Are you struggling to find the right cross trainer for you?
Overwhelmed with the multitude of brands, models and features out there?
Well fear not! We've done the legwork by researching, sourcing and testing dozens of cross trainers to find the best elliptical cross trainer machines for every budget.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced athlete, gym owner or personal trainer, we're confident this guide to the best cross trainers will help you find the perfect fit for your needs so you can purchase with confidence.
Happy browsing and reach out to me and my team if you have any queries!
All the best, Tristram - Owner, Cardio Online
The product recommendations we've made here have been thoroughly tested by our own in-house team and in many cases we've brought in fitness professionals, exercise physiologists and physiotherapists to help us compare products and ultimately provide you with the recommendations on this page.
We use our years of fitness equipment expertise and hands-on knowledge from talking to customers on a daily basis, understanding their specific needs and providing product recommendations to thousands of Aussie's every year.
Finding a high-quality cross trainer means taking a close look at everything from the biomechanics of the pedalling movement to resistance levels to warranties and advanced features. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting the best option for your needs:
✔️Comfortable stride: A smooth and fluid stride is a must for a cross trainer to deliver a full and effective movement that feels natural.
✔️Adjustable pedal position: A common mistake many people make is buying a cheap recumbent that doesn't offer an adjustable pedal position. Being able to adjust the foot pedal forward, backwards, or even angle inwards is essential to helping you maximise ankle comfort and minimise joint strain.
✔️Display: Displays can range from presenting basic data, to offering a variety of workout and weight loss programs to full touchscreen experiences with apps like Netflix built in for entertainment. Be prepare to pay considerably more for fancier features!
✔️ Resistance: Looking for a cross trainer that offers a range of resistance levels and a smooth resistance system such as a magnetic one are key for an efficient and effective ride. More advanced machines offer up to 40 levels of resistance to really fine tune to your needs.
✔️ Special features: Some cross trainers have wireless heart-rate compatibility that sync up to chest straps, or Bluetooth connectivity to stream workout data to your fitness apps.
✔️ Dimensions: The most important thing to consider is dimensions of the cross trainer and whether or not it will fit into your home space. Most are long and some can be over 2m in length so make sure you check you have the space.
Name | Rating | Pros | Cons | Why Buy | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() York Active 100 Cross Trainer |
Best Cheap Cross Trainer for Beginners
|
Affordable price, Easy to move, Customizable resistance | Limited weight capacity, Basic features, Limited resistance levels | Ideal for beginners on a budget looking to get active at home. | |
![]() Lifespan Fitness X-41 Cross Trainer |
Best Value Cross Trainer Under $1000
|
16 resistance levels, High flywheel, Reversible motion | Larger footprint, Higher price | Great for beginners on a budget wanting a capable cross trainer for home use. | |
![]() York X515 Elliptical Trainer |
Best Compact Cross Trainer |
24 resistance levels, Joint-friendly design, Smooth flywheel | Heavier build, Higher price | Perfect for home users wanting smooth operation, higher resistance levels and a design that is joint-friendly. | |
![]() York X315 Foldable Cross Trainer |
Best Foldable Cross Trainer |
Foldable, Wide resistance levels, Joint-friendly | Higher complexity, Premium price | Perfect for home users looking for a capable cross trainer that can be easily moved and stored away. | |
![]() Lifespan Fitness XT-40 Ascender Incline Cross Trainer |
Best Entry Level Incline Cross Trainer |
5 incline levels, Strong build, Smooth 50 cm stride, quiet magnetic drivetrain | No automatic power incline, Console is fairly basic | Ideal for home fitness enthusiasts looking for more advanced features and capabilities from their elliptical machine | |
![]() Sole E25 Cross Trainer |
Best Mid-Range Cross Trainer Under $2500 |
Ergonomic design, exceptional warranty, 20 incline levels, tablet holder, feature-packed console, automatic power incline | Large footprint, no touchscreen | Perfect for those seeking a feature-packed elliptical machine with Sole's unbeatable warranty and without the frills of a fancy entertainment touch-screen. | |
![]() Sole E95 Cross Trainer |
Best High-Tech Cross Trainer with Touchscreen |
13.3-inch touchscreen, Built-in entertainment apps (Netflix, YouTube etc), Whisper-quiet operation, adjustable pedals, adjustable stride length, exceptional warranty | Large footprint | For home users that value cutting-edge technology, entertainment options and performance with the reassurance of Soles unbeatable warranty. | |
![]() SportsArt E835 Commercial Cross Trainer |
Best Adjustable Stride Commercial-Grade Cross Trainer |
Self-generating, 40 resistance levels, Adjustable stride, impressive commercial-grade warranty, exceptionally comfortable | Large footprint, no entertainment features | Perfect for home users wanting a premium cross trainer. Ideal for PT studios or corporate gyms looking for a premium elliptical machine with class-leading commercial warranty. |
Best for:
Beginners looking to improve their fitness at home
Those looking for a no frills elliptical trainer
Folks with a tight budget
People weighing under 100 kg
The York Active 100 Cross Trainer brings fitness and fun to your home. This machine is perfect for anyone wanting to jumpstart their exercise routine. Its eight levels of resistance let you start easy and work your way up as you get stronger.
The cushioned footplates make your workout comfortable. Plus, the built-in wheels help you move it around without breaking a sweat. You will love the easy-to-read LCD screen that keeps track of how you're doing.
See your speed, time, and even how many calories you burn. It's like having a personal trainer in your living room. This cross trainer is not too bulky, so it fits in tight spaces.
With a sturdy build, it's ready to handle serious workouts without wobbling. Also, the one-year warranty gives you peace of mind.
Pros
Cons
Resistance Levels | 8 manual |
Flywheel Weight | 4 kg |
Max User Weight | 100 kg |
Dimensions | 900 x 605 x 1520 mm |
Warranty | 12 months |
Display | LCD - time, speed, distance, calories, pulse, odometer |
Best for:
Those wanting a comprehensive full-body workout at home.
Folks looking for a no frills cross trainer machine
The Lifespan Fitness X-41 Cross Trainer is your partner in achieving fitness goals. With its 16 resistance levels, it lets you easily customize your workout. The 8 kg heavy-duty flywheel ensures your ride is steady.
The 46 cm stride length helps you burn more calories. It's great for a workout that doesn't hurt your joints but brings big results. You can also enjoy the reversible motion, letting you target different muscles.
The handy LCD display shows your progress, so you stay motivated. This machine can take a lot, supporting up to 150 kg of user weight. Its comfy saddle and maintenance-free belt system mean less fuss and more exercise time.
It's an excellent choice for anyone aiming to improve their heart health and tone up.
Pros
Cons
Resistance Levels | 16 automatic |
Flywheel Weight | 8 kg |
Max User Weight | 150 kg |
Stride Length | 46 cm |
Dimensions | 145 cm x 57.5 cm x 172 cm |
Programs | 18 workout programs |
Best for:
Perfect for users wanting advanced features and joint-friendly design.
Users looking for a high quality cross trainer without the fancy features
People with limited space, like those living in apartments
The York X515 Elliptical Trainer is a gem for those who want more from their workouts. This cross trainer gives you 24 resistance levels, so there's always a new challenge. The 10 kg flywheel keeps your movement smooth and steady.
It's built with your comfort in mind. The 2-degree inward slope reduces joint strain, making it a good pick for anyone who worries about their knees. The LCD display is easy to use and packed with options.
You can choose from 14 different programs or set your own. It even tracks your heart rate with sensors in the handles. Need music to push you forward?
Plug in your MP3 and let the speakers do the rest. Plus, with easy-to-move wheels, this machine can fit anywhere.
Pros
Cons
Resistance Levels | 24 electronic |
Flywheel Weight | 10 kg |
Max User Weight | 125 kg |
Stride Length | 16 inches |
Dimensions | 1360 x 540 x 1560 mm |
Programs | 14 built-in |
Best for:
Perfect for fitness lovers needing a compact cross trainer for their home or apartment.
People wanting to store away their elliptical when not in use
The York X315 Foldable Cross Trainer is a dream for those with limited space. Its foldable design makes storing it simple without losing any of the quality. You will enjoy 24 resistance levels, giving options to increase the workout as you want.
The 18-inch stride length lets you stretch comfortably while moving. The LCD screen is easy to read. It shows your progress as you work.
Music is also an option with a tablet holder nearby. Feel safe with a two-degree inward slope which helps your joints. Plus, it's built sturdy and can support up to 130 kg.
Moving it is easy thanks to the wheels. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, the 23 workout programs cover all needs.
Pros
Cons
Resistance Levels | 24 electronic levels |
Flywheel Weight | 5.7 kg |
Max User Weight | 130 kg |
Stride Length | 18 inches |
Programs | 23 total programs |
Warranty | 12 months parts and frame |
Best for:
Ideal for both fitness enthusiasts and beginners seeking advanced features.
Heavy users and those wanting an incline cross trainer at an affordable price
The Lifespan Fitness XT-40 Ascender Cross Trainer is a powerhouse for fitness lovers. It offers 16 levels of resistance, giving you the flexibility to push your limits. The 7 kg flywheel allows for a smooth ride.
Its 50 cm stride lets you move like you're walking or running on air. A manual incline simulates different terrains, adding variety to your workout. The large LCD screen is easy to use, helping you track your progress.
With wheels on hand, moving it around the house is a breeze. Included pulse sensors help you keep an eye on your heart rate, important for those serious about their fitness journey. This machine can handle up to 160 kg, making it versatile for many users.
Pros
Cons
Resistance Levels | 16 automatic |
Flywheel Weight | 7 kg |
Max User Weight | 160 kg |
Stride Length | 50 cm |
Incline Levels | 5 manual |
Programs | 21 dynamic programs |
Best for:
Ideal for those seeking a durable and technologically advanced home workout solution.
Folks wanting a full featured cross trainer with power incline
People with long-term bang for buck in mind - excellent warranty
Meet the Sole E25 Cross Trainer. It's built for comfort and packed with features. Its 9 kg flywheel and 20 power incline levels ensure a workout that matches your pace.
The 7.5-inch LCD helps you keep track of your progress. The pedal slope assists in avoiding knee pain. With Bluetooth audio, enjoy your favorite music while you exercise.
The Sole+ app offers thousands of classes, keeping things fresh. Large cushioned pedals make every step comfortable. A durable frame supports up to 160 kg.
For those who want a versatile and lasting machine, this model is a superb choice.
Pros
Cons
Resistance Levels | 20 automatic |
Flywheel Weight | 9 kg |
Max User Weight | 160 kg |
Incline Levels | 20 power incline |
Dimensions | 178 cm x 61 cm x 178 cm |
Programs | 9 total programs |
Best for:
Perfect for fitness enthusiasts who value cutting-edge technology and performance.
Users demanding interactive options and entertainment
Folks wanting to sync their workouts to their phones
People wanting a premium quality cross trainer for home use
The Sole E95 Cross Trainer redefines home workouts. Its 13.3-inch touchscreen entertains you with apps like Netflix and YouTube. The 12 kg flywheel ensures a steady workout.
Twenty levels of power incline make each session unique. This cross trainer offers high-quality sound with built-in speakers. Having a wireless charging station lets you power your devices while exercising.
The machine caters to all fitness levels, providing a stable experience with dual glide rails. Cushioned foot pedals make your steps comfortable. With a strong build supporting up to 180 kg, it's made to last.
Whether you're a beginner or a pro, the Sole E95 keeps you on track.
Pros
Cons
Flywheel Weight | 12 kg |
Max User Weight | 180 kg |
Incline Levels | 20 power incline |
Display | 13.3-inch touchscreen |
Apps | Netflix, YouTube, and more |
Warranty | Lifetime on frame and flywheel |
Best for:
Ideal for those seeking a durable and energy-efficient workout machine.
Small commercial facilities such as PT studios, apartment gyms etc.
Multiple users needing maximum adjustability and versatility
Users demanding the highest quality world renowned brands.
The SportsArt E835 Elliptical Cross Trainer is a top pick for those serious about fitness. It supports up to 400 lbs, offering robust construction. With 40 resistance levels, this machine suits beginners and seasoned athletes.
The adjustable stride length adds versatility, tailoring the workout to fit anyone. Its self-generating feature means no need for power outlets, saving energy. The MyFlex™ pedal cushioning system enhances comfort, making long sessions bearable.
The display is simple and shows important stats like calories burned. Bluetooth keeps you connected, charging outlets keep your device alive. It is a great choice for anyone wanting a reliable and eco-friendly workout solution.
Pros
Cons
Resistance Levels | 40 |
Max User Weight | 400 lbs |
Stride Length | Adjustable |
Dimensions | 201 x 62 x 173 cm |
Display | Tri-color LED |
Warranty | Lifetime frame, 5 years parts - commercial warranty |
Look for features like number of resistance levels, a heavy flywheel, and incline options. Additionally, check for comfort elements like cushioned pedals and a user-friendly display or even touchscreens with entertainment options.
Yes, cross trainers are low-impact and often include ergonomic designs to minimize stress on joints, making them a great option for those with joint concerns.
Cross trainers vary in size, but generally require a space of about 6 to 7 feet in length and 3 feet in width. Ensure there is additional space for safety and movement.
Yes, cross trainers provide effective cardiovascular workouts that can burn calories and aid in weight loss when combined with a healthy diet.
Manual resistance is adjusted by a dial or knob, while electronic resistance allows for more precise and easier adjustments, often through a digital interface.
Many cross trainers can be assembled using included instructions, but professional assembly may be easier if you're unsure or wish to avoid the hassle. Ask us for an installation quote if you require installation!