If you’re in the market for a budget elliptical cross trainer, you’re going to like what we’ve got to show you here. Hopefully, this guide will save you some time and some money picking your new cross trainer. And we love these machines. They offer a low-impact, safe way to shed calories and get in shape. So let’s get started with our top 5 trainers for under £200!
- Max weight(kg): 110kg
- Type of resistance: Magnetic resistance
- Performance monitor: LCD monitor displaying time, speed, distance, total distance, calories, RPM, and pulse rate.
- Max weight(kg): 120kg
- Flywheel weight(kg): 6kg
- Type of resistance: Magnetic
- Performance monitor: LCD digital monitor
- Max weight(kg): 120
- Type of resistance: Adjustable tension control
- Performance monitor: Informative LCD screen
- Max weight(kg): 120
- Type of resistance: Friction-free magnetic resistance with 8 levels
- Performance monitor: LCD readout with pulse facility
- Max weight(kg): 110kg
- Type of resistance: Adjustable resistance levels
- Performance monitor: Clear digital display
- Max weight(kg): 120kg
- Flywheel weight(kg): 6KG
- Type of resistance: Magnetic
- Performance monitor: LCD monitor displaying Time, Speed, Distance, Calories, Pulse, and Odometer
- Max weight(kg): 100 kilograms
- Type of resistance: Air resistance
- Performance monitor: LCD display with theoretical calories used, distance, scan, speed, and time
- Max weight(kg): 110kg
- Type of resistance: Manual
- Performance monitor: Multi Function LCD Display
Help buying and choosing a budget elliptical machine
Basically, every gym you walk into has ranks of ellipticals (also called cross trainers, there’s very little actual difference) alongside the other cardio systems.
This is incredibly impressive for a piece of kit that’s only existed in the fitness world for a short amount of time, as these things go.
It’s no wonder that home sales of ellipticals (cheap or premium) are just as high.
This guide goes into the best ellipticals you can buy on a budget, what to expect and which one is right for you.
Is it worth buying a budget cross-trainer?
As with everything fitness, the answer is the same. It depends on your goals. But for most people, the answer is a resounding yes.
An elliptical is a great source of cardio that will happily fit into a lot of health and fitness plans. On top of this, most people are going to notice the little quirks and issues a budget elliptical might have a lot less than they would with other pieces of kit, like treadmills and bikes.
Sunny Health & Fitness Legacy Stepping Elliptical Machine
This compact elliptical is ideal for small spaces, offering a solid build, quiet operation, and adjustable resistance. It's best for users looking for a space-saving and affordable cardio equipment with reliable performance.
Check Latest PriceExperience the tranquillity of a low-impact cardio workout with this compact elliptical machine. It�s like having a mini gym tucked away in your home, without the loud grunts of weightlifters. The machine is whisper-quiet and boasts an adjustable resistance knob, providing a peaceful workout that won't disturb your pets. Additionally, it doesn't require any power plug; hence, your electricity bill will remain unaffected.
People love this elliptical for its easy assembly and smooth operation. Its robust build ensures durability, offering you a full-body workout that's so quiet, it won't even disturb a pin drop. It's also a budget-friendly addition to your home, an attribute often hard to find in the fitness equipment market.
However, it does have some minor drawbacks. The handles, once attached, significantly increase its size, so ensure you have enough storage space. The tension cable might require some patience to set up, and the customer support service could be a little challenging to reach. The resistance dial also tends to be a bit fickle.
Compared to its counterparts, this elliptical machine is a champion of space-saving and offers whisper-quiet workouts. However, be prepared for its increased size once the handles are attached and a potentially tricky tension cable assembly. But remember, patience is key.
In the vast universe of elliptical machines, this model shines bright. It's ideal for those seeking a quiet, hassle-free cardio session and who value a machine that respects their living space. Although it may test your assembly skills and the customer service could be improved, the advantages far outweigh these minor inconveniences. The machine is not only gentle on your floors but also on your wallet, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious fitness enthusiasts.
- Compact and Space-saving: Doesn't take up much room and can be easily pushed around for convenient storage.
- Solid Build: Feels sturdy once assembled, providing a reliable and durable workout experience.
- Quiet Operation: Minimal noise makes it suitable for use without disturbing others.
- Adjustable Resistance: Easy to change resistance levels for a customized and effective workout.
- Good Value for Money: Offers great quality and features at an affordable price point.
- Misleading Size: The actual dimensions with handles attached are larger than listed, leading to storage challenges.
- Difficult Tension Cable Assembly: Connecting the tension cable can be challenging and time-consuming.
- Ineffective Customer Support: Limited or no customer support available, especially for UK customers.
Dripex Magnetic Elliptical Cross Trainer
Sturdy, reliable and ideal for people who prefer home workouts. Dripex's elliptical offers smooth resistance and multiple tracking features, making each session effective.
Check Latest PriceWhat we liked:
I appreciate the Dripex Magnetic Elliptical Trainer's solid build quality and compact size. Its dual handlebars and ultra-smooth magnetic resistance system offer a full-body workout. The 14-inch step distance provides a good range of motion. It's also incredibly quiet, operating at just 20 dB. The device holder is a handy addition, allowing me to watch videos during sessions. Plus, the transportation wheels make it easy to move.
The bottle holder, large non-slip pedals and LCD display for key metrics like time and calories burned are great features.
The sturdy alloy steel frame supports up to 54.4kg and its 6kg flywheel offers smooth motion. It's designed to fit users between 4'9" and 6'1". I find it easy enough to assemble and it's received positive feedback for its build quality and value.
What we didn't like:
What could be better? Some users mentioned the display's plasticky feel. It doesn't allow you to lock onto a single element, which can be annoying. There's also feedback about it slightly rocking on carpets. Assembly issues, like reversed pedal threading, trip some up. Notably, returning the 32.3kg product can be tricky and costly.
How does it compare to similar ellipticals?
The Dripex trainer competes well with other home-use ellipticals. It offers quiet operation and a sturdy build. Unlike some competitors, it includes thoughtful features like a device holder and transportation wheels. However, premium models might offer better displays and smoother assembly instructions.
Verdict: Is it worth a buy?
The Dripex Magnetic Elliptical is ideal for home workouts, balancing cost and features well. It's best for users looking for efficient, space-saving equipment. Potential buyers should weigh the pros against the assembly and return challenges.
- Smooth operation: Magnetic resistance ensures quiet workouts with minimal disturbances.
- Real-time tracking: Monitor provides data on time, speed, distance, calories and pulse.
- Solid construction: Heavy-duty iron frame supports users up to 120kg.
- Convenient features: Includes bottle and device holders, plus transport wheels for easy relocation.
- Adjustable resistance: Eight levels of magnetic resistance suit all fitness levels.
- Display quality: The screen feels light and plasticky.
- Assembly challenges: Some users found assembly instructions difficult, particularly regarding pedal installation.
- Data display limitations: Cannot set the monitor to display only one metric.
Xerfit 2-in-1 Air Cross Trainer
This Xerfit 2-in-1 Air Cross Trainer is ideal for those seeking a durable, compact, and affordable elliptical for home workouts. With its smooth and quiet operation, adjustable resistance levels, and low-impact design, it's a great value for money.
Prices checked: 20th January, 01:08:41
If you're seeking a reliable fitness partner that fits seamlessly into your living room without making a racket, look no further. This machine is impressively sturdy and silent, allowing you to enjoy your favourite shows without interruption. Its standout features include an adjustable resistance, ergonomic pedals that provide unparalleled comfort, and an effective calorie burner.
Assembly is straightforward and speedy, and the display provides a clear and concise overview of your progress. Moreover, it's a cost-effective option that is gentle on the joints - a wise choice for people aiming to stay fit without straining their finances or their knees.
However, it's not without its drawbacks. The stride could be longer for those seeking a wider range, and the console might disappoint tech enthusiasts. Also, it lacks an incline feature and the variety of preset programs is somewhat limited. Some may find the occasional noise disruptive to their workout routine.
Compared to similar models, this budget-friendly option holds its own with its robust construction and compact design. While it may not have all the extras of more expensive models, its value for money is undeniable, offering a satisfactory workout that doesn't break the bank.
So, should you invest? If you're new to fitness or simply prefer a less complicated approach to exercise, the answer is a resounding 'yes'. This machine offers a direct and affordable route to wellness without causing unnecessary stress to your body or your budget.
- Durable and Long-lasting: Users appreciate the elliptical's sturdy construction and durability for long-term use.
- Smooth and Quiet Operation: Customers praise the machine's smooth and quiet performance during workouts.
- Compact and Space-Saving: Buyers value the elliptical's compact design, ideal for small living spaces.
- Adjustable Resistance Levels: Users enjoy the ability to customize their workout intensity with multiple resistance levels.
- Comfortable Foot Pedals: Customers find the ergonomic foot pedals comfortable for extended use.
- Limited Stride Length: Some users find the stride length to be shorter than expected, leading to a less natural range of motion.
- Basic Console Features: Buyers note that the console lacks advanced features found in higher-end models, limiting workout variety.
V-fit MCCT-2 Magnetic 2-in-1 Combination Cycle-Elliptical Trainer
This V-Fit MCCT-2 Magnetic 2-in-1 Combination Cycle-Elliptical Trainer is perfect for those looking for a reliable, quiet, and easy-to-assemble workout option at an affordable price.
Prices checked: 20th January, 01:08:43
Seeking an elliptical machine that's hard-wearing and unwavering? This fitness companion ensures a solid, steady experience, devoid of shakes and wobbles. The robust construction promises longevity, resisting wear and tear from frequent use.
Assembling this machine is straightforward. The instructions are clear, minimizing the potential for frustration. All components fit seamlessly, although the small print might require a closer look. Nonetheless, it's a manageable task.
Experience near-silent workouts with this elliptical, replicating the quiet glide of a stealthy ninja. Its silent drive system ensures a peaceful, smooth exercise session, free from mechanical noises.
Boasting eight levels of magnetic resistance, this machine offers a low-impact, joint-friendly workout while challenging your muscles. The adjustable seat provides customised comfort, and the LCD display offers valuable fitness insights as your own personal trainer would.
This elliptical offers excellent value for money, standing out amongst other sub-£200 options. It's a cost-effective, quality piece of fitness equipment that supports efficient calorie burning without straining your budget.
In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for an affordable yet reliable elliptical, look no further. It offers a smooth ride from assembly to the final exertion, providing a gym-like experience at home without burdening your finances or damaging your floors.
- The sturdy build: Users find the elliptical machine and bike combo to be sturdy and durable, providing a reliable workout experience.
- Easy Assembly: Customers appreciate the ease of assembly, with clear instructions and well-fitted bolts and washers.
- Quiet Operation: Users are pleased with the quiet operation of the machine, allowing for a peaceful workout environment.
- Assembly Instructions: Some users found the assembly instructions could be improved with larger print for easier following.
Xs Sports Pro 2-in-1 Elliptical Cross Trainer Exercise Bike
This 2-in-1 exercise bike and elliptical cross trainer offers a sturdy build, easy resistance adjustment, and clear digital display. It's best for users seeking a budget-friendly, multi-functional workout machine with good customer service.
Check Latest PriceEmbarking on a fitness journey need not be an expensive endeavour. The robust, chip-resistant frame of this elliptical cross trainer exercise bike is budget-friendly, capable of supporting up to 110 kilograms, making it suitable for a wide range of people. It also comes with a 12-month warranty, offering year-long protection.
Among its standout features are its solid build, easily adjustable resistance, and a digital display for workout data. However, some assembly is required and the seat could prove uncomfortable for some. Also, the machine does emit some noise during operation and the tension might not be as high as some fitness enthusiasts would prefer.
Despite some drawbacks, this dual-purpose fitness machine still stands out among its peers for its sturdy nature and easy resistance adjustment. While some competitors may be quieter or more comfortable, it offers a full-body workout without straining your budget. However, keep in mind it may test your assembly skills and endurance for noise. After assessing your needs and weighing the pros and cons, this could potentially be a worthy addition to your home gym.
- Sturdy and Well Built: Users appreciate the machine's solid construction and stability during use.
- Easy Resistance Adjustment: Quick and effortless changes to resistance levels for varied workouts.
- Clear Digital Display: The machine's digital display is easy to read and provides essential workout information.
- Good Customer Service: Users value the responsive and helpful customer service provided by the seller.
- Value for Money: The machine offers good value for its affordable price point.
- Difficult Assembly: Users find the assembly process challenging and the instructions unclear.
- Uncomfortable Seat: The seat is hard and uncomfortable, requiring additional padding or cover for comfort.
- Noisy Operation: The machine produces noticeable noise during use, which can be disruptive.
- Limited Tension: Some users feel that the tension levels do not provide a significant workout challenge.
- Flimsy Feel: Despite being sturdy, some users perceive the machine as weak and flimsy.
Dripex Cross Trainer Elliptical Machine
This Dripex cross trainer provides a comprehensive full-body workout with its 13.2lbs flywheel and 8 adjustable levels of magnetic resistance. Its quiet and smooth operation, along with the advanced LCD monitor, make it an excellent choice for home fitness enthusiasts.
Prices checked: 20th January, 01:08:54
Introducing a budget-conscious, robust elliptical option that could be the saviour of your home fitness regime. This compact, multi-functional machine is not a significant financial investment. However, is it all positive? Let's delve deeper.
Ever endured a noisy workout? Not with this device. Remarkably quiet, it allows for peaceful TV or music enjoyment during exercise. Moreover, it's built to last, ready to outlive your extra holiday weight.
But it's not flawless. Serious athletes might find the resistance levels lacking. And those who seek variety may miss pre-set programmes.
When competing with other ellipticals under £200, this machine impressively holds its own. Despite not being the ultimate in resistance, it offers superior build quality and incredibly quiet operation.
So, what's the verdict? If you're seeking an affordable, durable, and whisper-quiet elliptical, this could be the one. However, it may not provide the challenge advanced users desire. For people striving to maintain an active lifestyle without straining their finances, it's a contender worth considering.
- Great full body workout: Users appreciate the machine's ability to provide a comprehensive workout for the entire body.
- Strong and sturdy build: Customers value the equipment's durability and reliability for long-term use.
- Smooth and quiet operation: Users commend the cross trainer for its quiet and smooth performance during workouts.
- Limited resistance levels: Some users find the resistance levels on this cross trainer to be somewhat limited for advanced workouts.
- Lack of pre-set programs: A few customers wish for more pre-set workout programs to add variety to their routines.
Body Sculpture BE5916 Dual-Action Air Elliptical Cross-Trainer
This elliptical offers portability, adjustable air resistance, and a variety of features for an affordable price. It's suitable for users looking for a compact and budget-friendly workout solution.
Prices checked: 20th January, 01:08:52
Looking for a compact and lightweight training companion? The perfect puzzle piece that slots neatly into your home space is here. With adjustable air resistance, this piece of equipment is versatile, catering to your desired workout intensity.
Envision a workout that feels like a supportive embrace, with soft-grip foam handlebars and anti-slip footholds. This elliptical trainer offers a comfortable and secure exercise experience. However, it's not as quiet as a library, and it might sound like a kettle boiling during intense workouts, which might not be ideal for those who prefer tranquillity.
Despite its strong performance in terms of affordability and portability, it doesn't boast a wealth of features. So, while it's a bang for the buck and a space saver, it might not satisfy those yearning for a feature-packed device.
So here's the verdict - for people seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly, and space-efficient fitness machine, it's a worthy consideration. However, if you value silence during your workouts or crave high-tech features, you might want to explore other options.
- Lightweight and Portable: Users find it easy to move and store due to its lightweight design.
- Affordable Price: Customers appreciate the budget-friendly cost of this elliptical machine.
- Compact Size: The space-saving design makes it ideal for small living spaces.
- Quiet Operation: Users enjoy the quiet and smooth performance during workouts.
- Adjustable Resistance: The ability to customize resistance levels provides a tailored workout experience.
- Loud Operation: Some users find the machine to be noisy during use, which can be disruptive.
- Limited Features: The basic features may not be sufficient for advanced or experienced users.
Pro XS Sports 2-in-1 Elliptical Cross Trainer Exercise Bike
This Pro XS Sports 2-in-1 Elliptical Cross Trainer Exercise Bike is ideal for those seeking an affordable yet effective home fitness option. With a sturdy build, adaptable resistance, and compact size, it's a convenient choice for various users.
£159.97 From Amazon UKImagine an affordable yet robust fitness machine that performs like a trusted companion. The Pro XS Sports 2-in-1 is that machine, providing a value-for-money workout experience despite the initial assembly challenges. Once set up, the experience is entirely seamless, as if gliding through the air.
Perfect for a small workout space, this device neatly packs away post-workout. It's a versatile fitness tool, precisely targeting muscles, and offering swift customer service response. However, occasional noise issues and minor assembly difficulties are a slight downside.
This device may not boast the premium features of its costly rivals, but it offers unmatched value. Despite the minor assembly hiccups and some questionable design features, it remains a worthy contender in its price range.
Our verdict: It's an excellent choice for people seeking to enhance their fitness level without shrinking their living space or budget. Be ready for a little assembly challenge, but once that's overcome, it could be your next fitness partner.
- Sturdy Build: The machine feels sturdy and durable during use, providing a reliable workout experience.
- Good Workout: Users report that the machine delivers a satisfying and effective workout.
- Easy Assembly: Despite some fiddly parts, the assembly is manageable and straightforward.
- Affordable: Offers good value for money as an affordable home fitness option.
- Responsive Service: Users appreciate the prompt and helpful customer service for replacements and repairs.
- Bolts Working Loose: Some users experience issues with bolts and nuts working loose and requiring frequent tightening.
- Noise: The machine can be quite loud during use, which may be disruptive in certain settings.
- Assembly Instructions: Some find the assembly instructions to be unclear or lacking in detail, leading to challenges during setup.
Manufacturers are also taking notice and in the last few years, there’s been a flood of budget models hitting the market, giving you far more options to choose from.
If an elliptical is something that you’re going to be relying on as your main focus of fitness, we’d recommend investing a little more, but for the majority of people out there, any of the ellipticals on this list would be a great addition to their home gym.
How to choose a decent cheap elliptical: A buyer’s guide
When you’re buying exercise equipment on a budget, it’s a good idea to set expectations and have an idea about what’s most important, so you can make the right choice.
A lower price tag means fewer overall features and the manufacturers will have made choices about what to focus on, what to keep and what isn’t important to a consumer looking to buy a budget elliptical. Here’s what you should pay attention to when making your choice.
If you’re looking for an elliptical and you’re under 6 feet, check out our Best Ellipticals For Short People guide.
The flywheel
The single most important part of any elliptical is the flywheel. It’s the beating heart of the machine. The part that provides all of the resistance and so the part that decides whether you’re going to be able to work out effectively.
Cheaper ellipticals tend to have smaller flywheels, on average. But smaller doesn’t mean ineffective. Several of the systems featured in our list have flywheels that weigh around
which is a solid weight that can provide a decent amount of resistance
Magnetic resistance
When looking at ellipticals, pay close attention to whether it uses silent magnetic resistance. (SMR.)
SMR, sometimes just called magnetic resistance, means that the flywheel uses magnets instead of friction to provide its resistance as you exercise. The range of ways in which this improves your workouts is huge, including smooth resistance throughout every rep, less wear on the machine so it lasts longer, far less noise and more.
Put simply, if you can buy an elliptical with magnetic resistance, do it.
Getting to know your elliptical’s display
One of the biggest differences between cheap and expensive exercise gear is the consoles.
At the higher end, it’s common to see integrated touch screens, built-in workout apps and big, powerful speakers. But these are all expensive and can really jack up the cost of a machine.
But it’s becoming a lot more common for even the cheapest exercise machines to let you link your own phones and tablets via Bluetooth, giving you the same benefits as a touchscreen, without increasing the cost.
Overall build quality
Cheaper ellipticals tend to be built less sturdily and with weaker, thinner materials than more expensive models. In most circumstances, this won’t make a difference to performance, but it does tend to mean a few things:
- The overall weight limit will be lower
- Fittings like the seat and handles will be cheaper and less comfortable
- Expect more noise in operation
- Lower overall lifespan and needing to be replaced earlier
