2012 Best Buy Elliptical Trainers

The following elliptical trainer reviews are based on a number of factors. Each is extremely important when considering what qualifies as a "Best Buy." This includes...

Overall Elliptical Design and Engineering
The Quality of the Components
Innovative Features
The Extent of the Warranty
Customer Service Reputation

$500 - $1,000

NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 Pro — An exceptional value. The NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 includes a power ramp, where you can adjust the incline like a treadmill. This gives you an intense workout that can burn more calories in less time. In addition, it allows you to target and tone different lower body muscles. Also included is a sound system and iFit Live. A new technology that allows the elliptical to connect with the Internet, where you can get personalized workout routines with audio coaching and much more! (See the NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 Pro Review.)

$1,000 - $1,500

Smooth CE 7.4 — The Smooth CE 7.4 has been around for several years and has an excellent service record. It is a very durable and low maintenance crosstrainer for the price. This is reflected in an industry leading warranty that includes 7-years parts and 2-years labor coverage. It offers an extra long 21" elliptical stride that provides a very smooth and natural motion. It also has the best articulating pedal design in the industry. The pedals angle with the pressure from your foot, reducing stress and strain from foot lift. It also better aligns your ankles, kness and hips. New for 2012 is MySmooth Virtual Trainer that lets you manage your health and fitness goals online. Overall, a solid buy for durability. (See the Smooth CE 7.4 Review)

$1,500 - $2,000

NordicTrack E 15.0 — The total package on the NordicTrack E 15.0 makes this elliptical trainer extremely attractive. For example, you can not only incline the elliptical stride, but also decline 10 degrees. This allows you to target more muscles. There is a 10" Google Android Tablet that allows you to access the Internet as you workout. Also iFit Live is included. You can get customized workouts or exercise physically and visually anywhere in the world. There is no other elliptical trainer on the planet that is comparable to this machine in regards to features and innovation. (See the NordicTrack E 15.0 Review)

$2,000 - $3,000

The Yowza Fitness Captiva has two features that make this elliptical a stand-out. First, there is the Variable Motion, which varies the motion and stride from 18"-32". In comparison to a fixed elliptical stride, the Variable Motion exercises more lower body muscles while getting an intense cardio workout. Second, you have the patented Cardio Core Training. In general, the dual handlebars on an elliptical trainer provide minimal results. In contrast, the Captiva has a T-bar that swings from left to right, forcing your body to twist. You target your core muscles like abs and obliques. These two technologies make the Captiva one of the most innovative and effective cross-trainers on the market. This is a serious cardio burning, body toning machine. (See the Yowza Fitness Captiva Review.)

$3,000+

Best Buy Precor EFX 5.25 elliptifcal trainer

The Precor 5.33 is commercial grade for the home. In fact, it uses the same frame and many of the components found on their commercial models. The evidence of the durability of this machine is the 10 year parts warranty. In addition, the Precor 5.33 excels in its ergonomic and biomechanical features. Precor invented the crosstrainer and they build some of the best on the planet. ( See the Precor EFX 5.33 Review)

Our 2012 Best Buy Elliptical Trainer recommendations are based on our own personal testing, and third party reviews and ratings. Features and prices can change without notice. We can not be held responsible for equipment malfunction or service failures on the part of the manufacturer.

2012 "Best Buy" Elliptical Trainers