Best Budget Elliptical: Our Top Choices

If you’re looking for the final word on all the best elliptical machines, you’ve come to the right place. We can break our favorites into all kinds of different categories—and today, we’re continuing our search for the best budget elliptical machine. 

A budget elliptical is a great choice for anyone looking to add a cardio machine to their home gym without breaking the bank. Of course, you shouldn’t have to compromise on quality just to get a good deal—which is why we did the research for you and chose budget ellipticals that could bring new life to your workout program.

Ready for our fitness insights? Let’s get started!

How Did We Choose The Best Budget Ellipticals

When it comes time to choose your ideal elliptical machine, you’ll be faced with all kinds of considerations. What’s the right stride length? Are some resistance level options better than others? Which cardio machine helps you get a great elliptical workout?

Check out the criteria we used to choose our favorites:

iFIT®

If a budget elliptical machine wants to earn a spot on our list, it has to be fully iFIT compatible. iFIT is an interactive fitness program that gives you access to an ever-expanding library of global workouts, studio workouts, live events, nutrition guidance, and more so you can get even more out of your exercise equipment—including your elliptical trainer. You can track your fitness progress, customize workouts, follow along with professional iFIT trainers, and even download the iFIT app on your phone to take your workouts on the go.

Another big benefit of iFIT is that you get to save money by skipping personal trainer fees and pricey gym classes—not to mention the cost of gas driving there and back. Instead, iFIT memberships offer a convenient price for just about all your fitness needs and wants.

Workout Intensity And Quality

Another element we considered when choosing the best budget ellipticals was exercise quality. Does this gym equipment help make your cardio workout more effective and enjoyable? Is there a chance you’ll have more fun in your home gym because of this elliptical trainer? These are important factors to consider when trying to reach any fitness goal.

User-Friendliness

If an elliptical machine isn’t easy to use, you probably won’t look forward to hopping on. That’s why we considered functionality and user experience when listing the best budget ellipticals.

Price

We know some exercise equipment can be expensive, so we were careful to choose the ellipticals that fit your home gym and your budget. We also thought about financing and flexibility options offered by some of our favorite fitness companies. NordicTrack+ in particular caught our attention because you “get more and pay less” and qualify for free fitness equipment when you sign up for a 4-year iFIT Family membership.

Our Top Picks For Best Budget Elliptical

The wait is over—it’s time to find out which elliptical machines made our list! Let’s take a look:

NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 Elliptical

If you’re anything like us, you’ll fall in love with NordicTrack’s Commercial 9.9 Elliptical. Plus, thanks to NordicTrack+, you can get even more with this budget elliptical.

Features 

The first thing you notice about the Commercial 9.9 is the 7” Smart HD Touchscreen. Its vibrant colors and clear display really bring every iFIT cardio workout to life, allowing us to follow along with our favorite fitness fanatics. The two 2” digitally amplified speakers and Bluetooth® audio capabilities make our exercise playlists sound great, too.

We also appreciate the functionality. With 22 digital resistance levels and up to 20% incline, this budget elliptical machine can keep up with all kinds of different workout approaches. It’s just as friendly to beginners as it is to long-time elliptical fans, making it a great choice for any home gym.

Finally, we have to give a shout out to the oversized comfort pedals, AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan, and Soft Touch™ Upper-Body Grips. All these elements come together to create an inviting, enjoyable cardio experience.

Our Rating

As far as budget ellipticals go, we can’t find much better than the Commercial 9.9. In fact, we might even nominate this one for the coveted “best elliptical machine” title.

NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 Elliptical

Although all other gym equipment might be playing for second after the triumph of the Commercial 9.9, we’re pretty sure the NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 Elliptical can give it a run for its money. 

Features 

The Commercial 14.9 makes a statement in any home gym with its impressive 14” Smart HD Touchscreen, which makes for clear and entertaining visuals of your trainer and workouts no matter what global destination you choose to workout in. 

This fitness equipment also offers 26 digital resistance levels and up to 20% incline to increase the intensity of your workouts. You can count on your elliptical to grow with you as you try to improve your strength and endurance.  

Our Rating

The Commercial 14.9 has more than earned a shot at the “best budget elliptical” title, especially considering its impressive features. However, it has different budget considerations because the Commercial 9.9 is part of the NordicTrack+ program.

Keep in mind that the Commercial 14.9 has won some of its own accolades—like beating out the ProForm Carbon E7 in one of our head-to-head elliptical trainer comparisons.

ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT

Looking to take your cardio workout to new heights? Want to add multiple exercise options to your home gym at the price of a single machine? The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is about to become your new best friend.

Features 

“Burn calories, not cash,” the ProForm website says—and that’s a great way to describe our favorite part of the Hybrid Trainer. This fitness equipment has a two-in-one design combining an elliptical machine and an indoor bike, helping you get the best of both worlds while only paying for one machine. 

Of course, that’s not all the Hybrid Trainer has to offer. This budget elliptical also boasts a 5” High Contrast Multi-Color Display—and, better yet, it’s fully adjustable. That means you can move the console to fit your needs in elliptical mode, bike mode, and even off-machine workouts guided by your iFIT trainer.

You’ll also enjoy 16 digital resistance levels for both bike and elliptical exercise, plus a cushioned seat and oversized pedals to keep you comfortable.

Our Rating

If you want to save money by choosing a two-in-one cardio machine, the Hybrid Trainer is a great fit. This budget elliptical gives you a unique biking experience with incredible workouts and features without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

As you can probably tell, the Elliptical.com team has a soft spot for NordicTrack elliptical machines. We’ve been known to favor a ProForm machine every now and then, but NordicTrack continues to delight with its impressive tech offerings, high-quality equipment, and all kinds of special offers to explore. Additionally, with all the benefits of NordicTrack+ to think about, we’re confident you’ll find the best budget elliptical for your needs.

Want to learn more about NordicTrack ellipticals? Check out our elliptical trainer reviews to see some of our best insights.

iFIT memberships start at $15/mo. + tax, and auto-renew unless canceled in advance. Cancel at any time. Credit Card required for activation. Internet and WiFi required.

This article is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. The above information should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. Elliptical.com assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.