6 Best Alternatives to the NordicTrack Step Climber (2026)

How alternatives compare to NordicTrack

SOLE CC81 Vertical Climber Stepper

The SOLE CC81 replaces the NordicTrack’s digital resistance with an Eddy Current Brake system. This magnetic approach offers smoother, quieter adjustments without the need for electronic controls. It stands taller at 85.8 inches and weighs 265 pounds, making it significantly larger and heavier than the NordicTrack’s 210-pound frame. You lose the 10-inch HD touchscreen and iFIT connectivity, opting instead for a more traditional, app-connected tracking experience. This model suits users who prioritize joint-friendly vertical climbing mechanics over immersive digital coaching and compact storage. It is a robust choice for those who want durable hardware without monthly membership requirements.

FitNexus 350 lb Vertical Climber

The FitNexus 350 lb Vertical Climber differs sharply by focusing on capacity and space efficiency rather than digital features. It supports up to 350 pounds, exceeding the NordicTrack’s implied standard, while weighing only 27.6 pounds. This makes it far lighter and easier to move than the NordicTrack’s 210-pound frame. It lacks a display, resistance levels, or any connected features, offering a purely mechanical workout. You trade the cushioned pedals and auto-adjusting fan for a compact, budget-friendly design. This option fits users who prioritize stability and small footprints over screen size or automated resistance adjustments. It is ideal for home gyms where space and weight capacity are primary concerns.

GMWD Commercial Stair Stepper

The GMWD Commercial Stair Stepper offers a 660-pound weight capacity, far surpassing the NordicTrack’s standard limits. It features 15 resistance levels and an LED screen, providing essential feedback without the complexity of a large HD touchscreen. The unit is 54 inches long and 77 inches tall, similar in footprint to the NordicTrack but with a focus on commercial-grade durability. You give up the 10-inch display and iFIT integration in exchange for a sturdier build and higher user capacity. This stepper is best for serious users who need robust construction and straightforward controls. It suits those who prioritize weight capacity and screen utility over smart coaching features or compact storage.

Sunny Health & Fitness Curved Step Climber

The Sunny Health & Fitness Curved Step Climber uses a curved, self-powered design, differing from the NordicTrack’s motorized resistance system. It relies on your natural motion for intensity rather than digital resistance levels. Weighing 50.8 pounds, it is lighter than the NordicTrack but still requires a 71.7-inch height clearance. You lose the 10-inch HD touchscreen and automatic adjustments, opting for a more organic stride and app connectivity for tracking. This model fits users who prefer natural movement patterns over guided digital workouts. It is a good choice for those who want a hybrid cardio experience without the bulk of a large screen or the requirement of a subscription service for basic operation.

Body-Solid Vertical Climber

The Body-Solid Vertical Climber is a minimalist option that lacks displays, resistance levels, and digital connectivity. It weighs 48.5 pounds and measures 37 inches in length, making it significantly more portable than the NordicTrack’s 210-pound frame. You trade the cushioned pedals, auto-breeze fan, and large screen for a lightweight, durable structure. This climber is designed for users who prioritize portability and simplicity over advanced features. It suits those who want a sturdy vertical climbing experience without the need for smart tracking or automated adjustments. This model is ideal for users who value ease of storage and basic mechanical functionality over immersive digital training environments.

FEIERDUN SC3 Black Stair Stepper

The FEIERDUN SC3 Stair Stepper matches the GMWD with a 660-pound weight capacity and 15 speed levels. It features an LED screen for basic feedback, replacing the NordicTrack’s 10-inch HD touchscreen. The unit is 54.3 inches long and weighs significantly less than the NordicTrack, though exact weight is not listed. You give up the large display, iFIT integration, and automated resistance adjustments for a focus on durability and high user capacity. This stepper is best for heavy users who need robust construction and straightforward operation. It suits those who prioritize weight capacity and screen utility over smart coaching features or compact storage, offering a commercial-grade feel for home use.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

NordicTrack Step Climber 10" Screen

Best for: Connected training with a large display

Resistance Levels

22 digital levels

Display Type

10-inch HD touchscreen

Form Factor

Vertical Climber

Color

Black

Dimensions

51.3 × 31.2 × 65.5 inches

Weight

210 pounds

View on Amazon: NordicTrack Step Climber 10" Screen

The NordicTrack Step Climber is a vertical climber featuring a 10-inch HD touchscreen and 22 digital resistance levels. It includes oversized cushioned pedals for joint comfort and an AutoBreeze fan that adjusts airflow automatically. Integrated handle controls let you adjust incline and resistance without letting go. This machine suits users who want connected training via iFIT.

Pros

• 10-inch HD touchscreen for streaming workouts
• 22 digital resistance levels for varied intensity
• Oversized cushioned pedals reduce joint impact
• AutoBreeze fan adjusts to workout intensity

Cons

• Requires iFIT Pro Membership for full features
• Heavy at 210 pounds
• Large footprint of 51.3 inches long

Good fit if

• You want a large display for streaming content
• You prefer digital resistance with 22 levels
• You value cushioned pedals for comfort

Skip if

• You want to avoid a monthly membership fee
• You have limited floor space
• You prefer manual resistance adjustments

Verdict: NordicTrack Step Climber 10" Screen offers a connected experience with a large screen and 22 resistance levels. It fits users who prioritize digital coaching and comfortable pedals over standalone operation.

2 Best premium

SOLE CC81 Vertical Climber Stepper

Best for: full-body vertical climbing workouts

Weight Capacity

400 lbs

Resistance Levels

20 levels, ECB

Display Type

5" x 3" LCD

Form Factor

Vertical climber

Intended Use

Home Use

Color

Black

View on Amazon: SOLE CC81 Vertical Climber Stepper

The SOLE CC81 fuses stair climbing with arm drive for a full-body workout. It uses an Eddy Current Brake system with 20 resistance levels and a 25 lb flywheel for smooth, quiet operation. The 5-inch LCD console connects via Bluetooth to the SOLE+ app. Adjustable handlebars and 15-inch cushioned pedals reduce joint impact. This 265-pound machine suits users seeking a hybrid cardio trainer.

Pros

• Eddy Current Brake resistance for smooth, quiet workouts
• 20 resistance levels with a 25 lb flywheel
• Adjustable handlebars with four height settings
• 15-inch cushioned pedals with a 2-degree tilt
• Bluetooth connectivity to the SOLE+ app

Cons

• No remote control included
• Freight delivery with curbside service only
• Heavier build at 265 pounds

Good fit if

• You want a full-body vertical climber
• You prefer quiet, smooth resistance
• You want app integration for tracking

Skip if

• You need a folding machine for small spaces
• You require a lighter unit for easy moving
• You prefer manual resistance without electronics

Verdict: The SOLE CC81 Vertical Climber delivers a robust, hybrid cardio experience with its Eddy Current Brake and adjustable design. It fits users who prioritize joint-friendly movement and app-connected tracking over compact storage.

3 Best budget

FitNexus 350 lb Vertical Climber

Best for: high capacity home cardio

Weight Capacity

350 lb

Resistance Levels

3 levels

Display Type

LCD

Form Factor

Vertical climber, folding

Included Accessories

Phone holder

Intended Use

Home Use

View on Amazon: FitNexus 350 lb Vertical Climber

The FitNexus vertical climber supports up to 350 lbs with a compact footprint measuring 19.6 by 29.9 inches. It features three resistance levels and an LCD display to track your workout metrics. The unit folds for storage and includes a phone holder. This model suits users needing a sturdy, space-saving stepper for home cardio routines.

Pros

• 350 lb weight capacity
• 3 resistance levels
• LCD display
• Foldable design

Cons

• Only 3 resistance levels
• No Bluetooth connectivity
• No heart rate monitoring

Good fit if

• You need a high weight capacity
• You want a foldable machine
• You prefer simple LCD tracking

Skip if

• You require Bluetooth connectivity
• You need more than 3 resistance levels
• You want heart rate monitoring

Verdict: FitNexus 350 lb Vertical Climber offers solid support and compact storage for home gyms. It fits users who prioritize stability and space efficiency over advanced digital features.

4 Also great

GMWD Commercial Stair Stepper

Best for: heavy users needing high capacity

Weight Capacity

660 lbs

Resistance Levels

15 Levels

Stride Length

9 inch step-up height

Display Type

17.3 inch LED Display

Form Factor

Commercial Grade Stair Climber

Intended Use

Home Use, Commercial Grade

View on Amazon: GMWD Commercial Stair Stepper

This GMWD stair stepper is built for heavy use with a 660 lb weight capacity and a 54-inch footprint. It features 15 resistance levels and a 17.3-inch LED display. The machine offers 12 workout programs and supports 24-164 SPM. Its commercial-grade design includes rust-resistant materials and automatic pedal locks. This unit suits users needing high durability and precise tracking for intense cardio sessions.

Pros

• High 660 lbs weight capacity
• 15 adjustable resistance levels
• 17.3-inch LED display
• Automatic pedal lock safety
• 12 preset workout programs

Cons

• Large 54-inch footprint
• No Bluetooth connectivity
• No app integration

Good fit if

• You need a high weight capacity
• You want a large display
• You prefer commercial-grade durability

Skip if

• You have limited floor space
• You require app connectivity
• You want a compact design

Verdict: GMWD Commercial Stair Stepper 660lb offers robust durability and a large display for serious users. It fits those prioritizing capacity and screen size over compactness.

5 Also great

Sunny Health & Fitness Curved Step Climber

Best for: Users seeking natural motion and app connectivity

Weight Capacity

330 lbs

Stride Length

28-inch, 4 incline angles

Display Type

LCD

Connectivity

Bluetooth, SunnyFit App

Included Accessories

Handlebar

Form Factor

Vertical Climber

View on Amazon: Sunny Health & Fitness Curved Step Climber

This curved step climber offers a 28-inch stride path for a natural climbing motion. It features four incline angles to shift muscle focus and a fixed handlebar for stability. The unit includes Bluetooth connectivity and an LCD monitor for tracking time, steps, and calories. It supports the SunnyFit app for connected training. With a 330-pound weight capacity, it suits home gym users seeking varied intensity.

Pros

• 28-inch curved stride path for natural motion
• 4 incline angles for customizable intensity
• Bluetooth connectivity and SunnyFit app support
• 330-pound weight capacity

Cons

• Fixed handlebars limit upper body engagement
• Heart rate monitor not included
• Large footprint at 54.7 inches long

Good fit if

• You want a longer stride for comfort
• You prefer app-guided workouts
• You need adjustable incline levels

Skip if

• You have limited floor space
• You want included heart rate sensors
• You need portable folding design

Verdict: Sunny Health Long Stride Curved Step Climber fits users who prioritize a natural stride and app integration over portability or included biometric sensors.

6 Also great

Body-Solid Vertical Climber

Best for: Lightweight, durable vertical climbing

Display Type

Multi-functional display

Form Factor

Vertical Climber

Intended Use

Home Use, Commercial Grade

Color

Black

Dimensions

37 × 20 × 85.5 inches

Weight

48.5 pounds

View on Amazon: Body-Solid Vertical Climber

The Body Solid Maxi Climber is a vertical climber designed for full-body workouts. It weighs 48.5 pounds and measures 85.5 inches tall. The frame uses heavy-duty alloy steel for stability. You get a multi-functional display to track time, distance, and calories. Adjustable height settings allow you to customize the stride for your body. It is a compact option for home or commercial use.

Pros

• Weighs only 48.5 pounds for easy storage
• Heavy-duty alloy steel frame ensures stability
• Multi-functional display tracks time, distance, and calories
• Adjustable height accommodates different body sizes

Cons

• No Bluetooth connectivity for app integration
• No heart rate monitoring sensors included
• Basic multi-functional display lacks advanced metrics

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight climber under 50 pounds
• You want a commercial-grade machine for home use
• You prefer a simple display for basic tracking

Skip if

• You require Bluetooth connectivity for app tracking
• You need heart rate monitoring sensors
• You want a machine with a digital screen

Verdict: Body Solid Maxi Climber Vertical Climber is a solid choice for those who prioritize portability and durability over digital features. It fits users who want a sturdy, lightweight vertical climber without the need for smart tracking.

7 Best 660 lb capacity

FEIERDUN SC3 Black Stair Stepper

Best for: Heavy users seeking durable cardio

Weight Capacity

660 lbs

Resistance Levels

15 speed levels

Display Type

LED

Form Factor

Vertical Forward Movement

Intended Use

Home Use, Commercial Grade

Color

Black

View on Amazon: FEIERDUN SC3 Black Stair Stepper

The FEIERDUN SC3 is a commercial-grade stair stepper designed for home gyms. It features 15 adjustable resistance levels, allowing speeds from 24 to 164 steps per minute. The machine supports up to 660 pounds, making it suitable for heavier users. An LED monitor tracks time, calories, and pulse. Its compact footprint and 90% pre-assembled design simplify setup and space management.

Pros

• 660-pound weight capacity for heavy-duty use
• 15 speed levels ranging from 24 to 164 steps per minute
• LED monitor displays time, steps, and pulse
• 90% pre-assembled for easy setup

Cons

• No Bluetooth connectivity mentioned in specifications
• No smartphone app integration listed
• LED display lacks advanced workout metrics

Good fit if

• You need a high weight capacity for heavy use
• You want adjustable speed levels for varied intensity
• You prefer a pre-assembled unit for quick setup

Skip if

• You require smartphone app connectivity
• You need Bluetooth heart rate monitoring
• You want a machine with advanced digital metrics

Verdict: FEIERDUN SC3 Stair Stepper offers a robust 660-pound capacity and 15 speed levels for serious home cardio. It fits users prioritizing durability and straightforward operation over digital connectivity.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best NordicTrack exercise bikes
• lg 10 alternatives