The Bowflex m7 and m5 are two of the most popular elliptical choices in the Bowflex series lineup. Overall, they both provide near-identical features in terms of design and results. However, there are some slight differences between the Bowflex m5 vs m7.
In this comparison of the Bowflex m7 vs m5, we’ll go over everything you need to know so you can see which is better to buy.
Both of these Bowflex elliptical machines offer 2.5 percent better calorie burns when compared to other “regular” elliptical machines.
Apart from that, most other perks like workouts with low impact, 14 minute HIIT training, and better upper body workouts can be experienced on both ellipticals.
However, they differ slightly in several areas that we’ll go through. But before we go into the comparison here’s a quick overview of each Bowflex elliptical
Bowflex M5
Both of these Bowflex elliptical machines offer 2.5 percent better calorie burns when compared to other “regular” elliptical machines.
Apart from that, most other perks like workouts with low impact, 14 minute HIIT training, and better upper body workouts can be experienced on both ellipticals.
However, they differ slightly in several areas that we’ll go through. But before we go into the comparison here’s a quick overview of each Bowflex elliptical
In any case, it has more functionalities in comparison with its predecessor, the m3, be it in terms of a resistance level or warranty. So we can safely recommend it as a great home exercise tool that will be well worth the investment.
Bowflex M7
The Bowflex m7 is the successor of the Bowflex Max Trainer series and offers a slight but noticeable upgrade from the Bowflex M5.
Like the M5 or M3 models, it also comes with the traditional perks like the Zero Impact, faster calorie burns, and the same 2.5% better results than other elliptical trainers. It is smooth to use, and also relatively compact, making it ideal for small spaces or easy storage.
With the Bowflex M7, you will be able to achieve a full-body workout with ease thanks to the 20 levels of resistance it features. Like any other Max trainer series, it is undoubtedly a great purchase for home exercises.
Bowflex Max Trainer M5 vs M7 Comparison.
Both the new Bowflex M5i and M7i are amazing elliptical trainers that we often recommend. But since you can’t buy both, we’ve compared all the key features of each one below. The main areas we’ll be looking at are the consoles, design, workout, and the functionality and results.
Consoles Comparison
The M5 has a backlit, easy to read console. It does the basics of informing the user of the workout stats and programs. Moreover, it also comes with a handy media shelf as well as a calorie burn meter to help with better progress tracking.
The Bowflex M7, on the other hand, has a bigger console, with a Dual-mode LCD enhanced display. In terms of designs, it is sleeker, and the button mapping feels less clunky when compared to M5.
The Media shelf is also placed conveniently above the console. This well thought placement prevents the media device from blocking the stats displayed on the console. Another advantage the Bowflex m7 has over the Bowflex m5 is the user profiles that can be stored on the consoles. The M5i can accommodate two user profiles, while the m7 can store four profiles. This makes the Bowflex m7i a better choice when it comes to larger family usage.
Design Comparison
The Max Trainer M7 is designed to improve on that of the M5. So naturally, it is sleeker and offers more optimal design features when compared to the Bowflex m5. But let’s take a look: The first subtle difference between the m5 vs m7 is that the Bowflex m7 has enhanced grips and also new aero bar hand positions. In contrast, the M5 only features an upgraded, ergonomic handgrip that is a step up from the m3.
This difference means that the M7 has more options for placing your hands in comparison to the m5. Thus, users can freely move hands around the bars for better exercises with the M7.
Moreover, the m7 features sport performance pedals that are an upgrade from the pedals found on the Bowflex max trainer m3i. Nonetheless, both elliptical trainers also have similarities in the design. They both come with a media shelf, water bottle holder, and contact grip heart rate monitors. And they both are Bluetooth enabled.
Workout Resistance and Result
The Bowflex M7i provides 20 levels of resistance. While the M5 has only offered 16 resistance levels. The resistance offered by the Bowflex M5i is excellent. However, the 20 levels you get with the m7 means you’ll be able to perform harder workouts and attain better results. Let’s face it, with the advancement of your fitness levels, you might reach the 16 level cap early on, and a bit more challenge is always good for the health.
In terms of workout programs, the M5 has the Fat Burn, Steady pace, Power Interval, and Calorie Goal. Plus, it also offers the Calorie burn, Fitness test programs, and the 14-minute high interval program.
The M7, on the other hand, has all the above programs, along with a few more, including more HIIT programs. It also has a seven and 21-minute interval programs that aren’t available on the m5i.So practically, in terms of variety, the M7 is still a better choice.
In terms of workout programs, the M5 has the Fat Burn, Steady pace, Power Interval, and Calorie Goal. Plus, it also offers the Calorie burn, Fitness test programs, and the 14-minute high interval program. The M7, on the other hand, has all the above programs, along with a few more, including more HIIT programs. It also has a seven and 21-minute interval programs that aren’t available on the m5i.So practically, in terms of variety, the M7 is still a better choice.
Weight Limit
Both the Bowflex M5i and Bowflex Max Trainer M7i offer a maximum user weight limit of 300 lbs. We’ve found this to be a little above the standard weight limit provided by other elliptical trainers. And since they both have the same weight-bearing capacity, this isn’t a factor to judge them on.
Targeted Performance Programming System
The targeted performance system is a feature exclusive to the M7. It has programming which allows Bowflex M7 Max Trainer to take information like personal fitness goals and levels. Using the system, the M7 will set new priorities and targets to help improve your workout performance. We found this to be a much-needed feature, and it can be very helpful in taking you to the next level.
More Subtle Similarities & Differences
Other subtle differences like warranty and dimensions may or may not be a deal-breaker for which Bowflex max trainer to buy. The M5 is more compact than the Bowflex M7. The M7 comes with a measurement of 124.5 x 77.5 x 166.4 cm. While the M5 measure 117.1 x 63.5 x 159.8 cm, so it is a little smaller. And while not the dimensions aren’t critical, this can make a difference if the workout space is small. Both models provide online tracking and are compatible with the Fitness apps and even have an identical warranty of 3 years for the frame, mechanical parts, and electronics.
What is the Difference between the Bowflex M5 vs. M7?
The only difference is that the Bowflex M7 Max Trainer has 20 levels of resistance and workout programs, while the M5 has 16 levels of resistance.
The M7 also has an upgrader design with a larger LCD console and the ability to store four user profiles. In contrast, the M5’s are smaller and can only store two profiles.
However, the M5 comes with a three-year warranty, while the m7 has 3.
The Bottom line
The Max trainer series are known for their effectiveness in improving your overall fitness levels. Both max trainers are great machines that can help you reach whatever fitness goal you might have. Plus, the M7 and M5 both have compact sizes and come with backlit consoles. Additionally, they both feature online tracking and can sync with the Free App to help track user progress. Apart from that, they both have traditional MAX features and are more or less similar.
But in terms of usability and features, the M7 has better options. Given that it is technically an upgraded M5, it comes with higher resistance levels, performance targeting, and built-in workout routines. Aesthetic wise, the M7 Max looks sleeker and also has more options for upper body movements.
Getting the M7 is an excellent choice if you have family members that will want to use it since it comes with more user profiles to store data. However, the M5 is more affordable and perfect for anyone looking for a max trainer on a budget.
Our preference is the Bowflex Max Trainer M7 or M7i. However, if you want to spend less money, then you’ll still be fine if you purchase the M5.