A new treadmill can help you achieve your fitness goals with flying (or, running) colors.
The thing is this: shopping the best treadmills 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.
The good news is that we’ve done as much of the fancy footwork for you as possible. We’ve quizzed our resident runners, as well as spoke to some fitness experts about which treadmills are the best. Whether you’re in the market for a 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.
Pros:
- Up to 40% incline
- Folds for easy storage
- On-demand workouts available through iFit
There are a couple of things Martins likes about the Nordictrack, including its “variety of workouts” and it “40% incline.”
We at The Post like it for it’s smooth running belt and easy storage. Updates Editor Holly J Coley had this to say about it:
“I’ve owned at least four big name treadmills in my adult life. 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 worry about breaking anything or some screw coming loose.
“It doesn’t have a fan, which stink, but I’m not oppose to opening a window if things get too hot. It’s big, so if you’re in a small apartment it may be an eye sore. However, for those with homes or basements, it’s amazing and way cheaper than some of the other treadmills out there.”
Designed 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. 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.
Dimensions: 73 x 35.8 x 67.5 inches
Pros:
- Two water bottle holders
- 5” Multi-Function blue-ray LCD Display
Cons:
- Only goes up to 7.5 MPH
- Three incline levels
Believe 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 16 by 47-inch running belt, the folding treadmills is 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.
“This is a favorite of one of my friends,” says our Updates Editor. “You wouldn’t think it would good because of the low price, but it offers a lot. The set up is simple and it has all the basics, such as programs and incline.”
Many shoppers believe this is a quality option at a lower price point. “Setting up was very easy, it even came with the tools to set it up. I was very surprised on how much space it saves. Cup holders to hold your drinks work but I don’t think it’s secure enough to prevent it from falling,” one person wrote.
Dimensions: 62′ x 26.5 x 49.5
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Can be stored beneath furniture when not in use, including under bed
- Wheels for transport
Although you can’t run on this walking pad, you can certainly work up a sweat while you work. It doesn’t go very fast, but one of our editor’s swears that she’d trust it as her workout mate, because “Lifepro is a great brand.” The machine is bluetooth compatible, and also has a handy remote.
Dimensions: 47.6 L × 22.1 W × 4.73 H
Pros:
- No electricity needed — can train indoors and outdoors
- Connect wirelessly via Bluetooth or ANT+ for seamless tracking and integration with other fitness apps
- Per product description, you burn more calories than with a motorized treadmill
Cons:
- Some reviewers mention they feel they have to work harder on this machine than with traditional treadmills
Small 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 getting 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.
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, 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: 70 x 33 x 64
Pros:
- Very easy to fold up and store
- Oversized running deck for those with a larger gate
- Lays flat for easier storage
Cons:
- Some reviews noted a lack of shock absorption (not ideal for longer distances)
The Echelon Stride Treadmill has a metal safety bar underneath to protect objects from being pulled under, and offers a secure and solid stride. “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.”
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 machine that will accompany you into many a sweat session.
Dimensions: 57.3 x 23.6 x 8.9 inches
Pros:
- Three-zone cushioning offers variable response for flex
- Faster speed and incline changes, perfect for interval training
Cons:
- Incline range only up to 15%
Holly also tested the Horizon 7 to compare it with the 7.8. She was “not impressed.”
“The cushioning on the Horizon 7 wasn’t great. I’m not a large person and I could still feel the impact of my foot’s strike. I think for a heavier person, this would start to hurt the ankles and knees after awhile. The fan is also weak. Although I like that it’s wider than the T101, I’m not sure how comfortable someone with wider hips would feel.”
Hence, a reason Martins recommends the 7.8. He also likes its design features. “Quick dial controls,” he notes.”With a considerable room for running or walking with 22 by 60 surface.”
This award-winning treadmill has a ton to offer: QuickDial controls, advanced Bluetooth, a 9.3-inch color display, and the ability to connect with Peloton Digital or Zwift. Bells and whistles aside, it also has a 3-zone deck to cushion your impact and a 4.0 motor, which is more than ideal for the wear and tear a runner puts on a machine. Another bonus is that it folds!
Dimensions: 76.5 x 36 x 59
Pros:
- Membership to iFit is included — access to more than 1,000 workouts
- Hands-free automatic adjustments
- Decline by 3%
Cons:
- Heavy and not the easiest to move around a room
This is another Commerce Writer Miska favorite best treadmill.
“A dream to run on. Nordictrack is my favorite brand when it comes to treadmills, and this is easily my favorite model. 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.”
A 3.6 CHP Motor, 20 by 60-inch tread belt and 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.
Dimensions: 78.5 x 35.6 W x 65
Pros:
- Heart and pulse monitors
- Transportation wheels for easy storage
- Under $500
Cons:
- Some users complained that the belt was on the noisier side
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 a LCD screen to monitor the heart and pulse rate. It tracks distance, 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. It’s motor is only a 1.25, which is not something any of us would recommend for jogging. However, for burning a few extra cals in the privacy of your home? It gets the job done.
“It wasn’t loud at all and didn’t take up a tone of space, especially after I would fold it up when done using it for the day. The instructions were easy to follow and I was able to put it together by myself with no issues. Would definitely recommend,” one shopper shared.
Dimensions: 62 x 27 x 47 inches
Pros:
- Up to 15 years of warranty
- 7″ touchscreen with loads of streaming opportunities
- Thick platformed ComfortTech base
Cons:
- Some shoppers complained that this treadmill turns off when Wifi disconnects, interrupting their workout
Martins not only “loves their design,” but 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 more with the 7″ touchscreen and follow more than 50 global routes to guide you on your workout.
Dimensions: 85 x 36.5 x 55.5 inches
Pros:
- Description notes are easy set-up in just 30 minutes
- Energy-saver mode
- Five preset workout programs
Cons:
- Lower maximum speed of 10 MPH, and lower incline range of 10%
- Belt is on the narrow side
With an impressive quality, Horizon Fitness’ T101 Treadmill is one to steal. Impressively, its Johnson Drive System motor is ultra-quiet and recalibrates with each foot to avoid feeling lags or surges. Our Updates Editor tested it out and said it “wasn’t bad at all,” especially considering its an inexpensive treadmill compared to some other models on the market.
“I found it surprisingly smooth. The front knobs next to the pulse sensors can be used to change the speed and incline. The belt is on the smaller side but it’s still a very nice machine that feels strong enough for a run or an aggressive speed walk.
It may not be the best fit for those with very long legs but otherwise, I’d definitely consider it.”
The treadmill runs at lower RPMs, and the assembly is simple, thanks to the “comprehensive instructions,” according to a reviewer.
Dimensions: 70 x 34 x 55 inches
Pros:
- Large, 24-inch screen for easy viewing
- Enjoy 10+ disciplines across running, walking, hiking, boot camp, strength and more
- Apple Watch, Strava and Bluetooth compatibility
Cons:
- Must pay for an additional Peleton membership to access workouts
- More expensive than some competitors
Martins likes the “amazing screen and rubberized slat belt” on the Peloton Tread.
Get 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, and the 24-inch 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 they come.
Dimensions: 68 x 62 x 33
Pros:
- Take advantage of 16 different preprogrammed workouts
- Reasonably priced for the technological capacities
- Warranty is 10 years
Cons:
- Maximum speed 10 MPH, less than some competitors
According to Harvard Health, working out on an incline can not only help build endurance but boost the intensity of your sweat sesh. This Schwinn treadmill’s incline goes up a whopping 10%, plus a bunch of other features. The belt can run up to 10 miles per hour, which means you can sprint till your hearts content. Easily view your stats on the bluelit LCD screen, while enjoying the feel of the SoftTrack Cushioning System. This best compact 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.
“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 x 35.6 x 56.7
Pros:
- 3.0 horsepower
- 15% maximum incline
Cons:
- Programs are not as intuitive to figure out as some machines
If you’re thinking that you’ve seen this treadmill at your gym, you probably have! Is it an investment? Yes. However, it can take a serious pounding. We love the long handrails, as well as the wide belt. Capable of supporting more than 300 pounds, it’s a great treadmill, regardless if you need something to help you on your weight loss journey, you’re trying to increase endurance or simply want a sweaty way to kill time. Commerce Editor Miska Salemann has this to say about it.
“”I used this treadmill when I was just starting my running journey, and was really impressed with it. The belt is a good size, so you don’t feel too crunched up while running and it doesn’t force you to shorten your stride. I also love that it has sturdy, wide, easy-to-reach handlebars. I’d recommend it to anyone willing to splurge on a commercial-quality machine!”
Dimensions: 81 x 32 x 60
Pros:
- Great value for an option under $350
- Reviewers say assembly was very quick and hassle-free
Cons:
- No incline available
- Fewer features — no water bottle holder, maximum speed only goes up to 7.6 MPH
If you’re looking for a cheap treadmill that gets the job done, look no further than this sleek UREVO Folding Treadmill. Clad with a fit-for-small-spaces design, you’ll have access to all the settings you can muster while running away.
Its built-in tread deck offers an impressively roomy area to run with, and we also appreciate its 12 preset programs to offer variety to your strides.
Dimensions: 52.7 x 29.9 x 6.3 inches
Pros:
- Heart rate sensor enabled
- Self-cooling 1.6 CHP Motor
- Only 4.5″ thick for easy handling and storage
Cons:
- No incline
- Only goes up to 8 MPH
It’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. Also a best folding treadmill for small spaces, it’s worth clocking the miles on.
“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,” one shopper shared.
Dimensions: 29 x 70.25 x 44.5
Pros:
- Feature two motors that operate a separate incline and decline
- 5.6″ Touch screen display
- Enjoy 15 incline levels
- High top-speed of 12 MPH
- Wireless charging feature for your devices
Cons:
- More expensive than some others on the market, but many more features
If you’re looking to splurge on a treadmill for your at-home gym, Sole’s TT8 Treadmill is a premier option.
The model has an extra-wide running surface, two motors to operate the incline and decline and Bluetooth connectivity (with an included tablet), it’s superb, to say the least.
“I love Sole treadmills,” says our Updates Editor. “I had one for years. I power walked, jogged and sprinted without an issue. I did have to oil the belt after awhile but that’s standard. It’s a massive machine, which I didn’t love because my place back then was small. However, I definitely got a lot of use out of it.”
Many shoppers appreciate the level of workout this treadmill provides: “Incline, this machine has a killer incline! Wow! If you want a machine that will work your legs and butt this is it. I’m in pretty good shape but it’s insane! You’ll love it! It even tells you how many vertical feet you’ve climbed in your workout.”
Dimensions: 81 x 38 x 15 inches
Pros:
- Weight-bearing handrails
- Water bottle holder on the side
- Wheels for easy transport
- Four levels for resistance adjustment
Cons:
- Assembly is on the complicated side
Talk about speed control! This gym-quality treadmill let’s you run your way. Jog from the side, backward — it doesn’t matter with the self-powered piece of exercise equipment. Weight-bearing handrails work wonderfully, especially if you adjust the manual incline and need some support walking uphill. Place your water bottle in the side holder and watch your calorie burn on the LCD screen. There aren’t an abundance of reviews on Amazon but the ones that exist are stellar!
Shoppers love that this outlet does not require an outlet: “What immediately caught my attention was that it doesn’t require electricity or a motor, making it a more eco-friendly option than traditional ones. I put it in my basement where it doesn’t have an electric outlet and I can run on it whenever I want!”
Dimensions: 67 x 62 x 32 inches
Pros:
- Free 30-day iFit membership (interactive personal training)
- Built-in CoolAire™ workout fan is there to keep you on track
- Easily maneuver between -3% Decline to 12% Incline with QuickSpeed® Button Control
- Enjoy 10-year warranty
Cons:
- Heavier weight (262 pounds), more difficult for moving
Transform your at-home gym into a centralized fitness hub with the ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill. With an included 30-day iFit membership, it’s ideal to stream live and on-demand studio classes. Plus, to take a trip around the world with this treadmill — from African savannahs and frozen arctic peaks.
Additionally, the ProForm Pro 2000 has a comfortable tread belt and quick incline control, among other impressive features.
You may even receive compliments with this treadmill: ” It’s great! Happy camper so far. My boyfriend was very impressed. ‘This is nicer than the ones in the gym!’”
Dimensions: 77.3 x 35.3 x 59.6 inches
Pros:
- Running and walking modes for ultimate flexibility
- Fits easily in tights spaces
- GYMMAX APP features training courses, personal sports plans, exercise data record, real-time sports ranking
- Multiple colors options
Cons:
- Some reviewers suggested the speed gage may not be accurate
- On the heavier side
This treadmill is truly the multitasker’s dream. You can get your work done, while working out, and listening to great tunes all at the same time. Users love that this treadmill can be used with a console and handles while in ‘running mode,’ and folded down during ‘walking mode’ to save space.
“I am in love with this folding treadmill! The APP speaker and remote control make my workouts so much more enjoyable, and the folding design is perfect for my limited space. Highly recommended for convenience and efficiency!” one purchaser commented.
Dimesons: 52.5 x 29 x 44.5 inches
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.
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 in the best treadmill machine for you. Other fitness brands worth looking into include:
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:
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.
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.
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 waiting 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.”
“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 tine tone and define, two to three times a week.”
“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.
For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.
