Comparison Star Trac E-TC vs Matrix S1x

The maximum weight of the user for which the machine is designed, in other words, the maximum weight of the athlete, at which the stepper is guaranteed to work the amount of time stated in the characteristics without the risk of breakage. This parameter must be adhered to as accurately as possible, do not be mistaken about the fact that 3-5 kg over the calculated weight will not affect the design. Yes, most likely, the stepper will be able to work for some time. But it will experience loads exceeding the calculated ones, and at best it will fail earlier than expected, and at worst it may break at the most unfortunate moment, which is fraught with injuries. In addition, this case is usually not covered by the manufacturer's warranty, and you will have to eliminate the consequences at your own expense.

The number of predetermined load levels (pedal resistance during movement) provided in the design of the stepper. The more such levels, the wider the possibilities for adjusting the load and the more accurately you can adjust it to certain requirements. At the same time, the abundance of adjustments accordingly affects the price.

The number of training programs provided in the design of the stepper. Different programs have different purposes — strengthening the cardiovascular system, maintaining physical fitness, burning fat, etc. At the same time, the operation of the program relieves you of the need to manually set the parameters — this is done by the machine itself. Accordingly, the more training programs, the wider the possibilities of the stepper and the more convenient the training. And some models may even provide the possibility of custom programs.

— Handlebar controls. The control buttons for training modes are placed on the handles of the stepper. With their help, you can change the load without stopping the training. However, the control options in each model may be different.

— Expanders. Steppers can be equipped with mounts for expanders. This solution allows you to increase the number of exercises available with the machine: training the arms and upper body provides a complex load — after all, the stepper itself loads only the legs. In most models , expanders are included.

— Torso twist (twister). To turn the body, a hinged platform is used, which is called a twister. And so that the user does not lose balance, the machine usually provides a stand with handrails. Exercises with twists of the torso allow you to strengthen the muscles of the back and abs.

— Fan. The stepper has its own fan. This feature is useful for cooling during intense workouts, especially in warm weather.

— Bottle holder. The presence of a special stand in the design of the stepper, on which you can put a bottle or a glass. Thus, you will always have a supply of water at hand, and to replenish its amount in the body you will not have to be distracted from training with the machine.

— Colour screen.... The presence of a colour screen in the design of the stepper. This function does not affect the main features of the stepper. However, such displays are considered more convenient and pleasant to view than monochrome ones.

— Bluetooth. The presence of a Bluetooth wireless module allows the stepper to be synchronized with the user's smartphone, tablet or laptop/PC. Thanks to data synchronization, the user will be able to control the results of training in a convenient form. Additionally, Bluetooth wireless communication can be used to download new training programs to the machine's computer, and synchronize with the heart rate monitor via the ANT protocol.

— USB port. USB can be used to connect heart rate sensors and other specialized accessories, to play music and/or video from external media, to update the firmware using the same media, etc.

— mini-Jack 3.5 mm (Aux). The audio jack is designed to connect an MP3 player or smartphone/tablet and output sound from devices to the speakers built into the simulator.

— Speakers. The presence in the design of the stepper's speakers. Music can be played through them, as well as various service messages.

— Tablet stand. Allows you to securely and safely mount a tablet with almost any screen size on the machine. Thanks to this, the user can enjoy watching TV shows or movies directly during training.

Dimensions of the equipment are assembled and ready for operation. It is important to note that in reality, more space is needed for comfortable and proper operation of the simulator.