With health and fitness so crucial to our wellbeing, it’s vital that we do what we can to workout as often as possible to stay in excellent shape both physically and mentally. However, gym memberships can be expensive, and it’s often hard to find the time to even get there in the first place. This is where the best step machines come in so you can work out in the comfort of your own home.
These workout machines provide a full-body workout to ensure you never skip leg day, back day, or chest day ever again. We’ve got a range of superb options for all levels that deliver convenience, high-performance, and excellent quality no matter what your fitness goals are for 2020 and beyond.
The Best Step Machine
1MaxiClimber The Original Patented Vertical Climber
Our top pick for the best step machine is the intuitive and feature-filled MaxiClimber The Original Patented Vertical Climber. This versatile machine is lightweight and easy to use to deliver a full-body workout like you’ve never experienced before.
It supports up to 240 pounds, and is low impact to reduce the risk of injury, while the companion fitness app allows you to track and store your progress to see which areas you need to improve on. It’s suitable for most heights, although the timer display may feel a little low for some, but this is a small price to pay for the convenience and performance you get from this vertical climber.
Versatile
Companion fitness app
Full-body workout
Low impact
Supports up to 240 pounds
90% assembled
- BrandMaxi Climber
- ModelMXC
- Weight33 pounds
Lightweight
Easy to use
Saves time going to the gym
Timer display may be too low for some users
2Sunny Health & Fitness Twist Stepper Step Machine
If you’re looking for a stepper machine that delivers superb value without missing out on high quality and excellent results, the Sunny Health & Fitness Twist Stepper Step Machine is perfect for those on a budget or short on space.
The LCD monitor is easy to read, while the twist action provides an effective workout, and the handlebars are there to keep you stable during more intense sessions. There are also non-slip pedals and adjustable stepping heights to help with your progress. It’s a little simple compared to our other picks, but for such a great price, you can’t complain.
LCD monitor
Handlebars
Twist action
No-slip pedals
Heavy duty steel construction
Supports up to 250 pounds
- BrandSunny Health & Fitness
- Model059
- Weight20 pounds
Adjustable stepping height
Low impact workout
Easy to use
Machine feels a little simple compared to other options
3Gazelle Freestyle Step Machine by Tony Little
If you’re looking to put the finishing touches to your home gym and want to do so with style, the Gazelle Freestyle by Tony Little is the ideal addition and final piece of the puzzle to ensure you have a gym that will kick your ass every time you step inside.
This piece of home gym equipment stable and secure, with non-slip pedals and foam handlebars to keep you in place, while the smooth transitions make it comfortable to use. It supports up to 300 pounds, which is one of the biggest capacities we’ve found, and if you ever need to create extra space, it folds flat for storage. It’s a little difficult to move because of its size, so hopefully you find a permanent home for it.
Extra-wide non-slip pedals
High-density foam handlebars
Folds flat
Fitness computer
Smooth transition
Supports up to 300 pounds
- BrandGazelle
- ModelGFRSTCAT
- Weight51.9 pounds
Low-impact workout
Provides full-body workout
Built-in thumb pulse monitor
Too heavy to move easily
4Sportsroyals Vertical Climber
If the Gazelle is only slightly out of your price range, the Sportsroyals Vertical Climber is another fantastic alternative that provides an excellent and satisfying workout for you. This upgraded design ensures better quality and include 5 adjustable height levels, an LCD display, and wear-resistant pulleys for durability.
It’s stable and provides a total body workout that’s as challenging as you want to make it. When you’re not using it, you can fold it down and tuck it away until next time, even if the thought of climbing onto it again terrifies you: that’s exactly the point. However, while there’s a lot to love, the movement is not as smooth as other options, so this could take some getting used to. For more must-have fitness gear for your home gym, check out our guide to the best exercise bikes.
Provides total body workout
Durable construction
5 adjustable height levels
Stable
LCD display
Supports up to 300 pounds
- BrandSportsroyals
- Weight35.4 pounds
Upgraded design
Easy to fold and store
Wear-resistant pulleys
Movement is not as smooth as other options
5Relife Rebuild Your Life Vertical Climber
The Relife Rebuild Your Life Vertical Climber comes with a durable frame and high-density foam handles that also includes adjustable resistance and low friction to guarantee a workout that’s worth it every single time.
There’s a one year parts warranty to deal with any issues, and it positions your center of gravity better than other options to help you feel more secure. Unfortunately, the monitor leaves a lot to be desired, but if you’ve got a pedometer or step counting app of your own, you can always use that in its place. You may also be interested in some of the best curl bars from our list, so check them out.
Durable frame
High-density foam handles
Adjustable resistance
Low friction
One-year warranty
Supports up to 260 pounds
- BrandRELIFE REBUILD YOUR LIFE
- Weight43 pounds
Upgraded design
Steady and stable
Full-body workout
Monitor is not reliable like other machines
6Gazelle Supreme by Tony Little
The Gazelle Supreme by Tony Little may be primarily targeted at those who know that they know what they’re doing, but even beginners can get a lot of benefit from such a machine that provides just about everything you could want from a workout setup.
It offers 10 exercises which are low impact but effective, and there are also 3 workout DVDs included in case you’re unsure of where to get started. The dual pivot system provides smooth movement, and it can support up to 300 pounds. However, you may have some trouble putting everything together, as the instructions are not the clearest we’ve encountered in our time, so good luck with that. For more amazing machines to help you shape your body, check out our guide to the best smith machines.
10 exercises
Low impact
3 workout DVDs included
Patented dual pivot system
Hydraulic resistance
Supports up to 300 pounds
- BrandGazelle
- ModelGSUPCAT
- Weight57.5 pounds
Easy to use
Sturdy
Foldable for easy storage
Difficult to put together due to vague instructions
7Sunny Health & Fitness Stair Stepper
With fitness tracking technology and a slim profile, the Sunny Health & Fitness Stair Stepper is a great value option for anyone who doesn’t have a lot of space in their living room or bedroom. It uses dual hydraulics, while the anti-slip foot plates keep users secure, and it can support a maximum of 220 pounds.
The step counter is not too accurate, but there are ways around this as we’ve mentioned above, and considering the LCD monitor is still easy to read, and there are adjustable settings to find the perfect workout for you, there’s still the chance you’ll see results. If you are a fan of running, you may like some of the best curved treadmills from our list, so check them out.
Convenient
Fitness tracking capability
Dual hydraulic
Adjustable settings
Patterned anti-slip plates
Supports up to 220 pounds
- BrandSunny Health & Fitness
- ModelSF-1115
- Weight29.8 pounds
Foldable
LCD monitor
Slim profile and lightweight
Step counter is not as accurate as standard pedometers
8Sunny Health & Fitness Twist Stepper
The Sunny Health & Fitness Twist Stepper is an excellent machine for anyone who needs a compact machine to slide under the desk or store in the corner when you’re not using it. While it focuses most on the thighs and buttocks, it can still provide a workout for shoulders and arms thanks to the included resistance bands.
It’s great for a low-stress and low-impact workout, and you can track your fitness as you go thanks to the onboard computer. The step height is adjustable, and the footplates protect you from slipping. We just wish it was a little less noisy on the downward step, as it could distract others, especially if you’re working out at the office.
Tones thighs and buttocks
Adjustable height
Heavy duty construction
Onboard computer
Slip-resistant foot plates
Supports up to 250 pounds
- BrandSunny Health & Fitness
- ModelNO. 045
- Weight20 pounds
Low-stress and impact
Resistance bands
Fitness progress tracking
A little noisy on downward step
9Doufit Stepper for Exercise Machine
Boasting durable construction and multiple modes, the Doufit Stepper for Exercise Machine is an excellent mid-range choice for anyone who really wants a stair stepper in their life, but don’t want to spend too much.
There are 2 resistance bands which work alongside the hydraulic rods to provide a comfortable, shock absorbent experience for all skill levels. It’s silent, and the texture footpads keep you secure in place. Despite this, though, there is only one tension level, so if you want to work harder, you must do that yourself. Our guide to the best dip stands features more excellent total-body workout machines, so check them out.
Durable construction
Adjustable
2 resistance bands
Multiple modes
Hydraulic rods
Supports up to 242 pounds
- BrandDoufit
- Weight23.8 pounds
Textured foot pads
Silent transmission pulley
Shock absorbing
Only one tension level
10BEOUZO Indoor Stair Stepper
The BEOUZO Indoor Stair Stepper is designed with comfort in mind without missing out on results-driven performance. The ergonomic design makes it easy on the feet, while the solid construction guarantees longevity and durability whether you use it all day long or merely once a week.
There are 4 exercise modes to choose from, and the multifunctional LCD screen displays a variety of stats and data to keep you in the loop. It’s also compact, making it perfect for placing under the desk, and you’ll burn more calories than cycling when using it. The only problem is that it’s too loud for our liking, which isn’t ideal. You may also be interested in some of the best free weights from our list, so check them out.
Ergonomically designed
Solid construction
Compact storage
Multi-function LCD display
Double hydraulic resistance
Supports up to 300 pounds
- BrandBEOUZO
- Weight27 pounds
Comfortable oversized foot pads
Burns more calories than cycling
4 exercise modes
Loud and could get annoying when using it
11Sunny Health & Fitness Adjustable Mini Stair Stepper
Sunny Health & Fitness Adjustable Mini Stair Stepper may be one of the cheaper options we’ve selected, but it still provides and effective workout for everyone no matter how experienced you are. The height adjustment knob gives you a variety of workout options, and the smooth twist action guarantees low-impact but high performance.
The onboard computer counts steps, calories burned, time elapsed, and more, and the sturdy construction supports up to 220 pounds. It also comes fully assembled so you can get going as soon as you take it out of the box, but the batteries may be dead on arrival, so prepare for that. Find more quality machines for your home gym by checking out our guide to the best elliptical machines.
Height adjustment knob
Smooth twist action
Oversized slip-proof pedals
Onboard digital computer
Sturdy heavy duty steel construction
Supports up to 220 pounds
- BrandSunny Health & Fitness
- ModelP8000
- Weight14.55 pounds
Arrives fully assembled
Affordable for home or office workout
Smooth motion
Battery may be dead on arrival
12Exerpeutic Exerwork 850 Mini Stepper
The Exerpeutic Exerwork 850 Mini Stepper may look a little basic compared to other machines in the same price range, but with the MyFitnessCloud App and Bluetooth connectivity, you’re getting a step machine for the 21st century and beyond.
Here, you can track and record progress with a flat step motion and hydraulic air piston system to provide a comfortable but effective experience. It supports up to 250 pounds, and you can adjust the intensity once one level gets too easy for you. It’s compact, but it is a lot heavier than it looks, so take care when shifting it from room to room. For more cool fitness gear, check out our reviews of the best ab machines.
MyFitnessCloud App connectivity with Bluetooth Smart Cloud
Flat step motion
10” step height
LCD display
Hydraulic air piston system
Supports up to 250 pounds
- BrandExerpeutic
- Model7420
- Weight2.2 pounds
Large anti-slip pedals
Compact design
Adjustable workout intensity
A lot heavier than it looks and may be difficult to move
13PEXMOR Upgraded Vertical Climber
Our final pick for the best step machine is the mighty and surprisingly affordable PEXMOR Upgraded Vertical Climber. This machine delivers a full-body workout and comes with 5 adjustable heights to target specific areas and appeal to a range of users.
There’s an LCD display for tracking although this could do with some improvement, and its versatile application is perfect for many sports and training. It can also support up to 350 pounds, which is the biggest capacity we’ve selected. The machine is easy to assemble, and it’s quiet, too, so you won’t wake the house when getting your midnight workout in. An ideal fitness gift for any workout enthusiast.
Full-body workout
5 adjustable heights
LCD display
Quick-release folding
Versatile application
Supports up to 350 pounds
- BrandPEXMOR
- Weight43.5 pounds
Necessary assembly tool included
Quiet operation
Smooth motion
LCD display could do with some improvement
Step Machines Buying Guide
Features To Look For In Step Machines
Before you finalize your choice for the best step machine to bring into your home gym, check out these crucial key features to look for to ensure you find the right one for you.
Weight Capacity - The weight capacity will help you determine the maximum weight each machine can handle, and these range from about 200 pounds to 350 pounds. While the machines are mostly sturdy, it’s likely not worth risking putting too much weight on them, especially if they are on the cheaper end of the scale.
Materials - Solid steel construction ensures durability, while rubber foot pads keep your feet secure when steeping. Leser material put you and others in danger of an injury, so be sure to look out for materials that you trust.
Adjustability - If you want to hit your fitness goals, adjustability in your step machine is crucial. This helps you gauge how far you’ve come and ensures you get the most from your stepper. Without adjustment, you risk stagnating, and even if you don’t want to get ripped, it’s important to still raise the tension levels when one becomes too easy.
Stability - The stability of the machine ensures a safe and enjoyable workout, so having a machine with a solid and secure base will ensure you manage to get through your workout with any injuries or damage your surroundings. Even weight distribution is a must, and it will make everything feel more comfortable and your movements more natural.
Fitness Tracking - Machines with fitness tracking are a great way to check your progress and are superb for anyone keeping a workout diary. Most machines will have fitness tracking, while others will use a Bluetooth app to transfer data. However, be careful to look out for a machine with reliable fitness tracking, and if you’re not sure, use your phone to double check your stats/
Smoothness - Part of the great things about step machines is that they are low impact, which reduces strain and pressure on joints to reduce the chance of injury or ligament damage. This low impact is directly correlated to the smoothness of the machine. The less smooth, the more pressure you’ll put on your joints, which won’t be ideal for long workouts.
Size - Different needs demand different sized step machines. If you’re looking for a leg workout to do under the desk at the office, then there’s no need for a large vertical climber. If you want a full-body workout, then you’ll need a big machine to do so. It’s all about your needs and goals to find the right size for you, but be sure to consider if it will fit in the workout area and if you can store it easily when not in use.
Portability - While you’ll probably not need to move your step machine too much, the portability is still important, especially if your home gym is more of a make-shift workout area. A portable machine makes it easier to store, so if you want to take it to work or move house, it is easy to transport. Larger machines are often foldable to make portability more manageable.
Warranty - You’ll find different warranty periods across different brands, so consider how these warranties benefit you and how they align with the price tag. If a machine seems too cheap to be true, it’s likely because there is no warranty. Conversely, an expensive machine means you’ll likely get a better warranty.
Types Of Step Machines
While all step machines can be useful, there are different types to target different areas depending on your goals. Here are the types of step machines you’ll encounter.
Stair Steppers - Stair steppers are like mini elliptical machines and work by you creating the motion yourself and working out using momentum. They help improve endurance and also build muscles around the legs. Most will offer handles for stability, along with oversized foot pads to keep you grounded.
Twist Steppers - Twist steppers are excellent for thigh workouts and some machines come with resistance bands to add an extra dimension to your workout. They are smaller than stair steppers and you can use them at home or under the desk at work to keep you working out throughout the day discreetly.
Vertical Climbers - Vertical climbers are a combination of several machines designed to deliver a full-body workout and target different muscle groups all at the same time. They are excellent for building arm and shoulder strength but also workout the calves and thighs. A lot of climbers use these machines to improve technique but you can also see benefits even if you don’t enjoy scaling rocks. They are large but will fold down for easy storage.
Sources:
- How to Choose the Best Stepper for your Exercise Program - Stepper Machine Reviews
- Tips for Using a Step Machine or Stepper - Real Buzz