The NordicTrack SpaceSaver Elliptical is a budget-priced unit that has a couple of standout features for a machine in this price range. Firstly, the SpaceSaver, as the name suggests, offers a compact design with a 27X64-inch footprint that folds to 27X40 inches when not in use; this makes it easy to store the SpaceSaver in a corner or even a large closet, which is a key feature for those with limited space in an apartment or condo, for example. The second standout feature of the SpaceSaver is its StrideSelect technology. StrideSelect enables you to select one of three different stride lengths in order to target different muscle groups, or simply select a stride length that is most comfortable for your height. A short 12-inch stride focuses on the buns and hips, a medium 15-inch stride concentrates more on cardio, and the long 18-inch stride provides calorie burn and weight loss.

While the StrideSelect feature is certainly a welcome one, we are a little disappointed that the longest stride length was 18 inches, which is common for budget-priced elliptical machines but is still not long enough for very tall users to obtain a comfortable motion. The SpaceSaver delivers a solid enough ride, and the Silent Magnetic Resistance delivers smooth resistance at one of ten different intensity levels. Unfortunately, this machine fails to deliver on the "silent" part of its description; we find that the NordicTrack SpaceSaver is a noisy piece of home fitness equipment that produces plenty of audible squeaks as you work out.

The 250-pound user weight limit and one-year warranty on parts and labor don't suggest this is an elliptical machine that is built to last. As such, we strongly recommend looking at the extended warranty options on this device to avoid service headaches after a year of use. For a budget-priced machine, the Space Saver offers plenty of features. The machine offers an electronic display with an impressive 180-degree viewing angle, a large fan that is built into the console and ten different workout programs, including two different heart rate programs. The handgrip pulse monitor keeps track of your heart rate and alerts you when you fall out of your targeted heart rate zone. If you're on a budget, have limited space at home and can live with the noisy operation, the NordicTrack SpaceSaver elliptical machine is worth considering.


Pros: Three stride adjustments, compact folding design, ten built-in workouts, pulse monitoring
Cons: Noisy operation, poor warranty

Warranty
1 year, parts and labor