NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical review (2024) | Garage Gym Reviews (2024)

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Editor’s Note: The NordicTrack CX 998 elliptical is no longer in production. We suggest viewing the NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 elliptical as the best alternative, or view our Best NordicTrack Ellipticals roundup for more options.

An elliptical machine is an essential piece of home gym equipment for many people. Maybe you have come across the NordicTrack CX 998 in your search or even in your own garage! If you are looking for an elliptical trainer where you can really put the pedal to the metal, the CX 998 is an excellent choice! However, if you want a new machine, you are going to need to look elsewhere because it is now discontinued.

In our NordicTrack CX 998 elliptical review, we will talk about the benefits of this elliptical exerciser all the way from the handlebars to the warranty. Looking to upgrade your own CX 998? No worries, we will also give suggestions for a new elliptical that is currently in production.

We Know Ellipticals

Our team is made up of CrossFit-L1 trainers, certified personal trainers, and of course, some gym rats. We know all about commercial ellipticals as well as ellipticals that will best fit in your home. It is our job to tell you the facts about these machines so you can make the most informed decision when looking to purchase your own elliptical.

Looking for an Alternative to NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical?

Best Alternative to NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical

NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 Elliptical

GGR Score: 3.6 NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical review (2024) | Garage Gym Reviews (2)NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical review (2024) | Garage Gym Reviews (3)NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical review (2024) | Garage Gym Reviews (4)NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical review (2024) | Garage Gym Reviews (5)NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical review (2024) | Garage Gym Reviews (6)

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Product Highlights

  • 7” smart HD Touchscreen
  • Water bottle holder, dual 2” digitally amplified speakers
  • AutoBreeze workout fan, oversized cushioned pedals
  • 22 levels of digital resistance and up to a 20% incline
  • Constructed with heavy-duty solid steel

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Programming options
  • iFIT enabled
  • Quiet
  • Sturdy build
  • 30 pre-programmed workouts
  • Incline options

Cons

  • Stride length is small for a commercial elliptical
  • Requires a 4-year iFIT membership
  • Heavy

Bottom Line

Intended for commercial use, the Commercial 9.9 Elliptical is a sturdy treadmill that offers interactive programming through its required 4-year membership to iFIT.

Are you reading this because you want to upgrade your own NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical? Or maybe you are just looking for a similar product that is currently on the market. We suggest the NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 Elliptical as the best alternative. Even though it is made for commercial use, it has a solid build and it is a great product for families who are looking to get the whole family moving with iFIT.

A Quick Look at the NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical

This elliptical is believed to be sold around $749, which makes it a pretty middle of the road elliptical pricewise. As are most ellipticals, the CX 998 is great for low-impact cardio workouts. However, it is highlighted by its incline ramp, which not ellipticals have. We also like that it is iFIT compatible which allows you to track your workouts or give you ideas for new ones.

Pros:

  • Incline ramp
  • 5 ramp angles
  • Silent Magnetic Resistance
  • Hand grip pulse sensor heart rate monitor
  • Manual or automatic resistance control
  • iFIT compatible

Cons:

  • Only 8 built-in programs
  • 1-year warranty

NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical Specs

As always, we try to get you the most accurate information. However, we had trouble finding reputable sources for some of the specs, such as the footprint, weight, flywheel information, and stride length, since this NordicTrack machine is off the market.

FootprintN/A
WeightN/A
Weight capacity250 lbs
Type of resistanceManual or automatic
Resistance levels10 resistance levels
FlywheelN/A
DisplayTrack Display Monitor
Stride lengthN/A

Key Features of the NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical

This elliptical is accessible for many different levels of athletes, making it a great piece of exercise equipment for home use. If you are looking for a quiet elliptical, we like this option because it uses silent magnetic resistance to keep from getting too loud. We also recommend this elliptical for anybody looking for an elliptical with an incline ramp. This will help elevate your workout by adding some extra resistance.

The CX 998 is also iFIT compatible. Even though this is an earlier model of NordicTrack’s ellipticals, we appreciate that you are still able to use iFIT for your workouts.

Footprint, Portability, and Durability

If you are looking for a compact elliptical, you may want to look at something smaller than the CX 998. While the company does not disclose a lot of the information about the footprint of this machine, we do know that the user weight limit is 250 pounds, which leads us to determine that it is likely an average sized elliptical machine.

In regards to the warranty, we are not very impressed. NordicTrack only offers a one-year warranty. Typically for fitness equipment we like to see at least three to five years or even a lifetime on at least the frame, if not parts as well.

Ergonomics

You can count on a smooth and quiet stride on this elliptical due to the silent magnetic resistance. This allows you to change the resistance on the flywheel at the press of a button instead of relying on air or your weight to get the job done.

We also like how this elliptical comes with a built-in fan to help keep you cool and comfortable as you work up a sweat through your different workout programs. Since this is a deal breaker for some, many elliptical machines come equipped with this feature, though not all.

Technology Benefits and Conveniences

Since this is an older model elliptical, we see a lot of the basics, especially when talking about technology. This display is large and you can see how far you have gone in numbers and on the track view on your screen. It does have iFIT technology, although it is the older version that requires you to purchase the workout programs as CDs or videocassettes. The exercise programs still allow you to follow along with a personal trainer and the program can auto-adjust the settings for you as you go through the workout, much like the more modern iFIT app.

It is required that you plug the elliptical into a 120 volt circuit, so make sure that you are installing your CX 998 near an outlet.

Final Verdict of Our NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical Review

If you are looking for a treadmill with an incline, this is a fine option if you can find one for a good price. However, there are newer models, like the NordicTrack FS10i, that also have incline capabilities that may be more worth your money.

NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical Rating

NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical

NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical review (2024) | Garage Gym Reviews (7)

Wanting to learn more about this discontinued elliptical? Get all your questions answered with our NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical review.

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 1499

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.12

NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical

NordicTrack Commercial 9.9 Elliptical

NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical FAQs

Is a NordicTrack elliptical worth it?

NordicTrack is known for its quality and durable machines, so we often suggest them for home gyms. The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i is consistently one of our top picks for at-home elliptical trainers. However, as long as you will use it, any elliptical is worth it!

How much does a NordicTrack CX 998 weigh?

Unfortunately, since this is a discontinued model, we couldn’t find a credible source for this information.

How much clearance do you need for a NordicTrack elliptical?

NordicTrack ellipticals will range in height. Many of them range from 67-74 inches in height. It is often suggested that you plan for an additional 12 inches of clearance, so for the taller side of a NordicTrack elliptical, it would be suggested that you have 86 inches of vertical space.

NordicTrack CX 998 Elliptical review (2024) | Garage Gym Reviews (8)

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Kate Meier NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1

Kate has nearly two decades of experience working in both the fitness and content industries. On the fitness side, she has worked in a number of settings: youth athletics, owned a CrossFit affiliate, personal training, weightlifting coach, CrossFit coach, and fitness floor consultant at a YMCA. Personally, Kate enjoys competing in weightlifting and stores her barbell in her bedroom.On the content side, Kate’s background is in newspaper journalism. She branched into public relations for the American Red Cross for about five years and then moving into content marketing.Today, her work at Garage Gym Reviews blends her excitement for fitness and love of writing. If she isn’t reviewing fitness equipment, you can find her working out or spending time with her two children.Certifications:NASM Certified Personal TrainerCrossFit Level 1 TrainerUSA Weightlifting Level 1 Trainer

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FAQs

Does NordicTrack make good ellipticals? ›

NordicTrack AirGlide 14i vs ProForm Carbon EL

The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i is our team's top pick for the best elliptical for home gyms. The AirGlide was released in the summer of 2023 as a new-and-improved (and renamed) version of the fan-favorite NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 elliptical.

What are the disadvantages of the elliptical? ›

The Cons of Ellipticals

The movement you do on an elliptical is also unnatural, and because some ellipticals don't allow much adjustment in hip width or stride length, you might feel even more awkward.

What is the best brand of elliptical machine? ›

Best high end elliptical: NordicTrack FS14i

A huge stride length, adjustable incline, a whopping 26 resistance levels and a tilting 14-inch touchscreen are just a few that make this machine stand out from the rest.

Which is better for seniors, a treadmill or an elliptical? ›

So you don't land on your feet with each stride. This minimizes the impact (or stress) on your bones and joints. One study found that exercising on an elliptical reduces impact by up to 60% compared to running. So ellipticals are a great option for people with arthritis or joint pain.

Is ProForm or NordicTrack better? ›

Both brands offer iFIT programming, automatic trainer control, and robust warranties. Key differences include ProForm's slightly lower weight capacity and NordicTrack's enhanced user comforts and extras. Choosing between ProForm and NordicTrack typically depends on budget, desired features, and workout preferences.

Is NordicTrack good or bad? ›

NordicTrack is the No. 1 treadmill brand in our professional opinion because they make durable and feature-packed machines at a good price. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is the best for most people, but the budget-friendly NordicTrack EXP 7i is also a good choice.

What is the average lifespan of an elliptical? ›

If properly maintained, any good quality elliptical machine should last for at least 10 years (usually between 10 and 20 years). High-end models with quality parts and premium materials may even last longer, especially if they are well maintained. What are the factors that affect its service life?

Is The elliptical a better workout than walking? ›

Both walking and the elliptical machine are primarily lower body-based workouts. However, due to the handlebars on an elliptical, it does offer more of a full-body workout than walking. Studies have shown an increase in upper body and core work while using your elliptical.

Who should not use an elliptical machine? ›

Those with knee pain usually have a load tolerance equal to less than their body weight. So, if your load tolerance is equivalent to only 50% body weight, there's a good chance that the elliptical machine will have too much load.

Can you lose belly fat by using an elliptical? ›

An elliptical trainer, or cross-trainer, is a stationary exercise machine used to simulate climbing stairs, walking or running without causing excessive pressure to the joints, hence decreasing the risk of impact injuries. Elliptical trainers can help burn calories, reduce belly fat and tone the body.

How much should you spend on an elliptical machine? ›

You can get a budget elliptical for under $1,000, but you'll have to sacrifice some features like fancy screens and adjustable resistance levels. Mid-range ellipticals (around $1,000 to $1,500) work well for most home use.

Are ellipticals good for the knees? ›

Working out on an elliptical is generally a better option for individuals with knee joint issues such as OA. However, some people may find they can benefit from exercising on a treadmill occasionally without any negative effect on how their knees feel.

Is an elliptical good for a 70 year old woman? ›

Elliptical machines are ideal for seniors because they minimize stress on the hips, knees, and back, which are areas of the body where seniors frequently experience chronic pain.

Is it better to go fast or slow on elliptical? ›

Although you may think that moving faster will burn more calories, if you pedal too quickly you'll gain too much momentum and won't be able to fully engage your muscles. Try to find a happy medium. Using an elliptical isn't all about working your legs – you can also engage your arms for a full-body workout.

Is 30 minutes on the elliptical better than walking on a treadmill? ›

We Recommend. A 155-pound person can burn around 335 calories after 30 minutes of working out on the elliptical, according to Harvard Health Publishing. The same person burns only around 149 calories after 30 minutes of walking.

Which elliptical is better, Sole or NordicTrack? ›

Sole Fitness Ellipticals. The biggest difference between NordicTrack and Sole Fitness equipment is the warranty and price point. Sole Fitness is considered to be top-of-the-line home cardio equipment.

Is the NordicTrack cross trainer any good? ›

The machine is quite substantial in both size and weight and is solid so when you workout on it it doesn't move at all. I have other Nordic track gym equipment and the build quality is consistent throughout their product range ( my experience to date with Nordic track). I would highly recommend this machine...

Is NordicTrack good for walking? ›

Exercise Quality

The NordicTrack EXP 7i provides a great platform for general running, walking, and hiking workouts. With an adequately large tread deck, a 10 mph top speed, and an incline that rises to 11.3%, it isn't hard to create a challenging workout. The deck is quite comfortable, even for lightweight users.

Can you watch TV on NordicTrack elliptical? ›

The monitors on NordicTrack treadmills are not equipped to broadcast TV. Instead, they are compatible with iFIT, which features live and on-demand classes. You can use your own device on the machine's tablet holder to watch something and stream the sound through the BlueTooth speakers.

References

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