Sole Vs. Bowflex Elliptical Machines: Which Is Better For You?

Elliptical machines are a popular cardio option for low-impact, full-body workouts at home. Two of the top brands for home ellipticals are Sole and Bowflex. But which is better for your needs?

In this guide, we’ll compare Sole and Bowflex ellipticals on key factors like price, features, design, warranties, and real customer experiences. By the end, you’ll have the info you need to decide which brand is right for your home gym.

A Brief Comparison Table

Sole Elliptical Overview

Sole makes 8 different elliptical models ranging in price from $999 to $2799. Their ellipticals are best known for:

• Smooth, Quiet Performance: Sole ellipticals use balanced flywheels and eddy current brakes for incredibly smooth, quiet motion. Most users say Sole ellipticals are much quieter than other brands.
• Adjustable Incline: Most Sole ellipticals have power adjustable inclines up to 30 degrees to target different muscle groups.
• Heavyweight Construction: Sole uses heavy duty steel frames on their ellipticals for excellent stability. Weights range from 215 to 375 pounds.
• Helpful Technology: Sole ellipticals come with features like LCD consoles with workout programs, Bluetooth connectivity, and charging ports for your devices. Higher end models have embedded tablet holders and fans too.

Bowflex Elliptical Overview

Bowflex offers 3 elliptical models ranging from $1399 to $2299. Here’s what stands out about Bowflex ellipticals:

• Compact Size: Bowflex ellipticals have very small footprints, with some models under 65 inches long. Great for tight spaces.
• Dynamic Resistance: Bowflex uses computer-controlled resistance that auto-adjusts as you change speed and incline. Provides a smooth, challenging workout.
• Upper Body Arms: Most Bowflex models have moving upper body arms for a total body workout. Arms target back, chest, shoulders and arms.
• Entertainment: Higher end Bowflex models have sizable HD touchscreen consoles with entertainment options like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ and immersive projected trails.

Sole Vs. Bowflex – Comparison Of Key Features

Here’s a detailed look at how Sole and Bowflex elliptical models compare on critical features:

Price

• Sole – $$999 to $2799
• Bowflex – $1399 to $2299

Sole offers lower priced options under $1500, while Bowflex’s models fall in the mid price range. Entry level Sole models give you great performance for under $1000.

Size/Dimensions

• Sole – 70-83 inches long x 28-36 inches wide
• Bowflex – 59-65 inches long x 28-29 inches wide

Bowflex ellipticals are more compact and space saving, while Sole models take up more room. Sole is better for taller users.

Stride Length

• Sole – 20-22 inches
• Bowflex – 18-22 inches

Stride length is similar, though Sole has a slight edge for taller users. A longer stride provides more natural motion.

Incline

• Sole – Adjusts 0-30 degrees (motorized)
• Bowflex – Fixed 10-degree incline

Sole lets you adjust incline on the fly to target different muscle groups. Bowflex incline is fixed.

Resistance

• Sole – Eddy current brake with 20-26 resistance levels
• Bowflex – Computer controlled dynamic resistance

Both systems provide smooth, adjustable resistance. Bowflex resistance auto-adjusts as you change speed and incline.

Console/Programs

• Sole – 7-10 inch LCDs, 9-32 workout programs
• Bowflex – 7-10 inch LCD or HD touchscreen, 16-25 programs

All models have LCD displays and a variety of built-in workout programs. Higher-end Bowflex models have immersive touchscreens.

Warranty

• Sole – Lifetime frame, 5 years parts, 2 years labor
• Bowflex – 10 years frame, 2 years parts, 1 year labor

Sole clearly provides the better warranty coverage over the long run.

Weight Limit

• Sole – 325-400 lbs
• Bowflex – 300 lbs

Sole accommodates heavier users. Bowflex maxes out at 300 pounds.

Also Read: Is Schwinn 430 Better Than Sole E25?

Real Customer Reviews

Here’s what actual users have to say about these two popular elliptical brands:

Sole Elliptical Reviews

The most common praise for Sole ellipticals includes:

• Incredibly smooth, quiet motion that mimics natural running
• Powerful incline adjustment makes workouts more challenging
• Sturdy build quality and excellent stability
• Helpful tech features like Bluetooth and device charging

The most common complaints mention:

• LCD console is dated looking on some models
• Not the most compact or space saving design

Bowflex Elliptical Reviews

Frequent positive feedback on Bowflex ellipticals includes:

• Dynamic resistance provides an intense, auto-adjusting workout
• Very small footprint is perfect for tight spaces
• Upper body arms provide a challenging total body workout
• Entertainment on high end touchscreen console

Common complaints include:

• Fixed 10 degree incline limits workout variety
• Shorter stride length isn’t ideal for taller users
• Some noise from resistance adjustment during workouts
• Less stability than Sole due to lighter weight

Also watch this video!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Also Read: Differences Between Yosuda And DMASUN Exercise Bike.

Conclusion

Now that we’ve compared these two top elliptical brands in depth, here are some key considerations in choosing between Sole Vs. Bowflex for your home gym:

Sole Is Best For:

• Shoppers focused on smooth, quiet operation
• Users who prefer adjustable power incline
• Heavier individuals up to 400 lbs
• Taller individuals who want a longer stride
• Anyone seeking robust warranty coverage

Bowflex Is Best For:

• Shoppers wanting a space saving compact size
• People prioritizing a total body workout
• Users who enjoy auto-adjusting dynamic resistance
• Anyone wanting immersive entertainment features
• Budgets under $1500

Both Sole and Bowflex make high performing ellipticals. Choose Sole for the quietest ride and excellent warranty. Select Bowflex for a space saving, total body challenge backed by a trusted brand. With either, focus on the features most important for your training needs and space.