Sometimes getting fit on a budget seems impossible. Most commercial workout equipment costs thousands of dollars and is completely out of reach of many people looking to get healthy. However, there are machines out there for a low price that aid in your fitness journey just as well as the more expensive brands!
Ellipticals are stationary exercise machines that simulate walking or running without putting excessive pressure on the joints. They’re a great choice, not only because they lessen the risk of impact injuries, but also because they give you a full-body workout and are able to challenge anyone, no matter their level of fitness. It’s no shock that elliptical machines are one of the most popular types of workout equipment!
If you’re on a budget but still want to purchase your own equipment, you’ve come to the right place! Below are reviews of my top five picks for the best elliptical under $500. When you bring yours home you can start challenging yourself right away with great workouts like this.
Under $500 Elliptical Comparison Table
| Image | Model | Seat | Handlebars | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
No |
Yes |
$$$$ | |
 |
No |
Yes |
$$$ | |
 |
No |
Yes |
$$ | |
 |
Yes |
Yes |
$ | |
 |
Yes |
Yes |
$ |
Top 5 Ellipticals Under $500 Reviewed:
1. Avari Magnetic Elliptical
With a sleek, durable style, this low-price elliptical machine is a great choice if you’re looking for the best elliptical under $500. It has dual weighted flywheels, a textured, non-slip walking/jogging surface, and skid-resistant rubber floor protectors to maximize stability. This machine is mainly recommended for people of a smaller stature because of its compact nature.
The easy-to-read monitor keeps you focused and motivated, letting you know your time, speed, distance, calories burned, RPM, and your pulse. In addition, the simple tension dial offers eight different levels of magnetic resistance so you can vary your workouts.
Many comfort features are included as well, such as the ability to move the seat forward and backward as well as up and down. The pedals have straps for safety as well that can help you make the most of a quick workout like this.
The Bottom Line:
Straightforward and compact, the Avari Magnetic delivers a solid workout without taking up too much space.
Get The Lowest Avari Magnetic Price
2. Plasma Fit
Plasma Fit
This low-price product is one of the best elliptical machines for the money on the market, considering it has two functions: an elliptical standing position and an exercise bike seated position. This allows you to switch up your cardio routine, which is a great way to lose weight! T
he Plasma Fit Elliptical Machine provides a full-body, low-impact cardio workout, perfect to help you lose those last few pounds. The adjustable resistance on this machine lets you adjust your workout as your fitness level improves so that you’re always able to challenge yourself. An LCD screen will keep you informed on your speed, time, distance, and calories burned. Seeing all of that information onscreen will keep you motivated and ready to complete your workout successfully!
Finally, this elliptical is built with a sturdy construction that’s made to last, so you’ll be able to use it for many years to come.
The Bottom Line:
For those on a budget the Plasma Fit delivers the most features without straining the wallet.
Get The Lowest Plasma Fit Price
3. Fitness Reality E5500XL
Fitness Reality E5500 XL
This impressive elliptical machine is one of the top rated elliptical machines under $500. Not only does it comes with 24 levels of smooth magnetic tension resistance, it also has 21 computer pre-set workout programs so you’re never at a loss as to what to do!
This high-quality elliptical by Fitness Reality runs on a double transmission system, which results in increased momentum and a smoother striding motion. The elliptical stride length is 18 inches, the perfect length to prevent any strain on the knees or ankles while also providing a comfortable and full-range workout.
Read our full review of the Fitness Reality E5500 XL here.
A backlit LCD computer lets you know your time, distance, speed, RPM, calories burned, and your pulse, so you’re always in touch with both your physical info and your workout progress. Another great aspect of this elliptical is that it’s designed to be compact, so it should fit into your home perfectly.
The Bottom Line:
This model flies off the shelf, so if the Fitness Reality E5500XL is your pick don’t procrastinate and pull the trigger on the purchase the first chance you get.
Get The Lowest Fitness Reality E5500XL Price
4. Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E3416
Sunny Health SF-E3416
Although the weight limit for this elliptical tops off at 250 pounds, it is still one of the best ellipticals under $500. It offers a cardiovascular workout without causing excessive pressure to the joints, therefore reducing injuries.
It targets arms, glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves, so you can be sure that a consistent workout on this machine will tone your entire body! It’s a dual-action elliptical trainer with large non-slip platforms that help to keep your workout safe and accident-free. It also features an eight-level micro tension controller and a heavy-duty crank.
The LCD screen shows time, speed, distance, calories, and your pulse, so you’re always able to track your workouts. The sleek, sturdy steel frame is made to last and also has transportation wheels for easy portability and location. Plus, the design of this elliptical, with its red and gray accents, would be a great addition to any home gym.
The Bottom Line:
A well designed machine, the SF-E3416 is one of the few ellipitcals in this price range featuring heart rate monitoring in the handgrips.
Get The Lowest Sunny Health SF-E3416 Price
5. GoPlus 2 in 1
GoPlus 2 in 1
This 2-in-1 exercise machine is the lowest priced in the group. In fact, it can actually be found routinely for under $100! With the capability to be used as a traditional exercise bike or an elliptical machine, the versatility of this product can’t be denied.
There is a top-down, easy-to-use resistance system. A friction knob allows you to change the resistance of the machine and choose to have an easier or more challenging workout. The chain-driven fan resistance is quiet and smooth, perfect for when you want to exercise and watch TV at the same time. It also has the added bonus of keeping you cool as you work out. Simple but effective and durable, this product is easily the best elliptical machine for the money!
The Bottom Line:
If your primary concern is saving money, you can’t go wrong with the GoPlus 2 in 1. It’s a great elliptical to have in your house.
Get The Lowest GoPlus 2 in 1 Price
Getting Started With Elliptical Workouts
All of the ellipticals reviewed in this article not only deliver great cardio, but their handlebars allow for a great upper-body workout at the same time. The video below gives a great overview of how you can make the most of all the features in just a twenty minute workout.
Conclusion
After you’ve read this article, it should be clear that elliptical machines can be purchased on any budget! The health benefits of this workout equipment are undeniable, and elliptical machines are a great way to exercise at home and still get the results you would get at the gym.
Having trouble choosing between our five great picks? If you’re looking for the most inexpensive (but still functional and durable) product, the Goplus® 2 IN 1 Elliptical Bike is the perfect choice for you. Want versatility? The Plasma Fit Elliptical Machine is great with its two different functions. In search of a compact elliptical machine that can fit anywhere? Both the Avari Magnetic Elliptical and the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3416 Magnetic Elliptical Trainer are smaller than the typical elliptical. Finally, the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is the most high-tech of this group of ellipticals.
Regardless of your final choice, you’re sure to have purchased a high-quality elliptical for a great price.
Product Images Via Amazon
Enter your text here…