We review more folding treadmills than non-folding treadmills because they fit your home space better. If you don’t have a large permanent location to accommodate a treadmill’s full-size, these are the treadmills you’ll want to check out. One thing we’ve learned as treadmill experts is how easy it is to move a folding treadmill compared to a non-folding treadmill.
There are very few differences between what a folding treadmill can provide and what a non-folding treadmill can provide. We encounter a decline option on folding treadmills more frequently than on non-folding treadmills. Folding treadmills are for the practical treadmill shopper who might not have the space or budget to accommodate anything more.
Yet, not all folding treadmills are created equally. There are also different folding mechanisms and a lot of variation from one folding treadmill to another. Our list of the best folding treadmills chooses our top contenders among treadmills we’ve tested firsthand.
We ended every sweat session on these machines by folding them up and tucking them out of the way. We can confidently say that moving a folding treadmill is a skill. When you first get your folding treadmill, tilting it and rolling it (the most common method) might feel challenging at first. Take it from us that you get the hang of it very quickly!
Sole F85 Treadmill
What We Like:
- The 15.6″ touch screen offers included workouts, screen mirroring, and app streaming
- The 4.0 HP motor is powerful and handles up to 375 lbs
- The deck inclines 15 levels and declines six levels
- The foldable deck is easy to use, and the treadmill itself can be pushed around when you need to move it
- The 22″ x 60″ long deck is perfect for all strides, and this treadmill can handle a lot of use
Areas For Improvement:
- The screen isn’t adjustable and is harder to reach while running
- The fan isn’t very effective
With a new, updated design and features, the F85 is one of our top recommended models, especially for a high-quality treadmill that folds up. You only need to pull the yellow handle on the back to unfold the deck. Plus, when you fold it up, the hydraulic system helps you lift it. Once folded, the transportation wheels make it so you can push the F85 where you need it.
One of the biggest reasons we love the Sole F85 is the powerful 4.0 HP motor and 375 lb weight limit. This treadmill can handle pretty much anything you put it through, and it is great for larger runners. It’s also heavy itself at 319 lbs, but you wouldn’t know that by how easily it folds up and moves. The large 22″ x 60″ running surface is great for most running strides.
The 15.6″ touchscreen is great for viewing all of the F85’s included features. From plenty of onboard workouts, fitness tests, and app streaming from Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max, the Sole F85 incorporates a lot of entertainment and workout options. You can even screen mirror your phone if the preloaded 12 apps aren’t enough to satisfy.
All of this is packed into a durable, solid, and easy-to-use treadmill. Plus, the motor moves up to 12 mph, and the deck inclines to 15 levels and declines six levels, so you’ll never get bored during your killer workouts!
Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole F85.
Interested in the Sole F85?
NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill
What We Like:
- Great all-around treadmill with a 20″ wide by 60″ long deck
- Folds up when you are finished!
- Locks securely into place when folded
- Features updated tech and features
- Consistently one of the best-selling, most popular treadmills
- We love the combination of features and price on a folding frame
Areas For Improvement:
- iFIT requires a monthly subscription after the first 30 days
- The 14″ touchscreen may be a bit small for some users
The Nordictrack 1750 is consistently one of the best-selling treadmills because it offers great training content on a cushioned treadmill that folds and locks into place. We refer to this as our favorite all-around treadmill. It’s good at pretty much everything and is well-powered and functional. It’s for those who want a folding treadmill with a great performance record.
The NordicTrack 1750 features iFIT training on a super adjustable 14″ touchscreen. In addition to tilting up and down depending on your height, the screen pivots to either side so you can see the screen off the treadmill. It is great when you’re taking an iFIT class off the treadmill.
With a subscription to iFIT, you’ll get access to thousands of workouts led by knowledgeable instructors who are there to provide guidance and motivation. Classes take place indoors and outdoors, so you have ample content to choose from. The outdoor classes are our favorite because they’re filmed worldwide.
Another feature we love about the 1750 is the soft cushioning. For those with joint pain and issues, running on the 1750 is ideal. NordicTrack treadmills have some of the softest cushioning we’ve tested, and the 1750 is no exception.
The 3.5 CHP motor is quiet and capable of handling a lot of use. Plus, the folding mechanism makes the deck easier to lift and lower. It is a great folding treadmill with a nice combination of features that hits that sweet spot!
Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack 1750.
Interested in the NordicTrack 1750?
Horizon T101 Treadmill
What We Like:
- Very affordable and great for walking
- Quiet and capable 2.5 CHP motor is best for light to moderate use
- The deck is well-cushioned for an entry-level treadmill
- The deck uses a hydraulic assist to give you support when folding and unfolding
- The console doesn’t require a subscription to access the included workouts
- It is a compact, lightweight treadmill that still supports up to 300 lbs
Areas For Improvement:
- The console has less tech than others
- There isn’t wireless heart rate tracking available; only pulse grips
We love the Horizon T101 Treadmill because it is affordable, well-made, and great for walking. In our opinion, it is the best folding treadmill for walking. Between the 20″ wide by 55″ long deck that features nice cushioning for an entry-level model and a 2.5 CHP motor, the T101 is an all-around impressive little treadmill.
If you have a long-running stride, you might be unable to jog and run on the deck, but this size is excellent for walking. You also get a 10% incline and 10 mph max speed to run and incline as desired.
Even though the Horizon T101 is still a substantial treadmill at 180 lbs and capable of handling up to 300 lbs of user weight, it is easy to move and fold up. The deck incorporates a hydraulic system, so you get assistance when folding and unfolding the deck. I can even lift the deck to fold with just one hand.
The T101 has a simple console that has less tech than other treadmills, but it tracks everything you need, such as calories, distance, heart rate, incline, speed, and time. The console also has workout programs to follow along with. For a well-priced walking treadmill that’s comfortable, quiet, and functional to use, check out the Horizon T101 Treadmill.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon T101.
Interested in the Horizon T101?
ProForm Pro 900 Treadmill
What We Like:
- 22″ touchscreen is crisp with impressive graphics
- iFIT classes offer various types of training in locations all over the world
- The deck is comfortable, foldable, and compact
- Suitable for walking, hiking, jogging, and running
- Excellent for users of all ability levels
Areas For Improvement:
- The 300-lb weight limit isn’t best for larger users
- There is a little shaking of the screen when running at high speeds
The ProForm Pro 9000 has been updated to be more compact but still provides great training content. It is a fully folding treadmill, so you still get 20″ of width and 60″ of length on a folding frame. The deck will lift and lock against the console for security when folded.
The Pro 9000 has impressive features that make it quieter, smoother, and more responsive. The 22″ touchscreen is an excellent addition, bringing iFIT training into your home. The 3.6 HP motor is sufficient for most types of training. It is a high-tech treadmill with nice, a 12 mph max speed, a -3% decline, and a 12% incline.
If you are looking for a well-powered treadmill that can be used for running, jogging, walking, or hiking, the Pro 9000 is a good option. We love the large touch screen for streaming iFIT’s indoor and outdoor classes filmed all around the world. For that reason, we’ve named the ProForm Pro 9000 the best folding treadmill with a large screen.
Click here to read our detailed review of the ProForm Pro 9000.
Interested in the ProForm Pro 900?
NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
What We Like:
- Large, adjustable 22″ touchscreen to display free workouts and iFIT with a subscription
- Comfortable deck cushioning is great for running
- iFIT content is constantly updated with indoor and outdoor classes
- Walk, Hike, Run, or Jog on the 2450
- The deck is compact yet spacious enough for most runners
- Folding deck locks into place for security
Areas For Improvement:
- The incline range isn’t as high as comparable models
- The deck might be too narrow for some people’s liking
The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill is the best folding treadmill for running on this list. This treadmill has a 22″ touchscreen and a streamlined console. The EasyLift Assist supports the deck weight as you lift it and lower it. Press your foot against the “release bar” under the deck, and it will descend gently to the floor thanks to hydraulic assist.
We find the 2450 to be a great treadmill for running because of its powerful 3.6 HP motor, soft deck cushioning, 12% incline and -3% decline, and 12 mph max speed. Homes with multiple users or those who need more intense training will appreciate this motor since it handles a good amount of use and adjusts evenly and quickly.
It also supports up to 400 lbs of user weight. The 2450 is also great for most homes because the deck is compact yet spacious enough to run on. It is 20″ wide to take up less room in your home but still 60″ long to accommodate most running strides.
The 2450’s 22″ touchscreen offers an iFIT subscription. iFIT has hundreds of indoor and outdoor workouts. Indoor classes are led by personal trainers, and other class participants are included. Outdoor routes include walking, hiking, and running in various locations worldwide. The crisp screen graphics and impressive videography make iFIT engaging and entertaining.
There’s a lot to love about the Nordictrack Commercial 2450. This folding treadmill is a great option for multiple users, with a powerful motor and great iFIT training content. If you are looking for a folding treadmill with nice functionality, cushioning, and subscription content, the 2450 is the perfect choice.
Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack 2450.
Interested in the NordicTrack 2450?
Horizon 7.0 AT
What We Like:
- Suitable for walking, jogging, and running
- Foldable, functional, and affordable
- The deck inclines up to 15% for lots of training options
- Handles up to 325 lbs
- The roller adjustments are easy to use for adjusting the speed and incline
Areas For Improvement:
- This model isn’t best for heavy use
- The speakers and fan aren’t very powerful
The 7.0 AT is another affordable folding treadmill from Horizon. The FeatherLight Folding mechanism makes this treadmill easy to fold and unfold with the hydraulic system. When not in use, the deck folds up and locks into place, so you don’t have to worry about the deck coming down unexpectedly.
The 20″ x 60″ deck makes this treadmill perfect for most runners. The 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning provides excellent shock absorption for the joints, making it comfortable.
The 15% incline and 12 mph max speed add variety to your training. We love the treadmill’s QuickDial controls. Roll these dials to change the speed and incline while training. The 3.0 HP motor handles walking, jogging, and running. Horizon also backs up the motor and frame with a lifetime warranty. This makes the Horizon 7.0 AT a well-built, affordably-priced folding treadmill.
Users who don’t want a treadmill that requires an extra monthly fee should consider the Horizon 7.0 AT. The console has Bluetooth connectivity for third-party apps and onboard workouts. The device tray is also handy for streaming content from a phone or tablet while using this treadmill.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon 7.0 AT.
Interested in the Horizon 7.0 AT?
WalkingPad X21 Double-Fold Treadmill
What We Like
- The deck folds up twice to take up a minimal amount of space
- The treadmill is small, making it suitable for most spaces
- It can be folded to set against a wall or tucked away in a closet
- The console has a dial for adjusting the speed
Areas For Improvement:
- The deck does not incline
- It isn’t appropriate for running and heavier use
The WalkingPad X21 is unique in its folding capabilities. The deck folds in half and then folds again at the top of the deck to fold up vertically for storage. Although the WalkingPad X21 is a small treadmill ideal for users with limited space, its folded footprint is tiny. When folded, the length goes from 56″ long to 9″. The X21 can be placed in a corner, against a wall, or in a closet.
The X21 is compact and foldable and has a 7.45 mph max speed. This treadmill is best for walking and lighter use. The deck is 18.1″ wide by 47.6″ long, making this size suitable for walking at lower and higher paces. Users up to 240 lbs can use the X21, too.
The uprights and handle are one singular piece that remains vertical whether you’re using or storing the WalkingPad X21. The console is streamlined and built into the handle, so both are one piece. The OLED screen displays your time, speed, distance, calories, and steps and connects with your device via NFC connection.
Click here to read our detailed review of the WalkingPad X21.
Interested in the WalkingPad X21?
Sole F63
What We Like
- This high-quality treadmill is affordable and space-saving.
- The 3.0 HP motor is excellent for moderate running and quiet when used.
- The deck folds up and is accommodating to all strides yet compact.
- The solid construction is backed with a lifetime warranty and handles up to 325 lbs of user weight.
- There are four transportation wheels to push this treadmill when folded.
- The console includes onboard workouts and Bluetooth-enabled speakers.
Areas For Improvement:
- The console has less tech than others.
- It isn’t best for long-distance training.
Another good budget-friendly treadmill is the Sole F63. This treadmill is under $1500 and features a lift assist deck with a kick-release mechanism.
Much like many of the other best folding treadmills on this list, the F63 folds and unfolds the same way. The assistance in the deck kicks in when you lift the back end, so you don’t have to lift the entire weight, and to unlock, you need to press your foot against the bar at the bottom of the deck near the floor. Once unlocked, the deck slowly lowers to the floor on its own.
The F63 is fantastic for most people, and it saves extra space in your home because of the 20″ wide and 60″ long deck. Users of all strides and abilities will also have enough length in the deck. The deck features firm cushioning that’s comparable to running outside.
The 3.0 HP motor is quiet and can handle moderate walking, jogging, and running. When using the Sole F63, you have a 12 mph max speed range and 15 levels of incline to work with. This treadmill is also great for people up to 325 lbs.
The Sole F63 Treadmill features a simple console with onboard workout programs and Bluetooth speakers to play your content. To pair your device, you can also place it on the rack to stream your content. So, if you want to save on a folding treadmill, the F63 will give you many options.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole F63.
Interested in the Sole F63?
What to Consider when Buying a Folding Treadmill
When purchasing a treadmill, you’ll want to consider several features.
Training Needs
While many of us have limited space options in our homes, you want to look for a treadmill that has both the frame and motor size to support your weight, height, and training needs. If you are a 6’2″ marathoner, not all compact folding treadmills will work. While there are some great ones on the market, make sure to research each machine so you get the best option for you.
We often see buyers get something because it is on sale, inexpensive, or the right size – but then it turns into a very expensive coat rack because no one ever uses it. Make sure to get both what you want and what you need – you’ll be more likely to get the right training and continue to use your treadmill in the future.
Space Limitations
Once you’ve determined your baseline needs in a treadmill, measure your room to determine the dimensions. A few recommendations: check ceiling height and compare this with the height of your tallest user on the highest incline; then add a few inches for “bounce.” Watch for ceiling fans!
Folding treadmills come in full-size (Nordictrack 2450) and compact units, so you have a wide range of options. We recommend placing your treadmill away from high-traffic areas and out of the way of children and pets. We do not recommend purchasing a treadmill if you are close to or just over the listed weight capacity – even if you plan to lose weight!
Treadmill Console Design
Some people are fine with a simple console, and others want all the bells and whistles with an attached touchscreen and video content. Thankfully, folding treadmills are no longer just your Grandma’s watered-down version. You can find some impressive features on a folding model!
If you want to watch external apps such as NetFlix or other streaming devices, look for a treadmill with a touchscreen that supports this — or opt to get something simple and set it in front of a TV. Console design affects how the treadmill functions, so if the console seems clunky or outdated, it could limit how often you want to use it.
Subscription Options
Many treadmills feature subscription content. Sometimes, this is offered free for the first month, and other times, you have to subscribe right away. Subscription content makes it more likely that you will use your machine. Classes and videos help people stay engaged and motivated. But they are also an added expense.
Most subscriptions run from $19 up to $40/month, so evaluate how much value it offers to you and if it’s worth it. Be aware that treadmill touchscreens are designed to display only the proprietary content of each manufacturer, so you can’t watch TV or use the internet on most treadmill screens.
Treadmill Folding Capability
Evaluate how difficult it is to fold your anticipated treadmill. While many treadmills have a hydraulic assist so you don’t have to lower the deck to the floor, they can still be heavy to lift and lock. Smaller users, seniors, or those with back problems may not be able to lift a treadmill deck if it is too large or heavy.
Typically, the weight of the machine is a good indicator of how heavy the deck will feel. A few treadmills, like the LifeSpan TR2000e, have an electronic folding feature. We recommend this for those who may not be able to fold the deck safely otherwise.
Moving Capacity
Do you plan to just fold up your machine when you are finished, or will you move it regularly as well? Even though a treadmill folds doesn’t mean it is lightweight or easy to move. Hard surfaces such as a garage floor, basement or tile are easier for rolling a treadmill, while carpet can be quite difficult and even buckle depending on the weight of the machine.
We do not recommend moving your treadmill up/down stairs regularly as this is challenging and can hurt people or damage the machine.
Warranty/Durability
A treadmill’s warranty is a good reflection of the manufacturer’s confidence in that particular product. We recommend looking for a warranty that has at least five years’ coverage on the frame, with two years’ coverage on parts and one year’s coverage for labor. This coverage is pretty standard.
We are wary of companies that only offer a 12-month limited warranty. Also, look for “restocking fees” that may be as much as $250 to return your treadmill – even within the initial 30 days. Read the warranty and return policy carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Average Size of a Folding Treadmill?
That depends on the treadmill you choose! The treadmills on our list range from 156 pounds on a compact frame to 360 pounds and a full-size frame for the Nordictrack 2450. Since many manufacturers have adapted their treadmills to fold, you can find a compact version or full-frame folding tread, depending on your needs and the space available in your home.
Do Folding Treadmills Have Incline?
Yes! Most do. All the folding treadmills on our list incline. There are smaller models available that don’t feature incline, but our list includes treadmills with necessary features and specs for everything from gentle walking to marathon training. The treadmills on our list range from a 12% up to 15% incline.
Can I Train for a Marathon on a Folding Treadmill?
Absolutely! The only treadmill on our list we would hesitate to recommend for treadmill marathon training would be the Echelon Stride simply because the thinner, smaller deck may not be comfortable for long-distance training. However, every other treadmill would support extended training with hill work, speed options, and plenty of motor power.
Where Should I Put My Folding Treadmill?
All treadmills should be stored in an area that is clear of doors, stairs, curtains, ceiling fans, and retractable shade/blind cords. Treadmills can shift slightly when in use and may impact walls in close proximity, so we recommend leaving a small gap between your treadmill and your wall.
While folding treadmills are convenient, they need to be safely folded and locked to protect children or pets in the home. Never place a treadmill in a high-traffic area where people have to step under or around it frequently. A locked room away is always best – although many people don’t have this luxury. Remove the safety key after use and place it away from the treadmill.
Can I Use A Folding Treadmill Upstairs?
Yes, but we don’t recommend carrying your treadmill up/downstairs with any regularity. If you plan to use a treadmill on an upstairs floor, assemble it there. Some door frames are not wide enough to allow a treadmill to be rolled in/out of a room. Evaluate the weight of the treadmill and the structure of your floors to make sure you place your treadmill in an appropriate location.