How to choose an elliptical trainer?

An elliptical trainer is a gentle cardio workout for the whole body – smooth movement without hard impacts, so it is easy on the joints and can be used regularly at home.

It engages your legs, glutes and core, and thanks to the movable handles, often your arms as well, so you can improve your fitness and burn calories in one activity. In this category, you will find both classic elliptical trainers and mini elliptical trainers that fit under your desk.

Quick selection

I want to exercise at work/at home at my desk, or for rehabilitation
→ consider a mini elliptical trainer (quiet, compact, simple), e.g. MERACH E43B1 mini stepper

I want the cheapest possible basic model for occasional home use
→ look for models with a shorter stride and lower weight capacity (typically “entry level”), e.g. Acra EB5400 elliptical trainer

I want a universal machine for the family (the most common choice)
Brother BE540 elliptical trainer

I want a robust machine, stability and comfort even for taller people
→ go for a heavier construction and higher weight capacity (often 150 kg for ACRA), e.g. ACRA BE51 elliptical trainer

I want programmes / more precise load control / connection to apps
→ choose “programmable” models (magnetic brake controlled by an electric motor, better display, more metrics), e.g. BROTHER BE92E elliptical trainer

The 5 most important parameters

1) Stride length (ergonomics)

The most important thing with an elliptical trainer is that the stride length suits your height – otherwise you will be “tripping” or, conversely, stretching your stride unnaturally. This is also mentioned as a key parameter by shopping guides across e-shops.

ACRA’s range typically includes strides of 32 cm (basic) or 36–42 cm (adjustable).

2) Spacing between skis (footplate spacing)

Simply put, the more natural your stance, the better it is for your knees and the more comfortable your workout will be. ACRA lists this as “spacing between skis” (e.g. approx. 17.5–19 cm) for its models.

3) Load capacity + recommended user height

Do not underestimate this – it is good to take the load capacity with a grain of salt. Typical load capacity levels (e.g. 90 / 110 / 150 kg) are shown in this category.

4) Braking system and load levels

For home use, a magnetic brake (quiet, smooth) is most common. In more advanced models, the magnetic brake can be controlled by an electric motor (more comfortable load changes, “programme” mode).

5) Stability (machine weight) + quiet operation (belt)

Stability can often be determined by the weight of the machine – lighter models are suitable for lighter modes, while more robust machines are more comfortable for longer workouts. ACRA models weigh 29 kg (basic) vs. around 50 kg (more robust).

Many models use a flat belt (quiet operation in the home).

Recommendations based on needs

A) Mini elliptical trainer “under the desk” (office, active sitting, rehabilitation)

MERACH E43B1 mini stepper: compact, “under-desk”, magnetic resistance (8 levels), very quiet operation, suitable for light exercise and stretching.

B) Basic for undemanding users (occasional home use)

Acra EB5400: magnetic brake (8 levels), 6 kg flywheel, 32 cm stride length, 90 kg weight capacity, recommended height up to 180 cm.

C) Family all-rounder (most common type)

Brother BE540: magnetic brake (8 levels), 6 kg flywheel, 32 cm stride length, weight capacity 110 kg.

D) More robust home elliptical trainer (stability, taller users, regular training)

ACRA BE51: magnetic brake (8 levels), 7 kg flywheel, adjustable stride length 34–42 cm, weight capacity 150 kg, recommended height up to 195 cm.
ACRA BE91: magnetic braking system, 9 kg flywheel, stride length 36–42 cm, load capacity 150 kg, recommended height up to 200 cm.

E) Programmable model + app (for motivation and “smarter” training)

BROTHER BE92E: electric motor-controlled magnetic brake, 9 kg flywheel, stride length 36–42 cm, 7″ LED display, power in watts, load capacity 150 kg.

The category page also features an “Application” filter, which indicates the possibility of using training applications via mobile phone/tablet on selected models.