Compact Ellipticals

Jeffrey Acevedo
14 min readMay 28, 2024

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Get ready to embrace a healthier lifestyle with our expertly curated roundup of compact ellipticals! In this article, we’ve gathered the top picks for those who want to make the most of their limited space. We’ve taken care of the research, so you can enjoy the benefits of these efficient, fitness-boosting machines without any hassle.

The Top 9 Best Compact Ellipticals

  1. Stamina Portable Compact Elliptical Trainer — Black — Experience the benefits of low-impact cardio with the Stamina InMotion E1000 Elliptical Trainer — Black, a compact and lightweight option perfect for home or office use, while burning similar calories as jogging without the risk of injury.
  2. GUGTTR Compact Quiet Under Desk Elliptical Exerciser — Get a quiet and compact leg workout with the GUGTTR Electric Seated Elliptical, featuring 12 adjustable speeds and a display monitor for a low-impact cardiovascular exercise.
  3. Smart Foldable Compact Elliptical with iFIT Training Experience — Experience advanced fitness with the NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical, featuring iFIT coaching, compact design, and powerful resistance levels.
  4. Xterra Fitness FS1.5 Compact Elliptical Trainer — Experience a premium and smooth workout with the Xterra Fitness FS1.5 Elliptical, offering a compact design and dual-action motion featuring a 17.6 lbs flywheel system.
  5. Body Champ Compact 3-in-1 Elliptical Trainer — The Body Champ 3-in-1 Trio Trainer combines a cardio elliptical, upright bike, and recumbent bike into one convenient, easy-to-use solution for a powerful, versatile workout.
  6. Silent Magnetic Elliptical: Compact, LCD-Included Home Gym — Experience silent and effective home elliptical training with HASIMAN’s magnetic resistance machine, featuring an LCD monitor, phone and iPad holder, comfortable 17.71-inch pedals, and adjustable resistance to accommodate your fitness journey.
  7. Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine: Space-Saving Fitness Solution — The Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine offers a low-impact, full-body workout with a 18" stride and streamlined console, perfect for those with limited space and seeking convenience.
  8. VIBESPARK Compact Elliptical Trainer with Heart Rate Sensor — Transform your home into a personal gym with the VIBESPARK Elliptical Machine — a compact, smooth, and quiet solution offering multiple resistance levels and a heart rate sensor for an efficient and convenient workout experience.
  9. Sole E25 Compact Elliptical Machine — Introducing the 2023 Sole E25 Elliptical, a high-quality elliptical designed with top-notch features and expert collaboration, offering an affordable solution for achieving your fitness goals while reducing stress on your body.

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Reviews

Stamina Portable Compact Elliptical Trainer — Black

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The Stamina InMotion E1000 Elliptical is a compact and lightweight fitness machine that’s perfect for burning calories and strengthening your legs during low-impact workouts. With an adjustable tension control knob and resistance levels of up to ten, you can customize your training experience to meet your fitness goals.

The durable steel frame and wheels make it easy to use in any space, even on carpets, while the backlit LCD console gives you valuable workout data at a glance. However, some users have complained about a squeaky pedal and inaccurate distance tracking.

Despite these minor issues, the Stamina InMotion E1000 Elliptical provides an efficient way to keep you in motion and achieve your cardio goals.

GUGTTR Compact Quiet Under Desk Elliptical Exerciser

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The GUGTTR Under Desk Elliptical has been my go-to tool for staying active at work. This compact, quiet exerciser has made my work environment a bit more exciting and helped improve my cardiovascular health without being a distraction to my colleagues.

I particularly love its anti-slip pedals that ensure a sturdy and safe workout. The device features 12 adjustable speeds, allowing me to vary my intensity for a more dynamic exercise routine. It’s easy to use and perfect for those who want a low-impact workout.

However, I do miss a display monitor on the device itself, making it necessary to occasionally refer to the attached remote control to adjust the speed. Overall, the compact size and ease of use make this a terrific addition to any small workspace.

Smart Foldable Compact Elliptical with iFIT Training Experience

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The NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical is a high-quality, space-saving fitness device that offers a variety of features to help you achieve your workout goals. The compact design allows for easy storage after use, making it ideal for smaller homes or workout areas. With an 18 lb effective flywheel and adjustable stride length, you can enjoy a smooth and efficient workout experience. The vertical space-saving design and 0 to 10-degree power-adjustable incline provide versatility and customization to your fitness routine.

Adorned with convenient features such as adjustable oversized pedals, EKG grip pulse, and a water bottle holder, the NordicTrack SE7i Elliptical comes ready to use out of the box. The user-friendly upper body grips and backlit display offer optimal comfort and performance during your workout. And with IFit Coach Ready integration, you’ll have access to an extensive library of on-demand workouts, live training options, and personalized fitness coaching to help you achieve your best results.

While the NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical is a robust and reliable fitness device, it does have some limitations. Its folding mechanism, while convenient, can require additional strength and care during folding and unfolding. Additionally, the iFit app, while functional, may not meet the same standards as dedicated fitness apps on some devices. However, these drawbacks do not outweigh the overall value and performance of the NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical, making it a top choice for those seeking a versatile and efficient home fitness solution.

Xterra Fitness FS1.5 Compact Elliptical Trainer

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As someone who recently started using the Xterra Fitness FS1.5 Elliptical Machine, I have to say it’s a pretty impressive piece of equipment. There’s no denying that it’s sturdy and well-built, providing a smooth and comfortable ride during my daily workouts.

One of the standout features for me is the flywheel system, which has greatly contributed to the overall fluid motion the elliptical offers. The 17.6 lbs flywheel is a nice touch, providing that extra bit of resistance for an even better workout. The 14-inch stride length is also a great plus, especially for users like me who appreciate a more natural movement.

However, there are a few points I’d like to highlight that might be of concern for potential buyers. The first one is the assembly process. If you’re new to this, like I was, you might find it a bit intimidating. The process took several hours, which is longer than I expected. But once it was all done, the feeling of accomplishment was well worth it.

The second point involves the seat. It took quite a bit of effort to make it slide forward and backward initially. After some investigation, I discovered it was due to a lack of lubrication. With a good spray of silicone, everything started working smoothly, but this could be a turnoff for some users.

Despite these small issues, I’m still quite happy with my purchase. The Xterra FS1.5 Elliptical Machine offers a fantastic workout experience and, for the price point, it delivers a lot of value. It’s not perfect, but it certainly gets the job done and has become a fixture in my home fitness routine.

Body Champ Compact 3-in-1 Elliptical Trainer

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I’ve been using the Body Champ 3-in-1 Trio Trainer for a few weeks now, and I must say it has been a game-changer for my home workouts. The versatility of having an elliptical, upright cycle, and recumbent cycle all in one machine is fantastic — it saves space and gives me a variety of exercise options. One feature I particularly love is the magnetic resistance control, which allows me to easily adjust the intensity of my workout.

However, there were a couple of downsides to my experience. Firstly, assembling the machine took longer than expected, and I found it a bit challenging to figure out how to attach the tension wire. Secondly, the seat can be quite uncomfortable, especially during longer workouts. Despite these drawbacks, I appreciate the convenience of having three different cardio machines in one compact package, and overall, I’m happy with my purchase.

Silent Magnetic Elliptical: Compact, LCD-Included Home Gym

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I recently tried out the Elliptical Machine for Home Use, and I have to say, it’s a decent workout companion. One of the best features is its silent operation, thanks to the magnetic resistance system. The adjustable resistance levels are convenient and easy to switch, keeping my workout challenging and engaging.

However, there were a few downsides. The LCD monitor’s display is quite small and not as clear as I would have liked. While the iPad holder is a nice feature, it seems a bit flimsy and not very secure, causing me to be a bit cautious while using it.

In terms of stability, the machine is still a bit wobbly, even when leveled, which might be an issue for some users, particularly those using it on uneven surfaces. Overall, despite its shortcomings, the Elliptical Machine for Home Use offers a relatively smooth and quiet workout experience, making it a decent option for those looking for an affordable, compact workout solution at home.

Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine: Space-Saving Fitness Solution

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The Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine is a great addition to any home gym, bringing better health into your life while taking up minimal space. Designed specifically for those with limited workout space, this elliptical offers all the benefits of larger ellipticals in a smaller package. With an 18" stride contact and Bluetooth heart rate, it delivers a low-impact cardio workout that is both convenient and comfortable. The Schwinn 411 Elliptical features a streamlined console and is easy to set up and store, making it a perfect choice for those who prioritize ease of use.

This compact elliptical offers a quiet and smooth performance, keeping you focused on your workout rather than being distracted by loud noises. While the height, length, and width dimensions make it ideal for small spaces, users may find the handle attachment slightly annoying as the wheels occasionally lift off the rail when going too fast. Overall, the Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine is a quality build, easy to use, and provides a comfortable experience for users looking to incorporate exercise into their daily routine.

VIBESPARK Compact Elliptical Trainer with Heart Rate Sensor

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I recently got my hands on the VIBESPARK Elliptical Machine and decided to make my home a personal gym. I must say, it’s a solid machine with multiple levels of resistance to give you a versatile workout experience. The LCD screen displays essential exercise data and is easy to operate. It’s also equipped with a heart rate sensor, which is truly convenient.

However, I did come across a couple of issues that I need to address. Firstly, I faced difficulty while assembling it, as some screws were stripped or didn’t fit properly. I also had to figure out how to unfold the traction wire from the frame before assembling the front pole. These minor hiccups could have been avoided with better instructions.

Despite these minor setbacks, the elliptical proved to be a sturdy and efficient workout machine. It’s easy to move around and takes up minimal space, making it perfect for small homes and offices. The smooth and quiet operation, coupled with its compatibility with Bluetooth, allows you to exercise without disturbing others in the room.

In conclusion, the VIBESPARK Elliptical Machine is a worthwhile investment for those looking for a reliable home gym solution. With proper assembly instructions and a few tweaks, it could be an even more enjoyable and hassle-free experience.

Sole E25 Compact Elliptical Machine

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Recently I added the Sole E25 Elliptical to my home gym and I must say, it has been a game-changer. One of the first things I noticed about this elliptical is its smooth motion. The foot pedals glide effortlessly, making my cardio sessions comfortable yet challenging. The 20-pound flywheel and four rear wheels on heavy-duty rails contribute to this seamless experience.

The 2-degree inward slope on the foot pedals is designed to lessen stress on my ankles and knees, which has been a welcome addition. However, I did face an issue with the stability of the machine, especially when performing higher resistance levels. The machine seemed to wobble a bit, but fortunately, this didn’t impact the overall functionality.

Another feature that caught my attention is the SOLE+ app integration. It allows me to track my progress and provides motivation to keep pushing towards my fitness goals. Additionally, the 7.5-inch backlit white display is easy to read and navigate.

The installation process was not as straightforward as I would have hoped. The instructions could have been more clear, and the parts labeling could have been improved for a smoother assembly experience. However, once I got the hang of it, the build itself was quite straightforward.

Overall, the Sole E25 Elliptical has been a valuable addition to my home gym. It offers a smooth, comfortable workout experience with unique features. While there’s room for improvement in areas like stability and installation instructions, the machine delivers on performance and functionality. I’d definitely recommend this elliptical for fitness enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly yet high-quality option.

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our buyer’s guide for compact ellipticals! This section will help you understand the key features, considerations, and general advice when choosing a compact elliptical to meet your fitness needs. Let’s get started.

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Important Features

  1. Size and Space Requirements: One of the main advantages of compact ellipticals is their small footprint. Ensure the product you choose can comfortably fit in your available space without compromising performance and ease of use. Pay attention to height, width, and length measurements when comparing models.

Adjustable Settings

  1. Resistance Levels: Many compact ellipticals offer adjustable resistance levels to help you customize your workouts. Look for a product that offers a wide range of resistance settings, so you can easily adapt the intensity of your workouts as you progress over time. This will help you avoid plateaus and maintain motivation.
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Comfort and Ergonomics

  1. Pedals and Footplates: The quality of footplates and pedals can make a significant difference in your overall elliptical experience. Look for models with adjustable footplates to accommodate different foot sizes and comfortable grips on the pedals. This will help minimize foot strain and discomfort during your workouts.

Connectivity and Tracking

  1. Heart Rate Monitoring: Some compact ellipticals feature built-in heart rate monitors, while others require a separate chest strap. If heart rate tracking is important to you, ensure the product you choose has the appropriate technology and compatibility with your desired strap or other monitoring devices.
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FAQ

What is a compact elliptical and how does it differ from a regular elliptical?

A compact elliptical is a smaller, more space-efficient version of a traditional elliptical machine. It features a more compact design, making it ideal for smaller workout spaces or apartments. The size difference doesn’t compromise the functionality, as compact ellipticals still provide an efficient cardio workout with the same smooth, low-impact motion as their larger counterparts.

Compact ellipticals typically have fewer resistance levels, limited display options, and fewer additional features, like built-in workout programs. However, they often come at a lower price point, making them a budget-friendly option for those seeking a space-saving cardio machine for home use. Ultimately, the choice between a compact and regular elliptical depends on your available space and priorities for price and features.

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What are the key features to look for in a compact elliptical?

When searching for the best compact elliptical, consider the following features: stride length, resistance levels, display options, footprint, and user capacity. A longer stride length can provide a more comfortable and natural workout, while adjustable resistance levels allow users to customize their workout intensity to suit their fitness level and goals.

Additionally, a display that shows important workout metrics, such as distance, time, and calories burned, can help you track your progress. A smaller footprint is essential for space-saving machine placement, as is a user capacity that matches your weight for maximum performance and safety. Paying attention to these key features will help you choose a compact elliptical that meets your needs and budget.

What are the benefits of using a compact elliptical?

Compact ellipticals offer various benefits, making them a popular choice for home workouts. These benefits include the following: low-impact exercise, which can be easier on the joints and bones than high-impact activities, space-saving design, making them ideal for smaller living spaces, and often available at a lower price point when compared to their larger counterparts.

Using a compact elliptical can help improve cardiovascular health, tone muscles, increase flexibility, and assist in weight management. Additionally, its low-impact nature makes it an accessible workout option for individuals with joint or mobility concerns or those looking to maintain a balance between fitness and space constraints at home.

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How do I maintain and clean my compact elliptical?

To ensure a long-lasting and efficient workout experience with your compact elliptical, follow these maintenance and cleaning guidelines: read the user manual for manufacturer-specific instructions, clean the machine after each use to prevent sweat buildup and mold growth, lubricate the moving parts regularly as recommended, and perform routine inspections to identify any wear and tear or potential issues.

Check the belts and chains for wear, and replace them if necessary. Store the elliptical in a cool and dry environment to prevent rust or corrosion. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and consult their support team if you encounter any problems or have questions about proper usage or cleaning.

Are there any portable compact ellipticals available?

Yes, there are portable compact ellipticals available on the market. These machines typically have built-in wheels and a lightweight design, making them easy to move around your home or transport between locations. Portable compact ellipticals often have lower resistance levels and fewer additional features compared to non-portable models, but they can still provide a decent workout and space-saving benefits.

When shopping for a portable compact elliptical, ensure that it meets your space requirements, offers adequate resistance levels for your fitness level, and has a sturdy build to withstand frequent moves. Also, consider factors like battery life, weight capacity, and ease of assembly and disassembly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable portable workout experience.

How does the size and weight of a compact elliptical impact its performance?

The size and weight of a compact elliptical can have a slight impact on its performance compared to a traditional elliptical. Smaller machines typically have fewer resistance levels and less advanced features because they require less space and resources for manufacturing. However, the smaller size and weight can offer several advantages, such as easier assembly and transportation, a lower cost, and a space-saving design that fits well in smaller workout spaces.

Although some users may find that a compact elliptical offers a slightly less intense workout experience than a larger, more expensive machine, there is still plenty of value to be found in these space-saving devices. As long as you choose a quality compact elliptical with a solid build and adequate resistance levels, you can still achieve an effective and enjoyable workout at home.

As an Amazon Associate we earn through qualified purchases at no cost to you!

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Jeffrey Acevedo
Jeffrey Acevedo

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