6 Best Folding Ellipticals for Small Spaces (Review & Best Picks)
In the past, one major challenge beginners and fitness experts faced was finding an elliptical that offered a full-body workout and fit into small spaces. Let's face it; no one wants a gym machine that will take up a considerable chunk of their living area, especially if they have a housemate.
Thankfully, folding ellipticals came into the fitness market, giving users the flexibility to work out effectively while minimizing workout and storage space. However, with so many folding elliptical brands on the shelves, you will need all the help you can get to have one of the best folding ellipticals for small spaces in your home gym.
I have done all the hard work to bring you the six best folding ellipticals for small spaces on the market. So if you are considering buying a folding elliptical, this article will let you know the best one that fits your needs.
In a hurry?
Check the comparison chart and best pick box below!
Model | Product Weight | Stride Length | Resistance | Weight Capacity | Dimension | Warranty | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E902 Best Budget | 35 lb | 30'' | None | 220 lb | 25''L x 19''W x 57''H | 1-year Frame, 180-days Parts | |
Stamina 40-0069 SpaceMate | 45 lb | n/a | None | 250 lb | 30.25''L x 16.25''W x 54.5''H | 1-year Frame, 90-days Parts | |
Gazelle Edge by Tony Little Best for Beginners | 45 lb | Unlimited | None | 250 lb | 43″L x 29.25″W x 53.75″H | 12-Months Frame and Parts | |
Gazelle Supreme by Tony Little Best Overall | 57.5 lb | Unlimited | None | 300 lb | 44” L x 31.5” W x 55”H | 12-Months Frame and Parts | |
Gazelle Freestyle Glider by Tony Little | 46 lb | Unlimited | None | 300 lb | 44” L x 33.5” W x 53.5”H | 12-Months Frame and Parts | |
KINGC Foldable Elliptical Glider | n/a | 30'' | None | 250 lb | 44-1/2"L x 29"W x 52"H | n/a |
The 3 Best Folding Ellipticals for Small Spaces Quick Overview
Here are our top three folding ellipticals designed for your specific needs!
Overall Rating: 4.2/5
SUMMARY
The top-of-the-line Gazelle model, Gazelle Supreme by Tony Little comes with a high weight capacity of 300 lb, 10 exercise options, and a Soft Glide technology that ensures you can work out without straining or stressing your joints.
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Overall Rating: 4.1/5
SUMMARY
It's not every time you find a high-performing elliptical that's also budget-friendly. It provide a low-impact, complete body workout, toning and tightening your body muscles. Also comes with an abdominal pad that offers support and comfort.
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Overall Rating: 4.4/5
SUMMARY
While it is the most basic of the Gazelle models, it comes with the necessary features. It targets every muscle group in the body and comes with 6 exercise options. It glides smoothly and enables you to change workout intensity with ease.
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Best Folding Ellipticals for Small Spaces Full Review
If you are looking for an elliptical that is efficient, versatile, affordable, and offers low-impact workouts, the Sunny Air Walk Trainer is just the machine for you. This elliptical is excellent for beginners, intermediate and expert users. Regardless of your fitness level, you'll be just fine with this machine.
The Sunny Air Walk Trainer is designed to improve cardiovascular fitness, precisely what its resistance and incline systems do when you work out. With the resistance and incline systems, you get a full-body workout.
For many users, the Sunny Air Walk Trainer is an excellent elliptical worth the money and hype. Add the fact that this machine is super affordable and folds easily to minimize storage space; you have an elliptical trainer that tops the chart.
However, some users didn't like that the machine is designed with a fixed incline. Another thing users complained about was the machine's construction. The machine becomes unstable as you increase speed.
That said, the Sunny Air Walk Trainer is perfect for burning calories, building and toning muscles, and maintaining energy. Unfolded, the Sunny Air Walk Trainer measures 25''L x 19''W x 57''H and weighs 35 lb.
I like that this machine can support users who weigh around 220 lb - quite impressive for a lightweight elliptical like this one. When exercising with the Sunny Air Walk Trainer, you'll need at least 12 inches of extra space; this is a lot less than the working area of most ellipticals.
The Sunny Air Walk Trainer offers a total, low-impact workout, especially perfect for beginners. This doesn't mean users within other fitness levels can't enjoy working out with this machine.
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Takeaway
Overall, I think it's pretty obvious where I stand. With more pros than cons and great value for your money, the Sunny Air Walk Trainer is a must-have. If you're on a tight budget, I highly recommend the Sunny Air Walk Trainer.
I've heard a lot about the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper, so I was quite excited to review this elliptical finally. There's just so much to say about this elliptical that I don't know where to start.
Is it as good as people say? Is it worth your money?
The short, simple answer is YES.
The Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper is a brilliantly designed elliptical that can help you achieve your fitness goals. Whether you want to improve cardiovascular health, lose fat, burn calories, or tone your muscles, the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper is up to the task.
This machine offers a low-impact, full-body workout that minimizes the risk of injuring yourself during exercise. If you are looking for an excellent climber machine, the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper is just what you need.
Like most step climbers, the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper is very easy to operate. All you have to do is step up and down on the footrests while holding the stationary handles on the machine. This ease of use makes it perfect for beginners. The machine features two adjustable resistance arms that control the footrests' tension.
Two adjustable hydraulic-pistons control the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper. These influence the degree of resistance you get while working out.
Most users felt the resistance was smooth and strong. Some even suggested the manufacturers lower the resistance; this machine is just that good.
Thanks to these hydraulic-pistons, the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper is very smooth and quiet during use. You can use this elliptical without distracting others or while watching TV.
Many users were very pleased with this feature because most ellipticals on the market are known for making weird squeaky noises during use. In this aspect, the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper ticks the right box.
The Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper has a variable step height (the maximum step height is 14.0"), which means you can control your step height to suit your preference. This feature is one of the few things why the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper is among the best folding ellipticals for small spaces on the market.
The Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper features a multi-function LCD monitor that tracks calories burned, number of steps taken, time spent, and number of steps per minute. It also comes with padded foam handles for extra comfort.
The machine weighs 45 lb and is made with a heavy-duty steel frame, which enhances its stability and sturdiness. When folded the dimensions are 38.5″ x 16.25″ x 9.5″ (L x W x H), and once assembled, the dimensions are 30.25″ x 16.25″ x 54.5″ (L x W x H). It has a maximum weight capacity of 250 lb, but some users swear this elliptical is so strong it can support users who weigh a little over that.
This elliptical works of users of varying height ranges, but users between 6'1″ – 6'2″ may not find using the Stamina SpaceMate very comfortable.
This elliptical comes with a one year warranty on the frame and a 90-day warranty on its parts. Overall, I think the warranty is one of the most significant issues most users have with the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper.
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Takeaway
The Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper is an excellent elliptical trainer for many reasons, but most especially because it offers users a low-impact workout that lessens injury chances during exercise. Overall, if you are looking for a sturdy elliptical that won't break the bank, you should consider the Stamina SpaceMate Folding Stepper.
You've probably seen several Gazelle infomercials over the years. That tells you how popular Gazelle machines are in the fitness community. So, it would be a crime not to feature the Gazelle Edge in this list.
The Gazelle Edge is a superb foldable glider perfect for aerobic exercise. This elliptical is designed to deliver low-impact motion. Many users report how surprisingly gentle this machine is on the joint and knees. This is probably why it is one of the most sought-after machines on the shelves. The Gazelle Edge is an excellent alternative to cheap ellipticals since it offers users more intense workouts.
By many standards, the Gazelle Edge is an excellent buy, but, of course, it comes with its pitfalls that can turn off potential users. However, most of the reviews about this product are on the positive side, so it speaks a lot about how satisfactory this machine is.
The Gazelle Edge offers users a gentle range of motion for the upper body and lower body, which allows for a full-body workout.
Another thing users commended about this machine is its durability. The Gazelle Edge is made from pretty sturdy and durable materials, which is why it stands out from the competition. However, some users reported their Edge malfunctioning or breaking down after a few months of use (oh - well, it's a cheap machine, so there's that.)
Regardless of where you purchase it, the Gazelle Edge is under $150, so when I say it's cheap, I mean really cheap. The Gazelle Edge offers really low resistance, so users tend to burn calories a lot slower than expected. Overall, this machine folds easily, making it easy to store in small spaces.
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Takeaway
Easy on the joints and offering total body workout, the Gazelle Edge is still one of the best folding ellipticals for small spaces you will find on the market. I highly recommend the Gazelle Edge if are just starting out.
We all know how famous Tony Little's Gazelle line of home fitness equipment is, so it shouldn't be too surprising that the Gazelle Supreme also made it to the list. The Gazelle Supreme is an excellent cross-trainer designed to offer the ultimate low-impact total workout. The machine is well constructed and allows users to perform up to ten exercises within one routine.
The Gazelle Supreme is a manual elliptical trainer that offers low-impact aerobic and resistance training options, thus minimizing the risk of an injury during exercise and giving you a wide range of exercise options to perform.
For a manually operated elliptical, this machine is excellent for improving cardiovascular health, body sculpting, muscle toning, and burning calories. The best part is that it is ideal for anyone regardless of their fitness level. You don't have to be as badass as Tony Little to get the hang of how this machine works.
The Gazelle Supreme comes a dual-pivot system, which allows your legs to move independently, thus guaranteeing a more comprehensive range of motion. This machine also combines power Pistons with hydraulic resistance to give users a more intense workout experience.
This machine features a grip pulse and exercises computer capable of tracking pulse rate, calories burned, distance, speed, and time. Its Soft Glide Technology also makes working out less stressful on the body. The Gazelle Supreme is made of a steel frame and comes with padded handlebars, extra width foot paddles, and a grip pulse monitor that tracks heart rate. This machine weighs quite a lot, so it's a little heavy to fold and store.
In terms of the warranty, the Gazelle Supreme comes with a 1-year warranty on the frame and parts. Unfolded, the machine measures 44” L x 31.5” W x 55”H and weighs 57.5 lb. Overall, the Gazelle Supreme is a brilliantly designed machine and would make an excellent buy.
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Takeaway
The Gazelle Supreme is an excellent substitute for ellipticals and gets the job done. On the downside, many users complain that this machine is quite sturdy but does not offer as much stability as other heavy ellipticals. However, without a doubt, the Gazelle Supreme is an excellent choice for losing weight and burning calories.
The Gazelle Freestyle cross-trainer is a sturdy machine that offers maximum stability during use. The machine has a maximum weight limit of 300 lb., making it one of the very few folding ellipticals that can support larger users.
The Gazelle Freestyle features a greater range of workout alternatives great for muscle toning, improving cardiovascular health, and burning calories. This manual cross trainer is designed to monitor the approximate amount of calories burned during exercise, speed and distance, as well as your heart rate.
As one of the best folding ellipticals for small spaces, the Gazelle Freestyle comes with an in-built pulse monitor for monitoring heart rate, an electronic fitness monitor that shows exercise duration, number of strides per minute, total number of strides, and more.
It also comes with adjustable resistance, dual directional flywheel, and large, non-slip pedals. The Gazelle Freestyle is made of high-quality steel frame construction, which is why this elliptical is very stable. The Gazelle Freestyle is not your regular elliptical, as it features both an elliptical trainer and an upright exercise bike.
The machine is also fitted with an adjustable seat that can be moved in any direction and an exercise glider ideal for improving cardiovascular health.
When assembled, the dimensions are 44” L x 33.5” W x 53.5”H and weighs 46 lb. It comes with a one year warranty on frame and parts.
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Takeaway
There are tons of positive reviews on the Gazelle Freestyle's excellent result for weight loss and because it is quiet and comfortable to use. However, some negative reviews, especially about the machine's stability. Some users say the machine tends to slide across the floor when you pick up the pace. However, the Gazelle Freestyle cross trainer is still one of the best folding ellipticals for small spaces you will find.
#6. KINGC Foldable Elliptical Glider
When it comes to comfort and stability, the KINGC Foldable Elliptical Glider tops the chart. This elliptical offers users extra comfort and stability thanks to its high-density padded handlebars and non-skid foot pedals. This machine is also designed with patented, dual-action split suspension, which gives a broader range of motion when you workout.
You can easily perform a broad range of motion on this machine: from a slow walk to a full run. One unique thing about this elliptical is the ease of use. Most users were very pleased about this. The KINGC Foldable Elliptical Glider features a 5-function exercise computer that helps you track time, distance, speed, calories burnt, and more.
The best part is that this elliptical offers low-impact workouts focusing on stretching and strengthening your muscles. The KINGC Foldable Elliptical Glider can support users up to 250 lb. and is suitable for all fitness levels and ages.
When in use, the KINGC Foldable Eliptical Glider measures 44-1/2"(L) x 29"(W) x 52"(H) and 12"(L) x 29"(W) x 65"(H) when folded.
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Takeaway
The KINGC Foldable Elliptical Glider is relatively new in the market and offers an improvement in some aspects that older ellipticals have failed. From the many positive reviews this elliptical has, there's no doubt that it is an excellent buy. I highly recommend the KINGC Foldable Elliptical Glider if you want a foldable elliptical that is easy-to-use, compact, comfortable, and stable.
Final Thoughts
There you go! The best folding ellipticals for small spaces on the market!
If it's your first time to ellipticals and gliders, you want a machine that's comfortable on your body and joints as well as easy to use. An entry level model, the Gazelle Edge is the beginner's choice in our best folding ellipticals for small spaces list. You'd love that it glides smoothly and isn't hard on joints. Although, its features are pretty basic, the Gazelle Edge provides complete body workout, tightening and toning your muscles and burning calories.
If you want something more high-end, then you should go for our best overall - the Gazelle Supreme by Tony Little. The top-of-the-line Gazelle model, it comes with a Grip pulse technology, has 3 DVDs, accommodates users that weigh up to 300 lb, and offers 10 exercise options.
On a limited budget and don't have much to spend on an elliptical? Going for the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-E902 is a no brainer. One of the bestselling folding ellipticals for small spaces on the market, it gives you similar results as running, walking, skiing, running, and dancing, all in the comfort of your home and without burning a hole in your pocket.
Got any question for us? Let us know in the comment section below!
