If you love working out, both in the gym and home, you’ve probably heard about ProFrom before. Yes, it’s because ProForm is one of the best elliptical manufacturers in the world. If you’re not into fitness and you have no idea what an elliptical is, let us explain to you.
An elliptical is an exercise machine used to walk or run, similar to a treadmill. However, unlike treadmills, an elliptical machine doesn’t cause an excessive pressure to the joints. It means that when using an elliptical machine, you are much less likely to catch an injury than when you use a treadmill.
Elliptical machines were invented by Precor in the 90s and since has become one of the most popular running machines in the world. Today, we’re going to review two elliptical machines from ProForm, which are ProForm 150i and ProForm 250i. We’re going to compare the two machines and give you an idea of which machine is more suited for you.
ProForm 150i Review
ProForm 150i is priced at $331.03 on Amazon and it currently ranks #32 in Amazon’s Elliptical Training Machines Best Sellers Rank. It comes with features such as Bluetooth connectivity, 12 resistance levels, iPod compatible audio, large LCD display, 12 workout apps, and EKG heart rate monitor. Read also: ProForm 600i vs 800i
This machine is still a pretty new model because it was released back in 2016. It weighs in at 127 pounds and has a dimension of 46 x 26 x 18 inches. Though it doesn’t have the size and sturdiness of a gym-grade elliptical machine, ProForm 150i is a pretty sturdy machine for home use.
Like most elliptical machines with a magnetic resistance system, ProForm 150i uses a belt drive system instead of a chain drive. Unlike a chain drive, a belt drive doesn’t require lubrication, thus generating less vibration when used.
ProForm 150i is equipped with an LCD display with backlight. The display is split into three main sections. The top section shows resistance level, RPM meter (heart rate), and BPM (beats per minute) meter. The RPM meter has a bar that will adjust as you increase or decrease your pedaling speed.
| ProForm 150i | ProForm 250i | |
|---|---|---|
  |   |
|
| Product Dimensions | 116.8 x 66 x 45.7 inches | 50 x 26 x 18 inches |
| Shipping Weight | 127 pounds | 133 pounds |
| Best offer | Check price | Check price |
The center section of the LCD display shows elapsed time and distance, while the bottom section shows the calories burned and speed. This machine allows you to set a countdown value for time, distances, or calories. For instance, if you set a countdown for 1,000 calories, the display will show the remaining calories until it reaches zero.
What’s interesting about this machine is that it allows reverse pedaling, meaning that you can put some diversity in your training regime. If you decide to pedal in reverse, this unit will continue to record your workout metrics.
This unit also comes in with an iFit connectivity, meaning that you can connect this machine with a tablet or smartphone that has an iFit app via Bluetooth. This way, you can keep track of your workout progress via your iFit account.
Aside from the technical features, this unit also offers awesome side features, such as the sound system and tablet holder. There are two sound speakers placed at the top of the unit and they’re compatible with most MP3 players, smartphones, or tablets. And the table holder is right under the display.
In terms of insurance, ProForm 150i is protected with a 5-year frame Warranty and 90-day parts Warranty.
Overall, ProForm 150i is an elliptical machine best-suited for muscle toning, stamina development, interval training, weight loss, and in general, light to medium-range cardio workouts. All in all, ProForm 150i is a mid-range elliptical machine made for home use and available at an acceptable price.
ProForm 250i Review
ProForm 250i is slightly more expensive than the 150i model, currently priced at $399 on Amazon. However, this product is less popular, coming in #168 in the Amazon’s Best Selling Elliptical Training Machines.
This unit offers features just slightly better than the 150i model, such as Bluetooth connectivity, 14 resistance levels, iFit ready, large LCD display, watts Dial display, 14 workout apps, EKG grip pulse, and iPod compatible audio.
In terms of built, this unit is slightly bigger than the 150i model, weighing in at 133 pounds with a dimension of 50 x 26 x 18 inches. ProForm 250i is not made for gym use. However, compared to the competitors in this price range, ProForm 250i is one of the best elliptical trainers for home use.
The LCD display shows all of your basic information about your workout. However, you can’t see all the values at the same time. Similar to the 150i model, the display shows you the resistance level, watts, distance, speed, total strides, calories, and average heart rate.
This unit doesn’t have the user profile to save your workout progress, so you need an iFit subscription to save and track your monthly progression. Don’t worry, this elliptical trainer comes in with a Bluetooth connectivity that’s compatible with an iFit app.
In terms of insurance, this model is protected with a 5-year frame Warranty and 90-day Parts and Labor Warranty, just like the 150i model.
Aside from the technical features, this machine also offers a sound system and cooling fan. The sound system is compatible with an iPod or MP3 player, so you don’t need to worry about the music to pump up your workout session. Moreover, this unit also comes with a tablet holder, water bottle holder, transport wheels, and foot levelers.
ProForm 150i vs ProForm 250i
Verdict
Overall, these two elliptical machines are very similar to each other. Both of them are not made for gym use, but sturdy enough for home use. Both of them are designed for beginners and novices, not for hardcore trainers and experienced workout enthusiats.
The 250i model is slightly more expensive than the 150i model, but it also offers more features. It’s a tough choice, but if we have to choose one, we’d pick the ProForm 250i model. With only a couple of bucks more, you can get more workouts and resistance levels, cooling fan as well as other more technical and side features.
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