This is currently one of the top selling ellipticals at NordicTrack. And with these features and this price it's no surprise why.Best Ellipticals For 2026: Our Expert’s #1 Picks
When it comes to the best ellipticals on the market, you’ll find a lot of different opinions out there. That’s because there are so many brands, and each one offers any number of different models to choose from. It can get quite overwhelming, which is where we come in to make it all easier for you.
We have tested and/or thoroughly researched hundreds of machines over the years, from every major manufacturer as well as some of the lesser known, newer brands. I’m slightly above average in height, and our team varies in height and weight, so between all of us we’re able to narrow things down to the ellipticals that work well for the widest range of people.
And that’s what makes our best ellipticals list different.
This list is updated regularly and includes the newest models we’re able to test or evaluate — so check back often.
Keep in mind, models change frequently. Some of the ellipticals featured here for 2026 may eventually be replaced or discontinued, but they still give you a very accurate idea of what to expect from each brand.
We’ve organized our top picks by overall performance, price, and type, so you can quickly find what fits your needs. In each category, you’ll see our top recommendation along with a few strong alternatives for comparison.
If you have any questions or would like me to recommend an elliptical for you, please contact me and let me know.
- Very smooth, stable feel
- Heavy-duty build that lasts
- Strong warranty + overall value
» Best Ellipticals by Price
Under $1000
This is the sweet spot for budget-conscious buyers who still want a decent stride, better resistance and more stable construction than true entry-level machines.
Under $1500
Step up into this range and you usually get better console features, stronger warranties, smoother feel and a more substantial machine overall.
Under $2000
For most home buyers, this is where the best overall value starts to show up: stronger frames, better workout options and more comfortable motion.
Under $3000
At this level you start to see more premium builds and a more club-quality feel for buyers who want a higher-end machine at home.
» Best Ellipticals by Category
Best Compact Elliptical
If space is limited, compact or folding-style models can make more sense than a full-size trainer while still giving you a low-impact workout at home.
Best High-End Elliptical Machine
These are premium machines for buyers who care more about feel, performance and long-term durability than keeping the price down.
Best Elliptical Machine for Weight Loss
The best elliptical for weight loss is usually the one you’ll actually use consistently, but interval-friendly models with tougher resistance and more engaging workouts can help keep you motivated.
Best Elliptical for Seniors
For older users, stability, smooth motion, comfort and easy usability matter more than flashy extras. These are better fits for buyers prioritizing low-impact exercise and a confidence-inspiring feel.
Best Ellipticals – Which One Should You Choose?
The machines above are the very best ellipticals on the market in 2026 and you’ll be happy with any one that you choose.
You have three choices within each category, so take a look at all three and decide which one makes the most sense for you.
Here are some additional tips to help you with your decision…
You will definitely get the biggest bang for your buck at around $1500. That seems to be the magic number, where you start seeing elliptical trainers with features and capabilities typically only found on higher end commercial machines.
So if you can stretch your budget to at least that amount, you’ll definitely get a well rounded cardio machine that gives you a quite bit more than the lower priced models.
NordicTrack, Sole and Horizon give you great choices in that price range, with a number of very capable models to choose from. They also offer some very capable ellipticals in the $700-$1000 range, in case your budget is a little more restricted. ProForm has some good lower priced models as well.
Looking for something higher end?
Perhaps something that is gym-quality similar to what you find at the health club? You should definitely look at Life Fitness first, which has some of the very best commercial-grade ellipticals on the market today.
You’re looking at around $2,000 and up there, but the quality just can’t be beat. Along with Life Fitness, look at Precor and Matrix, both of which offer a nice selection of cross trainers to choose from.
As far as cheaper ellipticals are concerned, you’re not really going to find anything great under $500. The quality just isn’t there, as it is difficult to incorporate durable components at that price level.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer that we recommend is slightly over $500, but worth the additional $100 if you can swing it. The other choices are fine, but again try to stretch your budget as much as possible.
As a general rule of thumb, the higher the price within a brand the more features and capabilities you will get. The more expensive ellipticals will also typically have higher max weight capacities and stronger warranties. That’s something to consider.
Also, although we might recommend a particular model, that’s not to say that another is not a better choice for you.
For example, we recommend the Sole E95 as one of the best ellipticals for home use. But you may find that the more advanced Sole E98 with a larger display and enhanced features is more in line with what you are looking for.
Or you might not need the touch screen or the incline and decide that the entry level FS5i is the better choice.
So which elliptical should you choose? Figure out your budget and look at the machines that fall within that category. Check out all of the features and capabilities and decide which one is closest to what you are looking for.
If you need more, just look at the more advanced option in the lineup as we mentioned above. Similarly, if you need less move down in the lineup.
The best ellipticals that our experts have selected are the top choices that will satisfy the most users, but feel free to consider other models within the brands that we have recommended.
Still not sure what to pick? Contact us and let us choose the best elliptical for you based on your needs.