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The best cross trainers and ellipticals for effective full-body workouts at home, tested
Starting from under £200
Tested by Kim HawleyHealth and Fitness Tester
Investing in the best home workout equipment can revolutionise your fitness routine. You don’t need to schlep to the gym after work or worry about the unpredictable British weather – you can simply roll out of bed and squeeze in 20 minutes before getting on with your day.
If you want a full body workout, we recommend considering one of our experts' best cross trainers. This underrated piece of kit provides an effective, full-body workout that’s low impact and not too taxing on your joints.
“The cross trainer allows you to work the upper and lower body simultaneously,” says Anne Chinoy, personal trainer, Athletics England qualified running coach and Active IQ ambassador. “It has two foot plates and two handlebars, which you push and pull as your legs move back and forth, delivering a full-body cardio workout.”
The best cross trainers for 2025
To help you find your new at-home fitness buddy, our Good Housekeeping Institute fitness pros put a range of designs through their paces in our state-of-the-art gym. They donned their trainers and used them for a range of workouts, judging set-up, design, ease of use and performance. You'll find a full breakdown of our rigorous testing below.
And if our tried and tested options are out of your price range, don't panic, as our editors have also highlighted some of their favourite budget-friendly models in our editors' picks section, starting from under £200.
Pros
- Adjustable features handy for whole family use
- Quiet machine
- Transport wheels for portability
Cons
- Handlebars awkward to reach for shorter people
Score: 95/100
JTX has a track record for building serious gym equipment, and this cross trainer didn't disappoint. It offers 16 levels of resistance, 18 workout programmes and an adjustable incline, so you can get in a solid workout whether you’re a total newbie or a seasoned athlete.
The robust design was a big hit with our experts, who said it felt extremely stable at all levels and speeds. They also praised its adjustable features (handle height, stride length and footplate position), which make it a great all-rounder for the whole family to use.
The computer is quite basic, but it’s a doddle to use and clearly displays all that data you need to keep tabs on your progress. On top of all that, the machine is surprisingly quiet and easy to store away post-workout thanks to the nifty transport wheels.
There’s also Bluetooth connectivity and a tablet holder, so you can connect to your favourite apps or just watch TV while you sweat. It lost some points for inaccurate heart rate data and our petite testers found the vertical handlebars a bit awkward to reach, but overall, it’s an impressive bit of kit and, as you can see from our scoring, a standout performer on test.
Pros
- Fuss-free set-up process
- Great for all levels and experiences
- Compact, foldable design
Cons
- Expensive
- Adjusting the resistance is a manual process
Score: 90/100
One of the best things about this premium Technogym model is that you don’t have to faff around with screws and bolts – installation is included with your purchase. The team that delivers your new cross trainer also provides a tutorial and will help you get set up on the app, so you can start working out straight away. The design is also compact and foldable, making it a smart choice if you’re short on space.
Our tester found it a pleasure to use, praising the simple display for monitoring your progress and the extensive Technogym app, which gives you access to a variety of set workouts to help you reach your goals. They also rated the mix of handlebars – there are two moving ones to target the arms and a central handle for focusing on the lower body – and the conveniently placed water bottle holder for sipping when things get sweaty. With 25 levels of resistance to play with, there’s something to suit all experience levels, too.
Unlike some of the other ellipticals we've tested, you can’t change the resistance at the touch of a button – you have to manually push the lever to reach your desired setting. Overall, though, it’s a top-spec piece of kit and, as you can see from our score, a standout performer on test.
Pros
- Robust, commercial grade design
- Smooth, quiet performance
- Pre-set programmes and entertainment options available
Cons
- Large and heavy
- Display could be brighter and more responsive
Score: 79/100
Looking for a gym-quality experience at home? This semi-commercial grade machine boasts a whopping 32 levels of electromagnetic resistance and 20 incline levels, so you can keep challenging yourself as you get fitter. It has a 17-inch touchscreen console, which connects to workout apps like Kinomap as well as entertainment platforms like Netflix, YouTube and Spotify, so you can listen to your favourite music or just catch up on TV while you exercise. There's also a range of workout programmes to keep you motivated, from intervals to scenic sessions in picturesque forests.
Our expert said the set-up process was straightforward (it does require two people due to the heavy build) and they praised the robust design, which has two sets or ergonomic handlebars, wide footplates and a long stride length to suit most bodies. It provided an extremely smooth and stable ride, and there are built-in heart rate monitors plus the option to connect your own device.
The buttons could have been a bit more responsive – they required a double press at times – and our tester had some issues with changing the volume during workouts. These are minor quibbles for another otherwise impressive piece of kit, though.
Pros
- Compact design good for small spaces
- Sturdy, well-made product
- Offers a comprehensive workout
Cons
- Set-up instructions could have been clearer
- Requires two people to fold
Score: 78/100
If you’re short on space and after something that won’t take over your entire home gym/corner of your living room, this JTX pick, which can be partially folded, is a good shout. It also features built-in wheels, so you can cart it around the house. Just note – folding it away and transporting it is probably a two-person job.
Our expert found the set-up instructions and diagrams a little confusing to follow but, once built, the design felt robust, and the machine was a pleasure to use. Though there are no pre-set sessions, you can connect to the Kinomap training app and the Pace-F6 provides 15 levels of resistance. According to our tester, even the lower levels provide a challenging workout, so you’re sure to see improvements to your fitness after consistent use. It may not be the right choice if you’re a total beginner, though.
The console is a good size, with all the post-workout stats you need (time, speed, RPM and distance and heart rate) to track your progress. What’s more, it’s self-powered so you can train anywhere in the house, without an unsightly extension cable running across the room.
The 10kg flywheel offer a smooth elliptical experience and the 18-inch stride length should accommodate most heights and abilities, however our petite tester found they had to stretch across when manoeuvring the handles. There is a water bottle holder, but it’s positioned below the gear controls which means there’s only room for a small one.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Compact design ideal for small spaces
- Quick to set up and easy to use
Cons
- Not suitable for those over 5"9
Score: 71/100
JTX is a market leader for a reason (hence why we have so many on our list!). This model is a little cheaper, but still offers an impressive range of features including 16 levels of resistance, 18 built-in workout programmes and Bluetooth connectivity, so you can connect to your training apps like Kinomap for a more interactive experience.
Our pro was impressed with how easy the machine was to set up. The instructions were clear, the process wasn’t fiddly, and it was ready to use in a matter of minutes. It’s also an excellent choice if you don’t have heaps of space – the machine is compact, so you can tuck it away in the corner without attracting unwanted attention.
Once up and running, it’s intuitive to use, with a clear, computer console that reveals all your in- and post-workout data, including distance, time, speed and pulse rate. It's also extremely quiet, so you don't have to worry about disturbing the rest of the family during your early morning workouts.
According to JTX, the max height is 5’9, so look to one of our other options if you’re on the taller side.
Editors’ top picks
Don’t fancy splashing out on a top-spec cross trainer? This no-frills option from Neezee is a good choice. Not just a cross trainer, this clever piece of kit doubles up as an exercise bike, so you can enjoy a spot of at-home spinning as well.
The padded seat is comfortable and fully adjustable, the well-placed adjustment knob allows you to tinker with the resistance level and there are built-in heart rate sensors and a neat LCD screen to help you keep track of your progress.
As a bonus, this Neezee option comes with wheels, allowing you to move it around the house easily or stash it in the garage when you need the spare bedroom back.
This simple Dripex design is a good buy if you're on a budget. It has a 6kg flywheel for smooth movements and offers levels of magnetic resistance to suit all members of the family. It also claims to be whisper-quiet, so you can work out without disturbing those around you.
It has a classic LDC monitor so you can keep an eye on your progress, built-in heart rate sensors on the handlebars and an anti-slip surface so you can focus on your session in peace.
If you don't want the hassle of having to put the machine together yourself, you can pay extra for assembly.
Unlike most cross trainers, which need to be set up near a plug socket, this Domyos machine is self-powered, so you can exercise in your kitchen, garage or even in the garden on a sunny day. It also won’t guzzle lots of energy and there won't be any trailing wires making a mess. Hurrah!
It offers a wide range of resistance levels (15 to be exact), 24 pre-set programmes for all abilities, plus the option to sync up with your favourite fitness app via the smart console. Here, you can also review your distance, speed, calories heart rate and cadence.
The 9kg flywheel makes for a smooth, quiet riding experience, the petite machine should be easy enough to move around and there’s a safety mechanism for children. For peace of mind when investing, it comes with a two-year warranty.
Another two-in-one cross trainer and exercise bike combo, this sleek Opti elliptical is a top choice if you're on a budget or you don’t have space for both pieces of kit in your home.
The fuss-free machine has everything you need to work up a sweat. The seat and handlebars are adjustable to suit all heights and sizes, there’s a small screen for viewing your data, plus a simple dial to increase the tension and wheels for easy transportation.
Granted, it’s not the sturdiest machine on the market, but at this price, it’s hard to complain. It also comes with a one-year warranty.
How we test cross trainers
Our Good Housekeeping Institute experts trialled the top cross trainers on the market, judging them on clarity of instructions, ease of use, design and, most importantly, performance.
They considered how easy the machines were to set up and whether they took up significant floor space. Over a range of workouts, they considered how smooth and stable they were, and whether adjusting the resistance was a faff-free process.
Overall scores were awarded, with only the ellipticals that met our exacting standards receiving the GHI Approved seal of approval.
The remaining products have been hand-picked by our fitness editors, who have all used workout machines extensively.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute
We've been testing products at the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 100 years. In that time, we've learnt a lot about what makes a great piece of exercise equipment for your home. We've also developed rigorous protocols to ensure everything we recommend to you will live up to its claims.
Kim Hawley, our senior sleep and wellness tester, and Priyankaa Joshi, our sleep and wellness editor, have also reviewed and written about hundreds of products, so they know exactly what they're look for, whether it's the best greens powders, the best walking poles or the best yoga mats.
Kim is a level 4 qualified personal trainer with over 20 years' experience working in leading health clubs across the UK. Priyankaa is an avid gym-goer and runner, and is currently undertaking her level 2 personal training qualification.
What's the difference between a cross trainer and an elliptical?
According to Chinoy, the terms ‘cross trainer’ and ‘elliptical’ are often used interchangeably, but the cross trainer is a particular type of elliptical machine.
“While standard elliptical machines have fixed arms and only target the lower body, the cross trainer stands out for its moveable handles,” she says.
Are cross trainers worth it?
That’s a resounding yes. According to Chinoy, it's one of the most versatile machines out there. Here, she breaks down some of the main benefits.
Low impact: Unlike running on a treadmill, a cross trainer doesn’t tax your joints, as your feet stay in contact with the plates at all times. So, you can work on your cardiovascular fitness, without putting your muscles and joints under stress. There’s also less risk of injury and it’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Cardiovascular benefits: Despite the reduced load, don’t be deceived – the cross trainer still offers an effective cardiovascular workout. “You can still achieve all the benefits of running, such as increased lung capacity, heart strength, reduced blood pressure and weight loss,” points out Chinoy.
Versatile: The cross trainer allows you to work out at the intensity that’s right for you. You can opt for an easy, continuous pace to develop your aerobic capacity, or try challenging interval sessions that will really boost your fitness.
Unobtrusive: The cross trainer is one of the quietest bits of kit available and it generally has a smaller footprint than a treadmill or rowing machine, making it a good choice if you haven’t got your own dedicated home gym.
What is the correct way to use a cross trainer?
It’s important that you maintain the correct form for safety and to get the most out of your workout. Here are Chinoy’s top tips.
- Stand tall (imagine a piece of string pulling you up from the crown of your head towards the ceiling) and look out in front of you.
- Keep your shoulders relaxed and ensure your feet stay in contact with the plate at all times.
- Try to avoid lifting your heels as you pedal. Keep your knees and elbows relaxed and engage your core – thinking about pulling the belly button in towards the spine can help with this.
- If you find your posture slackens, do a full body scan from head to toe every five minutes to check to your form. You can then reset your body position as needed.
The verdict on cross trainers
Our winner, the JTX Tri-Fit 2.0 Cross Trainer is an excellent all-rounder for whole family use. It's sturdy, quiet and provides an effective workout, all for under £800.
Though pricey, the Technogym Elliptical foldable cross trainer is easy to set up, a dream to use and compact enough to store away neatly. It's a top-quality piece of kit the whole family can use and will be with you for years to come.
Looking for a more budget-friendly model? The JTX Strider-X8 comes in at under £500 and is brimming with impressive features.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Kim Hawley is our health and fitness product tester. Her career in fitness has spanned over 30 years. Prior to joining the Good Housekeeping Institute, she worked as a personal trainer, writer and fitness instructor for some of London’s most prestigious health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Passionate about women’s health and fitness, especially in pre/post menopause, she is also a Level 4 PT and holds a professional nutritional qualification. Kim is responsible for rigorously testing everything from cross trainers to smart watches.
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