Introduction
If you live in a small apartment, you know how tough it is to find cardio equipment that doesn’t take over your entire living space. Treadmills and rowers are great, but sometimes you want a low-impact cardio machine that’s easy on the joints and still delivers a killer workout. That’s where the best compact ellipticals for apartments come in.
Ellipticals provide a smooth stride, full-body movement, and effective calorie burn—all while staying quiet enough that you won’t wake your neighbors. The new generation of compact ellipticals in 2025 are built specifically for small spaces: they fold, roll into corners, or even fit under your desk.
In this guide, we’ll break down the top compact ellipticals for apartments, how much space they really take, and which one gives you the most value.
Quick Picks
- Best overall compact elliptical: Sole E25 – durable, 20” stride, built-in wheels, compact footprint.
- Best foldable budget elliptical: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 – under $250, folds for easy storage, lightweight.
- Best under-desk elliptical: Cubii Move – fits under desks, whisper-quiet, great for work-from-home.
Comparison Table
| Model | Type | Dimensions | Best For | Price/Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sole E25 | Full elliptical | 70” x 24” x 64” | Overall performance | Check Price |
| Sunny SF-E905 | Foldable elliptical | 28” x 17” x 57” | Budget, small spaces | Check Price |
| Cubii Move | Under-desk elliptical | 23” x 17” x 10” | Work-from-home use | Check Price |
1. Sole E25 – Best Overall Compact Elliptical
The Sole E25 packs a full-size workout into a surprisingly compact frame. With a 20” stride length, this elliptical works for taller users while still fitting in most apartments. Built-in wheels make it easy to tilt and move against a wall when you’re done. All of this makes it one of the best compact ellipticals for apartments.
- Dimensions: 70” L x 24” W x 64” H
- Resistance: Magnetic, 20 levels
- Noise: Extremely quiet, apartment-approved
2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 – Best Foldable Budget Elliptical
For under $250, the Sunny SF-E905 is one of the most affordable compact ellipticals for apartments. Its frame is lightweight and foldable, making it a great choice for beginners or those who want an easy cardio machine that can be tucked away when not in use. All of this makes it one of the best compact ellipticals for apartments.
- Dimensions: 28” L x 17” W x 57” H
- Resistance: Magnetic with 8 levels
- Noise: Quiet stride, perfect for upstairs apartments
3. Cubii Move – Best Under-Desk Compact Elliptical
The Cubii Move is different: instead of a full-frame elliptical, this one sits under your desk. It’s ideal if you work from home and want to sneak in extra steps while answering emails. The motion is smooth and nearly silent, so you can even use it in shared spaces without disturbing anyone. All of this makes it one of the best compact ellipticals for apartments.
- Dimensions: 23” L x 17” W x 10” H
- Resistance: Adjustable tension
- Noise: Whisper-quiet pedals
Apartment Elliptical Buying Guide
1. Measure Your Space
Compact ellipticals range from under-desk models to full-size trainers. Always check folded or stored dimensions.
2. Noise Matters
- Magnetic resistance = whisper quiet (best for apartments).
- Air resistance = louder, not ideal for upstairs living.
3. Portability
Look for foldable frames or built-in wheels. A 70” elliptical is manageable if it rolls away easily.
4. Budget vs. Features
- Under $300 → good for beginners and light workouts.
- $600+ → stronger build, longer stride, better for daily use.
FAQs
Q: Are ellipticals too noisy for apartments?
Magnetic ellipticals are very quiet. Models like the Sole E25 or Cubii are safe for apartment use.
Q: Can compact ellipticals still give a good workout?
Yes. Even under-desk models burn calories and improve circulation, while full compact ellipticals provide full-body training.
Q: What’s the smallest elliptical option?
The Cubii Move is only 23” long, making it one of the smallest ellipticals available.
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Conclusion
The best compact ellipticals for apartments in 2025 prove you don’t need a massive home gym to stay fit.
- Pick the Sole E25 if you want a durable, full-sized elliptical that still fits apartment living.
- Choose the Sunny SF-E905 if you need something lightweight, foldable, and budget-friendly.
- Go with the Cubii Move if you want to pedal away under your desk without sacrificing space.
Whether you’re in a studio, condo, or dorm, these compact ellipticals keep you moving without dominating your apartment. If you’re serious about fitness but short on space, one of these ellipticals will be the perfect fit.