If you want to build cardiovascular strength, tone your lower body (especially thighs and buttocks), and burn some fat (calories) to keep yourself in shape, climbing stairs is among the best exercises.
But the problem with this exercise is that most people don’t find lots of stairs to climb, and even if they do (for example, in the office), they wouldn’t have time to climb the stairs at that time.
If this is the case, mini stair stepper machines can be extremely beneficial. Exercising with a compact stair climber machine is a low-cost and portable way to do stair climbing exercises anytime and anywhere.
My reason for publishing this article is to help you choose the right mini stair stepper because there are lots of fitness equipment brands in the USA that sell these machines with lots of features and designs that may confuse you.
Here, we have listed some of the best mini stair steppers that will help you achieve your desired fitness goals.
But before we start listing them, let’s discuss the features that you should look for before buying any mini stepper. We will also discuss the types of mini stair steppers available in the USA in the last section of this article.
# # # IF YOU ARE IN a HURRY & HAVE NO TIME to READ then,
The sunny mini stair stepper is the best choice for you. It comes with an LCD screen to monitor your performance, an inclination setting to adjust the resistant levels, removable resistant bands, and lots of other useful features.
Table of Contents
1) How to Choose the Right Mini Stair Stepper Machines for Home Use?
To reap the real benefits of stair steppers, choosing the right mini stair stepper machine is crucial. That’s why here I am giving a detailed buying guide.
I am sure this buying guide will help you choose the best mini stair steppers.
Let’s start.
1) Anti-slip Foot Pads
Foot pads are the part of the stepper machine on which you put your feet. And both of them must have textured surfaces so that you can safely put your feet without worrying about slippage.
Good mini stepper equipment uses rubber pads which are considered very safe. So, before you make a purchase, ensure these pads are not slippy.
All the machines listed in this article have anti-slip foot pads so you can buy any of them without worrying about slippage.
2) Weight Withstanding Capacity
When you are to buy mini stepper machines, the weight limit that the machine can withstand is worth noting. Because if a person with extremely heavy weight uses the machine, it can be broken.
So, ensure the limit of weight that the machine can hold. All the small steppers we have mentioned here can withstand up to 220 – 330 pounds of weight.
3) Height & Inclination Setting
If you want to customize the resistance of the stair climbing exercise, you need a stepper machine that provides you with different height and inclination settings.
If you increase the height or inclination (or both), resistance will increase and when you lower the height, resistance will decrease. Here, most of the equipment have variable height setting. (from 8″ to 12.5″)
4) Weight of the Machine
If you are looking for a mini stair climbing machine that means you will mostly use it at your home. And for that its weight should be minimal.
In the USA, most mini steppers are lightweight (between 12-30 pounds) but still, you should ensure it. Otherwise, you will have difficulties while moving them.
5) Convenient and Smooth Exercise Experience
It is among the major factors that you will need to check. If the exercise session is not smooth, your knees get injured while exercising. So check whether the machine is providing a smooth exercise experience or not.
And one of the best ways to do so is to check whether the stepper uses a hydraulic drive system or not. This system absorbs the extra shock that is created during stair-climbing exercise on a stepper and ensures a smooth and convenient exercise.
Now, let’s have a look at the best mini stair stepper machines being sold in the United States.
2) List of the Best Mini Stair Steppers to Buy in the USA
Here is the curated list of top mini stair stepper machines being sold in the United States. We have listed these machines based on their performance, design, features, electricity consumption, etc.
1) Sunny health and fitness mini stair stepper
If you are looking for the best mini stepper machine that comes with a compact design, lightweight body, twisting motion feature, LCD screen, and resistance bands, then you can consider this stepper machine.
Product Overview
Sunny’s mini stepper comes with an amazing look as well as amazing features. It includes an LCD monitor that can track how long it took you to complete the stair steps (reps per minute). It also measures the calories you spend during the exercise, which really makes your exercise effective and intentional.
It also includes resistance bands that help you build muscle (approx 20 types of muscles) while doing the stair climbing exercise on the machine. You can also remove these resistant bands and tone your upper body muscles too.
It also includes an easy-to-use knob using which you can adjust the height. It helps you customize your workout and lets you perform longer or shorter strides. Foot pedals are larger and wider in size and have a textured, non-slip surface. So you don’t have to worry about slipping during the workout.
Here, you have to note that this machine doesn’t come with handles, which makes it less compatible with older people. It already comes with 1 LR44 battery so you don’t need to buy it externally.
Since its body is made up of steel, it is durable for long time use.
This fitness equipment uses a hydraulic drive system that provides a smooth and consistent workout experience. This machine is light in weight, which increases its portability.
Thanks to its hydraulic piston cylinders, you can easily adjust its inclination setting between 1 and 12. So you can work on almost all the lower body muscles. Since it is foldable, it can easily be stored even in your small room.
The Other Useful Information
- Product Dimension: 16 x 12.5 x 13.5 inches
- Product Weight: 15.2 pounds
- Weight Limit: 220 pounds
Pros & Cons of Sun Health & Fitness Mini Stepper
Pros
- You can customize your workout
- You can target approximately 20 muscles
- Lightweight
- Foldable
- High weight-bearing capacity
- Non-slip foot grips
Cons
- Limited resistant levels
- Doesn’t come with handles
2) Women’s Health Men’s Health Bluetooth Mini Stepper
If smoothness during stair climbing exercise is your first priority then you should go for this mini stepper.
Product Overview
The Women’s Health Men’s Health cardio mini stepper machine comes with three height adjustment points (8″, 10″, and 12.5″). This also includes a resistance band, using which you can tone your upper body too. It is compact in size, so it can fit even if you have less storage available in your home.
It also includes Bluetooth to connect with the MyCloudFitness app. This app allows you to track your workout performance. This app includes on-demand fitness videos that help you get the best results from this equipment.
You can also access this app on your TV (of course, it is compatible with Android and iOS too), so you can easily watch those exercise videos on big screens.
Unlike other mini cardio stair steppers mentioned in this list, this machine comes with an actual step motion instead of a swivel motion, which provides you with less impact on the knees and more calories burned during exercise.
It also has an LCD display screen where you can see the calories burned, total steps taken, and stair steps per minute.
The Other Useful Information
- Product Dimension: 23 x 16 x 19 inches
- Product Weight: 30.9 pounds
- Weight Limit: 250 pounds
Pros & Cons of The Women’s Health Men’s Health Mini Cardio Stepper
Pros
- Can withstand up to 250 pounds
- Equipped with advanced features like Bluetooth, personal app, etc
- Includes resistant band
- Step motion instead of swivel motion
Cons
- Heavyweight decreases its portability
- Bigger in dimension than peer products
- No handles are given
3) Sportsroyals Mini Stair Climber
If you want to buy a mini stepper machine with high weight capacity, this is the best choice. Even a person with a weight of 330 pounds can exercise with it. And I don’t think there are any other mini steppers available in the United States with this much weight withstand capacity.
Product Overview
This model is the updated version of the Sportsroyals mini stair climber. In this machine, 2 mm high-quality precision bearings are used instead of a traditional cable pulley.
Like other mini steppers listed in this article, this stepper also includes resistance bands that help you build your arms, back, chest, and shoulders. So along with cardiovascular exercise, you can also tone the upper body muscles.
It is equipped with a European-standard hydraulic cylinder strengthening system for the stair-stepping fitness machine. It allows you to enjoy your workout without disturbing others with the vibration and noise.
It includes a powerful but smooth spring that protects the joints and provides a convenient exercise experience. This portable cardio stepper includes wide, oversized pedals with a silicone anti-slip pad as well as skid-resistant floor protectors that help you maintain balance during exercise.
The four rubber cushions that come with this machine keep it quiet while you exercise. They also protect the floor from scuffs and scratches whenever you move the machine.
It also includes an LED monitor that can record exercise time, total calories burned, distance covered, etc. This data can really help you plan your upcoming workouts. Its wide and sturdy structure keeps the machine stable on the surface.
The Other Useful Information
- Product Dimension: 20.49 x 19.07 x 10.01 inches
- Product Weight: 24.58 pounds
- Weight Limit: 330 pounds
Pros & Cons of Sportsroyals Mini Cardio Stepper
Pros
- The V-shaped frame makes exercise easy
- Heavyweight withstand capacity
- Quiet and smooth exercise
- Anti-slip silicon pads and rubber cushions for safety
Cons
- No handles included
4) BalanceFrom Adjustable Stepper Machine
If you are a frequent traveler and want to carry a stepper machine with you, this is the right mini stepper machine for you. It is very compact and lightweight than its peer products which makes it a very portable stepper machine. It is also among the best budget options for mini stair stepper machines.
Product Overview
Most of the functionalities (even the material is the same) that the BalanceFrom adjustable compact stepper offers are similar to my other mini stepper options listed in this article, but what forced me to include it in this list is its price. It is so budget-friendly that almost everyone can easily afford it.
Its body is built from high-quality steel with aircraft-quality cables that can withstand the weight of 300 lbs. You can adjust the step height using a handy knob provided at the front of the frame of the machine. This equipment also includes removable resistance bands attached to metal D-rings.
The distance between the two footplates is narrow and comes with a textured surface that prevents you from slipping and keeps you safe during workouts.
Like all other stepper machines, it also comes with an LCD monitor that helps you measure steps done, the time elapsed, total steps, and the calories you burned during exercise. So you can also track the overall progress of your workout.
The only problem with this screen is that it is small, but you can still easily read the data since it is placed directly underneath your feet.
The frame of this equipment includes hardened anti-slip plastic feet that keep the unit stable on the surface on which it is placed. You can also adjust the height to your liking and needs. Thanks to its hydraulic resistance design, you get a smooth and stable stepping experience.
The Other Useful Information
- Product Dimension: 16.5 x 13.7 x 8.8 inches
- Product Weight: 15 pounds
- Weight Limit: 300 pounds
Pros & Cons of BalanceFrom Mini Stepper
Pros
- Heavyweight bearing capacity
- Compact and lightweight
- Safe and secure to use
- Allows you to track your progress
- Smooth exercise experience
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Screen is smaller
- Frame feet are made up of plastic rather than rubber
5) Nordic Lifting Mini Stepper & Stair Climber Machine
If you are looking for portable, small foot-stepper workout equipment that allows you to do full cardio workouts without taking up too much space in your home, then this machine can be your best buy.
Product Overview
The Nordic Lifting Mini Stepper and Stair Climber Machine are developed using a combination of high-quality steel and hardened plastic. So even a user with 286 pounds of weight can use this equipment. Its central frame column is taller so that you can feel extra resistance (just like climbing the taller stairs) during your workout.
This device is equipped with a non-slip dotted rubber mat, a strong balance bar drive, and a hydraulic cylinder. These features are enough to ensure your safety and security during the workout.
Thanks to its sturdy central balance bar with a hydraulic drive cylinder, you will get a smooth stair-climbing experience.
The Nordic Lifting stepper machine comes with three different levels of resistance bands ranging from 15 to 25 pounds, allowing you to maximize your upper body workout while exercising on the stepper.
The resistance band included with this machine comes with D-ring handles that allow you to keep a firm grip. This compact foot stepper machine is lightweight and compact (even with its increased height), so you can easily bring it with you.
Along with all of these, it also includes a small LCD screen at the center of the frame. It helps a lot in monitoring the number of strides per minute, total strides, and calories burned.
One of the advantages of this model is that it comes with a magnetic induction module, which provides more accurate data. So, you can track your progress more precisely.
The Other Useful Information
- Product Dimension: 11.5 x 16.5 x 7.9 inches
- Product Weight: 16.53 pounds
- Weight Limit: 286 pounds
Pros & Cons of Nordic Lifting Mini Foot Stepper
Pros
- Can withstand heavy weight
- Lightweight
- Resistant bands with D-ring handles
- Provides smooth and safe exercise experience
- Comes with a sturdy balance bar
Cons
- No height adjustment option
6) Stamina Inmotion Elliptical Compact Stair Climber
If you are looking for a compact cardio stepper that you can use even while sitting, this elliptical stair climber by Stamina Inmotion is the best choice.
Product Overview
The Stamina Inmotion Elliptical machine can be used while sitting, standing, or even in reverse motion. This is best for people who have been advised bed rest but still want to do some exercise to keep their bodies refreshed.
This compact and lightweight mini foot stepper are one of the most portable pieces of stair stepper equipment. This machine also comes with resistance tubes that help you tone your shoulders, chest, arms, and back.
There is a dial on the front frame of this machine that helps you change the intensity of your workout. (You can check the intensity level on the display given.)
This striding machine has a reverse movement option that allows you to pedal in the opposite direction to target different lower-body muscle groups.
With this machine, you also get smart audio and video coaching that helps you learn the types of exercises you can do using this stepper equipment. This machine is compatible with a user having a weight of up to 250 pounds.
The Other Useful Information
- Product Dimension: 18″D x 24″W x 12″H
- Product Weight: 24 pounds
- Weight Limit: 250 pounds
Pros & Cons of Stamina Inmotion Compact Stair Climber
Pros
- Comes with audio and video lessons
- Change resistance with a single knob
- Reverse paddling is possible
- Includes resistance tubes with it
Cons
- No height adjustment setting is available
- Can’t withstand more than 250 pounds of weight
7) Loctek FP1 Mini Stepper Swivel Elliptical Trainer
We can’t complete our list of the best mini stair steppers without mentioning Loctek FP1. It is among the highest-selling mini steppers in the United States. If you are looking for a compact and lightweight small stepper machine for home use, it can be a great choice.
Product Overview
This stepper machine is so compact that you can even put it in a corner or under your table. It is the lightest stepper machine on our list.
Loctek’s FP1 mini stepper machine allows you to burn 350–400 calories within 40 minutes of a workout. By increasing the intensity, you can even burn 600–700 calories in 40 minutes.
This is a low-impact mini stepper that ensures that your joints and muscles are not injured during the workout. And you can practice a good cardio workout safely.
It can withstand 220 pounds of weight. Also, this machine comes with an LCD display that can measure and track your total count, time, calories burned, rep count, etc.
The Other Useful Information
- Product Dimension: 19.02 x 17.01 x 12.99 inches
- Product Weight: 12 pounds
- Weight Limit: 220 pounds
Pros & Cons of Loctek FP1 Mini Cardio Stepper
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Durable even for frequent use
- Sturdy on the surface so safe to use
- Compact design
- Durable steel frame
Cons
- Can’t withstand the weight of more than 100 kg
These are some of the best-rated mini stair steppers being sold in the United States. Now, we will discuss the advantages of using these compact but effective stair climber machines.
3) Types of Mini Stair Steppers Available in the United States
In the USA, there are two types of small stair steppers for home use. Here, I will tell you about them which will help you choose the most suitable stair steppers for you.
1) Mini Stair Steppers with Handles
These types of stair-climbing equipment come with handles that you can hold during exercises. Such machines are considered safe because handles prevent you from falling off.
These equipment are very good and supportive for older people. The only problem with these machines is that they are very costly (usually starting from $200). So if you are thinking to buy mini stair steppers with handles, make sure you have enough budget.
Handles also prevent you from training your upper body during the exercise.
2) Mini Stair Steppers without Handles
These types of mini steppers are affordable so even if you don’t have a large budget, you can buy them. Here, all the cardio mini steppers listed in this article come without handles.
Though they don’t come with handles, all of them include removable resistant bands using which you can tone your upper body muscles while exercising on a stepper machine.
4) What are the Benefits of Using Home Mini Stair Steppers?
Stair stepper equipment is among the most common equipment that you will find in any gym. Mini stepper machines are compact variants of large steppers so that you can easily use them at your home.
These machines are used to train your lower body muscles. They are mostly used by people who are wanting to lose weight and keep their bodies in shape.
People wanting to increase their cardiovascular strength are also advised to exercise of stepper machines
If you regularly use them, you can
- Tone your lower body muscles such as the glutes and hamstring
- Tone your buttocks
- Strengthen your lower spine
- Build your stamina
- Improve your cardiovascular fitness
These are some of the advantages of exercising with stepper machines. Now, let;s understand how to use these machines in the right way.
5) How to Use a Small Stair Stepper Correctly?
Using the stair stepper machine incorrectly can lead to injury. That’s the reason you should know how to use it correctly. Here are the steps that you should follow to use the small stair stepper correctly.
- Look for a suitable, flat, solid surface on which you can place the stepper machine safely.
- Then adjust the height and resistance level of the stepper as per your needs and comfort.
- Slowly get onto your mini cardio stepper. First, put your leg on the lower paddle of the machine so that it can’t move around much when you apply pressure to it.
- Then put all your weight on the bottom step, and then put your second leg on the other paddle. (If your stepper includes a balance bar, then use it before getting on the stepper.)
- Then slowly start applying pressure on the top foot and, at the same time, release the pressure from the bottom foot.
- If you get used to these steps, you can also start toning your lower body using the resistance band.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Is a mini stepper machine worth buying?
Yes, they are worth buying. If you want to perform stair-climbing exercises at your home, you should give this machine a try.
2) Is practicing mini stepper better than walking?
The walking can’t stimulate the number of muscles that can be trained by mini stepper. With these machines, you can target 20 types of muscles so according to me, practicing mini stepper is better than walking. However, both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
3) Are mini steppers effective?
The mini stepper is among the best fitness equipment that can help you target your lower body muscles at home. It is also recommended to people who are advised to practice walking or stair climbing.
Conclusion
Here, we have got covered you with the best mini stair steppers that are being sold in the United States. These machines are the best to increase your stamina and fitness (especially your cardiovascular fitness). You can also use them if you are aiming for weight loss.
Here, all the stepper machines we have listed are top-rated and among the highest-sold stepper machines in the USA. If you have any questions regarding these machines, you can ask me in the comment box.
If you like our curated list, share it with the people who are wondering to buy the top mini stepper machine. Thanks for reading…!!!
