So if you’re someone who places a premium on both efficiency and cardiovascular health, a compact elliptical may be a good fit. You don’t have the same schedule disruption as with a dedicated gym session, but you can still get in a great workout—and without sacrificing a lot of space in your home. We wanted to find the best compact ellipticals available, so we asked our testing team to try several models. Here’s what they said, including feedback on noise levels, programming features, and more.

Best Compact Ellipticals of 2026

• Best Compact Elliptical Overall: NordicTrack X16 Elliptical
• Best Compact Elliptical for Small Spaces: BowFlex Max Trainer M6
• Best Quiet Compact Elliptical: Horizon EX-59
• Best Compact Elliptical for Beginners: Sole E25
• Best Value Compact Elliptical: Schwinn 411

Best Compact Ellipticals Comparison Table

Compact Ellipticals	Dimensions	Resistance Levels	Incline Range	Display
NordicTrack X16 Elliptical	58.5″ L x 29.5″ W x 74″ H	26	10% incline to -10% decline	Tilting 16″ Touchscreen
BowFlex Max Trainer M6	46″ L x 26″ W x 64.2″ H	16	n/a	Backlit LCD display
Horizon EX-59	73″ L x 24″ W x 66″ H	10	n/a	3 Blue LED Windows
Sole E25	70″ L x 24″ W x 70″ H	20	20 levels	7.5″ Backlit LCD
Schwinn 411	53.8″ L x 24″ W x 62.5″ H	16	n/a	High-contrast LCD

NordicTrack X16 Elliptical
Dimensions	58.5″ L x 29.5″ W x 74″ H
Resistance Levels	26
Incline Range	10% incline to -10% decline
Display	Tilting 16″ Touchscreen
BowFlex Max Trainer M6
Dimensions	46″ L x 26″ W x 64.2″ H
Resistance Levels	16
Incline Range	n/a
Display	Backlit LCD display
Horizon EX-59
Dimensions	73″ L x 24″ W x 66″ H
Resistance Levels	10
Incline Range	n/a
Display	3 Blue LED Windows
Sole E25
Dimensions	70″ L x 24″ W x 70″ H
Resistance Levels	20
Incline Range	20 levels
Display	7.5″ Backlit LCD
Schwinn 411
Dimensions	53.8″ L x 24″ W x 62.5″ H
Resistance Levels	16
Incline Range	n/a
Display	High-contrast LCD

Best Compact Elliptical Overall: NordicTrack X16 Elliptical

Our Thoughts on NordicTrack X16 Elliptical

The NordicTrack X16 Elliptical is designed for low-impact workouts. The machine offers options similar to a stepper, elliptical, and treadmill, and even though it’s low-impact, workouts can still be plenty challenging. This elliptical offers 26 different resistance levels, plus the option to set the machine to an incline or decline. 

You can also use iFIT with this elliptical, a workout streaming service. Those with an iFIT Pro subscription and WiFi access can do iFIT workouts that control the machine to follow the trainer. Plus, you get a free one-month iFIT membership when you purchase this elliptical.

Our tester, Paige, tried this model and had many positive things to report—rating it a 4.5 out of 5 for overall experience. “This machine is extremely smooth, one of the smoothest ellipticals I have been on—it almost felt like I was floating,” she said. She added that it was “extremely quiet,” saying, “I could barely hear it while in use.” 

Paige said the machine would be ideal for a household where you’re trying not to disturb other people while working out. One thing to note when first using this machine: Paige did say that when she first stepped onto the machine she felt unstable because the pedals offer multidirectional movement. “With more use, the pedals became more stable,” she explained. She rated the overall construction and durability of this elliptical a 5 out of 5.

The NordicTrack X16 Elliptical offers 26 resistance levels, and Paige said she tested the entire range of resistance during her workout. “The transitions between resistance levels were extremely smooth, and I felt the difficulty increase gradually,” said Paige, noting, “The higher resistance levels were realistic and still comfortable.” She also said the elliptical’s handles are useful for additional upper body engagement and keeping a good rhythm. Overall, she said, “This makes for a very customizable workout.” 

Paige liked the incline option as well. “This is also the first elliptical machine that I have used with incline and I think it further increased the intensity and burn with the workout.” She did say the incline could be a little smoother while changing settings, however. 

As for the programming, Paige liked workouts available. This elliptical utilizes iFit programming, which gives a wide variety of workouts with different goals and intensities. “I enjoyed that the machine automatically adjusted to the workout I chose so I did not have to worry about keeping up—I could just enjoy the workout,” Paige said, rating the programming a 5 out of 5.

And of course, with this being a compact elliptical, Paige weighed in on how easy it was to move around. “The machine looks high quality without being too bulky,” said Paige, noting that while there are wheels on the elliptical that make it easier to move around, “it is on the heavier side and may require multiple people to move the machine to prevent injury.” She rated this elliptical a 3 out of 5 for portability.

Specs

• Weight Capacity: 375 pounds
• Stride Length: 32″ auto-adjustable stride
• Dimensions: 58.5″ L x 29.5″ W x 74″ H
• Resistance Levels: 26 digital resistance levels

Best Compact Elliptical for Small Spaces: BowFlex Max Trainer M6

Our Thoughts on BowFlex Max Trainer M6

The BowFlex Max Trainer M6 is described as having a vertically oriented step path that makes it more of an elliptical/stepper hybrid, which the website says is “perfect for HIIT” and incline-focused training. The Max Trainer M6 is also described as having a “stepper-like intensity” that allows users to do everything from hill sprints to leisurely hikes. And of course, it’s a compact option, with a small footprint that allows it to fit through most interior doorframes and other tight spaces. In fact, this is the most compact elliptical in our lineup, which makes it a strong contender for people who want a space-saving fitness machine.

Charlotte, our tester, tried the BowFlex Max Trainer M6 and found some definite upsides, plus a few things that could be improved, rating the overall experience a 4 out of 5. She liked that despite the compact size, “There is stability as I was using this.” Charlotte rated this elliptical a 4 out of 5 for construction and durability, noting, “Even when this machine is pushed to higher speeds it stays very stable and doesn’t make you feel unsafe.”

Another thing Charlotte appreciated was that “this elliptical is quieter but does run by a fan, so it does have the fan sound. But even as you increase your speed the sound doesn’t increase by much.” She said the range of resistance levels was nice—there are 16 levels—and she found the mid-to-high levels challenging enough for interval training.

Charlotte said that while using this elliptical, “you can easily pedal forwards and backwards and the motion is like you are walking up and down stairs,” but she found the interface to be somewhat problematic. “The only weakness it has is the interface because it is harder to understand and read,” said Charlotte. “The interface looks a lot different from other ellipticals,” with many buttons that control user selection, sound, starting and stopping, and more. 

“The machine was more complicated to use and takes a little bit to fully figure out. It is harder to adjust and choose programs off of the machine due to the complexity of the interface,” our tester noted, and ultimately gave the BowFlex Max Trainer M6 a 1 out of 5 for its programming.

Finally, observed Charlotte, “This elliptical is very lightweight and contains wheels on the front, making it easier to move.” She rated it a 4 out of 5 for portability.

Specs

• Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
• Stride Length: not specified
• Dimensions: 46″ L x 26″ W x 64.2″ H
• Resistance Levels: 16 resistance levels

Best Compact Elliptical for Beginners: Horizon EX-59

Our Thoughts on Horizon EX-59

The Horizon EX-59 advertises an “advanced pulley system for a smooth, consistent motion” and a “tighter Q factor” which is defined as the distance between pedals, which the website claims helps reduce stress on the hips and back. Based on tester feedback, we recommend this model for people looking for a moderate, not high-intensity workout.

Our tester, Charlotte, tried this one as well. She said the Horizon EX-59 is a good option for beginners because the controls were easy to use and she found it performed better at lower speeds. She gave it a 3.5 out of 5 for overall experience, noting it was a solid option for those looking for a moderate, not rigorous, workout.

“[This elliptical] would be a good choice for beginners because there are really easy-to-use controls,” noted Charlotte, adding that it would be ideal for someone who’s easing into fitness or just wants a simple workout. She said there are buttons located right on the handles, which she found very convenient. “I thought they were really easy to use, and there wasn’t a huge learning curve,” said Charlotte. She rated the controls and programming a 4 out of 5.

Charlotte said, “This elliptical is not loud,” though she did say she typically wasn’t using it at high speeds. She did find the stride a little short, making it more challenging to push the machine harder. “I think this is just something you want to use for a very low-impact workout or if you’re just looking to get a little movement in.”

While she appreciated the intuitive buttons, she was less impressed by this elliptical’s durability. “Overall construction appears to be sort of weak,” Charlotte said, adding, “The handlebars that move back-and-forth with the pedals feel loose.” She rated the machine a 3 out of 5 for durability.

As for portability, Charlotte said this wasn’t the heaviest elliptical that she’d encountered, but even when it being somewhat lighter in weight, she found it didn’t roll easily on carpet. For that reason, she rated it a 4 out of 5 for portability.

Specs

• Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
• Stride Length: 18 inches
• Dimensions: 73″ L x 24″ W x 66″ H
• Resistance Levels: 10 electronically adjustable

Best Quiet Compact Elliptical: Sole E25

Our Thoughts on Sole E25

The Sole E25 Elliptical was designed in collaboration with a physical therapist, according to the company website, and offers “unique foot pedals” with a two-degree inward slope which purportedly reduces ankle and knee stress. The company says the Sole E25 offers a smooth, stable feel with minimized side-to-side foot pedal motion, and there’s also a SOLE+ app that can be integrated with this elliptical to help track goals and progress. This model doesn’t overdo it on features, making it a non-intimidating option for those who don’t want a lot of programming.

Our tester Charlotte found this model to be a solid, basic elliptical with a nice simplicity to it—though there were a couple of downsides as well. She rated it a 3.5 out of 5 for overall experience.

After first trying the Sole E25 Charlotte said, “there was not a ton of noise; it was pretty quiet.” She added, “The resistance felt good and realistic, and it was easy to change settings with the buttons on the handle.” She rated the controls and programming a 4 out of 5.

Charlotte said, “It was pretty smooth for your average elliptical,” with a comfortable stride length. However, she said she did notice some wobbling. “I didn’t feel unsafe on the elliptical, but it did feel a little wobbly at the top.” She said she didn’t notice any potential weaknesses or defects, nor any shaking or weird noises, and she rated this elliptical a 3.5 out of 5 for construction and durability. 

Specs

• Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
• Stride Length: 20 inches
• Dimensions: 70″L x 24″W x 70″H
• Resistance Levels: 20 levels

Best Value Compact Elliptical: Schwinn 411

Our Thoughts on Schwinn 411

The Schwinn 411 Elliptical is marketed as having the benefits of a larger elliptical but in a more compact size. This model offers a low-impact cardio workout, and it has Bluetooth connectivity that allows users to connect to specific fitness apps. If you don’t want to pay for an additional app subscription, however, this machine also comes with 13 workout programs.

Kayla, our tester, found this machine to be “very quiet overall,” and she said there’s a mechanism that allows you to get the elliptical level with your floor to avoid any rocking or extra noise. While using the machine, Kayla said, “The elliptical feels pretty smooth overall. Even on the highest resistance I didn’t feel a vibration.” She rated this elliptical a 5 out of 5 for overall experience, and another 5 out of 5 for construction and durability.

She also found it a very effective machine, saying, “I was able to get in a 10-minute workout quickly and get my heart rate up before lifting. My joints felt good overall, and I didn’t notice any aching like I feel on a traditional treadmill. I felt like this was a great cardio option without the pain.”

The programming earned a 3 out of 5 rating from Kayla, and was the only real drawback in her opinion—but not a dealbreaker. “The technology in the display is very limited,” she said, adding, “Although limited, it was very intuitive to use. There are three simple programs and they get the job done.”

Kayla also said this was a truly compact option, explaining, “I really love its size for my home because most ellipticals are huge and need so much room around it to work. This elliptical did a nice up and down motion with a slight tilt forward.” She also said she was able to move the elliptical with one hand, and the wheels glided easily. “You could easily fit this in a bedroom or even a small closet to pull out and use when needed,” said Kayla, rating this machine a 5 out of 5 for portability.

Specs

• Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
• Stride Length: 18 inches
• Dimensions: 53.8″ L x 24″ W x 62.5″ H
• Resistance Levels: 16 magnetic resistance levels

Why the Right Fitness Equipment Matters to Professionals 

The right at-home equipment, like a compact elliptical, is an excellent choice for people who prioritize efficiency. At-home cardio drastically reduces the start-to-finish time commitment required to work out, because there’s no trip to the gym, no changing in the locker room, no wondering around looking for an available machine. Your compact elliptical is right there, and the time commitment is simply your workout time—not all the extra stuff.

How We Tested and Selected the Best Compact Ellipticals

We prioritized certain characteristics when testing compact ellipticals. Here’s what we deemed most important.

Size

We focused on ellipticals with a smaller footprint, ideal for smaller spaces and for people who simply want a fitness machine that’s as out-of-the-way as possible. Additionally, testers looked for machines that can easily be moved.

Stride Length 

Choosing an elliptical with the appropriate stride length is important for comfort and injury prevention. Most of the models had stride lengths ranging from 18 to 20 inches, which is considered suitable for a broad range of users.

Ergonomics

Our testing team prioritized machines designed with comfort in mind, from hand grips to foot pedals. While working out should feel challenging to some degree, the machine itself should still feel comfortable to use.

Durability and Construction

We looked for compact ellipticals with solid construction and durable builds, and we looked at warranty information as well—to ensure that each company stands by its product.

Portability 

One of the benefits of a compact elliptical is it can be more easily moved than larger, bulkier workout machines. So, we looked for models that could be shifted around with relative ease.

Value

A compact elliptical can be an investment, so we looked at overall value when considering options. Note: While we report the full price, without discounts, manufacturers often run specials and promotions that can help lower the cost.

Compact Ellipticals	Price	Refund policy	Warranty
NordicTrack X16 Elliptical	$2,299.99	If you are not satisfied with your purchase, you can request a return within 30 days of your delivery date. Returns will include a return shipping charge of $250, plus a 10% restocking fee.	Frame: 10 years, parts: 2 years, tablet: 1 year, labor: 1 year
BowFlex Max Trainer M6	$1,299	Return requests require authorization. BowFlex will authorize returns if you contact them to return your item within 30 days of receipt, and all items must be returned in new and working condition.	Frame: 10 years, mechanical parts: 2 years, electronics: 1 year, labor: 1 year
Horizon EX-59	$999	If you’re not 100% satisfied, just return it in 30 days for a full refund.	Frame: lifetime warranty; brake, flywheel, parts, labor: 1 year warranty
Sole E25	$1,299.99	If for any reason, the equipment doesn’t meet your expectations, you can return it within 30 days. A non-refundable return shipping fee of $300 + 10% restocking fee will be deducted.	Frame: lifetime; flywheel: lifetime, parts: 2 years, wear items: 2 years, labor: 1 year, cosmetic items: 90 days
Schwinn 411	$699	if you aren’t fully satisfied with your equipment within the first 30 days of delivery, you can return it for a full product refund (minus shipping and handling).	Frame: 10 years; mechanical parts: 2 years; electronics: 1 year; labor: 90 days

NordicTrack X16 Elliptical
Price	$2,299.99
Refund policy	If you are not satisfied with your purchase, you can request a return within 30 days of your delivery date. Returns will include a return shipping charge of $250, plus a 10% restocking fee.
Warranty	Frame: 10 years, parts: 2 years, tablet: 1 year, labor: 1 year
BowFlex Max Trainer M6
Price	$1,299
Refund policy	Return requests require authorization. BowFlex will authorize returns if you contact them to return your item within 30 days of receipt, and all items must be returned in new and working condition.
Warranty	Frame: 10 years, mechanical parts: 2 years, electronics: 1 year, labor: 1 year
Horizon EX-59
Price	$999
Refund policy	If you’re not 100% satisfied, just return it in 30 days for a full refund.
Warranty	Frame: lifetime warranty; brake, flywheel, parts, labor: 1 year warranty
Sole E25
Price	$1,299.99
Refund policy	If for any reason, the equipment doesn’t meet your expectations, you can return it within 30 days. A non-refundable return shipping fee of $300 + 10% restocking fee will be deducted.
Warranty	Frame: lifetime; flywheel: lifetime, parts: 2 years, wear items: 2 years, labor: 1 year, cosmetic items: 90 days
Schwinn 411
Price	$699
Refund policy	if you aren’t fully satisfied with your equipment within the first 30 days of delivery, you can return it for a full product refund (minus shipping and handling).
Warranty	Frame: 10 years; mechanical parts: 2 years; electronics: 1 year; labor: 90 days

Benefits of Compact Ellipticals

Here are some of the advantages of a compact elliptical. 

• Easier to fit in small spaces: Compact ellipticals are ideal for those living in smaller spaces, or people who simply want their fitness machine to take up the least amount of space possible. Because ellipticals can be designed to have the pedals move in more of an up-and-down motion, they often have a smaller footprint than treadmills.
  
• Convenience: A compact treadmill is meant for at-home use, and is excellent for people who prioritize convenience and efficiency. Compact ellipticals eliminate the trip to and from the gym, and all the things that go along with that—like storing your gym bag in a locker, finding an available machine, and so on.
  
• Low impact exercise: Working out on an elliptical is considered a lower-impact option because your feet remain on the pedals the entire time, versus lifting off and stepping down again as on a treadmill. For people who prioritize low-impact exercises, or even those who want a complement to their higher-impact training routine, a compact elliptical can provide low-impact but still rigorous workouts.

What to Avoid in Compact Ellipticals

As with any fitness machine, there are certain things we suggest avoiding.

• Very limited warranty: We recommend looking for an elliptical with a solid warranty, as exercise machines may show durability issues over time. 
• Poor construction: You want a compact elliptical that’s small yet sturdily built, as over time even a small wobble can evolve into something more irritating—or even unsafe. 
• Noisy machines: While an occasionally loud elliptical workout may be tolerable, a loud workout day after day could quickly become grating.

How to Find the Best Compact Ellipticals for You

We recommend considering these things when looking for a compact elliptical.

Your Space

How much space do you have in your home, and do you already have an idea of where you’d like to put an elliptical? If so, we recommend measuring to make sure that any machine you’re considering will fit well in that space, with some breathing room. 

Customization 

Some compact ellipticals offer more resistance levels or incline options, so think about how much you’d like to be able to customize your workouts. Many people may use the same few settings repeatedly, while others may want to vary workouts on a regular basis, or do an app-based workout that incorporates a variety of settings. Whatever your preference, make sure your compact elliptical can meet those needs.

Technology 

If you’re looking for a compact elliptical with app integration, there are multiple options in the lineup to choose from. Many of the machines also offer various other features, like Bluetooth connectivity and more. Think about what you’d actually use before choosing a machine.

Programming

Another thing to consider when choosing a compact elliptical, especially if you plan to use an app to work out: What types of workouts does that app actually offer, and what are the subscription fees? Not all fitness platforms are the same, so it’s worth doing some research before shopping for a compact elliptical instead of assuming any of the available workouts will be fine.

Fortune’s Final Thoughts

Our testers were generally pleased with their experiences testing compact ellipticals, with some wowed by the low noise levels, portability, and customizable workouts. We’d recommend a compact elliptical for people who want a convenient, low-impact exercise option, like those with packed calendars who want to optimize both their health and their schedules.

Frequently asked questions

Are compact ellipticals effective?

Compact ellipticals are like any other fitness machine in terms of efficacy: It depends on whether you’re using the machine properly, your personal wellness goals, whether you have any injuries, the amount of effort you expend, and your workout preferences. A compact elliptical can certainly offer an effective workout for some people, but it’s largely dependent upon user effort, correct usage, and making sure a compact elliptical is well-suited for your health needs and fitness goals.

What is the best compact elliptical machine?

We found the NordicTrack X16 Elliptical to be the best overall compact elliptical. Our tester loved the “floating on air” feeling while using it, and it was really quiet when in use. Our tester also appreciated the ability to truly customize her workout by adjusting stride, incline, and resistance level, making this an overall comfortable, quiet, versatile option.

What is the best elliptical to buy for home use?

A compact elliptical is useful at home, as its smaller footprint makes the machine easier to move around and less visually imposing. However, if you have a dedicated home gym or more space in your home, a larger model may also be fine. The “best” elliptical for home use comes down to personal preference. We think any of the models featured in our lineup above would be a strong choice.