Quality Fitness on a Budget
The idea that you need to spend $3,000+ on a single piece of equipment is a myth. Some of the best-reviewed home gym machines cost well under $1,000, and we have tested them to prove it.
Best Budget Treadmill: XTERRA Fitness TR150
At around $400, the XTERRA Fitness TR150 is a capable folding treadmill with a 2.25 HP motor, 10 mph max speed, and 250 lb weight capacity. It lacks a touchscreen and fancy app integration, but it delivers solid running and walking performance at a fraction of premium treadmill prices.
Best for: Walkers and light joggers who want basic treadmill functionality.
Best Budget Exercise Bike: Schwinn IC4
The Schwinn IC4 regularly sells for around $799-999 and is one of the most recommended budget indoor cycling bikes. It features 100 micro-adjustable resistance levels, Bluetooth connectivity with apps like Peloton and Zwift, and a solid build quality that rivals bikes costing twice as much.
Best for: Anyone who wants a Peloton-like experience at a third of the price.
Best Budget Rowing Machine: Sunny Health SF-RW5515
At just $240, the Sunny Health SF-RW5515 is a steal. The near-silent magnetic resistance, foldable design, and easy assembly make it the perfect entry-level rowing machine. You will not get fancy metrics or connected features, but you will get a smooth, effective rowing workout.
Best for: Apartment dwellers and rowing beginners on a tight budget.
Best Budget Elliptical: Horizon EX-59
The Horizon EX-59 at $599 is a Best Buy award winner for good reason. It provides 10 resistance levels, an 18-inch stride, and a lifetime frame warranty — exceptional coverage for a machine at this price. The no-frills design means you can step on and start exercising without tech complications.
Best for: Beginners who want reliable, quiet cardio without subscription fees.
Best Budget Elliptical (Alternative): Schwinn 470
For $999, the Schwinn 470 offers a significant upgrade with 25 resistance levels, motorized incline, 20-inch stride, and 29 built-in programs. It straddles the line between budget and mid-range, offering premium features at an approachable price.
Best for: Those willing to stretch to $1,000 for substantially more features.
Best Budget Home Gym: Marcy Smith Cage SM-4033
The Marcy Smith Cage SM-4033 at $799 combines a smith machine, cable crossover, pull-up bar, and landmine station into one unit. Yes, weight plates are extra, but the cage itself delivers commercial-gym-style exercises at a fraction of a gym membership.
Best for: Home gym builders who want a full smith machine and cable setup on a budget.
How to Maximize Your Budget
- Buy during sales: Black Friday, Amazon Prime Day, and January new-year-resolution sales offer 20-40% discounts
- Consider refurbished: Many brands sell certified refurbished units at significant savings
- Skip the subscription: Many budget machines work perfectly without monthly fees
- Invest in one quality piece: One excellent machine beats three mediocre ones
The Bottom Line
You can build a fully functional home gym for under $1,000 with the right choices. Focus on quality over quantity, choose equipment that matches your preferred exercise style, and remember that the best machine is the one you will actually use consistently.
