The Best Treadmills for Your Money
There are plenty of benefits to getting exercise on a treadmill. It's easy on the joints, good for the heart and a great way to lose weight. You won't get fresh air and sunshine walking or running on a treadmill, but it does allow you to binge-watch shows while working out, and there's never any need to worry about the weather.
Some of the fancier treadmills even come with digital courses that simulate real running conditions, complete with inclines, and instruct you to alternate between keeping a steady pace and brisk bursts of speed to get maximum results.
Another selling point is that if you're the type of person who doesn't really like to exercise and for whom athleticism isn't second nature, but you're aware that you should exercise, then treadmills are great because you can start with slower tempos and work your way up. It's much less complicated than, say, yoga or CrossFit. Just remember to find a well-ventilated spot in your house, stretch before and after, wear sneakers with a lot of support and, as always, drink plenty of water. Check out the video below of Sports Rehab Therapist, James Dunne, taking you through a five-minute warm-up you should do before every run.
So, if you're considering investing in a treadmill, we asked people in the fitness field to recommend the finest treadmills of 2023 for your money. Their top choices are listed below — alongside some other models our editorial team loves.
Reviewing the Top Treadmills of 2023
Best overall: Ksports Treadmill
List Price: $369.99
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Introducing the Ksports Treadmill—your compact powerhouse for at-home workouts. This portable treadmill is a game-changer for small spaces, featuring a 16-inch ultra-wide running platform and a robust 2.0 horsepower motor. Get ready to redefine your fitness routine without sacrificing space.
Connect your smartphone seamlessly with Bluetooth and dive into the world of fitness apps like Kinomap, Zwift, and FitShow. Manage your fitness goals, track exercise records, and make your workouts interactive and engaging.
Safety meets innovation with this knee and joint-friendly treadmill. Equipped with a safety key for quick-stopping, it ensures a secure exercise experience. The LCD progress tracker display panel keeps you in the loop, while the built-in Bluetooth speaker allows you to groove to your favorite tunes as you break a sweat.
Control your workout intensity with adjustable speeds from 0.60 to 8 Mph, offering a versatile range for users of all fitness levels. Take it up a notch with 4 levels of manual inclines and choose from 12 preset personalized workout programs tailored to your needs.
But that's not all—this treadmill comes with extra perks. Two small dumbbells and an ab mat are included, enhancing your workout variety. Compact in size (51 x 26 x 48 inches) and weighing in at 80.47 lbs, the Ksports Treadmill is the ideal companion for those looking to maximize their home fitness space. Get ready to stride towards your fitness goals with this all-in-one workout wonder.
Pros
- Compact powerhouse for small rooms
- Great for apartment living
- Works with many fitness apps
Cons
- Heavy, not too portable for some users
Best design: NordicTrack Commercial Series Treadmill
List Price: $2,299.00
If you're all in on treadmills and are willing to spend some cash, Jeff Halevy, the founder of Apex Human Performance, a New York City-based members-only referral fitness club, as well as the founder of HealthLuxe, a gym design, management, and maintenance firm, recommends the NordicTrack Commercial Series of treadmills.
“In my opinion, the best treadmill is the NordicTrack Commercial X32i," he says.
It's especially nice, he says, if you miss running outside, because it has a mammoth 32-inch screen. If screen size is less important to you, check out the NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750 with a 14-inch touchscreen. It usually costs under $2,500 at Amazon, compared to nearly $4,500 for the X32i via NordicTrack.
Both of these models have Bluetooth and wi-fi capability and a maximum speed of 12 mph (which is fast — most models top out at 10 mph or less), and the weight limit for the 1750 is actually higher (350 pounds vs. 300 pounds for the X32i). Nearly 85% of reviewers at Amazon give the NordicTrack 1750 four- or five-star ratings.
As for the Commercial X32i model, Halevy says, "the console itself is very sleek, the screen is high-tech and offers interactive and engaging walks and runs of famous places like Central Park, while matching your speed. It offers a steep incline option for users that are looking to get their heart rate up while preventing injury," he says. "It’s also versatile in the fact that it can convert to concentric exercises like sled-pushes, building muscle, and strength with minimal soreness. It is highly versatile and you are also able to finance this equipment which is a great option."
If you can't decide between the X32i and the 1750, be aware that other NordicTrack models offer a good compromise. There's the Commercial Series 2450 with a 14-inch screen that generally runs $2,500 to $3,000 and the Commercial Series 2950 with a 22-inch screen for around $2,500. Compared to the 1750, these two models have a higher weight limit (400 pounds) and a higher maximum incline (15% vs. 12%).
Most NordicTrack treadmills come with a free trial of the company's iFit subscription service, which features interactive personal trainer services and classes in running, hiking, cycling, rowing, cross-training and more. Be aware, however, that introductory offers vary — some are free for only 30 days, while others are valid for a year — and some people complain that it's difficult to cancel the subscription before the trial ends. Memberships are pricey too, typically running $180 per year for an individual or $396 per year for a family.
Pros
- Wider deck than other brands and models
- Large HD tilt-and-pivot touchscreen
- Interactive virtual fitness experience through iFit
- Impressive range of speeds and inclines
Cons
- No search feature in the iFit app
- No heart rate monitor strap included
Best for a standing desk-treadmill setup: ANCHEER 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
List Price: $299.00
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Some people like to pass the time on the track by reading or watching TV on a tablet. But if you're really into multi-tasking, then Carly James, a Fitness Authority instructor and nutritionist in the United Kingdom, has a suggestion.
"This ticks all the right boxes for a regular folding treadmill. For completeness, these are decent cushioning, a reasonably-sized deck, and a decent motor," she says. "What’s really neat about it, however, is that you can drop the handrail while the treadmill is in use, instead of just for storage. This means you can put it literally right in front of a standing desk and walk, or run, while you work. Or at least should be at work."
Pros
- Quick and easy to set up
- Convenient folding design for maximum portability
- Heavy-duty, durable hand grips
- Pre-programmed routines available
Cons
- Instruction manual may be unclear
- Relatively noisy operation
Best audio features: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515 Smart Treadmill
List Price: $499.00
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If you’re looking for a treadmill that offers user-friendly smart features for listening to music or audiobooks or watching TV, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515 Smart Treadmill is an excellent pick. It has Bluetooth wireless connectivity, so you can connect to any smartphone or tablet. This model also has an MP3 cord and built-in speakers for good sound quality.
For tackling your workout goals, this treadmill allows you to choose between three countdown functions (time, speed and calories) to help you reach specific workout goals. It also includes a body mass index calculator and pulse grip heart rate monitoring to track your progress and performance.
Pros
- Bluetooth speakers offer great-quality sound
- Cup holder for two beverages
- Sleek and modern look
- Easy to assemble and set up
Cons
- Volume increments could be more varied
- Difficult to use for tall individuals
Most affordable high-end model: Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill
List Price: $736.13
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If you are wavering on pulling the trigger on a treadmill because of the cost, or you're worried it will take up too much space, then Halevy, founder of HealthLuxe, says the sub-$1,000 Horizon T101 offers the full package at a terrific value compared to other high-end models going well over $3,000.
"The least expensive option is the Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill. This is a great option for someone looking to work out," he says. "It folds for easy storage and does not take up much space when open."
Pros
- Hydraulic folding system for easy setup
- Bluetooth compatibility for media streaming
- Reliable, durable and sturdy frame
- Wheels enable convenient mobility
Cons
- Fan only has one setting
- Distance program selection is unclear
Most comfortable: ProForm Smart Pro 2000 Treadmill
List Price: $1,929.99
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If you're looking to get some reading done during your run, then Dr. Velimir Petkov, a podiatrist based in Clifton, New Jersey and the founder of Premier Podiatry, recommends the ProForm Smart Pro 2000 Treadmill.
"This heavy-duty large treadmill is ideal for home use. It includes a large fan that can cool you off after an intense workout and it also has a tablet holder. Proform has a proven track record and the built quality is excellent. It also offers 1-year iFit in-home, trainer-led studio sessions with the purchase."
Pros
- Automatically records training sessions to track progress
- High-quality screen with optimal brightness
- Quiet operation and self-cooling motor for extended use
- Included iFit virtual studio sessions
Cons
- Assembly instructions may be unclear
- Included floor mat is somewhat thin
Most incline settings: SOLE F63 Foldable Treadmill
List Price: $999.99
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The SOLE F63 Foldable Treadmill is a solid choice for those looking for a home workout device that offers challenging settings for intensive training. Its strong 3.0 HP motor supports speeds up to 12 mph and inclines up to 15 levels, which can be adjusted with controls on the armrests. The console includes six preset programs, including cardio training and fat-burning programs, as well as speed and incline controls on the armrests.
Selecting these programs is easy thanks to this model’s easy-to-read LCD screen which displays information such as time, distance traveled, calories and pace. This foldable treadmill also offers an industry-leading lower-impact design to reduce stress on your toes, ankles, shins and knees so you can exercise for longer periods of time without fatigue or discomfort. For its price, this product is an excellent investment thanks to its versatile and convenient features.
Pros
- Easy-to-use speed controls for convenient adjustment
- Expansive tray for holding drinks and devices
- Excellent range of speeds and inclines
- Crisp display with blue backlight
Cons
- Rear feet are only slightly adjustable
- Handrails are somewhat short
Most compact: SereneLife SL26 Folding Treadmill
List Price: $299.99
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The SereneLife Folding Treadmill is a reliable and practical choice for anyone looking for a quality home fitness solution. This pick offers an incredibly compact and space-saving design, so it can easily fit in almost any part of your home. Yet it still boasts a large running belt measuring 15.7 x 39.3 inches, offering plenty of room for walking and running.
To make workouts even more enjoyable, this model has Bluetooth connectivity to blast your favorite music or connect your fitness apps with the machine. Overall, this folding treadmill is a portable and compact piece of exercise equipment that can be quickly set up whenever you feel like a walk or a run.
Pros
- Durable and well-made construction
- Ideal for exercising in small spaces
- Easy-to-use display and controls
- Compatible with Bluetooth and various fitness apps
Cons
- Assembly may be complicated
- Running surface could be wider
Most reliable: Schwinn Fitness 810 Treadmill
List Price: $899.99
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Searching for a treadmill that’s sure to last for years? The Schwinn Fitness 810 Treadmill boasts a durable construction and an impressive warranty in case anything goes wrong. It comes with 10 years of coverage for its motor and frame, one year for mechanical and electrical parts and one year for labor. This product also features a blue backlit LCD display with 16 workout programs and two user profiles, making it perfect for multiple users in a household.
But the most impressive feature of this treadmill has to be its ability to let you explore destinations around the world with its Explore the World subscription. It auto-adjusts in real time to your speed as you virtually traverse 50 global routes. With its features and fantastic warranty, this treadmill will surely be a long-lasting addition to any home gym.
Pros
- Built-in fan and speakers
- Very secure design for stable, comfortable use
- Accurate speed display
- Quiet and smooth operation
Cons
- Only compatible with three-prong outlets
- Challenging to move due to its size
Other Treadmills To Consider
Best for beginners: Weslo Cadence G 5.9i Folding Treadmill
List Price: $297.28
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Jeff Parke is the owner and operator of Top Fitness Mag, an online exercise resource. He recently reviewed treadmills for the site and concluded that the Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill "ranked #1 as it provides one of the best dollar-to-performance values on the market. While it may be for a beginner to intermediate-level run/walker, this machine is steady and reliable at an affordable price," he says.
"The heart rate monitor and six programmed workouts are useful tools that anyone can use during their workout to provide more data and track their progress."
Pros
- Wide and long running surface
- Easy-to-access buttons for adjusting settings
- Sturdy shelf for holding devices or books
- Portable and foldable for convenient setup
Cons
- Heart rate monitor may be inaccurate
- Noisy operation comparable to a hair dryer
Best for sensitive joints: Precor TRM 223 Energy Series Treadmill
List Price: $1,999.00
One advantage treadmills have over other forms of exercise is that if you have mobility issues, you can still get a workout in as long as you take it gentle. If you have sensitive joints, then maybe consider the Precor TRM.
Ed Pryts, a former football player and the chief security officer for Gym Source, a distributor of premium fitness equipment, likes the Precor TRM because it "is a quality, entry-level treadmill that caters to the needs of runners and walkers," he says. "The treadmill offers your basic speed settings, as well as technology like Energy StrideTechnology shock absorption, which reduces stress on your joints."
Pros
- Quality shock absorption for comfortable use
- Relatively quiet operation
- Sturdy and well-built model
- Programmable profiles for up to two users
Cons
- Heavy and difficult to install
- Heart rate sensor may be inaccurate
Picking the Ideal Treadmill for You: A Buyer's Guide
Choosing a treadmill can be a daunting task. There are many factors to consider, from the price to the motor size to the quality of the cushioning system. Of course, it's important to consider any safety features as well as your desired features like built-in programs or heart monitor compatibility. This buyer’s guide provides a comprehensive look at all of these factors and more to help you find the perfect treadmill for your needs.
Price
When considering a treadmill, the cost is likely one of the most important factors. Depending on your budget, you may want to invest in a slightly higher-end model if you are serious about fitness and plan on using your treadmill frequently. If you are only interested in investing in something with basic features, consider one of the more affordable options. It’s also important to check if certain models come with fitness memberships or subscription plans, as these can add an ongoing cost to your purchase.
Built-in programs
If you like having structured workouts with goals and challenges, many treadmills come with built-in programs that offer various levels of intensity from beginner to athlete. These pre-programmed workouts can make your workout routine more efficient and engaging for those looking for something new.
Maximum speed
Treadmills can have maximum speeds that vary from 2 mph all the way to 12+ mph depending on the model you choose. If you are a beginner interested in walking or jogging at a slower pace, then 2-5 mph will likely suffice. If you're a more advanced runner or want to improve your speed and endurance over time, you may want to invest in a model that's capable of up to 10 mph or faster.
Maximum incline
Depending on what type of terrain you would like to simulate during your workout, many treadmills come with adjustable inclines up to 12% or more, allowing users to mimic running up hills or stairs. If you want an all-terrain type of machine, look for one with at least 6% incline capability or higher.
Quality of cushioning system
The quality of the cushioning system is important not only for comfort but also for injury prevention. Look for ones with multiple layers of cushioning that provide extra shock absorption and reduce the impact on joints and muscles during long runs or hard workouts.
Noise level
One of the biggest complaints about treadmills is how loud they can be when in use due to their motors or belts moving along the track. That’s why it’s important to look for models with quieter motors and designs to avoid disturbing those around you when exercising indoors.
Deck length and width
When choosing a treadmill, it is essential to take into account both the length and width of the running deck before making a purchase. Some machines are designed for shorter strides and others for longer strides, so you'll want to make a decision based on your individual preference or height differences between users if multiple people will be using it.
Safety features
To ensure safety while in use, many treadmills come with various safety features such as emergency stops in case of accidents or malfunctions that help prevent injury by stopping the belt suddenly when needed. It’s always wise to check for these before making a decision so you know your machine has been built with your safety in mind first and foremost before anything else.
Bluetooth compatibility
Treadmills today are smarter than ever before with built-in Bluetooth compatibility, allowing users to stream music or videos directly from their devices while working out. Some models also come with integrated speakers and are compatible with fitness apps like Strava to take your workouts to the next level.
Display screen quality
The brighter and clearer the display screen, the easier it will be for you to read or adjust settings during your workouts without having to strain your eyes trying to decipher text from small LCD panels. This issue is common with older models and could potentially lead to frustration over time, so make sure to consider the screen size and quality before purchasing a treadmill.
Portability
A great feature found on many newer models is portability. Some treadmills actually fold up easily when not in use, allowing users to store them conveniently away without taking up too much space. This is great if you're shopping for one to use in tight quarters such as a small apartment. Make sure you pay special attention to this feature if this is something important to you!
Warranty coverage
The last thing you want is an expensive piece of fitness equipment breaking down after only one year, so make sure you read up on any warranty coverage offered by the manufacturer before making a purchase. Some companies offer generous protection plans that can last five years or more depending on how much you spend initially on your machine.
People Also Ask
Is a treadmill good for running workouts?
Yes, treadmills are great for running and providing a good cardiovascular workout, especially if you don’t have the space outdoors. Most treadmills allow you to adjust the speed, incline and length of your run, making it easy to customize a running exercise routine.
How much do treadmills cost?
Treadmills range in price from around $300 to $3,000 or more depending on the size and features of the treadmill. The more sophisticated models typically have more power, smoother operation and more features such as adjustable speeds, inclines and heart rate monitors.
Do treadmills have any safety features?
Yes, most treadmills have safety features such as emergency stop buttons and other features that help prevent accidents or injury while using the machine. Some treadmills also come with shock-absorption systems or adjustable cushioning to help reduce the impact on your joints while running or walking.
How difficult is it to assemble a treadmill?
It depends on the model of the treadmill that you buy but typically the assembly process is not too difficult and can usually be completed in an hour or two using an instruction manual or video tutorial.
How long will my treadmill last?
Most treadmills should last between 5-10 years depending on how often they are used and how well they are maintained. Regular maintenance may include lubricating the belt and checking or tightening all bolts and nuts. These should be performed periodically to ensure the maximum performance of the machine over its lifetime.
Why Trust Us
Our commitment to the consumer begins with product selection and ends with the last word we write in each article. Each treadmill is carefully vetted quantitatively through star ratings and the number of reviews qualitatively through careful examination of reviews and the features each one has to offer. Leveraging our team of bargain hunters, we’re also always sure to keep your budget in mind while we find the best treadmills on the market. Our team of experts is dedicated to accurately depicting the pros and cons of each product, translating technical product specifications into information you can understand. At the end of the day, our mission is to share the most practical exercise equipment with you so you can tackle your fitness goals effectively.
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