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Elliptical machines are a great way to get in shape, but they can be expensive.
If you’re looking for a quality machine that doesn’t break the bank you’re in luck.
In this article, I will help you uncover the best elliptical under $200 to fit your needs.
These machines offer some of the same features as more expensive models but at a fraction of the price.
Table of Contents
15 Best Elliptical Machines Under $200
Here is my list of the best cheap ellipticals, including top fitness brands like Sunny Health & Fitness!
(Price may be subject to change)
1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Air Walker Exercise Machine
The Sunny Air Walk Trainer is great for beginners who are looking for a low-impact workout.
Its non-slip pedals and 30″ stride length make it comfortable and customizable for users of most sizes.
The abdominal pad helps you maintain an upright posture, so you can get the most out of your workout.
Plus, it’s foldable for easy storage when you’re done using it.
The LCD monitor displays your progress as you work out, so you can see your results.
Pros
- Great budget elliptical for beginners to achieve a full-body workout
- The adjustable torso pad offers great support if you have trouble staying upright
- Easy to store away when not in use
- Provides a natural walking motion
- Quick to setup
Cons
- Low-quality hardware
- You can’t adjust the stride length (30″)
Specs
- Dimensions: 19″ D x 25″ W x 57″ H
- Material: Steel
- Maximum Weight Capacity: 220 LBs
- Item Weight: 35 LBs
- 1-year frame, and 90-day parts warranty
2. Sunny Health & Fitness Portable Trainer (Best Compact Elliptical)
This portable trainer features an advanced monitor that tracks time, distance, speed, scan, and calories burned.
The belt drive system ensures a smooth, quiet workout every time.
There are 8 magnetic resistance levels to choose from, and the adjustable handlebar allows you to customize your experience.
This trainer also mimics an elliptical cross trainer and stair stepper, making it a great option for any home gym on a budget.
Pros
- Textured foot plates and non-slip handlebars for stability
- Space efficient
- The pedals are fitted with glide wheels for clean pedaling
- Easily move it around using the carry handle and transport wheels
- An affordable and effective way to work your lower body muscles
- Solid construction with an easy assembly
Cons
- The digital monitor and adjustable tension knob are down by your feet
- The small range of motion may irritate pre-existing joint issues
Specs
- Material: Steel
- Dimensions: 18.5″ D x 33.5″ W x 51.75″ H
- Stride Length: 7″
- Warranty: 3-year frame, 180 days for parts
- Item Weight: 32.6 LBs
- User Weight Capacity: 220 LBs
3. Body Rider Fan Elliptical
This portable and compact elliptical machine is perfect for at-home use and features dual-action handlebars to target different muscle groups.
Plus, the included instructional workout video will help you get started right away.
With its smart workout tracker, you can observe your progress and see results in no time!
Pros
- The handlebars provide a good upper-body workout
- Compact, stable, and lightweight
- Very quiet
- Affordable and simple machine to burn calories
Cons
- Forward motion is sloped downwards
- Limited Range of motion
Specs
- Dimensions: 9.06″ D x 38.58″ W x 24.8″ H
- Material: Steel
- Chain drive fan resistance
- Product Weight: 58 LBs
- Warranty: 1-year
- User Weight Capacity: 250 LBs
4. Plasma Fit 2-in-1 Elliptical and Exercise Bike
The Plasma Fit exercise machine is a low-impact cross trainer that uses magnetic resistance to give you the perfect workout.
The extra large foot pedals and soft hand grips make it easy for anyone to use, even if they have joint or mobility problems.
The LCD display mounts right on the handlebars so you can keep track of your time, distance, speed, and more while working out.
Pros
- You can adjust the seat and handles to fit your size
- Allows you to sit or stand
- Achieve efficient cardio exercise
- Easy assembly
Cons
- Wobbly
- Hardware tends to loosen up
Specs
- Knob-adjusted belt resistance
- Dimensions: 35.5″ D x 21.5″ W x 58.25″ H
- User Weight Capacity: 220 LBs
- Material: Steel
- Stride Length: 11″
- Arm Extension: 21″
5. Sunny Health & Fitness Cross Trainer (Best Elliptical Under $200)
This Sunny Magnetic elliptical trainer is one of the best you’ll find under $200, and it comes with 8 resistance levels to give you a challenging workout.
Plus, the digital monitor with pulse sensor handles lets you keep track of your progress.
It is also partially preassembled, so you can get set up and start working out right away.
And thanks to its onboard stabilizers, this elliptical is extremely stable.
On top of that, it’s super compact and easy to store.
Pros
- Features transportation wheels for movability
- Achieve an effective total body workout
- Excellent floor stability
- Fairly quiet workout machine
- Small footprint
- Offers good features at an affordable price
- Overall best elliptical machine on this list
Cons
- Difficult to assemble for some users
- Short stride lengths
Specs
- Dimensions: 17″ D x 28″ W x 57″ H
- Material: Steel
- Warranty: 3 years for frame, 180 days for parts
- Item Weight: 60.8 LBs
- Weight Capacity: 220 LBs
- Stride Length: 11″
6. SPECSTAR Under Desk Elliptical Machine
This compact elliptical machine fits easily under your desk, so you can use it even if you only have a few minutes.
The built-in handles make it easy to move, and the pre-assembled design means you don’t have to waste time putting it together.
The wireless remote lets you adjust the resistance without bending down, and the LCD screen keeps track of your progress.
The non-slip pedals make it safe and easy to use, even if you’re wearing socks.
Pros
- It has an auto mode with 3 workout programs
- The manual resistance system has 10 levels
- You can pedal forward or backward
- Get in a cardiovascular workout while you work or play video games
- Nearly whisper quiet
Cons
- Should only be used while sitting
- Does not work any upper body muscles
Specs
- Dimensions: 18″ L x 16″ W x 10″ H
- Item Weight: 16.06 LBs
- Material: Plastic
- Weight Capacity: 55 LBs
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
7. Body Champ Magnetic Elliptical Trainer
This trainer has 8 levels of magnetic resistance, so you can customize your workout to your own fitness level.
The electronic computer console tracks your progress and displays your heart rate, so you can see how hard you are working.
The built-in hand pulse monitoring system ensures that you are staying in your target heart rate zone.
The step-through frame design makes it easy to get on and off the trainer, and the transport rollers make it easy to move around.
Pros
- Comfortable, open-back pedals provide extra foot room
- Doesn’t take up much space
- Easy-to-follow setup instructions
- Great customer service
- Decently quiet
- Smooth operation
- Includes a device holder for your phone
Cons
- The stride length (16″) is not ideal for tall users
- Basic features on the LCD monitor
Specs
- Weight Capacity: 250 LBs
- Material: Steel
- Dimensions: 46.25″ L x 22″ W x 62.25″ H
8. XtremepowerUS Dual Action Elliptical Fan Bike
This versatile piece of equipment provides a great cardio workout while also toning your arms and legs.
The adjustable seat ensures that you are always comfortable while working out, and the informative LCD monitor displays your workout data.
The built-in wheels make it easy to move the elliptical bike around your home or gym, and the dual-action arms give you a complete upper-body workout.
Pros
- A combination of exercise bikes and elliptical machines
- Stable and durable
- A great cheap elliptical machine for injury rehab
- Fits nicely in small areas
- Low noise level
- The seat is a nice feature if you have trouble standing upright
Cons
- Pedal operation isn’t the smoothest
- The stride length isn’t ideal for longer legs
Specs
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Weight Capacity: 220 LBs
- Dimensions: 26.5″ D x 37.5″ W x 57.25″ H
- Air resistance
9. Body Rider 2-in-1 Elliptical Machine and Stationary Bike
The Body Rider 2-in-1 Fan Elliptical is perfect for a low-impact, effective workout at home.
The easy-to-use machine can be used either seated or standing, making it a versatile addition to your fitness routine.
The seat adjusts to seven user heights, so anyone in the family can use it.
And the adjustable full-body handlebars and cushion make it comfortable for any workout.
Plus, the covered fan flywheel provides a smooth, quiet ride.
Pros
- It has floor stabilizers positioned in the rear and front
- Comes with built-in transport wheels
- LCD display tracks your time, distance, calories burned, and speed
- Durable construction
- Fairly straightforward assembly
- Compact
Cons
- Inconsistent resistance
- Inaccurate LCD tracking
Specs
- Dimensions: 28.5″ D x 48″ W x 59.5″ H
- Material: Metal
- 8 Fluid Resistance levels
- Weight Capacity: 250 LBs
- 1-year warranty
10. Stamina InMotion Under Desk Elliptical (Best Mini Elliptical)
Looking for an elliptical that can go where you go? Look no further than the Stamina InMotion Under Desk Elliptical!
This lightweight elliptical is perfect for use at home or at the office and can be used seated or standing.
The display monitor tracks your progress, and the adjustable tension knob lets you customize your workout.
Plus, the Stamina InMotion Under Desk Elliptical is supported by the muuv fitness app.
This allows you to track your progress and set goals on your smartphone or tablet.
Pros
- There’s no subscription required for the muuv app
- Requires minimal focus to pedal
- Promotes blood flow
- The muuv app has an assembly video
- Capable of pedaling forward and reverse
- Textured pedals
- Provides a good amount of resistance
- Smooth and quiet operation
Cons
- The display monitor and tension knob are down by your feet
- Requires good balance to use while standing
Specs
- Dimensions: 24.5″ D x 17″ W x 11.38″ H
- Material: Metal
- Item Weight: 24 LBs
- 1-year frame, 90-day parts warranty
- Weight Capacity: 250 LBs
11. ORBITREK X17 Multi-Path Cross Trainer
This unique piece of equipment combines the best of several different workout styles, giving you a cardio workout that is sure to leave you feeling invigorated.
The ORBITREK X17 features 17 different burn paths, which allow you to move naturally while getting an intense workout.
With so many options available, you’ll never get bored with your workout routine.
And because you can achieve a workout in a shorter amount of time, the ORBITREK X17 is ideal for busy people who don’t have a lot of time to spare.
Pros
- Total footprint is 4 square feet
- Roller wheels provide easy transportation
- Burns 34% more calories than exercise bikes
Cons
- The handles are static so they don’t provide a full-body workout
- It uses chains that aren’t the best quality
Specs
- Package Dimensions: 28″ L x 22.3″ W x 11.2″ H
- Package Weight: 64.96 LBs
12. KAB Cross Trainer (Cheapest Elliptical)
This elliptical is super affordable, and its low-impact design is perfect for those with joint issues.
Plus, the LCD display makes it easy to keep track of your progress.
The 8 magnetic resistance levels are also great for gradually increasing the intensity of your workout.
Pros
- A cheap elliptical trainer that gets the job done
- Large Anti-slip platforms for your feet
- Hyper quiet
- Dynamic handles to work upper and lower body muscles
Cons
- The flywheel is pretty light (9.92 LBs)
- Some users had difficulty with the assembly
Specs
- Materials: Steel, Plastic
- Dimensions: 31.1″ D x 20.08″ W x 59.06″ H
- Weight Capacity: 330 LBs
- Product Weight: 61.73 LBs
13. LifePro Under Desk Elliptical (Popular Choice)
This sleek and packed elliptical is perfect for use under your desk, so you can multitask like a pro.
The LifePro Under Desk Elliptical comes with 8 resistance levels, so you can customize your workout to your own fitness level.
Plus, the LCD monitor lets you keep track of your progress as you go.
And if you’re looking to up your game, Bluetooth compatibility allows you to sync your device and track from your phone.
Pros
- Lose belly fat while you’re at work
- Includes a resistance band to tone your upper body
- Features a yoga mat, chair tether, and castor stoppers to ensure security
- Light and easy to carry
- Easy to assemble
- Nearly whisper quiet
- Comfortable foot pedals
Cons
- You’ll have to bend down to adjust the tension
- The display isn’t backlit
Specs
- Dimensions: 18.5″ D x 22.7″ W x 12.9″ H
- Material: Iron
- Lifetime Warranty
- Magnetic System
14. Women’s Health Men’s Health Bluetooth Cardio Stepper
This unique device combines the best features of a stair stepper and an elliptical, making it the perfect choice for a cardio workout.
The resistance bands add an extra challenge, while the LCD tracks step count and more.
The best part?
The MyCloudFitness app lets you connect to your phone to track workouts and follow personalized programs!
The stepper is also adjustable to three different heights, so it can be used by people of all sizes.
Pros
- Can be used while standing up or sitting down
- The resistance bands are adjustable
- Holds sturdy to the ground
- Quiet
Cons
- Not low impact
Specs
- Weight Capacity: 250 LBs
- Dimensions: 23″ L x 16″ W x 19″ H
- Item Weight: 30.9 LBs
- Warranty: 2-year frame, 1-year parts
15. Generic Elliptical Training Machine
This machine features an 11 LB flywheel, 8 magnetic resistance levels, and extra large non-slip foot pedals.
It also has a natural slope motion that makes working out a breeze.
Plus, the heart rate detection handles make it easy to keep track of your progress, while the transport wheels offer easy movement from room to room.
The LCD display makes it easy to see your stats, and the phone/tablet holder lets you stay entertained while you work out.
Pros
- Dynamic handles for upper body workouts
- Noise-free
- Minimal footprint
- Easy to use
Cons
- Lengthy assembly time
- Tends to wobble
Specs
- Dimensions: 40.9″ D x 18.9″ W x 63″ H
- Warranty: 1-year
- Weight Capacity: 330 LBs
- Materials: Aluminum, Iron
2 Types of Elliptical Resistance Explained
There are two common types of elliptical resistance: magnetic and fan.
Fan Ellipticals
Fan-based resistance systems work by using a fan to create resistance as you pedal.
This makes your workout harder and helps you to burn more calories.
The downside of fan elliptical resistance is that they can be quite loud.
However, they are generally inexpensive ellipticals.
Magnetic Ellipticals
Magnetic resistance systems are created by the magnets in the flywheel.
The faster the flywheel spins, the more resistance there is.
This resistance can be adjusted to make the workout easier or harder.
Magnetic machines tend to be much quieter, but also more expensive than fan ellipticals.
What To Consider When Choosing an Elliptical Machine
When choosing the best elliptical trainer, you should consider the following factors:
Footprint
The footprint is how much floor space the machine will take up.
You’ll want to make sure you have enough room for it before you buy one.
Be sure to take pedal swing length into account.
Stride Length
Choose an elliptical with a stride length that is comfortable for your legs.
You don’t want to be cramped up or have to overextend your stride.
Resistance Type
As mentioned previously, there are two main types of resistance on ellipticals – air and magnetic.
Air resistance is created by the user pushing against a fan, while magnetic resistance is created by magnets.
Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Air resistance is more natural, as it simulates the feeling of running or walking outdoors.
It is also less expensive to maintain, as there are no magnets that need to be replaced.
However, air resistance can be noisy, and it can be difficult to adjust the intensity.
Magnetic resistance is quieter than air resistance and it is easier to adjust the intensity.
However, it can be more expensive to maintain, as the magnets need to be replaced periodically.
Durability
Durability is important because you want to make sure that you will be able to use it for a long time.
You don’t want to have to replace your elliptical after just a few months of use.
Look for ellipticals that are made from high-quality materials such as steel.
This will ensure that you can enjoy your elliptical for many years to come.
Functionality
When choosing an elliptical, it is important to consider how the machine will function for you.
Some machines are designed for intensive use, while others are more suited for light use. Be sure to find one that will fit your needs.
Additionally, it is important to test out the machine before you make a purchase.
This will help ensure that you are getting a quality product.
Be sure to ask plenty of questions so that you can make an informed decision.
Noise Level
Some cheap elliptical trainers are much louder than others, and if you plan to use yours in a shared space, you’ll want to choose one that is relatively quiet.
If you’re using your elliptical at home, the noise level may not be as big of a concern.
Extra Features
When looking for low-budget ellipticals, be sure to consider the different features that are available.
Some machines have built-in fans or speakers, while others have heart rate monitors or adjustable resistance levels.
Decide which features are important to you and shop around until you find the machine that has everything you need.
But keep in mind that most cheap elliptical machines won’t always have every feature you want.
Price
You want to find one that fits within your budget and offers all of the features you need.
Make sure to do your research and compare prices before making a purchase.
Warranty
A good warranty will protect your investment and ensure that you are able to get the most out of your elliptical.
This will give you peace of mind knowing that your machine is protected against any potential problems.
How To Use an Elliptical Machine Safely and Effectively
When you use an elliptical machine, be sure to maintain good posture.
Keep your back straight, your shoulders down, and your core engaged.
This will help you to get the most out of your workout.
Also, be sure to keep your strides short.
This will help you stay in control and avoid injury.
Finally, be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout.
Dehydration can lead to dizziness and other health problems.
What To Wear on an Elliptical
When you are working out on the elliptical, you want to be as comfortable as possible.
Wearing loose clothing will help you stay cool and move freely.
A tank top and shorts or leggings are perfect for this type of exercise.
You may also want to consider wearing a sports bra if you are chest-based.
If it is cold outside, you can wear a long-sleeve shirt or sweatshirt over your tank top.
Make sure that whatever you wear is not too baggy, as this can get in the way while you are working out.
You also want to make sure that you are wearing shoes that are comfortable and provide good support.
Sneakers are the best option for this type of exercise.
Avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops, as they can cause you to slip.
If you have joint problems, you may want to consider wearing sneakers with extra cushioning to help reduce impact.
FAQs About Elliptical Trainers
Are Ellipticals Actually Effective?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as the effectiveness of ellipticals will vary depending on the individual’s fitness level, goals, and other factors.
However, generally speaking, ellipticals can be an effective way to engage in cardiovascular exercise and for losing weight.
They are also a low-impact option, which can be beneficial for those with joint issues.
Is Doing the Elliptical 30 Minutes a Day Good?
The elliptical is a great way to get in a cardio workout, and doing it for 30 minutes each day is a good way to get started on a healthy routine.
It can help you burn calories and lose weight, as well as improve your cardiovascular health.
I Hope You Found the Best Elliptical Under $200!
If you are looking for the best cheap elliptical machines to use in your home gym, this is the perfect list for you.
I’ve gathered 15 of the best machines that come in under $200.
So whether you are on a tight budget or just want to save a little money, there is sure to be an option perfect for you here.
Plus, all of these budget ellipticals come with honest customer reviews, so you can be sure that you are getting a quality product.
Hopefully, this list helps you find the perfect one today!
Sources:
https://homegymstrength.com/best-elliptical-machines-for-your-home-gym/
