The 6 Best Folding Ellipticals That Store Quickly
With folding ellipticals, you can save lots of space in your home and quickly store it when not in use. So, it makes perfect sense to buy a foldable elliptical machines if you live in smaller apartments or don’t have too much space.
Exercise is a really important part of our daily lives. It raises the blood levels, burns calories, and generally keeps us in shape. There are a variety of different ways to go about getting this exercise on a consistent basis. With the onset of COVID-19 and the shutdown of public gyms, home exercise has become more important than ever. Ellipticals are one of the machines that have shot up in popularity and are excellent for home exercise. The problem with these excellent machines is that they have a tendency to take up a lot of space. People with smaller apartments and homes or those who have a full household with the family might find that these exercise machines are just too impractical to actually get. So enters the folding elliptical.
The fold away elliptical machines give the benefits of the regular ellipticals like resistance settings that allow for the user to customize their workout by changing both their speed and the actual resistance of the machine. But they also come with the ability to fold up and decrease in size when not in use, allowing those with smaller living spaces to get the benefits of the elliptical workouts. The elliptical machines that fold up can really come in use for those who have suffered injuries in the past but still want to get some regular cardio workouts into their day.
However, the choice of which space saving foldable elliptical to pick can still be a tough one. Fortunately, we have sorted through the various fold up cross trainer machines on the market for you. Using a list of factors that we will go over at the end of the article, we have picked out the best folding ellipticals available on the market. With all of that out of the way, let’s get into the list!
Best Space Saving Ellipticals Compared
| Name | Stride | Incline | Warranty | Programs | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i Fold up Elliptical | 18" Fixed | 10-Degree Motorised | 2-Year Parts, 1-Year Labor | 30 Built-in programs | Bluetooth, folding, media shelf, & bottle holder |
| ProForm Smart Strider 895 CSE Folding Elliptical | 18" Fixed | 10-Degree Motorised | 2-Year Parts, 1-Year Labor | 24 Built-in programs | Bluetooth, folding, media shelf, & bottle holder |
| Horizon Fitness Evolve 3 Foldable Elliptical Trainer | 20" Fixed | No Incline | 3-Year Parts, 1-Year Labor | 32 Built-in programs | Bluetooth, folding, media shelf, & bottle holder |
| ProForm Smart Strider 495 CSE Fold Away Elliptical | 18" Fixed | No Incline | 1-Year Parts, 1-Year Labor | 18 Built-in programs | Bluetooth, folding, media shelf, & bottle holder |
| Gazelle Freestyle Folding Elliptical Cross Trainer | Unlimited | No Incline | 1-Year Parts | No Built-in programs | Easy one-step flat folding, & bottle holder |
| Sunny Health Fitness SF-E902 Air Walk Elliptical | Up to 30" | No Incline | 180-Days Parts | No Built-in programs | Easy one-step folding & cheap |
Quick Look at Best Collapsible Ellipticals in 2023:
NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i Fold up Elliptical
Up first we have the NordicTrack SpaceSaver SE9i Elliptical. This is the best of NordicTrack’s SpaceSaver series and our pick for the best on the market. The technology on this folding elliptical is honestly astonishing. It comes with a 7 inch smart touchscreen that will serve as your own personal trainer. That is because the SE9i comes with a 1-year iFit membership and access to thousands of workout videos, trainers, live challenges and more. The SE9i is a smart elliptical.
It offers a connection with Google maps in order to simulate the geography on whatever course you decide to take, as well as allowing trainers during live workouts to change your own resistance settings. The computer records and stores the statistics that can help you keep track of just how well you are doing. The 24 resistance settings that come with the elliptical allow you to choose whatever level of workout you are feeling like that day and change that setting at your whim. The 18 lb flywheel is both smooth and quiet, making even the most intense workouts a pleasant experience. Of course, these are all just the reasons about why it is a good elliptical. Good ellipticals alone don’t make it onto this list of top rated folding ellipticals.
They also have to store well. Unsurprisingly, the NordicTrack SE9i fold up elliptical does this as well as it does anything else. The entire front section folds right over and onto the rear, basically halving the space that the machine takes up. Of course, it is important to mention the price. The SpaceSaver SE9i is quite an expensive elliptical at $1,800. This is due to its intense use of technology, solid design and generous warranty. A great amount of features, but you have to pay for those features.
Additional Information:
The SE9i folding elliptical machine has a max user weight 325 lbs (147 kg). Its dimensions are 80 inches (203 cm) long, 32 inches (81 cm) wide and 77 inches (195 cm) tall. There are no specific dimensions listed for when the elliptical is folded. The stride length is not adjustable. It does have a 10% digital incline control. It has wireless compatibility with the iFit Bluetooth® Smart Chest Strap that is included, as well as a heart pulse monitor in the handles of the machine. There is a 10-year warranty on the frame, 2-year warranty on the parts and 1-year warranty on the labour.
ProForm Smart Strider 895 CSE Folding Elliptical
Coming in second on our list of the best folding ellipticals for the home is the ProForm Smart Strider 895 CSE. It is an excellent option for those who are just beginning to get into the world of ellipticals or those who have an intermediate experience with the machines. Like the SpaceSaver, this folding elliptical trainer has a 7 inch smart touchscreen that allows users to access both iFit programs and has an Android web browser.
This second function is particularly useful for those who don’t want to pay for the iFit membership once their 1-year free period is up. Additionally the 895 CSE has iPod-compatible speakers and an integrated shelf for easy view of your own tablet computer. It also has some other neat little utilities like a personal cooling fan, a drink holder, cushioned pedals and cushioned hand grips for the moving arm bars. All of these help contribute to a more comfortable workout. The 895 CSE is pre-loaded with 24 different personal training workouts that emphasize weight loss/maintenance and performance.
The programs automatically control and adjust both the 24 resistance levels and the 10% incline that the elliptical has. Similar to the SE9i, the 895 CSE folds the front section back onto the rear, significantly decreasing the space that the machine takes up. The full price is of questionable value. At a cost of $2000, there are other ellipticals that might be better for the value. However, if one can be found at a discounted or lower price, then this would be an excellent purchase.
Additional Information:
The 895 CSE folding cross trainer has a max user weight of 325 lbs (147 kg). Its dimensions are 80 inches (203 cm) long, 32 inches (81 cm) wide and 65 inches (165 cm) tall. There are no specific dimensions listed for when the elliptical is folded. It has an 18 inch stride that is not adjustable. The incline adjustment is 10% and adjustable electronically. It comes with a chest strap and heart rate can also be measured by gripping the sensors on the handlebars. It is a smart elliptical. There is a 10-year warranty on the frame, 2-year warranty on the parts and 1-year warranty on the labour.
Horizon Fitness Evolve 3 Foldable Elliptical Trainer
Up next we have the Horizon Fitness Evolve 3 Elliptical. Coming down from the mystical land of super advanced computers and screens that send you all around the world, the Evolve 3 makes the assembly process simple, the storage easy and the workout comfortable. Just about anyone can be up and moving in minutes thanks to the simple, three-step assembly. The ViaFit program that comes with the elliptical allows you to keep track of the various statistics and data that can elevate your exercise to a new level of efficiency. That exercise will certainly have some options with the Evolve 3.
It comes with 32 programs, that include: manual, 6 calorie, 10 distance, 10 step, 3 interval and 2 performance. But that isn’t all. Despite the relatively simple layout of the Evolve 3’s computer, it comes with Horizon Fitness’ Passport™ program. This allows you to connect to a TV at home and look at countries all across the world while you exercise. Why work out staring at a blank TV or the news when you could be looking out over the mountains in Bavaria or the outback of Australia.
With everything about this folding elliptical cross trainer designed to be easy and simple in the assembly process, the folding process is just as easy. All of this for a price of $1,200 (at the time of writing) is an absolute steal. The only real negatives come when one looks at the Folding elliptical machine reviews and customer service. With Horizon Fitness being based in Taiwan, it can be a bit troublesome to call when/if the machine breaks down. Reports have shown service calls are often needed within the first year.
Additional Information:
The Evolve 3 fold-away elliptical has a max user weight of 300 lbs (136 kg) and weighs 175 lbs (79 kg). Its dimensions are 69 inches (175 cm) long, 28 inches (71 cm) wide and 69 inches (175 cm) tall when fully assembled. When folded its dimensions are 41 inches (104 cm) long, 28 inches (71 cm) wide and 69 inches (175 cm) tall. It has a 20-inch nonadjustable stride length. It has no incline adjustments. It can connect to wireless heart rate monitors. It has a lifetime warranty on the frame, 3-year warranty on the parts and 1-year warranty on the labour.
ProForm Smart Strider 495 CSE Fold Away Elliptical
Another Smart Strider enters the ring from ProForm. The 495 CSE is a very good elliptical for those who are just beginning to start their elliptical journey. It comes with 18 different workout programs preloaded on the elliptical console. If you like those preset workouts that iFit coaching gives to you, the 495 CSE also comes with the ability to load up those provided that you have an iFit membership. This membership also comes with the quite fun ability to use Google maps to track and change the incline depending on the environment you choose to run through.
The ProForm Smart Strider 495 CSE console has a standard data window for time, distance, calories and pulse. Pulse and heart beat are measured through sensors on the handlebars. It comes with a bunch of neat little accessories like a water bottle holder, iPod-compatible speakers and wheels in order to make transportation that much easier. With a 13 lb flywheel, this fold up cross trainer is most certainly light. The only issue is that this means that there isn’t a huge level of natural resistance.
For those looking to really get their high-level cardio grind on, this probably would not be a good place to look for it. While foldable, it still is pretty sizable, so it might not be the best elliptical for those with extremely small living areas. It is cheaper than some other foldable elliptical machines, although it will still set you back about $1000 if bought at retail price. It has been listed lower before, so one might want to look for the cheaper price of ~$600 instead.
Additional Information:
The 495 CSE foldable cross trainer has a max user weight of 275 lbs (125 kg). Its dimensions are 65 inches (165 cm) long, 32 inches (81 cm) wide and 80 inches (203 cm) tall. It has a stride length of 18 inches (45.7 cm) and is not adjustable. There is no incline adjustment. The only heart rate monitor is the hand sensors. The warranty that the Smart Strider 495 CSE comes with is quite poor, with a lifetime warranty on the frame, and only a 1-year warranty on the parts and labour.
Gazelle Freestyle Folding Elliptical Cross Trainer
The Gazelle Freestyle by Tony Little is a rather minimalist elliptical compared to many of the other options on this list. With little more than a bunch of steel frames and a couple of platforms to put your feet, this machine really does look different than the standard elliptical. It offers a solid 10 exercises, however 8 of these come on DVDs that come with the machine. It displays the basic tracking features on its console like speed, distance, time and calories burned. It can also track your heart rate with a thumb pulse monitor.
In terms of the compactness of this folding cross trainer, it might just top the list. It can fold into an almost totally flat design, which can end up saving an absolute ton of space. Because of the minimal design, the Gazelle Freestyle does have to be quite heavy in order to accommodate its 300 lb weight limit. That heavy weight works well to ensure a very stable workout for the user. Again, this design makes for a very simple assembly and a durable machine. It won’t fall apart on you or break easily because it is essentially just a series of beams locked to each other.
Of course, one of the most notable parts of this folding elliptical trainer is the price. For right around $200, you have got one of the cheapest machines on the market. For those who are just looking to grab a piece of home exercise equipment without dropping an absolute fortune on it, this might just be on that list as well. Admittedly, it isn’t perfect. The resistance level on this machine is pretty pathetic. With only one resistance level, it is going to be extremely difficult to get a high-intensity workout done. The only way to control the intensity is the incline and how fast you move your arms and legs. This might be a big setback for anyone looking to really get intense workouts done. However, it must be said that overall the Gazelle Freestyle is a solid elliptical for the price.
Additional Information:
The Gazelle Freestyle has a max user weight of 300 lbs (136 kg) and weighs 52 lbs (23.6 kg). Its dimensions are 44 inches (112 cm) long, 33.5 inches (85 cm) wide and 53.5 inches (136 cm) tall. There is no incline adjustment. There are heart rate sensors in the handles, but their accuracy is questionable. It has a 12-month warranty.
Sunny Health Fitness SF-E902 Air Walk Elliptical
Rounding out our list of folding elliptical reviews is the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E902 Air Walk collapsible elliptical. If you thought the Gazelle Freestyle was minimalist, this elliptical might be abstract in comparison. Coming mostly pre-assembled, the SF-E902 only needs the arms, display console, and the abdominal support pads attached. It has an LCD monitor that displays the time, count, total distance and calories.
With non-slip pedals and a weight limit of 220 lbs, this elliptical is certainly a solid choice for those who are looking to start working out and don’t want to stress their joints too much. Because of the movable arms, you will also get a solid arm workout on the SF-E902 as well. Of course, this elliptical wouldn’t be here if it weren’t foldable and compact. Well, the already tiny dimensions can fold into an even smaller space.
It is light enough to pick up and put in a corner before answering the door. The SF-E905 is also decently adaptable to people of different heights. Unfortunately, this elliptical does not have an adjustable stride length or incline adjustment. It also has no preset workout programs and has a very low resistance level. Good for those looking to simply get some exercise in, but not for those trying to get some intense workouts in.
Additional Information:
The SF-E902 folding elliptical trainer has a max user weight of 220 lbs (100 kg) and weighs 3 lbs (15.9 kg). Its dimensions when fully assembled are 25 inches (63.5 cm) long, 19 inches (48 cm) wide and 57 inches (145 cm) tall. When folded it is 15 inches (38 cm) long, 19 inches (48 cm) wide and 61.5 inches (156 cm) tall. It has a 30 inch (76 cm) stride length that is not adjustable. It’s incline is not adjustable. There are no heart monitor capabilities with this elliptical. It has a 3-year warranty on the frame and 180-day warranty on the other parts.
Buyer’s Guide When Choosing a Folding Cross Trainer
That wraps up our list. Now we’re going to look at some of the factors that we took into consideration when building an elliptical machine. Keep these in mind with your own hunt for a foldable elliptical.
The price. Obviously we have both expensive and cheap ellipticals on this list. Depending on what your budget is and what you want in a foldable elliptical, that can make all the difference.
The technology. Some of these machines come with extremely advanced consoles and features, while others simply don’t. They can be nice features, but not always necessary for a good workout. The smart ellipticals generally tend to have higher degrees of technology available compared to those that aren’t. These include access to iFit, preprogrammed workout programs, and electronically adjustable inclines during the workout.
The space. Because you are looking for a foldable elliptical, it is important to see how much space they take up. For those with smaller living areas, this can be the difference maker. Especially some of the larger machines that, while they fold, don’t really become all that much smaller.
The warranty. Considering how expensive some of these machines are, you will want guaranteed replacements if they break. A quality warranty usually comes with a quality piece of equipment.
The resistance capabilities. Some of these ellipticals just aren’t made for aspiring athletes or those trying to really get in shape. Generally you will want to look and see how many resistance levels (if it has more than one) an elliptical will have and how high the resistance can actually go. This can make a key difference on how satisfied you are with your purchase.
FAQs About Foldable Elliptical Trainers
Q: How do I fold up my elliptical?
A: That generally depends on the build and model of the ellipticals. It varies. There should be instructions that come with the machine that tells you exactly how to fold the piece of equipment. Of course, some are easier to fold than others, but most foldable ellipticals generally are pretty easy to fold.
Q: How do I store my elliptical?
A: That’s generally up to you. Many of the larger foldable ellipticals can be stored vertically in closets or other corner spaces. Of course, the lighter styles of ellipticals like the SF-E905 and Gazelle Freestyle are able to be stored just about anywhere. Their extreme foldability and lightweight nature makes them the ideal candidates for this purpose.
Q: How do I know if my foldable elliptical is smart?
A: Smart folding ellipticals are those like the SpaceSaver SE9i and Smart Strider 895 CSE. They have advanced technological features like Bluetooth and Internet connections, automatically adjusting stride lengths and incline adjustments, have entertainment features, and usually have connections to fitness programs like iFit.
Conclusion
Hi, my name is Sayed Hamed Hosseiny. I am a professional health and fitness trainer with nearly 20 years of experience using ellipticals, rowing machines, and spin bikes. I also have my own EU-based Rock Fitness Pro fitness brand where I design, import and sell exercise equipment such as rowing machines and spin bikes. I and writers on my team also often receive fitness equipment to review and evaluate their functionalities and performance from tens of different exercise machines manufacturers. Fitness equipment tips, guides, reviews, and comparisons on this website are my opinion (and opinions of my fitness expert colleagues) based on tens of criteria. I never accept payment to write reviews of products or say positive things about fitness equipment products. If brands are interested to have me review their rowers, ellipticals, or spin bikes, they can get in touch with me via email provided on the contact page and send a sample of their product.
