ProForm Smart Strider 495 CSE Review
The ProForm 495 CSE is the least inexpensive option in the Smart Strider Series and it’s a great entry-level elliptical for people who want to enjoy the benefits of full-body training. This ProForm elliptical trainer is not as fancy as the 895 CSE or 695 CSE but it does the job and at a bargain price point for multiple-user households who are beginner or intermediate level trainees. Not all budget ellipticals can handle multiple users or offer as many performance features as this one. That’s why today we’re doing a complete ProForm 495 CSE elliptical review! We’ll take a look at everything this exercise machine has to offer so you can determine if it’s the right choice for you.
As budget elliptical trainers go, the ProForm 495 CSE has a lot to offer. It’s a light-duty elliptical that’s compact and requires very little assembly. It features an 18-inch stride, 18 resistance levels, 18 workout programs, an LED display, and it’s iFit enabled, which means a subscription will buy you access to unlimited workout programs, routes, and tools. The ProForm 495 CSE elliptical trainer also comes with accessories that will make your experience a bit smoother, such as a cooling fan, speakers, a tablet holder, and a water bottle holder.
Of course, it has a few drawbacks but they’re to be expected when the elliptical is under $1,000. One of the drawbacks is that it has a light flywheel that’s only 13 pounds. This is below average for home ellipticals, so it will offer less of a challenge. That’s exactly why it is marketed as an entry-level elliptical. Advanced trainees won’t find the challenge they’re looking for with this machine, but beginners and intermediate level users, will find it more than adequate. Now, let’s get deeper into this ProForm 495 CSE elliptical review and learn all about it.
| Screen: | 3x3 Round LED | Bluetooth: | Yes |
| Heart Rate: | Pulse and Wireless | Power Source: | AC Adapter |
| USB Charging Port: | No | Display: | LED |
| Drive: | Rear | Flywheel Weight: | 13 Pounds |
| Warranty: | 1-Year Parts | 1-Year Labor | Compact: | Yes |
| Machine Weight: | 183 Lbs | Folding: | Yes |
| Dimensions: | 65" L x 32" W x 80" H | Speaker: | Yes |
| Max user weight: | 275 Lbs | Cooling Fan: | Yes |
| Resistance: | 18-Level Magnetic | Media Shelf: | Yes |
| Incline Ramp: | None | Bottle Holder: | Yes |
| Stride Length: | 18" Fixed | Handlebars: | Without Built-in Controls |
| Programs: | 18 | Better Alternative: | ProForm 695 CSE |
ProForm 495 CSE Review and Specs:
The ProForm 495 CSE has a user weight capacity of 275 pounds, which is quite low. However, because this elliptical is not built for super intense and advanced workouts, it will still be stable. Remember, user weight capacity is not only about the kind of users the machine can accommodate, but also about the stability the machine can provide. If this elliptical was built for advanced users, the user weight capacity would definitely be a deal-breaker, but it’s not the case.
When it comes to size, the ProForm 495 CSE is super compact. The dimensions are 65″ L x 32″ W x 80″ H, so it won’t be difficult for you to find a good spot for it in your home gym. Moreover, the ProForm 495 CSE is foldable and it features multiple handles, so you’ll be able to fold it, lift it up, and store it very easily. If you don’t have a home gym or if your space is truly limited, you can store this ProForm elliptical trainer whenever you’re not using it. It’s a fantastic feature that not many ellipticals in this price range offer.
The ProForm 495 CSE also features transport wheels, so it will be easy to move around until you find the right spot for it. Overall, no other machines will allow you to save as much space as this one. The ceiling height requirement for the ProForm 495 CSE is 8 to 9 feet so you can be comfortable. Also, the ProForm 495 CSE requires an AC adapter to function, which is included with your purchase.
ProForm 495 CSE Elliptical Monitor
Budget ellipticals often have to sacrifice the quality of some features and it’s often the monitor that suffers. However, this ProForm elliptical trainer does a decent job for the price. The ProForm 495 CSE features a circular watts display and LED screen that will show you all the important stats, including distance, time, calories burned, and heart rate. Speaking of heart rate, the ProForm 495 CSE offers heart rate monitoring in the form of grip pulse sensors, which are located in the fixed handlebars.
The ProForm 495 CSE comes with 18 workout programs that will help you burn calories and work on your endurance. Each of the workout programs has a preset duration and it will automatically adjust the resistance. There are 18 resistance levels on the ProForm 495 CSE and it’s important to note that it has an 18-pound flywheel, which means it won’t provide as big a challenge as other ellipticals with a heavier flywheel. However, since this is for beginners and intermediate level trainees, the challenge will be good enough.
Another great thing about the ProForm 495 CSE is that it’s Bluetooth-enabled, which is not super common at this price range, and it’s also iFit-enabled. You’ll need a subscription, but it can be worth it when you consider you’ll gain access to unlimited workouts that are generated with Google Maps so you can immerse yourself in predetermined or personalized routes. An iFit subscription will also buy you access to a workout calendar, stats tracking, and many other useful tools.
ProForm 495 CSE Stride and Incline
When it comes to elliptical trainers, stride and incline are two of the most important features to pay attention to. Why? Because they will determine how comfortable you are while working out, and they also add to the challenge. The ProForm 495 CSE has an 18-inch stride length, which is consistent throughout the Smart Strider series. This 18-inch stride is great for people with shorter gaits, but it’s not comfortable for taller people because it shortens their stride. So, if you’re on the taller side, this may not be the right elliptical for you. Luckily, ProForm has many elliptical options that will fit tall users.
The ProForm 495 CSE stride is fixed, which means it can’t be adjusted. It will fit users of 5 to 6.3 feet, but if you’re taller than that, this elliptical won’t allow you to stretch your strides. It’s important to note that not all exercises require users to have a full stride motion and not all users mind taking shorter strides. If that’s the case for you, the ProForm 495 CSE will still provide a good workout even if you’re tall.
Now, when it comes to incline, the ProForm 495 CSE doesn’t have one. What that means is that you won’t be able to mimic different outdoor exercises such as hiking. You won’t be able to target your leg muscles in different ways, so that’s something to keep in mind. If it’s not a deal-breaker for you and you’re not looking to challenge your leg muscles in different ways, then you won’t miss the incline ramp. Another thing to note is the light flywheel, which we’ve already mentioned. It’s only 13 pounds, so it won’t provide a super smooth workout, especially not if you like to go faster and harder. Something to keep in mind!
ProForm 495 CSE Handlebar and Pedals
The handlebars and pedals are also super important features because they can make or break your experience with an elliptical. The ProForm 495 CSE features fixed and mobile handlebars. The fixed handlebars feature the pulse sensors so you can track your heart rate during your workouts. They also allow you to rest your arms if you don’t want to engage them. On the other hand, the mobile handlebars will allow you to enjoy a full-body workout by helping you engage your upper-body muscles.
The mobile handlebars on the ProForm 495 CSE will add movement and resistance to your workout and allow you to target your arms, shoulders, back, and core with every step you make. The handlebars are soft grip and very comfortable! These handlebars are cushioned and ergonomically designed to fit users with short and long arms. The ProForm 495 CSE mobile handlebars don’t feature built-in controls, so all the controls are on the console.
The ProForm 495 CSE also features great pedals, which are oversized and comfortable. They’re not cushioned, though, so they lack the extra comfort, which is something you will miss if you tend to work out for long periods. Even so, the pedals are quite decent and comfortable, so you will be fine if you don’t extend your workouts for too long. After all, this is an entry-level machine!
ProForm 495 CSE Accessories and Assembly
You’ll be happy to know that the ProForm 495 CSE features great accessories to help you be more comfortable and enjoy your workouts a lot more. For one, the ProForm 495 CSE features an integrated tablet holder so you can enjoy your entertainment. It’s placed above the display, so you can easily see the screen. It also comes with a water bottle holder that will allow you to stay hydrated.
The ProForm 495 CSE also comes with dual 2-inch speakers that are compatible with iPod and other MP3 players. You will be able to play your favorite music, which will help you stay motivated and pumped during your workouts. The only thing that the ProForm 495 CSE is missing is a cooling fan, but that just means you’ll be able to sweat a bit more and burn more calories.
When it comes to assembly, the ProForm 495 CSE assembly process couldn’t be easier. This elliptical trainer comes almost fully assembled right out of the box. It will only take you a few minutes to attach the front and rear stabilizers and the tablet holder to the frame. The instructions are easy to follow and you won’t have any issues. You may need help to get the machine out of the box and lift it when necessary because it’s 183 pounds, but other than that you’ll be able to do it on your own.
ProForm 495 CSE Warranty, Price, and Shipping
The ProForm 495 CSE offers a decent warranty, though it could be better. They provide lifetime coverage for the frame, which is great. But coverage for parts and labor is only 1 year, which is quite standard at this price range. The lifetime warranty for the frame is definitely not usual for this price range, so that’s a good plus. They also have a 30-day money-back guarantee.
If you ever need to contact customer services, you can head to the ProForm website and go to their contact page so you can reach out to the relevant department. They will answer any questions and help you with any issues you may have, so don’t hesitate to reach out whenever you need to.
The ProForm 495 CSE can be found on the ProForm website and it’s $999. They also offer free shipping, which is always great. Sometimes ProForm ellipticals go on sale, so you should keep an eye on that. Even without a discount, the ProForm 495 CSE is a great budget option and entry-level users will be very pleased with it.
ProForm 495 CSE Cross Trainer Pros:
- Rear-drive, Compact and foldable.
- Transport wheels and Tablet holder.
- 18 workout programs and Steel frame.
- 18 resistance levels
- User weight capacity of 275 pounds.
- Low-impact exercise for body toning.
- Grip heart rate sensors.
- Water bottle holder and Audio speakers.
- Lifetime warranty for the frame.
- Bluetooth-enabled and iFit-enabled.
- It’s almost fully assembled out of the box.
ProForm 495 CSE Cross Trainer Cons:
- Light flywheel and No cooling fan.
- No incline and stride length is 18″ fixed.
- No wireless heart rate monitoring.
- No cushion on the pedals.
- Short warranty for parts and labor.
- No built-in controls on handlebars.
Final Verdict
The ProForm 495 CSE is an amazing entry-level elliptical trainer that’s available at an affordable price. It’s packed with performance features that are perfect for beginners and intermediate level trainees, and it features accessories that will make your experience better. You get a lot of value for the price, so it’s definitely 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.
