Adam holds a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Linguistics, and creative writing has always been his greatest passion. For more than 25 years he's been working for several well-known automobile and travel magazines as an editor and expert consultant, but when Adam started his writing path here, at WisePick, it turned out that he's capable of writing practically anything about everything.
Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known household appliances manufacturer, so no wonder he knows everything about almost everything you buy for your home.
Last updated: May 18, 2021
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Healthy living is a popular topic in modern society but not everyone has time to go to the gym. So, what do you kit out your home with that will really work without creating the risk if you hurting your joints or muscles? For many, the answer lies in purchasing an elliptical machine. This type of training equipment can give you a proper cardiovascular workout but because your feet and heals stay on the unit’s pedals, there’s very little strain on your joints. The good news is also that you can buy the best elliptical under 1500 dollars, while still getting the quality you deserve. The units in this price range are similar to those you’ll found in your local gym in many aspects, so definitely worth the money.
To help you make the best investment we compared over 50 ellipticals in various price ranges and picked the three best ones in the under $1500 price range to showcase below. There was no question that the NordicTrack NTEL71218 Commercial was the editor’s favorite thanks to its diverse workout programs and the long stride length, making it practical even for taller individuals. But you can also view an additional two models that could meet your specific needs.
We discuss weight capacity, so you know whether it will work for all your family members, as well as the inner workings; make sure you purchase quality pieces that will last long. Dimensions will help you determine if it will fit in your garage or bedroom and displays are important to serious athletes who want to track their progress. Get a realistic idea of how your cheap elliptical will serve your health goals. And don’t forget to use the comparison table, detailed reviews and buyer’s guide to garner loads of insight on this niche so you can make an informed choice for yourself. Let’s help you find the best equipment so you can enjoy a healthier lifestyle.
"With this model even just by being at home you get access to workout programs led by an expert, so it’s almost like having your own fitness instructor. You view this on a 7” screen so you’ll know exactly what to do."
"Along with 20 resistance levels the 22 programs offer you more than enough to enhance your fitness over the coming months. And the weight capacity of 300 lbs ensures that it’s suitable for anyone."
"This elliptical comes with a few perks that larger, more advanced machines can’t provide, such as being light weight. That makes it easier to move around your home without hurting yourself."
This is our editor’s choice for best elliptical under 1500 dollars because the brand used 21st century technology to give you a truly effective piece of training equipment. Even just by being at home you get access to workout programs led by an expert, so it’s almost like having your own fitness instructor. You view this on a 7” screen so you’ll know exactly what to do.
When it comes to the unit’s design, it has all the bells and whistles you expect from a high end unit, such as comfortable grips and pedals with cushioning for even more comfort. There’s even a fan to keep you cool so you can exercise for longer!
You can bet on getting the best possible workout because of the iFit integration. You get a year’s free membership and it’s totally worth it because tech will automate certain adjustments. Without you trying to plan the ideal workout the machine does it for you and we love that the elliptical mimics realistic terrains. It’s the next level of exercising inside the comfort of your own home without sacrificing quality of the workout.
This unit doesn’t offer the longest strides in the market, but 19” is still impressive. Consumers are concerned about the longevity of some parts and unfortunate noises. Hopefully the brand will improve their customer service to assist in these matters promptly. We do appreciate the extras such as a container for your water bottle and the SMR (Silent Magnetic Resistance) technology that offers some stability during your training.
More features: high speed, high inertia drive system with a perimeter weighted flywheel, 10-year warranty on frame, 2-year warranty on mechanical parts, 1-year warranty on electronics
From Nautilus you get a model that may not have as many program options as our first choice above, but it’s still worth the money since users can set personal goals through this unit’s ‘Goal Track’ feature. Along with 20 resistance levels the 22 programs offer you more than enough to enhance your fitness over the coming months.
We do like the fact that the brand created unique programs for certain scenarios, such as fitness testing and a few to hep control your heart rate. There’s something for everyone!
This model’s flywheel is perimeter weighted which benefits you because it starts up easy. You can enjoy your workout from the first second. This design also ensures your session will run smoothly, another way your joints are protected.
You’ll view your information on a fairly large LCD screen on which data is displayed in a user-friendly manner. Buttons are also large so they’re easy to use even during your workout.
This is one of the options for tall individuals since it allows a 20” stride length. Just note that this particular model offers manual inclines, not motorized ones.
Good news is that with this elliptical 300lbs capacity rating means the unit works well if used by heavier individuals.
You may have to replace components along the way, but luckily the brand provides fairly helpful customer service. One other design feature they can improve is the step platforms that start becoming uncomfortable when positioned at the peak. But overall, this is an effective unit and since it’s smaller than some other models it’s easier to find space for in cramped apartments.
Here’s our budget pick for the best elliptical under 1500 dollars, but don’t for a minute think that this isn’t a wise investment. It comes with a few perks that larger, more advanced machines can’t provide, such as being light weight. That makes it easier to move around your home without hurting yourself. It’s also not too large, so you can consider it even if you have limited space available.
Another impressive plus is the sensors on the handles that will help you monitor your heart rate. Use this along with the information on the fairly large dashboard to manage your exercise routines. Once again, the brand added large buttons for easy usage during a routine.
This is the shortest stride on our list, but 18” isn’t too bad for a budget buy. You also get 16 levels of resistance, but just note that it only offers 7 programs in total. This is a low number but mix it up with resistance options and you still get a variety of exercise options. And don’t forget that Schwinn offers you the RunSocial app connectivity even on this cheap elliptical. This gives you over 25 routes and 19 locations which you an explore with the help of a mixed reality experience.
Some users do report noise and not everyone prefers how the machine requires a certain posture—for some this feels uncomfortable. But this is up to personal preference and we’re happy to report acceptable customer service from the brand.
So, how do you know which one is the best option for your home gym? You’re making a long term investment so we want to help you spend your money wisely. Our buying guide on elliptical under 1500 dollars options will help you understand the market and make the best choice for you.
Features to consider while choosing an elliptical
There are quite a few features to consider when you read through the specs list of any expensive or cheap elliptical. Let’s walk you through these topics so you know what you’re reading about, you can compare them like an expert and pick the best model: features must suit your needs, pocket and future health goals. Here’s what you need to know.
Workout programs
Even if you’re shopping for a cheap elliptical, opt for the ones that give you multiple workout programs to choose from, as it is in the case with NordicTrack NTEL71218 Commercial.
If you’re buying one for the family’s use, pick one with diverse options to suit everyone’s preferences, but if you’re buying for yourself mostly, do your research and make sure there’s one that suits your exercise goals, so you don’t spend a lot on features you’ll never use. Some programs are meant for weight loss while others are better for cardio fitness.
It’s also helpful if your new equipment gives you access to expert guidelines, especially if you don’t know much about fitness routines yourself. As an example, look at the NordicTrack model above which offers you access to training programs, turning your session on the elliptical into a more dynamic workout.
Boredom is a major reason why many people eventually stop using their gym equipment. Thanks to technology you can luckily now enjoy a more realistic experience if the programs mimic real terrains. And remember that you don’t have to spend a lot to get the ultimate experience; even our budget pick from Schwinn offers you access to specific routes via the RunSocial app. You can even exercise with friends by connecting via the app, so your session at home doesn’t have to seem clinical and boring.
But if you feel perfectly ok with 22 workout programs, then Nautilus E614 is your pick, which is also rated as one of the best ellipticals in general.
Resistance levels
Here’s another factor that should align with your health goals: can you adjust the resistance of the pedals to receive a more challenging workout? This is also an attractive feature if you want to keep your exercise routines interesting—try something new every day so you don’t get bored.
If you want to get fitter you’ll have to change the resistance over time. So, this is a vital aspect if you’re serious about getting fit.
Research the resistance of the models so you know you won’t harm your muscles when you’re only getting started. Some machines’ resistance settings are so high even on the lower levels that you may find it difficult to manage, especially if you’re using the equipment after hurting a knee or a leg muscle.
Stride length
For this feature you need to know who will be using the elliptical. Shorter individuals will only require a 15” stride length but if someone in the family is very tall, look at models that have specs closer to 20”. You’ll see an example in the Nautilus E614 above. You need to be able to move as much as possible for optimum stretching and exercising of muscles.
Weight capacity
Once again you need to consider the user of the elliptical before you’ll know what the ideal spec is in terms of weight. For example, the weight capacity of 300lbs on the Nautilus E614 is a benefit if you need one that suits the entire family, or if your goal is to shed quite a few pounds and you’re quite over weight at the moment.
Each model is unique and the components plus the materials used will determine how much your elliptical can handle.
Pick one that can handle much more than your own weight to prevent unnecessary damage, wear and tear.
You don’t want to replace the machine because you chose the wrong specs.
LCD display
A digital console is not a given on all elliptical machines and it may not be a necessary feature for all consumers. Therefore, don’t break the bank simply to have an LCD display included. If your sports watch can track your heart rate and if you can work out your own routines based on past experience yourself, a more basic model will suffice.
But if you CAN afford it—and if you need some guidance—it does make it easier to chase your health goals if you can view data like heart rate, calories, distance and other details while you exercise. It also adds an element of fun if you can track your progress.
Remember to look for units that have user friendly displays. We also think ellipticals with larger buttons are better buys. You can easily make adjustments in a swift motion while in the midst of a routine, without losing your balance.
Dimensions
When it comes to dimensions, don’t simply consider the length and width of the unit itself; also measure how much space you have available to exercise in at home. There must be enough room for movement around your new equipment because there are many movable parts. And don’t forget about height: you need enough clearance so you don’t bump your head against a light fitting or cupboard.
Dimensions and weight
The dimensions and weight of the unit determines how easy it will be to maneuver around your home. If you have a more compact unit and it doesn’t weigh too much – such as the Schwinn 411 for example—you can push it to your exercise area every day without hurting yourself.
Dimensions and weight will also determine if your equipment is easily portable. If you have a cupboard or big enough covered area you may even be able to put it in storage so you don’t give up floor space permanently. This is essential for homeowners who have limited space and don’t want their equipment ruining the aesthetics.
Of course, if you have a home gym area allocated to equipment, this becomes less of an important aspect to consider.
Price
You can see from our examples that there are ellipticals to suit anyone’s pocket, because there are awsome ellipticals on the market to day for under 700, 600, 500 or even 200$. You don’t have to go for the most expensive unit because you may not need the thousands of programs; your main priority may be size and weight of the machine. So, the most expensive unit isn’t always the ideal buy for you.
We suggest you make a list of your main priorities based on this buyer’s guide. Then pick the best elliptical under 1500 dollars according to those features and your available budget.
Just remember to invest in quality so you don’t spend too much on fixing—or replacing—your elliptical in coming months or years.
Warranty
You’ll find all types of warranty options for ellipticals: some relevant to parts and others to labor. Read the fine print to see when you can claim from the retailer and when you need to contact the manufacturer itself.
In terms of parts, rather opt for machines that carry a warranty of at least three years or even as much as seven years. That proves you’re buying quality. When it comes to labor you’ll usually have to settle for one year warranty options.
Also make sure you purchase from brands known for excellent customer service, or you’ll have a hard time getting your warranty request fulfilled.
Cheap elliptical equipment is popular because it can give you a great cardio workout, especially if it can give you enough resistance on some of its settings. And you don’t even have to pay a lot for some of these machines! With regular exercising on ellipticals you have a greater chance of a healthy heart and lungs, all while putting your joints under very little strain. The resistance will also help muscle health and one machine can give your entire body a good workout.
Many experts believe that an elliptical machine can be a wise option for recovery times after a knee injury. You do need to exercise to strengthen muscles during recovery, but you don’t want to hurt the knee again. Thanks to the minimal amount of stress and impact on joints, ellipticals are ideal for this scenario. It also allows patients to exercise other muscle groups, ranging from quads to hamstrings and even ankles. You need to keep all these areas strong to help support your knee, making the elliptical a welcome rehab tool
Our Verdict
You can see that all our elliptical models under 1500 dollars models have features that impress. But we think you’ll agree that the NordicTrack NTEL71218 deserves first place. The vast range of options and the welcome extras such as a bottle holder make it easy to use AND keep your exercise times interesting.
The Nautilus E614 is also an attractive buy, especially for those who want the longest stride possible. It’s also more compact than our first choice, making it an easy winner if you don’t have much room available.
Don’t forget to consider the Schwinn 411. It’s a trustworthy brand and you get the benefit of the RunSocial app, even on this budget buy. The best elliptical is what suits your pocket AND your exercise needs. So, this could be exactly what you and your family require.
No matter which one you pick, enjoy a fit future—as long as you keep on using it instead of turning it into your new clothes hanger.
