An elliptical exercise machine is a great workout device for losing weight and fat. Moreover, you get a full-body workout with just one machine. However, choosing a compact elliptical machine is kind of confusing as some cheap and small machines are not that good. So, we made our list of some of the best ellipticals for small spaces that save your space for other workout equipment and give you the best bank for your money.
Some top elliptical machines for small spaces do not come with folding features; however, we did our research on many of the best small ellipticals in 2022 and came up with a list that will provide the best ellipticals for small spaces reviews & buyer’s guide in 2022.
What is the best compact elliptical?
Contents
- 0.1 What is the best compact elliptical?
- 0.2 Are compact ellipticals effective?
- 0.3 How much space do you need for an elliptical machine?
- 1 Best Elliptical for Small Spaces Reviews & Pros-Cons
- 1.1 Best Elliptical Machine for Small Spaces: SCHWINN A40 Elliptical Machine
- 1.2 Best Cardio Elliptical for small spaces: Marcy Magnetic Elliptical Trainer Cardio Workout Machine
- 1.3 Best Budget Elliptical Machine for Small Spaces: Body Champ New Elliptical Machine
- 1.4 Best Digital Elliptical for Small Spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer Series The M8
- 1.5 Best Fat Burning Elliptical for Small Spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer Series the M3
- 1.6 Best Steel Elliptical for Small Spaces: NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical
- 1.7 Best Stepping elliptical for small spaces: Sunny Health & Fitness Elliptical Cardio Machine
- 1.8 Best Magnetic elliptical for small spaces: EFITMENT Magnetic Elliptical Machine
- 1.9 Best Advanced Elliptical for Small Spaces: Sunny Health & Fitness Advanced Elliptical Machine
- 1.10 Best Portable Elliptical for Small Spaces: MaxKare Elliptical Machine
- 1.11 Type of Elliptical is Right for a Small Workout Space
- 1.12 Frequently Asked Questions:
- 1.13 Best Elliptical for Small Spaces Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a compact elliptical machine for home use without sacrificing any perks, we recommend the A40 SCHWINN. It has a compact design with a high weight capacity. Moreover, you also get 7 preset workout programs and adjustable resistance.
The machine comes with an LCD monitor, which shows your calories, time, speed, distance, and also your pulse rate. Moreover, you also get a device holder and a 17.5 inches stride. In our recommendation, it is one of the best ellipticals for small spaces on a budget.
Are compact ellipticals effective?
The effectiveness of an elliptical machine mostly depends on the stride length. Therefore, it allows more calories to burn and also ensures a perfect workout. Moreover, most compact elliptical machines have a decent stride which is effective.
However, you cannot expect to get the results that you can from a 20-inch stride from an 11 inches or 14 inches stride that you will find in compact ellipticals. Furthermore, we have a 17.5 inches stride elliptical on our list, which is a very convenient, more compact elliptical machine with slightly smaller strides that are equally effective.
How much space do you need for an elliptical machine?
We have a list of the best elliptical machines 2022 for people who want home cardio equipment without any issues with space management. Although, there are large or gym elliptical machines that can take a lot of space if you are willing to go to the full length.
However, considering home use and regular home use of the elliptical machine, then you will need approximately 8 feet by 4 feet space in your house with a 4-6 inches buffer zone for headroom. Moreover, try to leave at least 20 inches of space around the machine.
Best Elliptical for Small Spaces Reviews & Pros-Cons
Elliptical machines are great for home workouts as they are handy, give you a full-range motion, and are also compact. However, finding which suits your needs and also does not compromise your living space. That is why we came up with the list of the best ellipticals for small spaces in 2022, which will give a complete review of the best products on the market.
Best Elliptical Machine for Small Spaces: SCHWINN A40 Elliptical Machine
The SCHWINN A40 machine is one best elliptical for small spaces. It is compact, easy to move, and also lightweight. Moreover, if you have less space in your house for a higher-end elliptical machine, then you should check the A40, as you are getting advanced features that you get on the higher-end versions.
It comes with 7 preset workout programs in which 6 are profile, and 1 is a quick start. The machine has a high speed and high inertia flywheel smoother and gives a perfect workout. Moreover, you get 8 intensity level of resistance which allows you to get a more intense workout.
The A40 also comes with a large LCD console which helps track your speed, time, RPM, distance, results, and calories. Furthermore, you also get a heart rate monitoring system on the grip. The handle grip is where the heart rate sensor is, and it will automatically detect your heart rate while you are doing your cardio workouts. You also have 17.5 inches stride, which allows for a precious foot motion.
Pros:
- You get 7 preset workout programs.
- It also comes with 8 adjustable levels of resistance.
- The machine has a high inertia flywheel which provides a smooth and also quiet workout.
- It has an LCD digital monitor for tracking your progress.
Cons:
- The display has no backlit, which makes it harder to see if you are in a bright room.
Guide’s comment
“The A40 is an amazing and also compact cardio equipment for your home which provides exact foot motion with a previous reading on your progress.”
Best Cardio Elliptical for small spaces: Marcy Magnetic Elliptical Trainer Cardio Workout Machine
The Mercy Magnetic elliptical machine gives you a complete body workout by strengthening different muscle groups in your body.
Moreover, you are getting all these in your home’s comfort and not compromising with space. It is one of the best elliptical machines for small spaces that we came across while researching.
You have three stimulations of walking, running, and climbing stairs with just one single elliptical machine from the Marcy Magnetic equipment. It comes with 8 ability levels or resistance levels and a tension knob to adjust the intensity level while you are working out.
The handles have vinyl foam padding, which is very comfortable, and an ergonomic grip that allows you to get a great upper-body workout. Moreover, it also comes with two oversized pedals that comfortably fit any foot size to fit in the pedals.
It also has an LCD screen which allows you to track your time on the machine, calories, speed, and distance; moreover, you also get a cool feature of scan through settings to track your progress thoroughly and an odometer. All of these additional features make the Marcy Magnetic fitness equipment one of the best elliptical machines 2022 that you can get for your home workouts.
Pros:
- You get a full upper and lower body stimulation.
- It comes with a comfortable handle.
- The pedals are large, comfortable, and easy to fit.
- You also get 8 levels of resistance for more intense cardio workouts.
Cons:
- It is challenging to assemble.
Guide’s comment
“The most amazing thing about this piece of equipment is that it is suitable for any size and can withstand any bodyweight without any issues.”
Best Budget Elliptical Machine for Small Spaces: Body Champ New Elliptical Machine
When buying something for ourselves like a piece of compact elliptical, we tend to have a budget and try not to cross it unless necessary. That is where the new elliptical machine from body champ comes into play with lots of features that will not let your eyes turn.
It comes with a dual-action handlebar that synchronizes your upper and lower body for a complete workout. Moreover, you also get 8 levels of magnetic resistance, which gives you the option to adjust the intensity.
You also get a heart rate sensor on the handlebar grip, and the built-in heart rate monitor compiles with the computer console to give the most accurate heart rate readings possible.
Moreover, the computer console also shows your calories, speed, distance, and time; that is why they provide you with a media holder. You also get wide pedals for ample space for your feet, and there is a device holder for your phones and tablets. It is a step-through frame design that ensures maximum comfort and a transport wheel so that you easily move the equipment.
Pros:
- You get adjustable resistance levels for a full-body workout.
- The design of the machine makes it more comfortable and easy to use.
- It comes with a heart rate sensor on the handlebar.
- You also get a device holder.
Cons:
- The machine is thin.
Guide’s comment
“The machine is amazing with some of the best features, especially in that price range, such as – wider pedals, device holder, LCD monitors, and a heart rate monitoring system.”
Best Digital Elliptical for Small Spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer Series The M8
The new Bowflex elliptical is one of the best ellipticals for small spaces and one of the best commercial ellipticals in 2021 that you can get. It has a personalized coaching technology with M8, which creates your daily workout routine and adjusts the intensity.
As a result, the machine ensures that even your shortest cardio workout counts and you burn the maximum calories possible.
Moreover, it is lightweight and also the best elliptical machine for small spaces 2022 that we have on our list. The machine comes with a full backlit LCD and also has a magnetic device holder for your phone and tablets. The fitness equipment also has a Bluetooth heart rate monitoring system and an integrated contact grip.
It also comes with 20 resistance levels and sports performance pedals for maximum comfort and stability. Another cool feature is that you get a 7 guided workout program that you can access and preset at a specific time from the LCD panel. Moreover, you can connect four different users in that program, each having their preset exercise routine.
Pros:
- You get 20 resistance levels.
- It comes with a Bluetooth heart rate sensor.
- You get 7 guided workout plans and also an adjustable workout program for four different users.
- The LCD has backlit, and also you can control the machine through the display monitor.
Cons:
- The raw app needs to update.
Guide’s comment
“Considering the small space that we have in our home, it is one of the best elliptical for small spaces with a high-quality digital interface.”
Best Fat Burning Elliptical for Small Spaces: Bowflex Max Trainer Series the M3
Here we have another Bowflex series elliptical; the M3, like the M8, is also compact and makes the perfect in small space elliptical machine in 2022 list. It gives the benefits of training on 14 minutes interval workouts and also helps you in your weight loss program.
It comes with a unique burn rate monitor that displays the calories you’re burning per minute, and also, you can set your activity levels.
However, the app automatically sets your workout program, but you also have the option to adjust according to your preferences.
Moreover, you can also set your targets of burning calories, motivating and allowing you to push yourself to reach that goal. You also get a backlit interactive LCD with 2 workout programs and also resistance levels of a maximum of eight. Another thing is a heart rate chest strap that comes with the package and comfortable pedals, which put the cherry on top of the cake.
Pros:
- It comes with a device holder.
- The gauge is easy to read and also helps to burn more fat.
- It comes with a heart rate chest strap which is very accurate.
- There is no impact on your knees, back and also no joint pains.
Cons:
- You do not get a built-in speaker or iPod connection option.
Guide’s comment
“The M3 is perfect for those who like manual and interval training. Moreover, you also get free access to almost 600 workout programs for 8 weeks.”
Best Steel Elliptical for Small Spaces: NordicTrack Spacesaver SE7i Elliptical
While buying any fitness equipment or a piece of equipment for a home workout, we generally gravitate towards steel frame machines as they are durable and sturdy.
The NordicTrack elliptical SE7i is a steel frame construction and a space-saving elliptical machine for your home use.
It is an interactive personal training machine powered by iFit and also gives you a 1-month membership. The members have their perks such as – live experience, studio, and global workout programs. Moreover, you also get a virtual trainer who will guide you through your workouts.
It comes with a 5-inches LCD with backlit, which tracks your progress through the workouts, and you also have an AutoBreeze fan that keeps you cool while you are training. Moreover, you have 22 adjustable resistance levels, and through the iFit, the trainer can also adjust the intensity of the cardio workouts.
You get an adjustable ramp so that you can train even harder in an incline mood and an adjustable stride. Considering the price, you are getting a decent stride which is a perfect perk for multiple users. Then the machine is also foldable, which ensures space-saving to the maximum, and that is why the SE7i is on our list of the best ellipticals for small space.
The entire machine is 215 pounds with magnetic resistance; however, it has a max user weight capacity of 325 pounds, and the dimension is 67” H x 32” W x 80” L which saves a lot of space.
Pros:
- You get 22 adjustable resistance and an adjustable ramp.
- It comes with an adjustable stride.
- The machine can withstand heave user weight of 325 pounds.
- It comes with a virtual trainer and a free 1-month membership.
Cons:
- You get only 1-mont free membership.
Guide’s comment
“The SE7i is impressive and sturdy equipment for home use. Moreover, the machine is foldable and also comes with an adjustable ramp and stride. “
Best Stepping elliptical for small spaces: Sunny Health & Fitness Elliptical Cardio Machine
The SF-E3919 from Sunny Health & Fitness is a combination of an elliptical and a stepper machine. It means the equipment offers a stride and a range of motion for the user. In addition, the machine has sturdy steel construction and can withstand user weight up to 260 pounds.
It offers a vertical intense climbing experience at 9 inches and a horizontal stride at 5 inches. So, you are getting both features of climbing and striding in one single machine. Moreover, it is compact and perfect for small spaces.
The SF-E3919 has a belt-driven mechanism and 14 pounds flywheel, ensuring a smooth, intense, and quiet cardio workout. Not only that, the inertia-ready flywheel makes it easy for you to perform challenging climbing exercises and strides. Furthermore, the pedals have foam, so; it ensures complete comfort on your feet.
It has a pulse sensor on the grips, which monitors your heart rate and gives you an accurate reading on the LCD. The display also shows your progress on the machine, such as – time, speed, distance, heart rate, and calories. In addition, we found that the LCD also displays a clock, odometer, and a pretty convenient calendar.
You are getting 8 levels of adjustable resistance on the machine, and those are magnetic. The resistance knob is also very easy to use, and you also get some additional features such as – climber, hardware, tools, and user manual.
Pros:
- It has a sturdy steel frame that provides durability and has a weight capacity of 260 pounds.
- You also get an adjustable stabilizer.
- The pedals have foam and also an inner guard.
- It comes with BMI function, clock, date, and also temperature functions.
Cons:
- The LCD does not come with a backlit.
Guide’s comment
“The unique thing about the machine is the LCD, as it allows you to fully control your workout and other functions of the elliptical slash stepper combo.”
Best Magnetic elliptical for small spaces: EFITMENT Magnetic Elliptical Machine
The EFITMENT magnetic elliptical machine is a compact and easy-to-use elliptical device making it one of the Best Compact Elliptical for Small Spaces. It is a smooth-flowing workout machine with no impact.
It has a belt flywheel which ensures a quiet and smooth workout, and it also comes with transportation wheels. The pedals are relatively small; however, they are comfortable and save a lot of od space for the machine.
The package includes an LCD monitor that displays time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse rate. Its pulse rate monitoring system is built-in the stationary grips and helps to maintain a steady heart rate while you are on the elliptical. Moreover, you can preset your heart rate target from the LCD.
It also comes with a tablet holder and a phone holder for your convenience. The footpads or pedals are non-slip and perfect for any size of feet. You also get 8 levels of adjustable resistance and a non-slip leg stabilizer. Moreover, the product’s weight is 63 pounds; however, it has a max user weight of 220 pounds. It also has a decent stride length of 11 inches.
Pros:
- You get a pulse rate monitoring system with the option to set a target rate.
- It has a max user weight capacity of 220 pounds.
- The machine is compact and easy to move.
- It comes with 8 level resistance which is adjustable with a single knob.
Cons:
- Great for intermediate users, not for professional athletics.
Guide’s comment
“The E005 is a very compact home using fitness equipment that allows a perfect workout and stabilizes your pulse.”
Best Advanced Elliptical for Small Spaces: Sunny Health & Fitness Advanced Elliptical Machine
The SF-E320002 from Sunny Health & Fitness has advanced features such as an 11 pounds flywheel, 24 preset programs, bidirectional striding, and electromagnetic resistance for an overall full-body workout.
It has an LCD backlit monitor to keep track of your time on the machine, distance, calories, speed, resistance level, RPM, odometer, watts, heart rate, target heart rate, and program.
The heart rate sensors are on the handle grip, and you also get a device holder. Moreover, it allows you to change the resistance level with a single push.
You have 16 progressive resistances in the machine and 24 different programs. Moreover, the leg stabilizer ensures a steady workout. It also has a water bottle holder and a full-range handle with heart rate sensors. The pedals are wide, and you also get cushioned pedals for your comfort. The stride is 11.5 inches, and the entire machine’s dimension is 49.4L x 23.4W x 63.4H Inches. Furthermore, the entire device weighs around 84.5 pounds with a maximum weight capacity of 285 pounds.
Pros:
- You have 24 preset programs on the machine.
- It also comes with an accurate heart rate sensor, and you can also set the pulse rate target of the day.
- It comes with 16 levels of adjustable resistance.
- You get a full range motion from the handlebar, which is ideal for a perfect workout of your upper body.
Cons:
- The stride could be wider.
Guide’s comment
“The overall product is excellent with adjustable resistance and 24 preset programs. “
Best Portable Elliptical for Small Spaces: MaxKare Elliptical Machine
Some Best Compact Elliptical machine for Small Space needs to have the feature of foldability and portability. The MaxKare elliptical machine is exactly that; it is lightweight and easy to pack, making it the best elliptical for small spaces and the best portable elliptical machine.
The machine comes with an 11 pounds flywheel which ensures a smooth and perfect cardio workout. Moreover, the 8 levels of resistance and ease of transfer make it the best home ellipticals for small spaces. Despite being portable and lightweight, the machine has a weight capacity of 286.6 pounds. The frame is made from steel which the maximum weight capacity to be so high.
It also comes with 15.7 * 5.9inches extra-large pedals and a non-slip dual-track design. The machine has a decent stride with a step size of 36 cm. It also has a dual-action handlebar with double functions. One is that the outer part is moveable, and the second, it holds the inner handles while you do your workout.
The machine comes with an LCD monitor for tracking your speed, distance, calories, and time. Moreover, you also get a heart rate monitor and cushioned pedals for extra comfort. In addition, you have the option to transport the machine as it also has wheels.
Pros:
- It comes with 15.7 * 5.9inches cushioned pedals.
- The machine has an 11 pounds flywheel for an extra smooth run.
- It also has 8 levels of resistance.
- The equipment has a weight capacity of 286.6 pounds.
Cons:
- It is slightly loud on higher resistance.
Guide’s comment
“The overall product is very decent considering the price and features you are getting, especially the weight capacity and easy portability.”
Type of Elliptical is Right for a Small Workout Space
If you have a small workout area, you can still get great results from an elliptical machine. You just need the right one. When you shop for a small elliptical, you will notice that most models have a footprint that is larger than a treadmill. For example, the Proform Hybrid Recumbent Elliptical Machine measures 70.5 x 24.5 x 60.5 inches (L x W x H). Since it has a smaller footprint than the traditional ellipse, this model is an interesting option.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can you lose weight with a mini elliptical?
An elliptical machine is excellent home workout equipment for losing weight. Some of the best ellipticals for small spaces come with a preset cardio program and how many calories you are burning, ensuring that your weight loss program is successful.
Do ellipticals help lose belly fat?
No one wants a big belly, and spending or going to the gym sometimes is difficult due to our daily routine. However, you can use an elliptical machine for home workouts at least for an hour a day. An hour in the elliptical machine can help your burn almost 150 calories, and over time, you will start to shred that belly fat.
Is a stepper better than an elliptical?
A stepper machine is like walking up add down the stairs, and an elliptical machine gives you a full jogging experience. However, the stepper is more effective among the two cardio machines, but instead of buying a machine, you can do it on your home’s stairs. That is why elliptical machines are more practical as you are getting a full-body workout.
Best Elliptical for Small Spaces Final Thoughts
An elliptical machine allows you to loosen fat and also get in shape in the comfort of your home. However, most gym elliptical machines are large and take a lot of space. That is why we reviewed the best ellipticals for home use and wrote about the best elliptical for small spaces that you can buy without sacrificing your home space. Our article will help you better understand what to look for while buying an elliptical machine and the options you have for our list.