8 Best Ellipticals of 2026: Tested, Reviewed & Ranked

An elliptical is a smart addition to any home gym — low impact on joints with a full-body aerobic workout.

Adding an elliptical to your home gym can be one of the best decisions you make for your fitness routine. Unlike running on hard pavement or even a treadmill, an elliptical delivers a smooth, joint-friendly aerobic workout that engages both your upper and lower body simultaneously. If you've been dealing with knee issues, hip discomfort, or simply want a quieter alternative to pounding away on a treadmill, these machines are well worth considering.

But not all ellipticals are created equal. The spacing of the pedals, the stride length, the positioning of the handlebars — all of these vary dramatically from one model to the next. That's precisely why hands-on testing matters so much. We evaluated machines across a wide spectrum of body sizes and fitness levels to find those that truly deliver comfort, performance, and long-term value. Below, you'll find our picks for the very best ellipticals available right now.

What Makes an Elliptical a Great Choice?

Compared to treadmills, ellipticals offer a built-in upper-body component that engages your arms, shoulders, and core throughout every stride. They tend to run more quietly too, making them ideal for shared living spaces, apartments, or late-night workout sessions when the rest of the house is asleep.

However, there's an important distinction between the two. While a treadmill allows you to move naturally — walking, jogging, or sprinting — an elliptical locks you into a fixed motion path. This means the pedal spacing, stride length, and handlebar positioning must feel right for your body. A poorly designed elliptical can feel awkward and uncomfortable within minutes.

That's why experts consistently recommend trying any elliptical in person before committing to a purchase. If that's not an option, pay close attention to the stride length specifications and the return policy — your body will thank you.

How We Evaluate Ellipticals

Our testing methodology is designed to reflect real-world usage. For ergonomic assessment, we use two reference body types — a taller individual at the 95th percentile and a shorter individual at the 5th percentile — to evaluate whether a machine comfortably accommodates a wide variety of users. If a machine only works well for one body type, it doesn't make our list.

When it comes to exercise intensity, our testers work through multiple resistance levels: the lowest setting, 75 percent of maximum, and the absolute maximum. This gives us a clear picture of how versatile each machine is for both gentle recovery sessions and all-out cardio pushes.

Safety is never an afterthought. We inspect every machine for potential pinch points around the pedals and moving arms, evaluate the size and grip of the pedal surfaces, and check whether the handle design could pose any risk — particularly to the eyes during vigorous use. Only machines that pass all these checks with confidence earn a recommendation.

Keeping Your Elliptical in Peak Condition

Your elliptical is an investment, and a little regular care goes a long way in protecting it. Beyond extending the life of the machine, consistent cleaning helps keep your workout environment hygienic — something that matters even more if multiple household members share the equipment.

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