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As a runner and running coach, I’m so excited for you to get a new treadmill. You are making a huge investment in your health and fitness, whether you are walking or running. I’ve spent years testing treadmills, running miles upon miles, and researching to put this list together for you.
One of my top goals with this list was making sure that there’s a treadmill for everyone on it. It encompasses a range of price points and features. There are walking, running, and incline training options on this list. Keep reading to find a list of the treadmills I’ve enjoyed the most over the past year, as well as find the one you want for your home.
Here are our best treadmills for 2025. Our experts have continuously tested these products for months or even years to ensure only the best make it onto this competitive list.
NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
Best Treadmill for Home Use
What We Like:
- Premium soft cushioning
- iFIT trainer-led classes
- Netflix and Spotify streaming with iFIT
- 4.25 CHP fast-adjusting motor
- 24” pivoting touchscreen
- 14 mph max speed
- 22” x 60” running deck
- Hydraulic folding
- -3% to 12% decline/incline
- Lifetime motor warranty
Areas For Improvement:
- iFIT and Wi-Fi strongly recommended
- Limited console adjustment buttons
As one of the softest-cushioned treadmills we’ve tested, the 2450 provides shock absorption like no other. This treadmill is our top recommendation if you want to feel refreshed when running high mileage. The 4.25 CHP motor is made to handle your toughest workouts, and its 14 mph max speed makes the 2450 the fastest folding treadmill on the market.
Plus, the speed adjustments are so quick that we recommend keeping your workout chart on the big touchscreen to prepare you for your next speed push. Even when we’re out of breath and ready to walk, the 2450 adjusts so quickly we never have to wait. Interval training is ideal on this treadmill.
These are just half of the reasons why we love the 2450. iFIT on the 24-inch pivoting touchscreen lets you exercise in places on your bucket list. With thousands of trainer-led workouts filmed all around the world, iFIT sets itself apart from other training subscriptions. Streaming apps like Netflix and Spotify make finding an excuse to use the 2450 even easier.
Netflix and run on this treadmill, and I promise it will be the furthest thing from a coat rack in your home. Plus, the lifetime motor warranty instills confidence in this treadmill to power your whole family’s workouts.
Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack Commercial 2450.
Interested in the NordicTrack 2450?
Sole F80 Treadmill
Best Treadmill Without Subscription
What We Like:
- Streaming apps and onboard workouts
- 10.1” touchscreen
- Folding deck and transport wheels
- 3.5 HP motor
- Wireless charging pad
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
Areas For Improvement:
- The console does not adjust
- Weak fans
Sole has updated the design of the F80 for a new, streamlined look. From the z-shaped frame to the device rack to the high-tech console features, there’s a lot to like.
The touchscreen console has preloaded streaming apps like Netflix. This machine also has the option to screen mirror your device so you can stream whatever you want. The F80 is our best treadmill without a subscription because it provides everything you need and could want in a home treadmill—without paying for a subscription!
The console has a lot of functionality without being overly complicated. It includes a charging pad for your phone, a fan to cool off, and pulse grips to check your heart rate. Alternatively, you can pair a Bluetooth heart rate monitor. The Sole F80 has one of the most tech-savvy consoles at its price point.
The Sole F80 is sturdy and supports up to 350 pounds of user weight. It is a folding treadmill with hydraulic assistance for lifting and lowering the deck. It also has a 3.5 HP motor that is powerful enough for extended training sessions or multiple users. These features withstand my toughest and longest runs while allowing the treadmill to store out of the way when I’m done.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole F80.
Interested in the Sole F80?
NordicTrack 1750 Treadmill
Best Treadmill for Home Use
What We Like:
- Pivoting 16” touchscreen
- Powerful 4.25 CHP motor
- iFIT outdoor workouts
- Netflix and other apps streaming with iFIT
- Soft deck cushioning
- 22” x 60” running deck
- iFIT SmartAdjust and ActivePulse for speed and incline
- 400-lb weight capacity
- Folding deck
Areas For Improvement:
- No device rack
- Limited touchscreen functionality without an iFIT subscription
Starting with the 4.25 CHP motor. It has a lifetime warranty and is the largest DC motor we’ve tested on home treadmills. This motor powers everything with ease for distance runners, multi-exerciser households, and HIIT training enthusiasts. The 12 mph max speed is a 5-minute-mile running pace, and the -3% decline to the 12% incline makes for plenty of ways to mix up your workouts.
The deck is 22” by 60” to handle all strides and fitness levels. The cushioning highlights NordicTrack’s ability to design treadmills that are comfortable and fun to use. If you have joint sensitivity or want to lessen the high impact of running, hop on this treadmill. You’ll probably want to run longer than you do outside; at least I do.
The upgraded 16” pivoting touchscreen means you can get a lot of use from iFIT by training on and off the 1750’s foldable deck. With an iFIT subscription, you can enjoy automatic adjustments that are customizable to your fitness level and heart rate while you train in locations all over the world.
You can also log into Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Spotify to stream from these apps straight from the 1750’s touchscreen. You need an iFIT subscription to do this, but if you’re looking for a reason to use your treadmill more, putting on your favorite Spotify playlist or Netflix show is just what you need. We said this treadmill is fun, so be prepared to have fun while you sweat–a unique concept, we know.
Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack 1750.
Interested in the NordicTrack 1750?
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
Best Treadmill Under $1000
What We Like:
- Priced under $1000
- 3.0 HP motor
- Folding deck
- Connects to Peloton and Zwift
- Onboard training programs
- Soft deck cushioning
- 20” x 60” running surface
- 325-lb weight limit
- Bluetooth heart rate, including the Apple Watch
Areas For Improvement:
- No touchscreen
- No automatic adjustments from third-party apps
We ran comfortably on the 60” long deck and could lengthen our strides. The motor is the smallest we recommend for running, so the 7.0 AT best supports light to moderate use. This treadmill handled our walking, jogging, and moderate running workouts easily. The 7.8 AT is the better choice for marathoners, but the 7.0 AT is the better choice for most of us. Seriously, what more could you want from a treadmill under $1000?
The Horizon 7.0 AT is a folding treadmill with hydraulic assistance for lifting and locking the deck. When unlocked, the deck lowers to the floor on its own. The deck has Horizon’s 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning to give plenty of shock absorption and cushion when you run.
The simple, easy-to-use console is one of our favorite aspects of the Horizon 7.0 AT. Third-party apps let you stream content on your phone or tablet. No subscription is required for the 7.0 AT because there are plenty of onboard workouts. The 7.0 AT would be a great treadmill for a new runner experimenting with different types of training.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon 7.0 AT.
Are you looking for more options? Check out our Best Treadmills Under $1000.
Interested in the Horizon 7.0?
Sole F85 Treadmill
Best Treadmill for Heavy Runners
What We Like:
- 375-lb weight limit
- 15.6” touchscreen
- 15 incline levels and 6 decline levels
- 4.0 HP motor
- Onboard workout programs and fitness tests
- Storage: cup holders, device rack, and phone charging pad
- Firm cushioning
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
Areas For Improvement:
- Less shock absorption and cushioning
- Weak fan
The long run is one of the most difficult workouts on the treadmill. It takes forever, has few to no speed changes (and you probably won’t change the incline much either), and is equally mentally and physically challenging. You need a treadmill that can make it through the arduous quest of completing a long run, and we nominate the Sole F85. It’s an endurance beast, just like you.
The Sole F85 includes a 15.6” touchscreen preloaded with 12 external apps like Netflix and YouTube. This update makes the F85 one of the best treadmills on the market because you can use the preloaded programs on the console while you watch your favorite show.
We enjoyed screen mirroring Zwift to the F85 to follow interval workouts and join group runs. We had plenty of training options to get our hearts pumping on the F85. The streamlined and simple console makes programming any type of workout easy. There are quick-touch adjustment buttons on the sides of the console and speed/incline switches on the front handle next to the pulse grips to help you stay on pace.
The Sole F85 provides nice features, numerous built-in workout programs, incline and decline levels, and excellent build quality. We recommend the F85 for walkers and runners who want a long-lasting cardio machine.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole F85.
Are you looking for more options? Check out our Best Treadmills for Heavy People.
Interested in the Sole F85?
Aviron Victory Treadmill
Best Treadmill to Beat the Boredom
What We Like:
- Gamified training content
- Entertainment streaming apps
- 22” touchscreen
- Pre-waxed belt
- Varied training content
- Low-profile deck
Areas For Improvement:
- Non-folding frame
- Slow incline
Aviron started with rowers, and we fell in love with their gamified training content. Now, they’ve given the same treatment to the treadmill, and our hearts are just as easily won over. We received the Victory treadmill toward the end of my training for the Boston Marathon, and it saved me from the gruesome burnout of those last few weeks.
With an Aviron membership, you can play games and earn points every time you step on the deck. It’s loads of fun and was more effective at keeping me entertained than just about any other treadmill. The content variety is phenomenal, as it has games, trainer-led classes, scenic routes, and more.
This treadmill is one that I use again and again. The only things that deter me from it are its non-folding frame, large and bulky motor hood, and slow incline mechanism. I don’t think any of these features are a dealbreaker for me, but it’s something to be aware of. If you can find the space for the Victory, it might just be your new best workout buddy.
As with any subscription-based treadmill, you need a membership for the full experience, so I only recommend this treadmill for walkers and runners who want to subscribe!
Click here to read our detailed review of the Aviron Victory Treadmill.
Interested in the Aviron Victory Treadmill?
NordicTrack X24 Incline Treadmill
Best Treadmill for Running
What We Like:
- -6% to 40% incline
- 24” touchscreen
- 22” x 60” running surface
- 4.25 CHP motor
- Soft cushioning
- 400-lb weight capacity
Areas For Improvement:
- Heavy and does not fold
- Limited features without iFIT
The 24” touchscreen is the perfect way to view iFIT’s training content. You’ll need a monthly or annual subscription to access the trainer-led classes, Google Maps workout creator, and more. I often watch Netflix on the X24’s screen with automatic adjustments for incline and speed through a simultaneous iFIT workout.
Another feature that makes the X24 a great treadmill is the soft running surface. It’s 22” wide by 60” long and cushioned enough for recovery days, increasing your speed or distance, and taking a break from training on the road.
Runners will love the X24’s expansive features and powerful build.
Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack X24.
Are you looking for more options? Check out our Best Treadmills for Runners.
Interested in the NordicTrack X24?
WalkingPad R2 2-in-1 Treadmill
Best Under-Desk Treadmill
What We Like:
- 2-in-1 folding design
- Easy transport and storage
- 3.7 mph walking speed; 7.5 mph running speed
- Device holder
- Adjustable console
- Remote control
Areas For Improvement:
- It may be too short for some runners.
- Console adjustment can be tricky
For running, I found the R2 to be decent as long as I was mindful of my footing. The 7.5 mph maximum speed may be a little too fast for runners with long strides to manage while training on the 17” x 47” running surface. However, I like that the console provides some guidance for running, so you don’t shift too much to one side or the other.
Walking is more comfortable on the R2, regardless of whether you train with the console upright or at a standing desk. The walking speed is limited to 3.7 mph when the console is down, which is more than fast enough for walking while working.
You can use the included remote control to adjust the WalkingPad, but there are two other options. The R2 also has an automatic mode, which adjusts the treadmill speed based on your foot positioning. If you walk closer to the front, it will speed up, while it will slow down if you move back. You can also connect the R2 to the KingSmith app to control it. (King Smith is WalkingPad’s parent company.)
I recommend the R2 for anyone who wants to train at their desk and occasionally go for a short, light run.
Click here to read our detailed review of the WalkingPad R2 2-in-1 Treadmill..
Are you looking for more options? Check out our Best Under-Desk Treadmills.
Interested in the WalkingPad R2 2-in1 Treadmill?
Horizon T101 Treadmill
Best Treadmill for Walking
What We Like:
- Very affordable
- Quiet 2.5 CHP motor
- Ideal for walks and short runs
- Moderate cushioning
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 300-lb weight capacity
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
Areas For Improvement:
- No wireless heart rate monitoring
- Low-tech
The motor is quiet and powerful enough for 0.5 – 10 mph walks and runs. The T101 has an excellent incline range of 0 to 10% which we were surprised to see on such an affordable model. Horizon’s “FeatherLight” hydraulic lift system has hydraulic shocks to assist you when lowering and raising the T101’s deck for convenient storage.
The Horizon T101’s 3-zone Variable Response cushioning is better than most other ‘cheap’ treadmills. While the cushioning doesn’t compete with more expensive models, it is more comfortable than running on pavement. We liked the soft landing zones and firm push-off zones that perfectly complemented our walking and running strides.
Lastly, this affordable, entry-level treadmill has a great warranty: a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor and a 1-year warranty on parts and labor. With other top brands not offering treadmills in this price range, the Horizon T101 is a great buy for those looking for a cheap yet very capable treadmill.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon T101.
Are you looking for more options? Check out our Best Treadmills for Walking.
Interested in the Horizon T101?
Horizon 7.8 AT Treadmill
Best Treadmill for HIIT Training
What We Like:
- Quick speed and incline adjustments
- Onboard training programs
- No subscription required
- Folding deck
- 375-lb weight capacity
- Reasonable price
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
The console doesn’t have a touchscreen or require subscription content, but there are two tablet shelves, so you can use your phone or a tablet for third-party apps or even just to watch Netflix if you want! Horizon has designed this treadmill to sync with third-party apps, so you can use Zwift, the Peloton app, or even the AFG App for more Sprint 8 training programs.
The Horizon 7.8 AT has a low step-up height, making it easy to get on and off. It’s also noticeably quieter than comparable treadmills. The folding deck helps this heavy-duty treadmill stay out of your way when it’s not in use. The deck is moderately cushioned, offering more shock absorption than running on the pavement. Horizon combines a sturdy and practical design in the 7.8 AT.
While the console isn’t as technologically advanced as others, the treadmill’s performance aced our tests! You can’t go wrong with this quiet and easy-to-use treadmill, which has a quick-response motor, a top speed of 12mph, and a top incline of 15%. We’ve been impressed with the 7.8 AT and think you will, too.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon 7.8 AT.
Interested in the Horizon 7.8 AT?
Bowflex Treadmill 22
Best Folding Treadmill with High Incline
What We Like:
- Fantastic for running, jogging, walking, and hiking
- Impressive 20% incline and -5% decline adds value to training
- 22” touch screen displays JRNY training content
- Folds up when not in use
- Supports up to 400 pounds of user weight
- 22” x 60” running deck
- 15-year warranty on the frame and motor
- Quiet and powerful motor for heavy use
Areas For Improvement:
- Firm cushioning
- Limited features without JRNY membership
As the top-of-the-line model in Bowflex’s lineup, the Treadmill 22 offers some impressive features in a functional design. One of the most impressive features of the Treadmill 22 is the 400lb weight capacity. This is an exceptionally high max weight for a folding treadmill
The Treadmill 22 has a large 22” touchscreen, a 22” wide by 60” long running surface, and a really quiet motor. The deck descends to -5% and inclines to 20%, steeper than comparative folding treadmills. This allows for impressive hill work.
It is best suited for those who want exceptional incline and decline on a folding treadmill. The touchscreen displays Bowflex’s JRNY app and basic training programs. The deck provides plenty of space on an industrial-grade frame.
The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a great option for anyone who wants to take their workouts to the next level, even while just walking! If you crank the incline up to 15% or higher, just walking at 3 mph will kick up that heart rate and calorie burn! We are impressed with the design and engineering of the Bowflex Treadmill 22. A 15-year warranty covers the motor and frame.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Bowflex Treadmill 22.
Are you looking for more options? Check out our Best Folding Treadmills.
Interested in the Bowflex Treadmill 22?
ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
Best Value Smart Treadmill
What We Like:
- Great value for its price
- 3 HP motor
- Easy-to-use console
- Compact folding deck
- Moderate cushioning
- 0 to 12% incline and 0 to 12 mph speed
Areas For Improvement:
- Must be unlocked with an iFIT account before first use
- Loud incline adjustments
The Carbon TLX has a tablet rack for viewing third-party content or connecting straight to the iFIT app. You need a free iFIT account to use the treadmill, but even more awaits if you subscribe. Your iFIT trainer will adjust your speed and incline, just like the more expensive ProForm and NordicTrack machines.
The folding deck saved a lot of space in our studio. The ProForm Carbon TLX was easier to move around the bulkier machines we reviewed. None of us dodged the responsibility of rolling the TLX as we do with non-folding machines like the NordicTrack X24. Still, the ProForm Carbon TLX supports the same training content and many of the features as that treadmill.
There are a few iFIT features that the Carbon TLX does not support. These include Google Maps and ActivePulse heart rate training. However, you get full access to iFIT’s library, which has thousands of classes. You’ll never get bored. It’s the perfect value buy for anyone who wants trainer-led content and has a tablet on hand!
Click here to read our detailed review of the ProForm Carbon TLX.
Are you looking for more options? Check out our Best iFIT Treadmills.
Interested in the ProForm Carbon TLX?
Honorable Mention Treadmills
What We Like:
- Folds twice
- Stores compactly
- Supports running
- Connects with the KS Fit app
- Budget-friendly
Areas For Improvement:
- Not heavy-duty
- Not suitable for larger users
- No incline feature
The WalkingPad X21 might be the smallest functional running treadmill. The running deck is only 18.1” x 47.6”, smaller than our suggested 20” x 60” for a treadmill running surface. It helps that the X21 is limited to 7.45 mph because we wouldn’t have the space to run faster. I recommend using a shorter stride and higher running cadence when training on the X21.
The console is minimalistic. The LED screen on the crossbar shows all of your essential metrics. There is a dial to adjust your speed. It’s easy to use even while running. If you want to track your workouts for later review, view more metrics, or control your treadmill speed with an alternate method, you need the KS Fit app.
The KS Fit app expands your training options to keep your training exciting. It has a phone rack on its slim console to rest your device. Select one of the preset training programs, or design a workout and get running! We were surprised by how many training options this treadmill supported. What’s the best feature of the KS Fit app? It’s free!
Click here to read our detailed review of the WalkingPad X21.
Are you looking for more options? Check out our Best Folding Compact Treadmills.
Interested in the WalkingPad X21 ?
What We Like:
- Thousands of iFIT classes with subscription
- SmartAdjust and ActivePulse speed and incline adjustments
- 3.0 HP motor
- Folding frame
- Reasonable price
Areas For Improvement:
- Limited features without iFIT
- The screen is not adjustable.
I like the ProForm Carbon Pro 2000 for runners who want an entertaining back-up for the days they can’t get outdoors. It’s also a good walking treadmill to share with the family. The 350-lb weight capacity is also nicer than that of other treadmills in its price range.
The 10” touchscreen display is the minimum size I like for watching iFIT’s trainer-led content or entertainment apps like Netflix and Prime Video. Unfortunately, though, the screen is not adjustable, so it may feel a little low for taller users.
Click here to read our detailed review of the ProForm Carbon Pro 2000 Treadmill.
Are you looking for more options? Check out our Best Treadmills Under $2000.
Interested in the ProForm Carbon Pro 2000?
What to Consider when Buying a Treadmill
Finding the best treadmill for your needs is a challenge. Most people assume finding a treadmill is easy, but this is far from the truth. To make this task of yours easier, our Treadmill Review Guru team has provided the main factors that one should consider while buying a treadmill below:
Do You Want to Run, Jog, Sprint, Cross-train, Or Do All 4?
We regularly see consumers purchase cheap treadmills, thinking they can sprint on them because a random Amazon review said so. Don’t fall for that trap – identify your needs and go from there. That’s why we’ve broken our treadmills into needs-based categories below.
Remember, budget treadmills are for walking, jogging, and light use – not training for your upcoming marathon.
How Much Do You Want to Spend?
Now that you know what your treadmill wants and needs are, the next step is to set your budget. But how much does a treadmill cost?
It’s easy to get carried away, but it’s also easy not to spend enough. What do we mean by that? Purchasing a more affordable treadmill that doesn’t match your intended training style will be a waste of money when you don’t (or can’t) use it. If you overspend, then you will create even more stress. That stress could be a detriment to your health.
*Note: Some of the best manufacturers offer 0% interest on treadmills for up to 36 months. This offer is an excellent opportunity to purchase the treadmill you need and spread out the cost without paying interest. Again, don’t go crazy, but utilize that opportunity to get the necessary features to keep you motivated.
Where Is the Treadmill Going to Go?
If you have a dedicated area and can leave the tread platform down 100% of the time, we recommend looking at a non-folding option, like the NordicTrack incline trainers. However, if you need to keep your treadmill in a small space or just like the idea of not having a 3’ x 6’ area dedicated to it, then a folding compact treadmill is your best bet.
Now that you have answered those initial questions, below are the key features to consider before purchasing your treadmill:
Running Surface Area
Running surface area is a feature to prioritize, especially if you are tall and have a long stride. Look for a treadmill with a large deck area (at least 55 inches long and 20 inches wide). The ideal size is 60 inches by 22 inches – many users could benefit from the extra 2” in width.
Motor Size
The more powerful the motor, the longer the treadmill will last and the better it will perform at high speeds. Choosing a treadmill with a better motor could prevent your motor from burning out prematurely. Long-distance runners and multi-user households should prioritize this feature.
Technology
A treadmill is an investment that you want to use routinely to get your money’s worth. Technology such as Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity, large touchscreens, USB ports, heart rate monitoring, enhanced running programs, and other features enhance your workout and push you to train harder.
Construction Quality, Durability, and Warranty
You want to purchase a treadmill that will last a long time. Look for a treadmill with a good weight capacity, which indicates how well-built the machine is. You also want a treadmill that won’t require out-of-pocket replacement parts too soon because it has a good warranty (1 to 2+ years for parts and honored by the manufacturer).
We recommend purchasing a treadmill online because you deal with the manufacturer directly instead of going through your local sporting goods store’s customer service if you have warranty issues.
Manufacturer’s Quality and History
One of the first things you should consider when buying a treadmill is the manufacturer’s reputation for quality. How long has the company been making treadmills, and what do people say about their products?
Still trying to figure out how to pick the right treadmill? Check out our treadmill buying guide to find out how to choose the right machine.
We have selected the top treadmills of 2025 and ranked them accordingly, keeping all these factors in mind. You can check out our detailed review of every machine, highlighting the pros, cons, and top features. Our top recommended treadmills are generally in the $1,500 to $2,000 range because this price range allows you to get a well-built machine with a powerful performance, high-tech features, and a great warranty.
Still trying to figure out how to pick the right treadmill? Check out our treadmill buying guide to find out how to choose the right machine.
Types of Treadmills
There are two different types of treadmills: manual treadmills and motorized treadmills. The key difference is in the motor. Namely, a manual treadmill doesn’t have one, and motorized treadmills do. (Pretty simple, right?)
Curved Manual Treadmills
Instead of being powered by a motor, the belt on manual treadmills is turned by your movement. This means that manual treadmills can only go as fast as you do.
There are two types of manual treadmills: flat and curved belts. Flat belts are usually only for walking and jogging, while curved belts are for running. Because there’s no motor attached, flat-belt manual treadmills also tend to be smaller and lighter. That means that they take up less space and can be moved from room to room a little more easily.
Most flat-belt fold up for convenient storage, too. These kinds of manual treadmills are more affordable than motorized versions.
Curved belt manual treadmills, however, can be pretty heavy, are non-folding, and are more expensive than the smaller, flat-belted manual treadmills. Curved belt manual treadmills are best for promoting correct running form and training at higher speeds than most motorized treadmills allow.
Curved, non-motorized treadmills also require more energy output than treadmills with motors, as proven in this study. Therefore, you’ll burn more calories when running on a manual treadmill than on a motorized treadmill.
Flat-belt manual treadmills are used more for walking, and some offer incline options. Curved-belt treadmills don’t have an incline function. Motorized treadmills usually offer more tech options than manual treadmills.
Motorized treadmills are best for walking, running (especially sprinting), and training situations. In addition, they are best for extended usage and for consumers who appreciate high-tech features. The vast majority of treadmill consumers choose motorized treadmills over manual treadmills.
To help you better understand which treadmill is best for your situation, we have subdivided treadmills into three different categories, which are as follows:
Budget Folding Treadmills
Budget folding treadmills are less expensive and can be great options for those wanting to simply walk or jog lightly at home. As the name indicates, these treadmills can be folded and set to the side of your room (or inside a walk-in closet if you have the space).
On the flip side, with budget-level treadmills (generally around $600 or less), consumers compromise on the quality and features of the product. With budget models, you won’t typically find hi-tech features such as video-enabled touch screen monitors and advanced heart-rate monitoring. They are also generally made of lighter, less durable materials.
Pros
- Inexpensive.
- Take up less space.
- Great for walking and jogging.
Cons
- Lower quality parts and materials
- Less durable
- Lower weight capacities (typically under 250 lbs)
- Smaller deck sizes, making it hard for taller people and those who drift a little while running to not step on the edges of the machine
Folding Treadmills
Folding treadmills are not just budget level – you can find some very sturdy, high-end models as well. Moving up from the budget folding models, you will find more (and better) features, more technology, and better build quality.
One of the biggest reasons you might want to consider spending more around the $1,500 level is the ability to do intense workouts. From walking and jogging to all-out sprints, you will be able to get in a great workout on these treadmills. In addition, standard technology includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connectivity, heart rate monitoring via chest straps and handles, and larger displays.
Pros
- Don’t take up a lot of space
- Great for walking, jogging, AND running
- Great build quality (depending on the model and brand, of course)
- Still fairly budget-friendly (many companies offer 0% financing as well)
Cons
- More expensive than budget-level treadmills
Non-Folding Treadmills
Non-Folding Treadmills are typically built for those who need a higher weight capacity, don’t need to have a folding option, and want a treadmill that is very stable and powerful.
Sturdy decks, frames, and a large running surfaces are some of the features you should look for in a good non-folding treadmill.
You will very often find non-folding treadmills being used at places like gyms, hotels, clubhouses, etc. There are also some consumer/home models available from brands such as Sole.
Pros
- A rough and tough choice for frequent runners
- Heavy-duty, commercial-grade motor (depending on the manufacturer and price point)
- Higher weight capacities
- Good warranty
Cons
- Expensive, especially for a gym-level model
- Not portable, can’t be moved easily
- Take up a lot of space
- Not necessarily more sturdy than a similarly priced folding option
Overall, you typically find true commercial-grade treadmills to be non-folding. Of course, commercially certified treadmills need to be durable enough to have people running on them all day, every day. Home users won’t need that type of endurance and can save several thousand dollars by purchasing a folding treadmill instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to know before buying a treadmill?
We recommend assessing the size of the treadmill, its storage options, weight, weight limit, motor size, deck size, max speed, incline/decline range (if applicable), warranty, and console features. You want to ensure the treadmill will fit in your home, feel comfortable, and align with your intended use.
For instance, if you’re looking for a foldable running treadmill, you want to be sure the deck folds up while offering plenty of room for your stride. We recommend 60” long decks, but 55” can work for runners with shorter strides. Also, the motor size for running should ideally be at least 3.0 — 4.0 HP.
Along with the console features, which could include a touchscreen or a simple LCD screen, consider the treadmill’s training and streaming content options. Most treadmills with touchscreens have streaming content, but you might have to pay a monthly subscription fee. If you plan on placing the treadmill in front of a TV, a low-tech LCD screen is perfect.
How long should a treadmill last?
Home treadmills can last upwards of 10 years, depending on how well they’re maintained, how often they’re used, and the type of use. If properly cared for, they may even last beyond 10 years.
Some treadmills might not last as long, depending on how well they’re built and maintained. Cheaper treadmills may not last up to 10 years.
How often should you lubricate your treadmill’s belt?
Around 40 hours of use or every 3 months (whichever is sooner) is an average suggested time frame. We recommend checking your treadmill’s manual to see how often you should lubricate it. Different manufacturers have different recommendations for lubricating your treadmill’s belt.
If you want to learn how to lubricate your treadmill’s belt, check out our step-by-step guide here.
How do I know which treadmill is best?
The best treadmill boils down to what is best for you. Treadmills come in all different sizes and types. When finding your treadmill, you want to be sure it fits your goals and in your home. With so many models available, it’s hard to choose. We’ve also included a wide variety on our list above to help you find a treadmill that most aligns with your needs.
What is the best treadmill for home use?
The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 is our pick for the best treadmill. Along with being iFIT-enabled, the 2450 works for most users because it folds up, has a nice-sized motor, inclines to 12%, and declines to -3%. Its top speed is 14 mph.
The NordicTrack X24 Incline Treadmill is one of our top-rated home treadmills. It provides extensive training options because it inclines to 40% and declines to -6%. Plus, it’s enabled to use the fitness app iFIT.