The 10 Best Treadmills for Your Home Gym in 2023 (Expert Tested)

A treadmill is often a key component in many home gyms. After all, running on a treadmill has been shown to improve cardiorespiratory function. (2) The best treadmills for your home showcase impeccable durability, training-focused features, and added conveniences that can make the notion of running outside seem less enticing than before (although there are still benefits to that running landscape).

Finding the perfect treadmill for your particular space, however, can be a challenge in itself. There are plenty of brands and models to choose from, each with its own specific features and conveniences. That doesn’t even account for the used market, which can also be loaded with premium options. To help narrow down your cardio-minded search, we tested 23 of the top-performing treadmills on the market, paced through mounds of research, and consulted with customer reviews to curate this guide to the best treadmills available today.

The 10 Best Treadmills for Your Home Gym in 2023 (Expert Tested)

• Best Overall Treadmill: Sole F80
• Most Versatile Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
• Most Durable Treadmill: Life Fitness T5 Treadmill 
• Best Affordable Treadmill: Sole F63
• Best Treadmill for Streaming: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
• Best Folding Treadmill: Sole F63
• Best Self-Powered Treadmill: Assault AirRunner Treadmill
• Best Treadmill for Running: Life Fitness Platinum Club Series
• Best Value Treadmill: Horizon T101
• Best Incline Treadmill: NordicTrack X22i

How We Tested

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. In our experience, we’ve had the pleasure of walking, jogging, and running on many top-performing treadmills. For this round-up, we relied on that experience to help us determine which factors to consider when recommending the top treadmills.

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

We understand that every athlete is working with a different budget, too, 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.

Best Overall Treadmill: Sole F80

Specs

• Price: $1,899.99
• Machine Dimensions: 66”H x 92.5”L x 38”W
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline and Decline: 15% incline, 0% decline
• Max User Capacity: 350lbs

Pros

• The Cushion Flex Whisper Deck can reduce joint impact by 40 percent, according to the brand.
• This machine is built with a durable steel frame, which is backed by a lifetime warranty.
• The 12-mile-per-hour max speed and up to 15 percent incline adjustments offer varied training intensities.

Cons

• This machine’s library of 10-preprogrammed training modules is less expansive than other treadmills. 
• Those who need to save space may want a smaller option.
• The F80 is cheaper than many comparable models but still costs a pretty penny.

With an impressive lineup of performance-based features, a Cushion Flex Whisper Deck for underfoot comfort, max speeds up to 12 miles per hour, incline adjustments up to 15 percent, and an approachable price tag under $2,000, we think the Sole F80 is the best treadmill available today.

According to the brand, the Cushion Flex Whisper Deck can reduce impact by up to 40 percent when compared to running on asphalt. This can be ideal for individuals dealing with bad knees and joint discomfort during training. In testing, we definitely appreciated this build quality, which helped keep every stride well-cushioned and cozy, regardless of our pace.

The Sole F80 is also a good pick for athletes looking to save space, as the running deck folds upward to create a footprint measuring 11.61 square feet. That’s 10.16 square feet less than the machine’s 21.77-square-foot impact on your floor plan while in operation.

There’s also a good sense of stability across this well-built treadmill. Our tester said this machine was solid as a rock during training, and they appreciated the sturdy design as they pushed their pace and intensity. Even if you happen to come across a malfunctioning component, Sole backs this treadmill with a hearty warranty package, which includes lifetime coverage for the frame and motor, three-year coverage for the deck, parts, and wear items, as well as one-year coverage for labor.

Read our full Sole F80 Treadmill Review.

Most Versatile Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Specs

• Price: $2,499
• Machine Dimensions: 65”H x 80”L x 38”W
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline and Decline: 12% incline, -3% decline
• Max User Capacity: 300lbs

Pros

• This treadmill is iFit-enabled and capable of streaming over 17,000 live and on-demand fitness classes for varied training in every session. 
• You can integrate with Google Maps to get an accurate idea of different real-world routes.
• You get a pitch range of -3 percent decline to 15 percent incline.

Cons

• Despite its foldable deck, this is still a large treadmill at 21.11 square feet while in use.
• Folks working with a tight budget may want to find a cheaper treadmill.

There’s a reason this impressive machine is one of our favorite NordicTrack treadmills overall. The versatility is unparalleled thanks to the Commercial 1750’s integration with the iFit online workout program — a fitness service offering over 17,000 various live and on-demand fitness classes. 

Streaming your workouts is easy across the 10-inch touchscreen, according to our tester, and the display even swivels for more convenient off-treadmill viewing experiences. You can participate in any of the iFit programs for strength training, stretching, or yoga without straining your neck.

Our tester also commended the Commercial 1750 for its ability to operate without much audible feedback. We understand that no machine will be completely silent while in use, but this particular profile is still impressively quiet as it works through speeds up to 12 miles per hour and inclines between negative three and 15 percent.

Speaking of adjustments, you don’t need to worry about toggling your settings when in the throes of an iFit-powered run. During your trainer-led workouts, the 1750 automatically adjusts the speed, incline, and decline based on each specific workout. You can always utilize the manual adjustments when necessary, too, so don’t feel like you need to stick to the iFit library to create that varied setup. 

The 1750 also has a hydraulic lift system, so you can make the most of your space when you’re ready to store it — though it still has a fairly large footprint. According to our measurements, the 1750 takes up 21.11 square feet while in use.

If you’re looking for a product that has it all and offers a dizzying array of workouts, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is durable, comes packed with technology, and can add variety to your runs. 

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill Review.

Most Durable Treadmill: Life Fitness T5 Treadmill

Specs

• Price: $5,252
• Machine Dimensions: 61”H x 79.5”L x 32”W
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline and Decline: 15% incline, 0% decline
• Max User Capacity: 400lbs

Pros

• The durable steel frame and 400-pound weight capacity are ideal for larger athletes.
• There is a lifetime warranty on the frame and shock absorbers.
• The FlexDeck® can mimic running in grass, on a track, and on pavement, according to the brand.

Cons

• At over $5,000, this is one of the most expensive treadmills in this guide.
• This treadmill does not offer a folding mechanism for easier storage.

Durability is a huge factor in finding the right gym equipment, and the Life Fitness T5 treadmill is known for its sturdy steel frame, cushioned deck, and high weight capacity of up to 400 pounds. Another awesome feature of this treadmill is that, according to the brand, it’s designed to reduce energy consumption by as much as 90 percent through the included Efficient Energy Saver technology. 

The Life Fitness T5 features a steel frame that can withstand daily exercise and accommodate athletes up to 400 pounds. We also like that Life Fitness includes a lifetime warranty on the frame of the T5, a 10-year warranty on the drive motor, seven years on parts, and three years on the console. This can be especially reassuring when you consider that this is one of the more expensive profiles out there at $5,252.

Our tester also enjoyed the various underfoot sensations made possible by the FlexDeck® cushioning technology. This feature allowed them to adjust the firmness of the deck to mimic running on grass, a track, or pavement. For this reason, the T5 can be a solid wintertime piece of fitness equipment to help keep your run streak going once the weather begins to turn for the worse.

You have two console options with the T5, as well. The base console is not the most high-tech option out there. It doesn’t offer any type of Bluetooth capabilities and only features 13 preloaded workouts along with one custom workout for each of the two user profiles that can be created. One five-star reviewer loved the simplicity, though. “Excellent piece of equipment. Easy to use pre-programmed routines,” they say. “Use the pre-programmed routines to modify workouts and vary the effort.” 

Read our full Life Fitness T5 Treadmill Review.

Best Budget Treadmill: Sole F63

Specs

• Price: $1,199.99
• Machine Dimensions: 67”H x 77”L x 35”W
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline and Decline: 15% incline, 0% decline
• Max User Capacity: 325lbs

Pros

• The sub-$1,200 price tag is one of the most affordable we found during testing.
• This treadmill offers Bluetooth connectivity for music listening and data tracking.
• The machine folds easily to 12.15 square feet for convenient storage.

Cons

• The basic LCD console may be underwhelming for some athletes.
• Folks who want a decline option on their treadmill won’t find one here. 

The F63 is a treadmill with many of the features and capabilities of other premium treadmills. Its 325-pound weight capacity, cushioned running deck, Bluetooth integration, and folding design would typically cost over $2,000, but the F63 trumps that price at a more approachable cost of $1,199.99. Plus, you can put it together quickly, according to our testers. The assembly process, according to their feedback, was rather effortless and took less than an hour in total.

We appreciate this treadmill’s max speed of 12 miles per hour, which can be great for supporting all-out sprints across the 20-inch by 60-inch running deck. You also get incline capabilities up to 15 percent for training ascents and hill climbs, but those wanting a decline range should look elsewhere since there’s no decline setting on this tread.

We also appreciate how accommodating this machine is for slower-paced training, as we found it’s one of the best walking treadmills on the market, as well. This is due to the F63’s low starting speed of one mile per hour, as well as its built-in cooling fans for added comfort during training.

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

For those of us who aren’t working with an unlimited budget, finding a high-quality yet budget-friendly treadmill can be a challenge. The Sole F63 includes many of the most sought-after options while still remaining rather affordable.

Read our full Sole F63 Treadmill Review.

Best Treadmill for Streaming: NordicTrack Commercial 2450

Specs

• Price: $2,999
• Machine Dimensions: 65”H x 78.5”L x 35.6”W
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline and Decline: 12% incline, -3% decline
• Max User Capacity: 300lbs

Pros

• The 22-inch HD touchscreen and iFit integration make this ideal for streaming enthusiasts.
• AutoAdjust technology automatically syncs your speed and incline to your trainer-led workouts.
• This treadmill can support both incline and decline settings for more versatile setups.

Cons

• The 300-pound weight limit is lower than other treadmills in this guide.
• The $2,999 price tag may be too rich for some budgets.

If streaming fitness classes keeps you motivated, the NordicTrack 2450 might be the best fit for you. This tread features a 22-inch touchscreen monitor loaded with iFit workouts offering a plethora of classes, challenges, and trainer-led sessions. The display can also tilt to fit your needs and rotates 360 degrees for more convenient off-treadmill training.

The Commercial 2450 also boasts AutoAdjust technology, which our tester enjoyed greatly during testing. While they stated that the iFit instructors give clear instructions through every workout, having the convenience of automatic adjustments to your speed and incline can allow you to focus more on your performance and less on tweaking your settings during training.

The 2450 also showcases a sturdy frame, which our tester said had no wobbliness or shakes during their runs, regardless of the speed and incline. It should be noted, though, that larger athletes may need to search for a different treadmill silhouette, as the 2450 is only capable of supporting loads up to 300 pounds.

The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 also has ActivePulse™ technology that allows the treadmill to auto-adjust the resistance in order to maintain your optimal heart-rate zone — you’ll just need to purchase a SmartBeat™ heart rate monitor to use this feature. 

Due to its high-tech nature, you’ll be spending about $3,000 on this treadmill, but if you can stomach that price tag, we think this tread is well worth it. Pro tip: You may want to hire a professional to help put this together; according to our testers, it’s definitely a two-person job.

Read our full NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill Review.

Best Folding Treadmill: Sole F63

Specs

• Price: $1,199.99
• Machine Dimensions: 67”H x 77”L x 35”W
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline and Decline: 15% incline, 0% decline
• Max User Capacity: 325lbs

Pros

• The F63 folds up to 12.15 square feet, which can be great for saving space.
• A max speed of 12 miles per hour can be great for high-intensity training and sprints.
• This treadmill’s simple display is ideal for athletes who want a straightforward cardio machine.

Cons

• Our tester did notice some shakiness while training at higher intensities.
• This treadmill doesn’t have any decline ability. 

The Sole F63 is our favorite folding treadmill because the storage-friendly mechanism is so intuitive and simple. The hydraulic system here makes folding an easy one-person job, and the 12.15-square-foot storage footprint is ideal when trying to maximize your floor plan. For reference, the F63 takes up 18.72 square feet during operation.

We also appreciate the durable design that can support weights up to 325 pounds. Our tester did note, though, that you can experience some frame shake if you’re running at higher speeds and inclines that edge closer to the machine’s maximum capacities of 12 miles per hour and 15 percent inclines. At slower jogging paces, though, they noted no wobbliness.

This folding treadmill is also a favorite of ours thanks to its basic console. There are not a lot of tech features, and we appreciate the simplicity. That said, the F63 is still Bluetooth compatible, which allows you to pair your smartphone to the speakers for listening to your favorite training tunes or following along with your online workout program. Plus, an integrated tablet holder allows you to stream your favorite workouts and programs during workouts (with a little DIY setup, of course).

Sole also provides you with a worthwhile warranty package with this foldable, budget-friendly machine. The F63 comes with lifetime coverage for the frame and motor, along with two-year coverage on parts, wear items, and the running deck itself. Labor is also included with a one-year warranty, while cosmetic items are covered for 90 days.

[Related: 30-Minute Treadmill Workouts to Build Stamina and Strength]

Best Manual Treadmill: Assault AirRunner Treadmill

Specs

• Price: $2,999
• Machine Dimensions: 64.4”H x 69.9”L x 31.7”W

• Max Speed: Depends on your fitness level
• Max Incline and Decline: N/A

• Max User Capacity: 350lbs

Pros

• The manual makeup means you control your speed and intensity, which can be great for HIIT workouts.
• This treadmill doesn’t require electricity, so you can place it anywhere you want.
• The thick rubber belt has a 150,000-mile lifespan for the most grueling workouts.

Cons

• There are no convenient holsters for your water bottle or smartphone across the console.
• There are no incline or decline adjustments.

Looking to take control of your entire 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, the Assault AirRunner is our go-to recommendation.

We love the simplicity of this curved treadmill, as there’s no electricity required to get into a worthwhile workout. This means you can place the Assault AirRunner anywhere you’d prefer without the need of a nearby outlet. Additionally, the curved track can be great for supporting a more natural running stride and gait performance, according to studies. (3) “Running has felt great. [I] never knew how to run properly, so this has helped me tremendously,” adds one positive customer review.

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. You’ll need to keep your water bottle and smartphone off to the side. A minor inconvenience, sure, but it is less convenient than having your refreshment handy for mid-stride sips or your smartphone within reach for quick changes to your playlist.

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. 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 Running: Life Fitness Platinum Club Series

Specs

• Price: $10,559
• Machine Dimensions: 62.25”H x 80”L x 36”W
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline and Decline: 15% incline, 0% decline
• Max User Capacity: 400lbs

Pros

• This running treadmill’s strong four horsepower motor and sturdy deck make it perfect for tough tempo intervals and sprints.
• The FlexDeck® shock absorption system is perfect for athletes dealing with nagging joints.
• You get included on-demand workouts at your disposal on the touchscreen monitor.

Cons

• This is one of the most expensive treadmills on the market.
• This treadmill does not support decline training.

For those looking to channel their inner Olympian while running on a treadmill, this next pick from Life Fitness might be the best option for you. The powerful motor can reach up to 8 HP during peak performance, making it great for both long-distance running and interval training through its sustained power and ability to quickly change speeds. 

While it may feature the highest price tag on this list of around $10,600, the Platinum Club Series may be worth every penny for hardcore runners. The 3.5-inch rollers here are built for the long haul (as well as long-distance runs), and the deck features eight shock absorbers to reduce impact by 30 percent, according to the brand.

The 21.5-inch touchscreen monitor features Bluetooth capabilities for your headphones and heart rate monitor, as well, but you can also pair your phone to stream your favorite tunes or Netflix shows, among other popular streaming services. You’ll also gain access to on-demand, trainer-led classes from Life Fitness — and they are always adding more to the monitor free of charge.

This treadmill was definitely built to last, according to our tester. It has a sturdy steel frame, can hold up to 400 pounds, and features an extremely powerful 4.0 CHP motor that can carry out long endurance runs and tough interval work on a daily basis. For reference, CHP indicates a motor’s output over an extended period of time, whereas HP just showcases the motor’s maximum output. (4) This is why the Life Fitness Platinum Club Series lists its motor at 4.0 CHP, but can reach peaks of up to 8.0 HP.

Our tester also appreciated the 22-inch wide running deck that granted more room for comfortable strides and sprints. The wider surface gave a nice sense of space for arm swings, too, especially when sprinting toward the end of an interval, according to their feedback.

While the $10,559 price tag immediately places this treadmill out of question for some budgets, we still think this is a quality option, especially for the most dedicated runners. Other customers share this sentiment, including one who states, “I am a long-distance runner, and this treadmill makes it easy for me to put my miles in.”

Read our full Life Fitness Platinum Club Series Treadmill Review.

Best Value Treadmill: Horizon T101

Specs

• Price: $999
• Machine Dimensions: 57”H x 71”L x 34”W
• Max Speed: 10mph
• Max Incline and Decline: 10% incline, 0% decline
• Max User Capacity: 300lbs

Pros

• At just under $1,000, this is a great budget-friendly machine. 
• This machine can be easily folded to save space in small apartments or home gyms.
• The three-zone cushion system can help protect your joints without breaking the bank.

Cons

• This treadmill’s 10-mile-per-hour max speed is lower than other products we’ve tested.
• The incline range is only up to 10 percent, which is lower than most other machines.

When looking for the best value, we tend to look for a high-quality tread that has numerous features along with a relatively inexpensive price tag — anywhere from $1,200 and below. In our opinion, the T101 from Horizon meets these criteria handily. While it may not offer a built-in option to stream workout classes, it does have Bluetooth capabilities, a tablet holder, speeds up to 10 miles per hour, and inclines up to 10 percent for under $1,000.

Our tester 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. For this reason, we also think this is a great pick for athletes interested in interval training.

The T101’s three-zone cushion system is pretty unique, too. 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 treadmill’s running surface measures 55 inches long, whereas other treadmills often feature a 60-inch running deck. 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 can still get the job done for most athletes. Coming in at under $1,000, this tread won’t have all the fancy features of more expensive treadmills. However, it still offers great cushioning and a tablet holder, so you can stream workout classes like you might on a more advanced tread. 

Read our full Horizon T101 Treadmill Review.

Best Incline Treadmill: NordicTrack X22i

Specs

• Price: $3,499
• Machine Dimensions: 72.5”H x 70”L x 39”W
• Max Speed: 12mph
• Max Incline and Decline: 40% incline, -6% decline
• Max User Capacity: 300lbs

Pros

• This machine can go up to a 40 percent incline — the highest range we found in testing. 
• The negative six percent decline (and 40 percent incline) abilities are perfect for mimicking outdoor running conditions.
• The iFit-enabled display grants you access to over 17,000 online fitness classes.

Cons

• The 300-pound weight capacity is lower than other treadmills tested.
• Compared to alternatives, this machine has a steep $3,4999 price tag (pun intended).

The NordicTrack X22i is a standout piece of equipment for its incline abilities, which were some of the most impressive we experienced in testing. This premium machine can reach pitches up to 40 percent, as well as declines down to negative six percent for a wide array of potential setups for intense, challenging workouts.

Like other NordicTrack treadmills, the X22i is integrated with the iFit platform, which can be ideal for keeping every training session engaging and entertaining. 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.

Our tester 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.

The warranty package is also worthwhile with this incline-capable treadmill. According to the brand, the X22i is covered for 10 years on the frame, two years on parts, and one year on labor. We appreciate this package, as the X22i features a lower weight capacity than other profiles at just 300 pounds max.

If you have the budget for it and are dedicated to incline training, we think the X22i is the best option 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!”

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial X22i Treadmill Review.

How We Chose the Best Treadmills

No matter where you’re planning to put a new treadmill, it will automatically become a key component in any gym. Here are all the qualities we looked for 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. When looking at those lower prices, we look for the qualities of higher-priced treadmills and consider these low-cost options a steal. 

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 definitely showcase that “get what you pay for” notion more often than not. 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.

Special Features

Some people are looking for modernized technological features, 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 have rounded up treadmills with some of the coolest features for this list. But any runner who doesn’t want to complicate their workout with technology can find a pick on this list for them, as well.

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 cheaper 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 if you’re paying less.

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 most 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 can be optimal for varied training. Decline capabilities are also a nice touch, although these settings were 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 ranging in size from 28.10 square feet to 42.4 square feet to help you find the ideal profile for your floor plan. Some compact treadmills can be space-saving treats, while others showcase burlier builds that require a good bit of room for optimal placement.

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 are the Benefits of Treadmills?

Treadmills are a great tool for people of all fitness levels. As such, there are a slurry 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 for a variety of athletes because there’s no standard speed or intensity that you need to achieve in a given training session. While many picture treadmills as running-focused machines, there’s plenty of potential for these profiles to suit lower-intensity workouts like walking or jogging, as well. After all, these slower disciplines can still have a positive effect on your cardiovascular health and quality of life when done consistently. (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.

Finally, many of the top-performing treadmills, such as those included in this round-up, utilize outside online workout programs to generate engaging and entertaining workout modules. These can be great for keeping every session fresh and inviting with ranging speeds and approach angles.

Personalized Workout Schedules

Having a treadmill readily available in your home can be great for keeping your training schedule in check. You don’t need to account for daylight or heavy traffic as you would with outdoor runs, and there’s no need to commute to a training center to hop on a piece of equipment. You can truly train whenever convenient, which can be ideal for athletes already crunched for time with other responsibilities like work, families, and other time-consuming endeavors.

No Outside Factors to Consider

One of the beauties of running on a treadmill is that you don’t need to account for the weather forecast. While your outside running sessions will need to account for the elements like snow, rain, wind, and temperatures, 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).

It may not be the exact same as outdoor running, but you can still train despite Mother Nature trying to say otherwise. A treadmill is a must for those who train in areas that can have inclement weather for days on end.

How Much Do Treadmills Cost?

The price of treadmills can range more than nearly any other type of fitness equipment. There are some budget-friendly options that you can get away with spending under $1,000, but that’s usually the floor for most high-quality treads. On the other hand, you can spend $3,000 or even over $10,000 on a high-end, tech-heavy treadmill with tons of gadgets and features.

Best Overall Treadmill	Sole F80	$1,899.99
Most Versatile Treadmill	NordicTrack Commercial 1750	$2,499
Most Durable Treadmill	Life Fitness T5 Treadmill	$5,252
Best Budget Treadmill	Sole F63	$1,199.99
Best Treadmill for Streaming	NordicTrack Commercial 2450	$2,999
Best Folding Treadmill	Sole F63	$1,199.99
Best Manual Treadmill	Assault AirRunner Treadmill	$2,999
Best Treadmill for Running	Life Fitness Platinum Club Series	$10,559
Best Value Treadmill	Horizon T101	$999
Best Incline Treadmill	NordicTrack X22i	$3,499

Of course, it’s important to consider the cost of the actual machine, but an increasing number are limited in their use without a companion streaming subscription. These memberships have a pretty standard range between $30 and $50 per month, though some companies offer a discount for annual enrollment. When budgeting for your treadmill purchase, make sure to account for this potential added cost, as well.

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. Take a few minutes in your available training area, break out your measuring tape, and ensure you have enough available space to accommodate your new machine.

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.

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 $3500 and above.

You also need to factor in any additional subscription service 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.

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/