Life Fitness E1 Go Cross-Trainer vs. Sole Fitness E35 Elliptical

The Life Fitness E1 and the Sole Fitness E35 are your top of the line ellipticals. We did a more in-depth review of the Sole Fitness E35 if you’re particularly interested in that elliptical. Life Fitness is a popular fitness company whose products you’ll see a lot in gyms. Sole Fitness makes those specialized products directed more towards at home use but you’ll probably see them in the gyms too.

So what’s the difference between these two ellipticals? Like treadmills, their design and function are similar and it’s the little things that set them apart. These two machines set the bar really high with just how advanced an elliptical can get.

Design

Winner: E1

You’ll commonly see Life Fitness ellipticals or treadmills in a gym and for good reason. The E1 and other Life Fitness machines are just simple in general. A 29lb flywheel in the back allows for a large stride and the oversized foot pads reduce sideways motion. The E35’s flywheel is in the front which might throw off some riders initially and the smaller foot pads leave room for slight horizontal movement.

Both ellipticals come with two sets of handlebars—one that is ideal for full-body movement and another with heart rate sensors.

Systems

Winner: Tie

The E1 is going to come with slightly more programs but that doesn’t exactly give it the advantage over the E35. Both elliptical’s programs have to do with incline, resistance, and heart rate among others, so you’ll be getting somewhat of the same workouts regardless.

The E35 comes with a built in sound system, whereas with the E1, you’ll have to purchase a more expensive type of console that is sound and MP3 compatible.

Overall

Winner: Tie

We like both the E1 and E35 as premium ellipticals. What we like even better is that they have separate warranties on their most vital and sophisticated parts such as the electronics and mechanics. If for some reason they should fail, you’ll know you’re covered.

There’s not much separating the two ellipticals in terms of design or systems that makes one radically different from the other. You’ll have to pay a little bit more with the E1 to get a quality sound system. Other than that, we guarantee you’ll be happy with either machine.