Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 vs 1490 – What’s the Difference?

Audiostrider 990 Elliptical Vs 1490 Elliptical Comparison

 

 

 

The 990 and 1490 are the only current elliptical trainers in the Nordictrack’s Audiostrider series (there are older Audiostrider elliptical models kicking around in some stores, but Nordictrack itself has discontinued them).

The Nordictrack 990 Audiostrider is really the one that started it all a few years back. Coming in under $1000, it was an affordable crosstrainer. Plus it added in an iPod dock and incline – two features that, at the time anyway – were unheard of in a crosstrainer at that price point.

 

 

Not surprisingly, the 990 raked in a lot of “Best Buy” awards. Since then, it gets updated every year (and still usually wins a few awards).

The 1490 is Nordictrack’s premium update on the 990 model. It has many of the same features as the 990 but with some premium upgrades like a web browser and in-handle controls.

 

 

Here’s a brief comparison of these two ellipticals (For full reviews of each visit Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 or Nordictrack Audiostrider 1490)

 

Where They ‘re Similar:

 

#1 Fold Up

Both trainers fold up to save you space and can easily be stored away in a corner or a closet.

This makes them a great choice if you have limited workout space.

 

#2 iPod Docks with Speakers

They both offer an iPod port so you can plug in your iPod or iPhone and play your favorite tunes.

 

#3 iFit LIVE

While they do vary a bit in iFit display (see below), both trainers do come iFit LIVE compatible.

 

So you can download unlimited new workouts, track your workout progress online and map out new trails to run using Googlemaps.

 

#4 Incline

Both trainers have power incline from 0 t0 10 degrees.

So you can change up your crosstraining and work different muscle groups.

 

#5 Adjustable Pedals

Both trainers come with 3 different toe-heel angles so that you can customize the workout to your preferred feel.

 

 

Where They’re Different

 

#1 Full Color Web Browser

The 1490 steps up to a full-color web browser. The console on the 990 does not have a web browser and is only dual-color.

So that’s a pretty big upgrade. You can surf the net, read your emails or watch Youtube videos as you workout.

This makes a huge difference for many people in how much they enjoy their workout time.

 

#2 In-Handle Controls.

The 1490 comes with incline and resistance controls on the handrails. So you don’t have to reach up to the console (and break your stride) to adjust these things. The 990 does not have in-handle controls.

 

#3 Wireless Heart Rate Monitor

The 1490 comes with a free wireless heart rate monitor. Many people prefer this as it tends to be more accurate. Also, it’s more convenient because you don’t have to continually grasp the hand sensors to get a read.

 

#4 Longer Warranty

The 1490 gives you a bit more warranty protection (3 years parts vs 2 years) than the 990 (which is what you would expect for a higher price point).

 

#5 iFit LIVE Built-In

Because of the web browser, you don’t need to buy an extra iFit LIVE module for the 1490 (which you do have to buy for the 990 if you want to use iFit). That saves you about $99.

 

 

(However note that you still need to buy the iFit LIVE subscription for both ellipticals which is around $99 a year).

So those are the main differences between the Nordictrack Audiostrider 990 and the Nordictrack Audiostrider 1490 ellipticals. To compare both ellipticals at the official website click here.

Click here for more information on the 990 or 1490 elliptical trainers.