Dripex Under Desk Elliptical Under-Desk Mini
A practical cross trainer (under-desk mini elliptical) for low-impact home cardio.
The Best Cross Trainers in the UK (2026)
A cross trainer (elliptical) gives you effective, low-impact cardio at home - working your legs and, on full machines, your arms together in a smooth striding motion that's gentle on the joints. From full standing ellipticals to compact under-desk pedal units, this guide explains what matters, then lists our top picks.
Quick answer
For a full home workout, a magnetic elliptical from Dripex, JLL, Viavito or MERACH is the sweet spot - smooth, quiet and adjustable. For gentle movement in a small space or at a desk, an under-desk mini elliptical works. Look for smooth magnetic resistance with plenty of levels, a stride length that suits your height, and a max user weight with room to spare.
What to look for
Decide between a full standing elliptical (a proper cardio session) and an under-desk mini (gentle seated movement). Then check the resistance (magnetic is smooth and quiet, more levels give more range), the flywheel weight (heavier is smoother), the stride length against your height, the console and any app features, plus the footprint and max user weight for a safe, comfortable fit.
How we pick
We rate cross trainers on smoothness and resistance range, stride comfort, build and max user weight, console and features, and value - across full machines and under-desk units. Every pick is a genuine elliptical cross-trainer machine - not a cross-training shoe.
Our top picks
#1
#2 
Dripex Under Desk Elliptical
A practical cross trainer (under-desk mini elliptical) for low-impact home cardio.
#3 
Dripex Elliptical Cross Trainer
A practical cross trainer (elliptical cross trainer, magnetic, 16 resistance levels) for low-impact home cardio.
#4 
MERACH Long Stride Cross Trainer
A practical cross trainer (elliptical cross trainer, magnetic, 16 resistance levels) for low-impact home cardio.
#5 
TODO Mini Under Desk Elliptical
A practical cross trainer (under-desk mini elliptical) for low-impact home cardio.
#6 
Amonax Under Desk Elliptical
A practical cross trainer (under-desk mini elliptical) for low-impact home cardio.
#7 
Dripex Cross Trainer Elliptical
A practical cross trainer (elliptical cross trainer, magnetic resistance) for low-impact home cardio.
#8 
THERUN Elliptical Cross Trainer
A practical cross trainer (elliptical cross trainer, magnetic, 16 resistance levels) for low-impact home cardio.
#9 
Aeriflo S100 Magnetic Elliptical
A practical cross trainer (elliptical cross trainer, magnetic, 16 resistance levels) for low-impact home cardio.
#10 
Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Air Walker
A practical cross trainer (air walker / glider) for low-impact home cardio.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best cross trainer?
For most home users, a smooth magnetic elliptical from Dripex, JLL, Viavito or MERACH offers the best balance of workout, quietness and value. For a small space or desk use, an under-desk mini elliptical suits. The best one depends on your space, budget and whether you want a full workout or gentle movement.
Are cross trainers good exercise?
Yes - a cross trainer gives an effective, low-impact cardio workout that raises your heart rate and burns calories while being gentle on the joints, unlike running. Full machines work the arms and legs together for a whole-body session. Used regularly, a cross trainer builds cardiovascular fitness and supports weight management.
Bottom line
Our top pick is the Dripex Under Desk Elliptical Under-Desk Mini (our score 9.6/10) - A practical cross trainer (under-desk mini elliptical) for low-impact home cardio..