Treadmills are expensive. If you’re looking to buy a premium treadmill, you’ll be paying even more, but how do you know if it’s worth its exorbitant price? Hi, it’s us, your friendly neighborhood treadmill testers. We’re here to help you find your perfect treadmill.
We take exercising seriously and want you to buy a treadmill that fits your training goals, home, and budget. When searching for the best high-end treadmill, your expectations should be met, if not exceeded. There are several premium treadmills, so we’ve narrowed it down to the ones that we know to hold their weight in gold.
Get ready for the treadmill bar to be raised with our picks below.
Below, you’ll learn everything you need to know about these treadmills.
NordicTrack X32i Incline Treadmill
Best High-End Treadmill
What We Like:
- Massive 32” touchscreen
- iFIT training subscription
- 40% incline and -6% decline
- Powerful and quiet 4.25 CHP motor
- Large 22” wide by 65” long deck
- Excellent shock absorption
Areas For Improvement:
- Heavy and non-folding
- It can get bouncy at high speeds
Seriously – good luck walking up this for over a few minutes. Paired with the incline is a -6% decline, so your anterior chain will get plenty of work, too.
The NordicTrack X32i has an impressively powerful 4.25 CHP motor, which is excellent for distance training and high-intensity workouts. So, if you’re a runner or fitness enthusiast looking for a treadmill to keep up with you and challenge you, check out the X32i. It’s also a great option if you have multiple users in your household who want to use the treadmill.
Along with the training capabilities and motor power, the X32i comes with an attached 32” touch screen. It’s massive and streams iFIT, which is NordicTrack’s training content. iFIT offers thousands of guided workouts and is available with a membership.
Many iFIT workouts are filmed outdoors in areas worldwide, so you can feel like you’re hiking up a mountain or running on a beach with this screen.
The treadmill also automatically adjusts to the format of the class and the terrain of the location, so you don’t have to worry about that. You can change the X32i whenever needed, and it has nice quick-adjusting buttons.
The NordicTrack X32i Incline Treadmill is a non-folding treadmill that requires much space in your home. It weighs 462 lbs in the box, so it’s better for a ground-floor level. One of my favorite aspects is the deck cushioning, which provides a lot of give to feel soft underfoot, unlike running outside. So, if you’re looking for a treadmill with insane features and capabilities, consider the X32i.
Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack X32i.
Interested in the NordicTrack X32i?
Sole F85 Treadmill
Best High-End Treadmill Runner-Up
What We Like:
- Included workout videos and app streaming
- Quiet and well-powered motor for high-intensity training
- 15 levels of incline and six levels of decline
- Spacious, folding deck
- Easy to move for its size and weight
Areas For Improvement:
- Non-adjustable touchscreen
- Cushioning might be too firm for some
The F85 also features 15 levels of incline and six levels of decline. The quiet drive, incline, and decline motors make this a good treadmill for most homes, too.
The F85 is a beast at 319 lbs, but it folds up to save space when you’re not using it. The deck folds up with an assist, so you don’t have to lift the entire weight, and it locks into place securely. Plus, to unfold, there is a yellow handle to pull, and the deck will slowly lower to the floor.
When you need to move the Sole F85, you can push it around while folded with the four transportation wheels. It’s best to keep this treadmill near where you plan to use it, but it can be moved when needed.
The Sole F85 is a hop-on-and-go treadmill. It comes with onboard workout programs that are standard and comparable to those found on gym treadmills. Ten different programs are available, and you can take fitness tests to test your endurance.
When you want some entertainment while running the F85, it also comes with 12 preloaded streaming apps, such as YouTube, Netflix, and Hulu, ready to go on the screen. All you have to do is log into your account for each and start streaming; no additional subscription is required. The 15” touch screen makes for a nice training experience, too.
We’re continually impressed by Sole Treadmills, and the F85 represents the brand’s folding treadmill lineup well.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole F85.
Interested in the Sole F85?
AssaultRunner Elite
Best High-End Manual Treadmill
What We Like:
- Extremely well-built
- User-controlled belt
- Lifetime belt warranty
- 400-lb weight limit
- Made for commercial and home settings
Areas For Improvement:
- No incline
- Doesn’t fold
It’s the best high-end manual treadmill on our best manual treadmills list, so this is one of the best manual treadmills on the market. Here’s a little taste of what you can expect with the AssaultRunner Elite.
This non-folding treadmill doesn’t contain a motor, so you can control the belt’s pace yourself. This means that the Elite doesn’t have a max speed, so you can run on it as fast as you want. It also comes with a lifetime belt warranty, so it easily handles long distances.
The rubber slat belt absorbs shock from running’s high impact while feeling firm underfoot. Steel ball bearings under the belt provide smooth and consistent single-direction movement.
The deck is curved to help promote good running mechanics, and it is narrower at 17” wide to keep your body in alignment and a linear pattern while running.
The Elite doesn’t fold up, but it’s movable with two front wheels and a rear grab bar to tip up the back end to wheel it around. The console is simple and battery-powered, so you don’t have to plug in the Elite. It also tracks your vital workout metrics so you can keep track of each workout.
Check out the AssaultRunner Elite if you’re looking for a well-constructed manual treadmill that is one of the best on the market.
Click here to read our detailed review of the AssaultRunner Elite.
Interested in the Assault Runner Elite?
Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
Best High-End HIIT Training Treadmill
What We Like:
- Quick-adjusting motor
- HIIT training programs built-in
- Quiet and powerful motor
- Good deck cushioning
- Foldable deck
- Simple console
Areas For Improvement:
- The console is more basic than other treadmills
- Heavy and hard to move
Timing it next to other treadmills, the 7.8 AT blows them out of the water by changing the speed quickly. It also doesn’t hurt that it includes the HIIT program Sprint 8 on the console, ready to go. This way, you can follow along with programmed intervals to keep your workouts structured and engaged.
The 4.0 HP motor is also quiet and capable of handling a lot of high-intensity training. The 7.8 AT is a good option for households with multiple users, too. This treadmill’s construction is beefy and well-built. The frame and motor are backed by a lifetime warranty, which helps instill confidence in their durability.
The Horizon 7.8 AT includes nice training variables for high-intensity workout sessions. The 15% incline and 12 mph max speed make for good training options, and the treadmill’s deck folds up, allowing it to be used in more homes. Most people up to 375 lbs will be able to get a lot out of this treadmill, too.
Also, add to the fact that the 7.8 AT has nice cushioning that feels comfortable without feeling bouncy, and you have an excellent high-end treadmill for most homes.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon 7.8 AT.
Interested in the Horizon 7.8?
NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
Best High-End Treadmill For Running
What We Like:
- Great deck cushioning
- Powerful motor
- Large swiveling touchscreen
- iFIT training subscription
- Foldable deck
Areas For Improvement:
- No device rack
- Narrower deck than others
The 2450 inclines up to 12% and declines to -3% to provide a good range for mimicking hills and descents outside. The deck is 20” wide and 60” long to support all running stride lengths for the 12 mph max speed. This deck is also a little more compact than others, so the NordicTrack 2450 can fit better in more homes. It handles users up to 300 lbs, too.
What makes the 2450 stand out is the 22” touch screen and iFIT streaming options. iFIT offers various running training workouts indoors and outdoors. You can even train for events like the Boston Marathon by following the actual track course with one of iFIT’s instructors. iFIT films real-life events so you can run them at home, thus enhancing your training.
Also, with the AutoAdjust feature, the 2450 will automatically adjust the speed and grade of the deck throughout your workout to match the class format, so you don’t have to worry about that. This technology also factors in previous workouts, so it considers your previous performance so you can focus on progressing and taking your runs to the next level.
When it comes to a running treadmill, the NordicTrack 2450 is our top pick. It’s the premium model in NordicTrack’s popular Commercial Series lineup.
Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack 2450.
Are you looking for more options? Check out our Best Treadmills for Serious Runners.
Interested in the NordicTrack Commercial 2450?
Bowflex Treadmill 22
Best High-End Folding Treadmill
What We Like:
- Large, yet folds
- Handles heavy use
- 20% incline and -5% decline
- Heavy-duty construction
- 400-lb weight limit
- 22” touchscreen with JRNY subscription
Areas For Improvement:
- Heavy and hard to move
- Firm cushioning
It also has impressive training capabilities, content, and a well-constructed design for a folding treadmill. It’s rightfully earned the award as the best high-end folding treadmill.
One of our favorite aspects is the 20% incline and -5% decline range. This is the highest grade we’ve seen on folding home treadmills. The Treadmill 22 has a large 4.0 HP motor capable of handling heavy training. The deck is also sizeable at 22” wide and 60” long, so it supports all stride lengths for running.
So, most people will be able to have plenty of room on the deck and the option to go up to 12 mph. The Bowflex Treadmill 22 handles users up to 400 lbs, too, so it’s a treadmill that works for most.
The T22 has a 22” touch screen that offers subscription content. A membership to JRNY gives you access to customized workouts, streaming from Netflix and Hulu, trainer-led workout videos, and the option to explore areas around the world in the pre-filmed Explore the World section. This Bowflex Treadmill comes with many options.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Bowflex Treadmill 22.
Interested in the Bowflex Treadmill 22?
Matrix T75 Treadmill
Best Content On A High-End Treadmill
What We Like
- 22” touchscreen with tons of training options
- Powerful commercial 3.0 HP AC motor
- Lifetime warranty
- Heavy-duty construction
- 400-lb weight limit
Areas For Improvement:
- Doesn’t fold
- It’s heavy and hard to move
The Matrix T75 is a premium home treadmill that has the build and performance of a treadmill you’d find at your local gym, but it comes with a 22” touch screen with practically unlimited content options. So, if you’re looking for the best content on a high-end treadmill, check out the T75.
So, what’s so special about the screen and tech features? Well, it comes with preloaded apps like Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube. There are also Instagram and Facebook, so you can scroll through your newsfeed while walking. And if this isn’t enough, you can also surf the internet with the web browser to read and watch whatever you want.
Along with these apps, you have access to Sprint 8 and Virtual Active workout programs, as well as iFIT with a subscription. Plus, with the HDMI input, you can connect an Amazon Fire Stick, Roku, or even your Xbox to the treadmill. This is all available with the high-end XUR console.
Along with the basically limited content to ensure you’ll never get bored on a treadmill again, the T75 has a 3.0 HP AC motor. AC motors are found primarily in commercial treadmills, so if you want to train heavily and use the T75 throughout the day, you can. It also doesn’t hurt that the non-folding frame is backed by a lifetime warranty. The motor and cushioning come with a lifetime warranty, too.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Matrix T75.
Interested in the Matrix T75?
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
Best Compact High-End Treadmill
What We Like:
- High-end yet compact
- 22” touchscreen
- iFIT streaming
- 3.6 CHP motor
- Incline and decline
- Folds up
Areas For Improvement:
- Slight console shake when running
- Narrower deck than others
It’s also more lightweight at 263 lbs when delivered in the box. So, if you’re looking for the best compact high-end treadmill, this one is it.
The ProForm Pro 9000 also comes with nice features and build quality in addition to its compact design. The 3.6 CHP motor is powerful, and the 20” wide and 60” long deck accommodates all user stride lengths. The deck also inclines and declines from 12% to -3% for good training variables. Underfoot, this treadmill is comfy to run on, especially compared to the concrete outside.
The Pro 9000 has a lovely 22” touch screen for streaming iFIT content. iFIT is one of the best training platforms out there, so you’re in good hands with this content. You can take all kinds of classes on the treadmill, including walking, jogging, running, and hiking. The instructors are engaging, and the Pro 9000 automatically adjusts as you go.
Check out the ProForm Pro 9000 if you’re looking for a compact high-end treadmill for home use.
Click here to read our detailed review of the ProForm Pro 9000.
Interested in the ProForm Pro 9000?
Sole TT8 Treadmill
Best High-End Treadmill For Race Training
What We Like:
- Large motor with a 10-lb flywheel
- Handles up to 5 hours of running per day
- 400-lb weight limit
- Large deck for running
- Touchscreen with included entertainment and training content
- 15 levels of incline and six levels of decline
Areas For Improvement:
- Heavy
- Non-adjustable touchscreen
The TT8 is designed for 5 hours per day, so it’s a great option if you’re looking to train for a marathon. That’s why we’ve given it the award as the best high-end treadmill for race training.
The Sole TT8 provides good training variables, too. It offers a 12 mph max speed, 15 levels of incline, and six levels of decline. The decline is especially beneficial for downhill portions of races to keep your muscles engaged and ready. The TT8 is best for most people because of the 400 lb weight limit and large 22” by 60” running surface. It also doesn’t hurt that the frame and motor are backed by a lifetime warranty.
The 15.6” touch screen offers onboard workout programs to keep your running structured, although manual mode is simple for when you just want to hop on and go. There are also 12 preloaded streaming apps, just the Sole F85, for you to log into and stream while you run. Race training on a treadmill doesn’t have to be boring, after all!
We recommend considering the Sole TT8 if you want to use a treadmill for prepping for your next race.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole TT8.
Interested in the Sole TT8?
Life Fitness Run CX
Best High-End Non-Folding Treadmill
What We Like:
- Performs like commercial-grade treadmills
- 3.0 HP motor with adaptable HP
- 400-lb weight limit
- Straightforward console
Areas For Improvement:
- The console isn’t as easy to use as others
- No built-in fan
What’s nice about the non-folding frame is that it’s slim and has a low step-up height. This treadmill is easy to step on and off, and it is better for lower-ceiling homes. The cushioning is firm underfoot to resemble running outdoors; however, the foot noise is quiet, which makes it a good option for most homes.
What makes the Run CX great for long-distance use is the adaptable motor. It is a 3.0 HP with a 6.0 HP peak to more efficiently run at higher speeds. The deck is 60” long and 22” wide to offer plenty of room for all fitness levels, and it’s good for most people up to 400 lbs. The Run CX is a hop-on-and-go type of treadmill without much tech in the console.
It comes with onboard workout programs and custom settings so you can structure your runs or use manual mode. The device rack holds your phone or tablet for when you want to stream your content, too.
Check out the Life Fitness Run CX if you have the space for a non-folding treadmill that performs similarly to one you’d find at your local gym.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Life Fitness Run CX.
Interested in the Life Fitness Run CX?
Things To Consider When Purchasing A High-End Treadmill
Here are some guidelines that we recommend when purchasing the best high-end treadmill for you.
Your Home
First, you want to make sure that the high-end treadmill you have your eye on is going to work in your home. Most premium treadmills are heavy and might not be best to use on an upper-level floor. Some are also non-folding and hard to move, so they require a designated space.
We have included plenty of folding options that are fairly maneuverable when you need to move them, though, so consider these if you need a treadmill you can push over in a corner when you’re done using it.
Floor space and ceiling height are important. You want enough space around your treadmill to safely use it, and you want enough ceiling clearance to utilize its incline feature. Factoring in the incline range, step-up height, and height is a good way to calculate if your ceiling is high enough for the treadmill.
Your Training Goals
Of course, you want to be sure that the treadmill you buy aligns with your training goals. Treadmills come in different motor sizes, deck sizes, and training capabilities, so it’s important to take a look at those specs to make sure the treadmill will offer what you’re looking for and handle the type of training you’re planning on doing.
Fortunately, most high-end treadmills come with powerful motors (usually 3.5 HP or more) for heavier use. However, some are better for personal use, while others are commercial-grade quality, so you’ll want to consider the latter if you plan on buying a treadmill for a studio gym.
Along with motor size, the speed range and incline range are good factors to consider, too. Most high-end treadmills offer a 12 mph max speed and a 15% incline range, but some decline as well. If downhill training is important to you, you’ll want to take this into account.
Treadmill Features
If you’re looking for a high-end treadmill, you’re probably interested in its features. After all, if you’re going to buy a treadmill, especially an expensive one, you’ll want to consider the workout and content features. Many treadmills come with built-in touch screens that offer streaming content of some kind.
Some also offer subscription training content that requires an additional fee. If you’re someone who loves following along with an instructor, you’ll probably want to invest in subscription training content like iFIT. However, if you want to stream from your own device, some treadmills give you that option, too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are high-end treadmills worth it?
High-end treadmills are absolutely worth it if you have the budget and plan on using the treadmill heavily. High-end treadmills come with premium features and build quality to handle a lot of use and offer great training options.
What are the specifications of a good treadmill?
The specifications of a good treadmill are ones that align with your home and training goals. The motor size should be large enough to support the level of training you want to do, the deck size should be long enough to support your stride length, and the incline range should align with what you’re looking for.
You also want to consider if you need a folding or non-folding treadmill for your home as well as make sure you don’t exceed the weight limit. Check out our buying guide for what to look for in a good treadmill.
How do I know which treadmill is best?
The treadmill that is the best is the one that is best for you. For the best high-end treadmills, we’ve included a wide variety of options depending on your needs. We’ve awarded the NordicTrack X32i Incline Treadmill as the best high-end treadmill.
However, others fold and offer different features that might align with your goals better. You can also check out our best treadmills list for an even wider selection of quality treadmills to consider. The bottom line is that you want the treadmill to work for you, your goals, and your home.