I will compare 6 of the best collapsible elliptical machines and compact space-saving ellipticals I could find online in today’s review.
You will find various brand names you can trust and models specifically designed to fit in smaller spaces that you can quickly maneuver from one location to another.
Some of my favorites in this review are the Schwinn 411 elliptical machine, the Horizon Evolve 3, and the 895 Proform Space Saver elliptical.
Make sure to go through our list and compare each machine’s many features and decide for yourself which is best for your specific requirements.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Our Best Compact & Collapsible Ellipticals at a Glance
- What is an Elliptical Machine?
- Is an Elliptical Better than a Treadmill?
- The Top Key Features We Looked For
- Our 6 Best Collapsible & Compact Elliptical Machines Reviewed
- My Recommendation for Best Compact Elliptical Trainer
- My Recommendation for Best Collapsible Elliptical Machine
- Features to Consider Before Buying a Compact Elliptical Machine
Our Best Compact & Collapsible Ellipticals at a Glance
Here is a quick overview of the best collapsible & compact elliptical trainers we could find for this review:
| Most Compact Elliptical Machines > | Best Collapsible Elliptical Machines > |
|---|---|
| Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 | Horizon Evolve 3 (Editor’s Choice Award) |
| Sunny Health & Fitness P8300 | Nordic Track SpaceSaver SE9i |
| Schwinn 411 Elliptical (Editor’s Choice Award) | ProForm Space Saver 895 CSE |
What is an Elliptical Machine?
The elliptical machine is a full-body, low-impact alternative to walking or jogging with similar results. This indoor cardio machine is very easy on the joints, knees, ankles, and feet.
The smooth elliptical motion provides consistent low-impact strides for the lower body, while with most machines, the dual-motion arms provide an additional upper body workout.
With that said, you are not only getting a full-body workout but also an extremely effective cardio workout to strengthen your heart and help you quickly shed unwanted body fat.
What We Mean by Compact Elliptical Machines
Our compact elliptical machines are much smaller when assembled than your typical elliptical machine—thereby making them more portable and easy to store, but also more convenient to place in smaller rooms.
Even Though these ellipticals do not fold, their compact size makes them ideal candidates worthy of being added to our list.
What We Mean by Collapsible Elliptical Machines
Our collapsible elliptical machines have the same look and feel as your traditional ellipticals. However, compared to our compact ellipticals, the collapsible ellipticals are bigger and have all of your mid to high-end elliptical machines’ extra features.
The feature to collapse and fold the machine will quickly transform your full-size elliptical into a more compact version.
Is an Elliptical Better than a Treadmill?
Compared to the collapsible and compact elliptical machines, the treadmill, in most cases, will require more floor space and is not as portable. Unless, of course, you are using a collapsible treadmill.
As for functionality, the treadmill is designed to mimic the natural movements of walking or running. However, the elliptical machine is the lower impact workout option of the two and can provide an additional upper body workout.
With that said, the elliptical can be better for the elderly or if you have joint issues.
The Top Key Features We Looked For
To make our list, all of our collapsible and compact elliptical machines had to meet the following criteria:
- First and foremost, collapsible and compact
- Portable and easily storable
- Transport wheels
- Multiple magnetic resistance levels
- Sturdy and solid construction
- Digital monitor
- Pulse sensors
- Hold at least 200 lbs.
Our 6 Best Collapsible & Compact Elliptical Machines Reviewed
I have chosen the following elliptical machines based on quality, functionality, customer feedback, overall ratings, and not to forget portability and space-saving design.
Also, find below a quick comparison table with some of the more essential features for each machine.
I have categorized these machines into two groups based on size and portability:
| COMPACT | Stride | Incline Degree | User Max | Cost |
| Sunny Health & Fit. SF-E905 | 11” | 0 | 220 lbs | * |
| Exerpeutic 1000XL | 13” | 0 | 325 lbs | * |
| Schwinn 411 Editor’s Choice Award | 18” | 0 | 300 lbs | ** |
| COLLAPSIBLE | Stride | Incline Degree | User Max | Cost |
| Horizon Evolve 3 Editor’s Choice | 20” | 0 | 300 lbs | *** |
| Nordic Track SE7i | 18” | 10 | 325 lbs | *** |
| ProForm 895 cse | 18” | 10 | 325 lbs | *** |
*Most Compact Elliptical Machines*
The following may not be collapsible elliptical machines, but they are incredibly lightweight and compact. That makes them ideal space-saving ellipticals for home, apartment, or office setups where floor space is limited.
#1 Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine
Our smallest elliptical machine!
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 is an extremely compact elliptical machine yet still has much to offer. Measuring a mere 28” L x 17” L x 57” H and only weighing 68 lbs makes it easy to transport and fit into any room.
This elliptical comes with both sturdy handles and exercise-arms to provide for an effective full-body workout.
This machine has 8 magnetic resistance levels and an 11” stride -shorter than your typical elliptical machine. Nonetheless, the short-burst step-like motions provide for a very effective and intensive low-impact cardio workout.
Key Features
- 8 level magnetic energy belt drive mechanism
- Stationary & full motion exercise arms
- Pulse sensors
- Large non-slip pedals
- Digital monitor
- Transport wheels & floor stabilizers
- Stride: 11”
- Max user weight: 220 lbs
- Product weight: 68 lbs
- Dimensions: 28”L x 17”W x 57”H
#2 Exerpeutic 1000XL with Bluetooth
Though not collapsible and measuring 54” in length, I still find this model to be a great bargain for a space saving elliptical. With transport wheels and weighing in at only 76lbs, the Exerpeutic 1000XL is easy to transport and fit into most smaller living spaces.
I appreciate the 1000XL’s wider 13” stride and the heavy-duty structure that supports up to 325 pounds.
This model also offers dual-action exercise arms and a dual-action precision-balanced flywheel for forward and backward motion and smooth and quiet operation.
Key Features
- 8 magnetic resistance levels
- Stationary & dual-action exercise arms
- Bluetooth & MyCloudFitness App
- Pulse sensors
- Large non-slip pedals
- Stride: 13”
- Large Digital monitor
- Transport wheels & floor stabilizers
- Max user weight: 325 lbs
- Product weight: 76 lbs
- Dimensions: 54”L x 23”W x 76”H
#3 Schwinn 411 Compact Elliptical
Editor’s Choice for the best compact elliptical machine!
The Schwinn 411 elliptical, featuring all the benefits of larger ellipticals, also offers an impressive 18” stride with a whopping 16 levels of variable resistance.
Quickly start your workout with any of the 23 integrated programs, or travel the globe with the “Explore the World” app where you can track your distance, pace, calories, time, heart rate, and map your routes.
This model does not have the option to collapse the machine, but this space saving elliptical has a small footprint that makes it a great buy for smaller areas.
Key Features
- 16 magnetic resistance levels
- Stationary & dual-action exercise arms
- Pulse sensors & Bluetooth Heart Rate Tracking
- Large non-slip pedals
- Stride: 18”
- 5.5” high-contrast LCD with media rack
- 23 integrated programs & “Explore the World App”
- Dual-action flywheel
- Transport wheels & floor stabilizers
- Max user weight: 300 lbs
- Product weight: 100 lbs
- Dimensions: 53.8”L x 24”W x 62.5”H
*Best Collapsible Elliptical Machines*
#4 Horizon Evolve 3 – “FeatherLight Folding”
Editor’s Choice for the best collapsible elliptical machine.
Horizon’s unique and revolutionary folding frame makes it super easy to collapse and store away after your workouts. Lift the platform from behind the pedals, and the hydraulic “FeatherLight” system kicks in to do the lifting for you.
The Evolve 3 also has a 20″ stride, which gives you a more natural feel when using this elliptical machine compared to others.
I highly recommend watching this short video demonstration to see just how incredibly easy the Evolve 3 is to fold up, but also learn more about its key features.
The Horizon SixStar frame is about moving the way you move and maintaining the ideal posture for a more comfortable and efficient workout routine.
Horizon stands behind their products and offers the following Home Warranties:
- Frame: Lifetime
- Brake: 3 years
- Parts: 3 years
- Labor: 1 year
Key Features
- FeatherLight folding; collapses for easy storage
- Transport wheels
- 20 electronically adjusted resistance levels
- 5.5” Yellow-Green LCD
- Built-in speakers
- 32 preset workouts & ViaFit Connected Technology
- Stationary & dual-action exercise arms
- Pulse sensors
- Tablet & water bottle holder
- Stride: 20”
- 18lb flywheel
- Max user weight: 300 lbs
- Product weight: 175 lbs
- Easy 3-step assembly
- Assembled dimensions: 69”L x 28”W x 69”H
- Folded dimension: 41”L x 28”W x 69”H
#5 NordicTrack Space Saver SE7i Elliptical Trainers
If you’re looking for a full-sized collapsible elliptical machine that offers more stability and more features than your lower-end models, the SE7i SpaceSave from Nordic Track is a great choice.
This elliptical comes with 22 magnetic resistance levels with convenient One Touch resistance controls. It not only offers 24 preset workouts, but you can also use the iFit Coach Ready app with over 16,000+ on-demand exercises and interactive personal training.
Other great features are the AutoBreeze Workout Fan, 5” backlit display and media holder, speakers, 0-10 Degree power-adjustable incline, and more.
Word of advice: Though this elliptical machine is collapsible, you will need to be capable of lifting 100 lbs to stand it upright. Or at least have a second person available to help.
Key Features
- Vertical Spacesaver design – fold up elliptical machine for easy storage
- 22 Digital magnetic resistance levels
- One-Touch resistance controls
- AutoBreeze Workout Fan
- 5” backlit display & media holder
- 24 preset workouts
- iFit Coach Ready (interactive personal training & 16,000+ on-demand workouts)
- Stationary & dual-action exercise arms
- Pulse sensors
- Large adjustable non-slip pedals
- 0 to 10 Degree power-adjustable incline
- Stride: 18”
- 18lb Effective flywheel
- Transport wheels & floor stabilizers
- Mostly assembled out of box
- Max user weight: 325 lbs
- Product weight: 215 lbs
- Dimensions: 80”L x 32”W x 67”H
#6 ProForm Space Saver Elliptical 895 CSE
If you were paying attention, you probably noticed how similar the ProForm 895 CSE Smart Strider is in appearance and features to the Nordic Track SE7i Space Saver.
When comparing the two models, I have found the differences to be as follows:
| Features | ProForm 895 CSE | Nordic Track SE7i |
|---|---|---|
| Monitor Display | 7” HD Full-Color Touchscreen Display | 5” backlit display |
| Preset Workouts | 32 | 24 |
| Resistance Levels | 24 | 22 |
| Product Weight | 190 | 215 |
I would suggest comparing prices and then decide which features are more important to you. If you like the price tag on the ProForm Space Saver elliptical, I would choose it since it is lighter and has more upgrades.
Key Features
- Vertical Spacesaver design folds up for easy storage
- Transport wheels
- 24 Digital magnetic resistance levels
- One Touch resistance controls
- CoolAire workout fan
- 7” HD Full-Color Touchscreen Display
- Built-in sound system
- 32 preset workouts & iFit Personal Training in your home
- Stationary & dual-action exercise arms
- Pulse sensors & heart rate monitor with included wireless chest strap
- Oversized cushioned pedals & adjustable leveling feet
- Tablet & water bottle holder
- 0 to 10 Degree power-adjustable incline
- Stride: 18”
- 18lb Effective inertia-enhanced flywheel
- Mostly assembled out of box
- Max user weight: 325 lbs
- Product weight: 190 lbs
- Dimensions: 80”L x 32”W x 65”H
My Recommendation for Best Compact Elliptical Trainer
I have chosen the Schwinn 411 as my #1 pick for the best space-saving elliptical trainer. Though it is not the smallest in our list, it still only measures a mere 53.8” L 24” W 62.5” H – making it ideal to fit in most apartments or small rooms in your home.
Furthermore, I was impressed by all the features this trainer has that you would typically only find in larger models. Some of these features would be the impressive 18” stride and the whopping 16 levels of variable magnetic resistance, 23 integrated programs, sensor grips, Bluetooth Heart Rate Tracking, 5.5” LCD & control module, and Explore the World App.
If you missed the video demo for this model, I would encourage you to watch it.
My Recommendation for Best Collapsible Elliptical Machine
As for the best collapsible elliptical machine, I have chosen the Horizon Evolve 3. This elliptical trainer is by far the easiest and lightest full-size trainer to fold. The hydraulics makes folding up this machine effortless for anyone. By slightly lifting the back end, the “FeatherLight” hydraulic system kicks in and does all the lifting for you.
The Horizon Evolve 3 also has the largest stride. The 20″ stride gives you a more natural feel when compared to other machines.
In addition to this most impressive feature, you can’t overlook all the other extras Evolve 3 has to offer. Here are a few:
- Easily folds up with patented “FeatherLight” hydraulics
- 20 electronically adjusted resistance levels
- 5.5” Monitor
- Speaker system
- 32 preset workouts & ViaFit Connected Technology
- Stationary & dual-action exercise arms
- Pulse sensors
- Tablet & water bottle holder
- Stride: 20”
- 18lb flywheel
- Max user weight: 300 lbs
You can go here to watch the demo video.
Features to Consider Before Buying a Compact Elliptical Machine
Size & Portability
Choosing the right size elliptical to fit your home or apartment is probably the first concern when shopping for an elliptical. We have compared two space-saving designs in this review.
Your first choice would be the smaller to mid-size elliptical, which is already compact in design and can easily fit into most rooms without sacrificing much space. These machines are lightweight and easy to move but do not offer all the extra features and benefits of your larger collapsible models yet are still effective cardio machines and get the job done.
Our collapsible ellipticals are bigger and heavier machines yet offer all the traditional elliptical machine benefits. However, these do require more floor space when in use but do fold together nicely to save space when not in use.
Weight Capacity
Though maximum user weight capacity is not necessarily an issue for most, it is still an important feature to consider. With that said, always check the weight capacity and make sure you do not exceed the manufacturer’s limitation.
Stride Length
If you are a taller individual or would like a larger, more natural stride, then I would suggest looking for a stride of around 18” or more. If you are shorter or enjoy a workout without shorter bursts, then the 10” to 15” strides would be the right choice.
Resistance Types & Levels
There are various types of resistance mechanisms to choose from when it comes to cardio machines, and with ellipticals, it is no different. But rather than bore you with a long list and definitions for each, I would suggest magnetic resistance over all others.
Magnet resistance has less moving parts than your belts, chains, ropes, or fans and will, therefore, require less maintenance and fewer repairs. That is why all of our ellipticals in this review have magnet resistance.
Incline
Having an adjustable incline on a treadmill is a great feature, but is it essential on an elliptical machine? Short answer, probably not.
Nonetheless, you will find that two of our collapsible elliptical machines offer an incline up to 10 degrees if that is what you prefer.
Display Console & Controls
Monitor display and size may be a significant factor when shopping for an elliptical machine and the controls and their functions.
You can pretty much count on all lower-end designs to at least include your basic functions and display stats such as heart rate, speed, time, and distance.
Other models may offer larger full-color touch displays that control additional functions such as preinstalled workout programs, tension level adjustments, incline adjustments, or other extras such as Bluetooth, speaker volume, or fans.
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With over 30 years of experience in strength training and fitness, Mark LaRue is the founder of Fitness Mastered, a blog to help educate fitness enthusiasts of all fitness levels, ages, and gender. We write topics that range from weight training tips and exercise routines to home workout machine and fitness related product reviews, to name a few.