10 Best Elliptical Under $200 For Your Home Gym: Sturdy & Affordable 2024

So, you’ve decided to take the leap towards healthy living and seek the best elliptical under 200 dollars to help you along the way.

This low-impact workout is great for all fitness levels and allows you to work on everything from muscle tone to cardio, and strength to general rushing endorphins.

As with all exercise machines, it is an equal balance of machine quality and how you apply yourself. So, with this in mind, we have laid out the best trainers the market has to offer.

What are The Best Elliptical Machines For Home Use?

This depends on whether you plan to sit or stand while using the machine. If you are setting up a whole home gym, then a standing option with sitting features is a great direction.

Provided you are going to sit down while exercising (especially for circulation and blood flow), then finding a choice that is compact and affordable is a great direction.

Ultimately, those that operate quietly, have adjustable resistance, and safety features make for the best workout buddies.

Is Elliptical Training a Cardio Workout?

In short, it can be. Basically, cardio depends on getting your heart rate elevated and keeping it there for a reasonably extended period of time.

For the best cardio results, choosing a standing model is the right way to go.

Naturally, you can see these results from a sitting option, though it will be harder on your thigh muscles overall.

Check your pulse routinely (first finding your resting heart rate) and use this to determine whether or not you achieve cardio success.

How Long Can You Do Elliptical?

One of the best parts of an elliptical machine is the fact that you can do it for extended periods of time.

In fact, some who use the tool for circulation promotion tend to go for hours a day (a way to earn that extra snack).

Others, who prefer to workout in short bursts tend to go for half an hour upwards.

Since exercise is entirely in your hands, it is totally up to you how long you work out.

Keep your health needs in mind and always follow doctors’ advice (especially when you are adding a workout routine into your regiment).

How Many Calories One Can Burn in The Elliptical Machine?

Like all other parameters, you measure calories by the intensity of the workout itself. This means that the harder you exercise, the more calories you burn.

In truth, calories are a measure of heat gained from the food you eat. One calorie is equal to the amount of energy it takes to heat one milliliter of water one degree.

This means that the harder your workout, the more you are able to burn off (this is actually why they call it burning calories).

That said, even working out slowly will shed calories over the long term. It is best to set goals and work towards achieving them – whether they be distance, calories, or otherwise.

Comparison of Best Elliptical Under 200

From volume to monitors, resistance to persistence, there are a lot of different factors you need to consider.

Read on and learn more about how these super user-friendly workout tools can jazz up your home gym and make exercising easy.

When you find the perfect product, everything else seems to fall into place.

Top 10 Best Elliptical Under $200 Reviews

01. Sunny Health & Fitness SF – E902 – Ideal for Long Strides

 

Depending on the length of your legs, the stride size of your elliptical machine must vary. Those with longer legs definitely require a machine that provides a lengthy and smooth stride.

It’s great since the machine allows you to go from full speed to cool down almost seamlessly.

With a weight capacity of 220 pounds, whether you are just starting a weight loss journey or are far along and looking for a supplement at home, this is the perfect tool.

Yet another draw of this piece is the ability to stow away. Perhaps you live in an apartment and what is most often your home gym has to double as a guest room.

Maybe you just want to tuck away the piece when you are having a down day. Either way, you can simply store this compact creature in the smallest area for easy and quick access.

Featuring a handy LCD monitor, the sunny side is that you are able to see every step of your progress as you move forward.

Whether you measure heartrate (critical for cardio) or simply ‘distance’ traveled, you can keep a pulse on your successes with this helpful item that comes standard with the model.

Highlighted Features

• Easy to store compact model
• Long pedals that promote balance
• Sturdy build great for entry-level

 

02. Stamina InMotion E1000 – Great for Compact Storage Needs

 

Let’s say you are highly restricted for space – how are you going to fit an entire workout machine into your area? This tool is a great solution for this exact situation.

With more and more of the world living in urbanized environments, the need to maximize space and quality is paramount.

This tool is both petite and high functioning, allowing you the most out of your exercise no matter what your space restraints.

Amongst the apartment living values, the quiet performance and high utility add amazing value. Especially if you live on an upper level, the silence is insanely helpful.

A cool fact is that the machine works whether you are sitting or standing so if you are really early on in your exercise routine, this tool will help you improve significantly.

If you are a passionate gamer (or just like binging TV) and are still looking to exercise, this choice will help you get there.

Highlighted Features

• Comes in three different colors
• Bold LCD display for keeping tabs on success
• Sturdy structure with slip resistance

 

03. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 – Perfect for Intense Workouts

 

This machine fits just as easily in a gym as a living room, making it the perfect workout partner for highly committed athletes.

Are you looking for an indoor option to complement your avid outdoor tendencies?

Perhaps you are looking to wait out the winter without putting on extra weight. If this is the case, then you have found your machine match.

Featuring everything from slip-resistant pads to 12 different levels of intensity, your whole body works out when you hop on this elliptical machine.

In the true spirit of an elliptical tool, your arms and legs engage simultaneously, putting your core muscles into gear with an intense cardio session.

The digital tracker keeps an eye on your vitals while you get your heart pumping.

Measure the calories you burn and the distance you travel as you rock forward on your journey to physical wellness.

It is low to the ground, promoting the balance of the machine as a whole, and features hand grips so that you can focus solely on your legs in spurts.

Highlighted Features

• Setup for whole body workout
• Full elliptical machine
• 12 levels of intensity

 

04. Sunny Health & Fitness – Great for High-Tech Needs

 

Let’s say you are at the office, working long hours. Deadlines abound and you find yourself dealing with mainly sedentary conditions.

This definitively affects not only your mood but your physical wellness as well. In order to remedy this, you choose to act by getting a desk-mate elliptical machine.

Using this, you can stay seated and keep trooping forward in the office without sacrificing your cardio welfare.

Placed under the desk, this compact tool works around popular office chairs and allows you to engage in exercise throughout the day.

A key benefit (especially if you are a busy bee) is that you don’t have to assemble the item whatsoever.

Since you benefit from the adjustment at eight different levels, no matter how well practiced you are as an athlete, there is a level of resistance for your needs.

Working with a magnetic system instead of hydraulics, you benefit from the best in modern technological developments.

Highlighted Features

• Digital monitoring for speed, calories burned, and more
• Comes fully assembled
• Compact and low volume
• Easy to maneuver in offices

 

05. Body Rider Elliptical – Best for Both Sitting and Standing

 

Chances are, the more intense you are about your exercise routine, the more demanding you become of the tools you choose.

Great news – this model incorporates countless functions for all your home gym needs.

Featuring an electric monitor display, you keep up to date (down to the second) about the distance you travel, the number of calories you have destroyed, and the speed you are journeying at.

Since this item also offers you the advantages of sitting, you can engage even more muscles.

This promotes overall tone and wellbeing while still giving you a top-notch cardio workout.

Even if you are just starting out on your weight loss journey, you can use this tool. Weighted to withstand up to 250 lbs., no matter how muscular or heavy you may be, this item is fit for you.

A fluid motion keeps your knees easy and the strength it features allows you to navigate between sitting and standing seamlessly.

Highlighted Features

• Works while sitting or standing
• Can withstand up to 250 lbs.
• Functions as elliptical and exercise bike

 

06. Jfit Adjustable Elliptical & Stepper – Ideal for Those On-The-Go

 

If you are looking for versatility, this machine is ideal for your needs. As the only under-the-desk elliptical machine that also works as a standup model, you can take this item wherever you go.

Since it is very quiet, you can add it to the workplace effortlessly (and with the approval of your colleagues).

Since it comes with a monitor, the quietness does not impact your ability to track progress. In fact, you stay up to date on everything including time, speed, and calorie count.

Given that leg, exercise is a great way to improve overall circulation (especially for those at sit-down jobs), your health benefits greatly from the tool itself.

If you have the kind of job that involves travel or selective commuting, this item lets you take it along so that you can keep to your workout resolutions without skipping a beat.

With pedals that you can adjust for angles, you will keep your ankles and knees strong while also maintaining heart health.

Highlighted Features

• Pedals with adjustable angles
• Maneuverable difficulty modes
• Works standing and sitting

 

07. Exerpeutic Magnetic Elliptical – Ideal for Making the Most out of Modern Times

 

As technology advances, so do exercise machines in general. This means a smoother function with increased performance ability.

You (the exerciser) benefit from a wide range of updates – most of which are apparent with this up to date model.

If you are looking for a smooth flow that keeps your knees easy and relaxed so that you can prevent impact injuries, this tool is great for your health demands.

Perhaps you are trying to kick your health plan into hyper-gear with the most modern features in performance monitoring.

Track your heartbeat with the added handle monitors while you get your blood pumping.

In addition to the smaller LCD monitor, the Bluetooth capacity adds incredible value.

Hook the system up to your computer to get a full, trackable printout of exactly what you are achieving.

The quiet model lets you rock a solid workout while jamming out to your favorite soundtrack or binging the best new show.

From high tech options to eight resistance levels, whatever you seek from an in-home exercise machine, this tool as what you desire.

Highlighted Features

• Great strength training features
• Modern display (Bluetooth to computer)
• Virtually silent model

 

08. ANCHEER Electrical Elliptical – Ideal for Gaining Leg Strength & Injury Rehab

 

Many people incur injuries throughout their lives; though, for athletically inclined individuals, it is far more common to experience repetitive stress injuries.

These occur when the system feels stress in the same areas due to repeated actions.

This exercise machine helps you heal from these injuries by making it easier than ever to keep your muscles active (thus avoiding atrophy) as well as to improve circulation overall.

With a monitor that keeps you constantly posted on all your success in exercise, you are able to track everything down to the second.

This allows you multiple measurement parameters, including distance, speed, and calorie count.

Since the machine is ideal for those in recovery, the non-slip pedals and firm on-the-ground traction keep you safe while you get your health and wellness back in check.

Highlighted Features

• Updated features for high functionality
• Safety focused design
• Encourages rehabilitation from injury
• In-built display for performance tracking

 

09. Body Rider Elliptical – Ideal for Entry Level Workouts

 

Maybe you are just moving out of the house and want to keep your health up while you study at college.

Perhaps you are just beginning to approach health and wellness as a whole and want a way to titrate this determination into your lifestyle.

If these describe you, then this is your perfect machine. The machine operates on a chain system, with a next to silent fan keeping you moving without overheating the system.

An overall compact design, it is close to the ground (great for balance) and can fit into even the smallest room.

Especially valuable to beginners is the user-friendly video that helps new exercisers on using the products.

Engage your arms and legs at the same time so that you can get the most out of cardio and strength training while you binge-watch television or listen to your favorite podcast.

Highlighted Features

• Comes with user directions
• Chain directed system
• Unique ellipsis design

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10. MaxKare Cardio Focused Elliptical – Perfect for High-Intensity Exercise

 

Are you committed to getting your cardio on track? Do you prefer to exercise in intense bursts rather than slow and steady? If this is the case, then this is the best item for you.

Especially if you are subject to impact damage to your joints (hips and knees), it is difficult to run or even to jog. Often, this can leave you without the option of cardio workouts.

So how do you get your heart pumping? This model is here to answer this question with smooth performance and user-friendly modalities.

An adjustable, magnetically operated resistance system gives you great flow while the smooth steps keep your heart pumping.

You can do this without putting extra strain on your system – save that for calorie burning. Since it is great for in the home, you can exercise whenever you have the energy and the quiet operation won’t wake up your neighbors.

Highlighted Features

• Quiet operating volume
• Easy to move around
• Bright LCD display
• Adjustable difficulty modes

Buying Guide of Best Elliptical Under 200

Now that you have taken the leap and decided that, yes, an elliptical machine is the best step for your workout regime, how do you decide on an item?

While this list highlights the best that the market has to offer, it also leaves a lot of different choices.

Before clicking that ‘add to cart button, take a look at these important notes to consider when choosing your machine.

When you find the perfect tool for your individual needs, it becomes even easier to work out (and more enjoyable). So, set yourself up for success by selecting a tool based on your unique requirements.

To sit or to stand?

Maybe you are the kind of person to whom exercise itself only really feels right when you are in a standing position. Or perhaps you are the type that wants to slowly integrate working out into your existing routine.

Do you need to spend more time at the office and have to sit down? Or is this something for around your house when it doesn’t matter the position, just that you get it done?

These parameters will largely dictate whether you need a sitting or standing machine. While some models allow for both, it is important to think about where you will use the tool the most.

Is this item going to live under your desk or couch? Do you have spacial limitations where you want to place the item?

If so, then find a model designed for sitting. If instead, you are seeking something to engage your whole body, then a standing model is what you need.

Bear in mind that the muscles you engage are mostly determined by what type of mechanics there are in the item itself.

Sit-down options engage the thighs even more than standing modes. That said, the standup types let your cardio go harder than their counterparts. Know your goals and get a tool to match.

Magnetic or hydraulic?

The type of operative system will determine both the noise and the longevity of the tool. While older models are typically hydraulically operated, they have also stood the test of time.

Magnetic types are great as well, allowing for precise resistance alterations without putting extra strain on the machine (or on yourself).

One fun fact to consider is the proximity to your CPU (or other electronics). Most modern and smart circuitry is not the best near to magnets; so, if you are placing the tool under a desk, it is better to stick with a hydraulic choice.

High-tech or simplistic?

If you are someone who loves the traditional, then chances are a high-tech monitor with Bluetooth compatibility is not the right direction for your needs.

While most models do feature LCD monitors for progress tracking, they can be as small as a couple of inches squared and serve to mostly just keep you on track.

If you are planning to use the machine to count steps or distance, then the simpler items should work out for you perfectly.

Provided you are on the other side of this coin, keep an eye out for more modern models. Some even feature Bluetooth compatibility so that you can track your successes on your PC or laptop.

If you are the type that enjoys fitness apps and wants to integrate technological innovations into your regular workout, then this is a great direction to go.

Decide what you want to track in your routine and how you want to get this information so that you can determine which of these choices is best for you.

Preassembled or put-together?

Perhaps you are amongst the mechanically savvy population and therefore have no trouble putting together equipment, this is likely less of a concern for you.

Most items on the market are pretty simple to place together and require limited time, tools, and effort. That said, if you are prone to losing interest in Lego, then chances are finding a premade tool is a better route.

There is nothing worse in exercise than quitting before you start, so take a realistic look at your skill set. If you aren’t comfortable with the setup, can you enlist a friend?

If not, then reduce your search to those which are already put together when you get them in the mail and save yourself the stress.

Arms, legs, or both?

Are you looking to improve circulation? If so, then try and find an item that works mainly on the legs with a ‘slow n’ steady’ philosophy.

Given this as a goal, then there is no need to worry about whole-body workouts or cardio in general. Perhaps, though, you seek a full-body workout where your arms can get in the game as well.

Not only does this help with weight loss and strength, by incorporating this extra system, but you also improve cardio as well.

Bear in mind, of course, that there are many options that feature both; though, like all machines, they work best when all components are firing.

So, if you know that you will be focusing solely on the legs, find a machine that accommodates this desire for the best results.

FAQs of Best Elliptical Machine Under 200 For Home Gym

What is the best elliptical to buy?

The best elliptical is the one that will work out best for your individual needs. Different items work in different ways.

Determine this by whether you want to sit or stand, how intensely you work out, and what you want from the machine itself.

Ultimately, the best machine is the one that you will use regularly. Exercise only works in practice, so finding the ideal tool is all about what you will be most inclined to use.

Make the most out of your time by keeping your blood flowing and muscles strong with a machine you truly like having. Check the specs and do your research – you will know it when you see it.

Is it helpful for senior people?

Seniors see huge benefits from elliptical machines. This is especially true in terms of circulation promotion and low impact benefits. As age progresses, joints naturally weaken.

Because of this, seniors typically need to adjust workouts to account for this risk of strain. With elliptical machines (especially the sitting models), the risk of damage reduces drastically.

Circulation means natural blood flow, and vessels tend to age as well. By keeping the blood pumping, oxygen travels more easily throughout the body promoting both muscular and overall health.

Does it actually burn belly fat?

Depending on how you use the machine, yes, ellipticals can burn belly fat. Typically, the best results come from standing models, since it is easier to engage your core in this position.

If you want to burn belly fat a great step is to include twists in your routine. Otherwise, find a model that uses arm motions as well. When all four appendages are operating, the core engages naturally.

For those sitting, try and ‘flex’ your core muscles to promote their strengthening. Keep an eye on your posture and focus on gaining strength and stamina. This readies you for future core exercise.

Does elliptical counts as steps?

Absolutely, an elliptical counts as steps and more. A great way to measure this parameter is on the LCD monitor which comes with most models.

This lets you track distance and shows you how far you travel (virtually, of course). Anything that uses gravity and gets your body moving is work you do. Keep your step counter handy to make the most out of digital points found on many different applications.

What is the difference between elliptical and stepper machines?

In short, the sliding feature is the key difference between the two. While a stepper is low impact, elliptical machines take this principle one step further.

With easy sliding, you get the benefit of stepping without the pressing action. This makes the machine particularly friendly for those with knee injuries where rehabilitation is key.

Not only this, but the smooth motion of the ellipses itself allows the arm movements to seamlessly incorporate.

Which is a better elliptical or treadmill or stationary bike?

All machines have inherent value and offer different benefits. Treadmills imitate the motion of jogging and running.

Stationary bikes at varying resistance levels mimic the action of everything from street biking to mountain biking.

Ellipses can get you the best of both in some ways since the steps engage the muscles of running and the leg work out of bicycling. A great note is that elliptical machines are solid for all athletic levels.

This means that whether you are new to working out or a seasoned veteran of exercise, you can get what you need out of an elliptical – be that cardio or toning.

How to Install Elliptical Machine By Yourself

In order to set up your machine, there are some pretty straightforward steps to help you along the way. Provided you are getting a machine that requires installation, take a look at this breakdown to make the most out of your time.

Remove Everything from The Packaging

First, take everything out of the box and make sure that you have all the necessary components.

If you need batteries, get them. Otherwise, lay everything out cleanly and logically to make the next steps as simple as possible.

Find the Manual

Whether it is online or in the box, all tools come with a user manual. Find it and take a look at the first page.

It will tell you if you need a friend to help, how long it should take, and any steps necessary before installation.

Get Your Tools Ready

It will break down the tools that you need to get the job done. Take them out of your toolbox (or ask a friend or neighbor). Get these laid out by your parts and you are set to get started.

Find A Place for The Item

Make sure you have a place for the featured item. Ensure that there is a clear path and that you have taken safety into consideration. Once you do this, great news, you are set to get to work.

Get to Work

Follow along with the user manual since it breaks down, step by step, the installation requirements.

Usually, this takes less than half an hour to find a good playlist and get the work done in one shot. This way you won’t lose your place or general gumption.

Exercise Away

Congratulations, you have set up your machine. Place it wherever you desire and get to working out – have fun!

Dos and Don’ts Points

To make the most out of your exercise endeavors, it is a great idea to avoid common pitfalls and follow the path of frequent successes. When you do, you will see the most results from your exercise journey.

Dos

• Stay hydrated (humans need water so keep some on hand when you are working out)
• Take it slow (start slowly and on low resistance and work your way up to harder levels)
• Take rest days (working out 7 days a week sounds novel, but a rest day once in a while keeps you strong and healthy)
• Take care of your machine (properly maintaining your machine keeps both the tool and its user in optimal condition)

Don’ts

• Overdo it (exercising too much can damage muscles and harm your long-term success)
• Overeat before working out (this can lead to bloating, acid reflux, and more nasty effects)
• Misuse your machine (treat the tool kindly and it will return the favor)

Elliptical Maintenance 

Generally speaking, every machine will have different maintenance requirements. After a while, you will get to know your machine quite well; its specific needs and demands.

That said, learning what you can at first will start you off on the right foot. Here are some helpful tips to keep the best elliptical under 200 running smoothly.

Keep it Clean

One of the best ways to ensure that your machine works at its best is to keep dust and debris from entering the system.

Wipe it down (this also prevents germs) and prevents dirt from accruing. This is probably the single best thing you can do to keep your elliptical machine operating smoothly.

Battery Operation

If your machine takes batteries, then make sure to keep an eye on them. Bear in mind that unused batteries tend to leak acid (thereby making the machine non-functional).

Make sure to remove the batteries on a regular basis to prevent this kind of harm.

Otherwise, just switch them out every few weeks to make sure the elliptical is running as well as possible and at full power.

Leave Some Space

All machines can overheat, so to prevent this from happening, give it some breathing room. Even just a foot of space with clear airflow will work to keep your machine happy.

Whether it runs on hydraulics or magnetics, the components themselves damage when overheated. Avoid this pitfall to increase shelf-life.

Take it Easy

Machines, just like people, are subject to wear and tear. Rest days are not just for you – they help your machine stay healthy as well.

If you do workout 7 days a week, then make sure to adjust the intensity on at least one of those days so that you don’t overwork the components.

This will promote the longevity of both the machine as a whole and its individual parts.

Follow the Manual

Typically, manuals will include a care option. This layout the way in which you can help your machine function properly and to the best of its abilities.

Follow the instructions carefully and thereby maximize your success with the machine in both the short and the long-term. Keep the handbook somewhere that is easy for you to access.

Most of the instructions are straightforward, but these tools are useful for troubleshooting and help answer any questions which may arise.

Conclusion

Now that we have taken a look at the critical features, hidden benefits, and pros and cons of the best elliptical under 200, chances are you are ready to start.

Remember that you make the most of the exercise when you find a machine which is best for you personally.

Take a look at the best the market has to offer and get ready to achieve your health goals and be your best self.