Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer Review

The Schwinn 431 elliptical trainer is an upgrade to the popular Schwinn 430. Which has won several "Best Buy" recommendations, including my own.

Both ellipticals have the same footprint and resistance level. And if you look at the photos they appear to be an exact match. There are several differences that justify the additional $200-$300 charge. They include:

19 workout programs rather than 8, which include 3 heart rate control programs. Exercise routines that control the resistance based on your heart rate. Requires holding on to the stationary hand grips.
Improved backlit LCD display, which is an improvement over the standard LCD display.
The console comes with a fan, and below is a holder for an MP3 player.
6 month service warranty, in comparison to 90-days.

Note: As of 12/31/08 the Schwinn 431 elliptical was selling for $849, with shipping at Amazon.com. It was selling for $999, plus $299 for shipping at schwinnfitness.com.

Our Review - Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer

If you checked out the "Best Buy" page, you'll see that the comparable Schwinn 430 was considered our best value for under $1,000. It has a smooth elliptical motion and is fairly solid and stable for a budget elliptical. In addition, the overall customer reviews have been favorable. On Amazon.com, 222 reviewers gave it 4.5 stars out of 5. Impressive for a budget elliptical.

The overall reviews for the Schwinn 431 have also been respectiable, with 46 reviewers giving it 4.5 stars.

One of the reasons I gave the 430 a "Best Buy" was the bargain price, which is usually around $600 with delivery. That is one of the better values in that price range. The Schwinn 431 tends to vary more in price. I've seen it as high as $899 and as low as $779.

I would say the aforementioned upgrades are justified for an additional $200, but at $300 the value is not quite there.

One further note, whether you decide on the Schwinn 430 or 431, I would consider extending the warranty. I believe Amazon offers a 2-year extension for $59. An inexpensive insurance on your investment.

Another model to consider is the NordicTrack 990. It received a "Best Buy" from a leading consumer magazine. It comes with a power incline, similar to a treadmill. At different levels you focus your workout on different parts of your lower body.

*This Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer Review is based on not only testing the equipment at a local retailer, but also comments, testimonials, reviews and ratings of customers and third parties. We attempt to be as accurate as possible. Warranties, features and prices can change without notice.