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The best treadmills can help you achieve your fitness goals with flying (or, running) colors.
A sweet new piece of feel-good equipment will rev up your home gym setup, especially for inclined power walks and paced runs.
The thing is this — finding the best treadmill for sale can be as tiring as running a marathon. Some are, in fact, not great for running at all. Depending on belt size, your weight, and the motor, some machines are better for walking or jogging. You’ll also have to decide if you want a manual treadmill or a motorized treadmill and consider how much you’re willing to spend for a hands-free running experience.
The good news is that we’ve done as much of the fancy footwork for you as possible. We’ve quizzed our resident runners, and have spoken to some fitness experts about which treadmills are the best. Whether you’re in the market for a mini treadmill under $500 like the Goplus Foldable Electric Treadmill or a gym-quality machine like the NordicTrack T Series 6.5 Treadmill, we’ve found something for you.
We also asked some experts for their favorite treadmills. Jump (or should we say run?) to our FAQ with them below or keep reading to see our picks.
If you’re really splurging on your home-gym, don’t forget to check our reviews on the best rowing machines, exercise bikes, and elliptical machines, too.
Best are the best brands for treadmills?
Best Treadmill for Home: NordicTrack T Series 6.5 Treadmill
Amazon AmazonDesigned for consistent runners, the fan-favorite and Amazon’s Choice NordicTrack T Series 6.5 Treadmill includes a free one-month iFit membership to stream on-demand workouts right from your machine. There are a couple of things Martins likes about the Nordictrack, including its “variety of workouts and its “40% incline.”
Plus, the training system auto-adjusts your speed and inclines through Bluetooth. Most impressively, it folds up compactly for easy storage. While it’s not an under-desk treadmill by any means, it’s still space-saving when not in use. The included auxiliary music port and dual 2-inch speakers provide some running entertainment, too.
New York Post Review: “I’ve owned at least four big-name treadmills in my adult life,” said Updates Editor, Holly J Coley. “The NordicTrack T Series is my favorite and the one I currently use. It connects to iFit but you’re not obligated to be an active member to enjoy the machine’s bells and whistles. It’s sturdy, so you can really run as fast as you can without worrying about breaking anything or some screw coming loose. It doesn’t have a fan, which stinks, but I’m not opposed to opening a window if things get too hot. It’s big, so if you’re in a small apartment it may be an eyesore. However, for those with homes or basements, it’s amazing and way cheaper than some of the other treadmills out there.”
Dimensions: 73.5″ L x 36″ W x 54″ H | Foldable: Yes | Belt length: 20″ W x 55″ L | Incline Range: 0% to 10% | Speed range: 0 to 10 mph | Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Best Cushion: Bowflex Treadmill Series
AmazonMartins not only “loves their design,” but also points out that with 15 years of warranty, users should feel confident they will be getting their money’s worth. Bowflex’s Treadmill Series offers a thick platformed ComfortTech base that’ll make you feel like you’re running on top of the world. Plus, the included screen creates daily adaptive workouts that adjust with over-time improvement.
That said, you’ll have built-in motivation to get you on the treadmill and running to your next goal. You can also watch Disney+, Hulu, Netflix, and other streaming services with the 7″ touchscreen and follow more than 50 global routes to guide you on your workout.
Dimensions: 84.6″ L x 36.3″ W x 55.2″ H | Foldable: Yes, with SoftDrop folding system | Belt length: 60″ L x 20″ W | Incline Range: 0% to 15% motorized incline | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Warranty: Not available
Best Foldable Treadmill: Goplus 2.25HP Foldable Electric Treadmill
WalmartBelieve it or not, some of the best treadmills for your home gym are under $500, and this is one of them. Along with having 12 preprogrammed workouts, an incline function that goes up to three levels, and a good-sized running belt — the folding treadmill is also very simple to assemble. There’s also a safety key, an LCD screen to see your distance, speed, and calorie burn, and hand pulse sensors. Not bad for such an affordable treadmill.
New York Pot Review: “This is a favorite of one of my friends,” says our Updates Editor. “You wouldn’t think it would be good because of the low price, but it offers a lot. The setup is simple and it has all the basics, such as programs and incline.”
Dimensions: 62″ L x 26.5″ W x 49.5″ H | Foldable: Yes | Belt length: 47″ L x 15.5″ W | Incline Range: 3-level manual adjustment | Speed range: 0.5 to 7.5 mph | Warranty: Not specified
Best Self-Powered: AssaultRunner Pro
AmazonSmall it’s not, but this treadmill is frequently mentioned as the machine to know if you’re seeking an efficient and quiet workout. It’s non-electric, hence the minimized noise, offering peanut butter smooth movement. It may take some time to get used to if you’ve never used a self-propelled treadmill, but it can go up to 20 miles per hour — if you can run that fast — and has a small but loaded dash. The belt has tread, too, and the transport wheels in the front make it a tad easier to move from point A to B.
New York Post Review: Commerce Writer Miska Salemann loves this pick: “This is not your ordinary treadmill. Don’t expect to be able to hold a conversation while running. The belt is self-propelled which requires much more effort to get it started and keep it going. By the end of my workout, I’m drenched in sweat. It’s more challenging than a motorized treadmill, but such a great workout. I sort of hate myself for loving it. Also worth noting is that some people mention these types of treadmills are ‘scary’ to run on because it’s hard to stop them once you’re going fast, but I’ve found that it’s pretty easy to control the pace on this one.”
Dimensions: 69.9″ L x 31.7″ W x 64.4″ H | Foldable: No | Belt length: 17″ W x 62″ L | Incline Range: Not applicable | Speed range: User-controlled; unlimited | Warranty: 5-year frame, 3-year moving parts, 150,000-mile belt
Best Portable Treadmill: Echelon Stride Treadmill
WalmartThe Echelon Stride Treadmill has a metal safety bar underneath to protect objects from being pulled under and offers a secure and solid stride. Martins appreciates the smart, foldable design of the treadmill, which makes it turn into “easy storage equipment.” We like the oversized running deck and Bluetooth connectivity for personalized, convenient running.
Reviewers praise its sleekness, as well as how smoothly it runs. “Quiet” and “great” are just two adjectives being used to describe it. Compact and easy to operate, it’s a sturdy running machine that will accompany you into many miles of sweat sessions.
New York Post Review: “Echelon is a trusted brand,” says our Updates Editor. “I’d gladly use it for its smoothness. Trust me, you don’t want to run or jog on a machine that quakes beneath your feet.”
Dimensions: 65″ L x 28″ W x 50″ H | Foldable: Yes, with patented auto-fold technology | Belt length: 48″ L x 20″ W | Incline Range: 12 levels, up to a 10% incline grade | Speed range: 0.5 to 10 mph | Warranty: Not specified; please refer to the retailer or manufacturer for details
Best Treadmill with Incline: NordicTrack New Commercial 2450
NordicTrackA 3.6 CHP Motor, a 20 by 60-inch tread belt, and a pivoting 22-inch screen are just three things that make this treadmill worth its weight in gold. Capable of adjusting hands-free and armed with Bluetooth connectivity, working out with this is actually fun. A membership to iFit is included, giving you access to more than 1,000 workouts, ranging from HIIT to boot camp to running. The touchscreen pivots, too, making it easy to do non-running workouts, and the luxe treadmill not only inclines but can decline by 3% for days you’d like to pretend you’re jogging downhill. Don’t forget to check out other NordicTrack treadmills here.
New York Post Review: “A dream to run on. Nordictrack is my favorite brand when it comes to treadmills, and this is easily my favorite model,” shared Salemann. “It offers both incline and decline (a rare feature among treadmills), which mimics a true running environment. The screen also tilts and pivots which helps reduce glare, and personalize the viewpoint, depending on your height. The immersive visuals are also stunning. I feel like I am getting a free tour of the world while running. It’s a great distraction from your workout.”
Dimensions: 81.2″ L x 39.2″ W x 69.9″ H | Foldable: Yes, with SpaceSaver design and EasyLift Assist | Belt length: 60″ L x 20″ W | Incline Range: -3% decline to 12% incline | Speed range: 0 to 14 mph | Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Best Walking Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7603 Motorized Folding Treadmill

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7603 Motorized Folding Treadmill is not a bad option if you’re trying to increase your activity level but aren’t ready to invest in a $1,000 plus machine. The machine has all of the basics, including an LCD screen to monitor the heart and pulse rate. It tracks distance, and time and includes nine workout programs to switch up your cardio and strive toward increased improvement.
The built-in treadmill cushioning means less impact on your joints and legs when challenging yourself on an incline. And, to spotlight the star of the show: its easy fold-up design with two transportation wheels makes it perfect to store without damaging your floors. Its motor is only 1.25, which is not something any of us would recommend for jogging. However, for burning a few extra calories in the privacy of your home? It gets the job done.
Dimensions: 49.6″ L x 26″ W x 47″ H | Foldable: Yes, with easy folding mechanism | Belt length: 39″ L x 14″ W | Incline Range: Fixed incline at 4.8° (not adjustable) | Speed range: 0.5 to 5 mph | Warranty: Not available
Best with Touchscreen: Peloton Tread
Dick's Sporting GoodsGet smart about your workout. The Peloton Tread makes it easy with its intuitive design. Controls on the side of each bar allow for adjustment of speed and incline without breaking your stride. Martins also loves the “amazing screen and rubberized slat belt” on the Tread — at 24 inches, the screen makes it a breeze to follow streaming classes without squinting or hunching your back. The 59-inch textured running belt gives plenty of leg room, and the machine can handle up to 300 pounds. Although you’ll need a Peloton membership ($44) to access all the streaming workouts and your metrics, the machine still operates without it and is as solid as it comes.
Dimensions: 68″ L x 33″ W x 62″ H | Foldable: No; the Peloton Tread has a fixed frame and does not fold | Belt length: 59″ L x 20″ W | Incline Range: 0% to 12.5% | Speed range: 0 to 12.5 mph | Warranty: Not available
Best with Programs: Schwinn Fitness 810 Treadmill
AmazonAccording to Harvard Health, working out on an incline can not only help build endurance but also boost the intensity of your sweat sesh. This Schwinn treadmill’s incline goes up a whopping 10%, plus has a bunch of other features. The belt can run up to 10 miles per hour, which means you can sprint until your heart’s content. Easily view your stats on the bluelit LCD screen, while enjoying the feel of the SoftTrack Cushioning System. This treadmill has 16 different preprogrammed workouts to prevent boredom, and when you want to throw caution to the wind, just press the incline till you feel like you’re climbing a mountain.
Customers seem to agree that this user-friendly machine is one of the best treadmills you can invest in. “I can say that it’s whisper quiet, the controls are very intuitive, and it’s rock solid — doesn’t budge while you’re using it,” one pleased runner commented.
Dimensions: 69.1″ L x 35.6″ W x 56.7″ H | Foldable: Yes, with SoftDrop folding system | Belt length: 20″ W x 55″ L | Incline Range: 0% to 10% | Speed range: 0 to 10 mph | Warranty: Not available
Best Under Desk Treadmill: Pro-Form City L6
Pro-FormIt’s amazing how affordable this sleek, space-saving, smart treadmill is. It folds flat, goes up to 8 miles per hour, and has a 1.6 CHP motor. While it may not be the best pick if you have extra long legs (the belt length is on the shorter side), it does come with a 30-day free trial iFit membership, giving access to immersive-style workouts. We also consider this one of the best folding treadmills for small spaces, so if you’re in an apartment, it’s worth consideration.
What customers are saying: “This treadmill is compact, a great value, and was so easy to set up. It is perfect for my small townhouse and is very simple to use and move around if needed. The easy storage and slim design was exactly what I was looking for to stay active without the bulk of a normal-sized treadmill.”
Dimensions: 45″ H x 29″ W x 71″ D | Foldable: Yes, with SpaceSaver design | Belt length: 18″ W x 47″ L | Incline Range: No incline | Speed range: 0 to 8 mph | Warranty: Not available
Buyers Guide: What do I need to know before buying a treadmill?
Treadmills are amazing exercise machines, offering a way to increase stamina and improve cardiovascular health. While shopping for one, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Space/Location: Even the most compact treadmill can be on the larger side. Unless you have an entire room dedicated to exercise, it will probably be wise to measure the area you’d like to place your treadmill in. If applicable, consider how it will fit folded, as well as when in use. Make sure there’s enough wall space between the machine, as well as your arms. If it’s an electric treadmill, it’s also important to note where the nearest outlet is and if the machine’s plug will have easy access to it.
- Budget: Treadmills range from under $100 to well over $2,000. Pricier treadmills tend to have more features and to last longer. However, there are some quality options, like the Sunny Health & Fitness TF-T7610 (Amazon, $278.20), that are under $1,000. Read reviews, and take into account how often you plan to use your machine and the types of workouts you’d like to use it for. This can indicate if a higher-end treadmill is worth the investment or if a more cost-effective option will suffice.
- Features: Determine your must-have features, such as incline, speed range or access to immersive classes. This will help narrow down your search.
- Motor/Horsepower: A treadmill’s motor will help you determine what type of activity it’s best for. If you’re a runner or sprinter, look for treadmills with a CHP of 3, like the 3G Cardio 80i (Amazon, $2,399). Prefer walking? A 2CHP motor should work. Joggers are recommended to use treadmills with a CHP of at least 2.5.
- Warranty: In the end, a treadmill is a machine that can break. Make sure the one you choose comes with a reasonable warranty or one you can purchase in addition to the machine.
Along with all these factors, take time to read reviews. Many merchants’ product pages allow for search by specific words, so if you want a quiet treadmill or one that’s easy to assemble, look to see if other customers have confirmed that the treadmill you like has these characteristics. When in doubt, sticking to reputable brands with good customer service may also lower your risk of disappointment.
Which brand of treadmill is best for your home?
If you’re a fitness buff or have just been deep in treadmill research, you know there are many treadmill brands to shop. Similar to any industry and category, there are always smaller, independent brands popping up. Although some are quite good, if you’re looking for workout equipment that’s been trusted for decades, there are a few workout equipment names to know.
One is NordicTrack, which is known for gym-quality treadmills, as well as treadmills perfect for home use. The company also makes exercise bikes, row machines, ellipticals, and free weights.
Another brand that makes awesome treadmills is Echelon Fitness. We’re talking sturdy pieces of machinery with lots of functional features. Some even come with 30-day memberships to workout streaming platforms!
Regardless of which treadmill brand you go with, it’s recommended to consider the length of the treadmill’s belt, its horsepower, and deck cushioning. Consider if you intend to use the machine for walking, running or a combo of both, as this will also direct you to the best treadmill machine for you. Other fitness brands worth looking into include:
Treadmill FAQs
For answers to some frequently asked questions and expert recommendations, the shopping team has also consulted Joao Martins, a NASM-certified personal trainer at Equinox.
What are the positive health impacts of using a treadmill?
Martins explained that treadmills are an incredible tool for improving your cardiovascular system and burning calories. For some people, the machines could also be a safer option than running on uneven terrain outside.
“It can improve your aerobic fitness and can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels if you exercise regularly,” noted Martins. “The most recent treadmills are a great way of doing cardio with low impact on your joints, they are ideal for people with joint pain or recovering from injuries.”
He added that convenience is another huge draw of treadmill use. “You don’t need to leave your house or workplace or wait for the rain to stop to do your workout. The calories that you can burn in a 20 or 30-minute workout can go between 300 to 1000 calories, depending on your level and the intensity.”
How often should you use a treadmill?
“It depends on everybody’s goals,” said Martins. “People that are working out to run a marathon, I would say six times a week. People that want to lose fat but at the same time, tone and define, two to three times a week.”
What should you look for in a treadmill?
“As a personal trainer, safety comes first,” explained Martins. “If I don’t feel that my clients are not safe, I would never prescribe a treadmill exercise putting their health at risk.”
Martins also mentioned that those considering buying a treadmill should look for ones that offer many workouts to choose from. Advanced treadmills can also shift according to the body position of the runner.
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