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: July 22, 2021
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Are you in the market for the best elliptical under 700? Toning your body at home doesn’t have to come at a price. You might find that hard to believe given the high cost of most home fitness equipment. But we’re here to do away with that misconception by showcasing some affordable elliptical machines. For a reasonable price, you can purchase an elliptical that’ll help you stay in shape—at home.
After having tested more than 20 models, we’ve reviewed five best brands on the market in more detail. Simply pick the right model for your needs. If you want our recommendation, consider the Horizon Fitness EX-59 which we’ve awarded the Editor’s Choice status. Its durability, quiet operation and intuitive controls are some of the reasons why we believe it to be the best of the lot. But feel free to compare it with the other brands reviewed to make your own decision.
Knowing which elliptical to buy can be overwhelming if you’re a first time buyer. That’s why we vetted the machines on our list based on features such as stride length, resistance levels, workout programs, LCD display, dimensions and weight. These specifications affect the machine’s overall effectiveness. Features of each product are explicitly stated in the comparison table provided. We’ve also included detailed reviews of all the elliptical machines plus an in-depth buying guide. We spent over 120 hours compiling this information that we’ve retrieved from reputable websites and customer reviews. Once you’re done reading the article, we’re certain you’ll know exactly which elliptical to buy. Let’s dive right into it.
"You’ll find the unit a breeze to assemble. And you can take your pick from the 10 workout programs provided. Additionally, you can set the machine to any of the 10 magnetic resistance levels depending on your fitness goal."
"With 24 exercise programs and 16 resistance levels to pick from, this versatile machine will have you in shape in no time. Besides you have the option to use the machine manually when it’s not plugged in."
"For the best price enjoy a full workout with this unit that allows you to work both your upper and lower body. You can mix up your workout by setting the unit to any one of the 8 resistance levels provided."
More features: 300 lbs weight capacity, includes device holder and rapid-charge USB port, integrated speakers, Bluetooth connection, lifetime warranty on frame, 1-year warranty on parts and labor
Firstly, we have to appreciate the quality of this elliptical despite the relatively low price tag.
Straight out of the box, you’ll find the unit a breeze to assemble. 30 minutes or less is enough to put the unit together. This is thanks to the easy-to-read installation instructions.
Moving on to operation, you can take your pick from the 10 workout programs provided. You’ll find other models with more programs, but these 10 will still suffice for most fitness needs. Additionally, you can set the machine to any of the 10 magnetic resistance levels depending on your fitness goal.
If listening to music while exercising is important to you, then you’ll find the Bluetooth functionality handy. Simply connect your device to the elliptical and stream your favorite tunes. No need to worry about your device falling off the machine as this elliptical comes with an integrated device holder to keep your SmartPhone securely in place. Plus, you won’t have to interrupt your workout session to charge your device thanks to the rapid-charge USB port provided. The trainer does come with speakers but unfortunately they aren’t very loud. But it’s not necessarily a deal breaker because you can always use your headphones as an alternative.
Switching from one program to the next is very easy because the key pads are easy to operate.
If an all-round health and fitness elliptical trainer is what you’re after, consider our Best Value pick. With 24 exercise programs and 16 resistance levels to pick from, this versatile machine will have you in shape in no time.
Still on the subject of versatility, you have the option to use the machine manually when it’s not plugged in. You don’t have to skip your workout session if you experience unexpected power outages.
The solid construction is proof that the machine is designed to last. Made of heavy duty stainless steel, you won’t be purchasing another elliptical anytime soon.
The textured foot pedals allow for ample grip and stability throughout the duration of your workout. Because of the full-motion handle bars, you can work out your entire body including your hands, back and shoulders.
Track your progress on the LED screen provided that displays your pulse rate, heart rate and calories burned to mention a few aspects.
Unfortunately setting up this unit isn’t easy. You may need to set aside three hours (maybe longer) before you can enjoy your new machine. Also, after some time, the elliptical starts inexplicably producing weird clicking noises.
Next up is our Budget Pick. If you have limited space but desperately want an elliptical, this compact trainer is the ideal space saver. And it’s easy to set up too.
Enjoy a full workout with this unit that allows you to work both your upper and lower body. You can mix up your workout by setting the unit to any one of the eight resistance levels provided.
Data to monitor your workout is displayed clearly on the LCD screen. Your pulse rate, speed, distance and calories burned are among the aspects you can track.
If you prefer working out while everyone is sleeping or watching TV, this machine is for you because it’s designed for quiet operation. Once you’re done, you can quietly move it out of the way since it has wheels for easy and smooth mobility.
This unit also features non-slip foot pedals to provide you with that much needed grip and stability.
Weighing only 80.5lb, the elliptical is considerably lighter than some of the units on our list. But you don’t have to worry about toppling over while in motion because it features leg stabilizers. Just make sure that you don’t exceed the unit’s 220lb weight capacity.
We’re only concerned with the durability of the product. Users have reported that it starts jamming up after a few months.
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
If you’re on the taller side then you’ll absolutely love the Nautilius 64 which we’ve voted as our Best Stride Length elliptical. With a 20” stride length, the nomination is clearly well deserved.
By opting for this unit you’ll have 22 workout programs and 20 resistance levels to pick from. It does weigh 165lb making it on one of the heavier models on our list. And because the machine is on the bulky side, you’ll need to make sure that you have the space for it before bringing it home.
The unit’s goal tracking ability is probably one of its most invaluable features. You can set and track your individual fitness goals using this functionality.
This is one of the few models on our list that comes with a couple of stellar features, from a high inertia drive system to a weighted fly-wheel. But there’s absolutely nothing extravagant about these features because they allow for smooth and easy-to-start-up workouts.
For such impressive features, we’re rather disappointed that the unit isn’t built to last. But if you do experience any issues with the frame or mechanical parts, make use of the 2-year and 10-year warranties respectively.
We’ll round of our list with this Exerpeutic 1000XL elliptical which we’ve voted as the Best Lightweight Model on our list. Weighing only 76lbs, you can see why. This means that you’ll find it super easy to move around where necessary.
But despite being lightweight, it’s sturdily built. Also, it has a high 300lb weight capacity. Feel free to use it daily to work out your entire body. Just pick from the 12 workout programs and 8 resistance levels provided.
You’ll find the unit very easy to set up. And it helps that the instructions are simple to read.
The manufacturer included a mat with the unit to help minimize noise. But even so, the elliptical is extremely quiet during operation. This is because the machine comes with a balanced flywheel and V-belt for quiet operation. But you can still go ahead and make use of the mat to protect your floors from damage.
Though the unit operates quietly, we can’t say the same about its smoothness. Users have noted that it tends to operate more smoothly when you’re pedaling backwards rather than forwards.
You’ll appreciate the large LCD screen which allows you to read the information displayed with clarity. The unit also comes with a target zone monitor that helps you track your heat and pulse rate during your workout. This way you don’t over-exert yourself.
Unfortunately, the elliptical may arrive with missing parts. Some users have noted that it arrived without screws and bolts.
Why did it make our list?
Easy to assemble
Quiet operation
Lightweight
What is not ideal about it?
May arrive with missing parts
Forward peddling not smooth
Things to Consider
The reviews are in and it’s time to make your pick. The beauty of this section is that it solely serves to help you make an educated decision regarding your purchase. It details which features you need to keep in mind when selecting your elliptical plus the answers to a few frequently asked questions.
Features to consider while choosing an elliptical under 700
Don’t get carried away by the bells and whistles on these products. Many elliptical machines come with a wide range of features designed to lure buyers. Keep your eye on the prize by comparing features that actually count and will help you achieve your fitness goal. We list them below.
Stride Length, Resistance Levels and Workout Programs
We’ll have you know that the stride length is among the most important specifications on an elliptical. It generally refers to the length of the product’s pedals when they’re at their farthest distance from each other. Different brands have varying stride lengths which can range from 13” to 22”.
The ideal stride strength is largely determined by your height.
If you’re on the shorter side, pick a unit with a small stride length. It follows that taller people will need a unit with a long stride length such as the Nautilus E614 which as a 20” stride length. But to play it safe (and if you’re not the only person who’ll be using the machine), rather opt for an elliptical that comes with adjustable stride lengths. This way everyone is accommodated. Where possible try out the machine first to be absolutely certain.
After stride length, you need to consider the resistance levels. How many resistance levels does the unit have?
The levels give an indication regarding the amount of effort that you need to exert on the foot platform to complete a pedal cycle.
Low resistance levels are ideal for moderate exercise. But if you want to beef up those muscles or burn calories faster, high resistance levels are the way to go. Just be sure not to overdo it. The resistance levels on the unit you pick will depend on your fitness goal. Again, the Nautilus E614 leads the pack with a total of 20 resistance levels which is the highest number compared to the other units on our list.
How many workout programs does the machine offer? Cardio, fat-burn and incline intervals are a few options that come with elliptical trainers. Pick a machine that has the programs you need to help you achieve your goal. The Sunny & Fitness Elliptical has 24 workout programs making it the machine with the highest number of programs on our list.
Weight Capacity
Elliptical machines designed for home use usually have a smaller weight capacity compared to their commercial counterpart. But it’s extremely important to consider the weight capacity of the machine before making a purchase.
Most elliptical machines can accommodate body weight ranging from 220-400lb (220lb being for lightweight users and the latter for heavier people).
The Horizon Fitness and Exerpeutic 1000XL models have the highest weight capacity of 300lb compared to the rest of the units. If you want a machine with a lower weight capacity, the Efitment Magnetic Elliptical machine which has a 220lb weight capacity will suffice. Make sure that you pick an elliptical that can accommodate your body weight with ease.
LCD Display
Thankfully most modern elliptical machines come with an LCD display screen. This is evidenced by how all the models on our list feature an LCD screen. Otherwise how else will you keep track of your fitness goals? The screen displays crucial information during your workout such as the number of calories burned, heart rate and pulse rate. But not just any LCD screen will do. Make sure that it’s easy to read and displays information clearly. If you can get a screen with a backlight that’ll definitely come in handy if you’re using the machine in low-light situations. Other manufacturers take it a step further by including a screen designed for dual track LCD display. The Nautilus E614 is one such example that comes with this feature.
Dimensions and Weight
Generally, elliptical machines designed for home use are usually smaller and more compact than those found in your local gyms. But it’s still important to consider the weight of the machine as it largely affects portability. Will you be moving the unit around from one room to the next or will it be stationed in one position? If you’ll be moving the elliptical around, then purchasing a smaller unit such as Exerpeutic 1000XL elliptical which weighs only 76lb will make the task much easier. You’re likely to have a hard time dragging around the Horizon Fitness model which weighs 187lb making it the heaviest on our list.
Also, consider the dimensions after assembly in relation to available space. Do you have limited room? Opt for a small unit such as the Efitment Magnetic Elliptical that won’t further cramp up your space. If you have more space to work with, then feel free to purchase a larger model like the Horizon Fitness EX-59.
Adjustable Incline
To get the most out of your workout, picking an elliptical that features an adjustable incline is recommended. This way you can add variety to your routine as you target different muscle groups at any given time. Monotonous workouts can quickly get boring. An elliptical machine with this feature will certainly spice things up and enhance your motivation.
Quiet Operation
A well designed elliptical allows for smooth and quiet operation. And that’s regardless of the intensity levels at which you’re operating the machine. A noisy machine interferes with your background music (if you have any) and it’s downright annoying for you & people nearby. The Horizon Fitness elliptical is one of the quietest models on our list.
Extras
We’re certainly not keen on purchasing elliptical trainers that have numerous features that offer no real value. However, there are a few extra features that we consider to be very useful and well worth the additional cost of the unit such as the following:
Bluetooth Connectivity: Exercise is always better with a little background music or even your favorite series playing on the TV in front of you. If that’s how you imagine your exercise on your elliptical to be, then pick one that allows for Bluetooth Connectivity like the Horizon Fitness EX-59. This way you can connect your device to the machine and listen to your favorite playlist while you work out.
Built-in speakers: By purchasing an elliptical with built-in speakers, you’ll significantly enhance your workout experience making it more fun and engaging.
Device holder: Where will you place your device, you might ask? Opting for an elliptical with a device holder such as the Sunny Health & Fitness elliptical will take care of your device handling concerns.
USB charging port: Other models like the Horizon Fitness EX-59 include a rapid USB charging port so you can keep your device charged up.
Mat: Some manufactures even include a fold mat with the unit. The Exerpeutic 1000XL is one such example that comes with this mat. The mat is designed to minimize noise and protect your floors from friction caused by the machine during use.
Wheels: Wheels on an elliptical are particularly valuable when you have to move the machine around. The task is certainly made a whole lot easier. You definitely won’t be struggling to move your Efitment Magnetic Elliptical machine around since it features wheels.
Non slip foot pedal: Grip and balance while you pedal away are crucial to avoid slipping from your elliptical. The manufacturers of the Sunny Health & Fitness elliptical understand this which is why they incorporated non-slip foot pedals on the machine.
Cooling fan: A fan to wick the sweat away will definitely come in handy if you’ve been training on your elliptical for hours.
Bottle holder: Of course a unit that has provision for your water bottle is always appreciated. You won’t have to take frequent water breaks to and from the kitchen.
Price
As previously stated, all elliptical trainers on our list are below 700, and there are even cheaper options, such as ellipticals under 600 or 500. But of course, you need to pick a product that suits your budget. How much are you willing to spend? Naturally, elliptical machines with a higher price tag come with more features, as, for example any of the best elliptical under 1500 options. Also, you don’t have to worry about sacrificing important factors such as quality, performance and durability. The afore-mentioned might be the biggest trade-off to purchasing a cheaper unit. But always make sure that you pick a unit that has the features you need and will use. This way you don’t have to pay more than you need to for unnecessary features.
Warranty
Product malfunctions aren’t uncommon even with elliptical machines. Having your new unit break down a few months after purchase can certainly be disheartening. That’s even more so if the product isn’t covered by any warranty whatsoever. To avoid this kind of disappointment, pick a machine that’s covered by a reasonable warranty period. Besides, a warranty on a product is a clear indication of how confident the manufacturer is in that particular unit. Also, determine if the warranty covers mechanism only, machine parts or just the frame? Always read the fine print to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Yes, you can. Pedaling forwards essentially targets your glutes and hamstrings. On the contrary, pedaling backwards will significantly help you not only improve your elliptical posture but also engage your core. Just bear in mind that it should be done for short periods of time and also as a way of resting certain muscle groups that are otherwise engaged during forward pedaling.
In this case, you’ll need to measure your step-on height on the machine which refers to the number of inches you’ll be off the ground. Add your height plus an extra 2-3” to accommodate when you’re moving up and down the machine. The overall measurement should give you an indication of whether the elliptical is suitable for your ceiling height.
Our Verdict
So, which elliptical from our recommendations are you buying? Is it the Horizon Fitness EX-59 model which we’ve voted our Editor’s choice? This is the product to pick if you want a sturdy and high performance unit that’s easy to set up. Plus, it’s the only unit on our list that has Bluetooth Connectivity.
Alternatively, you can opt for the Sunny Health & Fitness model which we’ve voted as our Best Value Pick. It has the highest number of workout programs (24). It’s also the only model that can also be used in manual mode.
Maybe you’d rather opt for our Budget pick: the Efitment Magnetic Elliptical machine. The unit weighs only 80.5lb making it lightweight and easy to move around when necessary. It’s designed for quiet operation and features leg stabilizers to provide stability. In your opinion, which model is the best elliptical under 700 dollars?
