Table of Contents
Seated elliptical machines can be an incredibly way to get active during a typically sedentary activity.
Whether you are watching TV, reading, or working at a desk, a seated elliptical machine can help you tone your lower body and improve your cardiovascular health.
These machines are also the best for low-impact exercise since they put even less strain on your joints and muscles than a standard elliptical machine.
Their portability also guarantees that you can use them at home and at work.
If you’re tired of living a sedentary life and want to take steps towards better fitness, a seated elliptical machine is the way to do that.
There are a lot of things to consider when choosing a seated elliptical machine.
The price, portability, resistance levels, and overall design all influence how well a certain machine will fit into your life.
Some models are better for busy environments, and some can function as full-body workout machines.
To help you select the best seated elliptical machine, we have investigated 24 products over 34 hours, and thoughtfully considered 544 consumer reviews.
Following our last update, we recommend the Cubii JR1 Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine for its quiet operation, easy assembly, and high quality design.
In a rush? Buy it Now on Amazon!
Seated Elliptical Machine Comparative Table
| Product | Summary | Rating | Price | |
|
TOP PICK
|
Cubii JR1 Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine
|
|
9.5/10 | See price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
UPGRADE PICK
|
Cubii F3A1 Pro Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine
|
|
9.8/10 | See price on Amazon |
|
BUDGET PICK
|
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872 Magnetic Portable Elliptical Machine
|
|
8.8/10 | See price on Amazon |
Our Pick for The Best Seated Elliptical Machine
Cubii JR1 Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine Review
The Best Overall
Cubii
If you’re in the market for a seated elliptical machine that is an all-around great product, the Cubii JR1 Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine is right for you. It is really quiet to prevent introducing a distraction into your work or home life, and it offers some great connectivity, too.
Cubii JR1 Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine Video Review
What We Think of The Cubii JR1 Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine
This Cubii JR1 seated elliptical machine is one of the best products on the market. It weighs just under 28 lbs so won’t be too difficult to move around to new places as needed, and it is functional as a seated model and a stand up model. As a result, it has a weight capacity of 250 lbs, which is about as good as it gets for a product of this type. A one-year warranty is included to protect your investment, and you will have to spend a decent amount of money on this model.
One thing we love about this machine is that is can connect to the Cubii app. This allows you to connect with a community, access classes, set goals and track your progress towards achieving them, as well as viewing your complete workout history. The physical monitor on the machine also allows you to track your calories burned, distance travelled, strides, RPM, and total time.
This is one of the most brilliant products I have ever stumbled upon. I live in a small apartment but don’t do well in busy places, so the gym is not an option for me. This is the one exercise machine I can fit in my one bedroom place, and it really does get my heart rate up. I use it for a couple hours while I’m working at home, and then I use it again when I read or watch TV. I love it!
nathan l.
There are eight different resistance levels you can choose from in order to provide a safe starting point but also allow you to develop your fitness as you go. This unit will only take 3-4 minutes to assemble, and while it’s on, it will be as quiet as whisper to ensure the smallest amount of disruption to your activities as possible. We really don’t see a reason not to buy this product.
Cubii JR1 Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 23.1” x 17.6” x 10”
- Weight: 27.6 lbs
- Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 8
- Connectivity: Cubii app
- Warranty: 1 year
Cubii JR1 Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Monitor tracks calories burned, distance, strides, RPM, and time
- Has a compatible app to connect with the Cubii community, access classes, set goals and track progress, and view workout history
- Assembly takes only 3-4 minutes
- Very quiet operation
Cons
- Fairly pricey
Our Final Opinion about the Cubii JR1 Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Cubii JR1 Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine is a great choice for pretty much anyone. It isn’t quite as affordable as we’d like, but for the quality you’re getting, it truly is worth it. It’ll only take a few minutes to put together, and then you’ve got a great workout machine at your service, anywhere.
Our Upgrade Pick for a Seated Elliptical Machine
Cubii F3A1 Pro Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine Review
The High Performance Pick
Cubii
There isn’t a lot that sets one seated elliptical machine apart from another, but if you’re looking for a model that takes each feature to a new level, the Cubii F3A1 Pro Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine is right for you. It’s expensive, but there is no better seated elliptical machine on the market.
Cubii F3A1 Pro Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine Video Review
What We Think of The Cubii F3A1 Pro Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine
This Cubii Pro is essentially the upgraded version of our top pick. This model is quite a bit more expensive and will require a power source, but it is certainly worth the extras you need to put in. This model is outfitted with Bluetooth connectivity, so while it connects to the Cubii app just like the JR1 model, this one can also connect to fitness trackers like Fitbit and Apple HealthKit to give you a more well-rounded experience.
This model also has eight different resistance levels (you’ll find this is constant trend for these products), and takes only a few minutes to set up. All you need to do is attach the foot pedals. Once again, the Cubii app will allow you to connect with the Cubii community, access classes, and view workout history, so everything you need can be found at the tips of your fingers.
I never imagined spending this much on a small exercise machine would actually feel worth it, but I am of the mentality that you should choose the best of everything for the greatest chance of success. For once, that mentality did not waste me money. This machine is very easy to use, and the app is honestly the best part. I love staying connected and tracking my progress as time goes on.
howie b.
This model does not have a monitor attached to let you track progress during the workout, but you can access it all through the app. It can be used as a stand up model as well as a seated one, so the weight capacity of 250 lbs is something you should adhere to in order to protect yourself and the machine from harm. This model is also very quiet while in use and is portable enough to be taken anywhere.
Cubii F3A1 Pro Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 22.8” x 17.2” x 9.8”
- Weight: 27 lbs
- Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 8
- Connectivity: Cubii app, Fitbit, and Apple HealthKit
- Warranty: 1 year
Cubii F3A1 Pro Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Very quiet
- Very easy to assemble (takes only 3-4 minutes)
- Compatible app lets you connect with the Cubii community, access classes, and view workout history
- Can sync via Bluetooth
Cons
Cons
- Very expensive
- Requires a USB power source
Our Final Opinion About the Cubii F3A1 Pro Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 2.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Cubii F3A1 Pro Seated/Under-Desk Elliptical Machine is a great choice for anyone with a budget large enough to afford it. Its Bluetooth connectivity is a feature quite unique to this model, and it is still just as quiet and easy to assemble as you’d expect it to be. This one will require a USB power source, though.
Our Budget Pick for a Seated Elliptical Machine
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872 Magnetic Portable Elliptical Machine Review
The Budget Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness
Not all seated elliptical machines need to demolish your bank account, and the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872 Magnetic Portable Elliptical Machine is one that is both affordable and offers some great features. It won’t require any assembly, and it is adaptive enough to suit every skill level.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872 Magnetic Portable Elliptical Machine Video Review
What We Think of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872 Magnetic Portable Elliptical Machine
Sunny Health & Fitness is a very popular brand in the exercise equipment world, and for good reason. They are known for making products that are accessible to everybody with affordable prices, but they don’t scrimp on features to save money either. It’s no surprise that their portable elliptical machine is our best budget pick, because it has all of the quality for an affordable, budget-friendly price.
Weighing only 24.2 lbs, this model is great for travelling. It has a handle between the foot pedals to make it easier to carry, and it even comes fully assembled to take one small chore off your plate. This model can be used as a stand up machine as well, but you do need to take note that its weight limit is 30 lbs lighter than normal at only 220 lbs.
I love my Sunny Health and Fitness mini elliptical. It fits perfectly under my desk at home so I can stay active even when I’m seated. It keeps me feeling good about my activity level throughout the day, and it’s really easy to move around the house whenever I need to. I let my husband use it and now he wants one for work as well, so we have ordered another one.
laura t.
Eight resistance levels allow you to fine tune each session to your experience, and it is also great to allow people of various fitness levels to use the same machine. There is no connectivity offered by this machine, but it does have a built in monitor to track your time, speed, calories burned, and distance. The non-slip pedals ensure you’ll feel secure no matter your footwear.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872 Magnetic Portable Elliptical Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 11” x 24” x 19”
- Weight: 24.2 lbs
- Weight Capacity: 220 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 8
- Connectivity: None
- Warranty: 1 year
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872 Magnetic Portable Elliptical Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Digital monitor can track time, speed, calories, and distance
- Effective non-slip pedals for increased security
- Centralized handle makes it easily portable
- Comes fully assembled
Cons
- Lower weight capacity than average
- No connectivity available
Our Final Opinion About the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872 Magnetic Portable Elliptical Machine
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3872 Magnetic Portable Elliptical Machine is a great piece of workout equipment that is accessible to every income level. The digital monitor tracks all of the important stats and we guarantee you’ll feel very secure in any footwear type.
Alternative Products to Consider
Stamina 55-1621 InMotion Compact Strider Review
The Full-Body Alternative
Stamina
While seated elliptical machines are great for leg toning and strengthening your heart, they don’t do much for the rest of your body. That’s where the Stamina 55-1621 InMotion Compact Strider comes in. It allows you to work your entire body at once to provide a quick and effective full-body workout.
Stamina 55-1621 InMotion Compact Strider Video Review
What We Think of the Stamina 55-1621 InMotion Compact Strider
If you’re looking for a full body workout but don’t have a lot of space for a gym setup, this compact strider might be the perfect solution. It has all the lower body and cardio benefits of a standard seated elliptical machine, but it comes with some resistance bands to train your upper body at the same time. You can do this while sitting down or standing up as well, so you really have the opportunity to customize your workouts.
This model does have a weight capacity of 250 lbs, and for your safety and the integrity of the machine, you should adhere to its limitations. This model weighs only 24 lbs, so it is one of the lightest and most portable machines you can buy. This seated elliptical doesn’t have any connectivity, but it does come with a workout DVD to help you get started with your fitness training.
My wife and I brought this with us on our last road trip. It fit perfectly in the passenger wheel well, so we could each stay a bit more active while the other was driving. It really helped us stay energized and avoided all of the aches that are usually associated with a trip like that. We will be bringing this machine with us every time now, it helped that much.
jonny m.
This machine is a little bit different from most since it has an adjustable dial as its resistance method rather than a set number of presets. This will be more ideal for a single user than multiple, but it really allows you to increase the resistance at your own pace. The fitness monitor is pretty standard and will display stats like your number of strides per minute, total number of strides, exercise time, and calories burned. It can also scan all stats.
Stamina 55-1621 InMotion Compact Strider Specifications
- Dimensions: 24” x 18” x 12”
- Weight: 24 lbs
- Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
- Resistance Levels: Adjustable dial
- Connectivity: None
- Warranty: 1 year
Stamina 55-1621 InMotion Compact Strider Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Comes with exercise bands to work your upper body
- Quite affordable
- Fitness monitor displays number of strides per minute, total number of strides, exercise time, and calories burned or scan all stats
- Comes with a workout DVD
Cons
- Latex resistance bands not ideal for people with allergies
Our Final Opinion About the Stamina 55-1621 InMotion Compact Strider
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Stamina 55-1621 InMotion Compact Strider is the best choice for individuals who would like to tone their upper body as well as their lower. Since this is a high quality model that even comes with a workout DVD, we are very happy that its affordability makes it accessible to everybody.
Stamina 55-1610 InMotion Elliptical Trainer Review
The Basic Alternative
Stamina
If you’re looking for a simpler machine to help you stay active during traditionally sedentary activities, then the Stamina 55-1610 InMotion Elliptical Trainer. It doesn’t have a lot going on, so it’s ideal for people looking for a basic machine that is easy to use and still fully functional.
What We Think of The Stamina 55-1610 InMotion Elliptical Trainer
This is the ideal model if you aren’t looking for anything super sophisticated or high tech. It doesn’t have any connectivity, so all of your information will be delivered on the built in monitor. It displays the most important stats (strides, time, and calories burned), but doesn’t offer any additional information about your workout.
This seated elliptical machine can also be used as a stand up model, so you should adhere to the weight limit of 250 lbs. We understand that this isn’t the most inclusive capacity, but it is the best these machines can do considering their size. This model is made of a highly durable alloy steel, so we have high expectations for its lifespan and its ability to handle the wear that everyday use will put on this machine.
I really chose this machine over a couple others I was looking at because this one just seemed a lot easier to me. As an older gentleman, I just wanted a machine that wouldn’t cost a lot of my money and wouldn’t be difficult to figure out. I’m not very techy, as my granddaughter would say. I like this machine because I feel secure and it has helped relieved some of my stiffness in my legs.
jonas k.
The non-slip pedals will have you feeling very secure no matter how you are using the machine, and you can feel free to use different footwear types as well depending on your location. This model is highly affordable, and is another that uses an adjustable dial to modify the resistance level rather than having a bunch of presets. If you are looking for a simple machine, this is the ideal choice.
Stamina 55-1610 InMotion Elliptical Trainer Specifications
- Dimensions: 17” x 24.5” x 11.4”
- Weight: 24 lbs
- Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
- Resistance Levels: Adjustable dial
- Connectivity: None
Stamina 55-1610 InMotion Elliptical Trainer Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Highly affordable
- Monitor tracks strides, exercise time, and calories
- Non-slip pedals keep you feeling secure
- Highly durable alloy steel construction
Cons
- No connectivity and limited workout information tracked
Our Final Opinion About the Stamina 55-1610 InMotion Elliptical Trainer
Quality 3.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Stamina 55-1610 InMotion Elliptical Trainer is a machine that is lacking sophistication. While some people will feel it isn’t worth spending money on, it is priced very fairly and is ideally suited to people wanting a high quality machine that is simple and easy.
ANCHEER Under Desk Electric Mini Elliptical Machine Review
The User-Friendly Alternative
Ancheer
There is nothing more convenient than a remote control for electronic products, and this ANCHEER Under Desk Electric Mini Elliptical Machine is a perfect example of that. You’ll have the convenience of changing modes and speeds without ever reaching down to touch the machine. Does it get better than that?
ANCHEER Under Desk Electric Mini Elliptical Machine Video Review
What We Think of the ANCHEER Under Desk Electric Mini Elliptical Machine
This is one of the more unique seated elliptical machines on the market. Its manual mode is the standard elliptical functionality, with 5 different resistance settings and a reliance on your mechanical energy to turn the pedals. The auto mode, on the other hand, is a 3-speed mode that takes the work out of the process. This is an awesome way to increase blood flow without straining any injured or weak muscles.
This model is not one that comes with any connectivity, but you will still have the opportunity to keep track of your progress through the built in monitor. It reliably tracks your time, distance, speed, and calories burned, and it can also scan through all of the stats on a rotation. Believe it or not, this model even comes with a remote control to help you make changes without bending over and actually interacting with the machine.
I do not regret getting this mini elliptical machine in the slightest. I wasn’t totally convinced I would really use it all that much, but I wanted to give myself a chance. For the price, I’m very happy with the quality of this machine. It has a lot of different modes to give me options which is great, and the remote is super handy. I don’t have anything to complain about, really. I’d definitely recommend it.
Lisa O.
This model cannot be used as a stand up model, and as a result, it has no weight capacity. It weighs only 15.1 lbs itself, so it is truly the best model if you intend on travelling with it frequently (home to work and back to home each day, for example). The foot braces are large to prevent your foot from slipping off, and their great texture means you can wear any footwear type and still feel secure.
ANCHEER Under Desk Electric Mini Elliptical Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 18” x 14” x 10”
- Weight: 15.1 lbs
- Weight Capacity: None
- Resistance Levels: 5
- Connectivity: None
- Warranty: 1 year
ANCHEER Under Desk Electric Mini Elliptical Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Comes with a remote control
- Foot braces are textured and large to keep your foot very secure
- Auto mode (3 speed levels) and manual mode (5 resistance levels) add versatility
- Monitor tracks time, distance, scan, speed, and calories burned
Cons
Cons
- Little bit pricey
- Cannot be used when standing up
Our Final Opinion About the ANCHEER Under Desk Electric Mini Elliptical Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, this ANCHEER Under Desk Electric Mini Elliptical Machine is the perfect tool for people with more limited mobility, or just a touch of a lazy streak in them. Although it doesn’t double as a stand up model, its convenience and versatility make this a great product for just about anybody.
DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical Exercise Machine Review
The Adjustable Alternative
DeskCycle
Depending on the length of your legs and the placement of the machine, certain pedal angles can get uncomfortable. To avoid that problem entirely, the DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical Exercise Machine comes equipped with fully adjustable pedals to ensure your comfort at all times.
DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical Exercise Machine Video Review
What We Think of The DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical Exercise Machine
If you are shopping on a bit of a higher budget, this DeskCycle seated elliptical machine should certainly be a product you strongly consider. It isn’t usable as a stand up model so you don’t have to worry about a weight capacity, and as a 30 lb unit, it will still be fairly easy for most people to move it around the house or take it to work with them.
This model has the standard eight levels of resistance that are common for these products, so you’ll be able to work up to stronger intensities at your own pace as your fitness improves. The monitor will help you keep track of your workout time, your calories burned, the distance travelled, and your strides per minute. It doesn’t have any connectivity in place, but that is a fairly rare feature to find.
I could not be happier with this DeskCycle elliptical. I received it as a gift for Christmas last year, and I have been using it nearly every day while I work. I am required to be seated for 8-10 hours each day, and now I don’t feel nearly as bad about it since I can still keep my heart healthy and body in motion. I recommend this for everyone that spends a lot of time sitting down!
connor m.
One very unique thing about this machine is that the pedal height is actually adjustable. This ensures that you will experience the least amount of strain on your joints possible, and you can achieve an effective workout. This seated elliptical is very quiet during operation too, so it is a great choice for the work environment. Its durability ensures you won’t have to worry about it breaking down on you prematurely.
DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical Exercise Machine Specifications
- Dimensions: 23” x 18” x 10”
- Weight: 30.2 lbs
- Weight Capacity: None
- Resistance Levels: 8
- Connectivity: None
DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical Exercise Machine Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Pedal height is adjustable
- Very quiet during operation
- Monitor tracks time, calories burned, distance travelled, and strides per minute
- Very durable
Cons
Cons
- Approaching the expensive end of the market
- Cannot be used as a stand up model
Our Final Opinion About the DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical Exercise Machine
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the DeskCycle Ellipse Under Desk Elliptical Exercise Machine is a model that can suit anyone. Since it isn’t stand-up compatible, it doesn’t have a weight limit. With adjustable pedals, everyone has a guarantee of comfort as well. The price isn’t ideal, but the durability and quiet operation display the quality you’re receiving for your money.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Seated Elliptical Machine
What Are the Benefits of Using a Seated Elliptical Machine?
If you’re looking for a low-impact way to stay active in your own home, or you’re looking to remove the sedentary aspects of your day-to-day living, a seated elliptical machine is definitely the right product for you. If you’ve ever explored the benefits of a standard elliptical machine (great cardio but low impact on all your major joints), then you can expect the same from a seated model. These ones are even better for your joint health since you are in a seated position, and they are usable by people without great mobility. If you’re recovering from an injury or you’ve lost your strength or mobility, a seated elliptical machine can be a great way to get your heart rate up in a very controlled, stress free way. Plus, these models are incredibly portable and can be used in any part of your day.
If your job involves hours sitting at a desk, a seated elliptical machine can be a great way to keep your body active. You can also use it while reading or watching tv, to transform normally sedentary activities into another way to improve your heart health and tone your lower body. Many models can be uses as stand up machines as well, and there are some that will even come with resistance bands to help you target your entire body. Lastly, seated elliptical machines are great for smaller homes or apartments, since they have the smallest footprint of any workout machine.
Is a Seated Elliptical Workout as Effective as a Standing Elliptical Workout?
Absolutely. Even when seated, you’re working all the same muscle groups as you do when standing. Similar to an exercise/stationary bike, you’re working out your entire body while building cardio health at the same time. Plus, since it is lower impact than standing, you can often train stamina better on a seated elliptical since your body won’t tire from strain or soreness as quickly as it would with a higher impact exercise.
How Do I Find the Right Position?
Form is important when performing any exercise, and it matters when seated too. To position yourself properly on a seated elliptical machine, start by sitting in the seat no matter how it is currently set up. Watch the leg on the far side while moving the seat backwards or forwards – it should be only slightly bent when extended to allow you full range of motion. Your back should be supported and you should never have to either strain to reach the end of the pedal on the far side or scrunch your knees up to complete the circle on the near side.
How to Properly Choose Your Seated Elliptical Machine
- Price.
Seated elliptical machines can vary quite dramatically in price depending on their functionality, connectivity, and the quality of their build. At the top end of the market, you can expect to pay a little over $400, and these will be the machines that offer some great connective features, an effective workout, and a high quality design that will last you years. If you’re more of a budgeted shopper, you can find a less complex but equally as effective machine starting at only $185. Still a significant amount of money, but not $400 significant.
- Resistance Levels.
Every seated elliptical machines will have a number of resistance levels for you to choose from, and they can come in two modes. Some machines will have a given number of preset resistances, usually 8, and you will be able to easily cycle through as your body gets accustomed to the exercise and your strength and stamina improve. Other machines will work on a variable dial instead, so you’ll have to choose your resistance level based on feel rather than its number. This method can be better for fine-tuning resistance increments, but it can also be harder to know exactly where you’re at if someone else also uses the machine and adjusts the resistance.
- Connectivity.
While connectivity for seated elliptical machines isn’t the most common feature you’ll encounter, it is out there, so it is worth discussing. Some seated elliptical machines will allow you to connect to an app or a fitness tracker like Fitbit or Apple Health in order to connect with a community and track your progress, among other things. If a machine has this connectivity, it will likely be on the more expensive end of the market, but it is worth it for some people.
- Size.
All seated elliptical machines will be roughly the same size, but each will have their own unique design as well. Some will require slightly more floor space than others, and some will have foot pedals that are set wider apart than average. They should all be able to fit under any desk you need to work at, but you’ll have to keep in mind that you need enough clearance height to accommodate the movement of your knees.
- Monitor Info Delivered.
Every seated elliptical machine should have a monitor that delivers some sort of tracking information about your workout. Things like time, distance, RPM, calories burned, and a scan mode are common pieces of information that a monitor will provide. Not every monitor will display the same types of information, so if you’re looking for a well rounded report for each workout, you’ll have to spend some extra money on a more advanced model. If you aren’t too worried about the sophistication of this feature, a cheaper model will do just fine.
- Maximum Weight Capacity.
Not all seated elliptical machines will have a weight capacity, because not all of them can double as a stand up machine. Some can only be used as a seated model, so anyone of any size can make use of them. If it can also be used as a stand up model, you can expect a weight limit between 220 lbs and 250 lbs. You have to keep in mind that these are quite small machines, so they just cannot be designed for a higher weight capacity like larger machines. We still think 250 lbs is pretty impressive for a machine this small.
- Pedal Design.
The pedal design will affect how stable you feel while using the machine, and what shoe types will be compatible. Some seated elliptical pedals will be very grippy and secure, and they will allow you to work out effectively in any shoe type, even high heels if that is a necessity (or a choice) for your work outfits. Other machines aren’t as high quality, and will likely only feel their best while you are wearing running shoes. Some pedals will also be adjustable, so those will be the most comfortable.
- Warranty.
You’ll be spending a fair amount of money even on a lower quality seated elliptical machine, so it’s a good idea to buy a product that comes with some warranty protection. Even the standard year could make the difference between you having a seated elliptical machine and not being able to afford a replacement. Of course, this isn’t necessary, but we highly recommend it.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of seated elliptical machines allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
