4 Top BowFlex Max Trainer Alternatives in 2026

Key Takeaways

• The BowFlex Max Trainer combines stepper and elliptical movement for short, intense workouts, but its compact design limits stride length, incline options, and smooth, low-impact cardio.

• The SOLE E25 and E35 offer affordable to mid-range alternatives with a 20-inch stride, 20 resistance and incline levels, and Bluetooth-connected app workouts.

• The SOLE E95 is the premium alternative, featuring a 27-pound flywheel, 13.3-inch touchscreen, and 400-pound weight capacity that exceeds the Max Trainer's 300-pound limit.

• The Horizon 7.0 AE rounds out the top picks with a 23-pound flywheel and 20-inch stride at a lower price point than most SOLE models.

• SOLE backs every elliptical with a free SOLE+ app, free shipping, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, making it easy to switch from a Max Trainer risk-free.

*Note: SOLE does not manufacture or sell the BowFlex Max Trainer M6 or Horizon 7.0 AE. This is an independent review of these products for comparison purposes only.

Choosing an Elliptical Alternative to the BowFlex Max Trainer

The best BowFlex Max Trainer alternative depends on how you like to train, since traditional ellipticals trade short bursts of intensity for smoother, longer-stride cardio. The Max Trainer packs stepper and elliptical motion into a compact frame built for quick, high-effort intervals. That design works well for some, but it also means a shorter stride and no adjustable incline, two things regular elliptical users often miss.

Switching to a full-size elliptical also changes what your knees and ankles feel during a workout. A longer stride distributes impact more evenly, which matters if you train several days a week or manage joint sensitivity. Floor space matters too, since a traditional elliptical needs more room than the Max Trainer's compact footprint.

SOLE builds its elliptical lineup around that longer, lower-impact motion, with models ranging from budget-friendly to premium touchscreen options. Each one adds adjustable resistance, incline control, and free workout app access, features you won't find on a compact stepper-style trainer.

Top 4 BowFlex Max Trainer Alternatives in 2026 

1. SOLE E25 Elliptical – Best for Affordable, Everyday Cardio

The SOLE E25 delivers smooth, low-impact cardio with adjustable resistance and incline options.

The SOLE E25 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a dependable, budget-friendly elliptical without sacrificing performance. 

It features a smooth 20-inch stride, 20 levels of ECB magnetic resistance, and 20 levels of power incline, allowing you to increase workout intensity and target different lower-body muscle groups. Convenient handlebar controls let you adjust both incline and resistance without interrupting your workout.

The E25 also supports the free SOLE+ app via Bluetooth, giving you access to hundreds of instructor-led workouts without requiring a paid subscription. A built-in cooling fan, Bluetooth speakers, tablet holder, and heart rate monitoring further enhance the overall experience.

• Why It’s a Better Alternative: The SOLE E25 is a better BowFlex Max Trainer M6 alternative for users who prefer longer, traditional elliptical workouts with 20 resistance and incline levels, rather than primarily HIIT-focused training.

• Price & Warranty: The SOLE E25 is currently listed at $1,199.99 and includes lifetime frame and flywheel coverage; two-year magnetic brake, electronics, and parts coverage; one-year labor coverage; and 90-day cosmetic coverage.

• Best For: The SOLE E25 is best for users who want a reliable, low-impact elliptical with adjustable incline and resistance at an affordable price.

2. SOLE E35 Elliptical – Best for Connected, Comfort Focused Workouts

The SOLE E35 adds touchscreen technology and enhanced comfort for a more connected workout experience.

The SOLE E35 builds on the E25 with upgraded technology and comfort features. Its standout addition is a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Wi-Fi, screen mirroring, and built-in entertainment apps, creating a more interactive workout experience. Like the E25, it offers 20 resistance levels and 20 power incline levels, along with Bluetooth compatibility for the free SOLE+ app.

A heavier 25-pound flywheel provides smoother motion, while ergonomically designed adjustable foot pedals help reduce ankle and knee stress during longer workouts. Wireless charging, Bluetooth speakers, and an integrated tablet holder add extra convenience.

• Why It’s a Better Alternative: The SOLE E35 offers more for the price, with adjustable incline, a full 20-inch stride, a touchscreen display, and free SOLE+ workout classes, giving it a more versatile feature set than the BowFlex Max Trainer M6. 

• Price & Warranty: The SOLE E35 is priced at $1,799.99 and comes with a lifetime frame warranty, two-year parts coverage, one-year labor coverage, and 90-day cosmetic coverage.

• Best For: The SOLE E35 is best for home users who want a connected fitness experience with premium comfort and entertainment features.

3. SOLE E95 Elliptical – Best for Premium Comfort & Durability

The SOLE E95 combines premium features, adjustable pedals, and a heavier flywheel for smoother workouts.

The SOLE E95 is SOLE's premium front-drive elliptical, built for users who want commercial-quality durability and advanced features. It comes equipped with a 13.3-inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi connectivity, screen mirroring, built-in entertainment apps, and wireless charging. Bluetooth connectivity also lets you access the free SOLE+ app without a subscription.

Its 27-pound flywheel delivers exceptionally smooth operation, while 20 resistance levels and 20 power incline levels provide plenty of workout variety. One of its biggest advantages is the adjustable oversized pedals, which allow users to customize the pedal angle for greater comfort and reduced stress on the ankles and feet.

• Why It’s a Better Alternative: The SOLE E95 offers more features for the price, including adjustable pedals, power incline, a touchscreen, and a 400-pound weight capacity, compared with the BowFlex Max Trainer’s 300-pound capacity. 

• Price & Warranty: The SOLE E95 costs $2,299.99 and includes lifetime frame and flywheel coverage; three-year magnetic brake, electronics, and parts coverage; one-year labor coverage; and 90-day cosmetic coverage.

• Best For: The SOLE E95 is best for serious home fitness enthusiasts looking for a premium elliptical with advanced technology, exceptional comfort, and long-lasting durability.

4. Horizon 7.0 AE Elliptical – Best for Value Focused Traditional Training

The Horizon 7.0 AE combines adjustable incline, smooth magnetic resistance, and a heavy flywheel for versatile home cardio (Image source: Horizon Fitness).

The Horizon 7.0 AE is a versatile home elliptical with a 20-inch stride, 23-pound flywheel, 20 levels of magnetic resistance, and 20 incline levels. One-touch keys and handlebar controls make it easy to adjust resistance and incline during a workout, while the SixStar frame supports a comfortable body position.

It also includes Bluetooth connectivity, built-in speakers, a cooling fan, tablet rack, and USB charging port. Users can connect multiple devices for streaming and use Horizon’s free app to control workouts and sync workout data with compatible fitness apps.

• Why It’s a Better Alternative: The Horizon 7.0 AE offers more workout versatility with a longer 20-inch elliptical stride, adjustable resistance, and incline, providing more movement and training options than the BowFlex Max Trainer.

• Price & Warranty: The Horizon 7.0 AE costs $999 and includes lifetime frame and brake warranties, three-year parts coverage, and one-year flywheel and labor coverage.

• Best For: The Horizon 7.0 AE is best for home users who want a traditional elliptical with adjustable incline, Bluetooth connectivity, and a heavy flywheel for smooth workouts.

BowFlex Max Trainer vs. Top Elliptical Alternatives: Quick Comparison

SOLE Ellipticals Deliver a Smoother BowFlex Max Trainer Alternative

Replacing a BowFlex Max Trainer comes down to matching the machine to how you actually train. If you want quick, high-intensity intervals, a compact hybrid still does the job. But if smoother motion, adjustable incline, and a longer stride matter more, a traditional elliptical is the better long-term fit.

We build our elliptical lineup, from the entry-level E25 to the premium E95, around that smoother, adjustable training style. Every model includes a free SOLE+ app subscription, free shipping, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can choose with confidence. Explore the SOLE elliptical range and start training today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are BowFlex Max Trainers worth it?

BowFlex Max Trainers are worth considering for users who want compact machines that combine elliptical and stepper movements for efficient HIIT workouts. They offer intense full-body training, JRNY app compatibility, and multiple resistance levels. However, users wanting smoother, longer-stride cardio may prefer a traditional elliptical.

What is a better option than BowFlex?

A better option depends on your workout goals. SOLE ellipticals like the E25, E35, and E95 provide smoother low-impact movement, adjustable incline, longer strides, and durable construction. The Horizon 7.0 AE is another option for users who want affordable elliptical features with strong warranty coverage.

What is the difference between an elliptical and a BowFlex Max Trainer?

Traditional ellipticals focus on smooth, low-impact cardio with longer strides, adjustable resistance, and incline options. The BowFlex Max Trainer combines stepper and elliptical movements to create shorter, more intense HIIT workouts. Ellipticals suit steady training, while Max Trainers prioritize calorie-burning interval sessions.

Are SOLE ellipticals any good?

SOLE ellipticals are known for durable construction, smooth motion, comfortable designs, and useful features across different price ranges. Models like the E25, E35, and E95 offer adjustable resistance, incline levels, Bluetooth connectivity, and free SOLE+ app access for home fitness users.

*Disclaimer: Products and prices mentioned in this article are accurate as of the date of publication and are subject to change. Please visit the official SOLE website for the most current information.