The 6 Best Affordable Stair Climbers of 2024, According to Our Experts

When targeting your cardio training, the best stair climbers can be great for generating intense workouts in a short amount of time. According to studies, a 185-pound athlete can burn up to 252 calories in 30 minutes on a stair climber — equivalent to a vigorous strength-training session. (1) The best affordable stair climbers can deliver the same training potential without totally emptying your wallet. 

Stair-stepping machines can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s important to consider a bevy of factors beyond the price tag when searching for your ideal workout machine. To help you get a leg up on your journey, we’ve gotten hands-on with a handful of top silhouettes and consulted with our in-house team of experts to compile this guide to our favorite affordable stair climbers on the market today.

The 6 Best Affordable Stair Climbers of 2024

• Best Affordable Stair Climber Overall: NordicTrack FS10i
• Best Compact Affordable Stair Climber: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-S0978
• Best Premium Affordable Stair Climber: CLMBR Connected 02
• Best Budget Affordable Stair Climber: MaxiClimber Vertical Climber
• Best Affordable Stair Climber for Streaming: BowFlex Max Trainer M9
• Best Affordable Stair Climber Elliptical Hybrid: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911

How We Tested and Chose the Best Affordable Stair Climbers

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To make our list of the best affordable stair climbers, we got hands-on with 22 different equipment silhouettes from top brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) to determine our top picks. Below are some of the categories and components we looked at to make our list.

For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology.

• Price: Finding an “affordable” stair climber can be subjective from budget to budget. We did our best to find silhouettes that hovered around the average $1,450 price tag we’ve associated with high-quality cardio machines, knowing that tech features, durability, available resistance, and other factors can greatly influence the final cost of each product.
• Product Dimensions: Any piece of the best home gym equipment — stair climber, squat rack, or another silhouette — can only be useful if it actually fits within your space. We made sure to include all the available product dimensions for each chosen stepper, highlighting which profiles we feel are more compact and space-friendly than others.
• Stepping Pattern: According to Kate Meier, BarBend editorial team member and our expert reviewer, you need to move in multiple planes of motion in order to improve your health. As such, we highlighted a variety of stair climbers that feature a more upright stepping motion akin to climbing a flight of stairs, placing emphasis on profiles that combined strides of other machines, like ellipticals or treadmills.
• Available Resistance: Climbing steps for reps can be a calorie-burning effort in itself, but it can be beneficial to seek out a machine that makes ascending each level more of a challenge. Where relevant, we made note of the available resistances strewn across each machine in order to outline which profiles we felt were better suited for more intense training regimens and which were better kept for low-impact workouts.

[Related: The Best Budget Home Gym Equipment]

Best Affordable Stair Climber Overall: NordicTrack FS10i

While the near-$2,000 price tag of the NordicTrack FS10i may not scream “affordable,” we think it’s one of the best values in the category thanks to its adjustable stride, which essentially combines three machines into one — a stair stepper, elliptical, and treadmill. Plus, we rated the adjustability at 4 out of 5 since changing between movements is automatically toggled during motion.

“While it’s a learned skill set to swap between stepping and gliding mid-workout,” said our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, “I felt I could master it after just a few sessions. I’d use this FS10i for stepping and elliptical work more than running though, as it can be awkward to jog without ever lifting your feet from the oversized pedals.”

Like other NordicTrack equipment, the FS10i is compatible with the iFIT training platform, which offers over 17,000 on-demand workouts across multiple fitness disciplines. Also, the iFIT integration brings AutoAdjust technology to your training — when following along with a trainer-led session, the machine can automatically toggle your resistance and incline in-step with your on-screen instructors.

The FS10i features long, swinging handlebars attached to each leg for added upper-body engagement during training. However, our tester did note they would’ve appreciated a static set of handlebars at the center for less-intense workouts.

From a durability standpoint, our tester rated the FS10i at 5 out of 5. “There was no sense of wobbliness or instability while I tested this cardio machine, and it feels really well-built,” they added. However, this stable makeup does compromise the portability. We scored the FS10i at 3.75 out of 5 for the category given its 284-pound weight and somewhat awkward profile that’s less maneuverable than other steppers we’ve tried.

We also recommend having ample room to house this machine given the movement range of the arms. You don’t want to continuously hit a wall or other structure during training, so it may be best to have this in a dedicated training room over a side corner of your office or living room.

Read our full NordicTrack FS10i Review.

Best Compact Affordable Stair Climber: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-S0978

Climbing machines don’t need to be monstrous silhouettes that consume an entire room. The best mini stair steppers shrink down their footprints closer to that of a milk crate than a standard sofa, including the SF-0978 from Sunny Health and Fitness. With just a 1.45-square-foot footprint and a price tag below $90, it’s easily one of our favorite compact profiles from the category.

Our tester rated the portability and footprint of the SF-0978 at 4 out of 5, stating, “I like how the entire frame is lightweight enough for easier storage in-between workouts. Plus, the resistance bands for upper-body work are removable, so you can easily wrap those up and tuck them away after your sessions.”

The SF-0978 also earned a 3.5 out of 5 for ergonomics thanks to a front toggle that can change your stepping range of motion. The foot pedals are also oversized with a rubber texture for added traction. However, we do caution those with balance issues search for a Sunny Health and Fitness model with upright handlebars — there are no added stabilizing components across this design.

From a build perspective, we rated the SF-0978 at 2 out of 5 given its lower weight capacity. Larger athletes may find the 220-pound rating to be too low for their needs. 

Plus, we noticed that, according to the user manual, the hydraulic shocks that support your stepping intensity can only be used in 15-minute clips. Longer training sessions can lead to overheating and potential damage, so if you’re an individual that prefers longer, grueling workouts, it may be best to pay a little more for a more resilient structure.

Best Premium Affordable Stair Climber: CLMBR Connected 02

If you’re looking for a stair climber with all the bells and whistles, the CLMBR Connected 02 may be just the ticket. Yes, the near-$4,000 price tag may be off-putting to some budgets (trust us, it really taxed our definition of “affordable”) but the included tech and full-body training experience were enough to have us include it in this guide.

Unlike other stair steppers that just focus on the lower body, the CLMBR Connected 02 parcels its 11 resistance levels across both the pedals and handlebars. This can be great for creating an engaging workout experience that takes you out of the more basic motion planes of, say, treadmills, rowing machines, or ellipticals.

We rated the tech capabilities at 5 out of 5 thanks to the CLMBR Connected 02’s integrated 21.5-inch HD touchscreen. You can pair to the CLMBR app (subscription sold separately) for trainer-led workouts, and the display features Bluetooth connectivity so you can sync your headphones, heart rate monitor, or fitness tracker to the machine.

“I also like that you can still operate the CLMBR in manual mode if a CLMBR app subscription is out of your budget,” added our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor. “You can still generate a worthwhile workout experience, although I will say the interactive programming was worth the $39.99 monthly charge.”

Outside of the higher price point, the main drawback we found with the CLMBR Connected 02 was the warranty coverage, which we rated at 3.5 out of 5. In our experience, most high-end cardio machines offer at least 10- or 15-year support for the frame, if not more, so a one-year coverage plan is definitely below the standard.

Still, though, we were happy with the durability of the machine, as it felt extremely sturdy during trials. We scored the durability at 4.5 out of 5 and foresee minimal issues with the extruded aluminum framing.

Read our full CLMBR Connected 02 Review.

Best Budget Affordable Stair Climber: MaxiClimber Vertical Climber

While the term “affordable” can mean many things to different individuals, we can all agree that there’s perks to finding budget-friendly cardio equipment. With its sub-$300 price tag, easy assembly, and worthwhile workout potential, the MaxiClimber Vertical Climber is our pick for wallet-conscious athletes looking for an affordable exercise machine.

The MaxiClimber is a bare-bones piece of equipment in that you essentially have a frame, two handles, and two pedals. Resistance is determined by your bodyweight, so there aren’t any extra toggles to decipher mid-training. 

A small LCD display at the center of the console showcases steps taken and calories burned, nothing more. Sure, some athletes may want a stair climber compatible with the best fitness apps, but for less than $300, we’re willing to make that sacrifice.

The MaxiClimber also stands out given its compact footprint and foldable frame. We scored the dimensions at 5 out of 5 thanks to its foldable design and 33-pound weight. It can be easily maneuvered into position or into a closet once you’re done sweating — other heavy machines may require assistance in order to rearrange your training space.

We rated our overall workout experience at 3 out of 5. “I honestly think that most athletes can get by with the bodyweight resistance featured on this MaxiClimber,” noted our tester. “However, the lower weight capacity and 6’2” height limit may be too small for taller athletes.”

From a durability perspective, we also scored the MaxiClimber at 2 out of 5. Yes, the frame is stable enough to support athletes up to 240 pounds, but there are a handful of plastic components that can become damaged and worn through extended use. 

Plus, we found that there is no bumper mechanism at the base of the pedal track, meaning you’ll need to pay close attention to how intense you step down while training if you want to protect this stepper’s integrity over time.

Read our full MaxiClimber Vertical Climber Review.

Best Affordable Stair Climber for Streaming: BowFlex Max Trainer M9

Stair climbing, while enjoyable, can get monotonous at times, especially if you aren’t set up with trainer-led courses or entertaining media in front of you. Thankfully, many of the best cardio machines come with built-in displays capable of streaming such services. For our money, the BowFlex Max Trainer M9 is one of the best in the category.

This climber is integrated with JRNY, a fitness app that offers both on-demand training and streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more (though you’ll need your own subscriptions). 

In terms of the tech capabilities, I’d rate the Max Trainer M9 at 4 out of 5. The service has a good array of trainer-led workouts that make the sessions all the more enjoyable, and I do appreciate how JRNY is compatible with apps like Netflix and Hulu for more streamlined entertainment. Other platforms only offer training-based programming, so if you want to take in your favorite series or movie, you’d need to set up in front of your television.

However, I have had some experiences with lagging or glitchy interfaces. You can still get to where you want to go, but the process is less seamless than other silhouettes I’ve tried, including many of the best treadmills with screens.

The Max Trainer M9 also earns some praise given its vertical orientation. In total, you’ll need 16.36 square feet of space to properly house this profile, which is less than your standard two-seater sofa. (2) We rated the footprint and portability at 5 out of 5, too, given the M9’s simple maneuverability — just lift up the back base and wheel the machine into position.

As a final note, I’d recommend placing this elliptical/stair climber machine in an area that doesn’t need to be completely quiet. The flywheel can be noisy at times, which may be a detriment to those living with other roommates or children.

Best Affordable Stair Climber Elliptical Hybrid: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911

If you take any time searching for a dedicated stair stepping machine, you’ll likely encounter a slew of elliptical/stepper hybrid models that feature a middle-ground motion plane. These machines can be excellent for creating efficient, low-impact workouts, and at the “affordable” range, the SF-E3911 from Sunny Health and Fitness is tough to beat.

I’ve used this stepper/elliptical hybrid in the past and view it as a worthwhile piece of gym equipment, especially for those training in tighter quarters. I rated the overall footprint at 4.5 out of 5 thanks to its compact dimensions and seamless maneuverability. You can easily wheel this SF-E3911 into position in front of your television and store it neatly in a corner when training isn’t top of mind.

[Related: Best Ellipticals for Small Spaces]

From a tech perspective, the SF-E3911 earned a 3 out of 5 given its basic LCD console and lack of preset programming. In essence, you’re constantly training in manual mode, so be sure to keep your willpower in-check if you’re looking to turn to this exercise equipment each day across your fitness journey. 

That said, the SF-E3911 does feature a device holder across the center console, so streaming trainer-led sessions isn’t completely out of the question with this silhouette.

I’d also score the durability at 3.5 out of 5. Granted, I could easily accomplish my intended sessions with this profile, but you do notice some unwanted sway when trying to tackle high-intensity intervals. Plus, the weight capacity is listed at 220 pounds — a lower rating than other stair climbers we’ve tested in the past.

Still, though, I think there’s plenty of value, which I scored at 4 out of 5, in this SF-E3911 silhouette if you take it at face value. Sure, this brand isn’t known for tech-heavy silhouettes, but if you’re just looking for an efficient machine that can help you reach your targeted calorie burn day in and day out, it can easily suffice.

[Related: Sunny Health and Fitness Exercise Bike Review]

Benefits of Affordable Stair Climbers

According to Kate Meier, BarBend editorial team member and our expert reviewer, “Stair climbers are exceptional at boosting your heart rate, increasing muscular endurance in the lower body, and even potentially building some strength in the legs. Even a short, 10-minute workout on a stair climber can send your heart rate soaring.” 

Regardless of price point, below are some of our favorite benefits associated with this low-impact cardio workout discipline as it relates to your personal fitness goals and aspirations.

• Emphasis on Lower-Body Training: While there is room for stair climbers to engage upper-body muscle groups in motion, the main emphasis lies in targeting the glutes, hamstrings, calves, and quads. This can be a great and refreshing way to hit your legs on a machine that’s more compact than a treadmill or elliptical.
• Approachable for All Fitness Levels: We all walk up and down steps each day, so taking that movement into the gym can be a far more approachable endeavor than, say, asking a beginner athlete to perform certain mileage splits atop a treadmill or maintain a certain wattage across an entire rowing machine session. Meier states, “Stair climbers are great for anyone looking to get an intense workout in a short amount of time.”
• Potential for HIIT Training: While stair climbers are inherently low impact given that your feet never leave their respective platforms, you can still generate a gauntlet of HIIT sessions that can be excellent for ramping up your heart rate. For an added dose of intensity, it can be beneficial to opt for a stair climber with adjustable resistance levels.

How Much Do Affordable Stair Climbers Cost?

When it comes to “affordable” stair climbers, the price range can be all over the place given that “affordable” can be subjective to your personal budget. The price can also be influenced by the amount of tech features, stride capabilities, and durability of the machines themselves. For this particular round-up, the average price sits at roughly $1,450, which we believe is a good starting point for those interested in purchasing any new fitness equipment. Read below to compare the prices of each affordable stair climber included in this guide.

Best Affordable Stair Climber Overall	NordicTrack FS10i	$1,999
Best Compact Affordable Stair Climber	Sunny Health & Fitness SF-S0978	$89.99
Best Premium Affordable Stair Climber	CLMBR Connected 02	$3,995
Best Budget Affordable Stair Climber	MaxiClimber Vertical Climber	$299
Best Affordable Stair Climber for Streaming	BowFlex Max Trainer M9	$1,999.99
Best Affordable Stair Climber Elliptical Hybrid	Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E3911	$379.99

What to Consider Before Buying an Affordable Stair Climber

As with any piece of home gym equipment, there are multiple layers to your purchasing process with affordable stair climbers. Of course, price is a major factor to consider, but you should also ensure that your chosen profile can support your frame, fitness goals, and other wants and needs. 

After all, Kate Meier, BarBend editorial team member and our expert reviewer, states, “A machine is only good if you’ll use it.” Below are some of the main components we recommend thinking through when searching for that ideal affordable stair climber.

Product Dimensions

There’s no sense in purchasing a stair-stepping machine if it can’t fit within your available space. In addition to the actual footprint of the machine (dimensions are commonly listed on the individual product page,) you should also plan for some extra room around the profile itself to allow for easier entry and exit as well as any arm swing that needs to occur in a given step motion.

Typically, we’ve found that cheaper stair climbers come with more compact dimensions, but it’s always a good rule of thumb to take some measurements of your available floor space and adjust your search in relation to those metrics.

If you’re struggling to picture a stepping machine in your home gym, a quick way to determine whether you have enough room is to imagine the exercise equipment as a piece of furniture. For example, your standard loveseat measures 58 inches long by 38 inches wide, or 15.31 square feet. (2) If you can fit a loveseat in your training area without much reconfiguring, you can likely fit a stepper in the same location.

Height and Weight Capacities

A machine that’s too small or weak for your frame likely won’t get the use it deserves. As such, finding a stair climber with a durable enough weight capacity is an absolute must, especially if you plan on using the profile on a regular basis. On average, most stair climbers can support up to 280 pounds, with larger, more expensive profiles capable of 300 pounds or more. Set the weight rating against your own weight to ensure a machine can support your training efficiently.

It can also be beneficial to look at any height capacities listed for your stair climber. These metrics are typically listed on dedicated climbers that feature sliding rails for your hands in addition to the foot pedals. Elliptical-stepper hybrids that engage your upper body but don’t see you reaching upward rarely carry height ratings, so if you’re interested in this particular profile, you won’t need to worry about height as much.

Functionality

When thinking of your stair climber’s functionality, you’re looking at the stepping pattern of the machine. Stair climbers typically fall into three camps: where your motion is literally as if you’re climbing a flight of stairs; where your motion is more rock-climbing-esque with total-body engagement; and where your motion is similar to the gliding stroke of an elliptical.

While there’s no right or wrong answer here — calories and high-intensity workouts are achievable with any of the three designs — you will need to think about which motion plane interests you most, and which you’d likely want to use most often in a given routine.

If you’re interested in the gliding elliptical-stepper motion, we recommend looking at one of the best compact ellipticals over lengthier, traditional silhouettes. The compact design of these machines is typically made possible through a vertical orientation, which gives each step that stair-climbing feel.

Available Resistance Levels

Having a stair climber with multiple resistance levels can be helpful when trying to up the ante every now and again in training. Added resistance can also be a vital must-have if you’re looking to use your stepper for muscle gain across your lower body. 

“This wouldn’t be in the same way you could build muscle strength and power through doing loaded exercises like squats,” adds Meier, “But you may still feel stronger in your legs when it comes specifically to climbing movements like walking uphill or climbing stairs.”

Price

Stair climbers can vary greatly in price depending on their tech features and overall footprint. Logically, a larger machine will cost more than a compact under-desk elliptical, right? If you’re looking for an “affordable” stair climber, though, we recommend starting at prices around $1,450 — the average cost we determined from testing. Of course, you can find silhouettes more or less than this median number, but that’s where your personal definition of “affordable” comes in.

Affordable Stair Climber FAQs

References

1. Calories burned in 30 minutes of leisure and routine activities. Harvard Health. (2021, March 8). https://www.health.harvard.edu/diet-and-weight-loss/calories-burned-in-30-minutes-for-people-of-three-different-weights
2. Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/