Schwinn Fitness Elliptical Machines Compared
In 2020, the new normal in this world was established, at least for the foreseeable future. As we spend more time inside of our homes during various stages of quarantine, people have taken to exercising and maintaining their fitness levels there too. Gyms and fitness clubs have fallen out of favor as people exercise safer hygiene and health protocols, and as a result, home fitness equipment demand has surged to all-time highs. Schwinn is a name that garners respect in the home fitness machine industry and one that comes with a long history of customer satisfaction through highly-rated, high-quality exercise machines. Personal ellipticals are some of the more popular machines as users can achieve a full-body workout with minimal time and effort. This article will review Schwinn’s home elliptical models and help you decide which one is right for you.
Schwinn has four different models of home elliptical machines that are available to consumers: the Schwinn A40, the Schwinn 411, the Schwinn 430, and the top of the line Schwinn 470. Every model comes with a unique and innovative space-saving design that has become a trademark of these Schwinn elliptical machines. This makes them suitable for use even in small apartments or basement rooms. As expected, the technology and features become more advanced as you move higher up the line, so finding the right combination of price and functionality is crucial in determining which machine you ultimately decide on.
We will review the main differences between the Schwinn home elliptical models, including the technical specifications, the monitor, the stride and incline, the handlebars and pedals, the accessories and assembly, and finally, the warranty, shipping, and prices. So let’s get to it and decide which Schwinn home elliptical machine meets your fitness needs!
| Review | Image | Verdict | Price | Capacity | Display | Resistance | Stride | Incline | Programs | Profiles | Bluetooth | HRM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schwinn 470 |  | Best Value | Check on Amazon | 300 Lbs | DualTrack LCD W/ Backlit | 25 Levels | 20" Fixed | Powered 0-10° | 29 Built-in Workouts | 4 | Yes | Wireless & Contact |
| Schwinn 430 |  | Great Value | Check on Amazon | 300 Lbs | DualTrack LCD W/O Backlit | 20 Levels | 20" Fixed | Manual 0-10° | 22 Built-in Workouts | 2 | Yes | Contact |
| Schwinn 411 |  | Great Value | Check on Amazon | 300 Lbs | SingleTrack W/O Backlit | 16 Levels | 18" Fixed | None | 13 Built-in Workouts | 1 | Yes | Wireless & Contact |
| Schwinn A40 |  | Great Value | Check on Amazon | 275 Lbs | SingleTrack W/O Backlit | 8 Levels | 17.5" Fixed | None | 7 Built-in Workouts | 1 | No | Contact |
Schwinn Fitness Elliptical Overview
Technical Specifications
The technical specifications for each Schwinn home elliptical model are fairly similar across the board, which shows just how high quality of a machine you are getting. The physical footprint of each machine ranges from 53.8” long for the Schwinn 411 to 70.1” for the larger Schwinn 430 and Schwinn 470 models. As far as home elliptical machines go, the Schwinn line is actually very compact and home-friendly as the lightest machine, the Schwinn A40 weighs in at only 90 lbs, while the top of line Schwinn 470 weighs in at only 164 lbs. The smaller size of Schwinns’ home elliptical machines makes them an attractive option if you are limited for space, and makes them easy to move around your house as well.
The Schwinn home elliptical machines are truly designed for users of all shapes, sizes, and fitness levels, as the manufacturer’s suggested weight capacity is 275 lbs for the smallest Schwinn A40 machine and 300 lbs for each of the three larger models. While on the entry-level Schwinn A40 and even the Schwinn 411 models the shorter length of stride combined with the weight capacity may make it difficult for some taller users to feel as comfortable as they would like.
The resistance levels are one feature that do vary between each model and as can be expected, the higher up the line you go, the more levels of resistance that are available. The entry-level Schwinn A40 provides eight levels of resistance while the top of the line Schwinn 470 provides users with an impressive twenty-five levels of magnetic resistance. While eight is quite low for the industry standard, even on entry-level machines, the twenty-five that you get on the Schwinn 470 makes it an excellent value compared to other top of the line machines.
| Model | Image | Capacity | Weight | Dimensions | Resistance | Wheels | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine | | 300 Lbs | 164 Lbs | 70"L X 28"W X 63"H | 20-Level Electronic Magnetic | No | Compatible with Multiple Apps |
| Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine | | 300 Lbs | 164 Lbs | 70"L X 28"W X 63"H | 20-Level Electronic Magnetic | No | Compatible with Multiple Apps |
| Schwinn 411 Elliptical Machine | | 300 Lbs | 100 lbs | 53"L X 24"W X 62"H | 16-Level Electronic Magnetic | Yes | Compatible with Multiple Apps |
| Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine | | 275 Lbs | 100 lbs | 53"L X 24"W X 62"H | 8-Level Electronic Magnetic | Yes | None |
Schwinn Ellipticals Monitor
Unlike some other home elliptical machines, the monitor and console are not the focal point of Schwinn’s models. While other lines boast features like touch screen capabilities or the ability to watch videos or TV, the Schwinn home elliptical line provides a fairly standard monitor throughout all four of its models. The entry-level Schwinn A40 comes with a basic, non-backlit LCD screen that provides users with the basic reads like time, distance, and calories spent.
The Schwinn 411 does provide a step up to users with a 5.5” high-contrast LCD screen but provides the same basic readouts that the Schwinn A40 does. While the price difference is not much, some users may be disappointed with the minimal screen enhancement that comes with the higher price tag of the Schwinn 411. The latest iteration of the Schwinn 411 does come with Bluetooth connectivity that allows users to incorporate Schwinn’s Explore the World app on their connected devices.
The Schwinn 430 and Schwinn 470 represent a more top of the line feel with the patented DualTrack 2 blue backlit LCD system. Although this does give user a clearer visual screen and an upgrade to fourteen readouts, a lack of any touch screen functionality or video integration can only be seen as a flaw in today’s environment of connected and interactive home fitness machines.
| Model | Image | Console | Bluetooth | Readouts | Presets | Speakers | Fan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine | | DualTrack 2 With Blue Backlit | Yes | 14 | 29 | Yes | Yes |
| Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine | | DualTrack 2 Without Backlit | Yes | 14 | 22 | Yes | Yes |
| Schwinn 411 Elliptical Machine | | SingleTrack Without Backlit | Yes | 6 | 13 | No | No |
| Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine | | SingleTrack Without Backlit | No | 6 | 7 | No | No |
Schwinn Strides and Inclines
Two of the more important features when selecting which home elliptical machine is right for you, the stride is the distance between the pedals when you step, so you can also think of this as a step length. For Schwinn’s entry-level models, this is one of the main issues that plague the customers reviews for the Schwinn A40 and the Schwinn 411 as well. The Schwinn A40 has a 17.5” fixed stride and the 411 has an 18” fixed stride which are fine for most people, but taller users may feel this length to be slightly too small. Both of these machines lack any sort of incline as well, which does mean that workouts can get a tad repetitive and without challenge.
The Schwinn 430 jumps up to a more reasonable 20” stride length which is closer to the industry standard length than the entry level models. The 430 also comes with a ten degree manual ramp range with six different positions adding some variety and challenge to your workouts. If you are an experienced elliptical user, you may need to start with the Schwinn 430 and then look at the 470 as well to ensure you have that incline function for your workouts.
Finally, the Schwinn 470 also comes equipped with the 20” stride length but the difference between the 430 and the 470 is the ten-degree motorized ramp range with quick keys that come on the top of the line model. This means that you can just press a button and change the incline on the fly, giving you near unlimited combinations of workouts at your disposal. Each of the Schwinn home elliptical machines comes with its patented Precision Path Foot Motion Technology which allows for smooth and natural stepping motion, without any stress on your knee or ankle joints as you workout.
| Model | Image | Stride | Incline | Plugin | Foldable | Pedals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine | | 20" Fixed | 10° Motorized with quick keys | Standard Power Outlet | No | Large Cushioned Non-Slip |
| Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine | | 20" Fixed | 10° Manual with six positions | Standard Power Outlet | No | Large Cushioned Non-Slip |
| Schwinn 411 Elliptical Machine | | 18" Fixed | Not Adjustable | Standard Power Outlet | No | No-Slip Basic |
| Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine | | 17.5" Fixed | Not Adjustable | Standard Power Outlet | No | No-Slip Basic |
Warranty, Price, and Shipping
Surprisingly from a reputable and well-known company like Schwinn, the warranty it provides its customers for its home elliptical machines is nothing special. The entry-level Schwinn A40 gets the shortest amount of time under warranty as the frame only comes with a 3-year warranty compared to 10 years for the other models. The A40 also only comes with a 1-year parts guarantee as well as 60-days labor, while every other model receives a 2-year parts warranty and 90-days labor. Every model comes with a 1-year electrical component warranty though.
Schwinn will ship all of its home elliptical machines to anywhere within the continental United States via UPS or FedEx ground, but they will not deliver to P.O. boxes. Shipping costs and taxes differ by state but will be clearly marked and explained when you checkout on the Schwinn website. Orders are typically processed within 3-5 business days. Note that you may also find the Schwinn home elliptical machines on Amazon or other fitness websites, but the price is not guaranteed to be the same as on the Schwinn website and shipping fees and times may vary depending on the company you purchase from. If you do purchase from Schwinn’s website, the standard shipping price is $99.99.
The pricing is one of Schwinn’s major competitive advantages in this competitive home elliptical machine market. The entry-level Schwinn A40 comes in generally under $500 although it depends where you are looking. The Schwinn 411 comes in under $500 as well and these two entry-level machines provide some of the best price value amongst home elliptical machines. The step up to the Schwinn 430 and Schwinn 470 provide a reasonable price bump from the sub $500 models to $799 for the 430 and $899 for the 470. Again, tremendous value for the quality Schwinn brand, especially compared to other elliptical machines around the industry.
| Model | Image | Price | Shipping | Warranty | Box |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine | | $899.00 | $99.99 | 10-years frame, 2-years parts, 1-year electrical, 90-days labor | 51.3" L x 21.8" W x 34.3" H and weighs 189.2 lbs |
| Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine | | $799.00 | $99.99 | 10-years frame, 2-years parts, 1-year electrical, 90-days labor | 51.3" L x 21.8" W x 34.3" H and weighs 189.2 lbs |
| Schwinn 411 Elliptical Machine | | $499.00 | $99.99 | 10-years frame, 2-years parts, 1-year electrical, 90-days labor | 40" L x 21" W x 30" H and weighs 115 lbs |
| Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine | | $480.00 | $99.99 | 3-years frame, 1-years parts, 1-year electrical, 60-days labor | 40" L x 21" W x 30" H and weighs 114 lbs |
Handlebars and Pedals
The handlebars that come equipped on the Schwinn home elliptical machines are nearly identical across all four models. Schwinn has opted to provide users with different sets of handlebars on each machine, one stationary and one mobile. The stationary handlebars are located directly below the console and give users a nice stable place to hang on to during workouts. These handlebars also house the heart rate monitor that displays your vitals in real time on the console above.
The other set of handlebars on the Schwinn home elliptical machines are mobile and sit vertically so that users can use them in a classic elliptical motion. The curvature of these mobile handlebars are ergonomically designed to provide users with a total arm workout while comfortably hanging on during an intense workout. The handles come with a nice soft and graspable material that provides an adequate grip so that users can feel safe and in control while operating the elliptical machine. None of the Schwinn home elliptical machines come with handlebar controls or buttons.
The pedals are a strong point for the Schwinn home elliptical machines as they are well constructed and come in a large enough size so that users of any size or shape can use them. The pedal itself comes with a raised lip so that even if your shoe slips during a workout, your foot will safely stay within the confines of the pedal. The footplates are all located roughly 17” off the ground and 6” apart from one another which is fairly standard for the home elliptical machine market.
| Model | Image | Multigrips | Controls | Handlebars | Pedals | Q.Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine | | No | No Built-in Controls on the Handles | Moving & Stationary | Comfortable Large-Size | Medium (Okay) |
| Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine | | No | No Built-in Controls on the Handles | Moving & Stationary | Comfortable Large-Size | Medium (Okay) |
| Schwinn 411 Elliptical Machine | | No | No Built-in Controls on the Handles | Moving & Stationary | Medium-Size | Medium (Okay) |
| Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine | | No | No Built-in Controls on the Handles | Moving & Stationary | Medium-Size | Medium (Okay) |
Accessories and Assembly
Accessories are not necessarily Schwinn’s strong suit for its line of home elliptical machines until you get up to the Schwinn 430 or Schwinn 470 models. The entry-level Schwinn A40 is bare-bones as a media shelf for books or personal devices, and a water bottle holder so you can stay hydrated during a workout, are all that really come with the machine. The Schwinn 411 comes with essentially the same features as the A40, but the current model does provide users with Bluetooth connectivity to use the Explore the World App.
The higher end Schwinn 430 and Schwinn 470 models come with features and accessories that we are more accustomed to seeing on the premium home fitness machines. Bluetooth connectivity as well as a USB charging port for your devices, a nice 3-speed fan to keep you cool, a sealed acoustic chamber sound system, as well as multiple user profile capability do give the Schwinn 430 and 470 a more top of the line feel. Note that even the Schwinn 470 lacks any WiFi support or video viewing screen so your entertainment options with the Schwinn home elliptical machines are somewhat limited.
Assembly of the Schwinn home elliptical machines is actually quite simple and straightforward compared to other home fitness machines, but it does depend on who you ask. If you scan websites like Amazon and read the reviews, some users will say it only took them an hour, and some will say it took them several hours with the help of others. Expect the average person to take a little over an hour with the instructions and tools that Schwinn provides you, and there are helpful instructional videos on sites like YouTube as well. While assembly is definitely possible by one person, it always helps to have a second person around when you need to move the Schwinn home elliptical around the house.
| Model | Image | Assembly | Tools | Accessory | Shelf | USB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schwinn 470 Elliptical Machine | | Not Included, Required | Included | Accessory Holder Included | Media Shelf Included | With USB Charging |
| Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine | | Not Included, Required | Included | Accessory Holder Included | Media Shelf Included | With USB Charging |
| Schwinn 411 Elliptical Machine | | Not Included, Required | Included | No Accessory Holder | Media Shelf Included | Without USB Charging |
| Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine | | Not Included, Required | Included | No Accessory Holder | Media Shelf Included | Without USB Charging |
Why are the Schwinn Home Elliptical Machines a good choice for you?
The name Schwinn really does speak for itself here as its home elliptical machine line is highly rated across multiple websites from customers who have bought and use them regularly. Schwinn itself has been in the home fitness machine industry for over one hundred years and is well established as a brand that provides high quality equipment for a reasonable price tag. While you may not get all of the bells and whistles you may get with some of the premium machines that are popular these days, you can rest assured that you will get a dependable elliptical machine that operates smoothly and provides you with everything you need for a home workout.
Each Schwinn home elliptical machine comes with its patented Precision Path Foot Motion Technology that allows for one of the more natural feeling elliptical motions in the market. Combine this with the innovative and ergonomic design of the multiple sets of handlebars Schwinn provides on its machines, and users get an incredibly comfortable and stable workout. The LCD monitor and console are nothing special, especially in today’s age of connected fitness machines, but they do the job and for the price you pay, it is not unreasonable to have limited functionality.
It’s not all positive though, the fixed stride does limit the machines, especially on the entry level models where taller people may find themselves at a disadvantage with the shorter stride lengths. A lack of technological features including no WiFi connectivity as well as no touch screen functionality does set the Schwinn home elliptical machines back compared to other models in the industry.
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.
