At Home Gym Supply, we frequently have people get in touch who are uncertain about what cross trainer to choose.
So, we have gathered a variety of elliptical trainers that we feel suit a wide range of users and broken them down into our top 10 list.
We have also included a couple of wildcard options at the end to give you alternative options.
At a Glance - Our Top Rated Cross Trainers by Category
Overall Best Cross Trainer - NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
Best Budget Cross Trainer - Dripex Magnetic Cross Trainer
Best Cross Trainer Under £500 - JTX Fitness Stride X8
Best Cross Trainer Under £1000 - ProForm 420E
Best Wildcard Option - ProForm Hiit L6
Why Trust Our Reviews at Home Gym Supply?
At Home Gym Supply, our top 10 list is built on experience and genuine interactions.
Over the years, we've sold container loads of cross trainers, collaborating with a variety of brands.
This allows us to gain firsthand knowledge by testing out the cross trainers when we have a new arrival at our warehouse or when we assemble units for customers.
We are also regularly asked to give feedback to manufacturers and are kept up to date with the latest news and updates.
Plus we get valuable feedback from our customers about their real-world insights into their experiences with each product.
Our goal is to help customers find a machine that meets their needs by sharing our insights.
Top 10 Best Cross Trainers
1. NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
| Flywheel Weight |
15kg |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
26 |
| Assembled Dimensions |
175cm (L) x 63cm (W) x 180cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
135kg |
The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Cross Trainer is the top-of-the-range model available from NordicTrack and comes with a premium price tag that might not suit everyone. But gets our vote for best cross trainer.
NordicTrack is well renowned for its longstanding reputation for delivering great quality and functionality.
The standout feature of the AirGlide 14i is the 14-inch Smart HD touchscreen, optimised for integration with iFit.
Although iFit comes at an additional monthly fee, it unlocks a library of diverse workouts. Users can immerse themselves in global escapades, traversing exotic terrains, or choose to engage with energising studio sessions.
It comes with 26 digitally controlled resistance levels, complemented by an adjustable incline ranging from -5%% to 15%. Both the resistance and incline can be manually or automatically controlled through the console, adding to the dynamic workout experience.
The heavy 15kg flywheel ensures a smooth mothion while offering a wide range of resistance.
Even at its peak, the machine remains almost silent thanks to NordicTrack's patented Silent Magnetic Resistance system.
A word of caution for prospective buyers: this machine is weighty, so make sure to check the delivery isn't curbside and they will carry it inside for you.
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2. Dripex Magnetic Cross Trainer
| Flywheel Weight |
6kg |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
8 |
| Assembled Dimensions |
99cm (L) x 49cm (W) x 150cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
120kg |
The Dripex Magnetic Cross Trainer is a budget-friendly option, priced under £200 at the time of writing this, making it an accessible pick for many.
Though equipped with a lighter 6kg flywheel, it still produces enough resistance to deliver a good quality cardiovascular workout.
There are EKG heart rate monitors built into the handlebars but the accuracy is questionable. But they can serve as a ballpark measure of your workout intensity compared to other workouts on the same machine.
One of its undeniable perks is the integrated tablet holder on the display, ideal for those who fancy catching up on their favourite series during their workout.
Additionally, its compact and lightweight design makes it a good choice for anyone who is short on space but wants to be able to put the machine away between workouts.
While this machine might lack top-end resistance, it is good for anyone on a tight budget that wants to burn a few extra calories.
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3. ProFOrm 420E
| Flywheel Weight |
7kg |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
16 |
| Assembled Dimensions |
173cm (L) x 84cm (W) x 170cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
125kg |
In third place, we have an option from ProForm who are owned by iFit, just like NordicTrack. We have the have the smallest cross trainer in their Endurance line.
But it still comes with a variety of features that make it a great option especially if your budget won't stretch to the AirGlide 14i.
It comes with a clear 5” LCD display which displays all essential workout data. Plus it is iFit compatible so you can connect your tablet or smartphone to the machine and take advantage of the free 30-day iFit trial.
There is also a tablet holder that is positioned above the display so you can see all your workout data and still see your smart device screen easily. So, even if you don't decide you want to continue using iFit you can watch your favourite shows and use the in-built workout programs.
If you would like to track your heart rate more accurately you can connect a Bluetooth heart rate monitor.
The 7 kg flywheel uses the same Silent Magnetic Resistance system we saw in the AirGlide 14i for a whisper-quiet workout. There are a total of 16 resistance levels to choose from which can be controlled directly through the console.
Do note its substantial boxed weight of 80kg - so make sure you get some help when it is delivered to get the box where you would like to set it up.
Lastly, you get the standard ProForm warranty of 1-year parts and labour warranty but if you register the warranty within 28 days of purchase, the warranty will be extended to 2 years for free.
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4. Reebok ZR8
| Flywheel Weight |
9kg |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
32 |
| Assembled Dimensions |
144cm (L) x 63cm (W) x 169cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
120kg |
The Reebok ZR8 has a sleek, modern design, appealing to the contemporary fitness enthusiast.
It is consistently one of the best sellers in the under £500 price range and for good reason.
The console has a clear 5.75” LCD display offering bright and easily readable metrics. There are also 15 workouts to choose from that add an extra level of variety to your workouts.
Plus, there is a built-in tablet holder which is conveniently positioned atop the display, it enables users to catch up on their favourite shows or read, ensuring their workout remains entertaining.
Performance-wise, the ZR8 comes with a heavy 9kg magnetic flywheel which produces a good level of resistance split into 32 levels of resistance controlled through the console. The weight of the flywheel makes the motion feel fluid but remains almost silent when being used.
The only downside to this model is that there isn't a water bottle holder which can be essential for longer workouts.
Related: Our Top Cross Trainer Workouts
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5. DKN XC-190
| Flywheel Weight |
10kg |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
32 |
| Assembled Dimensions |
153cm (L) x 55cm (W) x 173cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
130kg |
The DKN XC-190 stands out in the crowded fitness market with its distinctive design.
Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but its unique design is compact and easy to move on the front-mounted transport wheels.
The design also keeps the gap between the pedals (Q-factor) to a minimum at just 5cm. This helps to keep your feet at a natural width helping you stay balanced and comfortable on long workouts.
Equipped with a heavy 10kg flywheel which can be split up into 32 magnetic resistance levels, it provides a challenging level of resistance on level 32.
Most users will likely find themselves below the 20th level for regular cardio routines and only going higher for intense sessions.
The clear blue backlit console comes with 16 pre-installed workouts, catering to various fitness goals. A notable feature is the capacity to store up to four user profiles, allowing personalised feedback data from your workouts which might be of interest to some users.
There is also an integrated tablet holder so you can conveniently watch your smart device while you work out.
The assembly is relatively straightforward for the DIY-savvy but can take about an hour to complete.
Related: Cross Trainer Maintenance Tips
Overall, it is a good quality elliptical cross trainer but at the price point, we would like to see a few more interactive features included. But if you aren't looking for an interactive workout, then the XC-190 is a solid choice.
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6. Viavito Sina Elliptical Cross Trainer
| Flywheel Weight |
9kg |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
32 |
| Assembled Dimensions |
132cm (L) x 55cm (W) x 170cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
120kg |
The Viavito Sina Elliptical Cross Trainer is a great example of Viavito's commitment to quality in the realm of home cardio equipment.
This trainer is very similar to the Reebok ZR8 we saw previously and comes with a 9kg flywheel which is heavy for models in this price range and an impressive range of resistance levels to choose from with 32 in total.
The resistance strength is enough to give you a tough workout if you want or you can lower the resistance and glide along for a long steady state workout.
One minor drawback is that there is no tablet holder built into the machine which feels like a slight oversight, especially for those who prefer multitasking during their workouts.
Admittedly, the console may present an initial learning curve if you aren't too familiar with using cardio equipment. But, with a bit of time, users should find its interface intuitive and user-friendly.
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7. JTX Fitness Stride X8
| Flywheel Weight |
7kg |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
16 |
| Assembled Dimensions |
130cm (L) x 70cm (W) x 169cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
120kg |
JTX Fitness specialise in home cardio equipment and have a variety of products that are good quality and budget-friendly.
As JTX is based in the UK you can also pop over to their showroom in West Sussex if you want to try out the machine before you buy it.
Plus, their customer service is very good and each machine comes with a reassuring 2-year warranty.
Following on from the best-selling X7, JTX created the X8 with a new design and various improvements.
The main upgrade is the added interactive features which can now sync with compatible apps such as Kinomaps.
But remember, you'll need your smartphone or tablet for this. But they have also added a tablet holder so you can easily store your device as you work out and see the screen.
In addition, there are 21 workout programs built into the console which has also been redesigned with a new LCD display.
The X8 also comes with 16 levels of magnetic resistance to choose from and manages to produce a moderate amount of resistance.
Overall the X8 is a good already round cross trainer at a fair price you get a good blend of quality and functionality.
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8. JLL CT200
| Flywheel Weight |
"Resembles" 10kg |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
8 |
| Assembled Dimensions |
115.5cm (L) x 75cm (W) x 158cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
100kg |
The JLL CT200 is the entry-level cross trainer from JLL, a UK-based brand known for its budget-friendly home gym equipment.
With a flywheel specified to "resemble" a 10kg weight, it is a little bit confusing as it feels more in line with the 7kg flywheels seen in similarly priced models.
Nevertheless, the CT200 offers a smooth elliptical motion, dishing out moderate resistance. It's ideal for those targeting cardiovascular exercises; however, if you're aiming for more intense regimes, this might not be your top pick.
Its adjustable resistance settings can be controlled via an 8-level turn dial knob located on the main upright of the machine.
Rounding off its features is the straightforward console, which displays essential metrics such as time, speed, distance, pulse and calories. Although the pulse sensors are quite slow to update which can make them difficult to rely on.
All in all, a decent pick for those on a budget looking for a home cardio workout and supporting UK-based businesses.
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9. XS Sports 2 in 1 Elliptical Cross Trainer Bike
| Flywheel Weight |
Air Flywheel |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
Variable |
| Assembled Dimensions |
99cm (L) x 23cm (W) x 66cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
110kg |
The XS Sports 2 in 1 stands out with its distinctive design, combining both an exercise bike and a cross trainer into one machine. This hybrid offers extra versatility to your workouts.
However, when using the machine as a bike, the pedal motion doesn't feel exactly like an ordinary exercise bike as the pedals don't allow your heel to drop down like it would on a normal exercise bike.
The display is straightforward to use and shows the basic workout data that you would expect such as time, distance, pulse, speed, calories and has a scan mode.
There are built-in EKG heart rate sensors but as we have seen on similar priced models, the accuracy is questionable but still provides a gauge against previous workouts.
While the resistance isn't the heaviest, considering the machine's price point, this is fairly typical.
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10. Sunny Health SF E902 Manual Elliptical
| Flywheel Weight |
No Flywheel |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
0 |
| Assembled Dimensions |
63.5cm (L) x 48cm (W) x 144cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
95kg |
The Sunny Health SF E902 rounds off our top 10 list and is a worthy inclusion.
Ideal for those limited in space, the E902 is perfect for a basic cardio boost. As a manual cross trainer, it comes with a singular resistance level.
Lightweight weighing just 16kg, its foldable design means it is easy to pack away in between workouts.
It also has a small display but it shows all the essential information.
Priced around £100, it offers value for money, meeting all expectations for its cost.
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Extra Picks to Explore
Many of our customers, while looking for home cross trainers, are also interested in elliptical steppers. So, we've highlighted a couple of alternative models worth considering.
ProForm Hiit L6
| Flywheel Weight |
14kg |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
22 |
| Assembled Dimensions |
170cm (L) x 76cm (W) x 169cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
147kg |
ProForm, a renowned name in the fitness world, shares its reputation with NordicTrack as both companies are owned by the same parent company.
This means you can expect the same good customer service you'd associate with NordicTrack.
The HIIT l6's console is quite basic for a model at this price range, focusing on basic metrics and a sample of built-in workouts. But it comes with an integrated tablet holder and iFit compatibility so you can seamlessly connect your tablet, making the most of the iFit free trial and unlocking its extensive workout library and extra features.
Generating the resistance is a big 14kg flywheel which makes for possibly the toughest workout we have seen in any model in our list so far, partly due to the more vertical movement.
And just like its NordicTrack counterparts, the Hiit l6 uses the same Silent Magnetic Resistance system, guaranteeing whisper-quiet operation.
For those seeking a blend of minimalism and performance, this model might just be the right pick.
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BowFlex Max Trainer M3
| Flywheel Weight |
Air Flywheel |
| Adjustable Resistance Levels |
8 |
| Assembled Dimensions |
124.5cm (L) x 66cm (W) x 164.1cm (H) |
| Maximum User Weight |
136kg |
BowFlex continually impresses with its innovative approach to fitness equipment, and the Max Trainer series stands testament to this uniqueness.
The M3 truly feels like a blend of a stepper and an elliptical, with its angled stepping motion giving the sensation of navigating a steep incline elliptical.
Its design is compact yet doesn't compromise on delivering a rigorous workout. The console's design makes you feel like you are riding a motorbike. Even the adjustable resistance is controlled like a grip twist throttle of a motorbike adding an extra feel of intensity to your workouts.
One of the console's readout features that we feel is very effective is the "burn rate indicator", which adjusts in real time based on your intensity, ensuring you're always at your workout's optimal sweet spot.
However, quality and uniqueness come at a price. BowFlex's M3 is pricier than some competitors with arguably similar models, but they somewhat offset this by including a heart rate chest belt, a perk usually not standard with many brands.
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What is a Cross Trainer?
For those of you who are unsure of what a cross trainer is. A cross trainer, also known as an elliptical trainer, is a stationary exercise machine that simulates walking, running, or stair climbing without causing excessive pressure on the joints.
Related: Cross Trainer Benefits Guide
This low-impact cardiovascular machine engages both the upper and lower body, providing extra versatility to your cardiovascular workout.
What to Look For?
When you're on the hunt for the perfect cross trainer, understanding the various features and what they offer is crucial. Here's a guide to help you make an informed decision:
Types of Resistance
Cross trainers come with different resistance types, including:
Magnetic: These are the most popular as they are whisper quiet when in use and provide a smooth resistance change, making your workout seamless.
Air: Typically louder than magnetic versions, they offer resistance based on how hard you push or pedal to make the flywheel spin faster to generate more resistance as it pushes the air out of the way.
Manual: You might find Manual cross trainers also called air gliders. Their design tends to be quite basic and represents a skeleton design of a cross trainer. But their price tag often reflects this basic design and is much more affordable.
Drive Position - Front or Rear
Rear Drive: As you might guess, the rear-drive position has the flywheel located at the back of the machine. Rear drive trainers can be longer, potentially offering extended stride lengths but will require more space.
Front Drive: The other option is having the flywheel mounted on the front of the machine. This helps to keep the machine compact which is ideal for tighter spaces, though they might have a slightly different pedal motion and tend to have a smaller gap between the pedals which can make your feet width feel more comfortable.
Flywheel Weight
At Home Gym Supply we have the general rule of thumb that the weight of the flywheel is a good indicator of a machine's quality.
A heavier flywheel generally ensures a smoother pedal motion and can generate higher resistance levels. So if you are torn between two machines, check the flywheel weight and it might help you decide.
Resistance Levels
Being able to adjustable the resistance is important for varying your workout intensity.
You should also make note of how the resistance levels are changed.
Typically it is changed electronically through the console or via a turn dial knob on budget-friendly options.
Stride Length
The stride length caters to different user heights. While it varies from person to person, a number of machines will have an adjustable stride length which will help ensure the machine if comfortable to use no matter how tall or short you are.
Display and Monitoring
While most users tend to only require basic workout information to be displayed on the console, there are cross trainers available with more advanced feedback.
There are also a number of interactive models that are compatible with apps like iFit and Zwift which can help keep your workouts interesting by adding extra variety and guidance.
Size and Portability
One of the final deciding factors for a number of people will be the size and portability of the elliptical. If you want to store the trainer away in between uses, then we recommend you get a compact machine with built in transport wheels so you can easily move it if you need to.
Also, some models are foldable, although this isn't a very common feature on cross trainers.
The ideal cross trainer is one that fits your space, meets your workout goals, and falls within your budget.
Related Post: Cross Trainer vs. Treadmill