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The Best Treadmills For Home, According To Fitness Experts

The best treadmills blend practicality, aesthetics and safety to offer a home workout that you can actually look forward to. 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 gear experts researched dozens of machines that cater to specific needs, while considering different fitness goals, budgets and available spaces. If you’re aiming for a feature-rich home treadmill, our all-around favorite is the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.

But of course, the NordicTrack isn’t your only option. We identified six more of the best treadmills for home use 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. Each model we chose excels in durability, adjustability and overall quality, and you’ll also find detailed specs and a buying guide to facilitate an uncomplicated and well-informed decision-making process. For more specific treadmill recommendations, check out our best folding treadmills and best treadmills for walking stories, too.

Best Treadmill For Home Overall

A Highly Rated Option Complete With Everything You'd Need

MOST POPULAR

NordicTrack Commercial 1750

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 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. And since treadmills aren’t quite as entertaining to run on as the outside world, we 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 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

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Best Treadmill Under $1,000

An Entry-Level Model That Works For Most People

Horizon Fitness T101

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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Best Budget Treadmill

An Under $300 Treadmill With Thousands Of Positive Reviews

Sperax Treadmill

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 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

Best Treadmill For Walking

A Machine That Keeps You Comfortable During Long Workouts

Sole F80

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 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

Best Compact Treadmill

An Machine That Folds Down To 8 Inches Flat

Echelon Stride

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 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

Best Folding Treadmill

A Collapsible Option That's Capable And User-Friendly

NordicTrack Commercial 1250

Dimensions: 78.5 x 35.6 x 64.7 inches | Max user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0.0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -3 to 12%

While not claiming the top spot in NordicTrack's treadmill lineup, the Commercial 1250 masterfully attends to the essentials while sprinkling in a few extras, all while neatly folding away when not in use. Featuring a 10-inch HD touchscreen that effortlessly tilts and pivots, it grants unmatched access to interactive workouts and routines, whether you're pounding the platform or engaging in stretches off to the side. Equipped with ActivePulse and AutoAdjust technology, your workout's intensity adapts dynamically to your performance, ensuring a smooth and personalized exercise session.

Crafted with both comfort and performance in mind, the Commercial 1250 showcases a modest step-up height, a generous 20 x 60-inch tread belt and an AutoBreeze fan to fend off the heat during those rigorous workouts. Its robust 3.0 CHP motor and versatile 12% incline to -3% decline range with 31 levels of adjustability guarantee a challenging yet accommodating workout for individuals of all skill levels. With premium audio speakers, Bluetooth connectivity and a complimentary 30-Day iFIT trial, it seamlessly merges entertainment and technology, making it a standout option for enthusiasts in search of a versatile, space-saving machine.

What our experts say: “Its display is captivating, its subscription service is incredibly robust and the design contains a smattering of premium features without breaking the bank,” says Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta. “Whether you’re logging miles to stay in shape through winter or training for a fall marathon, the Commercial 1250 will meet your needs.” 

Pros:

  • Folds to nearly half its size
  • Tilting display encourages workouts beyond the platform
  • Wide speed and incline range suit a variety of workouts

Cons:

  • Heavy; not easy to move after set-up

Best Treadmill For Running

A Versatile Machine With Livestream Workouts

Peloton Tread

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 pick for the best 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 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

  • We’ve tested and reviewed countless pieces of home gym equipment—everything from the best ellipticals to exercise bikes—and published a large library of fitness guides that summarize our findings.
  • Gear editor Cam Vigliotta and senior strategy editor Katie Simpson both have a background rooted in fitness. Vigliotta also holds a degree in kinesiology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, while Simpson is a certified personal trainer (CPT). They used their insights to vet each of our recommendations, ensuring we compared each model across key features that matter most to users.
  • We consulted doctor of physical therapy (DPT) Chloe Costigan on the different types of treadmills and the benefits of each.
  • We stay up-to-date on product pricing, availability and customer reviews with the goal of providing the most accurate, timely information possible. This story was last updated in February 2024 to remove an out-of-stock recommendation and to expand on our shopping guide.


How We Chose The Best Treadmills

  • We performed extensive research to first identify treadmills from reputable brands that stand out from the competition for their features, speed range, incline range or overall performance.
  • We’ve tested a handful of the treadmills on this list, which come personally recommended by our editors.
  • Each treadmills needed outstanding customer reviews. Treadmills with less than a 4-star rating, including models with concerning reviews, did not make the cut.
  • Because we know every shopper has a different budget, intended purpose and storage space, we made sure to recommend a variety of options to suit different needs.


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.

Brand: Where Is The Best Place To Buy A Treadmill?

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, advanced features and impressive warranties. Other treadmill brands we stand by include Nautilus, Horizon Fitness, Bowflex and ProForm. Many of these companies also offer a trial period that lets you try the treadmill in your home to test out for yourself. Just make sure to read the fine print here as some stores might charge you to pick it up or to restock the item if you want to send it back.

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 treadmills is fairly accurate. However, as the treadmill is used overtime, the belt can stretch and cause slight inaccuracies, so it’s something to watch for as your treadmill experiences added wear and tear.

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 Is The Best Treadmill For Home Use?

We recommend the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 as the best treadmill overall for home use because it’s incredibly versatile, thanks to its diverse speed and incline range. The treadmill automatically adjusts as your workout intensity varies, and its large deck and 300-pound weight capacity fits most running strides and users.

Are High-End Treadmills Worth It?

If you’re planning on using your treadmill everyday, then splurging for a higher-end machine is worth it. Typically, treadmills in the $1,000 to $3,000 range have more features like Google Maps integration, on-demand fitness classes and built-in workout programs, and more durable frames that are made to last for a longer period of time.

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