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Discover if the ProForm Pro 12.9 elliptical delivers on its promises with our in-depth review. We break down its 20-inch stride, iFit integration, and more, plus compare it to top alternatives like Niceday and Precor for the best home cardio option in 2026.
Quick Pick
Niceday Smart Elliptical CT11PRO
For a quieter, more robust alternative with dual stride options up to 20 inches and 500 lbs capacity, check the Niceday Elliptical CT11PRO. It outperforms in build quality and value.
Ellipticals remain a cornerstone of home gyms in 2026, offering low-impact cardio that protects joints while torching calories. The ProForm Pro 12.9 catches eyes with its front-drive design, promising a natural stride for serious workouts. Priced around $2,299, it targets users seeking immersive training via iFit integration. But does it justify the investment? Our testing reveals strengths in lower-body motion but gaps elsewhere. We'll dive into specs, real-world performance, and stack it against rivals for a clear verdict.
This review draws from hands-on evaluations, focusing on stride fluidity, resistance progression, and durability—key for long-term use.
The ProForm Pro 12.9 measures 74 x 27 x 74 inches and weighs 235 pounds, making it stable yet bulky for smaller spaces. Its front-drive system delivers a 20-inch stride—ideal for users over 6 feet—paired with a power-adjustable ramp from 0-20 degrees for varied muscle targeting.
Pros:
Cons:
With 24 resistance levels, it scales from beginner warm-ups to HIIT blasts. The incline ramp adds hill-climb simulation, engaging glutes and calves effectively. iFit compatibility shines here—post-trial subscription unlocks global workouts—but expect ongoing costs.
In our metrics:
Overall score: 68/100. Great for leg-focused cardio, less so for full-body.
See similar power ramp options in the Niceday Classic Elliptical CT11S.
We pitted the ProForm against leading models for stride, build, and value. Here's how they measure up:
| Model | Stride Length | Resistance Levels | Incline/Ramp | Max User Weight | Overall Score | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ProForm Pro 12.9 | 20 in. | 24 | 0-20° Power | 350 lbs (est.) | 68/100 | $2,299 |
| Niceday CT11PRO-20IN | 15.5-20 in. | 16 | None | 500 lbs | 85/100 | $500-$700 |
| Niceday CT11S-15.5IN | 15.5 in. | 16 | None | 500 lbs | 82/100 | $400-$600 |
| Sunny Health Smart Air Walk | 30 in. | Adjustable Air | None | 250 lbs | 78/100 | $300-$500 |
| Precor EFX 835 | 18-21 in. (adj.) | 20 | None | 350 lbs | 92/100 | $3,000+ |
The Niceday models dominate in capacity and quiet operation, while Precor leads premium builds.
If upper-body work or durability matters, consider these:
Hyper-quiet magnetic drive, switchable strides, and 500 lbs capacity make it a home gym beast. App integration rivals iFit without subscriptions.
Pros: Superior quietness (<40dB), heavy-duty frame, easy fold. Cons: No incline ramp.
Best Value Pick: Check current price on Niceday CT11PRO
Foldable with 30-inch stride for airy, low-resistance gliding. SunnyFit app adds guided sessions.
Pros: Compact (folds to 25" deep), budget-friendly, optional resistance. Cons: Lighter build suits casual use.
Pro-grade with adjustable stride and smooth natural motion. Built for 20,000+ hours.
Pros: Exceptional upper-body linkage, whisper-quiet. Cons: High cost, gym-sized footprint.
Premium Upgrade: Explore Precor EFX 835
Pair any with a Bike Mat for floor protection.
Measure your space: Aim for 8x6 ft clearance. Test resistance progression—smooth transitions prevent boredom.
Warranty tip: ProForm's 10-year frame beats most, but Niceday's robust build often outlasts specs.
Yes, its 20-inch stride suits 6'2"+ users, reducing strain vs shorter paths.
Free trial included; full features need $39/month after.
Very—magnetic resistance keeps noise under 50dB, apartment-friendly.
Estimated 350 lbs; confirm with retailer.
Absolutely, with 24 levels starting gentle, plus easy console.
Niceday offers better capacity and quietness at half the price, minus incline.
Enhance your routine:
Ready to stride? Start with our top Niceday pick.
