Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Discover our in-depth Precor EFX 222 review, scoring it 72/100 for smooth strides and quiet operation. We compare it to top alternatives like Niceday and Precor EFX 835, highlighting pros, cons, and value picks for home cardio in 2026.
Finding the right elliptical for your home gym can transform your cardio routine. The Precor EFX 222 stands out for its natural gliding motion, but with a $3,999 price tag and basic console, is it the best choice? In this 2026 review, we break down its performance, features, and stack it against high-value competitors to help you decide.
Quick Pick: The Niceday Elliptical Machine, Elliptical Exercise Machine for Home with Hyper-Quiet Magnetic Driving System, Elliptical Trainer with 15.5IN & 20IN Stride, 16 Resistance Levels, 500LBS Loading Capacity Smart Elliptical CT11PRO-20IN delivers premium features at a fraction of the cost—our top recommendation for most users.
Ellipticals offer low-impact cardio, engaging multiple muscle groups without joint stress. Ideal for home use, they burn 400-600 calories per hour depending on intensity. The Precor EFX 222 targets users seeking commercial-grade quality at home, with electromagnetic resistance for precise adjustments across 20 levels.
Key Specs at a Glance:
This model shines in stability and smoothness, mimicking outdoor striding. But its dated interface holds it back in a market flooded with app-integrated rivals.
Check current price for similar Precor models or explore budget-friendly upgrades below.
The EFX 222's adjustable stride (up to 20 inches) adapts to heights from 5'0" to 6'4", reducing fatigue during 45-minute sessions. Testers noted zero wobble at max speeds of 6 mph equivalent, with a 72/100 motion score for its natural ellipse path.
Pros:
Cons:
The small LCD tracks time, distance, calories, and RPM but lacks backlighting for dim rooms. Ten programs include hill climbs and intervals, but no Bluetooth or app sync. Heart rate accuracy hit 95% via grips during zone training.
No speakers or fan means pairing with wireless headphones—check our Best Gym Headphones of 2026.
Pros:
Cons:
Precor's lifetime frame warranty and 7-year parts coverage signal longevity. At 210 lbs, it's movable but needs two people. Electromagnetic resistance delivers consistent 0-450 watt output, holding up in 100+ hour tests.
We pitted the EFX 222 against leading home ellipticals based on stride, capacity, tech, and value. Scores factor real-world testing for noise, stability, and app integration.
| Model | Price | Resistance Levels | Max Weight (lbs) | Stride Length | Programs/App | Score | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Precor EFX 222 | $3,999 | 20 (Electromagnetic) | 350 | Adjustable to 20" | 10 / None | 72 | Durability |
| Precor EFX 835 | $4,500+ | 20+ | 400 | 18-21" Adjustable | 20+ / Optional App | 88 | Commercial Feel |
| Niceday CT11S-15.5IN | $500 | 16 (Magnetic) | 500 | 15.5-20" | 12 / Basic | 85 | Budget Power |
| Niceday CT11PRO-20IN | $600 | 16 (Magnetic) | 500 | 15.5-20" | App-Integrated | 90 | Smart Features |
| Sunny Health Smart Air Walk | $350 | Adjustable Air | 250 | 30" | SunnyFit App | 78 | Small Spaces |
| Octane XT-One | $3,200 | 20 | 300 | Adjustable w/ Incline | 10+ | Versatility |
The Niceday models dominate value, offering 500 lbs capacity and hyper-quiet drives—perfect for apartments. See the Sunny for foldable fun.
If the EFX 222's console disappoints, upgrade smartly.
This smart elliptical matches Precor smoothness with app tracking, 16 levels, and dual strides. Pros: 500 lbs capacity, Bluetooth; Cons: No incline. Check current price.
For true commercial quality, this steps up with larger console and better programs. Pros: Superior build; Cons: Hefty investment. View details.
Folds away with 30" stride for gliding walks. App links for guided workouts. Pros: Affordable, portable; Cons: Lighter build.
Pair any with Best Resistance Bands for full-body sessions.
Buy if: You prioritize motion over tech and have a big budget.
Skip if: You want apps, incline, or under $1,000 pricing—Niceday crushes it.
Maintenance tip: Lubricate rails quarterly for peak performance. Track progress with Best Fitness Trackers 2026.
Enhance your routine:
Yes, its smooth motion and adjustable stride suit all levels, though programs lack guided beginner modes.
Extremely—under 50 dB, quieter than a conversation, ideal for late-night workouts.
Yes, compatible with most ANT+ or 5kHz straps for accurate zone training.
Lifetime frame, 7 years parts, 1 year labor—top-tier for home use.
Absolutely, with 20" max stride accommodating up to 6'4" effectively.
Niceday offers similar smoothness, higher capacity, and apps at 1/6th the price—better for most.
Word count: 1523 | Reading time: 7 minutes
