Schwinn Elliptical Trainer Review
Good Value for Budget Ellipticals

Schwinn offers four models ranging from $600 - $1,000. And one of their models received "Best Buy" ratings from a top consumer rating. In general, I feel the Schwinn ellipticals offer some of the best value in their price range. In particular, I find the Schwinn 430 elliptical to be an excellent buy. I'm also impressed with the new Schwinn 460 with variable stride.

I find their models to have a smooth elliptical motion and their machines are relatively quiet, but more important is the fact that these are some of the most durable ellipticals in their price range.

Schwinn Elliptical Trainer Reviews...

Schwinn 418/438 - The Schwinn 418 and 438 are basically the same machines, except the 438 have wireless heart rate control, more programs, better warranty and an upgraded console and display. My one criticism of both machines is the single wheel that rides on the rail. These are front drive ellipticals. The pedals are attached to a bar that rolls back and forth on a rail. Cheaper machines use a single wheel that rolls between a groove. This single wheel tends to shift left and right, and is not as stable as a machine that rolls on two wheels. The single wheel design is more

Schwinn 430/438 - In comparison, the Schwinn 430 and 438 has an improved design. Although it still only has one wheel, it is larger and concave, giving the rolling motion more stability. It is ironic that their cheapest elliptical has a better design.

Each model has extra long handlebars so it can accommodate users of different size. You can also change the location of your grip and emphasize resistance to different parts of your upper body.

All the models have articulating foot pedals designed to angle with the elliptical motion. With stationary pedals your foot has to raise up with the elliptical stride, and can often cause numbness and discomfort.

The New Schwinn 460 Variable Stride Elliptical Trainer

Schwinn is always rasing the bar for elliptical trainer in the competitive budget market. With the new Schwinn 460 you get a variable stride machine. You can change the stride from 2"-26". What this does is allows you to tone-up more lower body muscles. In addition, the variable stride can accommodate users of different heights and fitness levels. I expect this elliptical to be a huge seller. See the Schwinn 460 Review.

Schwinn Elliptical Warranties

The parts warranties on all three models is reasonable, coverage is 2-3 years parts and 1 year electronics. Where Schwinn is weak is their service warranties. The 431 and the 438 come with 6 month service warranty, and the 430 only has 90-day coverage.

Our Review

My overall impression is that Schwinn offers some of the best value for ellipticals under $1,000. I believe the Schwinn 430 is an excellent value for $600, which is the price I found at Amazon. Although, you must realize the limitations of machines in this price range.

If you plan to use your elliptical extensively, have multiple users, are over 6' and/or weigh over 200 lbs, you may want to upgrade to Sole or Smooth. However, their new Schwinn 460 can handle heavier users and taller individuals.

Customer Reviews - Amazon.com

All their models rated between 4-5 stars our of 5. The Schwinn 430 and the Schwinn 431 have both received a 4.5 star ratings, which is impressive considering they fall into the class of a budget elliptical. You can check out the reviews at Amazon.com.

Here are several comments:

"High Quality Elliptical Trainer"

"Should have bought it long time ago!"

"Great machine!!"

"Silky smooth, totally silent"

Schwinn Reviews:

Schwinn 430 Elliptical Review

Schwinn 460 Elliptical Review - New!

Schwinn 431 Elliptical Review

Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike Review

Schwinn 231 Recumbent Bike Review