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Commercial ellipticals are one of the most low-impact exercise machines out there. They’re easier on your joints than the cushiest of treadmills and can boost cardiovascular health, improve balance and mobility, and help you reach your weight loss goals. With their heavy-duty construction, a commercial-grade elliptical can last you a long time.
The Best Commercial Elliptical - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Commercial Elliptical: Sole E95s
- Best Budget Commercial Elliptical: Sole E20
- Best Commercial Elliptical for HIIT: Sole E35
- Best Commercial Elliptical for Home: NordicTrack Commercial 14.9
- Best Hybrid Commercial Elliptical: NordicTrack FS14i
- Best Folding Commercial Elliptical: NordicTrack Commercial 9.9
- Best Commercial Elliptical for Beginners: Horizon 7.0 AE
There are many considerations to keep in mind as you search for the best commercial elliptical. Which features do you absolutely need? Which drive system is best? Only you can answer those questions, but the ACTIVE Reviews Team has created this comprehensive guide complete with our top picks to help you know what to look for when searching for the best commercial elliptical.
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Best Overall Commercial Elliptical - Sole E95s
SPECS
- Dimensions: 84"L x 32"W x 71"H
- Weight: 265 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs.
- Resistance Levels: 20
- Workout Programs: 10
The Sole E95s has a sturdy frame and a lifetime warranty, so it’s built to last. At 30 pounds, the front flywheel moves smoothly and you can control the resistance with the Eddy Current Brake (ECB) system. The ECB uses magnets, and since there are no moving parts, the need for maintenance is minimal.
If you want to change the length of your stride, the power-adjust feature can help you find a comfortable distance for training. The foot pedals are cushioned and oversized so you won’t feel cramped as you follow along with one of the ten built-in programs. The display is also compatible with the Sole Studio app, which is available for an additional cost and offers more class options.
What We Like
- Bluetooth-compatible speakers
- You can monitor your heart rate using sensors on the handles or the included chest strap
- Flywheel is 30 lbs. and controlled using magnetic resistance
- Adjustable stride length is great for shorter and taller users
- Multiple spots to place your hands
What We Don't Like
- Extended warranty includes more coverage at an additional cost
- Only 10 built-in workout programs
Best Budget Commercial Elliptical - Sole E20
SPECS
- Dimensions: 69"L x 24"W x 64"H
- Weight: 189 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 325 lbs.
- Resistance Levels: 20
- Workout Programs: 8
The Sole E20 offers a low-impact, full-body workout at a reasonable price point. From the LED console, you can track your progress, hook up a device to listen to music, or watch your favorite shows using the built-in speakers. There's also a USB port if you need to charge while you work out.
While the 14.4-pound flywheel is on the lighter side, it still delivers a quiet ride. Its position at the front of the machine allows this elliptical to be relatively compact. The maximum stride length is 18 inches, which may be something to consider if you have a longer stride. If you run into any issues, there is a lifetime frame warranty, three-year electronics warranty, and one-year parts and labor warranty.
What We Like
- Excellent features and warranties for the price point
- Magnetic resistance requires little maintenance
- Front-drive system makes this machine compact
- You can monitor your heart rate using sensors on the handles
What We Don't Like
- Chest strap to monitor your heart rate is not included
- Workout display is small
Best Commercial Elliptical for HIIT - Sole E35
SPECS
- Dimensions: 82"L x 31"W x 71"H
- Weight: 231 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 375 lbs.
- Resistance Levels: 20
- Workout Programs: 10
The Sole E35 is an excellent option if you like high-intensity interval training (HIIT). It has 20 resistance levels, and you can incline up to 20%. Different inclines allow you to target specific muscle groups in your lower body, and the handles have lots of options for hand placement, so you can work different muscle groups in your upper body, as well.
To ease the stress on your ankles and knees, the foot pedals were designed with a two-degree inward slope. The heavy-duty rails and four rear wheels reduce side-to-side foot motion, which creates a stable experience.
What We Like
- Integrated device holder, so you can watch TV or follow your favorite workout app
- Magnetic resistance system is low maintenance
- Training using the incline can add intensity to your workout
- Maximum stride length is 20"
What We Don't Like
- Only 10 built-in workout programs
- Heavy
Best Commercial Elliptical for Home - NordicTrack Commercial 14.9
SPECS
- Dimensions: 67"L x 29"W x 69"H
- Weight: 210 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.
- Resistance Levels: 26
- Workout Programs: 35
The NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 can increase the versatility of your home gym. With its adjustable resistance and incline, you can target specific muscle groups. There are 26 resistance levels, all of which use a magnetic system, and you can manually adjust the incline up to 20% or use the auto-adjust feature for both incline and resistance. If you don’t mind an additional cost, you can sign up for iFit, which has an extensive workout library, or use the 35 built-in programs for free.
The frame is made with solid steel and comes with a 10-year warranty. Located in the front, the 32-pound flywheel moves smoothly and quietly. The stride length adjusts automatically, but the maximum length is 18.7 inches, which may be too short for some.
What We Like
- Oversized cushion pedals
- Auto-adjust technology is convenient
- Flywheel is 32 lbs. and uses magnetic resistance
- 30-day free trial for iFIt
- 35 built-in programs are more than other commercial ellipticals
What We Don't Like
- Heavy
- iFit membership is an additional cost
- Screen does not rotate so it may be hard to follow a class off the elliptical
BUY: NordicTrack Commercial 14.9
Best Hybrid Commercial Elliptical - NordicTrack FS14i
SPECS
- Dimensions: 58.5"L x 29.5"W x 74"H
- Weight: 287 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 375 lbs.
- Resistance Levels: 26
- Workout Programs: 35
Our choice for the best hybrid commercial elliptical is hands down the NordicTrack FS14i. That's because it's an elliptical, stepper, and treadmill. All you have to do is switch your natural motion and it feels like you're working out on a different machine. Also, the resistance, incline, and decline automatically adjust throughout your workout.
As you train uphill, downhill, or whatever suits your fancy, this machine adjusts the stride length based on your movements (all the way up to 32 inches!). The display is a really nice high-definition touchscreen that you can use to track your metrics or follow along with an iFit class.
What We Like
- Commercial, heavy-duty steel construction
- Inclines up to 10% and declines down to -10%
- Resistance and incline can be adjusted from the handles or automatically
- Center drive system is compact
- All-in-one elliptical, stepper, and treadmill
What We Don't Like
- Heavy
- No stationary handles
- Expensive
Best Folding Commercial Elliptical - NordicTrack Commercial 9.9
SPECS
- Dimensions: 80"L x 32"W x 67"H
- Weight: 244 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.
- Resistance Levels: 22
- Workout Programs: 30
The NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 has a 7" smart HD touchscreen, with automatic iFit trainer controls, and bluetooth audio capabilities. While the folding feature went out the door after it's earlier model, the Spacesaver SE9i, you can still easily lift the 9.9 with the handle at the rear, and roll it on the front wheel for convenience and storage if you space is limited.
There are 22 resistance levels that you can adjust using the Silent Magnetic Resistance technology, and you can incline up to 20% to focus on particular muscle groups. Both of these adjustments can be made manually or automatically as you follow one of the 30 built-in workouts or an iFit class.
What We Like
- Built-in wheels, folding console, and handles make storage easy
- Pedals are adjustable and cushioned
- Google Maps technology makes for scenic training sessions
- Commercial, heavy-duty steel construction
- Resistance and incline can be adjusted from the handles or automatically
What We Don't Like
- 218 lbs. may be challenging for some to move in and out of storage
- Expensive
- Rear drive may be too bulky for some spaces
BUY: NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i
Best Commercial Elliptical for Beginners - Horizon 7.0 AE
SPECS
- Dimensions: 76"L x 24"W x 65.5"H
- Weight: 194 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 325 lbs.
- Resistance Levels: 20
- Workout Programs: 8
The Horizon 7.0 AE has tons of great features at an excellent price point, which is why we find it an ideal option for beginners. It has eight built-in programs, which may seem low, but these include essentials like 5K training, calorie, custom, distance, fat burn, hill climb, manual, and target heart rate tracking. So there are a variety of options to choose from and there is ample guidance if you're not sure where to start.
While you work out, you can stream a show from your device via Bluetooth. It has a SixStar Frame that's backed by a lifetime warranty, so it can handle intense training regularly. We really like that the resistance system is magnetic and requires little maintenance.
What We Like
- Touchscreen display tracks calories, distance, heart rate, incline, speed, and time
- Incline can add intensity to your workout
- Flywheel is 23 lbs. and uses magnetic resistance
- Can connect to fitness apps via Bluetooth
What We Don't Like
- Workout display is small
- Does not connect to all tracking apps
Benefits of Ellipticals
A commercial elliptical machine can help you lose weight or improve your stamina and endurance. These machines can provide an upper and lower body workout, and you can increase the intensity of your training as needed. The built-in programs can be set for interval training one day, distance goals the next, and calorie goals the day after that.
Commercial-grade elliptical machines are also high quality and designed to be gentle on your joints. Adding one to your home gym is super convenient.
What to Look for in Commercial Ellipticals
Drive
The flywheel is a revolving wheel that drives momentum and provides stability as you push the pedals. The weight of the flywheel can impact the quality, fluidity, and smoothness of the machine. The drive system can be located in the rear, front, or center of a commercial-grade elliptical. A rear-drive system allows for a longer stride and is usually quieter, but it also takes up more space.
Front-drive systems tend to be more compact and may offer other features, like incline. Since they have more moving parts, they can require more upkeep, and they often have a shorter stride length, which may not be suitable for taller users. A center-drive system is the most compact because the flywheel is located on the side, which puts the user in a more upright position. These tend to be more costly, though. If possible, try to choose a commercial elliptical with a drive system that's as high quality as your budget allows.
Resistance Levels
The number of resistance levels you need depends on your fitness goals and experience. A beginner likely won’t need more than 20 levels of resistance, but it's a good idea to choose a machine with more levels if you plan on working towards training with higher resistance.
In general, you'll see two types of resistance systems on commercial-grade elliptical machines: friction resistance and magnetic resistance. Friction resistance uses pads to slow down the flywheel, and while this system is cheaper and responds quickly to resistance changes, the pads wear out over time and require maintenance. Magnetic resistance, on the other hand, is more costly upfront but requires little maintenance. That’s because the magnetic force that slows the flywheel does not rely on friction. This system is also quieter, which may be preferable for those who plan on using their elliptical in a shared space.
Workout Programs
Each commercial elliptical mentioned here comes with built-in programs. These can be helpful for those who want to hop on and work out without the hassle sifting through third-party workout apps. If you do like more options, many machines, including the Sole E95s and the NordicTrack Commercial 14.9, are compatible with apps that offer live classes, on-demand classes, and workouts off the machine. These generally require a monthly subscription but are a great option if you want to participate in an instructor-led class or diversify your training with other class types.
FAQs About Commercial Ellipticals
What elliptical do gyms use?
That depends on the gym, but it's not uncommon to see brands like NordicTrack, Sole Fitness, and Horizon.
How much should I pay for an elliptical?
That depends on your budget and the features that are important to you.
How long should I elliptical each day?
Exercising 30 to 60 minutes a day is effective, but if you don't have that kind of time, working out for 20 to 30 minutes is better than not at all. If you have a shorter time frame, we recommend doing HIIT (high-intensity interval training) on your elliptical to maximize your time.
About the Author
Rachael Gonzalez is a Staff Writer for ACTIVE. She spent five years in education before she joined the ACTIVE team in 2022. In this role, she is still able to make a positive impact on others by writing about something she loves: health and wellness.
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