In light of the general shift toward a stay-at-home lifestyle, treadmills have become a popular commodity for people setting up their home gyms. Whether that’s the corner of your living room, or—if you’re lucky—a dedicated room, walking or jogging on a treadmill is an efficient way to stay fit while staying indoors. And with options across the board you can find a machine that works for you and your space—even if that means folding it up and stashing it away when your workout is done.
From affordable picks to high-tech models, below, you’ll find 10 of the best treadmills for home use that’ll save you a trip to the gym. We’ve also included some well-built and highly rated alternatives that didn’t make our top category spots but are still solid contenders.
- Best Treadmill Overall: Nautilus T616 Treadmill
- Best Value Treadmill: Horizon Fitness T101
- Best Folding Treadmill: ProForm Smart Pro 2000
- Best Smart Treadmill: Echelon Stride
- Best Compact Treadmill: Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
- Best Treadmill For Big And Tall Users: Bowflex Treadmill 22
- Best Splurge Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial X32i
- Best Treadmill With Guided Workouts: NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill
- Best Treadmill For Immersive Guided Runs: NordicTrack Commercial 2950
Best Treadmill Overall
A Highly Rated Option That Runners (And Walkers) Can’t Get Enough Of
- Pros: Powerful motor, solid build, shock-absorbing cushioning system
- Cons: No built-in monitor
Nautilus is a respected brand that has a wealth of experience making exercise gear. The T616 demonstrates that with a solidly built treadmill that should stand up to many years of use. It has a 3.5 CHP motor and a 20-by-60 inch running path with a StrikeZone cushioning system, which softens impact in front and helps propel your kickoff at the back. All together, it adds up to a quieter mechanism that redirects your body’s force to a more energetic workout. You can take it up to 12 mph and simulate hilly runs with an incline of up to 15%.
The treadmill doesn’t have the sort of large LCD display which appears to be all the rage these days, but the digital controls are large and easy to use—an important feature when you need to make adjustments in the middle of a run. It comes with a wireless heart rate chest strap as well. The system uses Bluetooth to sync with the Nautilus mobile app which includes an “Explore the World” feature—you can go on a virtual jog at dozens of locations around the globe, and the first-person video adapts to your running speed.
Bottom line: The Nautilus T616 hits all the right notes and is consequently very much in demand, which is why it often goes out of stock.
Dimensions: 78 L x 37.6 W x 62.8 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 350 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0 to 15%
Best Value Treadmill
An Entry Level Model That Works For Most People
- Pros: Affordable, built-in Bluetooth speakers, heart rate sensor
- Cons: No built-in screen, max speed of 10 mph
While you can certainly find less expensive treadmills, the Horizon Fitness T101 is the best intersection of price and features. It’s a somewhat small treadmill at just 20-by-55 inches, but it still offers the essential specs that most will probably want. It’s powered by a modest 2.25 CHP motor and offers speeds up to 10 mph and an incline up to 10%. Heart rate is measured through the hand grips, and a small cooling fan helps keep you from melting on hot workout days. There’s an easy-to-use command center console and Bluetooth connectivity that lets you play audio from your phone through built-in speakers. And the treadmill comes with about 30 pre-set workouts programs.
Despite offering all those basics, it still manages to fold up—similar to the way the ProForm SMART Pro 2000 folds up, though perhaps not as efficiently—so it can take up less space when not in use. Still, it’s hard to beat the price tag, especially now that it’s 35% off.
Dimensions: 70 L x 34 W x 55 H inches (Folded: 46 L x 34 W x 61 H inches) | Maximum user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 10 mph | Incline range: 0 to 10%
Best Folding Treadmill
A Heavy Duty Machine That Doesn’t Take Up Much Floor Space
- Pros: Wide running deck, shock-absorbing cushioning system, foldable
- Cons: Monitor is only compatible with the iFit app (additional $15 to $39 per month)
The ProForm Smart Pro 2000 is a deceptively large treadmill, heavy duty all around and equipped with a generously wide 22-inch running deck. But it doesn’t need to take up a lot of floor space 24/7 because when it’s not in use, the Pro 2000 folds up for a much smaller footprint.
It’s a great choice for dedicated runners thanks to the beefy 3.5 CHP motor, ProForm’s ProShox Cushioning system and the fact that it has both an incline (up to 15%) and a decline (3%). Not a lot of treadmills offer a decline, so your runs can simulate hills better than most.
The console includes an integrated 10-inch LCD display that works with ProForm’s subscription-based iFit service, which delivers streaming, on-demand guided workout sessions. The app can actively control the settings on your treadmill, adjusting speed and incline to match the workout. (Just be warned: The screen is only compatible with the iFit app or can be used in manual mode.) There’s also an included heart rate sensor, cooling fan and integrated Bluetooth speakers.
Dimensions: 77.3 L x 35.3 W x 59.6 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -3 to 12%
Best Smart Treadmill
An Intuitive Machine With Access To Live Or On-Demand Classes
- Pros: Folds and the push of a button, has wheels for easy movability
- Cons: Motor isn’t the most powerful, no built-in monitor
The Echelon Stride is a treadmill with a modern sensibility. It’s equipped with Bluetooth and can be used with your own tablet (there is no built-in screen), and it folds up automatically at the press of a button, after which you can wheel it out of the way into any corner of the room. With its 1.75 CHP motor, it’s not the most powerful treadmill you can find, but the machine manages a top speed of 12 mph and has a maximum incline of 10%.
While you can use the Stride manually, you’ll get the most out of it if you sign up for a membership to Echelon’s on-demand fitness program. You’ll get access to live classes as well as streaming on-demand sessions, and you can compete on the leaderboard with your own social circle of family and friends. While the monthly fee is $40 per month, the price drops to as little as $29 per month if you commit to a two-year plan.
Dimensions: 69.3 L x 31 W x 49.2 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0 to 10%
Best Compact Treadmill
A Folding Option That Can Slide Right Under Your Bed
- Pros: Small footprint, foldable
- Cons: Small deck, max speed 7 mph
Not everyone has a room dedicated to serving as a full home gym. If space is at a premium, the Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill does exactly what the name says. The handrail folds down so the entire treadmill folds flat and can be rolled under your bed or sofa.
It’s not especially large; the deck is 16 inches wide and 40 inches long, which makes it easy to store but a little cramped in daily use. And there’s no console on the top of the handrail; the compact and minimalist display, which you can operate with a remote control, is down at your feet. There is a stand for your phone, though, and a Bluetooth speaker.
GoPlus calls this a 2-in-1 treadmill because, with the handrail folded down, you can use it for walking or jogging up to about 2.5 mph. Raise the rails and you can run at a maximum of 7 mph, powered by the modest 2.25 CHP motor.
Dimensions: 49 L x 27 W x 42 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 265 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 7 mph | Incline range: N/A
Best Treadmill For Big And Tall Users
An Advanced Model With A Beefy Deck And Impressive Features
- Pros: High weight capacity, 22-inch touchscreen, compatible with different apps
- Cons: Large footprint
The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a smart choice for bigger folks looking to get into walking, jogging or running. The deck, which has Comfort Tech cushioning for softer impact, supports a maximum user weight of 400 pounds, which is also at the high end of what many consumer treadmills are equipped to handle.
And one of the best parts? It has an extra large, 22-inch HD touchscreen display that you can use to access hundreds of voice-coached workouts (with a JRNY membership) or stream movies and TV shows from your favorite apps. The machine inclines up to 20% and you can vary the speed up to 12 mph.
Dimensions: 85 L x 39.6 W x 70 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 400 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -5 to 20%
Best Splurge Treadmill
A Commercial-Grade Treadmill That’s Built To Last
- Pros: Powerful motor, 32-inch touchscreen, compatible with different apps
- Cons: Expensive
If you have the space and the budget, the NordicTrack Commercial X32i is an excellent splurge option. Although this commercial-grade treadmill is pricey, you’re paying for a machine that’s designed to stand up to daily pounding for years with users up to 300 pounds. And it has a 4.25 CHP motor—significantly more powerful than most.
It comes equipped with an upgraded 32-inch LED touchscreen and includes both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, so you can connect it to any of your favorite mobile apps. And with an iFit subscription, you can take advantage of live workouts as well as pre-recorded options from places like Austria and Africa.
Dimensions: 76.5 L x 40 W x 73 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0 to 40%
Best Treadmill With Guided Workouts
An Interactive Model That Brings The Personal Trainer To You
- Pros: 10-inch touchscreen, shock-absorbing cushioning
- Cons: Monitor is only compatible with the iFit app (additional $15 to $39 per month)
Even though Peloton might be the treadmill you think of when it comes to taking classes, the NordicTrack EXP 10i is the treadmill you probably want to use to follow an on-screen trainer. And for a fraction of the price, to boot.
The 10-inch screen that relies on NordicTrack’s excellent iFit app lets you choose from a library of 17,000 or so guided workouts set in beautiful locations across seven continents. You also have access to studio workouts, yoga, cross-training and more. Want to run anywhere on earth? NordicTrack lets you with help from Google Maps. And the workout sessions can take control of the treadmill to dial in the appropriate incline and speed without your manual input. Meanwhile, you can connect your mobile device to the Bluetooth speakers to play your favorite music.
The treadmill itself is built around a 3.5 CHP motor and the belt is padded with NordicTrack’s FlexSelect Cushioning that helps simulate a real running experience while lowering the impact on your joints. You get a range of -3% to 12% incline and 12 mph speed.
Dimensions: 79.9 L x 35.08 W x 59.25 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -3 to 12%
Best Treadmill For Immersive Guided Runs
A Treadmill That Makes You Feel Like You’re Running Outside
- Pros: Powerful motor, 22-inch touchscreen
- Cons: Monitor is only compatible with the iFit app (additional $15 to $39 per month)
Don’t let the name fool you: The NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill is commonly used in home gyms and is built for individuals and families. And because it’s a NordicTrack, it has familiar features, like the iFit app for workouts and a large 22-inch LCD display that comes closest to replicating the premium feel of the Peloton Tread.
It’s that display which is likely to make you fall in love—it’s hard to choose a guided run in the iFit app and not be mesmerized by the beautiful, real-world trails on the giant screen. Want something simpler? There are 40 on-board workout programs as well. Either way, the app can take control of the treadmill to change speed and incline to match the terrain, which helps you forget about the passage of time during your morning workout.
This treadmill isn’t just a beauty, either. Built around a 4.25 CHP motor, it has one of the strongest motors of any treadmill you are likely to consider for your home, particularly anywhere near this price point. It can get up to 12 mph, inclines 15% and declines down to 3%.
Dimensions: 79.5 L x 39.2 W x 66.6 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -3 to 15%
Best Treadmill For Walking
An Intuitive Machine With A Wide Belt
- Pros: Wide belt, arm rest controls, 15% max incline
- Cons: Does not have a built-in touchscreen
While you can use any treadmill for walking, the Sole F80 is a top pick. It has a wide 22-inch belt that’s double woven with a one-inch cushion flex, so your feet stay comfortable even during longer workouts. Quick adjustment controls on the arm rests make it easy to control the speed and incline while you’re walking. And with a 15% maximum incline, you’re guaranteed to feel the burn, even at lower speeds.
The 9-inch LCD display guides you through 10 pre-programmed workouts, or you can use the integrated tablet holder to catch up on Netflix or your favorite podcast while you walk. 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.
Dimensions: 80 L x 33 W x 58 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 375 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0 to 15%
Other Highly Rated Treadmills You Can Buy Right Now
The following treadmills may not have made our list of the best treadmills for home, but they’re highly rated options that are a close second. If some of our favorites are out of stock and you don’t want to wait, you’ll be happy with any of these machines.
A Powerful Treadmill That Can Connect To Live Classes
- Pros: Powerful motor, large running deck, quick-react hand dials
- Cons: Does not have built-in touchscreen
The Horizon Fitness 7.8 AT is built on good bones, like a powerful 4.0 CHP motor and a 500-pound thrust incline motor. It’s also fast and responsive, adjusting speed and incline via user-friendly quick dials on the hand rests that react 33% faster than most other treadmills, making it easier to stay in sync with online classes. It also has a generously large running deck, at 22-by-60 inches.
The treadmill has an integrated 9.3-inch color display for status and controls, and you can add your own tablet for connecting to the workout streaming app of your choice (including Peloton Digital, Zwift and others) without obscuring the view. It includes a Bluetooth chest strap that connects directly to Peloton.
Dimensions: 76 L x 37 W x 64 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 375 pounds | Speed range: 0.5 to 12 mph | Incline range: 0 to 15%
Another Sturdy Option Suitable For Big And Tall Users
- Pros: Large deck, 10-inch touchscreen
- Cons: Monitor is only compatible with the iFit app (additional $15 to $39 per month)
With its 300-pound capacity and 22-by-60-inch commercial treadmill belt, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is another excellent option for big and tall users. The Runners Flex deck cushioning helps absorb shock as you run, while the Smart-Response motor keeps the machine from overheating during all types of exercise.
The speeds goes up to 12 mph and the large flywheel provides a consistent operation, no matter what your speed. The NordicTrack Treadmill comes equipped with a decent amount of technology, too. It has a 10-inch screen and fully integrated Bluetooth capabilities, and this particular model comes with one year of iFit.
Dimensions: 78.8 L x 39.2 W x 63 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -3 to 15%
A Commercial-Grade Treadmill That’s Packed With Technology
- Pros: Powerful motor, 40% incline, 22-inch smart screen
- Cons: Monitor is only compatible with the iFit app (additional $15 to $39 per month)
As its name implies, NordicTrack’s Commercial X22i Treadmill is a commercial-grade treadmill—you can find this model in gyms and fitness centers, and it’s powered by a heavy-duty 4.0-CHP motor. Mechanically, it has a lot to offer: a rugged all-steel frame, incline control to 40% with a 6% decline, speeds up to 12 mph and integrated push bar and sled grips for more exercise options. The deck is also cushioned to reduce stress both on the treadmill and your body. The running deck is a generous 22-by-60 inches and it supports runners and walkers up to 300 pounds.
It’s also packed with technology, like a 22-inch smart HD screen that displays live workouts and coaching with an iFit subscription. The treadmill gives your virtual trainers live automatic control of your incline and speed. It also has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth with a pair of 3-inch speakers and Google Maps for workout displays.
Dimensions: 70 L x 39 W x 72.5 H inches | Maximum user capacity: 300 pounds | Speed range: 0 to 12 mph | Incline range: -6 to 40%
What To Look For When Shopping For A Treadmill
There are countless treadmills to choose from—how do you know which is best for your workout and your home? For starters, it’s a mechanical system that will need to absorb a lot of physical punishment on a daily basis, so it needs to be sturdy and rugged. But there are a lot of other factors as well.
Budget
It’s best to start by considering your budget; generally speaking, the more money you can invest in a treadmill, the more durable it will likely be. For example, any treadmill that costs less than $1,000 is probably not going to last for more than a couple of seasons; the motor and belt simply won’t be resilient enough. But starting around $1,500, many treadmills offer the same kind of reliability and features you’ll find in professional models at a gym.
Power
One critical specification to consider is the motor’s CHP—the continuous horsepower rating—which should be no less than 2.5 if you want to use it routinely for running. A treadmill that lists a lower CHP (or avoids referring to CHP entirely and only tells you its peak HP), is more likely to burn out prematurely.
Other Special Features
You’ll also want to consider factors like shock absorption, cushioning and overall noise level in addition to the actual running specs: How fast can it go, does it incline and can it decline as well? Also, make a note of the maximum weight rating—is it suitable for everyone in the house who might want to use it?
One of the hottest trends in home exercise gear these days is subscription-based workout classes, and many treadmills offer this feature as well. Some models come with large LCD displays that let you immerse yourself in online coaching sessions and workouts, but beware: That requires an ongoing monetary commitment each month.
Other special features are worth considering too. Larger displays are more immersive, but you might be able to save some money by getting a treadmill without a display and using your own tablet instead. Either way, some classes are live, while others only offer pre-recorded sessions. And the most immersive treadmills can be controlled remotely in real-time by the instructor. Otherwise, you’ll need to adjust speed and incline manually throughout the session in response to guidance from the instructor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Treadmills
How Long Do Treadmills Last?
A decent treadmill can last up to 10 years or so, depending on use; a marathon runner may wear theirs out more quickly, while a regular or occasional walker may be able to use theirs longer. Cheaper versions may need to be replaced after a few years but can be a great option for walkers or joggers with a limited budget or those looking for a smaller model. That said, if you plan on hardcore training, you’ll definitely want a durable machine with a strong motor.
Why Should You Not Buy A Treadmill?
Even the cheapest treadmills are a substantial investment, so if running or walking isn’t your preferred form of exercise, or using a treadmill tends to hurt your joints, you’ll probably end up wasting your money. The good news is, there are other exercise machines that offer excellent cardio workouts, like stationary bikes, ellipticals and rowing machines, which may fit your preferences better.
