provide much analysis to accompany their ratings. For that, we turn to user reviews at Amazon.com, Buzzillions.com and Walmart.com.