By clicking on the product links in this article, we may receive a commission fee at no cost to you, the reader. Sponsorships and affiliate commissions help support our research so we can help you find the best products. Read the full affiliate disclosure here.
Investing in a home gym can be an effective strategy if you're hoping to drop a few pounds. When it comes to cardio equipment for weight loss, there are a ton of options, so it's important to do your research. Some cardio machines offer a full-body workout (e.g., rowing machines) while others (e.g., stair steppers) focus more on the lower body. You can get a good workout with any kind of cardio machine, as long as it's something you do regularly.
The key to weight loss is duration and intensity. The longer and harder you work out, the more calories you'll burn. However, it's a fine balance—you don't want to exercise so hard that you get burned out or injured!
The Best Cardio Machines for Weight Loss - Our Top Picks
Rowing Machines
- NordicTrack RW900 Rower
- Aviron Strong Series Rower
- Echelon Row-s Connected Rowing Machine
- Proform Pro R10
Treadmills
- NordicTrack Commercial 2450
- Echelon Stride-5s Smart Treadmill
- ProForm Pro 9000
- Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT
Ellipticals
Exercise Bikes
- NordicTrack S27i Studio Bike
- Echelon EX-8s Connect Bike
- ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22
- Horizon Fitness 7.0 IC
Climbers
- ProForm Carbon HIIT H10
- Sunny Health & Fitness Stepper Machine
- Sole CC81
- Life Fitness Powermill Climber
We've rounded up the best cardio machines for weight loss so whether you're looking for a high-intensity run or a low-impact bike ride, there's guaranteed to be a cardio machine that will work for you. Take a look at our list of weight loss machines, and you'll be sweating your way to fitness in no time.
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
NordicTrack RW900 Rower
SPECS
- Benefits: Full-body workout, low impact, ability to stream on-demand workouts from the large pivoting screen
- Muscles used: Calves, quads, hamstrings, glutes, abs, obliques, pecs, biceps, triceps, deltoids, upper back, and lats
The RW900 Rower has a large 22-inch rotating HD touchscreen and a premium sound system, allowing you to stream workouts with ease. We also like that the resistance auto-adjusts based on your workout and the ergonomic handles and seat keep things comfortable.
The innovative sliding rail system combined with an inertia-enhanced flywheel and Silent Magnetic Resistance™ (SMR) technology makes for a smooth and silent workout. Perfect if you're an apartment dweller or live in a shared space.
What We Like
- Auto-adjust resistance means you can focus on your workout and not on pushing buttons
- Oversized pedals with adjustable foot straps
- 22" HD screen and premium sound system
- Extremely smooth and quiet
What We Don't Like
- 250-lb. weight capacity is on the lower end
- Advanced rowers may need more resistance than what is offered by the machine's 26 levels
Aviron Strong Series Rower
SPECS
- Benefits: Full-body workout, low impact, ability to stream interactive workouts on the 22" pivoting screen
- Muscles used: Calves, quads, hamstrings, glutes, abs, obliques, pecs, biceps, triceps, deltoids, upper back, and lats
If you're looking for the absolute most for the money, the Aviron Strong Series is hard to beat. This premium rowing machine features a 22-inch HD touchscreen that can rotate from left to right or up and down, and choose from over 500 workouts across eight categories. If you're a gamer, you'll love their interactive video-game-like rowing sessions to make your workout fun and entertaining.
The Aviron Strong Rower combines air and magnetic resistance and has a sturdy steel and aluminum frame with a boastful weight capacity of up to 500 pounds. You're also getting up to 100 pounds of resistance across 16 levels. Additionally, the seat and footpad are contoured and comfortable, with the option to purchase the compatible Aviron lumbar support and cloud seat add-ons. The membership plan has unlimited profiles, so you'll only need one account for your household to share.
What We Like
- 500+ exciting interactive workouts with membership
- Rotating/pivoting 22"HD touchscreen (up/down, left/right)
- 10-year frame and 1-year parts warranty
- 30-day risk-free trial
What We Don't Like
- Expensive machine + membership
- Larger footprint when in use and will need an outlet
Echelon Row-s Connected Rowing Machine
SPECS
- Benefits: Full-body workout, low impact, ability to stream live and on-demand on the 22" rotating screen
- Muscles used: Calves, quads, hamstrings, glutes, abs, obliques, pecs, biceps, triceps, deltoids, upper back, and lats
With its compact, ergonomic design and a membership that gives you options for over 40 live and 1,000s of on-demand workouts, the Echelon Row-s Connected Rower is truly an amazing piece of home cardio equipment. You're getting 32 adjustable magnetic resistance levels, Bluetooth audio, and a foldable design for easy storage.
You don't necessarily have to purchase the monthly subscription to use this rower. You are still able to track strokes per minute, total strokes, distance, time, and calories. However, you'll be missing out on the full connectivity and immersion of Echelon's programming, including scenic rows from around the world.
What We Like
- Easy to fold and store
- Membership has 40+ live and 1,000+ on-demand classes/workouts
- Comfortable, ergonomic seat
- 22" class HD touchscreen display
What We Don't Like
- At 114 lbs., can be slightly heavy to move
- Must be plugged into an outlet to use
BUY: Echelon Row-s Connected Rowing Machine
ProForm Pro R10
SPECS
- Benefits: Full-body workout, low impact, iFIT workouts adjust resistance manually for a hands-free workout
- Muscles used: Calves, quads, hamstrings, glutes, abs, obliques, pecs, biceps, triceps, deltoids, upper back, and lats
With 24 magnetic resistance levels and a 10-inch smart HD touchscreen with iFIT connectivity, users can get a range of workouts on this machine. We like the ergonomic seat, oversized pedals, adjustable velcro foot straps, and sturdy design. Plus when you're finished sweating, you can fold the machine flat and roll it out of the way via the transport wheels. The weight capacity is only 250 pounds, so keep that in mind if you're a heavier user.
What We Like
- Included 3-year iFIT membership
- Space-saving design; folds up easily when not in use
- Magnetic resistance mechanism is smooth and silent
What We Don't Like
- 250-lb. weight limit is on the lower hand
- The handles can interfere with adjusting the foot pedals
NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
SPECS
- Benefits: Connected treadmill with the ability to auto-adjust pace and incline based on streaming workout, 3% decline, and 15% incline for a full range of terrain
- Muscles used: Quads, hamstrings, calves, glutes, abdominals, lower back
The Commercial 2450 is one of the most connected commercial treadmills on the market. It features AutoAdjust™ and ACTIVEPULSE™ technology as well as a GoogleMaps integration. Walk or run at speeds ranging from 0-12 mph and practice running hills with the decline and incline options. The 3.6 CHP motor is quiet yet powerful, making it ideal for runners. No matter what your workout, the included fan, device tray, and 22-inch HD screen will make the miles fly by.
What We Like
- 22" tilting and pivoting HD screen
- AutoAdjust™ technology, means incline and pace can be automatically adjusted based on streaming workouts
- ACTIVEPULSE™ TECHNOLOGY adjusts pace and incline to keep you within your optimal heart rate zone
What We Don't Like
- Tray doesn't have a ton of storage space
- Users reported that the screen shakes and vibrates at higher running speeds
BUY: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
Echelon Stride-5s Smart Treadmill
SPECS
- Benefits: 60" x 22" cushioned running deck and high weight limit (400 lbs.), ability to connect to live and on-demand classes with Echelon app, built-in cooling fan
- Muscles used: Quads, hamstrings, calves, glutes, abdominals, lower back
The Echelon Stride-5s Smart Treadmill brings quiet comfort to your home gym or living room with its Duro50-cushioned suspension running deck that helps minimize the impact on your joints and keep noise levels to a minimum. This treadmill has a longer running deck and higher weight capacity for extra accessibility. Additionally, the Echelon Stride-5s has 16 levels of speed ranging from 0.5 to 12.5 miles per hour. You can control your speed via the handlebar or use the quick select function on the 24-inch HD touchscreen.
If the safety of your treadmill is a concern, the Stride-5s has several safety features, including a rear-frame safety bar, a safety stop lanyard, and an emergency stop button. With the Echelon app, you'll get access to their library of live and on-demand classes, along with support from world-class instructors and the Echelon community.
What We Like
- 12.5mph max speed
- 24" HD touchscreen
- Cushioned running deck
- Multiple safety features
What We Don't Like
- Larger footprint and can't be folded
- Warranty is limited
BUY: Echelon Stride-5s Smart Treadmill
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
SPECS
- Benefits: 60" deck with ReBound Pro™ cushioning for shock absorption, strong 3.6 CHP motor keeps pace for miles and miles
- Muscles used: Quads, hamstrings, calves, glutes, abdominals, lower back
With speed options from 0-12 miles per hour and the ability to toggle between a 12% incline and -3% decline, this treadmill can keep up with any workout. It's also equipped with a powerful 3.6 CHP motor and Bluetooth capability. We like the space-saving fold-up design and the ReBound Pro™ cushioning on the belt. The machine also features a generous 22-inch smart HD screen so you can easily stream on-demand workouts.
What We Like
- 22" Smart HD touchscreen
- Shock absorbing deck made with ReBound Pro™
- Ability for incline and decline
What We Don't Like
- Weight limit of 300 lbs.
- Touchscreen can vibrate at higher speeds
Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Treadmill
SPECS
- Benefits: Extra long deck (60") and higher than average weight limit (325 lbs.), ability to connect to streaming workouts via Bluetooth, quick-dial controls are easy to use
- Muscles used: Quads, hamstrings, calves, glutes, abdominals, lower back
This machine has a longer-than-average running deck (60 inches) and a decently powerful 3.0 CHP motor, meaning it can keep up with even the most advanced runners. The speed options range from 0-12 mph and if you're looking for hill work, you can crank the incline up to 15%. It features Bluetooth connectivity for streaming workouts and quick-dial controls to easily adjust the pace and incline.
What We Like
- Quick-dial controls for rapid pace adjustment
- One-step hydraulic folding makes storage easy
- Bluetooth connectivity so you can stream on-demand workouts
What We Don't Like
- The display screen is basic compared to some of its peers
- Does not have a decline feature
NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer
SPECS
- Benefits: Up/down and forward/back movements plus incline options allow the user to access the benefits of a stair climber, treadmill, and elliptical
- Muscles used: Glutes, hamstrings, quads, chest, back, biceps, triceps, and abdominals
This unique machine offers up/down, forward/back, and incline options to give users the benefits of three machines: treadmill, elliptical, and stair climber. In addition to a 0-10% incline, this machine also offers decline options. It's ready to stream iFIT workouts and will automatically adjust incline and resistance based on the trainer's instructions.
Thoughtful extras like a generous adjustable stride length, an air fan, and oversized pedals make for a comfortable workout. The 14-inch smart HD touchscreen is big enough to view the workouts, but it's smaller than some competitors.
What We Like
- Automatic trainer control adjusts incline and resistance
- Automatically adjustable stride length
- 375-lb. weight capacity is higher than many machines
What We Don't Like
- Long stride length means you'll need plenty of clearance in front of and behind machine
- You'll need to pay a monthly fee for iFIT after the first 30 days (or use the machine in manual mode)
BUY: NordicTrack FS14i FreeStride Trainer
ProForm Carbon E10 Elliptical
SPECS
- Benefits: Low-impact cardio option that allows you to work your entire body
- Muscles used: Glutes, hamstrings, quads, chest, back, biceps, triceps, and abdominals
This Bluetooth-enabled machine features a large touchscreen and the iFIT-enabled workouts automatically adjust resistance while you work out. In addition to adjusting resistance, you can also adjust the incline and stride length for a tailored workout experience. Plus, the three years of included iFIT membership and 10-inch touchscreen make streaming workouts easy.
What We Like
- 25-lb. flywheel
- 10" HD touchscreen
- A 3-year iFIT membership is included
What We Don't Like
- Machine doesn't fold
- 275-lb. weight limit is on the lower end
BUY: ProForm Carbon E10 Elliptical
Horizon Fitness Evolve 5 Elliptical
SPECS
- Benefits: Heavy flywheel and generous 20" stride length offer users a smooth and comfortable workout, low impact, targets the whole body
- Muscles used: Glutes, hamstrings, quads, chest, back, biceps, triceps, and abdominals
With a patented rear folding design, this elliptical measures roughly 2.5 feet by 3.5 feet when stored. In addition to its compact footprint, users report that it's easy to assemble. It features 20 electronically adjustable resistance levels and a number of preset programs. The LCD screen is on the smaller side and it doesn't come with Bluetooth connectivity, but you can connect to ViaFit to track your workout stats. If you're looking for a moderately priced machine that will give you a good workout without taking up a ton of space, the Evolve 5 just might be the ticket!
What We Like
- Compact footprint
- Easy to assemble
- Heavy flywheel and frame for a smooth workout
What We Don't Like
- Not Bluetooth enabled
- 300-lb. weight limit
BUY: Horizon Fitness Evolve 5 Elliptical
Sole E98 Elliptical
SPECS
- Benefits: 20" stride length, integrated tablet holder, built-in programming
- Muscles used: Glutes, hamstrings, quads, chest, back, biceps, triceps, and abdominals
The Sole E98 Elliptical is built for commercial and home gym use and has the durability to withstand heavy cardio workouts. It has a weight capacity of up to 400 pounds, a stride length of 20 inches, and a sturdy 32-pound flywheel. The Sole 98 also has 10 built-in programs—six standard, two custom, and two heart—but also features an integrated tablet holder for streaming media, the integrated Studio app, or the workout app of your choice. You'll also have Bluetooth compatibility, a water bottle holder, a cooling fan, and the ability to connect to your heart rate monitor.
What We Like
- Lifetime frame warranty
- Built-in programming
- Tablet holder, water bottle holder, and cooling fan
- 90-day Studio trial
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Larger footprint and heavier to move
NordicTrack S27i Studio Cycle Bike
SPECS
- Benefits: A low-impact, high-intensity workout that is well connected to iFit technology
- Muscles used: Calves, hamstrings, quads, abdominals, back, glutes
With Bluetooth heart rate and headphone connectivity and a sizable 27-inch rotating HD touchscreen, this bike can compete with any premium brand on the market. Stream iFIT workouts and benefit from the auto-adjusting resistance and incline. We also like the option to clip in via the dual-sided pedals and the included three-pound weights, integrated fan, and dual water bottle holders.
This isn't an inexpensive machine, so prepare to pay for a monthly iFIT membership to fully take advantage of its features. Despite the cost, you'll get a great workout and the extras make the cost worth it.
What We Like
- 27" rotating HD touchscreen
- Pedals have cages on one side and SPD-compatible clips on the other side
- Handlebars are easy to adjust
What We Don't Like
- Expensive (comparable to premium brands like Peloton)
- iFIT membership requires a monthly fee
Echelon EX-8s Connect Bike
SPECS
- Benefits: A low-impact, high-intensity workout that is connected to the Echelon app, 15 metric-synced LED lights
- Muscles used: Calves, hamstrings, quads, abdominals, back, glutes
The Echelon EX-8s Connect Bike has all the smart features and functions you'd want in a connected bike at a lower price point, which is why it's considered one of the best Peloton alternatives. It has a 24-inch, 180-degree flippable touchscreen for cross-training, 32 levels of e-Drive magnetic resistance, and 15 colors of LED flywheel lights that can be synced directly to your mood and metrics.
You'll want to join the Echelon membership program to take full advantage of this smart cardio machine. The app has over 40 daily live classes with expert instructors, thousands of on-demand classes, and access to the Echelon community for extra motivation and accountability. If membership feels like a big commitment, there are options for monthly, annual, and two-year memberships available.
What We Like
- 24" curved HD touchscreen
- 32 levels of magnetic resistance
- Adjustable handlebars and seat
- LED light system in flywheels
What We Don't Like
- Limited warranty
- Can be heavy and hard to move
BUY: Echelon EX-8s Connect Bike
ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22
SPECS
- Benefits: Low-impact, high-intensity workout wrapped up in a machine that doesn't take up a ton of space
- Muscles used: Calves, hamstrings, quads, abdominals, back, glutes
This bike is moderately priced and the connected iFIT workouts offer full-body cross-training options. The handlebars and seat are adjustable for a comfortable ride and the large 22-inch HD touchscreen makes viewing on-demand workouts a breeze. Overall this is a great option for calorie-burning cardio, but keep in mind that the weight limit is only 250 pounds, so this might not be a good option for larger users.
What We Like
- Large 22" HD touchscreen
- Ability to stream on-demand workouts via iFIT
- Adjustable handlebars and seat
What We Don't Like
- iFIT membership is an additional monthly fee (after the 30-day trial)
- 250-lb. weight limit
BUY: ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22
Horizon Fitness 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle
SPECS
- Benefits: A well-connected, low-impact workout for the fraction of the price
- Muscles used: Calves, hamstrings, quads, abdominals, back, glutes
If you're looking for options, the 7.0 IC has it, with 100 levels of resistance and pedals equipped with SPD clips on one side and cages on the other. It's also Bluetooth enabled so you can connect to your favorite apps (Zwift, Peloton) for on-demand workouts. This is a well-connected bike at a very wallet-friendly price, but unlike some of its competitors, be prepared for a smaller-than-average display screen.
What We Like
- Lots of included extras like Bluetooth heart rate band and clip-in pedals
- 100 electronically controlled resistance levels
- 4-way adjustable handlebars and seat
- Eye-level tablet holder and charging port
What We Don't Like
- Very small LCD screen
- 300-lb. weight limit
BUY: Horizon Fitness 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle
ProForm Carbon HIIT H10 Elliptical and Stepper
SPECS
- Benefits: Full-body, low-impact workout with the benefits of both an elliptical and a climber
- Muscles used: Quads, glutes, hamstrings, calves, and core
Working off of Silent Magnetic Resistance™ (SMR) makes this machine extremely quiet. It also features extra touches like a water bottle holder, fan, and oversized cushioned pedals.
The 10-inch HD touchscreen display has the ability to stream iFIT-enabled workouts, but if you'd rather not connect to that app, there are over 50 non-iFIT workouts on board. This machine also features 24 resistance levels and offers the benefits (and calorie burn) of both an elliptical and a climber.
What We Like
- iFIT-connected workouts automatically adjust the resistance for you
- Burn more calories with the machine's 10" vertical and 5" horizontal elliptical path
- 3-year iFIT membership included
What We Don't Like
- Users say assembly can be tricky
- Primarily a lower-body workout
Sunny Health & Fitness Stepper Machine
SPECS
- Benefits: Convenient machine that tones the lower body and glutes
- Muscles used: Quads, glutes, hamstrings, calves, and core
If you're looking for a basic and inexpensive cardio machine, the Fitness Stepper is a solid choice. With a space-saving design, a sturdy base, and non-slip pedals, you'll be able to break a sweat without breaking the bank.
While it's on the basic side, it does feature adjustable handlebars, height, and resistance levels, as well as a digital monitor to track metrics. If you need a little extra motivation, follow along with workouts on the brand's YouTube channel.
What We Like
- Space-saving design
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Easy to assemble
What We Don't Like
- Very basic model, doesn't work the upper body
- Only 250-lb. weight limit
BUY: Sunny Health & Fitness Stepper Machine
Sole Fitness Sole CC81
SPECS
- Benefits: Low-impact, full-body workout that combines the best of an elliptical and a climber
- Muscles used: Quads, glutes, hamstrings, calves, and core
This full-body machine combines the benefits of both an elliptical and a climber. It's adjustable for different heights and you can alter the handles to target different muscles. In addition to being quiet, it also features a vertical space-saving design.
One feature that makes this machine stand out is that it doesn't require the internet. The screen and tech are a bit basic, but this is a great option if you live in an area without access to high-speed internet (or simply don't want to slow down your WiFi). Even without the internet, the CC81 offers onboard workouts as well as manual mode.
What We Like
- Space-saving footprint
- Full-body workout
- 400-lb. weight capacity
- Doesn't require internet or expensive monthly subscriptions
What We Don't Like
- Not Bluetooth enabled, can't connect workout stats with apps
- The LCD screen is small and technology is pretty basic
Life Fitness Powermill Climber
SPECS
- Benefits: Full range of motion workout for the lower body and core, low impact
- Muscles used: Quads, glutes, hamstrings, calves, and core
This machine provides a fantastic workout for the lower body and core with 26 stepping speeds and a motor-driven design, meaning no matter your body weight, you can access the entire range of speeds.
It's on the pricier end of cardio machines, but has numerous console options to tailor the price and also features an anti-pinch design for toes, a large stepping surface area, an accessory tray, and cup holders.
What We Like
- One of the largest stepping speed ranges on the market
- Variety of console options from basic to premium
- High weight capacity (400 lbs.)
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Doesn't target upper body
How Cardio Machines Help with Weight Loss
In order to lose weight, you need to create a calorie deficit or burn more calories than you consume. You can burn hundreds of calories per hour through moderate cardio exercise. The trick to avoiding boredom and sticking to a routine is to find an exercise that you enjoy! It's important to note that cardio is just one piece of the weight-loss puzzle. In order to change your body composition (build muscle and reduce fat), you'll also need to focus on solid nutrition and good sleep habits.
Treadmill
A treadmill is a nice cardio option for all fitness levels. If you're just starting out, you can walk at a moderate pace. Once you've built up a fitness base, you can progress to incline walking or walk-jog intervals. If you're up for a high-impact activity, not much can match the calorie burn of a run.
Elliptical Machine
Depending on the resistance you choose, an elliptical can potentially burn more calories in 30 minutes than any other cardio machine. An elliptical is a good choice if you're looking for a low-impact workout that will be easy on your knees and hips.
Rowing Machine
Because you'll be pushing with your legs, pulling with your arms, and keeping your core engaged, a rowing machine is a true full-body workout. It's also low impact (good for creaky joints) and can be customized according to fitness level.
Stair Climber
A stair climber is a great way to work your lower body. In no time, your glutes (and hamstrings and quads and calves…) will be feeling the burn! The stair climber is easier on your joints than a treadmill, so this is a good low-impact, yet weight-bearing option.
Exercise Bike
There are multiple types of exercise bikes, so whether you're looking for a recumbent bike, an under-the-desk pedal machine, a spin bike, or an air bike, there's an option on the market. Exercise bikes primarily work lower-body muscles, but if you choose an upright model, you'll also work on core stability.
FAQs About Cardio Machines for Weight Loss
What cardio machine is best for belly fat?
It's difficult to spot treat areas of the body, so you'll need to focus on overall weight loss. Most cardio machines will burn a similar amount of calories, so choose an exercise based on your fitness history and personal preferences. For low-impact, high-intensity workouts that will work the whole body, rowers and ellipticals fit the bill.
What is the most effective cardio machine?
The most effective cardio machine is the one that you'll use! If you hate running and struggle to do it for more than a few minutes, a treadmill won't be a good option. Choose a machine that you enjoy and can see yourself doing on a regular basis. The more you work out, the more calories you burn! That being said, machines like assault bikes, ellipticals, and rowers can offer a full-body workout, which can be very efficient.
Is an elliptical or treadmill better to lose weight?
If your body can handle the high impact of a treadmill, there's not much that compares to a steady run or a high-intensity interval training (HITT) workout on the treadmill. But if you prefer to limit the pounding, an elliptical is a great low-impact alternative.
What burns the most calories in 30 minutes?
So much of calorie burn will depend on the intensity of the exercise. For example, 30 minutes of walking on the treadmill will burn far fewer calories than running for 30 minutes. If you work out at a moderate intensity, most cardio machines will burn a similar amount of calories. But if you're looking for a full-body, low-impact workout, choose an elliptical or a rowing machine.
About the Author
Megan is a runner and writer who resides in upstate New York. She is a former collegiate runner and regularly competes in marathons. Megan uses her personal experience in competitive running to review fitness equipment and write running guides.
Get ACTIVE on the Go
Couch to 5K®
The best way to get new runners off the couch and across the finish line of their first 5K.
Available for iOS | Android
Discuss This Article