The 10 Best Cross Trainers Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts

Jonathan Wilson By, Jonathan Wilson
Updated
Sunny Health Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Cross Trainer
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Sunny Health Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Cross Trainer

"The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 is the perfect way to work out in the comfort of your own home. This compact, lightweight machine offers a wide range of features including a pulse monitor, easy setup and stable design. With a resistance range of 8-level digital display and digital readout, you can make sure your workout is as effective as possible." Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical

"The Teeter FreeStep LT3 is the ultimate in functional fitness. It's easy-to-use, and it offers a full range of motion exercise that targets every muscle group and works on your balance as well. With a simply sleek design, this machine is perfect for anyone looking to step up their workout routine." Read Review

3. Best Convenient: Niceday Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer

"You’ll love the new Niceday Elliptical Cross Trainer. With its 400-pound weight capacity and 16 resistance levels, you’ll always have a workout that matches your level of intensity. The magnetic drive system provides a smooth, quiet and effortless workout while the QuickStart function lets you get going in just minutes." Read Review

4. Best Lightweight: Horizon Fitness EX-59-03 Exercise Machine

"With the Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical Machine, you can get into shape and stay fit in the comfort of your own home. The compact machine is easy to assemble, with a quick and easy set up. It's also durable, with an ergonomic frame that ensures you'll be comfortable for hours on end. It comes with a wireless Bluetooth connection for your smartphone or tablet for easy monitoring of your progress and work out intensity." Read Review

Cross-training is an organized form of training that incorporates multiple types of exercise to optimize your body’s performance and recovery. Cross-training is a great way to challenge your body, increase intensity and variety, and keep things fresh in the gym. It can also provide you with various benefits.

The key to cross-training is choosing activities that will work well together. You need to find activities that are similar in intensity but different enough from each other so they don’t leave you feeling like you did the same thing over and over again. An easy way to think about it is if one activity leaves you feeling like you could have gone on for another hour, the other might leave you wanting just a little bit more time to recover from it. Check out some of the best cross trainers.

Following extensive study and analysis, we've come up with the Sunny Health Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Cross Trainer, which we hope will meet your demands. However, it is not the only thing on our list. We also show a full buyer's guide and several different options are available to help you find the most suitable one.

Compare

TOP Choice #1 Sunny Health Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Cross Trainer
Our Score:
9.8
Sunny Health & Fitness
  • COMPACT: This compact machine is ideal for people looking to achieve an incredible workout, but don’t have much space to work with.
  • DIGITAL MONITOR WITH PULSE: Follow along with your workout progress on the digital monitor that displays your time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse.
  • EASY SETUP: Avoid the hassle of overly complicated setups. This convenient elliptical cross trainer has been partially preassembled.
  • STABILIZER: Achieve smooth and even movement by leveling your elliptical bike with the onboard stabilizers.
  • RESISTANCE: Easily adjust the intensity of your workout with the twist of the precise micro-controller equipped with 8 levels of magnetic resistance.
TOP Choice #2 Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical
Our Score:
9.7
Teeter
  • ZERO-IMPACT EXERCISE: Ideal for all fitness levels. The naturally-reclined seated position eliminates stress on the joints and back and reduces body fatigue while delivering a total body, fat-burning cardio workout. A great exercise option for those with Arthritis, Parkinson's or MS.
  • COMMERCIAL-GRADE ENGINEERING: Friction-free linkage system means long-lasting use; Low-profile 54" x 38" footprint.
  • WHISPER-QUIET, FLUID STRIDE: The natural striding motion follows a smooth, linear path to protect your knees and joints. With 13 levels of smooth magnetic resistance, a simple turn of the dial takes your workout from zero to intense.
  • LT3 PREMIUM FEATURES: Upgraded UltraGlide Bearings promise long-lasting frictionless motion for fluid start up and stride transitions; SoftStep Pedals with durable grip surface for added traction and control; Larger ComfortSelect Seat with more positioning options; SureGrip handles with high-grade polyurethane coating for unmatched durability.
  • TOTAL BODY WORKOUT: Dual power motion works your upper and lower body simultaneously, engaging all major muscle groups to build strength and burn more calories. Modify the workout by isolating your legs or arms for added intensity.
TOP Choice #3 Niceday Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer
Our Score:
9.6
Niceday
  • 【Exactly Calculated Data】The digital monitor displays TIME, SPEED, DISTANCE, CALORIES, and PULSE. All data is dual-calibrated by serious algorithms, which will make you clear about your exercise effect to make a more exact training schedule to achieve your exercise goal.
  • 【Long-life Service Promise】We promise to provide a life-long service to the NICEDAY elliptical machine. We will pay for all of the replacement costs if customers need replacements. We have set a professional online service team to provide help with this elliptical machine. All messages will get responses within 24 hours.
  • 【Hyper-Quiet Magnetic Drive System】We developed the latest technology magnetic system and eliminates noise, also control the sound at 20DB even after millions of times workout. No disturbing on working, reading, and sleeping at home.
  • 【16LB Flywheel with 16 Resistance Levels】Provides double resistance levels than the ordinary product, smooth feeling thanks to 16lb flywheel and high gear ratio, no need for any electrical source. All stages exerciser can get efficient exercise with different resistance, no matter you are beginner or fanatic.
  • 【400 LBS Weight Capacity】The NICEDAY's main frame is made of the 8*5CM extra-thicken commercial steel pipe. The heavy-duty base contributes outstanding stability and loading capacity. It is for a long-term exercise workout, not those simple products for only a few months' use.
4 Horizon Fitness EX-59-03 Exercise Machine
Our Score:
9.5
Horizon Fitness
  • IDEAL FOR HOME WORKOUTS: Max user weight is 300 pounds. Compact, portable, and ideal for low ceilings, apartments, and small spaces. Assembled dimensions of 74" x 25" x 64.5".
  • DURABLE, ERGONOMIC FRAME: Lifetime frame warranty on the Six Star non-folding frame. 18" stride length with a tighter Q factor (distance between pedals) helps reduce stress on your hips and back for a more comfortable workout.
  • BLUETOOTH CONNECTION: Sync your phone or device to integrated speakers to stream media with crisp stereo sound. A built-in device holder keeps your screen in view for entertainment or classes. Includes rapid-charge USB port to keep you powered.
  • PROGRAM CHOICES: Intuitive controls let you choose your program from Calorie, Distance, Intervals, Manual, and Weight Loss. Quickly change speed and incline with one-touch keys.
  • QUICK, EASY SETUP: Assemble in 30 minutes or less. Includes built-in speakers, tablet rack, USB charging (1A/5V), and water bottle holder. Workout feedback includes calories, distance, heart rate, program level, speed, time, and watts
  • SMOOTH STRIDE: Magnetic resistance from the 14.3-pound flywheel and advanced pulley system deliver smooth, consistent motion. 10 levels of resistance allow you to customize your workout every day.
  • BEST-SELLING & MOST-RELIABLE: Horizon's most-awarded treadmill with simple, reliable controls and durable components. Get started with an exercise routine or train for your next event in the comfort of your home.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring (EKG-Contact) on the fixed handlebar with HRC program
  • MP3 & iPod compatible music system (through the headphone port) with USB charging port for your mobile device or tablet
  • 18" stride no impact elliptical motion with quiet magnetic resistance, special belt drive, inertia load 20kg speed ratio 1:12.7
  • 0-24 level Special Rotary Switch for resistance adjustment, random program with unlimited variations & 3 position chrome swinging arm & 8 position foot pedals adjustable.
  • Water bottle & storage rack / smartphone & tablet rack.
  • Standard stationary comfort seat with contact heart rate
  • Fully Adjustable rotating handles
  • User friendly LCD display
  • Display showing speed, time, distance, Pulse, rpm, calories, watts, & resistance level "1-16"
  • Independent semi-elliptical motion
  • 🌱【Excellent Customer Service & Detailed Mannual】 Shipped by U.S. warehouse, you will receive our Elliptical Machine within a few days. Detailed mannual are prepared for you to install the machine. If you have any problem with our product, please fell free to contact with us through Amazon.
  • 🌱【Portable design & Quiet Machine】Dual power motion works your upper and lower body simultaneously, modify the workout by isolating your legs or arms for added intensity. Quiet and smooth design.
  • 🌱【8-Level magnetic resistance】:8 Levels adjustable resistance can meet all the needs of you and your family in different training stages.Just challenge the highest level of this Elliptical Machine!
  • 🌱【Enhanced 13 Inch Big Non-slip Pedal】: 13 inch reverse-motion and non-slip pedal provides a no impact, smooth flowing workout, increase stability and comfort. Large pedals with ridges prevent foot slippage, support a maximum of 350lbs.
  • 🌱【Digital Monitor Display】:The advanced LCD digital monitor tracks your Time, Speed, Distance, Calories Burned, Pulse Rate, Scan. Pulse pads on the additional stationary handle bars provide heart rate monitoring.
  • Heart Rate Monitoring (EKG-Contact) on the fixed handlebar with HRC program
  • Water bottle & storage rack / smartphone & tablet rack. (The unit comes with 2 packages.)
  • MP3 & iPod compatible music system (through the headphone port) with USB charging port for your mobile device or tablet
  • 17" stride no impact elliptical motion with quiet magnetic resistance, special belt drive, inertia load 20kg speed ratio 1:12.7
  • 0-24 level Special Rotary Switch for resistance adjustment, random program with unlimited variations & 3 position chrome swinging arm & 8 position foot pedals adjustable.
  • Five panel feedback LCD display. Contact HR readout.
  • 3'x4' footprint
  • Dimensions: 45"L x 26"W x 66"H
  • Eight levels of magnetic resistance. 12" stride length.
  • Compact and stable. 225 lb. weight capacity.
  • 【LOW IMPACT, HIGH-INTENSITY】Elliptical Cross Trainer, is a fantastic alternative to a traditional exercise bike, offers a low impact cardio exercise that is kind on your joints, at the same time strengthens the main muscle groups as well as the abdominal, leg, and bottom areas. In this way, you benefit several times over from the effective training on your cross-trainer at home.
  • 【LCD DIGITAL MONITOR & APP FUNCTION】The precise LCD displays tracking and displaying your progress, including speed, distance, time, calories, pulse, and RPM. The intuitive multifunctional display is App-compatible, built-in tablet/phone holder, and Bluetooth function, so you can keep an eye on your training detail at all times with the Qiber App.
  • 【WHISPER QUIET FLUID MOTION】EM530 elliptical for home use​ is the perfect combo elliptical ​trainer for all levels. Our ​cross trainer​ ​exercise equipment​​ features 18lbs flywheel for the bidirectional movement workouts. The innovative magnetic flywheel system provides a smooth and quiet elliptical motion to give you a comfortable, fluid workout experience.
  • 【MAGNETIC RESISTANCE & WHOLE BODY EXERCISE】10 level of magnetic resistance adjustments provide the user with a more challenging workout from beginner to advanced intensities. The non-slip 15-inch large stride length provides a shock-free, fluid workout for your full-body workout. The fixed handlebars have a soft, sweat-resistant surface so you can focus on your fitness.
  • 【PROFESSIONAL, STRONG & SAFE】We pride on outstanding quality ​cardio equipment ​that has been refined by hundreds of hours of stringent quality inspection. This​ elliptical machine​ is solid enough to take a maximum user weight of 390lbs and light enough to move around your home using the transport wheels. Comes with 1-year worry-free after-sales, easy to assembly follow instructions and video.

What to Look For in a best cross trainers?

The best cross trainers is assessed based on many factors. best cross trainers research varies depending on the type, feature, and quality of this product. It is not too complex to cover, yet we will give you some buying guide and solutions to these problems.

Please take a closer look at best cross trainers characteristics below would be beneficial for you. Let’s look through and keep in mind:

Incline

There are many settings for treadmills, including incline. Elliptical trainers do too. At least, some do. You'll need to pay for the adjustable incline feature on an elliptical treadmill. It's not as widespread as it is on treadmills. This feature is only currently available at higher prices.
Targeting certain muscle groups in your legs is where the incline settings can help. You should target your back more often if the inclines are higher. Glutes, hamstrings, calves are all targets.
An adjustable incline trainer is an option if you want to work out hard and gain muscle mass for your legs. This feature can be omitted to save you money.

Connectivity

Equipment that is connected to the Internet can be used to track and monitor your workouts, create a competition environment and connect to social networks. Many ellipticals come with Bluetooth and wireless connectivity. One allows you to connect a USB stick to upload your workout data via the web to a tracking tool accessible from a laptop.

Ergonomics

An elliptical restricts the movement of your body, as opposed to a treadmill. Be mindful of how comfortable an elliptical feels to you. While holding the handle, it should not be difficult to hold on. Handgrips for moving should be reachable and shouldn't force wrists into an incongruous position. Your elliptical should feel easy. Most people will find the pedals to be comfortable as close as possible. Your arms, shoulders and knees shouldn't be affected by moving handgrips.

Stride Length

What distance the pedals are moving back and forward? This is called stride length. This number should be appropriate for your stride length. You should stride longer, the more tall you are, and your legs.
Some machines come with an adjustable stride length. While others can be set at a constant length. It really doesn't matter whether the adjustable version is for you or not.

Smoothness

It's important to have a smooth feeling elliptical. However, this is something it's difficult to determine from a spec sheet. An elliptical bike that isn’t perfectly smooth can cause a feeling of uneven resistance. This can be an indication that the movements are not normal.

Size

The average length of an elliptical is 6ft by 2.5ft wide. However, the actual length may vary from 50 to 84inches. The pedals could extend past the machine's length during operation. The pedals will be elevated higher than you would on the treadmill. Make sure your space has a high ceiling. Our step-up heights have been measured at 5-15 inches. At the elliptical's apex, pedals reach 25 inches above the ground. To ensure safety, there must be at least 20 inches of space between the sides and the rear.

Safety Features

Safety precautions for children are required when using an Elliptical. They could become trapped by moving parts or get pinched. Visitors and parents with children need to ensure the machine is locked up.

Programs

Programs can help make exercise more exciting and fun. Paying for unnecessary frills is not a good idea. There are a few simple programs you can use that will help with specific kinds of exercises. Manufacturers can call different programs something else, but they will all be essential. The ability to design your own resistance profiles is possible with the custom program.

FAQs

Should I Go With A Front Drive Or Rear Drive Elliptical?

This is one the most frequent questions about ellipticals. Rear-drive club models tend to be more efficient because the drive axle can be located backwards. It allows for greater power and smoother pedal action. The result is that rear-drive models tend to be more expensive while front-drive machines can often be found for less.

Why Is Stride Length Important?

A Variable or Fixed stride length is available for an elliptical. You will experience a shorter stride that feels like a stairclimber. However, a longer stride is more natural and more enjoyable for long legs. You should choose an elliptical with a minimum stride length not less than 18 inches. Buy a front drive machine. A 20-inch stride length will work well with an 18-inch stride on rear-drive machines.

What If The Console Display Won’t Light?

The display may not turn on if it's not plugged into or the batteries are dead. To check for a working power model, simply unplug it and wait for it to turn on again. Check the wires and cables to make sure they aren't crimped at assembly.

What About Regular Maintenance?

Your user manual will detail the recommended maintenance. The majority of ellipticals don't require any maintenance. However, it is important to check for loose bolts, like those on moving arms, as well as clean the rails, rollers, and other parts.

Should I Buy The One With A Heavier Flywheel?

Smoothness of the pedaling action is affected directly by how heavy the flywheel weighs. Higher inertia means that it is easier to keep your drive system turning with a heavier flywheel (28.5 lb)

What If My Elliptical Trainer Is Squeaking?

Be sure to secure all screws during assembly. But don't tighten them too much. Refer to the manual for information on how you can lubricate your guide rails. It is important to check that neither the guiderails nor the pedal arms have been misaligned, and that the machine remains level.

How Many Years Will An Elliptical Work For Me?

While there are many things that influence the life expectancy of an elliptical, it's strongly affected by how often and under what conditions it is used. You can extend the lifespan of your elliptical by maintaining it in a clean area and giving it regular care.

Our best cross trainers of 2024 will be occasionally updated with new and available information. Please pay more attention to the data on our website or subscribe to our newsletter so that any updates or changes will come to your mind in time.

Keep in mind that any things related to best cross trainers are in our hands. Thus, you can contact and ask for help whenever you need it. Thank you!


2 ratings

About Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson

Jonathan Wilson is a former pro football player and tech reporter who now serves as the editor of Kris Van Assche's website. He is a dedicated fitness enthusiast who splits his workout time between strength and conditioning training, martial arts and running.

Jonathan's athletic career began in college, where he was a star running back. He went on to play professionally for several years before injuries forced him to retire. Afterward, Jonathan transitioned into a career in tech reporting, where he quickly made a name for himself as a knowledgeable and insightful commentator on the industry.

In addition to his work with our website, Jonathan remains active in the world of sports. He regularly competes in martial arts tournaments and running events, and he is always looking for new ways to challenge himself physically. Jonathan is an inspiration to many people, and he is proof that it is never too late to pursue your passions.

Read Jonathan's full bio