8 Best Foldable Cardio Machines for Small Apartments — Space-Saving Treadmills, Bikes & Ellipticals

Living in a small apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up cardio. Foldable machines free up floor space while still delivering effective workouts. Below are 8 top space-saving options — treadmills, upright/folding bikes, and compact ellipticals — picked for footprint, ease of storage, build quality and value.

Quick note: adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, per CDC guidance — these machines can help you reach that goal from home (source: CDC) [https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm].

How we picked

Foldability and compact footprint (how small it stores)
Stability and max user weight
Noise level and suitability for apartment buildings
Features you’ll actually use (speeds/resistance, basic console, app compatibility)
Warranty and brand support

When we state product features below we link to the manufacturer or an authoritative product page for verification.

WalkingPad / Xiaomi WalkingPad R2 — Best ultra-compact folding treadmill for apartments

Why it stands out: The WalkingPad R-series (A1/R1/R2 models) are designed to fold nearly flat and slide under a bed or sofa. They’re ideal for walking and light jogging in very tight spaces.
Key strengths: Extremely slim profile when folded, simple console or app control, quiet motor for apartment use.
Who it’s for: Walkers, gentle joggers, and anyone who wants an unobtrusive treadmill that stores horizontally.
Where to learn more: WalkingPad product pages and retailer listings (example: WalkingPad official site) [https://walkingpad.com/].
Quick tip: These are lighter-duty machines—check max speed and weight capacity before buying.

Horizon Fitness T101 — Best folding treadmill for balanced budget and performance

Why it stands out: Horizon’s T101 is a well-reviewed folding treadmill with a reliable deck, 3.0 CHP motor (good for walkers and runners), and a folding “SoftDrop” system that safely lowers the deck when you fold it.
Key strengths: Good warranty and support, stable running surface for the price, simple fold-and-store design.
Who it’s for: Budget-conscious runners/walkers who want a reputable brand and a treadmill that folds upright to save space.
Where to learn more: Horizon Fitness product page (T101) [https://horizonfitness.com/treadmills/t101/].

NordicTrack T Series (T 6.5 S) — Best fold-up treadmill with interactive workouts

Why it stands out: NordicTrack’s T-series offers a folding deck with the brand’s iFit compatibility (interactive trainer-led classes). When folded the deck is upright for small-footprint storage.
Key strengths: Incline options, integrated program library, solid warranty options when purchased with promotions.
Who it’s for: Apartment dwellers who want coaching-style workouts and a treadmill that folds upright.
Where to learn more: NordicTrack T Series product page [https://www.nordictrack.com/treadmills/treadmill-t-6-5-s].

Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill — Best compact budget treadmill that stores flat or upright

Why it stands out: The Goplus 2-in-1 (under-desk/indoor treadmill style) can be used with or without the handrail and folds for storage. It’s an affordable option for walking and light jogging.
Key strengths: Low cost, versatile setup for walking/desk use, compact storage footprint.
Who it’s for: Walkers and those seeking a desk-friendly treadmill on a budget.
Where to learn more: Goplus product/retailer listings (example retailer page) [https://www.goplususa.com/].

Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Bike — Best folding upright bike for tight closets

Why it stands out: Exerpeutic’s folding magnetic bikes collapse to a small footprint and often come with transport wheels so you can tip and roll them into a closet or nook.
Key strengths: Magnetic resistance (quiet), small folded size, inexpensive replacement parts and solid basic construction.
Who it’s for: Users who want a classic cycling motion without committing floor space.
Where to learn more: Exerpeutic folding bike products and details (manufacturer page) [https://www.exerpeutic.com/collections/folding-bikes].

XTERRA Fitness FB150 — Best mid-range folding exercise bike

Why it stands out: The FB150 is a common entry-level folding bike with a compact footprint and adjustable resistance, suitable for cardio workouts in limited space.
Key strengths: Sturdy feel for the price, simple display console, folds quickly for storage.
Who it’s for: People who want a stable, no-frills bike that tucks away after use.
Where to learn more: XTERRA FB150 product page [https://xterrafitness.com/product/fb150-folding-exercise-bike/].

Cubii SE / Cubii Pro Under-Desk Seated Elliptical — Best compact (non-upright) elliptical for apartments

Why it stands out: Cubii under-desk ellipticals aren’t foldable in the traditional sense, but they’re compact enough to store on a shelf or in a closet between sessions. They provide low-impact cardio while seated and are whisper-quiet.
Key strengths: Extremely space-efficient, quiet, great for multi-tasking (work + low-intensity cardio).
Who it’s for: People who want ultra-low-impact cardio and the ability to use a machine while working or watching TV.
Where to learn more: Cubii official product pages (Cubii SE/Pro) [https://www.cubii.com/].

Stamina InMotion Elliptical / Compact Strider — Best small-footprint foldable/portable elliptical

Why it stands out: Stamina’s compact elliptical/strider models are designed for small spaces; several models are lightweight and store upright or inside a closet. They give a full-leg elliptical motion without the footprint of a full-size cross-trainer.
Key strengths: Compact footprint, light enough to store easily, practical for apartments.
Who it’s for: Users who want the elliptical motion but lack space for a full-size machine.
Where to learn more: Stamina product pages (compact ellipticals & striders) [https://www.staminaproducts.com/].

How to choose the right foldable cardio machine for your apartment

Measure storage space: Measure the closet or under-bed clearance you plan to use, not just open-floor space. Most folding machines store upright or flat; plan accordingly.
Check weight capacity: Make sure the machine’s max user weight and sturdiness match your needs.
Noise matters: If you live in an apartment with shared walls/ceilings, prefer quieter motors and magnetic resistance (for bikes/ellipticals). Under-desk units and compact ellipticals are generally the quietest.
Intended use dictates type:
- Walking/light jogging at home: compact folding treadmills or walking pads.
- Cycling cardio: folding upright bikes or compact folding spin bikes.
- Low-impact, joint-friendly workouts: compact ellipticals or under-desk ellipticals.
Look for easy transport: wheels and a simple latch or SoftDrop system make folding/unfolding painless.
Warranty & support: prioritize brands with clear warranty terms and accessible customer service.

Apartment-friendly setup tips

Use anti-vibration pads to reduce noise and protect floors.
Keep a mat under the machine to catch sweat and reduce slipping.
If noise is an issue, exercise during daytime or choose non-peak hours and consider headphones for guided workouts.