The best treadmills blend practicality, aesthetics and safety to offer a home workout that you’ll actually look forward to this new year. When time is limited or the weather is unfavorable, a treadmill provides an excellent means to stay committed to your fitness resolutions. Our team of fitness and equipment experts scouted various machines that cater to your specific needs, while considering your goals, budget and available space. If you’re aiming for a feature-rich machine, our current all-around favorite is the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.
But of course, the NordicTrack isn’t your only option. Thanks to some help from our in-house fitness experts, gear editor and kinesiology expert Cam Vigliotta, senior strategy editor and certified personal trainer (CPT) Katie Simpson and physical therapist Chloe Costigan, we identified seven more of the best options of home use that excel in durability, adjustability and overall quality. You’ll also find detailed specs and a buying guide to facilitate an uncomplicated and well-informed decision-making process. And while you’re at it, check out our spin bike and elliptical machine stories for other indoor cardio substitutes.
- Best Treadmill Overall: Nordictrack Commercial 1750
- Best Treadmill Under $1,000: Horizon Fitness T101
- Best Budget Treadmill: Sperax Treadmill
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill: Lifespan TR1200 DT3 Treadmill
- Best Treadmill For Walking: Sole F80 Treadmill
- Best Compact Treadmill: Echelon Stride
- Best Folding Treadmill: Bowflex Treadmill 22
- Best Treadmill For Running: Peloton Tread
Nordictrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
Dimensions: 80 x 38 x 65 inches | Max user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -3 to 15%
We recommend the 2022 NordicTrack Commercial 1750 for most people looking for a solidly built treadmill that’ll stand up to many years of use. It has a 3.5 CHP motor and a 22-by-60 inch running path that automatically adjusts your incline, decline and speed. That means it greater resembles running (or walking) on the open road; take it up to 12 mph and simulate hilly runs with an incline of up to 15% or decline down to -3%.
Besides the track and motor, the treadmill features a large 14-inch touchscreen display that swivels so you can see it anywhere in the room, which is especially useful if you opt into NordicTrack’s iFit app. Choose from HIIT, strength training and yoga classes, in addition to cardio, or create custom workouts and save for future use.
Since treadmills aren’t quite as entertaining to run on as the outside world, our experts recommend using the iFit program if you do invest in a NordicTrack. The built-in workouts come in a variety of intensities—great for running novices or marathoners—and the Google Maps integration makes for a much more engaging workout.
What our experts say: “The automatic adjustment feature is great for any runner or jogger, but it’s especially helpful for folks who aren’t used to running or jogging on a treadmill,” says CPT Katie Simpson. “It’s a bit of a safety hazard to adjust the speed or incline while you’re mid-run during a HIIT- or interval-based workout, which makes the auto-adjustment feature that much more appealing. It’s also easier to perform interval-based training because you don’t have to worry about waiting for the treadmill to catch up to a higher speed or slow down to a lower one—it takes care of the adjustment for you.”
Pros:
- Durable to withstand heavy use
- Quite motor won’t disturb your neighbors
- Large deck can fit most running strides
- Incline, decline and speed adjusts automatically during workouts
- iFit app offers a variety of built-in workouts, plus Google Maps integration
Cons:
- Expensive; costs over $2,000
- Large; not the best for small spaces
Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill
Dimensions: 70 x 34 x 55 inches | Max user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 10 mph | Incline range: 0 to 10%
While you can certainly find less expensive treadmills, we like that the Horizon Fitness T101 hits the best intersection of price and features. It offers speeds up to 10 mph and inclines up to 10%, which is ideal for most walkers and joggers. We also like that the Horizon Fitness T101 comes with 30 pre-set programs, so you don’t need to plan your workouts entirely on your own.
Outside of its programming, the Horizon T101 also comes with shock absorption, which is a fancy way of saying it softens each step (great for seniors or those concerned about their joints.)
What our experts say: “For beginners who are just getting into cardio, pre-set programs are a game changer,” says Simpson. “Oftentimes, folks struggle to stick to a regular exercise program because they don’t know where to start. Pre-set programs take the guesswork out of your programming by offering workouts at different levels, plus you can work your way up to more advanced workouts as you become more accustomed to cardio.”
Pros:
- Affordable; $600 when on sale
- Great for beginners; fitted with all the basic features
- Foldable; takes up less space than the Nordictrack Commercial 1750
- Hand grips monitor heart rate
Cons:
- Taller people may find the deck too small
- Belt likely isn’t durable enough for high-intensity workouts or long bouts of running
- No built-in screen
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Dimensions: 50 x 20.8 x 40 inches | Max user capacity: 280 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 6 mph | Incline range: 0 to 1%
If your number one priority is affordability, we recommend the Sperax Treadmill. Its barebones design and easy-to-use interface make it well-suited for beginners, walkers and joggers. (Keep in mind the maximum speed only reaches 6 mph, so it’s not the best choice for true runners.)
Safety also isn’t an afterthought, which is why the Sperax comes equipped with an emergency stop clip—an essential feature, in our experience, that stops the treadmill if you lose your footing. And while the product photos look as if there’s a screen attached to the pop-up control bar, that’s actually a spot to place your phone or tablet, so you can stream your favorite shows or follow along with a virtual workout class.
What our experts say: “Treadmills like the Sperax are great for people who work from home and are looking for a way to get more daily movement in,” says CPT Katie Simpson. “Its basic design and compact size make it a great option for storing in your office and hopping on at different intervals throughout the day.”
Pros:
- Budget-friendly; under $300 when on sale
- Compact and lightweight; only weighs 50 pounds
- Ideal for those looking for a low-impact workout and remote workers
Cons:
- Not built to support running
- Photos are a bit misleading—doesn’t feature an actual screen
Lifespan TR1200 DT3 Treadmill
Dimensions: 28.5 x 63 x 7.25 inches | Max user capacity: 350 pounds| Speed range: 0.4-4.0 mph | Incline range: No incline
We named the Lifespan TR1200 DTC the best under-desk treadmill overall because of its quiet motor, compact size and wide belt. Those worried about disturbing colleagues with loud mechanical sounds will especially appreciate the treadmill’s six impact-absorbing shocks, which help limit noise and also support your joints by cushioning each step.
To keep tabs on your progress, the LifeSpan TR1200 DT3 comes with a portable console that shows your steps, time, distance, calories burned and the speed you’re walking. It’s worth noting that this treadmill is on the heavier side at 115 pounds. But, it does have front wheels that can help you adjust the position of the treadmill or put it away.
What our experts say: “Under-desk treadmills are a great option for remote workers. If you can afford to, I recommend splurging on a standing desk if you don’t already have one, so you can limit the amount of hours spent sedentary and hit the NHS-recommended 150 hours of physical activity per week,” shares CPT Katie Simpson.
Pros:
- Wide belt allows for full strides while working
- Quiet motor and shock absorbers limit noise
- Portable console displays progress
Cons:
- Heavy, but comes with front wheels to help with adjustments
- Pricey for an under-desk treadmill
Sole F80 Treadmill
Dimensions: 80 x 33 x 58 inches | Max user capacity: 375 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0 to 15%
While you can technically use any treadmill for walking, we like how the Sole F80 keeps your feet comfortable during longer, slower workouts. Thanks to its double-woven 22-inch belt, it provides thicker cushioning for your joints. In other words, this belt helps reduce the impact felt on your knees and ankle. Plus, with a 15% maximum incline, you’ll feel the burn at lower speeds. Of course, with a top speed level of 12 mph and a 3.5 CHP motor, it’s powerful enough for running or jogging, too.
What our experts say: “People may only spend 15 to 20 minutes on a treadmill during a higher-intensity workout like HIIT, but if you’re performing more low-intensity, steady-state cardio (LISS), you may clock 30 to 40 minutes on a treadmill,” says CPT Katie Simpson. “That makes the treadmill belt all the more important. You’ll want something that cushions and supports your joints.”
Pros:
- Comfortable on joints, thanks to double cushioned deck
- High incline % allows for an effective workout at low speeds
- Powerful enough to support running and jogging, if you choose
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with a built-in touchscreen
Echelon Stride Treadmill
Dimensions: 69.3 x 31 x 49.2 inches | Max user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0 to 10%
Of all the compact treadmills on the market, we appreciate the how the Echelon Stride can fold down to its belt at the press of a button until the entire treadmill is no more than eight inches tall, so you don’t have to strain after working out to store your treadmill. Other than its folding abilities, the Echelon Stride features a top speed of 12 mph and has a maximum incline of 10% that’s versatile enough for most workouts. Although you can use the Stride without it, we think you’ll get the most effective use if you sign up for Echelon’s on-demand fitness program. (It does cost $40 per month or $29 per month if you commit to a two-year plan.) You get access to live classes as well as streaming on-demand sessions, and you can compete on the leaderboard with your own social circle.
What our experts say: “If you live in a smaller home or apartment and want to make the most out of your at-home workout, a compact treadmill is a great solution,” says CPT Katie Simpson.
Pros:
- Compact; folds to 8-inches thin
- Easy to store in small homes and apartments
Cons:
- Motor isn’t as powerful as others on our list
- No built-in monitor
Bowflex Treadmill 22
Dimensions: 85 x 39.6 x 70 inches | Max User Capacity: 440 pounds | Speed Range: 0 to 20 mph | Incline Range: -5 to 20%
The Bowflex 22 is our favorite folding treadmill because it can shrink up to nearly half its size without skimping on power, speed or incline range. In fact, the Bowflex 22 has a larger speed and incline range than many other treadmills on our list, making it a versatile choice for many users. Plus, it features a larger-than-average, 440-pound weight limit, so it works well for heavyweight individuals who need a more durable machine as well.
If you’re someone who prefers to follow along with guided workouts, we recommend opting into Bowflex’s JRNY membership. This includes instructor-led classes and the option to stream Netflix on its 22-inch display. The downside to this treadmill, though, is its near $3,000 price tag. If the Bowflex 22 exceeds your budget, consider the Bowflex BXT8J Treadmill. It also folds and offers many of the same features, but won’t have you sweating bullets over the cost.
What our experts say: “Its display is captivating, its subscription service is incredibly robust and the design contains every single premium feature you could ever hope for,” says contributor Cassandra Brooklyn in her review of the Bowflex Treadmill 22. “Whether you’re logging a few miles to stay in shape through winter or training for a marathon, the Treadmill 22 will most certainly meet your needs.”
Pros:
- Folds to nearly half its size
- Good for heavier people; 440-pound weight limit
- Wide speed and incline range suit a variety of workouts
Cons:
- Expensive; second highest priced option on our list
- Heavy; not good for moving after set-up
MOST POPULAR
Dimensions: 68 x 33 x 62 inches | Max user capacity: 290 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12.5 mph | Incline range: 0 to 12.5%
The Peloton Tread is our top treadmill for runners because it’s incredibly versatile with a maximum speed of 12.5 mph and a 12.5% maximum incline. Walk, jog, run and sprint however you see fit, plus you can easily adjust the speed without slowing down thanks to the knobs on each side of the handrails. For safety-conscious folks, the Tread also requires a safety key and passcode in order to turn on the treadmill.
However, according to our audience development director, what really makes the Peloton Tread stand out is its classes. Similar to Peloton’s exercise bikes, the Tread offers an array of interactive running classes designed to keep you motivated and engaged in your workout. It’s worth noting, though, that these classes require a membership that’ll cost you $44 a month.
What our experts says: “There’s a reason Peloton rules the cardio space,” says CPT Katie Simpson. “Not only are the machines top-notch from a construction and durability standpoint, but the classes, though pricey, are incredibly encouraging. I often hear clients who typically hate cardio comment how quickly time flies when using their Peloton.”
Pros:
- Classes keep runners at all levels engaged and motivated
- Knobs make it easier to adjust speed and incline while running
- Compact, quiet and sleek enough to fit into most homes
Cons:
- Most expensive treadmill on our list
- No pre-programed workouts; need the subscription membership to take advantage of classes
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
Over the years, the team at Forbes Vetted has published a variety of health and wellness articles that feature thoroughly researched products from brands we trust. As with any industry, fitness equipment and wellness brands make many claims, and it’s our job to cut through the noise by providing solid recommendations our readers can trust.
As such, our gear editor Cam Vigliotta, deputy editor Dave Johnson and senior strategy editor Katie Simpson have tested and reviewed countless pieces of fitness gear and equipment (everything from the best ellipticals to bike trainers). Vigliotta holds a degree in kinesiology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he spent considerable time as a pilot subject for motor control and locomotion neuromechanics graduate research. He uses his background to make informed decisions that support you and your wellness needs. Simpson is a certified personal trainer (CPT) and leveraged her experience with treadmills and feedback from clients for this story.
For additional insight into the best treadmills, we also consulted doctor of physical therapy (DPT) Chloe Costigan on the different types of treadmills and the benefits of each.
We also stay up-to-date on product pricing, availability and customer reviews with the goal of providing the most accurate, timely information possible. During each update, we re-evaluate our treadmill picks to ensure that they’re still (in our opinion) some of the best choices in their categories. This story was last updated in January 2024 for accuracy, clarity and reader experience.
How We Chose The Best Treadmills
We chose the best treadmills by performing extensive research, which included patiently sifting through firsthand reviews from professional testers and consumers. We’ve also tested many of these treadmills ourselves in the comfort of our own homes; you’ll find many of the picks on our list come personally recommended. Treadmills with less than a 4-star rating—as well as treadmills with concerning reviews—did not make the cut, however.
And because we know every shopper has different needs in terms of budget, intended purpose and storage space, our list contains a variety of options. The LifeSpan TR1200 DT3 Treadmill wide belt makes it easy to work and exercise simultaneously, plus its compact size is ideal for apartment dwellers. Those who prefer following a guided workout should enjoy the Peloton Tread, which provides access to on-screen trainers and tons of different workouts. All in all, our list includes treadmills that can suit every kind of cardio enthusiast.
Best Treadmills 2024: Buying Guide
Price: How Much Should A Treadmill Cost?
Treadmills typically range from $400 to several thousand dollars, and how much you should spend depends on the size and how many features you need. For example, the feature-packed Nordictrack Commercial 1750 costs nearly $2,000, while the barebones basic Sperax Treadmill cost under $300.
Size: What Size Room Do I Need For A Treadmill?
In order to safely get on an off your treadmill, you’ll want to give yourself about 6 feet of space behind the treadmill and 2 to 3 feet on either side to account for any sway while it’s in use.
Warranty: Do Treadmills Have A Lifetime Warranty?
Yes, the frame and motor on many treadmills have a lifetime warranty. However, you should also look for three to seven years of coverage on parts and at least one year on labor (so should you need it, you won’t have to pay for someone to fix your treadmill under a year after bringing it home).
Speed: What Is A Good Treadmill MPH?
This depends on how your planning on using your machine. If you’re using it solely for walking, look for a treadmill that can reach between three and four mph. Runners, on the other hand, typically need a machine that can top between six to eight mph.
Incline: What Is A Good Treadmill Incline?
Walking or running on an incline can up the intensity of your workout and help you get a more effective workout. Generally, a 10% incline is considered good for most treadmills. However if you prefer to do high-intensity or interval-based workouts, some exceed that maximum, like the Bowflex Treadmill 22 which has a 20% max incline.
Type: What Are The Different Types Of Treadmills?
- Motorized treadmills are the most common. They’re powered by an electric motor and offer a range of speed and inclines.
- Manual treadmills are the opposite of motorized option. They’re powered by your movement and are better for injury prevention and recovery.
- Curved treadmills have a curved running surface that’s requires more effort to move the belt, which makes it suitable for high-intensity interval training (HIIT). “Curved treadmills were intentionally designed to optimize your gait by facilitating running on the balls of your feet. This helps to improve your cadence, meaning how many steps you take per minute,” says DPT Chloe Costigan. “Typically runners take too few steps during each minute.”
- Folding treadmills have a a foldable deck that can be raised to a vertical position, allowing the treadmill to be stored in a more compact form.
- Desk treadmills combine a treadmill with a work surface, allowing you to walk or jog while working on a computer or performing other duties.
- Under-desk treadmills are compact and designed to fit under a standing desk. They allow you to walk while working, promoting movement and reducing the negative effects of prolonged sitting.
Distance: How Accurate Is Treadmill Distance?
The distance measurement on most reputable treadmills—like the ones recommended above—is fairly accurate. However, as the treadmill is used overtime, the belt can stretch and cause slight inaccuracies.
Weight: What Is The Average Treadmill Weight Capacity?
On average, a treadmill can support between 200 and 300 lbs. However, some treadmills are extra sturdy and can accommodate over 400 lbs. Make sure to consider your own body type and weight capacity needs when selecting a treadmill.
Safety: What Are Common Safety Precautions For A Treadmill?
Safety is a top priority with any gym equipment you purchase, especially with a cardio machine that features moving components. Check for fixed handrails and a sturdy, even surface. Many treadmills have an emergency clip to shut down the belt in the event of a fall.
What Brand Of Treadmill Is Best?
With the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 being our top overall pick, we believe that NordickTrack is one of the best treadmill brands out there. But, there are several others worth considering with models that offer durability, interesting features and impressive warranties. This includes machines made by Nautilus, Horizon Fitness, Bowflex and ProForm, all brands featured on our best list.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a treadmill that suits your needs from another brand. When it comes to making your decision, we suggest reading reviews and analyzing features to start. Many companies also offer a trial period that lets you try the treadmill in your home to test out for yourself. Be sure to read the fine print here, however, as some stores might charge you to pick it up or to restock the item if you want to send it back.
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