Introduction
Are you a health-conscious in the search for good elliptical exercising that is also on a budget? Then this is the most right place for you because this is an article on the best elliptical for under $500.
The elliptical machine is kind of like stationary treadmills. You have to get on them and use your legs in walking or running motion. The elliptical is safer and has a lower impact on its users.
There are many types of elliptical found in today’s market. The most common is the normal elliptical which you have to stand and use. However, there are also some types that have a seat with them. And there are also some that are very small in size and can be used from under any table. They are also called the mini elliptical machines.
This article is about the best elliptical under $500. We will give you the best elliptical machines that are available in the market today. And of course, they will be under $500.
Before I start our main topic, let me brief you about the elliptical first.
The elliptical is a cross-trainer stationary exercising machine that provides workouts to its user in walking, running and stair climbing motion. Their pedals move in the shape of an ellipse.
Like the exercise bikes, they have a resistance system, drive system, flywheels, pedals, tension system, workout programs, etc. If you are not aware of these things, don’t worry. By the end of this article, you will learn everything. You only have to be patient and read the full article carefully.
And if you do not read up to the end, then you will miss some very interesting things about the best elliptical for under $500.
- Model: 1302
- Product Dimensions: 54 x 23 x 63 inches
- Maximum user weight: 300 pounds
- Ratings on Amazon: 3.5 stars out of 5 stars
- Model: Schwinn A40
- Product Dimensions: 59 x 23 x 64 inches
- Product weight: 104.9 pounds
- Ratings on Amazon: 3.8 stars out of 5 stars
- Product Dimensions: 41.7 x 11.6 x 23.2 inches
- Product weight: 78.7 pounds approximately
- Ratings on Amazon: 5 stars out of 5 stars
- Model: Schwinn 411
- Product weight: 120 pounds
- Workout programs: 13 programs
- Ratings on Amazon: 3.9 stars out of 5 stars
- Product Dimensions: 23.2 x 17.5 x 10 inches
- Product weight: 25 pounds approximately
- Ratings on Amazon: 4.7 stars out of 5 stars
- Model: F3A1
- Product Dimensions: 22.8 x 17.2 x 9.8 inches
- Product weight: 27 pounds
- Ratings on Amazon: 4.3 stars out of 5 stars
- Model: SF E905
- Product Dimensions: 28 x 17 x 57 inches
- Product weight: 61 pounds
- Ratings on Amazon: 3.7 stars out of 5 stars
- Model: BST800
- Product Dimensions: 42 x 24 x 62 inches
- Product weight: 80 pounds
- Ratings on Amazon: 4.0 stars out of 5 stars
- Model: BR1830
- Product Dimensions: 38.6 x 9.1 x 24.8 inches
- Product weight: 58 pounds
- Ratings on Amazon: 3.7 stars out of 5 stars
- Resistance system: Magnetic resistance system
- Product Dimensions: 38 inches (L) x 25.8 inches (H) x 15 inches (W)
- Ratings on Amazon: 4.2 stars out of 5 stars
- Product Dimensions: 40.9 x 18.9 x 63 inches
- Product weight: 78.9 pounds approximately
- Ratings on Amazon: 4.6 stars out of 5 stars
1. Exerpeutic 1302 heavy duty magnetic elliptical trainer
As our first product in the list of the best elliptical under $500, we bring you the Exerpeutic heavy duty magnetic elliptical.
This elliptical trainer is one of the best-selling products of its class. Besides, it is also one of the best elliptical for home under $500. So let us know what makes this machine so great.
First of all, I would like to talk about the resistance system of this elliptical. This machine operates upon the magnetic resistance system. This magnetic resistance system is also comprised of 8 different levels of tension levels. And this resistance level too is adjustable by the user according to his or her needs.
Then comes the drive system. This machine has the V-belt drive system. This drive system is assisted with precision balanced flywheel.
The drive system, the flywheel and the magnetic resistance system of the machine together make the operation very smooth, quiet and comfortable.
Speaking of comfort, this elliptical is designed in such a way that it has the natural elliptical motion. As a result, any jerking or unusual movement is not felt while using it. This also happens to be one of the many reasons behind the positive user experiences.
There is a large LCD monitor that works as the display console of this elliptical trainer. You will be able to see the time, speed, distance, scan, heart pulse rate, calories on its easy to read display.
Both of the pedals of this machine are ribbed. So that they can prevent any accidental slipping of feet during workouts. Besides, these pedals are also bi-directional. It means you can pedal both forwards and backward. Along with the pedals, you have to move the handlebars too. This also provides a full body workout to the users.
Specifications
- Model: 1302
- Product Dimensions: 54 x 23 x 63 inches
- Resistance system: Magnetic resistance system
- Tension adjustment: 8 levels
- Product weight: 88.2 pounds
- Maximum user weight: 300 pounds
- Pedals: Bi-directional
- Display: Large LCD monitor shows time, speed, distance, burned calories, scan and heart pulse rate
- Ratings on Amazon: 3.5 stars out of 5 stars
Product Features
- The bi-directional pedaling motion along with the dual action handlebars can give the users of this machine with total body muscle workout.
- There is a magnetic resistance system that also has 8 levels of adjustable resistance makes the users provide extra effort to train with this elliptical.
- The V-belt drive system and the precision balanced flywheel add up more difficulty to the machine and also make it smooth and silent during operation.
- This machine has two small transportation wheels with it which makes it easily portable.
- The display monitor shows heart pulse rate, time, speed, distance, scan and the amount of calories burnt during the workouts with this elliptical.
Pros
- Magnetic resistance system
- Adjustable resistance
- V-belt drive system
- Transportation wheels
- Dual directional flywheel and pedaling.
- Smooth operation
- Silent use
- Large pedals
- Dual action arms
- 300 pounds user weight
- Heart rate sensors
Cons
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2. Schwinn A40 elliptical machine
This is the Schwinn A40 elliptical trainer machine. It is one of the top rated elliptical in the market. Its price isn’t very cheap but not at all expensive. There is a very good reason for such a cost of this machine. We’ll discuss them one by one.
First of all, there is the magnetic resistance system of the elliptical. And this resistance system is fully controllable and divided into 8 different levels. Each level provides more resistance than the previous level.
One of the most important factors in an elliptical is the measurement of its stride. In case of this Schwinn A40 elliptical machine, the stride length is 17.5 inches.
Then comes the console of this elliptical. Firstly, the large console shows time, speed, distance, burnt calories, RPM, heart pulse rate, results. Then, it contains all the control buttons of the elliptical.
The most interesting fact about the Schwinn A40 elliptical is the workout programs installed in it. There are 7 preset workout programs and a quick start program. This is a big reason for the cost of this product.
After them, rest are small features for this bike. Among them, a mentionable one is the heart rate sensor with the handlebars. These sensors are placed ergonomically in the handlebars so that the users can easily get the measure of heart pulse rate.
Besides, the handlebars perform moving action for the hands. As a result, this machine is capable of providing dual-action workout for the whole body.
Some of the other minor components include the speaker, media rack and bottle holder. The speaker and the media rack are attached to the console of the trainer. And, the bottle holder that helps you to stay hydrated while working out, comes with the central pole of the product.
Specifications
- Model: Schwinn A40
- Product Dimensions: 59 x 23 x 64 inches
- Resistance system: Magnetic resistance system
- Tension adjustment: 8 levels
- Product weight: 104.9 pounds
- Workout programs: 7 preset programs
- Display: Large LCD monitor shows time, speed, distance, burned calories, scan, RPM and heart pulse rate
- Warranty: 6 months mechanical, 6 months electrical and 2 years on the frames
- Ratings on Amazon: 3.8 stars out of 5 stars
Product Features
- High speed and high inertia perimeter weighted flywheel along with a magnetic resistance system of 8 adjustable levels for ensuring variable, smooth and quiet workout experience for the users.
- The large display console has 7 workout programs installed in it as well as show the time, speed, distance, calories, scan, RPM, heart pulse rate and the results.
- The console also has a speaker, to listen to any audio, a media holder where you can place any phone or tablet or book while you are exercising.
- This machine can fully provide upper, lower and whole body workout to its users due to the pedals and the dual action handlebars.
Pros
- Magnetic resistance system
- Workout programs
- Adjustable resistance
- Transportation wheels
- Silent use
- Large pedals
- Dual action arms
- Bottle holder
- Heart rate sensors
- Smooth operation
Cons
- The monitor will get hidden if any big book or tablet is placed on the media holder.
3. ANCHEER elliptical exercise trainer
First of all, let me start with the construction of this elliptical. This is machine is made of strong steel tubes. The steel tubes give the elliptical a good compact structure. Not only that, the whole elliptical has a very strong and user friendly structure.
For instance, look at the resistance and tension system of this elliptical. It has the 8 adjustable leveled magnetic resistance system. The flywheel inside the machine weighs more than 13 pounds. And there is a V-belt drive system connected with the flywheel.
When you put all these things together, you get a super good, quiet and smooth elliptical trainer machine.
The pedals; look at those pedals of this elliptical. They have a big shape of 13 inch size. And their surface is fully non-slipping. On top of that, they are also bi-directional. And can support up to 350 pounds of maximum user weight.
Now, about the console; there is a big multi-function digital LCD monitor that shows the users their progress made during working out with this elliptical. Basically, it shows, time, speed, distance, heart pulse rate, scan and the amount of calories burned during the workouts.
Then there is the presence of the transportation wheels with the trainer. If you need to move the elliptical for any reason, the transportation wheels are the magical spheres that will help you in this regard. With these transportation wheels, you can move the whole unit very easily.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 41.7 x 11.6 x 23.2 inches
- Resistance system: Magnetic resistance system
- Tension adjustment: 8 levels
- Product weight: 78.7 pounds approximately
- Flywheel weight: 13 pounds approximately
- Maximum user weight: 350 pounds
- Pedals: Bi-directional
- Display: Large LCD monitor shows time, speed, distance, burned calories, scan and heart pulse rate
- Ratings on Amazon: 5 stars out of 5 stars
Product Features
- This machine operates on the magnetic resistance system which happens to have 8 different but fully adjustable levels.
- The large pedals with the non-slip surface as well as with bi-directional pedaling features can provide great comfort while using it.
- The precision balanced heavy flywheel along with the V-belt drive system makes the operation of the bike very silent, smooth and user efficient.
- There is a multi-functional LCD monitor that shows the time, speed, distance, scan, heart pulse rate and the amount of calories burned.
- Two small wheels are found at the bottom of this machine which helps the user to move this elliptical from one place to another easily.
Pros
- Magnetic resistance system
- Adjustable resistance
- V-belt drive system
- Smooth operation
- Silent use
- Bi-directional pedaling
- Large pedals
- Dual action arms
- Transportation wheels
- Heart rate sensors
Cons
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4. Schwinn 411 elliptical trainer machine
Once again we are back to you with another one of heavy duty elliptical machines manufactured by the Schwinn.
This Schwinn 411 elliptical is a better version from the previous Schwinn A40 elliptical machine.
The very first example would be the eddy current brake system along with its 16 levels of adjustable tension. The eddy current brake system is the more improved type of resistance system than the usual ones. It is the smoothest, quietest and best resistance system available.
The display; the streamline display console shows the time, speed, distance, heart pulse rate, calories. However, this is not all. On top of those statistics, you will find 13 workout programs installed in it. Furthermore, you can connect to the World App that can connect you with anyone using the app for virtual running.
There is a media tray with the console where you can put a big tablet and connect with this app and have a live feed of the virtual world. You can travel around any place of the earth using this app.
A very important point to remember while buying any elliptical machine is the stride length of that elliptical. Stride length is the height of the elliptical pedals. The stride length of the Schwinn 411 elliptical machine is about 18 inches.
Specifications
- Model: Schwinn 411
- Product Dimensions:
- Resistance system: Eddy current brake resistance
- Tension adjustment: 16 levels
- Product weight: 120 pounds
- Workout programs: 13 programs
- Display: Streamline LCD monitor shows time, speed, distance, calories, heart pulse rate
- Warranty: 90 days labor, 2 years on parts and 10 years on the frames
- Ratings on Amazon: 3.9 stars out of 5 stars
Product Features
- Supports social world app which can provide virtually real-life running experience with real people using this app.
- As a result of strong and sturdy construction, this machine is given a long time warranty; one of it includes 10 years on the frames.
- In this Schwinn 411, there is a streamline console that has 13 workout programs installed in it and shows workout statistics like time, speed, distance, calories, and heart pulse rate.
- One of the most exciting features of this machine is the eddy current brake resistance system along with 16 adjustable levels of tension that makes the operation of this elliptical very smooth and silent and very intense.
Pros
- Eddy current brake resistance
- Workout programs
- Adjustable resistance
- Transportation wheels
- Large pedals
- Dual action arms
- Silent operation
- Heart rate sensors
- High contrast LCD monitor
- Smooth operation
- Total body workout
Cons
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5. Cubii Jr. under desk elliptical machine
After a series of some very serious and intense best compact elliptical under $500, we bring you a low priced and one of the best elliptical machines for home use under $500.
This elliptical from Cubii Jr. is a type of mini elliptical machine. They more likely competitors to the mini exercise bikes.
In this type of elliptical, we generally have almost all the facilities of the normal elliptical. The only difference is that they have everything compressed in a smaller size. However, the only throwback of these machines is their small size. As all of their components are reduced, their ability to provide high impact workout also reduces. So, with this type of elliptical machines, you will only get low impact workouts.
This machine is absolutely silent; which makes it compatible for using in the office or anywhere. Whether you are eating or reading or watching TV, you can use this machine without being distracted by any kind of noise.
To provide you with various kinds of workouts, it has 8 separate levels of adjustable tension. As a result, you will have full control of the intensity of your workouts.
There is a very small display monitor installed in it that keep real-time track of your workouts. For example, it keeps the track of your workout time, distance, strides, RPM and the amount of calories.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 23.2 x 17.5 x 10 inches
- Tension adjustment: 8 adjustable levels
- Product weight: 25 pounds approximately
- Battery: 1 LR44 battery required (included)
- Display: Shows time, distance, RPM, burned calories, strides
- Ratings on Amazon: 4.7 stars out of 5 stars
Product Features
- Compact and easy to use design makes the machine easy to maneuver by its users.
- Silent and smooth use makes it usable in any formal environment like the office.
- 8 levels of fully adjustable tension make the users choose their desired intensity of workouts.
- A small display monitor shows the time, distance, RPM, strides and the number of calories burnt while using this elliptical.
Pros
- Adjustable tension
- Large pedals
- Silent operation
- Compact design
- Easy to assemble
- Smooth operation
- Lightweight
Cons
- Keeping track could be hard if it is kept under any desk or table
6. Cubii Pro under desk elliptical machine
After the Cubii Jr. under desk elliptical machine, we are bringing you the Cubii Pro under-desk elliptical machine. The Cubii Pro under desk elliptical machine is the upgraded version of the Cubii Jr.
In the Cubii Pro under desk elliptical machine, you will get all the features of the Cubii Jr. as well as some very new and upgraded features. For instance, the Cubii Pro has connectivity to extra workout apps instead of just keeping the track with the small display monitor. It can connect to any android or Apple phone or the Fitbit smart bands or Apple Health Kit to keep monitor your workout statistics.
The rest of the features of this machine is just like the other one. As they are all same, I am not going to bore you by writing the same things over and over. You can just look at the description above if you do not remember the features.
However, there remains one little difference. The pro version’s construction is different from the previous Jr. It is more compact and extra stylish. And, there is no monitor in the pro elliptical like the Cubii Jr.
Specifications
- Model: F3A1
- Product Dimensions: 22.8 x 17.2 x 9.8 inches
- Tension adjustment: 8 adjustable levels
- Product weight: 27 pounds
- Battery: 1 lithium ion battery required (included)
- Display: No monitor with the body of the machine
- Ratings on Amazon: 4.3 stars out of 5 stars
Product Features
- Compact and easy to use design makes the machine easy to maneuver by its users.
- Silent and smooth use makes it usable in any formal environment like the office.
- 8 levels of fully adjustable tension make the users choose their desired intensity of workouts.
- Instead of the regular display monitor, this one has Bluetooth connectivity to any android or Apple device as well as workout apps like Fitbit and Apple Health Kit and track the users’ workouts there.
Pros
- Adjustable tension
- Light weight
- Large pedals
- Silent operation
- Extra workout apps
- Compact design
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Easy to assemble
- Smooth operation
Cons
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7. Sunny Health & Fitness SF E905 elliptical machine
This is the 7th product in our list of the best elliptical under $500 for home use. It’s the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 elliptical machine.
This elliptical is made to occupy less space as well as provide a good workout to the fatigue ones. Its design is also very sturdy so is totally safe to use.
Unlike most other elliptical machines, this Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 elliptical has onboard floor stabilizers to prevent any uneven motion of the machine. Moreover, there are also many more comfy features in this machine.
Both of the pedals and the handlebars of this elliptical consist of anti-slip surface and are comfortable to hold. The stride length of this machine is 11 inches.
Then comes the resistance system of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 elliptical machine. It has the usual magnetic resistance system like every other good exercise bikes and elliptical machines. On top of the magnetic resistance system, it has 8 separate levels of tension. And these, by the way, are also adjustable by the user. There is a tension adjustment knob situated in the middle of the central pole.
Now we are left with the console. Well, there is a digital display monitor with this machine that allows the users to see different workout statistics made by them while using the elliptical. They include time, speed, distance, heart pulse rate and the amount of calories burnt while working out.
And yeah, I just remembered; this elliptical machine is also a total body exerciser. If you look at it carefully you will see it has two pairs of handlebars. And one of them is moving. The user of this machine can use them with their hands for upper body exerciser while they are running with the elliptical.
Specifications
- Model: SF E905
- Product Dimensions: 28 x 17 x 57 inches
- Resistance system: Magnetic resistance system
- Tension adjustment: 8 levels of adjustable tension
- Product weight: 61 pounds
- Maximum user weight: 220 pounds
- Display: Digital display monitor shows time, speed, distance, heart pulse rate and burned calories
- Ratings on Amazon: 3.7 stars out of 5 stars
Product Features
- The Sunny Health & Fitness SF E905 elliptical machine has 8 levels of fully adjustable tension that originated from the smooth and quiet magnetic resistance system.
- This machine is a total body exerciser because of the dual action handlebars and the usual pedaling motion of the elliptical.
- To make it immobile, there are floor stabilizers at both ends of this machine that prevent any sliding or slipping movement while using it.
- To make it mobile by the will of its owner, there are small transportation wheels with the elliptical; because of these wheels, the user can move the unit easily from one place to another.
- The digital display monitor of this elliptical machine shows the time, speed, distance, heart pulse rate and the amount of calories burnt by the users while operating the machine.
Pros
- Adjustable resistance
- Transportation wheels
- Large pedals
- Dual action arms
- Silent operation
- Heart rate sensors
- Smooth operation
- Total body workout
- Very affordable price
Cons
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8. Body Power BST800 2 in 1 elliptical stepper trainer
This machine is the perfect example of low price, gym quality and high quality elliptical. It is not just an elliptical rather it is also a stepper.
One of the most exceptional features of this elliptical is its curve crank technology. As a result of this technology, the machine provides constant tension in the X and Y axes.
It is also the prime reason behind its ability to offer the stepping function. Furthermore, because of the curved crank system of this machine, the pedals can move in both directions.
The crank is positioned in an ergonomic position from where it can provide adjustability to the tension system. For your information, this machine has 8 adjustable levels of tension.
The LCD monitored console of this elliptical shows the basic workout statistics. They include time, speed, distance, and heart pulse rate.
There is still something left in the console. Just above it, there is a media holder. We generally see that the media holder is situated below the monitor. And when any big device such as a tablet is placed there, the monitor gets covered. As the media holder is placed above the monitor of this machine, this problem is not faced.
If you ever want to change its position from one place to another, pulling it up from the ground and moving it could be disturbing. To remove this problem, you will have small transportation wheels at one of the legs of this machine. Using these wheels, you can easily move its position.
Another special characteristic of this machine is its ability to provide HIIT. HIIT stands for High-Intensity Interval Training. HIIT is a type of intense cardiovascular exercise performed in a short period of time with taking rest.
Specifications
- Model: BST800
- Product Dimensions: 42 x 24 x 62 inches
- Tension adjustment: 8 adjustable levels of tension
- Product weight: 80 pounds
- Maximum user weight: 250 pounds
- Display: Digital display monitor shows time, speed, distance, heart pulse rate and burned calories
- Warranty: 1 year
- Ratings on Amazon: 4.0 stars out of 5 stars
Product Features
- Using the curve crank technology, this machine can provide various types of exercises including the dual motion of pedals, resistance, adjustable tension and many more.
- In the many more, there includes a very important feature of this elliptical trainer; the HIIT workouts.
- This machine can be used anywhere like home or office conveniently as it does not make any noise and also very smooth while operating.
- There are transportation wheels wit this machine so that you can move it from one place to another easily.
- The console has a dual use; firstly it shows time, speed, distance, and the heart pulse rate and it also contains the media holder.
Pros
- Adjustable resistance
- 2 in 1 use
- Transportation wheels
- Large pedals
- Dual action arms
- Media holder
- Silent operation
- Curve crank technology
- Heart rate sensors
- Smooth operation
- HIIT workout
- Dual pedal movement
- Total body workout
- Very affordable price
Pros
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9. Body Rider BR1830 fan elliptical trainer
After a long series of the best rated elliptical under $500, we now have a special type of elliptical. Normally we see that most of the elliptical have a magnetic resistance system and belt drive system and some adjustable levels of the resistance. We also find a weighted flywheel along with double pairs of handlebars.
But this product has completely different scenario. You can easily identify many variations in this machine than the other ones.
For the first example, see the position of the console in this elliptical. While others have the console mounted on a stand, this one has it above the fan. If you are confused about the word “fan”; that you should be; we’ll learn about it afterward.
In the console, the multi-function LCD monitor shows time, speed, distance, scan and the burned calories with this machine.
Now, the handlebars of this machine are dual-action type. This means you can have a perfect upper as well as lower body exercise with this piece of exercising equipment. And the ability to provide lower and upper body exercise makes it a full body exerciser.
Now the most interesting fact about this elliptical; the “fan” word. Instead of any flywheel and a typical magnetic or friction resistance system, this bike has a fan and the air resistance system. When you pedal the machine, the fan will rotate instead of a flywheel. As the fan moves, it will automatically provide resistance by blowing air. This is the principal mechanism of the air resistance system. And it has unlimited or infinite levels of tension.
Again, the elliptical uses a chain instead of a belt to rotate the fan against the pedaling. The chain drive is another type of drive system and great a competitor to the belt drive system.
Specifications
- Model: BR1830
- Resistance system: Air resistance system
- Product Dimensions: 38.6 x 9.1 x 24.8 inches
- Tension adjustment: Unlimited but adjustable tension
- Product weight: 58 pounds
- Drive system: Chain drive system
- Stride length: 12 inches
- Display: Shows time, speed, distance, burned calories and scan
- Ratings on Amazon: 3.7 stars out of 5 stars
Product Features
- This Body Rider BR1830 elliptical machine has the special air resistance system produced by the fan and has infinite levels of adjustable tension.
- Instead of the two pairs of handlebars, we have one pair of dual action handlebars that can provide both upper and lower body workouts to the users.
- The chain drive system is present in this elliptical machine to connect the resistance providing fan with the pedals.
- The multi-functional LCD monitor shows the time, speed, distance, scan and the amount of calories burnt during the workouts.
- There are transportation wheels that the user can use to move the unit from one place to another conveniently.
Pros
- Adjustable resistance
- Transportation wheels
- Large pedals
- Dual action arms
- Total body workout
- HIIT workout
- Infinite tension
- Affordable price
- 12 inches stride
Cons
- Not completely silent
10. MaxKare magnetic elliptical machine trainer
We welcome you to the best elliptical trainer under $500 from MaxKare. This elliptical machine has one of the most stylish and cool looks of all the others. The design of its frames is also spectacular.
Other than its good looking outer body, it’s also good from the inside. It has the magnetic resistance system which also happens to have 8 adjustable levels of tension. Among them, the first two levels provide light warm up exercises. The next three levels of tension give ideal body building workout most suitable for the young generation. And the last three levels provide hardcore exercise for people who do not get to move a lot. It’s ideal for people who have to seat for hours without moving muscles.
The last two levels are best for removing all the soreness and clumsiness of the muscles produced from staying idle for a long time.
Along with the resistance system, there is another great exercising component in this elliptical. That’s the 31 pound weighing flywheel. The flywheel is the primary equipment that creates resistance in the elliptical. And a heavy flywheel can generate a great amount of resistance and provide further greater exercise.
The console of this elliptical machine consists of an LCD monitor that shows the basic workout statistics like time, speed, distance, heart pulse rate and the amount of calories burned while exercising with this machine. Besides, there is a media holder with the console. You can keep yourself entertained with the media device or the book at the time of using the elliptical exerciser.
There’re transportation wheels to move the machine from one place to another place. Another external feature includes the cup holder on the central post. You can keep any bottle there to keep yourself hydrated during the workouts.
Specifications
- Resistance system: Magnetic resistance system
- Product Dimensions: 38 inches (L) x 25.8 inches (H) x 15 inches (W)
- Tension adjustment: 8 levels of adjustable tension
- Maximum user weight: 264 pounds
- Stride length: 13.5 inches
- Display: Shows time, speed, distance, calories, and the heart pulse rate
- Ratings on Amazon: 4.2 stars out of 5 stars
Product Features
- This MaxKare operates with the help of the magnetic resistance system for providing a smooth and quiet workout experience.
- The magnetic resistance system has 8 adjustable tension levels to provide further variable intensity while exercising.
- The large pedal of this elliptical machine supports both forward and reverse pedaling motion.
- There is a heavy flywheel that weighs about 31 pounds which plays a great role in providing hardcore exercise to the users of this elliptical.
- The console not only has a media holder but also bears an LCD monitor where we will be able to see the time, speed, distance, calories and the heart pulse rate of the user.
Pros
- Magnetic resistance system
- Adjustable resistance
- Transportation wheels
- Large pedals
- Dual action arms
- Cup holder
- Bi-directional pedaling
- Total body workout
- Affordable price
Cons
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11. Bestlucky elliptical training machine
This is an extra strong and special elliptical trainer machine given by Bestlucky. The main reason behind its strong construction is the steel tubes from which it is made.
As a result of such strong construction, this product can support 330 pounds of maximum user weight.
To perform exercises with ease and comfortability, this elliptical is rich in the ergonomics. The stride length of this machine is 13 inches. Moreover, the pedals can offer pedaling in both forward and backward directions. And the surface of these pedal is fully slip resistant.
To keep the exact monitor of the user’s workouts with the elliptical, there is an advanced digital LCD monitor that also has a media holder with it. In the display monitor, you will be able to see the time, speed, distance, calories, odometer, scan, and the heart pulse rate of the user. Heart rate is measured with the heart pulse sensors installed in the stationary handlebar.
Yeah, this machine also has two pairs of handlebars. One of them helps to get a good amount of upper body exercise.
Now, as the resistance system of this heavy duty elliptical, the magnetic system is used. And you already know that the magnetic resistance systems offer a very smooth and quiet user experience.
Furthermore, the resistance system is divided into 8 separate levels of magnetron car tension system. So try to imagine how great it would be to use this machine!
To make it stable at any circumstance, there are stabilizers that are also extended to provide better and stable support.
And like always, you will have two portability wheels with the product to move it easily from one place to another.
Specifications
- Resistance system: Magnetic resistance system
- Product Dimensions: 40.9 x 18.9 x 63 inches
- Product weight: 78.9 pounds approximately
- Tension system: Magnetron car tension
- Tension adjustment: 8 levels of adjustable tension
- Maximum user weight: 330 pounds
- Stride length: 13.5 inches
- Display: Shows time, speed, distance, calories, heart pulse rate, odometer, and scan
- Ratings on Amazon: 4.6 stars out of 5 stars
Product Features
- Uses the magnetic resistance system with 8 levels of adjustable tension to provide a smooth and silent user experience.
- Tension is provided with the famous magnetron tension system.
- The LCD monitor shows the time, speed, distance, burned calories, scan, odometer and the heart pulse rate of the users.
- The pedals of this elliptical have an anti-slip surface as well as provides both forward and backward pedaling.
- Media holder, transportation wheels, rich ergonomics, strong construction are some of the mentionable features of this Bestlucky elliptical training machine.
Pros
- Magnetic resistance system
- Adjustable resistance
- Magnetron car tension system
- Transportation wheels
- Large pedals
- Dual action arms
- Bi-directional pedaling
- 13 inches stride
- Silent operation
- Steel tube framing
- Total body workout
- Affordable price
- Media holder
Cons
- Big devices such as IPad or tablet or book may cover the display monitor.
Buying guide
Welcome to my buyer’s guide to the article on the best elliptical for under $500. In this buyer’s guide, you will be able to learn every single detail about the elliptical machines. Which elliptical to choose, how to choose the best elliptical, what type of components are present in the elliptical, which components are good and which are bad and many more things will be discussed in this buying guide.
At the end of this guide, you will be fully capable of choosing the best elliptical machine all by yourself. Even if you are completely new and do not have any idea about these elliptical machines.
Finally, there is a surprise waiting for you at the end of this guide. If you like surprises, read the full guide.
How to choose an elliptical machine…
Before we buy any kind of product, we are ought to know about the product. Otherwise, we will not be able to judge the best product in the market.
This is why, when we need to buy an elliptical machine, we need to know all about it. We need to know about its components, the pros, and cons as well as the uses and also the demand and service of those components.
So without delaying any more time, let us start with the most essential points to know about the elliptical machines.
Resistance system
By now you must have already learned a lot about the resistance system of elliptical. The resistance system is required in an elliptical machine so that they can provide their users with various intensities of exercises.
Without a good resistance system, the elliptical machine would provide only one simple workout. But with the resistance system, it can provide several types of exercise in different levels of resistance and different intensities.
There are various types of resistance system used in the elliptical. The most ideal resistance system you will find in elliptical under $500 is either the magnetic resistance system or the air resistance system.
Magnetic resistance system
The magnetic resistance system uses magnet around the flywheel that wither attracts or repulses it. And with this force of attraction or repulsion, you get harder or easier exercises.
There are many advantages of this magnetic resistance system which comes in very handy for us. Among them, smoothness and quietness are mentionable ones. Most of the professional grade exercising equipment uses this magnetic resistance system. Besides, there are many more things that can be added to the magnetic resistance system if more money is spent.
Air resistance
It is another one of the most common, cheap and efficient resistance systems.
The machine that has the air resistance system does not have a flywheel like others. Instead, they have a fan. When you pedal the machine, it powers a fan that blows against the blades of the drive wheel.
The best advantage of this type of resistance system is that they offer unlimited but adjustable tension. Didn’t catch it, right?
Well, it provides tension as you pedal. So the resistance increases as fast as you pedal. You can just make an adjustment to how much force you need to pedal the fan.
The machines with air resistance system usually cost less than the magnetic resistance system.
While most of them are silent, sometimes some of the machines may make a little noise.
Eddy current brake resistance system
There is this third type resistance system sometimes found in the elliptical machines. This is the best resistance system available. Likewise, it is a bit expensive. But still, it offers the smoothest and quietest resistance system available.
Eddy current brake system has a complex mechanism. So without giving a full description of it, I am giving you simply some info to understand it. It works with a magnet to create eddy current which is later used to manipulate the movement of the flywheel.
Flywheel
The flywheel one of the most important components of this type of exercising equipment. A flywheel is the weighted spherical wheel situated at either at the front side of the elliptical or at the backside of the elliptical.
This is why the elliptical machines are divided into two categories based on the position of their flywheel.
Front drive elliptical
The front drive elliptical happens to have the flywheel at the front side of the machine. This type of elliptical machine has a stronger design than others.
However, the front drive elliptical has some throwbacks. A major one of them is shorter strides. If you do not know what the stride is in the elliptical machines, well, I have written about them next. For now, just know that the front drive elliptical has a shorter stride length than the rear drive elliptical.
As a result of short stride, the front drive elliptical tends to push upwards a little. But it is not a problem as long as you do not live in any cave that has a low ceiling.
Rear drive flywheels
You can easily guess from the name what this type of elliptical is. They have the flywheel at the back side of the machine. And they have longer stride length. So if you are looking for an elliptical that has longer stride length then this type of elliptical are a go for you.
As the flywheel is at the back and stride length is more, the size of the elliptical becomes more space occupying than the other elliptical. So if you live in any small place or if you have a small space to make room for an elliptical machine, then it might get difficult for you.
Stride length
The stride length is one of the most essential features of an elliptical. Having the perfect stride length of elliptical can give you the perfect exercise with it. Similarly, if the stride length of your elliptical does not suit you then you won’t get the perfect exercise.
If you want to run then you need an elliptical with longer stride length. And if you want to perform a mild exercise with elliptical light mostly walking then a shorter stride length is good.
You might ask what the ideal range of stride length of elliptical is. Well, there is no one perfect answer. Ideal stride length not only depends on the machine but also on the user and the type of exercise he or she wants to perform with the elliptical.
For taller people, you need a longer stride. This is one of the many factors on which the comfortable stride length depends on. So I might be able to tell you an average range which might not be always correct for every user. But most of the time stride length from 15 inches to 21 inches may suit many people of average height.
Console
Well, this is a part of an elliptical that you cannot ever miss in one. NO elliptical is complete without a good console.
The console generally means the computer monitor present at the center. Depending on the price the feature of the console varies.
The elliptical machines that cost less have a normal console. Normally those consoles are of the LCD monitor and show some of the basic workout statistics such as time, speed, distance, amount of calories burned during workouts, heart pulse rate if the machine consists of heart rate sensors, etc. different metrics.
However, if you add some more money than you might get the further advanced console in your machine. Luckily, some of the elliptical machines under $500 have such features.
The advanced features include wireless connectivity with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, speakers, programs, apps, etc.
Additional features
In addition to the above mentioned things, there are still many other features found in the elliptical machines. Though they are not very essential, manufacturers still provide these features in the elliptical machine.
If they are present in your machine then very good. And if they are not present but the machine has above mentioned things and those also with updated features then you can rely on that elliptical. These are just additional bonus components and features.
Transportation wheels
One of them is the transportation wheels that come with the machine. Most of the elliptical machine; well all of the machines on our list have the transportation wheels. The transportation wheels are the two small wheels found at the bottom of the front leg. The transportation wheels make it easier for the users to move the machine from one place to another if they ever need it.
Bottle holder
Some of the big elliptical machines have a bottle holder attached to its body. The main purpose of the bottle holder is to keep a bottle that contains water or juice or any drinks to keep you hydrated when you are using the machine to perform the workout. You know how hard working out is sometimes. So the presence of the bottle holder can keep you with the machine all the time.
If there was not any bottle holder than every time you get thirsty, you have had to get off and go to the drink. So with the bottle holder, there is one less nuisance.
Media holder
Many times, we find an extra extension with the console. This extension is to keep a small media device on the elliptical. This device could be any phone, tablet, IPad or even any book or magazine.
There is a place for such devices so that the user remains entertained or can perform much online essential work. Or the user can simply browse social media while working out and spend more productive time doing other necessary works without wasting time online. Or they can watch movies or series or listen to music at that time.
If your elliptical does not have the media holder option; well there is nothing to lose as long as the machine is helping you to workout.
Stabilizer
Many of the elliptical machines now have the floor stabilizing feature. This is an extra component added with the legs of the machine. They prevent the elliptical from uneven movement and adjust their position if kept on any uneven surface.
Decision time!
At the beginning of this article, I have told you that there will be a surprise in the end. Now is the high time for that surprise.
The surprise I am talking about is- the name of the best product from the list of the best elliptical for under $500.
So let’s not make any delay and make the announcement, right?
Although this is the most expensive product on our list it is still the best choice for the best elliptical for under $500.
However, this is not all. I kind of feel that I am not giving you enough. This is why I will be giving you a second choice. If the above one does not meet your expectation then I have a cheaper one that is right next to it.
