Best Compact Elliptical For Home Use – Reviews & Buying Guide

Poor blood circulation is one of the main causes of varicose veins. This problem is usually common in the elderly. However, young are at risk too, especially those who remain seated for a long time.

Those who spend most of their time in the office are well aware of this problem. Before we used to feel some kind of itching on our legs after a long day of work. But, all that ended since we bought our first compact elliptical.

These machines help you train while you’re working. That way, blood circulation improves. Your muscles and bones become stronger as well. Today, we’ll give you a detailed buying guide to help you find the best compact elliptical for you. Here, you’ll find a top 10 list with the best-selling models on the market.

Best Compact Elliptical For Home Use – Top 10 Reviews

01 Cubii Jr. – Seated Under-Desk Elliptical

Certainly, Cubii Jr. is the most compact elliptical machine that today’s market has to offer. It fits under any table and is perfect for training while sitting. Without moving, Cubii Jr. can help you strengthen your legs and sculpt your abs.

Cubii Jr. is ergonomic and easy to use. Its unique design prevents impacts on the joints, reducing the risk of injury. There areeight different resistance levels to vary the training difficulty. This machine is easy to assemble. You just need to fix four screws to get the job done.

This elliptical machine has a digital monitor. It shows you burned calories,traveled distance, strides and RPM.

Above all, we like Cubii Jr. because it’s small, light, and easy to store. For that reason, you can take it to your workplace and no one will notice you’re using it. Cubii Jr. speeds up your heart rate and metabolism. Because of that, you’ll feel more active and full of energy during the day.

We love Cubii Jr. due to its eye-catching design and striking colors. Likewise, its ergonomic pedals are easy to move. Additionally, they’rebigger for better support. That way, your feet don’t slip while pedaling.

Cubii Jr. is a simplified and smaller version of Cubii Pro. Both models have the same number of resistance levels. Moreover, both are made of steel and plastic. But this elliptical has a digital monitor that Cubii Pro doesn’t have.

Specifications

Pros

• Portable
• Lightweight
• Easy to use
• Ergonomic
• Quiet
• Durable and resistant

Cons

• Your legs may hit the table when pedaling
• The plastic parts around the pedal may wear out over time

Final Verdict

Certainly, Cubii Jr. is the best elliptical machine for those who don’t have enough time to hit a gym. It’s compact and easy to use. You can use it at home or at your workplace. Besides, it’s quiet and won’t disturb anyone. By far, our number one recommendation.

02 Schwinn Compact Elliptical Machine

It has 16 different resistance levels to vary the difficulty of your training. Also, its built-in monitor shows you burned calories, traveled distance, speed and time. Likewise, the sensors on each handle give you an accurate measurement of your heart rate.

This machine has wide pedals to guarantee maximum comfort. Furthermore, its steel and plastic frame is sturdy and can support up to 300 lbs. Its control panel is responsive and easy to use. With the push of a button, you can vary the resistance level or try any pre-set training program.

Schwinn Compact Elliptical Machine is compatible with Explore the World app. That way, you can delight with beautiful natural landscapes while you train.

We recommend this machine because it’s easy to use and comes pre-assembled from the factory. So, you don’t have to spend time trying to understand the instructions and setting up your machine. We like its modern design that blends well with any home décor.

Certainly, the Schwinn Compact Elliptical Machine makes the training process a pleasant experience. When you use the app, you can instantly transport yourself to anywhere in the world. You choose the route and the speed. You can move slowly to enjoy the scenery or go faster to finish the journey in the shortest possible time.

Schwinn Compact Elliptical Machine is similar to ProForm Cardio HIIT Trainer.It has a lower weight capacity as well. Moreover, ProForm Cardio HIIT Trainer has more resistance levels.

Specifications

Pros

• Easy to use
• No assembly required
• Modern design
• Responsive
• Durable and resistant
• Quiet

Cons

• It requires frequent maintenance
• Expensive spare parts

Final Verdict

If you want to have fun while training, Schwinn Compact Elliptical Machine is what you need. It moves smoothly and prevents knee impacts. It’s very comfortable and the pedals guarantee optimal support as well. Besides, you can enjoy a relaxing virtual walk using the Explore the World app.

03 ProForm Cardio HIIT Trainer

Certainly, this elliptical machine is the best choice for tech freaks. ProForm Cardio HIIT Trainer uses a magnetic resistance to control the difficulty level. In total, there are 24 different resistance levels. Its 10-inch vertical stride path gives you freedom of movement. It maximizes burned calories.

ProForm Cardio HIIT Trainer is compatible with the iFit app. So, you have access to an extensive gallery of tracks and training sessions. It uses Bluetooth technology to control different functions from the control panel.

Its padded pedals to cushion high impacts and prevent injury. The pedals are oversized to give you maximum comfort and stability.

We recommend this machine due to the great variety of functions it has. It moves smoothly as well. Its magnetic resistance prevents friction between metal parts. That way, there’s less wear and noise.

What we like most about ProForm Cardio HIIT Trainer is its sturdy design. The whole structure is made of steel. It withstands high impacts without bending or breaking. Furthermore, the handles are thick to guarantee optimum grip. This machine takes up half the space of a conventional elliptical.

ProForm Cardio HIIT Trainer is the strongest model on our top 10 list. It exceeds the maximum weight capacity of Schwinn Elliptical Machine by 25 lbs. Also, this model has 8 more resistance levels. However, both have one thing in common – they have their own apps.

Specifications

Pros

• Quiet
• Smooth movement
• Easy to use
• Responsive control panel
• Compact
• Durable and resistant

Cons

• Expensive spare parts
• Requires frequent maintenance

Final Verdict

ProForm Trainer has more features than most elliptical machines on the market. It’s quiet and moves smoothly without much effort. Additionally, its padded pedals prevent knee and back injuries.

04 Stamina Inmotion Elliptical

This is another compact model that you can use while sitting on your couch. If you don’t have time to go to a gym, you can use this machine at your workplace without trouble. It’s quiet, so nobody will notice you’re using it.

Its adjustable tension dial lets you vary the training difficulty with a twist of the wrist. Its textured pedals are wide to provide optimum comfort and stability. For that reason, you won’t accidentally slip if your sweat wets the pedals.

Stamina Inmotion Elliptical is made of steel and can withstand up to 250 lbs. This machine accelerates the heart rate and your metabolism. It helps to improve blood circulation in the legs as well. So, if you have varicose veins, this product can erase them forever.

We recommend this elliptical machine because it’s compact and you can use it in small spaces. Hence, it’s great for people living in a small apartment and other similar properties. It has a built-in monitor that shows you valuable information about your performance.

Another feature we personallyappreciate is its eye-catching design. Moreover, it’s light and easy to carry. You can take it with you to train whenever you want. Its padded pedals move smoothly, preventing muscle and joint injuries.

Stamina Inmotion Elliptical is quite similar to Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872. Both models have a digital monitor and similar design. But, this unit is slightly stronger than most of its counterparts.

Specifications

Pros

• Compact
• Lightweight
• Easy to use
• Space saver
• Quiet
• Durable and resistant

Cons

• The mobile parts may wear out due to friction
• It requires frequent maintenance

Final Verdict

If you don’t have enough room, you certainly need to try this product. It’s quiet, compact and easy to use. It keeps the blood flowing to prevent varicose veins and other health problems. Besides, it strengthens your legs, glutes and abdomen.

05 Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902

It is foldable and takes up less space than a conventional elliptical. Also, its steel structure is sturdy and can withstand up to 220 lbs. This machine has 30 inches of horizontal stride to simulate a light walk. Because of that, it’s perfect for those with joint problems.

Its LCD monitor shows you burned calories, traveled distance and time. This machine has an abdominal pad. It helps you maintain a good posture during training. Additionally, the textured pedals guarantee optimum grip to prevent accidental slips.

SF-E902 is made entirely of heavy-duty steel for maximum durability and strength.

We like this elliptical because it takes up very little space and is very easy to store. You can store it inside a closet or lean it against the wall. Furthermore, it’s quiet and moves smoothly. You can train whenever you want without disturbing your neighbors with the noise.

We like this machine due to its sturdy design. The steel tubes are thick and won’t bend easily with high loads. The external silver paint coating guarantees maximum resistance against rust. Hence, sweat and high humidity levels won’t affect the strength of the structure.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 is similar to Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905. Both products seem the same on the outside. On the other hand, this model is slightly smaller and lighter.

Specifications

Pros

• Compact
• Lightweight
• Easy to use
• Easy to carry
• Durable and resistant
• Smooth movement

Cons

• It requires frequent maintenance
• It may wobble during use

Final Verdict

Certainly, SF-E902 is another good purchase option for those with space problems. It’s foldable and takes up much less space than a conventional elliptical. Its steel structure is robust as well. Hence, it withstands heavy duties without breaking or deforming.

06 Cubii Pro – Seated Under-Desk Elliptical

Cubii Pro is compact and its low step pattern makes it perfect to use under a table or desk. Additionally, its syncs with your smartphone to show you valuable information. Likewise, it’s quiet. For that reason, nobody will notice that you’re using it.

This compact elliptical is perfect for people who don’t have time to exercise. You can take it to your workplace and burn some calories while sitting. This machine helps speed up your metabolism and heart rate as well.

You can vary the resistance level by turning a knob. That way, you can increase the difficulty level to improve your muscular endurance. Cubii Pro is made of plastic and steel. Furthermore, the textured pedals are oversized to prevent accidental slips.

We recommend this elliptical for all those living in a small apartment. Moreover, its sturdy structure withstands heavy use without breaking.

Another thing we like about this product is its low stride height. This means less risk of hitting your knees while you’re using it under a table. Additionally, it moves smoothly, preventing excessive stress on muscles and joints. Besides, it’s lightweight and easy to carry. Hence, you can take it with you everywhere effortlessly.

Cubii Pro is a more advanced version of Cubii Junior. Both machines have the same basic functions and number of resistance levels. But, Cubii Pro doesn’t have a digital monitor. Instead, it uses Bluetooth technology to send data to your smartphone or tablet.

Specifications

Pros

• Compact
• Easy to carry
• Easy to use
• Ergonomic
• Modern design
• Quiet

Cons

• Expensive
• The base may slip on smooth surfaces

Final Verdict

Certainly, Cubii Pro is another compact elliptical you should try. If you don’t have time to go to a gym, this machine takes the gym to your home or workplace. Also, it’s quiet. Because of that, you don’t have to worry about annoying noises.

07 Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical

SF-E905 is compact and takes up less space than a conventional elliptical. It has 8 resistance levels to gradually vary the difficulty of your training. In addition, its magnetic resistance prevents friction between metal parts. So, it moves smoothly without unpleasant noises.

The handles are rubber-coated to guarantee maximum stability and grip. The textured pedals prevent accidental slips in case your sweat wets the surface. This machine has a useful digital monitor. It shows you valuable information about your performance. It has transportation wheels as well.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical has pulse sensors on each handle. That way, you can monitor your heart rate and stop when necessary. Hence, this is the perfect elliptical machine for people with heart disease.

The most impressive feature of this product is its ergonomic design. Its curved handle bars better adapt to body movement. Furthermore, this machine takes up half the space of a conventional elliptical. Because of that, it’s perfect for people with space problems.

We like Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical because it’s quiet and easy to use. For that reason, you can train at night without risk of disturbing anyone with noise. Its magnetic resistance reduces friction and extends the useful life.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 is similar to Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902. But this model is bigger and heavier.

Specifications

Pros

• Quiet
• Compact
• Easy to use
• Easy to transport
• Smooth movement
• Durable and resistant

Cons

• Difficult to assemble
• Not suitable for people taller than 6 feet

Final Verdict

SF-E905 Elliptical has a shorter stride pattern to emulate a light walk. Likewise, it’s compact and easy to carry. Additionally, its transportation wheels are smooth to prevent floor scratches. Definitely worth your consideration.

08 EFITMENT Magnetic Elliptic to Machine Trainer

EFITMENT Magnetic Elliptical Machine has a small footprint and is ideal for home use. Moreover, its leg stabilizers prevent vibration and movement on uneven surfaces. In addition, this machine has 8 different resistance levels. It moves smoothly, preventing muscle and joint injuries.

EFITMENT Magnetic has a responsive digital monitor. It shows you speed, traveled distance, burned calories and time. Besides, it has pulse sensors on each handle to provide accurate information in real time. Under the monitor there’s a plastic holder for your tablet or smartphone. That way, you stay connected during your workout routine.

EFITMENT Magnetic Elliptic has oversized pedals to guarantee maximum comfort and stability. Also, its rubber-coated surface prevents accidental slips during use. Its plastic wheels facilitate transportation and prevent floor scratches.

We recommend this machine for people living in studios, apartments and small rooms. You can store in a closet or just lean it against the wall. Furthermore, it’s very quiet, so the noise won’t disturb anyone. Likewise, it doesn’t require maintenance because there’s no friction between its moving parts.

We like EFITMENT Elliptical because its control panel is responsive and easy to use. With the push of a button you can choose between different training programs. Its plastic holder allows you to check your text messages or watch a video while you train.

EFITMENT Elliptical is similar to Sunny Health & Fitness P8300 in terms of resistance. However, both models are completely different in design. Moreover, the pedals are bigger in this case.

Specifications

Pros

• Smooth movement
• Quiet
• Compact
• Easy to carry
• Easy to transport
• Durable and resistant

Cons

• It requires frequent maintenance
• The pedals may get stuck during use

Final Verdict

EFITMENT Magnetic Elliptical is the perfect machine for those living in small apartments. It’s very quiet and moves smoothly. Additionally, its short stride pattern prevents muscle and joint injuries.

09 Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical SF-E3872

Health & Fitness SF-E3872 strengthens your bones and muscles without leaving your couch. It’s ideal for people with busy lives. You can easily take it to your workplace and train without anyone noticing. It’s perfect for people with varicose veins, because it reactivates blood circulation.

Its textured pedals are wide, preventing accidental slips during use. In addition, its low stride pattern prevents damage to muscles and joints. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872 is easy to carry and has a plastic handle to make things easier. It has a digital monitor. It displays valuable information about your performance in real time.

You can choose between 8 different resistance levels. Hence, you can vary the training difficulty at your convenience.

We like SF-E3872 because it has a unique design, very different than any other product on this list. Besides, its handle lets you lift the machine with a single hand. The stride pattern is low, so there’s no risk of accidental bumps on your knees when you use it under the table.

We recommend this product due to its sturdy design. Its mobile parts are thick, made with the best steel. Also, there’s no friction between metal parts, guaranteeing a longer useful life.

In terms of design, SF-E3872 is similar to Stamina Inmotion Elliptical. Both products have a digital monitor and a knob to control resistance level. This model has a lower weight capacity as well.

Specifications

Pros

• Lightweight
• Compact
• Smooth movement
• Easy to use
• Modern design
• Easy to carry

Cons

• The pedals may wobble during use
• It may emit an unpleasant sound after months of use

Final Verdict

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872 is a great elliptical for training at your workplace. It’s compact and you can hide it under your desk. Likewise, no one will notice you’re using it. Best of all, it helps you get rid of those horrible varicose veins on your legs.

10 Sunny Health & Fitness P8300 Pink Magnetic Elliptical Trainer

Sunny Health & Fitness P8300 is specially designed for women. It’s compact, lightweight and easy to use. If pink is your favorite color, you’re certainly going to love its design. Besides, it’s one of the lightest elliptical machines on our top 10 list. Because of that, you can easily transport it without much effort.

You can vary the resistance to gradually increase the training difficulty. In addition, its 11-inch stride length prevents excessive stress on muscles and joints. This machine has a digital monitor. It shows you valuable information about your performance in real time.

Additionally, it has a pair of floor stabilizers to prevent unwanted movements. Its magnetic resistance prevents annoying noises and friction between moving parts. So, frequent lubrication is unnecessary.

Above all, what we like most about this machine is its design. At first glance it looks like the perfect workout machine for a Barbie doll. Also, it has wheels for easy transportation. The steel structure isn’t that thick in contrast to other models on this list. However, it does provide enough resistance to withstand heavy duties.

It’s evident that the pedals aren’t made for men. They’re considerably smaller to fit a woman’s feet. Both pedals are rubber-coated to prevent slips and cushion high impacts.

Sunny Health & Fitness P8300 is quite different from the other machines on this list. In this case, the pedals are smaller and the handles are thinner. In terms of weight capacity, it’s similar to EFITMENT Elliptical Trainer.

Specifications

Pros

• Eye-catching design
• Lightweight
• Easy to use
• Easy to transport
• Durable and resistant
• Smooth movement

Cons

• It may generate annoying noises after months of use
  The drive belt requires frequent maintenance

Final Verdict

If you’re a woman and you’re looking for the best elliptical machine for you, you need to try this. It has a feminine design. It’s lightweight and easy to use. Furthermore, its pedals are smaller and lighter, perfect for a woman’s feet.

Best Compact Elliptical: Buying Guide

Compact elliptical machines are designed to emulate the movement of your feet. Nevertheless, these machines exert some resistance to provide a full-body workout. Although all the models follow the same principle, not all work the same way. Today, we’ll show you how to choose the best model according to your requirements.

1. Range of Exercises

In this case, the rule is simple. The wider the range of exercises, the better. For that reason, you have to look for a machine that gradually lets you change the resistance level. That way, you can apply more resistance while your muscles and joints become stronger.

Each new resistance level should be a challenge for you. So, it’s recommended that you test multiple machines before making a decision. More challenging models have an incline, demanding a little bit more effort.

2. Ergonomic

Above all, the best compact elliptical must adapt to the shape of your body. Each person has a different body shape as well. For that reason, you have to try different models to find the most suitable one for you.

In the case of the handles, they should provide optimal support and be rubber-coated. Multiple hand grips are the best. They let you change the position of your arms while you’re training. Likewise, good handles help you keep your torso upright all the time.

The pedals should be placed as close together as possible. If the pedals are too far apart, they’ll generate excessive stress on ankles and joints.

3. Material

In the case of compact elliptical machines, steel is the best material. The moving parts should be thicker than 1.5 mm so as not to bend or break during use. There shouldn’t be friction between metal parts. So, if you hear unpleasant noises, you should call technical service immediately.

In the same way, the bearings must be solid, completely made of steel. If you see plastic parts on the bearings, it’s better not to buy.

If the mechanism uses wheels to move the pedals, make sure they’re sturdy and have a wide footprint. Thin and small wheels tend to wear out too quickly. Moreover, their smaller contact surface makes them prone to derail.

4. Monitor & Control Panel

The images and characters showed on the monitor must be big and clear. That way, there’s less risk of tired eyes. Besides, the characters must be bright to be readable in different light conditions.

Additionally, all the buttons should be large. That way, there’s less chance that your finger misses a button while you’re training. Each button must have its corresponding label as well.

Best elliptical machines have pulse sensors on each handle. That way, you get real-time feedback about your heart rate. If you have a weak heart, this data will help you know when to stop or decrease the resistance level.

6. Safe

All kinds of moving machines have dangerous areas. These are known as entrapments and pinch points. These areas exist on compact elliptical machines. Usually they’re around the handles and pedals.

Before purchasing, it’s important to verify which areas are dangerous. If there are too many, it’s better not to buy. Whatever your decision, keep pets and young children away while you’re training.

7. Weight Capacity

Before buying, you have to know your own weight. That way, you can choose the right weight capacity for your machine. To guarantee it won’t break, make sure the machine can withstand 30% more than your current weight.

It isn’t a good idea to choose a weight capacity equivalent to your body weight. If you do that, the elliptical will always work overloaded.

8. Price

Finally, when you find the right model, it’s time to look for prices. On the Internet, you can find both new and second-hand alternatives. Choosing a second-hand machine would be a good idea if your budget is less than $200.

In order to save some extra money, it’s convenient to look for different prices. Then choose a slightly cheaper option than your total budget. In this case, choosing the cheapest option wouldn’t be the best idea. You would be risking buying a defective product.

Elliptical Benefits

Certainly, having you own compact elliptical machine at home has many benefits. Here’s a list with some of them:

• Helps you burn calories

A 30-minute workout session on a compact elliptical can help you burn up to 400 calories. It all depends on the resistance level and your body weight. Also, if you burn more calories than you consume in a day, you’ll begin to lose weight.

• Accelerates your heart rate and metabolism

Training on an elliptical helps speed up your heart rate and metabolism. When this happens, your tissues receive more oxygen and your heart becomes stronger. Likewise, toxins are flushed out of your body when you sweat.

• Reduces the impact on your joints

When you use a compact elliptical, your joints suffer less because your feet don’t lift off the pedals. Nevertheless, these machines have the same effect of high-impact exercises.

• Helps you strengthen your muscles

Using a compact elliptical machine is a full-body training. As you train, the muscles in your arms, legs, abdomen and back become stronger.

Care & Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your elliptical machine in optimal condition. Here’s a list with some maintenance tips:

• Tighten all bolts and nuts. If you don’t, the metal parts will begin to rub between each other.
• Clean the surface with a damp cloth and mild soap. The abrasive particles in the dust tend to scratch the surface.
• Periodically adjust the drive belt. Do this if the pedals are loose when the resistance level is high. Make sure to follow the procedure in the instruction manual.

Elliptical Workout Tips

Most of the time, a wrong execution of the exercises is the main cause of injury. If you don’t want that to happen to you, follow these workout tips:

• Keep your torso upright and your feet on the pedals at all times.
• Change the incline during your training session.
• Add other types of exercises to your daily routine. For example, use your elliptical for 5 minutes and then pause. Do some push-ups and then get on the elliptical again.
• Train at maximum resistance for 30 seconds. Do it 10-20 minutes after training at your usual resistance level.

It’s Time to Wrap Up

As you can see, there are many things you have to consider before choosing the best elliptical for you. Make sure each resistance level is a real challenge for you. If you don’t notice any difference when you change the level, you won’t gain muscular endurance.

Make sure to check the quality of the materials and the weld. Always choose for steel instead of plastic. Moreover, make sure the machine is safe for you and your loved ones. If you notice too many dangerous areas, it’s better not to buy.

If you carefully follow all our tips, you’ll certainly find a good elliptical machine at a good price.

FAQs

1. Which factors determine stride length?

Ans.In the case of the user, height, body weight and joint stiffness determine the stride length. In the case of the elliptical machine, the pedal configuration does the same.

2. Which are the benefits of elliptical machines?

Ans.Yes. Compact elliptical machines help you strengthen your legs, abdomen, arms and back. Besides, they’re compact, lightweight, and easy to store.

3. Do I need to call a doctor before buying an elliptical trainer?

Ans.Only if the user suffers from:

• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Arthritis

4. What is the difference between an elliptical and a stationary bike?

Ans.As the name implies, elliptical machines have an elliptical movement pattern. On the other hand, stationary bikes have a circular movement pattern. Elliptical machines help you strengthen different muscles on your upper and lower body while stationary bikes are better for burning calories and losing weight.

5. Can an elliptical help me lose belly fat?

Ans. Yes, but you need reduce your calorie consumption to see real results.

6. How do I protect the floor from scratching under my elliptical?

Ans.Placing a rubber mat under your elliptical machine will keep your floor protected.

7. Which one’s better – Elliptical or Stepper?

The elliptical is better because it works more muscles than a stepper. While the stepper only focus on the lower body, the elliptical machine works upper and lower body. Also, you burn more calories with an elliptical machine than with a stepper.