Best Treadmills for Home Use 2024

When it comes to maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle, having a treadmill at home can be a game-changer. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, a treadmill provides a convenient and efficient way to get your daily dose of cardio without having to leave the comfort of your home. With so many options available on the market, finding the best treadmill for your home gym can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best treadmills for home use in 2024.

Best Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750, hailed as the best overall treadmill for home use, marries durability, advanced interactive programming, and a suite of high-end features to stand out as a top choice among fitness aficionados. Key highlights include its spacious running deck, robust 3.5 CHP motor, and versatile speed settings ranging from 0 to 12 MPH, coupled with incline and decline options to replicate diverse outdoor terrains. A notable advantage is its iFIT compatibility, offering users a 14-inch HD touchscreen for engaging in a wide array of workouts, alongside virtual coaching. This treadmill ensures a comfortable run with its cushioned deck and offers the convenience of folding for storage, despite its premium price point of around $2,500. It is backed by a substantial warranty, adding to its value proposition for serious runners and technology enthusiasts alike.

Simultaneously, the Commercial 1750‘s integration with iFit opens up access to over 16,000 live and on-demand classes, enriching the home gym experience with its technology-packed features, such as the 14-inch touchscreen that supports class streaming and fitness tracking. The treadmill’s capacity to incline up to 15% and decline to -3% introduces a more dynamic and varied workout routine. However, prospective buyers should consider their budget and available space, as its sizable footprint and investment level may not align with everyone’s constraints. Despite this, its seamless operation, additional comfort features, and the capacity to fold away post-use present a compelling package for those valuing interactive workouts and a broad spectrum of fitness classes. Yet, the reliance on an iFit subscription for full functionality and some assembly challenges are aspects to weigh against individual needs and preferences.

In essence, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 emerges as a stellar option for those seeking a blend of performance, durability, and cutting-edge features in their home fitness equipment, provided the investment and space requirements are within their reach.

Key Features:

• Spacious running deck
• Compatible with iFIT
• 14-inch HD touchscreen
• Incline and decline training
• Financing options available
• 3.5 CHP motor
• Wide speed range
• Foldable for easy storage

Buy at NordicTrack

Best Budget Treadmill: Sole F63

If you’re looking for a reliable treadmill that won’t break the bank, the Sole F63 is the best budget option for home use. Priced at around $1,000, the F63 offers impressive features and performance at an affordable price point. It features a folding design, making it ideal for small spaces, and it comes with a powerful 3.0 HP motor that can handle both walking and running. The treadmill also offers 15 different levels of incline, allowing you to vary the intensity of your workouts.

One of the standout features of the Sole F63 is its cushioned deck, which provides excellent shock absorption and reduces the impact on your joints. The treadmill also comes with built-in Bluetooth speakers, a USB port, and a cooling fan, allowing you to enjoy your favorite music or podcasts while you run. It even includes a heart rate chest strap for accurate heart rate monitoring.

With a weight capacity of 325 lbs, the Sole F63 is a sturdy and durable treadmill that can accommodate users of different sizes. It also comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, providing peace of mind and ensuring years of use. Overall, the Sole F63 is a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality or performance.

Key Features:

• Folding treadmill
• Costs around $1,000
• 3.0 HP motor
• Built-in Bluetooth speakers
• Cushioned deck
• 15 levels of incline
• Lifetime warranty on frame and motor

Buy at Amazon

Best Peloton Tread Alternative: Horizon 7.4 AT

If you’re a fan of the Peloton Tread but don’t want to splurge on the hefty price tag, the Horizon 7.4 AT is the best alternative for home use. Priced at $1,600, the 7.4 AT offers many of the same features as the Peloton Tread at a more affordable price. The treadmill features a foldable design, making it ideal for small spaces, and it comes with a generous weight capacity of 350 lbs.

One of the standout features of the Horizon 7.4 AT is its compatibility with various fitness apps, including Peloton, Zwift, Studio, and CardioCast. This allows you to access a wide range of workout programs and classes, providing a versatile and immersive running experience. The treadmill also features a 12 mph top speed and incline options up to 15%, allowing you to push yourself to new limits.

The Horizon 7.4 AT comes with a 22-inch W x 60-inch L running area, providing ample space for running and jogging. It also offers built-in workout programs, a lifetime frame and motor warranty, and a sturdy and stable construction. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the Peloton Tread, the Horizon 7.4 AT is a great alternative that offers excellent value for the price.

Key Features:

• Foldable design
• Deck cushioning
• Compatible with various fitness apps
• 12 mph top speed
• Incline up to 15%
• 350 lb weight capacity
• Lifetime frame and motor warranty

Buy at Horizon Fitness

Best Treadmill for Running with Programming: ProForm Pro 9000

If you’re looking for a treadmill with interactive programming to enhance your running experience, the ProForm Pro 9000 is the best option for home use. Priced at around $1,800, the Pro 9000 offers a large 22-inch HD touchscreen display, allowing you to access a wide range of workout programs and track your progress. The treadmill is also compatible with iFIT, providing access to a vast library of interactive workouts and virtual coaching.

One of the standout features of the ProForm Pro 9000 is its powerful motor and smooth operation. The treadmill is equipped with a 3.6 CHP Mach Z™ motor, allowing for high speeds and smooth transitions. It also offers handsfree incline and speed adjustments, making it easy to change your workout intensity on the fly. The Pro 9000 also features a cushioned deck for added comfort and reduced impact on your joints.

The ProForm Pro 9000 comes with a range of additional features, including a fan, water bottle holder, and Bluetooth speakers. It also offers a foldable design for easy storage and comes with a generous warranty, including a 10-year frame warranty, a 2-year parts warranty, and a 1-year labor warranty. Overall, the ProForm Pro 9000 is a top-notch treadmill that combines powerful performance with interactive programming.

Key Features:

• Compatible with iFIT
• Large 22-inch HD touchscreen
• Incline and decline training available
• Cushioned deck
• Fan and water bottle holder
• Bluetooth speakers
• 3.6 CHP Mach Z™ motor
• 10-Year frame warranty

Buy at ProForm

Best Manual Treadmill for Running: TrueForm Trainer

For those looking to improve their running form and enjoy the benefits of a manual treadmill, the TrueForm Trainer is the best option for home use. Priced at around $3,000, the TrueForm Trainer is a well-designed treadmill that helps runners refine their form and promote better running mechanics. The curved running surface of the TrueForm Trainer encourages midfoot striking, which is the proper way to run and can help prevent injuries.

One of the standout features of the TrueForm Trainer is its durable frame and hefty weight capacity of 400 lbs. This makes it a suitable option for runners of all sizes and allows for high-intensity interval training and sprints. The TrueForm Trainer also offers a 60 percent more affordable price compared to the TrueForm Runner, making it a more accessible option for home use.

While the TrueForm Trainer doesn’t come with advanced features like interactive programming or a touchscreen display, it excels in its simplicity and functionality. The manual treadmill provides a challenging and effective workout, allowing you to control the speed and intensity of your runs. It also offers a small LCD display for basic monitoring of your workout metrics. Overall, the TrueForm Trainer is a unique and effective treadmill for runners looking to improve their form.

Key Features:

• Curved running surface to promote better form
• Durable frame
• Hefty weight capacity of 400 lbs
• Excellent for HIIT and sprints
• 60 percent more affordable than the TrueForm Runner
• Small LCD display
• Lifetime frame warranty

Buy at True Form

Best Folding Treadmill for Running: Echelon Stride-s Auto-Fold Smart Treadmill

If you’re tight on space but still want a treadmill that is suitable for running, the Echelon Stride-s Auto-Fold Smart Treadmill is the best option for home use. Priced at $1,600, the Echelon Stride-s offers the convenience of a folding design, allowing you to easily store it in small spaces. The treadmill folds down to just 10 inches tall, making it a great option for apartments or homes with limited space.

One of the standout features of the Echelon Stride-s is its powerful 3.5 CHP motor, which provides smooth and consistent performance. The treadmill also offers a longer deck than the original Stride, measuring 59 inches in length, providing ample space for running. It features an HD touchscreen display, allowing you to access interactive programming and track your workout metrics.

The Echelon Stride-s is currently only available for pre-order, and it is expected to be released in the near future. It offers a range of features, including a 0 to 12 mph speed range, 0 to 10% incline, and a weight capacity of 300 lbs. The treadmill also comes with built-in speakers and ample space for a tablet or phone, allowing you to enjoy your favorite media while you run. Overall, the Echelon Stride-s is a great option for runners who prioritize space-saving features without compromising on performance.

Key Features:

• Folds compactly to 10 inches tall
• Longer deck than the original Stride
• 3.5 CHP motor
• HD touchscreen display
• 0 to 12 mph speed range
• 0 to 10% incline
• Weight capacity of 300 lbs

Buy at Amazon

Best Compact Treadmill for Running: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400

If you’re looking for a compact treadmill that can be easily folded and used in small spaces, the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 is the best option for home use. Priced at around $450, the SF-T4400 provides a great walking treadmill that can also be used for jogging and running. It features a foldable design and weighs just 103 pounds, making it easy to store and move.

One of the standout features of the SF-T4400 is its incline options, which allow you to vary the intensity of your workouts. The treadmill offers three levels of incline, providing a challenging workout for users of all fitness levels. It also comes with a shock absorption system, which reduces the impact on your joints and provides a more comfortable running experience.

The SF-T4400 features quick-speed buttons on the handrail, allowing you to easily adjust the speed of the treadmill while you run. It also comes with a compact size, measuring 62 inches in length, 25.5 inches in width, and 50 inches in height. While it may not have all the advanced features of higher-end treadmills, the SF-T4400 offers great value for the price and is a perfect option for those with limited space or a smaller budget.

Key Features:

• Has incline options
• Folds easily
• Very compact
• Tread comes with shock absorption
• Quick-speed buttons on the handrail
• 3 levels of incline
• Weight capacity of 220 lbs

View at Amazon

Top 5 Health Benefits of Using a Treadmill

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If you want to lose weight, burn calories, or improve your health, there is a lot of fitness equipment to use. The exercise world is full of options like exercise bikes and weight benches.

Treadmills are one of the favorite types of equipment for public and home gyms because of their health benefits.

Treadmills offer several health benefits.

1.) Heart Health

Treadmills can help you make sure your heart is in good condition. Doctors say regular aerobic exercise lowers blood pressure and improves blood circulation by strengthening the core.

Exercise also lowers bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) and raises good cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein).

While you should always talk to your doctor before exercise programs, particularly if you have a heart condition, treadmills will help most people keep their heart in good condition.

2.) Joint Health

Regularly activating your lower body muscles will help give them strength and flexibility.

Because of the design of some treadmills, running on one can be less stressful on your joints.

Consider using an elliptical machine if a treadmill is still too much on your joints.

3.) Mental Health

Have you ever heard the term “runner’s high?”

Exercise releases endorphins that can help you feel better mentally and emotionally. Some runners experience euphoria after they’ve been running for a while. You can share that on a treadmill in the comfort of your own home.

4.) Weight Loss

Many people want to use treadmills to help them lose weight. Running for 20 minutes at 10 km/hr will burn 229 calories. You are more likely to exercise because the treadmill will be nearby instead of at a gym.

Plus, you don’t have to worry about bad weather or your safety around roads on a treadmill.

5.) Bone Density

One of the best ways to strengthen bones is to exercise them over time. With a treadmill, you can start walking and build up to longer distances and faster speeds.

3 Types of Treadmills

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Not all treadmills are the same. You can learn the types of treadmills to find the best option for you.

1.) Non-Folding Treadmills

Non-folding treadmills are the traditional option. They are almost always in gyms.

They are the sturdiest of all treadmills because they have more robust frames.

Non-Folding Treadmills Pros

• Best Motors
• Better stability
• Higher weight capacity
• Sturdy frames

Non-Folding Treadmills Cons

• Most expensive
• Not easily transportable
• Take up more floor space

2.) Folding Treadmills

This type of treadmill offers the same functions as a non-folding treadmill. However, the frame allows for more accessible storage.

Folding Treadmills Pros

• Easy storage
• Easily transportable
• Less expensive
• Requires less floor space

Folding Treadmills Cons

• Lower weight capacity
• May wobble and shutter while running

3.) Desk Treadmills

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This treadmill type has a lofted desk positioned above the treadmill to allow people to walk while working.

Desk Treadmill Pros

• Increases your daily activity
• Increases concentration and alertness while working

Desk Treadmill Cons

• Not an option for everyone
• Takes up a lot of floor space
• Walking & working take some time to get used to

Manual vs. Motorized Treadmills

Treadmills come in two standard varieties: manual or motorized.

Each will provide a different workout. Much more effort is put into a manual treadmill, while motorized treadmills offer better features and programming.

Manual Treadmill

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Older manual treadmills were mainly the same. However, the newly designed curved-belt manual treadmills in Crossfit gyms help users expand up to 30% more energy.

Pros of a Manual Treadmill

• Burns more calories per mile
• Muscle-powered
• No electricity needed
• Stronger lower body workout

Cons of a Manual Treadmill

• Lack of features and pre-set programs
• Less sturdy
• Manual inclination has to be adjusted when you’re not on the treadmill
• Straining against the belt can cause more stress on your joints

Motorized Treadmill

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Pros of Motorized Treadmill

• No straining
• More workout features and options
• Speed and incline is adjustable
• Suitable for long training sessions

Cons of Motorized Treadmill

• Electricity is needed
• Motorized treadmills have a higher price point
• Not as safe as a manual treadmill

Treadmill Features 

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Treadmills are a significant investment. Before you buy one, consider the following factors:

• Your budget
• How much space you have
• How you will use it (for example, walking, running, jogging, interval training)

These factors can help you decide the best option for you. After you know these answers, you can decide which features you want.

Here are some top treadmill features to consider when buying a treadmill for home use.

Construction Quality

A treadmill must withstand high impact and be heavy-duty enough to stand your weight. The frame and motor also need to last.

Although folding treadmills tend to be less sturdy than non-folding ones, the quality and make of the frame are always a priority.

A treadmill shouldn’t shake when you run or walk on it.

If you want to be more confident in the quality, look for a motor warranty and a lifetime frame warranty.

Maximum Incline

Generally, the maximum incline found on most treadmills is 15%. On average, treadmills have anywhere between 10-15% incline.

We recommend a treadmill that can go 10% or higher for a minute.

Some treadmills also offer a decline of up to -3%. This decline helps simulate outdoor running better.

Noise

The noise level of a treadmill depends on the motor’s quality, sturdiness of the treadmill, size of the tread rollers, and lubrication of the rollers.

A quieter treadmill will often be of higher quality. Plus, you don’t want the noise of the equipment to get in the way of your home theater or sound system if you like to watch shows or listen to music while you work out.

Built-In Workouts

Although built-in programs are unnecessary, treadmills offering integrated programs and workouts provide a better overall experience.

The built-in programs provide workouts for beginner to advanced runners.

We recommend looking for treadmills that have a minimum of ten built-in programs. As you increase your fitness levels, these options will keep you motivated and challenged.

Look for various programs, from walking, jogging, running, and interval training. Some more advanced treadmills also offer cross-training to help you maximize your workout potential.

Running Surface

The running surface (tread belt) is one of the essential features to consider when researching treadmills.

The more space you have to run, the safer you’ll be:

• The minimum standard is 48″ belt size.
• The average on the market is 55-58 inches.

More severe runners should consider a treadmill with a running belt of 58-60 inches.

Thicker belts are quieter and more durable. Consider treadmills that are two-ply or four-ply.

Safety

A treadmill control panel should be within reach and simple to use.

We strongly recommend that each user follow the safety guidelines of the treadmills they purchase. We also recommend using the safety catch or key at all times.

Top Speed

On average, a treadmill should be able to reach ten mph.

More advanced runners will want a treadmill that can reach 12mph. Some commercial brands can go faster.

Expert Tips for Buying a Treadmill

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Because buying a treadmill is a significant investment, consider these buying tips.

Consider Your Budget

Your budget will help you choose the best treadmill for your price range.  Make sure that you get the highest quality treadmill within your budget.

A reasonable high-quality treadmill will likely cost between $1000-$1500

Look for Programming Extras and Smart Functions

Think about how you want to use the treadmill. Possibilities include:

• Interval training
• Jogging
• Running
• Walking

Knowing how you will exercise will help you find the right option.

Look for treadmills with built-in programs that meet your goals and workouts you enjoy doing. If you like using various apps or websites, consider a treadmill that allows you to link to apps.

Measure the Space

Treadmills look a lot smaller in a store than they are.

We recommend that you take measurements of the home space where you’ll store the treadmill.

Try It Before You Buy It

Treadmills are a significant investment. The last thing you want is to buy one you don’t enjoy. You don’t want a hundred to thousand-dollar investment.

When you shop, wear comfortable clothing and running shoes. Spend 10 minutes on each treadmill to get an idea of what the treadmill is like.

Pay Attention to Convenient Extras

Some treadmills come with convenient features like:

• Audio plugs or speakers
• MP3 compatibility
• Phone holders
• Tablet holders
• USB plugs
• Water bottle holders

Frequently Asked Questions

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Many people have questions when they go to buy a treadmill. Here are some of the most common things people want to know.

How Accurate Are the “Calories Burned” Numbers?

The calories burned displayed on the treadmill is an estimated number based on time on the machine. Everyone burns calories at a different rate.

Running at five mph (or higher) 0.63 x body weight in pounds equals net calories burned per mile.

Walking at three mph 0.53 x body weight in pounds equals net calories burned per mile.

Is Treadmill Running Easier on Your Body Than Running Outside?

Running on a treadmill is less stressful on your joints than running outside.

However, it doesn’t condition the shock-absorbing musculature of your lower body like running outside does.

What Shoes Should I Wear on the Treadmill?

We recommend that you wear running shoes. The shoes you would wear to run outdoors should be worn on a treadmill.

What Size of a Motor Do I Need?

It’s essential to look at the treadmill CHP motor.

CHP = Continuous Horse Power, meaning the motor has power that continuously goes through the machine instead of HP, which is the power measured at its peak.

Treadmills can vary between 2.25-4.5 CHP:

• Treadmills used for walking: 2.0 CHP or higher
• Treadmills used for jogging: 2.5 CHP or higher
• Treadmills for running: 3.0 CHP or higher

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Getting one of the best treadmills for your home gym can help you work out more consistently and benefit from those aerobic exercises.

Use this buying guide and our top picks to help you make a decision you’ll be happy with.