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A majority of people I’ve met love a good bargain. I mean c’mon, who doesn’t want to get a great product at an affordable price? Budget home gym equipment is no different—at least for me—so I set out to get my hands on, test, and review some of the best budget treadmills on the market.
RELATED: Black Friday Treadmill Deals
Best Budget Treadmills
Best Budget Treadmills Video Review
Compare Side by Side
Horizon 7.0 AT | ProForm Carbon TLX | Goplus 2-in-1 | Echelon Stride-6 | Horizon T101 | Sole F63 | Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 | UREVO 2 -in-1 Under Desk | WalkingPad P1 | |
Rating Our expert product testers, who include certified personal trainers and coaches, use a multi-point testing methodology to determine average ratings out of 5 stars. | |||||||||
Speed Range | 0.5 – 12 mph | 0 – 12 mph | 1 – 8 mph | 0 – 12.5 mph | 0.5 – 10 mph | 0.5 – 12 mph | 0.5 – 9 mph | 0.6 – 7.6 mph | 0.5 – 3.75 mph |
Incline Range | 0% – 15% | 0% – 12% | N/A | 12 levels | 0% – 10% | 15 levels | 3 manual levels | N/A | N/A |
Deck Size | 60″ L x 22″ W | 60″ L x 20″ W | 40″ L x 16″ W | 60″ L x 20.5″ W | 55″ L x 20″ W | 60″ L x 20″ W | 49″ L x 15.5″ W | 40″ L x 17″ W | 47.24″ L x 16.5″ W |
Foldable? | — | ||||||||
Programs | 8 preset programs | iFIT | N/A | Echelon Fit (must use your own device) | N/A | Sole+ app (must use your own device) | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Display | 7.25″ high contrast LCD screen | 7″ high contrast, multi-color | LED screen | Extra large device holder | 3 blue LED windows | 6.5″ backlit LCD | LCD screen | LED screen | N/A |
Warranty | Lifetime frame and motor, 3-year parts, 1-year labor | 10-year frame, 1-year parts and labor | 3-month comprehensive | 10-year frame, 5-year motor, 1-year comprehensive | Lifetime frame and motor, 1-year parts and labor | Lifetime frame and motor; 2-year parts, deck, and wear items; 1-year labor, 90-day cosmetic items | 3-year structural frame, 180-day other parts and components | 1-year comprehensive | 1-year comprehensive |
Best Budget Treadmill Overall: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
Good for: Individuals who want a sub-$1,000 treadmill with a deck ideal for running.
Best Overall
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Priced under $1,000
- Spacious 60-inch running deck
- Bluetooth connectivity
- QuickDial controls for both the speed and incline
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 60” running surface
- 3.0 CHP motor
- Bluetooth connectivity with apps like Zwift, Peloton, and Nike Running Club
- 325 lb weight limit
Cons
- Heavy machine at over 250 lbs
- No included touchscreen
- 3-year parts warranty and 1-year labor warranties are less than the Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
Bottom Line
For under $1,000, the Horizon 7.0 AT is a great option for people who want to use their treadmill to run.
As one of the best treadmills under $1,000, the 7.0 AT earned a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5 for our overall workout experience. The 60-inch deck and 3.0 CHP motor provide more than enough space and power to support prolonged cardio. Even at top speeds, there is no shake or wobble on this treadmill.
CPT and GGR Expert Tester Lindsay Scheele says this treadmill is designed for running speeds. “With a 60-inch-long deck, I feel comfortable recommending this treadmill to runners of any height,” she says.
Plus, for the programming fans out there, the 7.0 has Bluetooth connectivity to utilize popular apps like Peloton while on the machine. The speakers can play the audio, display calories burned, and show you your heart rate. Unfortunately, you’re in charge of changing the incline and speed yourself, as the connectivity isn’t able to extend this far. Still, this capability is impressive, especially for a budget option.
The differences between the 7.0 and its big sister, the Horizon 7.4 AT, are fairly minor; the LCD screen is 1.5 inches bigger on the more expensive option, and the parts and labor warranties for the 7.0 are slightly less. The 7.4 AT is also heavier than the 7.0 at 318 pounds and has a higher user weight capacity of 350 pounds.
I’m a big fan of the quick dial adjustment system, which is present on all three iterations of the Horizon Studio Series treadmills. This feature allows users to seamlessly adjust the speed and incline at 33% faster than other treadmills (according to the Horizon website). I particularly like this addition and can tell the difference in the speed of adjustments. It’s a HUGE pet peeve of mine when a treadmill takes away precious seconds during a sprint trying to adjust to the button you just pressed.
Be warned: this machine is heavy. You’ll definitely need some help to both move and assemble the 7.0. I would pick a spot you feel comfortable leaving the machine the majority of the time since it is difficult to move.
“While this is not a lightweight machine, if you’re going to keep it in one place in your home gym the weight is not a dealbreaker,” says Lindsay.
Read more on our Horizon 7.0 review.
If you plan on mostly walking on a treadmill, consider the Sunny Health and Fitness Treadmill (SF-T4400) with manual incline, which is about half the price.
Motor | 3 horsepower DC motor |
Speed | 0.5 –12 MPH |
Incline | 0-15% |
Weight Capacity | 325 lbs. |
Dimensions | 76.5″ L x 36″ W x 59″ H |
Features | Foldable, pre-programmed workouts, gas shock folding system |
Best Folding Budget Treadmill: ProForm Carbon TLX
Good for: People looking to spend around $1,000 for an all-around solid treadmill.
Best for Small Spaces
ProForm Carbon TLX
Product Highlights
- Affordable folding treadmill
- 3.0 CHP motor
- 60″ belt
- 0-12 mph speed range
- 12% incline
- 7-inch display
- iFIT-enabled
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Durable with a 3.0 CHP motor
- 300-lb weight capacity
- 60-inch belt length
- 12% incline
- Cushioned running deck
- iFIT-enabled
- Foldable
Cons
- Only a 1-year parts warranty
- No touchscreen display
Bottom Line
The ProForm Carbon TLX is an affordable folding treadmill that would be suitable for a small space. It's durable, with a 300-pound weight capacity and 3.0 CHP motor, plus it offers up to 12% incline. Also take advantage of iFIT for virtual classes on this machine.
Earning near-perfect marks from our testers for footprint and portability, we have to call the ProForm Carbon TLX the best treadmill for small spaces due to its folding capabilities and how easy it is to move around. Lindsay Scheele, Garage Gym Reviews lead reviewer and certified personal trainer, used the Carbon TLX herself for our ProForm Carbon TLX review.
“Even though it says that it weighs 249 pounds in the box I thought it moved just as well as a high quality more expensive treadmill,” says Lindsay, who rated the portability a 4 out of 5. “The only reason I didn’t rate it higher was there was no bar at the end of the deck to grab onto. You have these curved feet to grab onto which is fine, but not my favorite way to move around a heavier piece of equipment.”
While this treadmill’s footprint is similar to other larger machines, it’s great for small spaces because the SpaceSaver design helps it fold into a compact footprint.
The price tag is also pretty compact, as the Carbon TLX costs less than $1,000. That includes a free 30-day trial of iFIT, which is interactive programming that gives you access to literally thousands of workouts, and not just running workouts. There are also live and on-demand strength training classes, core workouts, yoga, and more that you can do with your iFIT membership.
There are a few things to consider before you buy the Carbon TLX. For one, the cushioning isn’t as good as other ProForm treadmills. “I think for a budget-friendly treadmill it was fine, but I didn’t feel like it provided a lot in terms of cushioning goes,” Lindsay says.
Secondly, it’s not as quiet as other treadmills. “Because the deck isn’t very cushioned, I do feel like you hear a little bit more noise when your feet hit the deck compared to a treadmill like the ProForm trainer 14.0,” Lindsay adds.
If you’re not dead-set on iFIT programming, we suggest checking out the Echelon Stride-6, which is priced a few hundred dollars lower.
Motor | 1.6 CHP Mach Z |
Speed | 0.5 –8 MPH |
Incline | None |
Weight Capacity | 250 lbs. |
Dimensions | 70.25” L x 29” W x 44.5” H |
Features | Foldable, iFIT programming, gas shock folding system |
Best Budget Treadmill Under $300: Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
Good for: People trying to hit their daily step count goal on a very affordable machine
Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
GoPlus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Fits seamlessly under most standing desks
- Quick assembly
- Folds extremely flat for storage
- Comes with remote to change speed with ease
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easily portable and stored
- Emits minimal noise
- Very easy assembly
- Bluetooth speaker on console
- Phone mount
- Remote control
- Safety key
- Ideal for use in small spaces and those who are casual joggers/walkers
- Transport wheels
Cons
- Not intended for sustained or fast running
- Smaller than typical running surface
- Does not fold once handrails are installed
- Handrails do not adjust and are at a fixed 3.5 feet (not ideal for taller individuals)
- Only two modes available
- Max speed is 8 miles per hour
- No incline/decline
- Can not mount a tablet
Bottom Line
The GoPlus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill is a great value purchase for any walker or casual jogger looking to save space while still getting in a solid cardio session. If you are looking for a treadmill to train for your next marathon on, this is not the one for you.
For those looking for a super budget-friendly treadmill for regular walking, the under-$300 Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill hits the mark. This machine is controlled using a remote rather than a display, so I’d suggest keeping it in a consistent spot so you won’t lose it. As I found out quickly in testing, this treadmill legitimately will not work without the remote, which is why I’m emphasizing staying on top of its location.
To be totally transparent, it’s hard to rate a treadmill like this against bigger commercial treadmills, because at this price point, you just aren’t going to get a lot of extras. However, it did earn a 4 out of 5 on workout experience and portability from our product testers.
Goplus is ideal underneath a standing desk or for slow walking. “I would only use this for walking,” says Lindsay. “The 40-inch deck is far too short for proper running form.”
The Goplus can fold very flat to be stored, but you’ll have to remove the handles to do so. This takes 10 minutes, so it’s not a huge deal, but it is something to be aware of when considering storage options.
The 265-pound weight capacity isn’t the worst, but ideally, I’d like to see it closer to 300 pounds in order to be more inclusive. With a 2.25 CHP motor, the Goplus has no issues supporting general walking. The max speed of 8 MPH seems like it could support a light jog, but that would be an impossible task for my 5’9” self due to the deck’s short length.
Take a look at our Goplus Treadmill review.
The Goplus treadmill does not support running speeds. If you’re looking for something affordable that allows you to run with a full stride, we like the Horizon T101 treadmill.
Motor | 2.25 horsepower ultra-quiet motor |
Speed | 1-8 MPH |
Incline | N/A |
Weight Capacity | 265 lbs. |
Dimensions | 49” L x 27” W x 42” H |
Features | Foldable, no assembly required |
Best Budget Treadmill with Incline: Echelon Stride-6
Good for: People who like an elevation challenge.
Echelon Fitness Stride
Echelon Stride-6
Product Highlights
- Auto-fold
- 12.5 incline levels
- No assembly required
- Cushioned running deck
- 300-lb user weight capacity
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Folds and unfolds with the push of a button
- No assembly
- Vertical and horizontal transport wheels
- Bluetooth compatible
Cons
- Screen not included
- 1-year warranty for most customers (Echelon Premier members get a 5-year warranty)
Bottom Line
The Echelon Stride 6 has all the features you'd expect in a heavy-duty treadmill, along with auto-fold technology and zero assembly.
For those of us who like pretending we’re climbing Mount Everest (please tell me I’m not the only one), the Echelon Stride 6 is a great choice. This budget-friendly cardio machine has 12.5 incline options that can be adjusted with the convenient controls below the display.
GGR’s head of content, Kate Meier, has had the original, now-discontinued Echelon Fitness Stride since the start of 2023—we haven’t tried the Stride 6 but both machines have similar specs (we’ll update this review when we test the newer model). Kate uses the Stride every week for her morning walks. “There are quick-change buttons on the handles so I can adjust speed and incline without having to reach,” she says.
The Stride’s LCD display isn’t the fanciest or largest, but it allows you to read all your metrics, access the preset workouts, and connect to Echelon’s fitness app where you can pick from thousands of live and on-demand treadmill workouts.
Where the Stride really knocks it out of the park is in its footprint—or lack thereof. It folds completely flat and can be stored horizontally or vertically, which is why it earns a perfect 5 out of 5 with us. Kate typically folds the machine and stores it vertically on her porch when she isn’t using it. “I don’t have a lot of room in my place, so I have also stashed it under my bed,” she says.
I’m a big fan of the lifetime warranty on the Stride’s frame and motor. With treadmills around this price point, you don’t often see machines with that kind of coverage. The Stride 6 has one big benefit over its predecessor: A 60-inch running deck that supports walking or jogging for people of all stride lengths.
With previous iterations, we used to not recommend this machine for people taller than 6 feet who want to use their treadmill for frequent running, but that’s no longer a concern. However, if you want a treadmill with highly responsive speed controls, go with the Horizon 7.0 AT.
Our Echelon Fitness Stride review has more details on this affordable treadmill.
Motor | 2.5 continuous horsepower |
Speed | 0.5 – 12.4 MPH |
Incline | 0-12.5 % |
Weight Capacity | 300 lbs. |
Dimensions | 64.8″ L x 32.4″ W x 57″ H |
Features | Impact-absorbing running deck, folds flat, pull-to-stop lanyard |
Best Budget Treadmill for Walking: Horizon Fitness T101
Good for: Someone looking for a simple machine to get their steps in
Best for Walking
Horizon Fitness T101
Product Highlights
- Foldable treadmill
- Best suited for walkers, joggers or cardio newbies
- Compact, sturdy and easy to use
- Console fan, Bluetooth speakers, device holder, and a rapid-charge USB port
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy assembly
- One touch keys to quickly shift speed and incline
- Integrated Bluetooth speakers
- Device holder
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Great for beginners
- Financing available
Cons
- 2.5 continuous horsepower motor will not support heavy running
- Smaller running surface is not ideal for tall runners
Bottom Line
The Horizon T101 Treadmill is a compact, durable and quiet no-frills folding treadmill ideal for walkers or joggers offered at an unbeatable price.
Price under $650, the Horizon T101 is ideal for people interested in getting in their steps. GGR lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele tested the T101. As someone who has personally put dozens of treadmills through our testing methodology, Lindsay remarks, “For someone looking for a quality treadmill for lots of walking and some jogging, I think this is a great option.”
RELATED: Benefits of Walking on a Treadmill
Why? For starters, it comes at an attractive price point and has a speed range of up to 10 MPH and incline up to 10%. That gives walkers a number of good options for workouts, having the ability to climb hills and pick up the pace whenever they want. There are also quick-change dials on the handles, where you can adjust your speed an incline by just rotating the knob.
This is a treadmill that folds into a vertical position, which may save you some space. It weighs 180 pounds, but thanks to front transport wheels, it’s still fairly portable. “Compared to a lot of other treadmills we see, this is fairly easy to move around,” Lindsay says.
There are 6 preset programs on the Horizon T101: Calorie, Distance, Fat Burn, Hill Climb, Intervals, Manual. The console is pretty basic, with just three LED windows that give you metrics like time, distance, and calories.
Lindsay also says this is a breeze when it comes to assembly. “Essentially you just need to screw on the uprights that hold the screen into place and then you are good to go,” Lindsay says. “Easiest treadmill assembly ever.”
In terms of value, Lindsay gives this a 4.5 out of 5. “Other treadmills that have similar features are within $100 dollars of this treadmill, however i think one of the things that gives the T101 a leg up is its deck cushioning system.” Horizon uses a three-part system that has different levels of cushioning based on your foot strike position—another bonus for walkers.
Read more in our Horizon T101 review.
If you have the budget to spend a bit more, we suggest the Horizon 7.0 AT because it has a bigger, more powerful motor and a longer running deck to fully stretch out your stride.
Motor | 2.5 HP |
Speed | 0.5-10 MPH |
Incline | 0-10% |
Weight Capacity | 300 lbs. |
Dimensions | 71″ L x 33″ W x 57″ H |
Features | Built-in workout programs, cushioned deck, foldable |
Best Budget Treadmill for Running: Sole F63
Good for: People looking to spend around $1,200 for an all-around solid treadmill.
Best for Running
Sole F63 Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Folding treadmill
- Costs around $1,200
- Bluetooth speakers, USB port, and cooling fans
- Powerful 3.0 HP motor
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Financing is available
- Bluetooth speakers
- USB port
- Device holder
- 15 different levels of incline
- Cushioned deck
- 20" W x 60" L belt
- 325-lb weight capacity
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
Cons
- Heavy machine
- No touchscreen
Bottom Line
The Sole F63 Treadmill is an affordable option for people who want a powerful, reliable machine that folds without breaking their budget.
The Sole F63 used to be our top pick for this page, but that’s when it was priced under $1,000. Now, at around $1,200, this budget cardio machine still has a lot of desirable features, especially for runners. The 3.0 CHP motor and generously sized 60-inch cushioned deck can support almost anything from walking to running. For context, CHP refers to “continuous horsepower,” which explains the motor’s power. It’s worth noting the F63 does shake slightly with sprinting, but it’s certainly not a deal-breaking amount.
RELATED: Best Treadmills for Running
The lifetime warranty on both the frame and motor is in line with what you’d expect from a high-end treadmill, which makes me feel confident about the durability of the F63. I like the 15 levels of available incline and the 12 speed options. These are also above-average features you don’t typically see on many budget treadmills.
That said, GGR Expert Tester and CPT Lindsay Scheele did experience shaking at top speeds. “Around 9 mph, I noticed right away there was feedback on the deck and through the uprights,” she says. Are we surprised a budget-conscious treadmill had some shakin? No, but it’s worth noting.
Another awesome feature of the F63? It’s foldable and comes with wheels to help the moving process go a little smoother. Plus, this machine also has an “easy-assist” unfolding feature. This machine does all the work once you release the gear system to smoothly set the deck on the ground.
Sole has recently released compatible interactive programming for their machines called Studio. For $19.99 per month, you get hundreds of on-demand classes to follow along with at your convenience. Plus, with the purchase of a Sole machine, you get a free 30-day trial of Studio.
PSA: You’ll need to recruit a friend or family member to help you unbox this machine. At 325 pounds, the F63 is really heavy, and too unwieldy to assemble on your own. The actual assembly isn’t overly complicated but I’d recommend most people pay for expert assembly.
Take a look at our full Sole F63 Treadmill review for more insight into this machine.
This treadmill isn’t the most cushioned machine we’ve tested. If you need a little more shock absorption, we suggest the Horizon 7.0 AT.
Motor | 3.0 HP |
Speed | 0.5-12 MPH |
Incline | 15 levels |
Weight Capacity | 325 lbs. |
Dimensions | 82” L x 35” W x 66” H |
Features | 10 workout programs, cushioned deck, foldable |
Best Quiet Budget Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness Treadmill (SF-T4400)
Good for: People who live in a shared space and want a quiet treadmill to use at home.
Sunny Health and Fitness Treadmill (SF-T4400)
Sunny Health and Fitness Treadmill SF-T4400
Product Highlights
- Under $500
- Has manual incline options
- Compact and folds
- Speeds up to 9 MPH
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Has incline
- Folds easily
- Very compact
- Tread comes with shock absorption
- Quick-speed buttons on the handrail
Cons
- User weight capacity is 220 lbs
- Top speed of 9 MPH
- No decline option
Bottom Line
The SF-T4400 is a great budget walking treadmill that can be easily folded and used in small spaces.
If you live in an apartment or even share a living space with family, you may be looking for a budget treadmill option that won’t sound like a stampede of elephants every time you unfold and use it.
The Sunny Health & Fitness (SF-T4400) impresses with a “soft-drop mechanism,” which gently unfolds the treadmill hydraulically without slamming the machine onto the ground; bonus points for avoiding smashed fingers and toes. There are also three manual incline options you can easily adjust before stepping on the treadmill.
While in use, the SF-T4400 is exceptionally quiet for an under-$400 machine, likely due to the shock-absorption cushioning used in the deck. I do wish the deck itself was longer to support lengthier strides, but 49 inches isn’t impossible to jog or run on.
“The shock absorbers did an excellent job at reducing impact. I was impressed considering the price,” says GGR Tester and CPT Anthony O’Reilly.
The LCD screen is on the more basic side, but there is a small device holder where you can use your own tablet or phone to watch shows or programming on. I didn’t feel totally confident in the stability of the holder itself, but it’s a nice extra to have if you can figure out how to keep it from dropping your device.
One of my least favorite things about the SF-T4400 is the 220-pound weight capacity. This is well below the industry average of 300 pounds, making this a less inclusive option for people of different statures.
Additionally, the 49-inch deck is not ideal for everyone. “I had to watch my stride while using this, but not enough that it was a nuisance,” says Anthony.
Check out our full Sunny Health & Fitness (SF-T4400) review for all of our thoughts on this machine.
If you think you won’t take advantage of the manual incline, opt for the super slim under-desk Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill which we like for the workday and generally getting more steps.
Motor | 2.2 HP |
Speed | 0.5 – 9 MPH |
Incline | 3 levels |
Weight Capacity | 220 lbs. |
Dimensions | 62” L x 25.5” W x 50” H |
Features | Incline, soft drop feature |
Best Budget Under-Desk Treadmill: UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill
Good for: Those who want to get some steps in during their all-hands meeting
Best Budget Under-Desk
UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Folds flat to fit under beds and couches
- Comes ready to go; no assembly required
- Easy to move
- Can also be used under a standing desk
- No incline
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Under $400
- Handle can be folded under to use under a desk
- Easy to store and good for people in tight spaces
Cons
- Short and skinny deck not ideal for running
- User weight capacity below industry standard at 265 lbs
- Max speed of 7.6 mph
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a foldable treadmill for under $500, the UREVO 2 in 1 is a great option for you.
For those who want to walk and talk at the same time, we recommend the UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill. It comes fully assembled, can be folded flat, and costs under $400. Plus, it offers the fastest speed of any under-desk treadmill we’ve tested, though that’s relative since it tops out at 7.6 MPH (similar modes only go up to around 5 MPH). We rated it a 4 out of 5 on value.
“If you know what you’re buying you’ll be pleased but this treadmill will not pretend to be something it isn’t,” says Caroline Lubinsky, a former collegiate and semi-professional soccer player.
We found that this machine could be stored under a bed, against the wall, or inside a closet. We love that the UREVO comes fully assembled, which can be a roadblock for people in small spaces. Assembling large pieces of fitness equipment can take up a surprising amount of space, but luckily that isn’t a concern with this machine.
Plus, if you live alone, you won’t have much trouble moving the machine yourself. At just 59 pounds, this treadmill is lightweight (and it comes with wheels on the front in order to tip the machine and move it).
RELATED: How to move a treadmill
As long as you just want to walk on it, you’ll really enjoy the UREVO treadmill for what it is. However, we wouldn’t recommend this machine for people who are serious runners, or for those who are tall. Caroline is 5’9” (with a long stride), and she had to take purposeful steps to avoid falling off while power walking. It’s also worth noting that there are no incline options, so the flatness of the deck you see is what you get.
Read our full thoughts on the UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk treadmill.
If you’re on the market for an under-desk treadmill but you’re looking for the best possible deal, we recommend the Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill, which we’ve seen priced $100 less during sales.
Motor | 2.5 HP |
Speed | 0.6-7.6 MPH |
Incline | N/A |
Weight Capacity | 265 lbs. |
Dimensions | 52.6” L x 26.4” W x 39.7” H |
Features | Foldable, no assembly required |
Best Compact Budget Treadmill: WalkingPad P1
Good for: Someone who needs a cardio machine that can easily be moved, folded, and stored while not in use
Best Compact
WalkingPad Folding Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Folds for easy storage
- Suitable for tall folks and long strides
- Comes assembled
- Compatible with KS Fit App
- Features foot-sensing controls
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Under $450
- Foldable
- Can be controlled by the app or a remote
- Has automatic foot control
- No assembly required
Cons
- Max user weight of 220 lbs
- No obvious warranty
Bottom Line
The WalkingPad is another great option for people who want a way to walk while doing another activity.
At just over 4.5 feet long, the WalkingPad is already a compact treadmill that’s great for those who just want to walk but it has another trick up its sleeve—it can fold sandwich-style to shrink to under 3 feet long, making it a perfect choice for those in studio apartments or other small spaces. We rated it a 4.5 out of 5 for footprint and portability, only docking a half-point because some people might struggle with moving it around (it weighs 62 pounds, though it does come with transport wheels).
This treadmill is also proof that great things come in small packages. “I have used it daily in the when the weather is inclement for the last 1.5 years and have definitely gotten my money’s worth,” says Nicole Davis, a certified personal trainer and GGR head of content.
That said, we rated the WalkingPad a 3.5 out of 5 on value because there are some limitations. For example, the weight capacity is only 220 pounds, whereas most treadmills can support users up to 300 pounds. “My husband tried it and he weighs about 200 pounds,” Nicole says. “It worked fine, although his comment was that he didn’t feel like it went as fast when he was on it versus me.”
Additionally, the max speed is 3.75 MPH so this should only be used as a walking treadmill. Even then, the speed doesn’t feel as fast as it does on other cardio machines. “I will say that the 3.0 on this machine doesn’t feel like a standard 3.0 on a gym treadmill,” Nicole says.
The speed can be controlled with a remote or with your feet. You simply move higher up the tread belt to make it faster, stay in the middle to maintain your speed, or go toward the back to slow it down.
Get our full thoughts in our WalkingPad review.
If you’re looking for a compact treadmill that’s a little quicker at the same price range, we recommend the UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill.
Motor | 1 HP |
Speed | 0.5-3.75 MPH |
Incline | N/A |
Weight Capacity | 220 lbs. |
Dimensions | Unfolded: 56.37″ L x 21.5″ W x 5″ H Folded: 32.5″ L x 21.5″ W x 5″ H |
Features | Foldable, no assembly required |
Other Budget Treadmills We Researched and Tested
XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill: The XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill foldable treadmill is a super budget-friendly option at under $500. This machine has a 50-inch deck, a 2.25 CHP motor, and a max speed of 10 miles per hour.
Schwinn Fitness 810 Treadmill: The Schwinn Fitness 810 treadmill has a 55-inch deck, which is plenty long for both walking and jogging. This cardio machine also offers a 10% incline, which is a nice bonus for a treadmill under $800.
NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill: At $649, this treadmill from NordicTrack is impressively inexpensive. However, if you check the actual NordicTrack site, they no longer offer it. This leads me to believe they are slowly fading out the less expensive treadmills, so get it while you can through the Amazon link above.
Costway Super Fit Treadmill: The Super Fit is a solid option for people who want to walk on a compact treadmill. With a short 40-inch deck, this machine likely wouldn’t be able to support a longer stride or prolonged running.
Horizon Fitness T202: For a budget treadmill you can actually run on, consider taking a look at the T202. The 60-inch deck, 12 MPH max, and the 12% incline all lend themselves to supporting anything from a HIIT session to a light jog. (Check out some HIIT treadmill workouts here.). GGR readers can also save $50 through 12/31/24 by using code GGYMR50 at checkout.
ProForm Carbon T7 Treadmill: The T7 is a solidly-built machine for under $1,000. Plus, this budget-friendly treadmill has a touchscreen (although it is small). (Full Proform Carbon T7 treadmill review here.)
How We Picked and Tested the Best Budget Treadmills
We researched some of the most popular treadmills under (or just above) $1,000 to decide what to get and test. Our team then ran each machine through the gamut: running, incline walking, jogging, and full-out sprinting. We score each machine out of 5 on a variety of factors:
- Warranty
- Motor strength
- Deck length
- Incline and speed options
- Bluetooth or programming capabilities
- Foldability and compactness
- Price point
- Customer reviews
- Customer service
- Overall workout experience
Benefits of Budget Treadmills
Why the heck should you buy a budget treadmill anyway? Well, I’m glad you asked! Here are four benefits of purchasing an affordable option.
Saving Money
It’s no secret that choosing a budget option for anything is saving you money in the short-term (duh). However, purchasing an affordable treadmill can also save you some cheddar over time. If you have a gym membership where you use a treadmill, purchasing your own can help you ditch the additional monthly spending.
Working Out From Home
There are a ton of benefits to working out in your own space after purchasing your own equipment (like a budget treadmill). Here are my top reasons to work out from home:
- No commute to the gym
- Can wear last night’s T-shirt with a marinara stain on it without fear of judgment
- Ability to blast your favorite music
- No wait to use equipment
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Regardless of the type of exercise you like to do on your treadmill, studies have shown that doing regular cardio can help reduce your risk of premature death due to heart disease1.
Purchasing (and using) a budget treadmill is a great way to help improve your cardiovascular health.
Compact and Foldable Options
Many of the budget treadmill options mentioned above either have a smaller footprint or can be folded for easy storage while not in use. This is beneficial for people who don’t have a lot of extra space in their home.
What to Look for When Buying a Budget Treadmill
Still can’t decide which option is best for you? Check out some of our top treadmills that made it into our treadmill buying guide to consider when looking for a budget treadmill.
Warranty
Fifteen years to a lifetime warranty is considered the industry standard when it comes to treadmill frames and motors. Parts and labor are usually under warranty for less than five years. However, when looking at budget treadmill options, you may have to sacrifice on the warranty in order to get within the price range you want.
Track
Determining whether you’re looking to run, walk, or jog on your treadmill is a crucial step to finding the right fit for you. If you’re over 6 feet tall or plan to run frequently, I’d recommend looking for a 55-inch deck or larger (preferably 60 inches for those with a particularly long stride). For those who just want to walk, the deck length of the treadmill is much less important.
Size
If you’re working with limited space, considering the footprint of your prospective treadmill is crucial. Make sure to measure your available room, check out if the machine folds, and take note of how much it weighs. These factors can help you make your final decision about a treadmill.
Bluetooth Compatibility and Programming
Many budget treadmills don’t have the glitzy 22-inch HD touchscreen display to view programming on, but they can still utilize Bluetooth to connect your personal device to the treadmill. If it’s important to you to monitor your stats accurately while using programming, make sure your budget treadmill has Bluetooth connectivity.
Motor
Motor strength is usually only a real concern if you plan to sprint or run on your treadmill. I recommend looking for a 2.5 CHP motor or greater for running enthusiasts. Generally, you can get away with a weaker motor if you mostly plan to walk or jog on your treadmill.
Usage
Are you a hardcore HIIT junkie or maybe more of a casual walker? Either way, determining how you plan to use your treadmill ahead of time will likely lead to a more fulfilling purchase. Some budget treadmills are better used for walking versus running, due to factors like deck size and motor horsepower. If you want to use your treadmill for running, I recommend a 2.5 CHP motor or greater, and a 50-inch+ deck (55 inches if you’re taller or have a long stride).
Incline
The inclination levels on most inexpensive treadmills range from 10-15%. The incline on a treadmill adds variety to your walking and running exercises while also engaging different muscle groups. This is a crucial feature since it helps to break up the monotony of jogging on a flat surface, keeping you engaged and challenged.
RELATED: History of Treadmills
Price Tag
Although every treadmill on this list is under $1,000, some may consider a “budget option” to cost slightly more, or even slightly less. Determining a set price point (that works for you specifically) or checking for financing options on a machine you love are great ways to stay within budget.
Best Budget Treadmill FAQs
What is the difference between cheap and expensive treadmills?
The difference between cheap and expensive treadmills is that the former will be less durable, likely offer fewer tech features, and won’t be as stable in use as something that costs more than $1,000. Cheap treadmills can be good if you’re just looking to walk indoors.
Is a treadmill good for losing weight?
Losing weight is mostly nutrition-based with a pinch of exercise, so running or walking on the treadmill alone likely won’t be enough to lose weight. Please consult with a registered dietitian or doctor before starting a diet or new exercise routine.
What are some treadmill features I should look for when choosing one?
Even budget treadmills can have nice extras to make the machine a better buy. Here are some things you might want to look out for:
-Tablet holder
-Bluetooth speakers
-Preset workout programs
-Water bottle holder
-Incline levels
-LCD display
-Heart rate monitor
-Deck cushioning
How much do you have to spend to get a good treadmill?
The answer to this is relative to how you’ll be using it, and what kind of features you want on it. If you’ll just be walking and don’t care about fancy tech, you can get a decent under desk treadmill for less than $500. If you’ll be running a lot and want dynamic programming or Bluetooth, you will probably spend $1,500 or more.
How long do budget treadmills last?
Budget treadmills can last anywhere from 1 to 20 years, depending on its durability (motor, materials, etc.) and how well it’s maintained over its lifetime.
References
- Nystoriak, M. A., & Bhatnagar, A. (2018). Cardiovascular Effects and Benefits of Exercise. Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine, 5, 135. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2018.00135
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