The 11 Best Treadmills for Home, Tested and Picked by Our Experts

A foundational pillar among the best cardio machines, treadmills are excellent fitness tools for improving cardiorespiratory function. (2) Finding an ideal setup for your home is more involved than picking just any unit, though. The best treadmills bring together durability, training-focused features, and added conveniences to make every step as progressive and durable as the last.

When searching for the perfect tread for your space and setup, you’ll need to account for a variety of factors. Do you need a machine that can support high-intensity sprints and elevated hill climbs? How about a unit that’s slower-paced for daily walks and light jogs? Do you need an app-compatible display, or is your style more utilitarian? To help get your search off on the right foot, we’ve combed through our experience testing over 40 of the top profiles from the category’s leading brands, narrowing down our list to our favorite treadmills for home use.

The 11 Best Treadmills for Your Home Gym (2024)

• Best Treadmill Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
• Best Folding Treadmill: Sole F63
• Best Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro
• Best Treadmill for Walking: Horizon 7.0 AT
• Best Cushioned Treadmill: Sole F80
• Most Durable Treadmill: Bowflex Treadmill 10
• Best Incline Treadmill: NordicTrack X22i
• Best Treadmill for Small Spaces: Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
• Best Treadmill for Running: ProForm Pro 9000
• Best Treadmill Under $1,000: Horizon T101
• Best Budget Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400

Best Treadmills Video Review

In the below video, BarBend expert tester Jake Herod, NASM-CNC, walks you through some of the best treadmills on the market in 2024 from brands like NordicTrack, Sole, Horizon, and Assault Fitness.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBsbqG9eUF0

How We Tested the Best Treadmills

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. We’ve had the pleasure of walking, jogging, and running on 41 top-performing treadmills, so for this round-up, we drew upon that experience and utilized a multi-point methodology to rate each chosen profile rate on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

We, naturally, considered how large and space-filling each home treadmill was, as well as if the machine showcased features like a folding deck or wheeled base. Additionally, the build quality and durability of each treadmill for home were analyzed to give you a better idea of which profiles were worth their weight (or price tag). 

We also understand that every athlete is working with a different budget, so we sought to include a number of different treadmills at various costs for a well-rounded glimpse at the current market.

In addition to the above factors, we considered how versatile and convenient each treadmill was during training. Did the speed and incline settings create enough adjustments for varied workouts day in and day out? Were the display consoles accommodating with clear readouts and streaming capabilities? Did the consoles house any other perks like water bottle holders, pulse sensors, or other add-ons? All were examined and noted in our process.

Ready to hit the ground (err, deck) running? Let’s set the pace and get right into our findings.

[Related: The Top Tips for Running on a Treadmill, According to Running Coaches]

Best Treadmill Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

The Commercial 1750 is one of our favorite treadmills for a bevy of reasons. The design and build quality are top-notch, the impressive 3.5 continuous horsepower motor can support high-intensity intervals, and, as with many of the best NordicTrack treadmills, this unit is compatible with iFIT, which grants you access to over 17,000 live and on-demand fitness courses that can help bring the studio experience into your home.

According to Amanda Capritto, a certified personal trainer, “My experience on this treadmill has been that it is sturdy, comfortable, and powerful. It has a 3.5 CHP motor that powers speeds up to 12 miles per hour, allowing the most serious runners to sprint to their heart’s desire.”

We rated the Commercial 1750 a 5 out of 5 for its available programming and tech features, too. There are few streamable services that match the variety of iFIT — which costs an additional $39 per month — and the 14-inch swiveling display can even be helpful when taking part in one of the platform’s off-treadmill workouts, like yoga or bodyweight training.

On the machine itself, Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, favors this NordicTrack treadmill for its sturdiness at varying speeds, rating it 5 out of 5 for durability. “There’s absolutely no wobbliness or shakes when cranking this treadmill up to max speeds,” she said. “The entire machine is plenty sturdy.”

The Commercial 1750 also has a hydraulic lift system, which can be great for making the most of your space in between workouts. That said, though, we do give this unit a 3.5 out of 5 for its footprint. When in use, you’ll need to have 21.11 square feet of space available. This may be too much of a requirement for some, especially those in a smaller apartment. For reference, a typical two-seat loveseat sofa measures 16.63 square feet. (5) So, this treadmill would essentially be like an extra piece of furniture in your space — a tall order for tinier abodes.

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill Review.

Best Folding Treadmill: Sole F63

If your home workouts share a floor plan with other house functions like an office, bedroom, or living room, you’ll likely want a treadmill that doesn’t serve as an added obstacle outside of training. The Sole F63 can be an excellent foldable treadmill for your home thanks to its ability to shrink to a 12.15-square-foot footprint when not in use. Additionally, we appreciate the hydraulic lift system that slowly lowers the deck during training, which helps keep your feet and fingers safe from drops.

Additionally, we scored this F63 treadmill a 4 out of 5 for its footprint because the working dimensions aren’t massive, either. Even when running on this machine, you’re only sacrificing 18.72 square feet of space, far less than the typical 23.75-square-foot footprint of a three-seat sofa. (5)

Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, rated her workout experience on the F63 a 4.5 out of 5. “I thought this treadmill performed exactly as it should,” she said. “I liked the quick-change controls for both the speed and incline, and I felt relatively comfortable across the 2-ply running belt.”

That said, however, Meier did note some shakiness during her sessions, hence the half-point docking in her rating. “It wasn’t any kind of shaking that made me feel like the treadmill wasn’t safe, but it was noticeable,” she adds.

The 6.5-inch display on the F63 shows key information about your workout, including speed, incline, distance traveled, calories burned, pace, and pulse rate, which it can track via hand-grip heart rate monitors. As worthwhile as these metrics are, though, some may want a tech-heavy console offering HD streaming or touchscreen capabilities. Thankfully, though, the F63 features a convenient media shelf that allows you to follow along to programs or classes streamed through a tablet or smartphone.

Finally, Sole offers one of the best warranty packages on the market, highlighted by lifetime coverage for the frame and motor. These two components are likely to see the most wear and tear throughout your fitness journey, so having this backing can be great for keeping things in operation throughout the machine’s lifespan.

Read our full Sole F63 Treadmill Review.

Best Manual Treadmill: AssaultRunner Pro

Looking to take control of your cardio session? Consider a manual treadmill that relies solely on your effort and training intensity to get the belt moving. For athletes wanting a manual treadmill to bolster their fitness goals, the AssaultRunner Pro is our go-to recommendation.

We love the simplicity of this curved treadmill, as there’s no electricity required to get in a worthwhile workout. This means you can place the AssaultRunner Pro — also known as the Assault AirRunner — anywhere you’d like without the need of a nearby outlet. Plus, we enjoy how portable this unit is thanks to the included front wheels. We rated the portability a 4.4 out of 5 for these reasons.

Additionally, the curved track can be great for supporting a more natural running stride and gait performance, according to studies. (3) “As an on-and-off CrossFitter, I’ve spent my fair share of time on the AssaultRunner Pro, and I have a blast every time I use one,” says Amanda Capritto, a certified personal trainer, when assessing the product for BarBend. “I love how the AssaultRunner encourages me to maintain good running form and feels more like running outdoors, but brings all the benefits of running indoors.”

This tread features a corrosion-resistant alloy steel frame, and the belt is made from a thick rubber that provides solid traction, designed to last for 150,000 miles. Additionally, the center console offers interval programs, heart rate programs, and Bluetooth capabilities to track your heart rate variability. 

You get all of the essentials — like a durable frame, data-tracking center console, and accommodating running deck — without any added bells and whistles, according to our testers.

Unfortunately, though, that means there are no convenient storage holsters across this center module, either. 

Some people may be surprised to find out that this treadmill is nearly $3,000 since it doesn’t have many high-tech features, but that price tag is driven by the durability of the rubber tread and the solid steel framework, which we rated at 4 out of 5. 

Additionally, Assault Fitness covers this premium treadmill with five-year coverage for the frame and three-year coverage for moving parts. In all, we think the price tag is worthwhile, given the performance and durability of this rig. Plus, think of the savings you’ll experience in your next electricity bill.

Read our full Assault AirRunner Treadmill Review.

Best Treadmill for Walking: Horizon 7.0 AT

Not a fan of high-intensity training? No fear. The best walking treadmills can be great for helping you reach your daily step counts while still delivering worthwhile performance. For our money, the Horizon 7.0 AT is one of our favorites in the category thanks to a three-zone Variable Response Cushioning system that provides more comfort in the front for landings and a rigid backend for efficient toe-offs. Additionally, this tread can reach inclines up to 15 percent — ideal for mixing up your indoor walking routes and giving your workouts some refreshing challenges.

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, rated their workout experience a 4 out of 5. “For someone looking for a quality treadmill for lots of walking and some jogging, I think this is a great option,” they said. “That said, I do think this machine is slightly underpowered for more involved treadmill running workouts. There are no decline options, either, which limits your setup partially.”

Additionally, this 7.0 AT treadmill is a good value, in our opinion. While the listed price is $2,100, it tends to be discounted below $1,000, resulting in a value rating of 4 out of 5. Other top treadmills typically come in above $1,200 with fewer sales opportunities, which gives you a little bit of extra room for, say, a subscription to one of the best running apps or another intra-workout accessory.

In terms of integrated technology, there aren’t a ton of smart features across the center console, according to our tester, outside of Bluetooth connectivity that pairs your device to the integrated speakers. There is a convenient tablet holder, though, so you can set up your own display. 

The 7.0 AT does have preset programs available across the 7.25-inch LCD screen — Calorie, Manual Mode, Target Heart Rate, Hill Climb, Fat Burn, My First 5K, Distance. That said, they’re pretty archaic when compared to the classes and sessions you’d find on other online workout programs, so if you need that elevated tech, it may be best to look elsewhere.

Read our full Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Review.

Best Cushioned Treadmill: Sole F80

Having a well-cushioned treadmill for your home can help make every step and stride a pleasant experience. After all, if you wanted the hard underfoot sensation of running on asphalt … you’d probably just run on asphalt (weather permitting). The F80 from Sole aims to create a plush, comfortable experience thanks to its Cushion Flex Whisper Deck, resulting in us rating its cushioning a 4.5 out of 5. 

“I liked how it wasn’t jarring to run on this treadmill, even during longer workouts,” said our tester, a certified personal trainer. “It’s not too plush or soft, yet not hard, either.” Sole also states that the tech can improve shock absorption and reduce impacts by up to 40 percent, although we’re unsure as to how those metrics could be quantified. Just take our word for it — this is a comfy cardio machine.

Additionally, we appreciate the sturdy build quality of this tread, rating the durability at 5 out of 5. We experienced no shakiness during our trials, and the maximum user weight of 350 pounds should support most athletes. That said, though, this is a larger treadmill at 21.77 square feet, so be prepared to have some available space before getting this unit dropped off on your doorstep. For reference, your standard two-seat sofa tallies 16.63 square feet, so you’d essentially be adding an entire couch to your training setup. (5) 

When assembling this treadmill, it may be best to have a clear schedule before taking on the project. Our tester said that the entire process took between 2 and 3 hours, and a helping set of hands was a must-have.

Once assembled, however, we found that in-workout adjustments proved quick and painless, rating this profile a 4 out of 5 for the category. The max speed of 12 miles per hour and max incline of 15 percent are on par with the average capabilities you’d see in other high-quality treadmills, which can be great for changing up training intensities while also improving your VO2 max, according to studies. (6) However, we did dock a point as there aren’t any decline settings.

Read our full Sole F80 Treadmill Review.

Most Durable Treadmill: Bowflex Treadmill 10

The best home treadmills can last a lifetime, so it’s vital to look at the overall construction of your machine before hitting “Complete Purchase.” Thanks to its sturdy frame — capable of supporting athletes up to 400 pounds, which is 50 to 100 pounds more than most treadmills — we feel the Bowflex Treadmill 10 is tough enough to withstand your stride year in and year out.

We also rated this treadmill’s warranty package a 4 out of 5, thanks to the robust coverage that includes 15-year support for the frame, 5 years for mechanical parts, 2 years for parts and labor, and 1-year coverage for any electronics and the 10-inch HD touchscreen.

Additionally, our tester, a CrossFit Level 1 instructor, enjoyed the workout experience of this massive machine, rating it at 4 out of 5. “I never worried about any shakiness underfoot and always felt supported,” they noted. “I guess that’s to be expected with a machine close to 350 pounds and a 400-pound-max weight capacity, but I digress.”

The Bowflex Treadmill 10 also earns its spot within this list thanks to the included adjustment ranges. The max speed is 12 miles per hour, which can be great for supporting both high-intensity runs and lower-intensity jogs or walks. Additionally, the incline range supports both incline and decline capabilities from -5 to 15 percent. While it’s common to find treadmills with incline settings, moving the deck in the opposite direction is still a rarity within the category.

Of course, we’d be remiss to not point out the footprint of this treadmill. We rated this machine a 2.5 out of 5 for the category because a 23.38-square-foot footprint is one of the largest we’ve seen in our experience with treadmills. That’s nearly the equivalent of a three-cushion sofa, for reference. (5) 

Plus, given the weight of the components, our tester said that assembly is definitely a two-person job. If you desire a sturdy profile to last you years, though, we think most would be willing to put the work in before their first running session.

Read our full Bowflex Treadmill 10 Review.

Best Incline Treadmill: NordicTrack X22i

The NordicTrack X22i is a standout piece of home gym equipment for its incline abilities, which are some of the most impressive we’ve experienced in testing, resulting in an adjustments rating of 5 out of 5. This premium machine can reach pitches up to 40 percent, as well as declines down to -6 percent. This allows for a wide array of potential setups for intense, challenging workouts.

Like other NordicTrack treadmills, the X22i is integrated with the iFIT platform. The 22-inch HD touchscreen provides crisp, clear visuals across the over 17,000 available fitness classes and challenges. The speakers’ sound quality is also impressive, too, providing clear audio throughout your daily strides. Of course, though, you’ll need to be prepared for the monthly $39 subscription cost for iFIT. We think it’s worth it. 

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, also liked the included sled push module that allowed them to work on their leg drive at different approach angles. They also highlighted the higher handle placement that mimicked the setup you’d experience while working with a true workout sled.

If you have the budget for it and are dedicated to incline training, we think the X22i is one of the best options out there — and many reviewers agree. “With varied trainers at varied progressive intensities, this is a great controlled environment exercise device,” one five-star reviewer writes (among many others). “Add the incline/decline platform, and it’s the best treadmill I’ve been on. … Not cheap but worth every penny!”

As a final note, though, this profile doesn’t come without a sacrifice, mainly in the form of available space. We rated this unit a 3 out of 5 for its footprint because there are no folding capabilities across the running deck, and the entire machine weighs a whopping 417 pounds. For reference, other treadmills typically weigh around 200 pounds. This can make for quite the challenge if you’re trying to rearrange your workout space — an extra set of hands is practically required.

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial X22i Treadmill Review.

Best Treadmill for Small Spaces: Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill

Looking for a top pick that fills the need for cardio training without taking up much space? Consider the Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill. With a miniscule 5-inch height and collapsible design, this machine fits easily under sofas and bed frames. Additionally, this treadmill boasts an 11.08-square-foot footprint — nearly half of the 20-square-foot profiles commonly seen in the category. This makes this Goplus profile a top pick for under-desk setups during your workday.

We rated this Goplus offering a 4 out of 5 for its footprint and portability thanks to its convenient front wheels, which allow for easier setup before your next treadmill workout. You will want to be careful about where you place this unit, though. According to the brand, it’s best to set up this treadmill on hard, non-carpeted floors to help prevent the motor from overheating.

Additionally, our tester, a CrossFit Level 1 instructor, rated this unit at 4 out of 5 for the simple setup process. “The optional handrails and phone holder are the only two things you actually have to attach to the treadmill. This made getting into my first workouts a breeze,” they said. “However, I’d caution athletes to not rely on the phone holder too much. It’s very small and flimsy — I’d rather not have my device falling to the floor when I pick up the pace.”

With such a small silhouette, however, there are some limitations that come with this treadmill. For one, there are no adjustments for incline, and the top speed is listed at 7.5 miles per hour. This can be suitable for walks or light jogs, but athletes who want to run atop this machine may feel underpowered. For these reasons, we rated the adjustability at 3 out of 5.

Additionally, the running deck measures 39.3 inches long. This may be too short for taller athletes looking to comfortably stretch their full running gait. For runners, we recommend treadmills with a running surface of 60 inches. 

[Related: Best Under-Desk Treadmills]

Best Treadmill for Running: ProForm Pro 9000

“Any treadmill can suffice for walking and maybe light jogging, but not every treadmill will perform for running, sprinting, and hill training,” said Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer, when assessing the ProForm Pro 9000 for BarBend. With its 3.6 CHP Mach Z motor — capable of 12-mile-per-hour max speeds — and -3 to 12-percent incline ranges, the ProForm Pro 9000 is suited for speed demons.

“In use, I found that this treadmill feels sturdy enough to sprint at top speeds with no rattling or shaking — a must for race prep,” adds Capritto.

You can find several treadmills with a 12-mile-per-hour max speed and 12-percent incline, but few also have a -3 decline capability. Since decline capabilities can work in tandem with incline to help replicate the feel of real-world terrain, we rated its adjustments a 5 out of 5. 

Plus, the Quick Dial Controls are a unique method for toggling your settings mid-workout. Rather than mashing buttons with sweaty fingers, simply flick the pinwheel-like toggles for on-the-fly adjustments. 

Additionally, ProForm treadmills are compatible with iFIT, which not only gives you access to over 17,000 live and on-demand workout classes, but also brings AutoAdjust technology to your setup. According to our tester, “I really enjoyed this feature when tackling intervals. It made the entire experience more efficient than continuously toggling through arrows.” For these reasons, we rated the Pro 9000 a 4.5 out of 5 when it comes to embedded tech.

We do have to dock this treadmill somewhat for tech, though, because of the Wi-Fi issues we experienced during trials. Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, said she had multiple issues when trying to pair this unit to her home network, resulting in lagging streams and limited interaction across the 22-inch HD touchscreen. As such, we recommend shoring up your home network before purchase.

The ProForm Pro 9000 is also somewhat heavy at 236 pounds, which influenced our portability rating of 3.5 out of 5. Plus, the front wheels are a bit small and don’t roll efficiently across plush carpet and similar surfaces. As a result, you could be left scooting this machine into place more so than rolling it conveniently into position.

Read our full ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill Review.

Best Treadmill Under $1,000: Horizon T101

It’s tough to find a high-quality treadmill for less than $1,200. Thankfully, we have the T101 from Horizon. While it may not offer a built-in option to stream fitness classes, it does have Bluetooth capabilities, a tablet holder, speeds up to 10 miles per hour, and inclines up to 10 percent — all for under $1,000. For these reasons, we rated the machine’s value a 4.5 out of 5.

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, also liked the EasyDial controls near the front pulse sensors. Rather than repeatedly hitting an arrowed key to adjust your speed and incline, these rolling dials allowed them to rapidly hit their desired settings while in the throes of a workout. “I found this to be a unique feature for speed and incline settings,” they added. “It can be especially helpful for athletes wanting to partake in interval training.”

The T101’s three-zone cushion system is pretty unique, too, which played into our 4 out of 5 scoring for workout experience. The “impact zone” towards the front of the tread provides softer cushioning, while the “push off zone” on the back of the tread is more firm, leading to a solid amount of flex and support during your runs. The middle zone at the midsection of the running belt also offers moderate cushioning, which can be ideal for your transitions in each landing and takeoff.

We do want to point out, though, that the T101 features a shorter running deck than other profiles. This machine’s running surface measures 55 inches long, whereas other treadmills often feature a 60-inch tread belt. Combined with the T101’s slower max speed of 10 miles per hour, this may leave you underwhelmed if you’re trying to use this machine for higher-intensity workouts and all-out sprints.

Regardless of this moderate-intensity recommendation, we feel that the Horizon T101 still offers great cushioning and worthwhile performance at a reasonable price range. Plus, the foldable deck can be ideal for athletes tight on space. 

Read our full Horizon T101 Treadmill Review.

Best Budget Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill 

Not every treadmill treads (get it?) into the four-figure price range. There are a handful of worthwhile machines that can fit within a strict budget. Take this SF-T4400 from Sunny Health and Fitness, for example. For less than $390, you can get a sturdy, well-cushioned profile that also offers incline adjustments — a far cry from the average treadmill price of $1,200 and beyond.

“I recommend it as a starter treadmill or for people who only plan to use their treadmill occasionally,” said Amanda Capritto, a certified personal trainer, when assessing the treadmill for BarBend. 

We rated the unit at 5 out of 5 for portability because it takes up just 10.98 square feet of space — roughly half the footprint of other top units. Plus, our tester said that the 103-pound frame was easy to move and get into place, which tracks since most treadmills weigh upwards of 200 pounds. 

The compactness can be great for athletes in tight spaces, but we do caution that the shrunken measurements leave little room for a large running deck. The belt is just 49 inches long, which could be a detriment to athletes looking for a running treadmill or those with longer gaits. Typically, we’d recommend a treadmill with 60 inches of running belt to support such needs.

Capritto agreed. “It certainly isn’t ideal for serious runners who want to to sprint and do hill climbs, but it will work just fine for those who simply want a reliable treadmill to lightly exercise on,” she said.

Additionally, we rated the adjustments for the SF-T4400 a 3 out of 5. According to our tester, the incline settings are toggled manually, which may be less ideal for athletes following interval training programs. “You adjust the incline by a small orange clip at the back-left of the treadmill, meaning you’ll need to hop off the entire unit to change the pitch mid-workout,” they said.

Finally, we wouldn’t recommend this treadmill as your lifelong partner for cardio workouts. We rated the durability at 3.5 out of 5 due to the lack of a warranty package. Of course, it’s easier to replace a sub-$400 treadmill than a $2,000 unit, but we do wish Sunny Health and Fitness offered some support for this budget-minded machine.

[Related: The Best Budget Treadmills for Streaming, Walking, and More]

How We Chose the Best Treadmills

No matter where you’re planning to put a new treadmill, it can automatically become a key component in any gym. Here are some of the key factors we looked into when choosing the best for this list. 

Price

High-quality treads don’t have to cost a fortune. We’ve included options on this list that are both budget-friendly and durable for those who aren’t interested in breaking the bank over a new piece of fitness equipment. Of course, there are also some options that are extra sturdy and/or include high-tech add-ons that are worth the additional spend. Treadmills with screens or commercial-grade machines will often cost more, but they tend to reinforce the old maxim that you “get what you pay for.” Rest assured, no matter which treadmill feels like the best option for you, all of these picks go above and beyond the call of duty.

[Related: Best Commercial Treadmills]

Special Features

Some people are looking for cutting-edge tech, while others just want a machine that lets them run without a massive HD screen staring them in the face. Both types of treadmills are included in this list to satisfy all types of users.

The “bests” of the high-tech treads are great for things like streaming, Bluetooth connectivity, and display screens. Some of our picks also feature inclines of up to 40 percent, or belts powered by the user instead of the motor. There are a ton of high-tech options out there, and we’ve rounded up treadmills with some of the coolest features for this list. But runners who want a more utilitarian machine will also find a pick on this list for them. 

[Related: The Best Treadmills with iFIT of 2024]

Build Quality

When you’re dishing out a good chunk of change for a new piece of fitness equipment, you want to ensure its build is both durable and of high quality. All of the treadmills on this list — even the budget options — feature high-quality construction with components such as steel frames, quality rubbers, and thicker plastics. Obviously, there will be differences in the frame build and deck durability based on the price range. If you’re paying more than $2,000 for a treadmill, you’re likely going to get a tread that lasts longer than one that costs less than $1,000.

However, most treads on this list have 10-year warranties, meaning the companies ensure the treads will last at least 10 years. But if you’re looking for a machine that could potentially last longer, some of the high-end options on this list should endure the test of time.

Speed and Incline Ranges

To keep your treadmill sessions varied, it helps to have multiple speed and incline settings at your disposal. This can help you challenge yourself with new paces and pitches each workout, so we searched for treadmills capable of facilitating such setups. 

We found that treadmills capable of high-intensity training should be able to support speeds around 12 miles per hour. Less-capable machines can still be worthwhile, but may leave you wanting more if you’re trying to push your pace.

As far as inclines go, between 12 and 15 percent tends to be optimal for varied training. Decline capabilities are also a nice touch, although these settings are generally found on more premium models.

Equipment Footprint

A treadmill is essentially useless if it can fit within your training space. We included a variety of treadmills, from compact options that measure less than your common loveseat to more massive profiles that can take up 23 square feet or more. (5) Compact treadmills are best suited for those in tight spaces, while larger options are often necessary for serious runners who see themselves pounding the belt on a daily basis. 

We also noted when treadmills featured a folding mechanism of sorts, which can help with storage when not in use. While not standard across all treadmill models, this can be a great feature to look for when trying to maximize your floor plan.

What to Consider Before Buying a Treadmill

Before dropping a bunch of money on a new treadmill, make sure you’re getting what you want out of your machine. Here are a few things to think about before you hit the market with aspirations of hard-nosed, effective training on the horizon.

Size

Size is definitely a factor when it comes to building an at-home gym or adding to a commercial space. You’re going to want to gauge how much room you have, if you need your treadmill to fold, and if you’d like to store it in a different location when not in the throes of a workout. According to Amanda Capritto, a certified personal trainer, “Check the overall length, width, and height of the machine in its assembled position and folded position if applicable. And triple-measure your space to make sure it will fit!”

If you’d like to regain some flooring when your treadmill is not being used, be sure to look for models featuring a folding mechanism that raises the running deck up off the ground. Additionally, wheels located at the front of the machine can also be helpful when maneuvering your machine around your space, so make sure this feature is present if you like to routinely rearrange your environment.

Build Quality

You’ll definitely want to make sure your treadmill is built to last if you plan on spending a lot of money on it. A solid steel frame, sturdy deck, reversible belt, and a powerful motor are all aspects you want to note when looking for durability. The last thing you want is to drop thousands of dollars on a machine that doesn’t last longer than a couple of years.

Another thing to consider when it comes to durability is who will be using the treadmill. Long-distance runners? Sprinters? Walkers? If you’re using the tread for endurance training, you’re going to want a machine that can withstand a lot of daily miles, i.e., a powerful motor of at least 3.0 HP. If you’re only using it for sprints in between your workout splits, you can buy something with a less powerful motor or a slightly less durable belt.

Finally, if you question your treadmill’s durability, be on the lookout for well-rounded warranty packages. These can add some confidence to your decision, as there’s coverage set in place if anything goes wrong down the road. Many treadmill brands will offer extended coverage for the frame and motor, with some even supporting these components for your entire ownership of the machine.

[Related: Best Treadmills for Heavy People]

Price

Of course, you’ll need to ensure that the treadmill you go with fits within your respective budget. You can find quality machines at an assortment of prices — from budget-friendly profiles costing $1,000 or less all the way up to luxurious models totaling $3,500 and above.

You also need to factor in any additional subscription services that may be required for optimal treadmill use. These memberships typically cost between $30 and $50 per month, so make sure you have room in your finances to support continued service throughout the year. Thankfully, many treadmills offer a 30-day trial period at initial purchase, so you can offset your potential investments for a little bit at the start.

Fitness Goals and Preferences

Depending on their speed and design, different machines are better suited for different athletes. Avid runners may prefer a machine with a wide deck and high top speed. On the other hand, those who love to walk or hike may like a machine with plenty incline options.

Also, if you plan to use your treadmill pretty frequently, you’ll want a machine that’s plenty durable and can hold up after many miles. In that case, it’s probably best to opt for one of the higher end machines on our list.

What are the Benefits of Treadmills?

Treadmills are a great tool for people of all fitness levels. As such, there are plenty of benefits that can come with adding one of these impressive machines to your training space. Below are just a few of our favorite perks associated with treadmills.

Varied Training Intensities

Treadmills can be an excellent piece of equipment because there’s no standard speed or intensity. While many picture treadmills as running-focused machines, there’s plenty of potential for lower-intensity workouts, like walking or jogging. After all, low-impact training can still have a positive effect on your cardiovascular health and quality of life. (1)

Additionally, treadmills can offer unique challenges in terms of inclines and declines that may not be feasible through traditional outside running. For example, if you live in a predominantly flat area, running on a treadmill can be the sole outlet for you to train hill climbs and descents, depending on your machine’s settings capabilities.

Convenience

One of the beauties of running on a treadmill is that you don’t need to account for the weather forecast. Your outside running sessions will need to account for the elements, those factors aren’t present when it comes to your treadmill circuits. You can remain comfortable and warm, dress however you please, and move without fear of becoming drenched (outside of any pooling sweat, of course).

How Much Do the Best Treadmills Cost?

Treadmills can vary pretty widely in price. While you can find durable, long-lasting machines for only a couple hundred dollars, there are high-tech, heavy-duty units that cost thousands of dollars. Use the chart below to compare costs across machines.

Best Treadmill Overall	NordicTrack Commercial 1750	$2,499
Best Folding Treadmill	Sole F63	$1,199.99
Best Manual Treadmill	AssaultRunner Pro	$2,999
Best Treadmill for Walking	Horizon 7.0 AT	$2,100
Best Cushioned Treadmill	Sole F80	$1,899.99
Most Durable Treadmill	Bowflex Treadmill 10	$1,999
Best Incline Treadmill	NordicTrack X22i	$3,499
Best Treadmill for Small Spaces	Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill	$299.99
Best Treadmill for Running	ProForm Pro 9000	$2,299
Best Treadmill Under $1,000	Horizon T101	$999
Best Budget Treadmill	Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400	$384.99

Other Treadmills We Tested

While we only have 11 treadmills listed in our article, we tried many, many more. In total, our team tested more than 40 machines. For one reason or another, those didn’t make the cut but that doesn’t mean they’re bad treadmills. Here are a few others we tried out:

• Echelon Stride: Our team gave this machine an overall 4.3 out of 5. We really liked this treadmill but we wish it had some more dynamic programming.
• Horizon 7.4 AT: We liked this machine but ultimately chose the 7.0 AT instead. Our team felt the footprint of this machine was pretty big and potentially inconvenient for home use.
• Nautilus T618: Considering the relatively high price point, we wish this machine had some more tech capabilities.
• ProForm Carbon T14: This machine only goes up to 10 miles per hour, which is a few mph lower than other machines.

Treadmill Care and Maintenance

Treadmills are relatively easy to maintain but there are still a few things to know if you want your treadmill running smoothly for years. Different treadmills have different care and maintenance needs, though, so be sure to read the manual for your machine.

Cleaning

This is the simplest type of maintenance but among the most important. After a few workouts, it’s inevitable that your treadmill will get dirty, especially if you’re a sweater. So, giving the entire machine a once-over with a cleaning agent once or twice a week.

Lubrication

You need to keep your treadmill belt and deck lubricated. Otherwise, the two materials rub together, potentially causing damage to the motor. You can buy treadmill lubricant online and you should follow your machines instructions for application.

Inspection

You should inspect your machine regularly to keep an eye out for damaged or broken parts. Anything that you notice should be replaced right away by either a treadmill technician or the fitness company that sells your machine.

Belt Tension

As you put in miles, you can expect your treadmill belt to loosen up with time. In order to prevent damage to your machine, you need to adjust the tension to keep the belt properly in place. Again, follow your machine’s instructions to make this adjustment properly.

Final Word

Buying a treadmill is a big decision, no matter the price tag. Even if you’re going with a more cost-effective option, you’ll have it with you for many years to come, so you want to make sure you’re checking off the right boxes. 

Finding a durable machine with the features you need to fit your experience level and workout preferences is key. Before going into a store or scouring the web, make a checklist of must-haves. Once you know what features are a priority, use this list to help make your search a lot less stressful. Whether you want to find the best deal possible, are looking for the treadmill that offers the most technology, or just need something that’s going to allow you to make the most of your space — we have you covered. 

FAQs

References

1. Rippe, J. M., Ward, A., Porcari, J. P., & Freedson, P. S. (1988). Walking for health and fitness. JAMA, 259(18), 2720–2724.
2. Chan, L., Chin, L. M. K., Kennedy, M., Woolstenhulme, J. G., Nathan, S. D., Weinstein, A. A., Connors, G., Weir, N. A., Drinkard, B., Lamberti, J., & Keyser, R. E. (2013). Benefits of intensive treadmill exercise training on cardiorespiratory function and quality of life in patients with pulmonary hypertension. Chest, 143(2), 333–343. 
3. Hatchett, A., Armstrong, K., Parr, B., Crews, M., & Tant, C. (2018). The effect of a curved non-motorized treadmill on running gait length, imbalance and Stride Angle. Sports, 6(3), 58. 
4. Carreiro, A. (2023, October 31). Treadmill Buying Guide: The Full Rundown on what to look for | time stamped. Time. https://time.com/shopping/article/treadmill-buying-guide/ 
5. Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/ 
6. Ferley, D. D., Osborn, R. W., & Vukovich, M. D. (2014). The effects of incline and level-grade high-intensity interval treadmill training on running economy and muscle power in well-trained distance runners. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 28(5), 1298–1309. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24172721/