SOLE E25 vs ProForm Carbon EL Elliptical: Differences, Specs & Price

Key Takeaways

• The SOLE E25 outperforms the ProForm Carbon EL in flywheel weight (20 lbs vs 15 lbs), power incline levels (20 vs 5 manual), and weight capacity (350 lbs vs 275 lbs), winning every head-to-head spec comparison.
• The Carbon EL's 5 incline positions require stopping and stepping off to adjust manually, while the E25's 20 power incline levels change instantly from the console or handgrip controls during a workout.
• The SOLE E25 includes the free SOLE+ App with hundreds of trainer-led classes at no ongoing cost, while the Carbon EL requires an iFIT subscription starting at $15/month after a 30-day trial to access guided workouts.
• After three years, the E25 costs $1,199.99 total while the Carbon EL with iFIT Train costs approximately $1,339.99 ($799.99 + $540 in subscriptions), making SOLE the better long-term value.
• The SOLE E25's lifetime frame and flywheel warranty far exceeds the Carbon EL's 10-year frame coverage, providing decades more protection.

The E25 Costs More But Delivers More

The SOLE E25 at $1,199.99 wins every measurable spec over the ProForm Carbon EL at $799.99: a 20-pound flywheel versus 15, 20 power incline levels versus 5 manual positions, and a 350-pound weight capacity versus 275. The E25 also includes the free SOLE+ App with trainer-led classes, while the Carbon EL charges $15/month for iFIT after a 30-day trial. Factor in that subscription and the E25 actually costs less over three years of ownership.

The ProForm costs $400 less upfront but requires an iFIT subscription starting at $15/month to access trainer-led workouts and automatic resistance adjustment, while the E25 includes the FREE SOLE+ App with hundreds of classes at no ongoing cost.

This guide breaks down every spec, the real cost of ownership over three years, and which elliptical fits different training priorities.

SOLE E25 Overview

The E25 delivers commercial-quality construction with physical therapist-designed pedals and subscription-free guided workouts.

The SOLE E25 represents the entry point to SOLE's elliptical lineup while maintaining the build quality the brand is known for. The 20-pound flywheel creates smooth, consistent resistance through all 20 levels. Combined with 20 power incline settings adjusted directly from the console or handgrip controls, the E25 provides a workout variety that budget ellipticals cannot match.

The foot pedals feature a 2-degree inward slope designed in collaboration with a physical therapist to reduce ankle and knee stress during extended sessions. Four rear wheels ride on heavy-duty rails for stable, side-to-side-free motion. These design elements address the joint protection that draws many users to ellipticals in the first place.

The 7.5-inch backlit LCD display tracks essential metrics including time, distance, calories, pulse, and incline level. Built-in pulse sensors on the stationary handlebars monitor heart rate, and the E25 supports wireless heart rate monitors for more accurate readings. Bluetooth speakers stream audio from connected devices.

The FREE SOLE+ App provides hundreds of guided workouts led by professional trainers at no cost. Unlike iFIT, Peloton, or other subscription platforms, SOLE+ remains free for the life of the equipment. The app syncs workout data and provides structured programs across all fitness levels.

ProForm Carbon EL Overview

The Carbon EL offers the lowest entry price with iFIT integration but requires ongoing subscription costs for full functionality.

The ProForm Carbon EL targets budget-conscious buyers who prioritize initial purchase price over long-term value. The 15-pound flywheel provides adequate resistance for beginners and moderate users but feels less smooth than heavier alternatives. The 18 resistance levels offer reasonable workout variety, though the 5-position manual incline ramp requires stopping to adjust.

The 5-inch high-contrast display shows basic metrics and connects to iFIT via Bluetooth when paired with your own tablet or phone. iFIT trainers can automatically adjust the Carbon EL's resistance during guided workouts, creating an interactive experience. However, iFIT starts at $15/month after the included 30-day trial, adding at least $180 annually to the total cost of ownership.

The 19-inch manual adjustable stride accommodates most users but falls slightly short of the 20-inch standard that taller athletes prefer. The 275-pound weight capacity limits the user base significantly compared to the E25's 350-pound rating.

Price

SOLE E25 Pricing & Warranty

The SOLE E25 is priced at $1,199.99 with financing available at checkout. The FREE SOLE+ App is included at no ongoing cost for the life of the equipment.

The warranty covers the frame and flywheel for life, parts and wear items for two years, and labor for one year. There is no light commercial coverage. The lifetime flywheel warranty is particularly notable as most competitors at this price point do not specify flywheel coverage separately.

ProForm Carbon EL Pricing & Warranty

The ProForm Carbon EL is priced at $799.99. A 30-day iFIT trial is included, after which the subscription starts at $15 per month for the Train tier. Buyers who want trainer-led workouts and automatic resistance adjustment need to factor this into total cost.

The warranty covers the frame for 10 years, parts for one year, and labor for one year. Flywheel warranty terms are not publicly specified and should be confirmed directly with ProForm before purchase.

Differences Compared

Flywheel and Resistance Feel

The most immediately noticeable difference between these two machines is how they feel underfoot. The E25's 20-pound flywheel creates momentum that smooths out the pedal stroke and reduces jerkiness during resistance changes. The Carbon EL's 15-pound flywheel provides adequate resistance for beginners and moderate users but produces noticeably less fluid motion, especially at higher resistance levels. For users who plan to train at moderate to high intensity regularly, this difference is felt in every session.

Incline: Power vs Manual

The E25 offers 20 power incline levels adjusted directly from the console or handgrip controls, allowing instant changes during a workout without breaking stride. The Carbon EL provides 5 manual ramp positions that require stopping, stepping off, adjusting the ramp, and restarting. For interval training or programs that vary incline frequently, the E25's approach is meaningfully more practical.

Pedal Design

The E25's foot pedals feature a 2-degree inward slope designed in collaboration with a physical therapist to reduce ankle and knee stress during extended sessions. The Carbon EL uses 3-position cushioned pedals without the inward angle. Users with previous joint issues report reduced discomfort on the E25, validating the PT-designed approach for anyone choosing an elliptical specifically for low-impact training.

Guided Workouts and Subscription Model

The E25 includes the FREE SOLE+ App with hundreds of trainer-led classes at no cost for the life of the equipment. The Carbon EL comes with a 30-day iFIT trial, after which guided workouts and automatic resistance adjustment require a subscription starting at $15 per month. Users who skip iFIT are left with a basic elliptical and no built-in programs. This is the single biggest practical difference between the two machines for anyone who wants structured training.

Weight Capacity

The E25 supports users up to 350 pounds. The Carbon EL's 275-pound limit reduces headroom for larger athletes and affects long-term stability under load. Users over 250 pounds should factor this in, as operating near a machine's weight limit accelerates wear on components.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

The E25 Wins on Specs, Cost of Ownership, and Warranty

The SOLE E25 costs more at checkout but saves money over time. Three years of ownership totals $1,199.99 with SOLE versus approximately $1,339.99 with ProForm and iFIT Train. The E25's heavier flywheel, power incline, higher weight capacity, and longer warranty justify the upfront investment for users who plan to keep their elliptical for years rather than months.

The E25's PT-designed 2-degree pedal slope, lifetime frame and flywheel warranty, and free SOLE+ App make it the stronger long-term investment for home elliptical training. Shop the SOLE E25 and compare models on the SOLE elliptical page.

Shop the SOLE E25 today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which elliptical has smoother resistance?

The SOLE E25. Its 20-pound flywheel creates more momentum than the Carbon EL's 15-pound flywheel, producing smoother pedal motion especially at higher resistance levels.

Do I need to pay for iFIT with the ProForm Carbon EL?

No, but without iFIT the Carbon EL has no built-in workout programs. You can use it in manual mode, but guided workouts require a subscription starting at $15/month for the Train tier after the 30-day trial.

Which elliptical is better for someone over 250 pounds?

The SOLE E25 with its 350-pound weight capacity. The Carbon EL's 275-pound limit provides minimal headroom for users over 250 pounds.

Can I use the SOLE E25 without WiFi?

Yes. The E25 works fully offline with 9 built-in programs. The SOLE+ App enhances the experience but is not required for basic operation.

What warranty does SOLE offer on the E25?

The E25  comes with a lifetime frame and flywheel coverage with 2 years on parts and wear items, plus 1 year of labor. 

*Note: SOLE does not manufacture or sell the ProForm Carbon EL. This is an independent review of a product for comparison purposes. 

**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.