Which elliptical machine is best in test in 2026?

The Abilica Premium FC BT is named best in test, with the Toorx ERX-900 TFT as best premium model and the Abilica E 300 as best budget model.

Have the machines in the test been physically tested?

No. The products on the list have not been physically tested; the evaluation is based on the product's features, specifications, manufacturer information, external tests, customer feedback and price.

What stride length should I choose?

The taller you are, the longer the stride length you need. Cheaper models typically have a fixed stride length of 30-40 cm, while more expensive models have 40-50 cm and can often be adjusted. If you are over 170 cm, you should not choose a model with a stride length of less than 40 cm.

What is the difference between electromagnetic and permanent magnetic resistance?

Electromagnetic resistance (EMS) has no moving wear parts that need replacing and can be cheaper to operate over time, but is more expensive to buy. Permanent magnetic resistance (PMS) is found in more affordable models and consists of wear parts that need to be replaced.

How much space do I need around an elliptical machine?

You should allow approximately 50-60 cm of free space in all directions, because the machine has many moving parts that require more room than when it is stationary. For ceiling height, measure the highest point of the pedal plus the height of the tallest user plus 20 cm.

Does a heavier flywheel matter?

Yes. The heavier the flywheel, the smoother and greater the resistance. A flywheel that is too light will not give the same smooth motion, as the movement can stall slightly with each pedal stroke.

Elliptical Machine/Crosstrainer Top 10 – Best in Test 2026! | Hardworkout Magazine

Key takeaways

- Elliptical machines at gyms are front-wheel driven and have a stride length of 51 cm; buyers over 170 cm tall should avoid models with a stride length under 40 cm.

- Electromagnetic resistance (EMS) has no moving wear parts and can be cheaper to run over time, while permanent magnetic resistance (PMS) is cheaper to buy but relies on parts that wear out.

- Rear-wheel driven machines are generally smaller and easier to move, while front-wheel driven machines give a smoother motion and a longer stride length.

- An elliptical machine needs roughly 50-60 cm of free space in every direction, plus ceiling height equal to the highest pedal point, the tallest user's height and 20 cm.

We give you the overview of the best elliptical machine/crosstrainer on the market in 2026!

What is an elliptical machine good for?

Training with an elliptical machine is effective and gentle training for the whole body, where you can train both strength and endurance.

At the bottom of the article, you can read more about different types of elliptical machines, what to look for, and the criteria for this test.

How do we rank the machines in this test?

We at Hardworkout.no are committed to ensuring that the tests are independent and credible. By shopping through the links in the test, you contribute to our ability to continue publishing quality-conscious tests and articles, and we greatly appreciate it if you do so.

The products on this list have not been physically tested by us, and the evaluation is based on the product's features, external tests, customer feedback, and price.

PS: Prices and selection may vary from day to day. The prices we provide are recommended prices. Online stores often have good deals, and the products may be on sale at a lower price than what is stated here.

We always strive to keep the list updated with products that are in stock. Where there are multiple alternative prices, we link to several stores.

- Best in test: [Abilica Premium FC BT](https://hardworkout.no/abilica-premiumFCBT)

- Best premium model: [Toorx ERX-900 TFT](https://hardworkout.no/Toorx-ERX-900-TFT)

- Best budget model: [Abilica E 300](https://hardworkout.no/abilica-e-300-crosstrainer)

Criteria for the Test

The products in this top list have been selected and ranked based on construction, movement, features, ease of use, and value for money. None of the elliptical machines have been physically tested by us, but evaluated based on specifications, manufacturer information, and available test data.

The list includes elliptical machines in various price ranges. None of the products are poor choices, but they differ in terms of build quality, training options, feature levels, and price.

Construction and Build Quality (25)

This assesses the frame, material choice, maximum user weight, and the elliptical machine's own weight.

These factors are significant for stability, durability, and how well the elliptical machine withstands regular use over time.

Movement and Resistance System (25)

This criterion evaluates characteristics that affect the actual movement on the elliptical machine.

Stride length, resistance system, flywheel weight, number of resistance levels, and any adjustment options are included in the assessment. Elliptical machines with long stride lengths, smooth resistance, and good customization options score higher than simpler alternatives.

Features (20)

This criterion assesses what features and training options the elliptical machine offers.

Elliptical machines with training programs, app integration, heart rate-controlled programs, watt control, and incline functions score higher than simpler elliptical machines with fewer features.

Ease of Use (20)

Ease of use is about how simple the elliptical machine is to use in daily life.

Screen, controls, quick buttons, menus, transport wheels, and other practical solutions are included in the assessment. We also emphasize how easy it is to navigate between features and training programs.

Price / Value for Money (10)

This criterion evaluates the relationship between price, quality, and feature level.

A more expensive elliptical machine must offer clear advantages to achieve a high score, while more affordable options are rewarded if they deliver a lot of quality and functionality relative to the price.

Training with an elliptical machine / crosstrainer has several advantages:

- You train the whole body effectively in the same exercise, as all the major muscle groups are used simultaneously.

- You train strength and endurance at the same time. You train arms, legs, chest, abdomen, and shoulders all at once, in addition to training your endurance. The training effect can thus be related to the training you achieve by cross-country skiing.

- Calorie consumption skyrockets, and this form of training is well-suited for those who want to use exercise as a tool for weight loss.

- Low risk of injury, and the strain on muscles, skeleton, and joints is low.

- Well suited for both training, rehabilitation after injury/illness, and training for various age groups.

- Very easy to use. In the elliptical machine, the movement path is locked, and you just have to "follow along" with the machine. You do not need to spend time learning the technique.

- Low noise level. The elliptical machine can be used anywhere, even in the living room in front of the TV without it being disruptive.

![ellipsemaskin test](https://hardworkout.no/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/imgonline-com-ua-compressed-woCJk51X815-225x150.jpg)

What to look for before purchasing an elliptical machine/crosstrainer

Price

First and foremost – price! Elliptical machines come in all price ranges, and you can choose to spend anything from a few thousand kroner to well over an average monthly salary.

Quality is usually related to price, and the more you pay, the better the machine generally is. Quality in this context can be related to robustness, number of features, possibility for adjustments, type of resistance, design, user-friendliness, etc.

The advantage for you as a consumer is that elliptical machines, even in the budget class, are usually very good, and you do not necessarily have to break the bank to get a really good elliptical machine / crosstrainer.

Features

Display

Even if you may not see the number of features as the most important, there are some things a good elliptical machine actually should have for you to get the most out of it.

First of all, it should have a good display/training computer that allows you to see training information such as distance, time, resistance, heart rate, calories, training programs, etc.

Training Programs

Most machines come with a variety of preset training programs that make it easy to get started with your training quickly.

Quick keys make it even easier to get started when you just want to begin training as quickly as possible.

The more expensive models can often be connected to mobile/tablet via Bluetooth, and support training apps that allow you to train in a virtual world where the resistance on routes created in Google Earth is automatically adjusted according to the terrain. Several models can be connected to apps like Zwift, Kinomap, and iConsole.

Is front-wheel or rear-wheel drive best?

Elliptical machines / crosstrainers come with either front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive.

Rear-wheel drive elliptical machines have the advantage of generally being smaller and more space-saving. If you envision that the elliptical machine will be moved frequently between different rooms, then a rear-wheel drive elliptical machine may be the best option.