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If you’re an apartment dweller, you know that noisy neighbors are the worst.

So when you want to get your workout on, you want a fitness machine that’s quiet and won’t make you that annoying, noisy neighbor.

Enter the elliptical trainer. This machine is popular for home use because it’s easy to use and adaptable for all fitness levels. And if you make the right choice, an elliptical can be super quiet, too!

That’s where I come in. I’ve done the research for you so you can purchase the elliptical that fits you (and your apartment) best.

This guide will give you 5 options for the best quiet ellipticals for apartments, along with some other valuable tips and info.

I’ve got something in here for every budget and every space!

1. Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine

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When you make a big purchase, you want to buy from a trusted name, and Schwinn is typically at the top of that list.

They don’t just make bicycles – Schwinn produces top-quality fitness equipment as well, and they’ve been a well-established brand in the fitness industry for decades.

The Schwinn 430 Elliptical is just one of many quality fitness products from this brand.

With the newest Schwinn 430 model, the company has really stepped up their game! This elliptical received a complete makeover for 2018 with a new sturdier look and great updated features.

This elliptical machine combines high-end technology and functionality – all for a price well below that of other competitors.

Our Favorite Features:

Greatcomputerfeatures. The Schwinn 430 console has a ton of high-tech features that allow you to set up separate user profiles, choose from a variety of pre-programmed workouts (22 programs, to be exact), and use Schwinn Connect to download and track your performance.

Resistance options. This machine boasts 20 resistance levels to choose from, guaranteed to make you sweat no matter your fitness level.

Other Features:

  • Size: 70 x 28 x 63 inches
  • Maximum user weight: 300 lbs
  • Dual display
  • Quiet, digitally-controlled resistance
  • Heartrate sensors on handlebars (option for heart strap monitor but not included)
  • Adjustable incline
  • 20” stride length
  • 3-speed fan
  • Large, articulating pedals
  • USB/MP3 port, speakers, and Bluetooth capabilities
  • Transport wheels
  • 10-year warranty on the frame

Possible Drawbacks:

  • Only 10 degrees of incline (most machines offer around 20 degrees), and incline must be adjusted manually.
  • Some people report an annoying squeaky sound – not what you want in an apartment! But many fixed the problem by simply loosening the screws (just a little!) and using the included lube to reduce friction.
  • Very heavy! Weighing in at 180 pounds, you don’t want to move this machine around very often.

If you’re looking for a quiet, high-tech machine that will have you breaking a sweat without breaking the bank, the Schwinn 430 hits the mark.

With 22 workout programs, you can keep your workouts fresh and new, while all the resistance options will keep it challenging. There’s a lot of value packed into this machine!

2. SOLE Fitness E35 Elliptical Machine

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03/19/2024 07:50 am GMT

The Sole brand is known for its durable fitness equipment and unparalleled customer service.

Its products come with a lifetime warranty, and unlike most competitors, Sole provides in-home service for repairs.

The Sole E35 Elliptical is a solid choice for anyone looking to buy a durable and versatile elliptical machine for their home.

This commercial-grade machine has won numerous “Best Buy” awards from other consumer sites based on its quality, sturdiness, and features. And now the newest model sports Bluetooth connectivity as well.

Our Favorite Features:

Durability. Sole Fitness focuses on commercial-grade products with a high level of durability and quality construction. The SOLE E35 machine is no exception – this is a very sturdy, well-built piece of training equipment, as evidenced by its user weight limit of 375 pounds. And as a bonus, it includes a lifetime warranty.

More incline options. Most elliptical machines offer around 20 degrees of incline, but the SOLE E35 inclines up to 30 degrees – very impressive. This power incline ramps up your workout and targets the lower body like no other!

Wireless Heartrate Monitoring. While this machine offers your standard heartrate sensors on the hand grips, it also offers wireless monitoring – not something you typically see on machines in this price range.

Other Features:

  • Size: 83 x 27 x 58 inches
  • Maximum user weight: 375 lbs
  • Backlit display
  • “Whisper Drive” for very quiet operation
  • 10 programs and up to 2 user profiles
  • Heartrate sensors on handlebars and includes optional chest strap
  • Adjustable resistance
  • Adjustable 20” stride length
  • USB/MP3 port and speakers
  • Bluetooth wireless technology
  • Adjustable, cushioned pedals
  • 6 rubber floor rests for added stability
  • Lifetime warranty on frame

Possible Drawbacks:

  • Users report that assembly can be tricky and time-consuming, so you may want to invest in someone to put it together for you.
  • Only includes 10 built-in programs. Most ellipticals in this price range offer a few more.

If you’re looking for durability combined with a smooth ride that really challenges those lower body muscles, the Sole E35 Elliptical is the machine of your dreams!

This is an elite elliptical trainer that offers a truly challenging workout combined with high-end features and performance. And it will last a lifetime!

3. Schwinn A40 Elliptical Machine

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02/18/2024 01:19 am GMT

Another Schwinn machine makes our list – the Schwinn A40.

This trainer is a good entry level elliptical for those on a budget who are looking for a basic, low impact workout (i.e. casual walking).

As mentioned before, Schwinn is a highly respected brand (manufactured by Nautilus).

So despite the low price, the Schwinn A40 elliptical trainer is relatively well-built and quiet.

Our Favorite Features:

Compact and lightweight. The Schwinn A40 is compact and weighs around 90 pounds, making it easy to move around. For apartment dwellers, the size of this elliptical trainer is a big advantage, as it will fit in almost any room.

Budget friendly. If you don’t want to spend hundreds (or thousands) of dollars on an elliptical trainer for your home, then the Schwinn A40 is a great choice. You get quality, basic features, and a few extras for under $500.

Other Features:

  • Size: 56 x 24 x 65 inches
  • Maximum user weight: 270 lbs
  • LCD display
  • Quiet, smooth operation with magnetic resistance
  • Heartrate sensors on handlebars
  • 17.5” stride length
  • 8 resistance levels
  • 7 pre-programmed workouts
  • Speakers and media tray
  • Transport wheels
  • 2-year warranty on frame

Possible Drawbacks:

  • The stride length is relatively short at just 17.5 inches. Try one out in the store before purchasing.
  • Only comes with a 2-year warranty, which is shorter than average for machines in this price range.
  • While you can get a great light to medium cardio workout out of this Schwinn machine, it’s not the best elliptical for more advanced, high-intensity workouts.

As entry level elliptical trainers go, the Schwinn A40 is great – you get all the basic functionality and performance options you need, plus a few extras that many affordable machines don’t offer.

And with Schwinn, you know you are getting a quality piece of equipment.

4. Nautilus E614 Elliptical Machine

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Nautilus, which also includes brands like Bowflex and Schwinn, is a staple in the exercise and fitness industry.

Known for its innovation in design and features, Nautilus produces high-tech machines that are built to last. Not many brands can compete with Nautilus when it comes to excellence in fitness equipment.

The Nautilus E614 Elliptical machine is a great example of this company’s focus on quality and innovation.

This relatively new model of elliptical is designed to give you a comfortable workout that can be customized for all fitness levels. This, along with a nice package of features, makes for a solid exercise machine.

Our Favorite Features:

The brand. Again, the name Nautilus is synonymous with fitness. You can’t go wrong purchasing a piece of equipment from this company. Not to mention it offers a 10-year warranty on the frame, which is a good indicator of the quality and durability of Nautilus equipment.

The console. This is arguably the best feature on the Nautilus E614. It offers an advanced console with a dual display that allows you to set up different user profiles and offers 22 pre-programmed workouts.

You can download your performance data (using the USB port or Bluetooth connectivity) and transfer to Nautilus Connect or MyFitnessPal.

The console also includes some great accessories (excellent sound system, fan, and tablet shelf).

The look. Maybe not as important as functionality and performance, but it’s worth noting that this is a sleek, modern machine – it just looks great!

Other Features

  • Size: 72 x 27 x 72 inches
  • Maximum user weight: 300 lbs
  • Dual display
  • Quiet, smooth operation
  • Manual adjustable incline
  • 20 levels of resistance
  • 20” stride length
  • 3-speed fan
  • Large, articulating pedals
  • USB/MP3 port, speakers, and Bluetooth capabilities
  • Compatible with Nautilus Connect
  • Transport wheels
  • 10-year warranty on frame

Possible Drawbacks:

  • Incline must be adjusted manually – you’ll have to stop your workout if you want to change up your incline.

Nautilus is a superior manufacturer that consistently puts out quality fitness equipment, and the Nautilus E614 Elliptical is one of their best machines under $1,000.

With this elliptical, you get an impressive combination of entertainment features, versatility, and quality construction.

Anyone can get a great workout on this machine.

5. Sunny SF-E905 Magnetic Elliptical Trainer

When you start looking for an elliptical trainer in the budget category, you’ll discover that there is a lot of junk out there.

Many ellipticals under $200 are poorly made, flimsy, and just won’t last.

But there are some inexpensive ellipticals that do offer value and performance for basic use.

The Sunny SF-E905 is one of these trainers. As most entry level machines go, this elliptical is best for light training – you won’t get a high-intensity aerobic workout out of this one.

But its super small size makes it ideal for apartment use, and it’s also very quiet.

Our Favorite Features:

Compact size. This is one of the most compact ellipticals you can buy. With such an ultra-small footprint, you can put this trainer anywhere! Plus, it only weighs 68 pounds so moving it around is a breeze.

Very affordable. If you’re on a tight budget, go for this Sunny elliptical. It’s a fraction of the price of other trainers, while still offering a decent workout.

Other Features:

  • Size: 28 x 17 x 57 inches
  • Maximum user weight: 220 lbs
  • Digital monitor display tracks heartrate, time, speed, distance, and calories
  • 8 resistance levels
  • Quiet, smooth operation with magnetic resistance
  • Heartrate sensors on handlebars
  • Large, anti-slip pedals
  • Bidirectional pedal motion
  • Transfer wheels
  • No warranty

Possible Drawbacks:

  • No workout programs. Even at this price point, some competitors offer at least a few pre-programmed workouts.
  • Relatively short stride length (11 inches). This is another trainer you will want to try out at the store before purchasing.
  • Best for only beginners or light cardio training. The SF-E905 just isn’t sturdy enough for higher intensity workouts.

Hands down, the best part about the Sunny Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is its price-to-quality ratio.

If you’re short on both space and money, the SF-E905 is a decent elliptical trainer to get in a light cardio workout at home.

What Are the Benefits of an Elliptical?

Before we get started, you may be wondering why choose an elliptical machine in the first place? Well, if you’re looking for a full-body workout at home, it’s a “one and done” piece of fitness equipment. And it’s easy on your joints, too.

Here’s a rundown of all the health and fitness benefits you can get out of training on an elliptical.

Fitness for anyone.

No matter your age or fitness level, an elliptical will give you a great, sweaty workout. Unlike running, an elliptical is very low-impact, taking all the strain off your knees and other joints. It can also help improve your balance and mobility if you’re recovering from an injury.

Easy to use. 

Even if you are a newbie to the workout scene, you can quickly figure out how to work an elliptical – just get on and start moving! No intimidation here.

Full-body workout. 

Ellipticals get your legs burning – and your arms too! You benefit from a total body (legs, chest, shoulders, back, and arms) workout from an elliptical machine.

Give your heart a workout, too. 

An intense workout on an elliptical will get your heart pumping and increase the aerobic capacity of the body. What does that mean? A stronger heart and lungs for better endurance and overall physical health.

Torch more calories. 

Studies show that you can burn 400 calories in just 30 minutes on an elliptical machine. This makes an elliptical workout an appealing option if you’re looking to lose weight.

Workout at home. 

An elliptical is a one and done piece of equipment – ideal for use in a home or apartment!

They’re relatively quiet, and many offer compact features or a fold-up design, making them suitable for smaller spaces.

Plus, maintenance of the machine itself is relatively cheap and easy.

There are some disadvantages to an elliptical as well. For example, it’s easier to slack off when working out on an elliptical because you control how fast your arms and legs are moving.

Conversely, an exercise machine like a treadmill keeps a steady pace – but running on a treadmill in your apartment may cause all-out battle with your downstairs neighbor!

What Muscles Does an Elliptical Work?

Remember that full-body workout I mentioned earlier? Let’s break down all the muscles worked during a session on an elliptical machine and figure out exactly how and where you’ll feel the burn.

The Lower Body

Hamstrings

  • The back of your thighs
  • Involved in leg flexion (bending your leg)
  • Targeted by high-incline or reverse mode

Quads

  • The front of your thighs
  • Involved in leg extension (straightening your leg)
  • Emphasized less with elliptical training

Glutes

  • Your butt!
  • Involved in hip extension
  • Heavily emphasized with elliptical training, especially with high-incline

Calves

  • Your lower leg
  • Targeted by high-incline

The Upper Body

Biceps

  • The front of your upper arm
  • Involved in elbow flexion (bending your arm)
  • Targeted in reverse mode as a “pulling” muscle

Rhomboids 

  • Your upper back
  • Involved in pulling shoulder blades together
  • Targeted in reverse mode as a “pulling” muscle

Triceps

  • The back of your upper arm
  • Involved in elbow extension (straightening your arm)
  • Targeted in standard mode as a “pushing” muscle

Pectorals

  • Your chest
  • Targeted in standard mode as a “pushing” muscle

The Core

  • Involved in balance
  • Targeted if you go hands free during your workout

The Heart

  • Don’t forget this muscle!
  • Targeted in any aerobic exercise

What Makes an Elliptical Good for Apartment Use?

So how do you determine which elliptical is right for your apartment? Depending on your living situation, there may be any number of answers to that question, but the following factors will likely apply to everyone.

Is the elliptical quiet? 

Let’s start with the most obvious question – will this elliptical machine be too noisy for apartment living? Remember, you’re not trying to start a war with the neighbors. This is such an important thing to consider, I made it the focus of this entire article. I want to help you find the best QUIET elliptical for your apartment – your neighbors will thank me!

Will the elliptical fit in my space?

Another big deciding factor is size. Ellipticals can take up a lot of space – and that’s something you may not have a lot of! If you’re short on space, look for a compact design or space-saving features (i.e. a fold up machine).

Also, don’t forget about height. Make sure you (or the tallest person that will be using the elliptical) will have plenty of clearance when working out.

Can I easily move the elliptical?

Some elliptical trainers are heavy – like, really heavy. .

If you move often, or if you want to store your elliptical in another room, consider choosing a lightweight trainer.

Also, while most ellipticals will have transport wheels, it doesn’t hurt to double check before purchasing.

Ok, now you know all the benefits of using an elliptical and what to look for when choosing the best elliptical for your apartment.

So let’s get into the good stuff and do some shopping! Below, you’ll find full reviews on our picks for the best quiet ellipticals for apartments.

I’ve also provided Amazon links for each machine in case you find one you just can’t live without.

Final Thoughts

There are a ton of ellipticals on the market but remember that not all ellipticals are created equal – especially when it comes to a quiet ride.

If you live in a small apartment with paper-thin walls, use these reviews to get exactly what you want out of  a new elliptical.

If you’re looking for other quiet exercise equipment ideas for your apartment, check out our article HERE. It also includes a few great tips on how to reduce exercise noise from your machine.

Do you have an awesomely quiet elliptical in your apartment? Tell us about it below!