ProForm Carbon EX Review, Pros, Cons
The ProForm Carbon EX is the last entry on the Carbon Series and it’s a solid elliptical available at an affordable price. It’s definitely an upgrade from the Carbon EL and there are differences that can persuade some users to spend a little more for the Carbon EX. In today’s ProForm Carbon EX elliptical review, we will go through all the features this elliptical has to offer so you can determine if this is the right option for you. It’s one of the best ellipticals on the market, that’s certain!
This ProForm elliptical trainer is packed with great performance features, such as a 6-inch high contrast display, a 20-pound flywheel, a 19-inch stride length, silent magnetic resistance, 20 resistance levels, fixed and mobile handlebars, oversized pedals, and so much more. The ProForm Carbon EX is also sturdy and provides great stability for users during their workouts. It’s also comfortable and it will fit a great variety of users, so it’s perfect for households with multiple trainees.
One of the best things about the ProForm Carbon EX is that it offers a smooth ride and it provides a great challenge for all fitness levels. The ProForm Carbon EX is iFit-enabled and it’s actually designed to work only with iFit, which is why it doesn’t come with built-in workout programs. However, the iFit subscription is definitely worth the investment as it will make it easier for you to reach your fitness goals and it provides a lot more fitness content and tools to enjoy. Let’s continue with the ProForm Carbon EX elliptical review and take a more in-depth look at everything that makes this elliptical such a great option.
| Screen:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | 6"⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Bluetooth:⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ | Yes⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰⋰ |
| Heart Rate: | Pulse and Wireless | Power Source: | Standard Plugin |
| USB Charging Port: | No | Display: | LED Screen |
| Drive: | Front | Flywheel Weight: | 20 Pounds |
| Warranty: | 2-Year Parts | 1-Year Labor | Compact: | Yes |
| Machine Weight: | 195 Lbs | Folding: | No |
| Dimensions: | 68.5" L x 25" W x 67.75" H | Speaker: | Yes |
| Max user weight: | 325 Lbs | Cooling Fan: | Yes |
| Resistance: | 20-Level Magnetic | Media Shelf: | Yes |
| Incline Ramp: | 20° Power Adjustable | Bottle Holder: | Yes |
| Stride Length: | 19" Fixed | Handlebars: | Without Built-in Controls |
| Programs: | None | Better Alternative: | Nautilus E618 |
ProForm Carbon EX Review and Specs:
The ProForm Carbon EX has a user weight capacity of 325 pounds. This doesn’t only mean that this elliptical can accommodate a variety of users perfectly, it also means that it provides a ton of stability. The greater the weight capacity, the more stable you’ll be during your most intense workout sessions. The dimensions of the ProForm Carbon EX are 68.5″ L x 25″ W x 67.75″ H, so it’s not a compact elliptical.
However, the ProForm Carbon EX features front-mounted transport wheels that make it super easy for you to move the elliptical around to find the perfect spot in your home gym or store it somewhere else whenever you need it. It also comes with oversized levelers so the elliptical can always be stable, even if the surface is uneven. The ProForm Carbon EX works with an AC adapter, so make sure you have a power outlet.
Another great thing about the ProForm Carbon EX is the height capacity. Thanks to the 19-inch stride length, this elliptical can accommodate users up to 6’ tall. If you’re taller than that, this stride length can be a bit short for you and you’d have to adjust your stride a bit, which means it won’t feel as natural as it could. The ceiling requirements dictate that the ProForm Carbon EX should be in a room where the ceiling is at least 8 feet tall so you can be fully comfortable.
ProForm Carbon EX Elliptical Monitor
The ProForm Carbon EX features a 6-inch high contrast display, which is great and it will provide all your important workout stats. You’ll also be able to control all the features very easily. One thing to keep in mind about the ProForm Carbon EX is that it doesn’t feature any built-in workout programs. That’s because the ProForm Carbon EX is iFit-enabled and Bluetooth-enabled. This ProForm elliptical is designed to work exclusively with iFit, for which you need a membership. However, it’s worth it because it provides a ton of value.
iFit is a super dynamic and interactive community that provides many benefits for trainees. You’ll have access to unlimited workout programs, trainer-led workout sessions during which the instructors will control the resistance level, and Google Maps routes. You’ll be able to choose from predetermined routes or create your own so you can visit any place on earth from the comfort of your own home. The experience is immersive because the machine adjusts the incline and resistance depending on the terrain so you can feel you’re really going through these routes.
Another great thing about getting an iFit membership is that you’ll have access to many fitness features, including workout tracking, which is super useful. The iFit program automatically tracks your stats and saves them so you can see your progress and keep yourself motivated to reach bigger fitness goals. The ProForm Carbon EX also features heart rate monitoring with EKG pulse sensors so you can track your heart rate during your workouts. Overall, this ProForm elliptical trainer is powerful and provides a complete gym experience right at home.
ProForm Carbon EX Stride and Incline
Stride and incline are easily two of the most important features of elliptical trainers. They determine how much comfort users will enjoy and also how challenging the workouts will be. You’ll be happy to know ProForm understands this very well, so they provide great stride and incline in all of their elliptical trainers. The ProForm Carbon EX has a 19-inch stride that accommodates a great variety of users and allows them to enjoy a stride that feels natural and comfortable.
The ProForm Carbon EX incline goes up to 20 degrees and features a power-adjustable incline ramp. You will be able to adjust the incline simply by pushing a button on the console. Incline is super important in ellipticals because this is what allows you to target different lower-body muscle groups. Depending on the incline level, you will be able to focus on glutes, quads, and calves, to feel the burn and enjoy a more realistic trail training experience, especially when you’re working out with Google Maps routes.
Another great thing about the ProForm Carbon EX is that it features a 20-pound inertia-enhanced flywheel that provides a smooth and steady experience. Thanks to the faster gear ratio and the effective placement of weight, this elliptical can provide a natural stride during workouts. The ProForm Carbon EX also offers 20 levels of silent magnetic resistance, so you’ll be able to challenge yourself more as your fitness level improves. Not to mention, the silent magnetic resistance makes for a smooth, silent, and frictionless workout experience.
ProForm Carbon EX Handlebars and Pedals
As you would expect from any high-quality elliptical, the ProForm Carbon EX features two sets of handlebars. You have the fixed handlebars and the mobile handlebars. The fixed handlebars come with EKG pulse sensors which will monitor your heart rate as long as you’re holding the handlebars. Another great thing about them is they allow you to rest your upper-body if you don’t want a full-body workout.
The mobile handlebars on the ProForm Carbon EX are comfortable with soft touch grips and they will allow you to engage your upper-body muscles, including your arms, shoulders, back, and core. They have a slight curved design as well, which looks good and adds to the comfort. Unfortunately, the ProForm Carbon EX handlebars don’t feature built-in controls. All the controls for the features are on the console, but they’re easy to reach, so you won’t have a hard time adjusting things while you’re working out.
The ProForm Carbon EX pedals are adjustable, oversized, and cushioned. They will fit any shoe size and because they’re cushioned, they are very comfortable. This is important if you want to engage in long workout sessions often. Another great thing about the pedals is they’re adjustable so you’ll be able to adjust the angle to target your lower-body muscles differently and up the challenge even more.
ProForm Carbon EX Accessories and Assembly
This ProForm elliptical trainer is not only packed with performance features that do a great job, it also comes with several accessories that make your experience that much better. The ProForm Carbon EX features an integrated tablet holder that’s conveniently placed so you can access iFit and also enjoy your entertainment while you’re working out. You can watch movies, TV shows, or even get some things done, like answering emails and more.
The ProForm Carbon EX also features a sound systems with dual 2-inch speakers and an audio auxiliary port. Music is a great way to keep yourself motivated and it can help you keep a steady pace because you’re inclined to match the tempo of the songs you listen to. Music can also distract you from exertion so you can finish your workout session even if you feel like you can’t continue. The ProForm Carbon EX also comes with a water bottle holder for hydration, which is very important.
The assembly process for the ProForm Carbon EX is not difficult, but it will require at least a couple of hours. You can get someone to help you to move things along faster and because the machine is heavy and not compact. They provide instructions that are clear and easy to follow, so you won’t have an issue with assembly.
ProForm Carbon EX Warranty, Price, and Shipping
The ProForm Carbon EX offers warranty that’s alright, but it could be better. You get 10-year coverage for the frame, 2-year coverage for parts, and 1-year coverage for labor. Though it could be better, it’s important to note that at this price range, they offer above-average terms, so your elliptical will be protected. They also have a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can get a refund if you’re not happy with the elliptical.
You can find the ProForm Carbon EX for purchase on the ProForm site for $999 or $56 a month for 18 months. If you finish your payment within these 18 months, they won’t charge any interest. They also offer free shipping, which is always nice and they offer a few delivery options as well.
If you ever need anything, you will be able to contact ProForm’s customer service without too much trouble. Simply go to their Contact page and find the relevant department for your doubts or issues so you can reach out. They will get back to you and help you with anything you need.
ProForm Carbon EX Elliptical Pros:
- Sturdy and high-quality machine.
- Low-impact, full-body workout.
- 20 levels of silent magnetic resistance.
- 6-inch high contrast display.
- EKG pulse sensors and 20-pound flywheel.
- Fixed and mobile handlebars.
- Oversized, adjustable, and cushioned pedals.
- Smooth and stable workout experience.
- Power Incline of up to 20 degrees.
- iFit-enabled and Bluetooth-enabled.
- Tablet holder and Water bottle holder.
- Sound system with dual 2-inch speakers.
- Transport wheels and Uncomplicated assembly process.
- Weight capacity of 325 pounds and Affordable price tag.
ProForm Carbon EX Elliptical Cons:
- No workout programs and No cooling fan.
- No built-in controls on the handlebars.
- Fixed 19-inch stride length.
- No wireless heart rate monitoring.
Final Verdict
The ProForm Carbon EX is one of the best ellipticals on the market at this price range. It offers an abundance of features that will challenge any trainee and allow them to reach their fitness goals effectively. It’s comfortable, versatile, fits a wide variety of users, and provides a great full-body workout. The iFit membership offers great value by providing access to unlimited workouts and a great variety of features. This is definitely an option worth considering!
Sayed Hamed Hosseiny
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.
