Best Treadmill Reviews 2017

Updated: December 21, 2016

We researched, we ran, and we ranked the best treadmills of 2017 and 2016 for a quick, encompassing guide to help you find the perfect model to optimize your training and fit your budget.
This extensive guide takes an in depth look at some of today’s top treadmills to assist all buyers, from the most inexperienced runner to the elite athlete. Our findings are broken down by price and budget range with easy-to-understand reviews for each model.

CHEAP THRILLS – TREADMILLS UNDER $500
If you’re serious about your training, then most likely you are willing to invest both your time and money into your passion. Likewise, your equipment won’t be garage sale pickups.
Though the question remains – does cost really determine the value of a treadmill? The answer – well, no. Quite surprisingly, our research lead us to a variety of quality treadmills for under $500.

While sub $500 machines may be great for lite or beginning runners, joggers, and walkers, if you’re looking to amp up your training, be prepared to amp up your price range. Though the cost of these treadmills is low, so are their levels of convenience and amenities. You’ll notice that many of these models need to be manually adjusted and can only offer 2 or 3 incline levels to choose from. Also, the tread and speed capacities on these machines are much smaller than some of our higher priced models: so if you’re looking to extend your stride and increase your speed these limitations may pose a challenge.

So if your budget and space are limited and your training is lite, this group of machines may be just what you need. Rejoice in the options below.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400

Recommendation
The SF-T4400 is a cost effective model for the not-so-serious jogger or walker. Fair warning – with it’s small price tag ($299) comes a small weight limit of 220 lbs.
Still, should you be strapped for cash and needing a way to exercise indoors, this tidy little machine will do the trick.
Review
This being the least expensive model on our list represents the bare necessities of indoor training. With a max speed of 9mph and 3 incline levels, the SF-T4400 includes 9 built-in workouts to choose from and a large LCD display to track your progress.
Keep in mind, you must manually adjust this treadmill and cannot switch the incline level mid-workout.  So yes, you must sacrifice a bit of convenience for the lower price tag.
While this machine seems only right for smaller body types (it’s 2.20HP motor and 16” x 49” track are certainly nothing to write home about), the SF-T4400 is the most cost effective option whether you’re looking to ease into a healthier lifestyle routine or for a workout on an inclement day.

Weslo Cadence G 5.9

Recommendation
In our opinion, the Weslo Cadence G 5.9 is absolutely the best treadmill under $300. With a larger motor (2.25HP) and track than the SF-T4400, the Weslo Cadence can support a higher body weight and max speed capacity.
Review
Though it boosts a bit more power and capacity than the SF-T4400, please keep in mind that this machine costs under $300, and as with any sub-$500 machine, you should not expect a top-tier workout.  Still, it’ll do the trick.
The Weslo Cadence offers users a top speed of 10mph with 2 incline settings and can support a maximum weight of 375lbs. As with most treadmills, this model has 6 built-in workouts to choose from.
Designed to save space and about the same size as the SF-T4400 (the Weslo’s track is about an inch longer) the G 5.9 can be easily folded and stored.

ProForm 6.0 RT

Recommendation
While the ProForm 6.0 RT rests at the top of our sub-$500 price bracket, the machine favors the walkers and lite joggers of the running and walking communities.  However, it’s automatic incline features are a draw for those seeking a more convenient workout.
Review
Where most treadmills document their peak horsepower, uniquely, the ProForm 6.0 RT records a continuous horsepower (CHP) of 2.0, which is actually a more accurate rating to judge the performance of a machine. Though a 2.0 CHP isn’t all that awesome, for a sub-$500 machine, it’s more than enough to propel your workout.
For a less expensive model, the 5 year frame and motor warranty is a bit impressive. What’s more impressive is the types and amount of amenities included. The 6.0 RT offers a max speed of 10mph and max incline of 10%, 8 built-in workouts, a dual grip EKG heart monitor, and LCD screen with priority and racetrack display options.
Also designed to save space, this slightly larger model (18” x 50” tread belt) can be conveniently tucked away at the end of a workout.

Merit Fitness 725T Plus

Recommendation
Performing similar to the ProForm 6.0 RT, the Merit Fitness 725T Plus offers a few more amenities to enhance your treadmill experience. These little extras come with an increased price tag (about $100 more dollars than the ProForm), so before you buy, contemplate how valuable these additives are.
Review
With the luxury of an automatic incline feature and wider track (18”x45”) with AERO soft cushioning, the Merit sits a bit above the previous treadmills of this group.
The double window LED display tracks time, speed, distance, and calories expended during your workout. Like with most of the treadmills in this group, the Merit has a max speed of 10mph and and incline of 10%.
Be fairly warned, the weight capacity of this model rests at 250lbs. On the other hand, also consider Merit’s offer of lifetime frame and 2 year motor warranties.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7514

Recommendation
At first glance, the max speed of 4mph could make this model a no-brainer to skip over. We’ve included it here, despite its low speed capacity, for our walkers and those looking for a safer way to dip their toe into the jogging pool.
Review
Again, don’t let the max 4mph speed shy you away from the SF-T7514. The 20” x 46” shock absorbing tread is accommodating to even the most apprehensive user (because let’s face it, getting on a treadmill can be a bit uncomfortable, even frightening for beginning walkers and runners). Along with the wider track comes a heavier maximum weight of 350lbs.
Where the treadmill lacks in speed it makes up for in accommodations (except for the manual incline feature), especially for such an inexpensive model. The SF-T7514 includes convenient handlebar controls to adjust your speed, 12 pre-programmed workouts to choose from, and an LCD screen to view your progress.

 

MIDDLE OF THE ROAD –  TREADMILLS UNDER $1,000

This median price range seems to be a sweet spot for quality machines, catering to those who are on the fence about spending more than $500 and those who are looking to increase their indoor training with added amenities for a more serious workout.

Along with the added price ticket comes added size (both tread and frame wise), and while they aren’t monstrosities by any means, one of the following treadmills may be a bit harder to store than some of our previous sub- $500 models.

If you’ve started to shy away from walking based workouts or find yourself a mild runner, you’ll find this price range offers a bit more for the extra cost. Many of the models boost motors higher in horse power than those of our previous group, allowing for easier, faster speed and incline transitions. The warranties offered for these more powerful options are also something positive to consider if you are looking to invest a bit more into your training.

Still keeping in mind the general rule –  you get what you pay for, we’ve definitely found some worthy machines to consider.

Gold’s Gym Trainer 720

Recommendation
The Gold’s Gym brand is well recognized and regarded in the fitness community. Due to this, first time buyers may sway towards this model. Settling at just over $500, the 720 is an acceptable value for creating a varied training routine.

Review
Despite having brand recognition on it side, the Gold’s 720 isn’t the most ideal machine for amping up your training. While the 55” track is nice, there are other models in this price range that offer tracks up to 60”. The track however, is equipped with AirStride cushioning, which makes for a smoother ride.

Positively, the machine can accommodate up to 300 lbs and has a CoolAire built in to offer decent temperature control. There are also 18 workout apps pre-loaded into the multi-window LED display for you to choose from, which more than our previous models have offered. The dual grip PowerPulse heart rate monitor and QuickSelect controls make adjusting your run seem effortless. There’s also a compatible music port for your iPod (certain models). Though perhaps the best feature (considering the price) on the 720 is the lifetime frame and 25 year motor warranties.
ProForm Performance 400i

Recommendation
Similar in price and value to the Gold’s Gym 720, the ProForm Performance 400i has the edge with its stronger 2.5 HP motor. Also sharing the same track size, these models are good for moderate running, but not ideal for sprinting or for those with a longer stride.
Review
Very akin to the Gold’s 720, the ProForm 400i includes 18 pre-arranged workouts, a CoolAire fan and heart rate monitor. Again, we favor the presence of warranties – this includes a 25 year motor and a 1 year parts and labor warranty – and SpaceSaving designs – despite its size this machines folds quite neatly. The extra motor capacity  propels users to a top speed of 10mph and 10% incline quietly.
NordicTrack T 6.5S

Recommendation
Great for moderate running, the Nordic Track T 6.5S boosts a slightly more powerful motor with 2.6 CHP for seamless adjustments when increasing or decreasing speed and incline. With generally the same specs as the Gold’s Gym 720 and ProForm 400i, the Nordic T 6.5S has a slight advantage due to its advanced motor.

Review
The T 6.5S is a financially sound option for those looking to settle into a moderate running routine. This model includes 20 different workouts designed by certified personal trainers and allows you to connect your MP3 player to the console for added convenience.
As with the previous few models, the machine’s maximum speed rests at the standard 10 mph and 10% incline, with a 20” x 55” tread for a wide, comfortable ride. Easily track your heart rate with the CardioGrip sensor for accurate results.
While the T 6.5S isn’t anything totally different from the Gold’s Gym and ProForm models (it also offers the same warranty package), you may find that the added price tag for the added motor capacity is worth the purchase.

Horizon Fitness T101-04

Recommendation
Though the Nordic Track T 6.5S has a slightly bigger motor than the Horizon T101-04, the warranty on this model is a much better option for those looking to invest a bit more into their machine.
Review
Like the Nordic T101-04 is a get option for the moderate runner. With it’s 2.6 CHP motor this machine is perfect for those looking to start interval training.
This model also offers a few more pre-programmed workouts than we are used to seeing (30) and has a Sonic Surround speakers to optimize your experience.
The standard 300 lbs weight limit still applies, but unlike our other models in this group, the lifetime warranty on the frame and motor (and 1 year on the parts and labor) are definitely worth the extra dollars.

Nautilus T614

Recommendation
Though it’s still quite a ways away from an ultra serious treadmill, the moderate runner will rejoice in this price perfect model. Offering every necessary amenity, if you’re on a somewhat tight budget you will find the Nautilus to be of sound value and performance.

Review
While still measuring in with a moderately extended track (20” x 55”), the Nautilus boosts a unique top speed of 12mph and 12% maximum incline. This should come as no surprise, as its motor is more powerful than any of our previous models (2.75 CHP).
Though the warranty isn’t quite as long as some of the other less expensive models (10 year motor and frame, 2 year on parts), if you’re serious about your training now, you’ll probably be purchasing a new machine before your 10 year T614 anniversary.

LifeSpan TR1200i

Recommendation
Totally comparable to the Nautilus T614 in price and satisfaction, the LifeSpan TR1200i narrowly beats the T614 with its warranty and slightly larger tread.

Review
The TR1200i offers the largest tread we’ve seen so far at 20” x 56”. While a sensible option for the moderate runner, keep in mind that the top speed rests at 11 mph and max incline at a low 6%. As expected, the motor capacity is a bit lower at 2.5 CHP.
Offering about the same specs as the Nautilus, the tread deck is specially designed to be bio-mechanically correct in order to support a maximum of 300 lbs. What we liked the best about this machine was the lifetime frame and motor warranty (along with a 3 year parts and 1 year labor warranty) . So if you’re an aspiring moderate runner or serious walker, the slightly elevated price tag is fair trade in for the lifetime of use.

ProForm Performance 600i

Recommendation
Arguably the most price proficient model of our group, the 600i from ProForm well exceeded our performance expectations. Coming in at just over $800, this quality machine proves to be worth every penny.
Review
Boosting a 20” x 60” tread belt complete with ProShox cushioning and 2.75 CHP motor to easily shift you to the top speed and incline capacities of 12 mph and 12%, the 600i is certainly a special machine. Designed with space saving in mind, the 600i unfolds and refolds gracefully despite its weight.
The amenities on the 600i are standard – 20+ preloaded workouts, CoolAire fan, EKG heart rate monitor, and a variety of preloaded workouts, to name a few – and the warranty is nothing that isn’t offered on other models – lifetime frame and motor, 2 year parts, and 1 year labor.  For its price and performance standard, the 600i is certainly a sound buy.

Nautilus T616

Recommendation
Arguably one of the best deals out there today, the Nautilus T616 offers unmatched amenities and power capacity for its sub $1,000 price range.
If you’re looking to invest in your training for the long term and looking for the optimal model to start with, the T616 is the answer to your prayers.
Review
The 3.0 CHP motor swiftly propels users to a max speed of 12 mph and incline of 15%, which is unmatched by a number of comparable models. If you’re a runner transitioning from the moderate to the serious, this model is certainly your best option of our reviews so far.
Please note though, the price advertised is for Amazon Prime members only. So if you don’t have Prime and you are dead-set on buying this treadmill, get the 30-day risk- free Amazon trial before you order. One last “down-side”, if you will, is the 10 year warranty on the frame and motor and the 2 year warranty on the parts. For such a powerful and promising machine, we would like to see a lifetime warranty option, but again, if you’re looking to transition into a serious runner, perhaps 10 years or less with this machine is to be expected.

ProForm Power 995i

Recommendation
The last of our sub-$1,000 group, the ProForm 995i proves to be solid all-around machine with a strong warranty. Despite falling at the top of our sub-$1,000 price bracket, the added protection, in our opinion, is certainly worth the extra cost.
Review
With specs and features almost identical to the Nautilus T616, we give ProForm’s 995i the slight edge, considering the extended warranty (lifetime as opposed to 10 years) and elevated maximum weight capacity (350lbs).
The motors on both models are identical, in terms of horsepower (3.0 CHP), and the track sizes (20” x 60”) are equal as well. Though it doesn’t reach the 15% incline rate of the T616, the 995i can still be used for a serious incline walk and moderate hill simulation.

THE HIGH ROAD – TREADMILLS UNDER $2,000

Above the $1,000 cloud rests the semi-luxurious sub – $2,000 models that those of us on a tight budget can only dream about. For those who are seriously in the market (and those who want to do a bit of window shopping), we’ve analyzed some of the finest high-end treadmills available today.

In this price range you’ll find a variety of reliable motors, impressive warranties, and higher maximum speed and incline standards. The built in workouts included in these options allow for a highly customized, interactive experience. Many offer saved user profile options to set goals and track progress. Extra amenities wise, some of these models have built in speakers with compatible MP3 docs, refreshing fans, and touchscreen displays for a complete high-tech feel.

So for those who have crossed the threshold of moderate runner to serious to committed athlete, the following options are yours for the investment.

NordicTrack C 1650

Recommendation
With a lifetime frame and motor warranty and more features than the average runner would even know what to do with, the NordicTrack C 1650 is not only wise investment, but a reliable training machine.

Review
The C 1650’s 3.5 CHP motor offers users and quiet, smooth, consistent ride for the duration of their workout. While it’s true that less expensive models can reach a maximum incline of 15% and this model reaches a max of 12%, the added features of the machine certainly make up for its “incline shortcomings”.

The 1650 features a 10” web-enabled touchscreen to display your stats and to easily control your workout progress. The 20” x 60” tread belt is specially designed to reduce noise and vibration to a minimum and cushion each step.

Uniquely, the 1650 includes an MP3 dock and dual 2” speakers so you can leave your earbuds in your gym bag and add some musical motivation to your workout. Get even more incentive to push your limits with one of the 34 pre-arranged workouts designed by personal trainers, also included on the display dock.
ProForm Pro 2000

Recommendation
If you’re looking for a fuller incline that reaches 15% and a machine that can perform a -3% decline, but with the almost identical specs as the NordicTrack C1650, this ProForm 2000 is for you. Regarding the price, the lifetime warranty solidifies this machine as a worthy investment.

Review
While we found the Pro 2000 to be a comparable machine to the others in this grouping, we were quite impressed with the -3% decline feature, which is not included on many of today’s popular treadmill models. This is a most useful tool, as most runners will tell you, downhill running can be almost as tough as uphill running due to the added force involved.

This model is iFit Live Technology compatible and features the ever convenience music port and 32 workout apps to choose from on a 7” backlit display. Always impressed with a 3.5 CHP motor and lifetime warranty, the Pro 2000 proves to be a stable machine to enhance your training.

ProForm Power 1495

Recommendation
Likely to accommodate any kind of user, the Power 1495 differs from its sister, the Pro 2000, with its 10” touchscreen and 2 additional workout apps. So if you’re willing to forgo the extra 3” of screen and 2 more workout apps, then the Pro 2000 will be an equally viable option for you.
Review
Essentially the same machine as the Pro 2000, the Power 1495 features the same great -3% decline feature and warranty (weight capacity, motor specs and max speed, incline are the same). The only noticeable difference between this and the Pro 2000 is the bigger screen and if you’re extra app sensitive, the 2 additional workouts the Power 1495 features.

FreeMotion 890

Recommendation
Currently the best treadmill in our sub – $2,000 price bracket, the FreeMotion 890 offers a commercial-grade 4.25 CHP motor with high-definition features to help you enjoy and monitor your workout.
Review
If you’re shopping in this elevated price range, you’ll realize the 890 is easily one of the most affordable commercial-grade treadmills out there. Everything about this machine helps to create the most comfortable workout conditions. If you’re spending upwards of $2,000 the FreeMotion 890 is certainly well worth the investment.
The 890’s track measures wide and long at 22” x 60” and its 400 lb maximum weight capacity makes this the most accommodating model for those with larger body types. The technical specs are impressive – a 4.25 CHP motor, 15” HD television, and 10” touchscreen for you to choose from one of the 40 pre-programmed workout applications – and the lifetime warranty on the frame and motor is an added bonus.

LAPS OF LUXURY – TREADMILLS UNDER $4,000

If you’re seriously in the market for a training tool priced over $2,000, prepare for some awesome applications and features that just aren’t available to the lower price brackets. Though there’s not so much of a difference in terms of durability between these and the sub – $2,000 range, you will find that the amenities included in this upper echelon are a grade above the rest.

Here in treadmill Nirvana, the elite athlete and serious runner will find just about everything they need to attain their PR. Workouts included in these treadmills have a real-road feel and were created to replicate the speed and incline of actual marathon courses. These elite machines do everything possible to make you a better runner.

We reviewed three of these sought after models – Reebok Zig Tech 1910, ProForm Boston Marathon, and 3G Cardio Elite – and were certainly smitten with the results.

Reebok ZigTech 1910

Recommendation
We found the ZigTech 1910 to be just as solid as the slightly less expensive FreeMotion 890. With almost the exact same specs as the 890, we were most impressed with the 1910’s goal time feature.

Review
Though it comes in a few hundred dollars more than the FreeMotion 890, the only two differences worth noting are the different apps and features on the display and that the 20” width of the Reebok is a bit narrower than the 890’s 22”.

If you’re hopelessly devoted to the Reebok brand, this is totally a worthy machine, but if you are looking to save a few hundred dollars and don’t really care about the name on the side of the treadmill, then the FreeMotion 890 may be your better bet.

ProForm Boston Marathon
Recommendation
Indisputably, the ProForm Boston Marathon is the best treadmill on our list. It simply provides a training experience that none of our other models can and is make exclusively for the elite runner and serious trainer. With an awesome warranty and unmatched features, this model is a spectacular investment.

Review
It should come as no surprise that the most prestigious race in the country helped to create one of the most advanced training tools in the running world. This ProForm model does some incredible stuff – take the insane 20% incline max and -6% decline for one. Heartbreak Hill, here you come!
The Boston Marathon’s track is the longest of our models, with dimensions of 20” x 62”, and has a 4.25 CHP motor to propel runners to a top speed of 12 mph. The coolest accessory may be the HD video workouts that are specifically designed to train users for the Boston Marathon.
If you’re good enough to run Boston – this is a serious ally.

3G CardioElite Runner
Recommendation
Not quite as extreme as the ProForm Boston Marathon trainer, the 3G Cardio Elite is a most reliable, high performing treadmill. The Cardio Elite is a solid option if you are looking for a durable, commercial grade machine, with a warranty to match.

Review
With the largest track of any of our reviewed models (22” x 62”) complete with Ortho Flex Shock to make for a most comfortable ride, the Cardio Elite makes you feel the privilege of an upscale gym in the privacy of your home. Create your perfect training experience by plugging in your MP3 device and listening to your favorite tunes through the system’s built in speakers.
Its 4.0 HP motor is a workhorse backed by a lifetime warranty and will propel users to top speeds of 12 mph and incline of 15%. Also on its side is the unprecedented 10 year parts warranty, ensuring that this machine will last you for the long run (pun intended).