Best Elliptical for Small Spaces: Top 5 Compact Machines in 2023

Fitness enthusiasts who live in small apartments or have limited space at home often have a hard time finding the right exercise equipment. Ellipticals are a great option for low-impact cardio workouts, but the traditional models can be bulky and take up a lot of space. Fortunately, there are ellipticals that are designed specifically for small spaces. These compact machines can provide a full-body workout without taking up too much floor space.

When searching for the best elliptical for small spaces, there are a few things to consider. First, the machine should be compact and easy to store. It should also be lightweight and easy to move around. Another important factor is the stride length. Since space is limited, the machine should have a shorter stride length to accommodate smaller spaces. Finally, the machine should still provide a challenging workout with adjustable resistance levels and various workout programs.

After researching and testing several models, the team has identified the top ellipticals for small spaces. These machines meet all the criteria for a great workout in a small space.

Best Ellipticals for Small Spaces

Top Picks

For those who live in small apartments or don’t have a lot of space to spare, finding a compact elliptical that can fit comfortably in your home gym can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are several options available that are designed specifically for small spaces. Here are our top picks for the best ellipticals for small spaces.

Sunny Health & Fitness Elliptical Machine

If you’re looking for an elliptical machine that’s compact and space-efficient, the Sunny Health & Fitness Elliptical Machine might be the one for you. With its adjustable handlebar and 8 levels of magnetic resistance, it provides a comfortable and customizable workout experience. However, it may not be suitable for those looking for a machine with a long stride.
Pros

• Adjustable handlebar for users of all sizes
• 8 levels of magnetic resistance for precise control
• Combines the striding motion of an elliptical cross trainer with the small footprint of an exercise stepper machine

Cons

• Short stride may not be suitable for taller users
• Some users report choppy movements when minimal effort is exerted
• May not provide a smooth elliptical motion compared to more expensive machines

The Sunny Health & Fitness Elliptical Machine is a great option for those with limited space who still want to get a full-body workout. Its compact design and adjustable handlebar make it accessible to users of all sizes, while the 8 levels of magnetic resistance provide a customizable workout experience. However, those looking for a machine with a long stride may want to consider other options, as the stride on this machine may not be suitable for taller users. Additionally, some users report choppy movements when minimal effort is exerted, and the machine may not provide a smooth elliptical motion compared to more expensive machines. Overall, the Sunny Health & Fitness Elliptical Machine is a great choice for those looking for a compact and space-efficient option for their home gym.

Sunny Health & Fitness Essentials Series Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer

If you’re looking for a compact elliptical machine that packs a punch, the Sunny Health & Fitness Essentials Series Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer is a great option.
Pros

• Adjustable resistance with 8 levels to choose from
• Digital monitor displays time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse
• Compact design makes it ideal for small spaces

Cons

• Short stride length may not be suitable for taller individuals
• Assembly can be challenging, especially with the tension cable
• Footrests can be difficult to attach in the back

The Sunny Health & Fitness Essentials Series Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer is a great option for anyone looking for a compact, yet effective workout machine. The adjustable resistance allows users to customize their workout, while the digital monitor makes it easy to track progress. However, the short stride length may not be suitable for taller individuals and assembly can be challenging, especially with the tension cable. Additionally, attaching the footrests in the back can be difficult.

Overall, the Sunny Health & Fitness Essentials Series Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer is a great investment for anyone looking to get a good workout in a small space. With its compact design and adjustable resistance, it’s perfect for apartments or small home gyms.

One thing to keep in mind is that assembly can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to putting together exercise equipment. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully and take your time to ensure that everything is put together correctly. Additionally, the short stride length may not be suitable for taller individuals, so it’s important to keep that in mind when considering this machine.

Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical Machine

If you’re looking for a compact elliptical that delivers a low-impact cardio workout, the Schwinn 411 is an excellent choice.
Pros

• Low-impact cardio workouts at a fraction of the size of other ellipticals
• Explore the world and discover more than 50 global routes that auto-adjust in real time to your speed (Explore the World subscription required)
• 16 levels of variable resistance allows you to dial the challenge up or down

Cons

• The LCD information panel is not easy to read if the lighting is low in the room
• The resistance levels can be difficult to adjust
• Some users have reported issues with the machine’s durability over time

The Schwinn 411 is a great option for anyone who wants to get a full-body workout without taking up too much space. Its streamlined console displays time, speed, distance, calories, and heart rate, making it easy to track your progress. Plus, with 16 levels of variable resistance, you can easily adjust the challenge to suit your fitness level.

The machine’s 18″ stride length is perfect for users of all heights, and the moving and fixed padded handlebars with heart rate contact grips provide added stability and comfort during your workout. And if you’re looking for a little extra motivation, the Explore the World subscription lets you virtually explore more than 50 global routes that auto-adjust in real time to your speed.

While some users have reported issues with the machine’s durability over time, overall the Schwinn 411 is a solid choice for anyone who wants to get a great workout in a small space.

Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk Trainer Elliptical Machine

If you’re short on space but still want an effective workout, the Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk Trainer Elliptical Machine is a great option.
Pros

• Simulates a slow walk or full run for a continuous motion workout
• Total body workout targets arms and legs, while also engaging abdominal muscles for increased stability and endurance
• Informative LCD monitor displays time, count, total count, calories, and scan for tracking progress

Cons

• Low impact, so don’t expect to get a high-intensity workout
• Foot plates may break due to rust on the metal welding
• More of a glider than an elliptical machine

The Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk Trainer is a great way to get a low-impact, full-body workout in a small space. The non-slip pedals allow for a continuous motion workout that simulates a slow walk or full run, and the informative LCD monitor helps track progress. However, it’s important to note that this machine is more of a glider than an elliptical, and may not provide a high-intensity workout. Additionally, some users have reported issues with foot plates breaking due to rust on the metal welding.

Overall, if you’re looking for a compact, low-impact workout machine, the Sunny Health & Fitness Air Walk Trainer Elliptical Machine is a great option.

Stamina InMotion Compact Strider

If you’re looking for a compact, affordable, and efficient elliptical for small spaces, the Stamina InMotion Compact Strider is a great choice.
Pros

• Portable and lightweight, making it easy to use in any home or office space
• Adjustable tension and display monitor to track workout stats
• Can be used sitting or standing, with forward or reverse pedaling options

Cons

• May not provide enough resistance for those looking for a more intense workout
• Some reviewers have reported quality control issues
• The included müüv app may not be useful for all users

The Stamina InMotion Compact Strider is an excellent choice for those who want to get a low-impact, joint-friendly workout without taking up too much space. It’s easy to use in any home or office environment, and its adjustable tension and display monitor make it easy to track your progress. The strider can be used sitting or standing, with forward or reverse pedaling options, making it a versatile choice for different workout styles.

One potential downside is that the resistance may not provide enough of a challenge for those looking for a more intense workout. Additionally, some reviewers have reported quality control issues, so it may be worth checking the product carefully upon arrival. Finally, the included müüv app may not be useful for all users, depending on their fitness goals and preferences.

Overall, the Stamina InMotion Compact Strider is a great choice for anyone looking for a convenient and efficient elliptical for small spaces.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best elliptical for small spaces, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Size and Space

The first and most important factor is size. When shopping for an elliptical, it’s important to measure the space where it will be used to ensure it will fit. Some ellipticals are compact and foldable, which can save even more space. Be sure to check the dimensions of the elliptical and compare them to the space you have available.

Resistance Levels

Another important factor to consider is the resistance levels. Resistance levels determine how difficult it is to pedal the elliptical. Look for an elliptical that offers a range of resistance levels, so you can adjust the difficulty to your fitness level. Some ellipticals also offer adjustable incline, which can add an extra challenge to your workout.

Programs and Features

Many ellipticals come with pre-programmed workouts and features such as heart rate monitors, calorie counters, and Bluetooth connectivity. Consider what features are important to you and your fitness goals. If you’re looking to track your progress and set goals, a heart rate monitor and calorie counter may be important. If you like to listen to music or watch TV while working out, Bluetooth connectivity may be a helpful feature.

Budget

Lastly, consider your budget. Ellipticals can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Determine what features are most important to you and what you’re willing to spend. Keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality, so be sure to read reviews and compare features before making a purchase.