Written by Tyler DiGiovanni | BSBM
Fact checked by Kirsten Yovino, CPT Brookbush Institute
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If you're looking to take your cardio training to the next level, a stair stepper machine might be the piece of equipment you've been looking for. Other cardio machines around the world don't have the same reputation that a stair stepper does.
Often intimidating, these functional training machines not only give a great cardiovascular workout but also target your calves, quads, hamstrings, and glutes. Stair climbing is a notoriously difficult exercise to perform but also one of the most effective forms of low-impact cardio training.
We've compiled a list of 9 stepper machines that will help you reach your fitness goals with a perfect fit for your home gym.
9 Best Stair Steppers On The Market
- Overall Best: StairMaster StepMill 3
- Budget Pick: Doufit ST-01 Foldable Stair Stepper
- Premium Pick: StairMaster 10G Gauntlet Stair Climber
- Best Stair Stepper On Amazon: Sunny Health- SF-E3919
- Mini Stair Stepper: SportsRoyals Stair Stepper
- Best Jacobs Ladder: Jacobs Ladder
- Max Trainer: Bowflex Max Total 16
- Vertical Climber: Spirit CVC800
- Recumbent Stepper: Spirit CRS800S
SFS Pick
NordicTrack FS10i
SFS Budget Pick
DOUFIT
SFS Premium Pick
Stairmaster 10G
1. Overall Best Stair Stepper: NordicTrack FS10i
The NordicTrack FS10i provides a complete cardio and strength workout in a stair climbing machine that is small enough to fit in your home gym.
The NordicTrack FS10i is a versatile three-in-one exercise machine that functions as a treadmill, elliptical, and stair stepper. It offers adjustable stride length, 10 incline levels, and 24 resistance levels, allowing users to simulate running, stair climbing, and more.
The 3-in-1 machine is compatible with an iFIT membership, providing access to live and on-demand workout programs. When following iFIT classes, the FS10i auto-adjusts resistance to match the program displayed on its 10-inch HD touchscreen. You get a one month trial to iFIT programming for free with your purchase then you'll have to pay $39 monthly if you want to continue your subscription.
In manual mode, users can easily change incline and resistance using one-touch controls on the console. The machine tracks various workout statistics and features movable handlebars for a comprehensive full-body workout. Customers appreciate its versatility and varied workout options.
Key Features:
- 10% Incline Control
- 26 Digital Resistance Levels
- Hands-free Automatic Adjustment
- Compatible with iFIT
Pros
- Compact design
- Stair size gives sure footing
- Can be moved easily with front transport wheels
Cons
- Pricey
Enjoy smooth, low-impact workouts with expert trainers on a 10" HD touchscreen...
2. Best Budget Stair Stepper: Doufit ST-01 Foldable Stair Stepper
This stair climber machine comes equipped with removable resistance bands that provide an alternative full-body workout mode to the standard handlebar step workout. The adjustable handlebar allows you to find the most comfortable hand position during your workout.
The collapsible frame also makes storing this machine while not in use extremely convenient. The Doutfit ST-01 has a small digital monitor that can record calories burned, length of your workout, step frequency, and the total number of steps during your workout.
The foot pedals are textured to keep a non-slip surface while working out. The foot covers are adjustable to make sure there's no rocking of the machine while in use. This stair climbing machine utilizes hydraulic cylinders as its resistance system.
Key Features:
- Collapsible frame
- Hydraulic resistance
- Has digital monitor to track workout
- Comes with removable resistance bands
Pros
- Low cost
- A collapsible frame makes for easy storage
- Resistance bands can be utilized to work out the upper body simultaneously
Cons
- Maximum weight capacity of 220lb
- Resistance in hydraulic cylinders can't be adjusted
This is a great alternative stepper for customers who desire a high-intensity workout, but have space limitations. The SM3 is designed for both home and light commercial use...
3. Best Premium Stair Stepper: StairMaster 10G Gauntlet Stair Climber
The StairMaster 10G is one of the best stair climbers you can buy today. This commercial-grade stepper provides an intense workout with its OverDrive Training Mode, which replicates pushing or carrying a load up stairs. This stair climber boasts having the widest (22") and deepest (12") step surface for stair climbers across the board.
Included in this piece of fitness equipment is a 10" LCD monitor OpenHub™ console with a plethora of features such as a USB port, Bluetooth connectivity, VA glass, and the ability to connect to Apple watches and Samsung Galaxy Watches.
There is an option for a 15.6" personal viewing screen attachment as well in case you want to be able to watch whatever programming you want during your workout.
A highlight of this machine is being able to use the Landmark Challenge Program on top of the other standard console workout programs. The Landmark Challenge Program simulates climbing famous landmarks from around the world, such as the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty, and Great Pyramid of Giza, or if you're looking for a proper high-intensity workout, you can attempt to climb the Burj Khalifa.
Key Features:
- Landmark Challenge Program
- 25 levels
- 10" display
- Hot bar with stop button, heart rate, and level control
Pros
- High build quality
- Customizable
- Landmark Challenge Program
- OverDrive Training Mode for extra intensity
Cons
- Very expensive
- Machine is hefty, so moving it may be an issue
- Need a high head clearance
The StairMaster 10G marks a revolutionary shift in stair-climbing technology. The innovative new design features the OverDrive Training Mode that simulates carrying...
4. Best Stair Stepper On Amazon: Sunny Health- SF-E3919
The Sunny health fitness stair climber is built with a heavy-duty steel frame that can hold up to 260lb. This low-impact machine has a 9" climb and a 5" horizontal movement for a smooth climbing step.
This exercise machine uses a 14lb inertia-ready flywheel belt-driven mechanism that keeps noise to a minimum during your workout. On the static handles, there are pulse-sensing grips to let you keep an eye on your heart rate, making sure you're hitting your optimal range.
The Sunny Health fitness stair climber also has dynamic handlebars that can be used to get an entire body workout during your aerobic exercise. This stair climber has 8 levels of magnetic resistance, making the intensity you want easily achievable.
The onboard performance monitor lets you keep an eye on your RPMs, speed, pulse, calories burned, the time elapsed, as well as distance. Also included in the performance monitor are a clock, thermometer, and calendar.
The Sunny Health fitness stair stepper also has a conveniently positioned water bottle holder for easy hydration during your workout.
Key Features:
- 14lb inertia-ready flywheel
- Pulse sensor handles
- 8 levels of magnetic resistance
- Performance monitor
Pros
- Two different sets of handlebars
- 8 adjustable resistance settings
- Small footprint
Cons
- 260lb weight limit
- Some reviews mention noisiness after a few uses
- Need a high head clearance
This versatile machine combines the best of stepping and striding in one intense movement. Climb to a vertical height of 9 inches and stride a horizontal distance of 5 inches...
5. Best Mini Stair Stepper: SportsRoyals Stair Stepper
The Sportsroyals Stair Stepper is a miniature version of a traditional stair stepper machine, utilizing 2mm steel and precision bearings as opposed to a cable pulley system. Most stair climbers provide a more traditional vertical motion; this piece of exercise equipment uses a slight twist, giving a more natural feel while staying a low impact workout. There is the option to use resistance bands as well, incorporating a full-body workout.
Your low-impact workout is controlled by the European standard hydraulic cylinders, which also provide a quiet workout environment. The hydraulic system on this mini stepper provides an excellent cushion that's easy on the joints as well providing a great workout.
The manufacturer does recommend keeping workouts to 20 minutes or less to ensure the integrity of the cylinders. The oversized pedals are equipped with silicone anti-skid pads and skid-resistant floor protectors to provide a solid base while in use.
This compact fitness stair stepper comes in at a fraction of the space of a traditional stepper with a footprint of .23 m^2, while still having an LED monitor with exercise time, burned calories, distance in miles, and step count.
Key Features:
- Twist action motion to target thighs & glutes
- LED monitor to track workout
- 8 levels of magnetic resistance
- Performance monitor
Pros
- Super small footprint makes it the best portable stair stepper
- Comes preassembled
- Resistance bands can be attached for upper body work
- High weight tolerance
Cons
- No handlebars included; the balance could be an issue
- No adjustable resistance
Compared to the traditional cable-pully mini stepper, we used 2mm high quality steel and precision bearings.After thousands of tests...
6. Best Jacobs Ladder: Jacobs Ladder
This Jacobs Ladder stair climber was explicitly designed to give high-intensity, low-impact workouts. People have been found to burn calories at a higher rate with a lower perceived exertion while using this machine for a stair climber workout as opposed to a traditional treadmill.
This functional training machine is excellent for rehab work, circuit training, HIIT (High-intensity Interval Training), as well as endurance training.
With a 40-degree climbing angle, your body is put in a better position to ease some of the stress on your knees, hips, and lower back. The angle of the workout provides an upper and lower body all at the same time.
This stair climber has its pace set by body power, meaning you control how fast you want to go, so it really is up to you if you want an easy or challenging workout.
Another added benefit of this machine being self-powered is the lack of a need for proximity to an outlet, making the placement of this machine in your home gym more versatile.
The high-quality welded tubular steel frame and maple climbing rungs provide a solid structure that will last under your most grueling workouts. This cardio machine also comes with a digital display that tells elapsed time, calories burned, how many feet you've climbed, heart rate (with the use of a chest strap), and your rate of climb.
This stair climber machine is being adapted by more and more sports teams, professional and amateur military bases, as well as police and fire departments, marking this as one of the top stair climbers available.
Key Features:
- Self powered with solid construction
- Solid maple rungs
- Digital readouts (time, feet climbed, burned calories, heart rate)
Pros
- Does not need an outlet
- High caloric burn rate with less exertion
- Pace is determined by the user
- 7.5" ceiling clearance
Cons
- No pre-programmed workout programs
- No drink holder
Jacobs Ladder is the treadmill-style ladder climber that’s equally effective as a high intensity interval training tool for competitive athletes and low-impact...
7. Best Max Trainer: Bowflex Max Total 16
The Bowflex Max Total 16 is a state-of-the-art stair stepper machine. Boasting 20 resistance levels, a 16" interactive console with an HD touchscreen, heart rate monitor armband, and 6-grip handlebars so you can always find a grip that's most comfortable for you.
This Bowflex stair climber also has a 1-year JRNY® membership included with the machine. This includes a variety of exercises that are suggested for you with real-time virtual coaching, trainer-led workouts, or streaming entertainment.
There are also Bluetooth speakers if you decide you would instead stream music from your phone right to the stair climber. After the 1-year is up, you can choose to sign up for a membership of $20/month, which is less than a lot of people pay for a gym membership.
Key Features:
- 16" adjustable HD touchscreen
- Built-in JRNY® experience
- 20 resistance levels
- 6-grip handlebars
Pros
- Very high tech
- 1-year JRNY membership included with purchase
- High Variety of workouts
Cons
- Without a JRNY membership, a lot of features are unusable
- Wi-Fi connection required
Exclusively available from Bowflex. Built-in JRNY® experience. 1-year JRNY membership ($149 value) included with purchase...
8. Best Vertical Climber: Spirit CVC800
The Spirit CVC800 Vertical Climber uses a narrow 2" pedal spacing in harmony with a 12" arched stepping action and a 2-degree foot pedal inversion for a natural feeling step.
This vertical climber comes with 20 magnetic resistance levels, 6 programs, static handles, and high grip handles to simulate the motion of climbing a ladder.
The dual built-in cup holders allow enough space to make sure you can stay hydrated during your workout. Your workout doesn't have to be a tedious experience with the built-in phone or tablet holder.
This heavy-duty frame can withstand up to a 400lb user, so you can be assured that the build quality is top-notch. Most stair climber machines don't offer the same upper body conditioning that is possible with a vertical climber.
The Spirit CVC800 is capable of an actual total body workout.
Key Features:
- 5” x 3” blue backlit LCD
- 20 levels of magnetic resistance
- 23lb flywheel system
- Bluetooth connectivity
Pros
- Hits upper and lower body
- Transport wheels
- High weight capacity
Cons
- Heart rate monitor not included
- Low workout customization
The Spirit Fitness CVC800 Vertical Climber combines the natural 12” arched stepping action and narrow 2” pedal spacing (Q-Factor) with an effective upper body workout...
9. Best Recumbent Stepper: Spirit CRS800S
The CRS800S Recumbent Stepper has been designed to be an accessible piece of fitness equipment for everyone. With a convenient step-through frame, movable armrests, and a 360-degree 4-way adjustable swivel seat assembly, getting on and off this machine couldn't be any easier.
This fitness stair stepper features a linear step range that can automatically adjust from 1" all the way up to 12.5", making it ideal for all sizes of users and their individual range of motions.
Many stair climbing machines require the user to stand, but with a recumbent stair climbing machine, the user can exercise from a comfortable seated position. This means less stress on your joints and can be a perfect way for people with lower mobility to get a good workout in.
The multitude of hand positions guarantees that you will be able to find a comfortable position to have your hands, whether on the static handles by the seat with built-in heart rate sensors or the dynamic grips so you can get an upper as well as lower body workout.
The CRS800S has a user-friendly console, multiple program options, a USB charging port for electronic devices, and a built-in fan. Keeping track of your individual preferences is possible with a program profile matrix, with feedback on your steps, calories burned, pulse, the time elapsed/remaining, distance traveled, METs, SPM, and more.
With a maximum user weight of 450lb, this truly is one of the best stair climbers you could buy for someone of any fitness level.
Key Features:
- White multi-window LED display (steps, calories, pulse, time)
- 20 levels of resistance
- Heart Rate: Contact and Bluetooth compatible
Pros
- 50lb weight limit
- Easy for anyone to get into
- 20 resistance levels
- USB Charging Port
- Adjustable armrests & backrest
Cons
- Might not be ideal for higher fitness levels
- Expensive
The CRS800S Recumbent Stepper makes total-body exercise accessible for a wide variety of users. Regardless of age or physical ability...
9 Best Stair Stepper Machines Side By Side Comparison
Below you'll find a chart that highlights some of the key metrics of each of our top picks covered above. We're sure that you'll be able to find the best home stair stepper for your needs.
|
Product Name |
Price ($-$$$$) |
Dimension |
Warranty |
Weight Capacity |
Features |
Average rating |
|
$$$$ |
58.5” (L) 29.5” (W) 74”(H) |
Limited 10 year on structural frame
|
NA |
3-in1 machine 10inch display Revolving staircase |
31 Reviews ✩✩✩✩.6
|
|
|
$ |
15”(L) 20”(W) 39” - 45.5”(H) |
30 day money back guarantee |
220lb |
Collapsible frame Resistance bands for upper body work |
229 Reviews ✩✩✩✩.4 |
|
|
$$$$ |
63”(L) 34”(W) 83”(H) |
Limited 10 year on structural frame 3 years - parts & labor |
400lb |
OverDrive Training mode Landmark Challenge program Widest and deepest stairs available |
N/A |
|
|
$ |
44”(L) 25”(L) 64”(H) |
3 year / 180 day manufacturer warranty |
260lbs |
Adjustable magnetic resistance Static and moving handlebars |
923 Reviews ✩✩✩✩ |
|
|
$ |
18.5”(L) 17.32”(W) 15.75”(H) |
1 year warranty |
330lb |
Twist stepper comes fully assembled |
1,580 Reviews ✩✩✩✩.5 |
|
|
$$$$ |
76”(L) 31.25”(W) 65.5”(H) |
4 year parts 1 year labor |
325lb |
Self powered More effective than a treadmill with less strain |
18 Reviews ✩✩✩ |
|
|
$$$$ |
49.3”(L) 30.8”(W) 65.7”(H) |
3 years - frame and parts 1 year - electronics 90 days - labor |
300lb |
1 year JRNY membership Bluetooth capability |
99 Reviews ✩✩✩✩.8 |
|
|
$$$$ |
67”(L) 31.5”(W) 48”(H) |
Frame -lifetime Brake and Parts - 10 year Labor - 2 years |
400lb |
High weight capacity Dual drink holder Built in phone/tablet holder |
N/A |
|
|
$$$$ |
69”(L) 35”(W) 49”(H) |
Frame -lifetime Brake and Parts - 10 year Labor - 2 years |
450lb |
360 degree swivel seat Padded oversize pedals |
1 Review ✩✩✩✩ |
Benefits Of Stair Steppers
Finding the suitable cardio machine can be an arduous task, but it doesn't have to be. Here are some reasons why you may want to consider adding a stair stepper to your home gym.
Stair climbers are a great low-impact exercise. When comparing a stair climber vs treadmill, rather than the pounding your joints can take on a treadmill, a stair climber workout lessens some of the stress on your joints and lower body in general. Some stair climbers, such as the Jacobs Ladder, have been proven to burn more calories in the same amount of time, with less perceived exertion compared to a treadmill.
Stair climbing has also been proven to be an effective way of toning and strengthening lower body muscles, improving balance, and maintaining healthy bone density. When using some stair climbers, such as a vertical climber, you can also get a simultaneous upper body workout in too.
What To Look For When Buying Stair Steppers For A Home Gym:
Now that you've decided that a fitness stair stepper machine is suitable for you, how do you wade through the massive amount of options out there?
We'll get you started in the right direction with some of the following tips.
1. Size
Figuring out how much room you have to add a stair climber to your workout area should be the first thing you look at. If you don't have a dedicated fitness area, then a mini stepper or collapsible option might be the way to go for you. If the footprint of the area isn't the issue, but ceiling height is, a recumbent option may be best.
2. Build
The following attribute you should look at is what the build quality looks like. A budget stair climber may not be a viable option if the user is on the heavier side, but someone that is relatively light may not need to splurge on a machine with a high weight limit.
Another build attribute on stair climbers you need to be aware of is what the actual stepping mechanism is. You need to figure out if you would want a revolving stair, a hydraulic system, or a flywheel system. On top of that, would you prefer single or multiple resistance levels?
3. Features
Another essential thing to consider when buying is what features you want with your stair climber. If Bluetooth connectivity or personalized coaching technology is a top priority, that's going to steer your search to particular machines.
Most basic stair climbers will come with some sort of LCD monitor to track your progress, but how many more features you want in the LCD screen, such as personal profiles or access to streaming services, will narrow down your hunt.
4. Usage
How and when are you planning on using your stair climber? If you want to be able to hop on while you're watching TV in your living room, then your choices will generally be fewer.
If you have some serious fitness goals, investing in a more heavy-duty machine may be worth it in the long run. This is the part to be really honest with yourself to be able to find the right fit. Check out these stair stepper benefits for some inspiration on how you can best use this piece of equipment.
5. Price
This ties in with the last section. A stair stepper machine can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. Almost anyone will be able to find a machine that will fit their price range.
6. Online Ratings
Before making this investment, it's always good to check reviews on what you're purchasing, the good and the bad. Some bad reviews could be from people unhappy with how the product was shipped, which sometimes doesn't have anything to do with the machine itself.
Getting a good range of opinions will let you figure out the strengths and weaknesses of each machine and help you find the best stair climbing machine for you.
Stair Stepper FAQs:
Are stair steppers worth it?
Absolutely, if you're looking to strengthen your lower body while burning calories and building endurance, then a stair stepper is a great low-impact way to do that. Depending on your budget you should be able to purchase a machine that will provide you with more than ample opportunity to get in shape. And for some fat-torching inspiration, check out these staircase workouts, which show you how to fully utilize your new piece of stair stepping equipment.
What is the best stepper to buy?
In our opinion, the NordicTrack FS10i is the best stair stepper to buy assuming you have the budget for it. It's no wonder why the brand named StairMaster is known for building high-quality fitness machines in this space.
Which stair climber is best?
The Bowflex Max Total 16 is the best stair climber on the market. This machine has all the bells and whistles you could ask for. The only downside is the monthly subscription fee after your 1 year trial period ends for access to the JRNY app. That said, it's still a bargain when compared to most monthly gym memberships plus you can workout in the comfort of your own home.
Is a stepper as good as walking?
A stepper is better for engaging your quads and glutes than walking on a flat surface and can burn more calories due to the higher intensity. So, if you had to choose between the two then the obvious choice would be the stepper as it pushes you more thus resulting in more health benefits.
Is a stair climber better than a treadmill?
A stair climber puts more emphasis on working your quads and glutes, creating an intense cardiovascular workout that can be more effective than an equal amount of time on a treadmill. So in that case a stair climber is better than a treadmill if your goal is to burn more calories and strengthen your lower body muscles in an equal amount of training time.
Is stair stepper good for belly fat?
A stair stepper can contribute to overall fat loss, including belly fat, as part of a well-rounded fitness routine. However, it's important to understand that spot reduction (losing fat from a specific area, like the belly) is not effectively achieved through any single exercise alone. To lose belly fat you should exercise regularly and try to eat at a caloric deficit.
Summary: WHAT'S THE BEST STAIR STEPPER?
An incredible addition to any home gym, a stair climber should be on everyone's list that's looking for a solid cardio workout.
To us, the overall best stair stepper is the StairMaster StepMill 3.
As we've seen on this list, there is a machine for everyone that will fit their goals and budget. Someone with minimal floor space would probably be better off with a mini-stepper rather than a larger machine like a Jacobs Ladder.
Someone with specific health limitations won't be doing any steep climbs on a vertical climber and would benefit from a recumbent option. We've provided you with a list of machines whose weight limit ranges from 220 all the way up to 450 pounds, so someone of almost any size could find the best stair climber for themselves.
As a final recap, here are our top picks for the best stair steppers on the market right now:
- Overall Best Stair Climber: StairMaster StepMill 3
- Best Budget Stair Climber: Doufit ST-01 Foldable Stair Stepper
- Best Premium StairMaster: StairMaster 10G Gauntlet Stair Climber
- Best Stair Climber On Amazon: Sunny Health- SF-E3919
- Best Mini Stair Stepper: SportsRoyals Stair Stepper
- Best Jacobs Ladder: Jacobs Ladder
- Best Max Trainer: Bowflex Max Total 16
- Best Vertical Climber: Spirit CVC800
- Best Recumbent Stepper: Spirit CRS800S
With our top 9 best stair climbers, you're bound to find the right cardio machine to accomplish all of your fitness goals and conquer the beast that is a stair stepper.
More Best Equipment Roundups:
Tyler DiGiovanni
Author