Proform ZE5 Elliptical

  • Reviewed On: November 30, -0001
  • Reviewed By: Gerard Lao

MSRP: $799, Price As Reviewed: $599, Model Year: 2011

Where To Buy : We Recommend Proform.com

 

Pros

Treadmills411 Editor Comments

13", 15" 18" adjustable stride

The ZE5 comes with adjustable strides.  If there are multiple users in your home and you need to adjust the stride to accommodate the user's height, then this feature is definitely something you should consider. In addition, the adjustable stride can help you focus on certain muscle groups giving you a more efficient and productive workout.

16 programs

The 16 built-in programs in this elliptical can definitely provide you the variety and the challenge that you need to get fitter and healthier. This feature is definitely one of this machine’s strengths since other brands in the same price range only offer 8 programs or even less.

Fans and MP3 player support

You can also find other features like a cooling fan and MP3 player in this elliptical. These features can provide you musical enjoyment and the comfort you need whenever you're working out. 

Comes with oversized pedals

Another important element to consider when buying an elliptical machine is its foot pedals.  Since you're simulating walking, jogging or running in this machine, large or oversized foot pedals will ensure that your foot is in a comfortable position whenever you are working out. It goes without saying that if you feel comfortable, then your work out becomes more efficient.

SpaceSaver folding design

When you're not using this elliptical, you can save up to 3 feet of floor space by simply folding it. This feature would be beneficial if you have a limited space in your room. Not many treadmills come with a folding feature.

 

Cons

Treadmills411 Editor Comments

12 resistance levels only

In ellipticals, if your able to adjust the resistance levels then that means that you are able to control the intensity of your workouts. For this model you are only limited to 12 adjustment options as compared to 16 to 20 resistance levels offered by the majority of elliptical machines available in the market today.

No Brakes warranty

Sadly, the ZE5 doesn't have a separate brakes warranty. Many budget ellipticals offer at least 5 years for brakes but you would have to settle with this model's 1-year parts warranty that also covers its braking system.

Basic Components – 68.5% [View Score Details] [Visit Recommended Merchant]

Quality and Durability – 36.3% [View Score Details] [Visit Recommended Merchant]

Overall Score & Conclusion - 52.4% [View Score Details] [Visit Recommended Merchant]

Category Ranking Criteria Scored As Points Awarded Points Possible Percentage Explanation Notes
Main component Max Stride Length 18" 18 20 90% 13\", 15\", 18\" adjustable stride length based on Amazon decription.
Main component Resistance Levels 12 12 20 60% Elliptical has 12 digital resistance levels.
Main component Max Incline/Ramp None 0 15 0% Elliptical has no incline.
Main component Programs 16 19 25 76% Features 16 built-in workouts.
Main component Fan Yes 10 10 100% Features cooling fan.
Main component Water Bottle Holder Yes 10 10 100% Photo shows bottle holder.
Main component Foot Pedal Motion and Type Ergonomical stride motion/Oversized Pedals 15 30 50% Pedals are oversized.
Main component Handlebar Grips Standard 3 10 30% Elliptical has standard grips only.
Main component Reverse Stride Motion No 3 10 30% Reverse stride feature not stated.
Main component Time Display Yes 5 5 100% Console displays time.
Main component Distance/Strides Display Yes 5 5 100% Console displays distance readout.
Main component Calories Display Yes 5 5 100% ElliptiCal displays calories burned.
Main component Console Design Modern or Intuitive 10 10 100% Features a multi-colored LCD console.
Main component Self Improvement: Fitness Tests/Competition/Goals No/Not Stated 1.5 5 30% None mentioned in product description.
Main component Personalization: User Profiles/Progress Logs/History No/Not Stated 1.5 5 30% No user profiles unless you have the iFit Live module. Sold separately.
Main component Heart Rate Monitor Grip 10 20 50% Elliptical comes with pulse grips heart monitor.
Main component MP3 Player Support Standard 20 20 100% Comes with a compatible music port for iPod.
Main component TV No/Not Stated 5 25 20% TV not stated.
Main component Money Back Guarantee Yes (30 days or less) 15 20 75% Comes with a 30-day money back guarantee from manufacturer.
Main Component Bonus Aesthetics awesome frame aesthetics 5     Simple yet attractive frame design.
Main Component Bonus Adjustable Strides two (three total including original) 7     Stride length varies from 13\", 15\", and 18\".
Main Component Bonus Footprint Compact Design (Less than 52" for length)/Folding 5     Elliptical folds.
    Subtotal 1: 185 270 68.52%  


:
Category Ranking Criteria Scored As Points Awarded Points Possible Percentage Explanation Notes
Quality and reliability Frame warranty 13 to lifetime 25 25 100% Manufacturer warranty is lifetime on frame.
Quality and reliability Brakes warranty 6 years or less 5 10 50% Only has a 1-year parts warranty. No brakes warranty stated.
Quality and reliability Parts warranty 1 year 15 60 25% Parts warranty is 1 years.
Quality and reliability Labor warranty 1 year 20 60 33.33% 1-Year Parts and Labor Warranty.
Quality and reliability Unit Weight (lbs) 125 or less/not stated 5 40 12.5% Machine weight not provided on product description.
Quality and reliability Max User Weight 263 to 275 pounds 17.5 40 43.75% Maximum weight capacity is 275 lbs.
Quality and reliability Flywheel Weight (lbs) not stated, less than 16.5 10 20 50% Comes with a 13-pound inertia enhanced flywheel.
Quality and reliability Bonus Folding yes -5     Comes with a 13-pound inertia enhanced flywheel.
    Subtotal 2 : 92.5 255 36.27%  
    Overall: 277.5 525 52.4%