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#1 Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 Review

Chris L.
January 20, 2021

The Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 offers a ton of great features at half the cost of comparable models. You get plenty of amazing features, such as a powerful fan and cushioned pedals. And if you really want to enhance your workouts, then consider an iFit subscription.

Is the Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 elliptical best for you?

The Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 is an elliptical that's made to give you the precise workout you're looking for. So many of the features are adjustable, including the stride length, which ranges from 20 to 23 inches. Short or tall, you're going to be able to take this device for a good workout session.

You can also take advantage of the digital incline, which allows you to move the track up to 40 degrees. You can really burn the calories at this angle, and you can keep your feet cozy the entire time. The adjustable foot pedals are fully ergonomic to prevent any issues with your joints from exercising all the time.

Consider Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 if...

  • You need ample workout apps. This device comes with 24 preset programs included in the machine. And if you want even more, then you can always sign up for an iFit membership, which this machine is compatible with.
  • You want to keep your hands comfortable. The handlebars come with soft upper-body grips. That means you can hang onto them for a while without your hands feeling stressed.
  • You like easy assembly. The parts of the Audiostrider 990 snap into place, making construction a breeze.

Avoid Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 if...

  • You prefer a quick start button. Unlike other machines, there's no quick start button on this device. That means you can't just hop onboard and start working out. You need to select a preset program first.
  • You don't want limited warranties. You're covered for a lifetime on this elliptical's frame. However, everything else is limited.
  • You don't like paying for extras. A lot of users seem to think this elliptical hits its stride when you pair it with an iFit membership. The only problem is that costs you extra money, meaning this elliptical then becomes a monthly expense.

Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 pros & cons

Pros

  • Incline power ramp
  • iPod dock with speakers
  • Autobreeze workout fan
  • Adjustable stride length

Cons

  • Limited warranty
  • Lacking certain programs

Construction and design

  • Flywheel: The 26-pound flywheel offers ample resistance, putting it on par with the ellipticals you find at the gym.
  • Pedals: The pedals on this machine come cushioned to better support your legs. They're also adjustable so that you're at the most comfortable angle possible.
  • Handlebars: The handlebars come with grips that are soft to the touch. They prevent your hands from cramping as much during your workout, so you can stay on it longer.
  • Console: The console features a blue backlit display that allows you to keep track of all your stats with ease.
  • Resistance: This elliptical comes with silent magnetic resistance to keep operation quiet when it's in motion. It also comes with 16 levels, giving you plenty of room to advance.
  • Built-in Programs/Features: There are 24 workout apps to choose from, but you get even more with iFit.

Key Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 Specs

Pedals
Cushioned
Stride Length
20" - 23"
Heart/Pulse Sensor?
Dual-grip
Resistance
Silent magnetic
Built-in Programs?
24
Max Weight Capacity
325 pounds
Size (Dimensions)
81.5" x 27" x 66"
Foldable?
No
Warranty
Lifetime on frame, 2 years on parts, 1 year on labor

Reasons to buy Nordictrack Audiostrider 990?

  1. You need to save money. This machine comes with a lot of impressive features for its price range. If you're looking to spend $1,000 max on exercise equipment, then this is a great piece to look into.
  2. You like having your music handy. This is one of the friendliest machines out there for music lovers. With an iPod port and built-in speakers, your playlists can blast over the elliptical to get your blood pumping.
  3. You plan on having several people use this machine. Considering you can adjust the stride length and pedals, this machine can be used by many. Everyone in your household is likely going to feel comfortable working out here.

Reasons to avoid Nordictrack Audiostrider 990?

  1. You want a machine that's easier to find. The Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 has been discontinued by the brand. That means you aren't going to find new machines out there, but you may get lucky and find a used one. Just keep in mind that when you buy used, the warranty is null and void.

What real Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 reviews say

We spent 18 hours scouring the web (reading over 253 customer reviews). Our conclusion? Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 receives high praise! Our average consolidated user rating sits around a 4.6 - 4.8 (across several hundred reviews). Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 scored higher, on average, compared to their closest competitors.

What reviewers like

  1. "Great run today and I felt it was easier than the last endurance run."
  2. "One of the best in the series."
  3. "My first full mile after back fusion surgery and both hips replaced."
  4. "Great workout. Heart rate through the roof."
  5. "Really enjoyed this workout...pushes you without overwhelming you...good resistance with the incline."

What reviewers dislike

  1. "The rapidly varying challenge levels and views were interesting, but it realllllly seems misclassified."
  2. "Lack of programs."
  3. "No quick start button."
  4. "This elliptical is extremely heavy."
  5. "The stride length is a bit deceiving. There is no actual stride length adjustments, it is achieved by the ramp moving up or down."

Our verdict

The Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 is a solid choice considering its price point. The amount of variation you can have in relation to stride length and pedal position is something you'd expect out of more expensive models. And if you're willing to pair the device with an iFit membership, you can really take your workouts to the next level.

That being said, the 2-year parts warranty is a bit disappointing. Even a Freemotion elliptical gives you 3 years on parts. Since it's discontinued, you may have a tough time tracking down replacements, so you need to consider if you're willing to take a risk. If you can find one for a good enough deal that still works, then it may be worth it.

Where to buy Nordictrack Audiostrider 990

You may not be able to find a Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 on Amazon, but you can find plenty of other great Nordictrack products for your home gym on the website—plus enjoy Amazon's fast, free shipping.