If you think a treadmill is too big for your home, think again. A foldable treadmill could be a great solution for your space versus a traditional, non-folding option. Not only are these treadmills convenient and compact, but some of them still have the bells and whistles you’d expect from a bulky, non-folding option.
The team here at Garage Gym Reviews has personally used and tested more than 50 treadmills: foldable ones, non-motorized ones, ones made for walkers, ones made for runners—the list goes on and on. We’ve used the best treadmills out there…as well as some we wouldn’t recommend.
When testing and rating the best folding treadmills, we looked at factors according to our treadmill testing methodology, including:
- Footprint and portability: Folding treadmills help save space, typically earning at least a 4 out of 5 from our testers.
- Durability: We prefer treadmills that have high weight capacities of 275 pounds or more, and strong motors of 2.5 CHP or better; we rate the durability at 3 out of 5 or better if it meets these criteria.
- Programming: Treadmills with a few built-in programs score a 3 out of 5, but interactive programming, live classes, and other features will score higher.
- Warranty: We favor machines that come with solid warranties, scoring a 5 out of 5 for warranties of 15 years and higher on the frame and motor, multi-year warranties on parts, and at least 1 year on labor.
We also talked to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, and other specialists on the benefits of treadmills and cardio exercise. We helped over 7,300 people find their ideal treadmill last year, and we’re certain we can help you find the best foldable treadmill for your needs, too.
Best Folding Treadmills
- Best Folding Treadmill Overall – Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
- Best Folding Treadmill for Walking – Sole F63 Treadmill
- Best Folding Treadmill for Running – NordicTrack Commercial 1750
- Best Folding Treadmill for Seniors – ProForm Carbon TLX
- Best Smart Folding Treadmill – ProForm Carbon Pro 2000
- Best Budget Folding Treadmill – UREVO Strol 2E Smart Treadmill
- Best Folding Treadmill Under $500 – MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill
- Best Folding Treadmill for Beginners – GoPlus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
- Best Folding Treadmill for Small Spaces – Echelon Stride 6s-10
- Best Folding Treadmill for Tall Runners – Bowflex Treadmill 10
Current Top Deals
- Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill – Up to $100 off cardio products
- Sole F63 Treadmill – Save up to $200 on Sole cardio machines
- NordicTrack Commercial 1750 – Save $500 and get free shipping
- Bowflex Treadmill 10 – Up to $700 off select equipment
Editor’s Note
In November 2025, we reviewed all of our top picks to ensure we’re still providing you with the best of the best, adding the MERACH T12 to our lineup as the best folding treadmill under $500 for its high value and surprising durability while at a low price point.
Best Foldable Treadmills Video Review
Compare Side by Side
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| Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill | Sole F63 | NordicTrack Commercial 1750 | ProForm Carbon TLX | ProForm Carbon Pro 2000 | UREVO Strol 2E Smart Treadmill | MERACH T12 | Goplus 2-in-1 | Echelon Stride-6s | Bowflex Treadmill 10 | |
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Rating
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| Speed Range | 0.5 to 12 mph | 0.5 – 12 mph | 0 – 12 mph | 0 – 12 mph | 0.6 – 7.6 mph | 0.8 – 7.5 mph | 1 – 8 mph | Up to 12.5 mph | 0 – 12 mph | |
| Incline Range | 0% to 15% | 15 levels | -3% – 12% | 0% – 12% | 0-12% | N/A | 3 levels | N/A | 12 levels | -5% – 15% |
| Deck Size | 22” W x 60” L | 60″ L x 20″ W | 60″ L x 22″ W | 60″ L x 20″ W | 40″ L x 17″ W | 41.3″ L x 16.5″ W | 40″ L x 16″ W | 60″ L x 20.5″ W | ||
| Foldable? | — | — | — | — | ||||||
| Programs | Sole+ app (must use your own device) | iFIT | iFIT | N/A | Access to the MERACH app | N/A | Echelon Premier | JRNY | ||
| Display | 6.5″ backlit LCD | Pivoting 16″ touchscreen | 7″ high contrast, multi-color | LED screen | LED screen | LED screen | 10″ HD touchscreen | 10″ adjustable HD touchscreen | ||
| Warranty | Lifetime frame and motor, 5-year parts, 2-year labor | Lifetime frame and motor; 2-year parts, deck, and wear items; 1-year labor, 90-day cosmetic items | Lifetime motor, 10-year frame, 2-year parts and electronics, 1-year labor | 10-year frame, 1-year parts and labor | 1-year comprehensive | 3-year frame, 1-year parts | 3-month comprehensive | 10-year frame, 5-year motor, 1-year comprehensive | 15-year frame, 5-year mechanical parts, 2-year labor, 1-year electronics and touchscreen | |
Best Folding Treadmill Overall: Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
The Horizon 7.4 AT offers great value with a powerful motor, roomy deck, and reliable build that supports interval training. While it lacks a fancy display, its performance features help it stand out amongst its competitors.
Best Folding Treadmill for Walking: Sole F63 Treadmill
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
The Sole F63 Treadmill is an affordable option for people who want a powerful, reliable machine that folds without breaking their budget.
What our tester says:
“I feel like any new and beginner athlete that wants to get into a more cardiovascular based training would love this treadmill, especially if they had a little bit more money to spend on one.”
Best Folding Treadmill for Running: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
If you’re looking to add a workhorse of a treadmill to your home gym, we recommend the NordicTrack Commercial 1750. It’s one of the few treadmills that has decline training capabilities and is compatible with iFIT, one of the best training programs.
What our tester says:
“Overall this feels like a sturdy machine while remaining somewhat stylish – the update to the machine in terms of aesthetic is much appreciated.”
Best Folding Treadmill for Seniors: ProForm Carbon TLX
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
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.
What our tester says:
“Even though it says that it weighs 249 pounds in the box, I thought it moved just as easily as a high-quality, more expensive treadmill.”
Best Smart Folding Treadmill: ProForm Carbon Pro 2000
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
Take your training to the next level with an iFIT family membership on the Pro 9000 treadmill. Engage in a whole new workout experience as streamed live and on-demand personal trainers lead you in studio classes and take you all around the world, automatically controlling your treadmill’s speed, incline, and decline to give you a unique, hands-free workout.
What our tester says:
“This was very solid and very steady. I didn’t notice any type of shaking on the machine, even at higher speeds.”
Best Budget Folding Treadmill: UREVO Strol 2E Smart Treadmill
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
If you are looking for a foldable treadmill for under $500, the UREVO 2 in 1 is a great option for you.
What our tester says:
“Works for walking but it wasn’t comfortable for me to even take full strides at 5’9″.”
Best Folding Treadmill Under $500: MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
The Merach T12 Treadmill is an affordable and foldable treadmill that’s ideal for walking. It doesn’t offer much in terms of technology or conveniences, but it works well for getting some additional movement in during the day. It takes up less than 5 square feet of space when folded, making it suitable for small home gyms.
What our tester says:
“You’ll be making some sacrifices at this price point, but it’s still a decent option for anyone who needs a lightweight and portable treadmill.”
Best Folding Treadmill for Beginners: GoPlus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
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.
What our tester says:
“The 40-inch deck is far too short for proper running form. I’d stick to walking.”
Best Compact Treadmill for Small Spaces: Echelon Stride-6s-10
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
The Echelon Stride 6 has all the features you’d expect in a heavy-duty treadmill, along with auto-fold technology and zero assembly.
What our tester says:
“It is very easy to move around, and that handlebar is a nice touch.”
Best Folding Treadmill for Tall Runners: Bowflex Treadmill 10
Updated by: Caine Wilkes, OLY, CNC, USAW-L1
The Bowflex Treadmill 10 is a solid investment for serious runners—especially tall users—who want a large deck, incline options, and interactive programming. Just be ready to pay more and deal with a heavier build.
Other Folding Treadmills We Researched and Tested
We’ve tested more than 50 of the top treadmills out on the market, with a few we have yet to get our hands on. Not every one of the dozens we’ve researched and tested can make the list, but here are a couple other options for folding treadmills we think are worth mentioning:
- NordicTrack T Series 10 Treadmill: When we first tested this treadmill from NordicTrack, it was high-value among budget treadmills. Since then, the price has creeped outside of the budget range. You can read more in our NordicTrack T Series 10 Treadmill review.
- Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill: While not quite the best smart folding treadmill, the Horizon Fitness T101 does have Bluetooth connectivity to sync your device to the machine. At under $900, you get the best of both worlds—some smart capabilities without the hefty price tag. Our Horizon Fitness T101 treadmill review details all there is to like—and what we don’t—about this machine. It’s also easier to move with a felt weight of 16.1 pounds.
- Sole F80: This folding treadmill has a sizable deck for taller runners, but we prefer to recommend the F63 out of Sole treadmills, as it’s a less expensive option with similar specs. Check out our Sole F80 treadmill review for more information.

How We Picked and Tested the Best Folding Treadmills
Each foldable treadmill was put through a variety of different workouts—walking, running, jogging, sprinting, and intervals. We tried out all the features available on each including things like the Bluetooth speakers, USB ports, touch screens, fans, and quick select buttons. It was also important to us to see how easily each of these treadmills could be folded (since that’s a big reason one might purchase a foldable treadmill) and stored away.
RELATED: How to Fix a Treadmill
We use an in-depth equipment testing methodology for every product category we review. For treadmills, we have researched countless machines and personally tested more than 50. Our specific rating system scores machines on a scale of 1 to 5, looking at factors that include the following:
Footprint and Portability

Size does matter. If you own a home gym, then odds are you need to know how large a machine is and how easy it is to move. We favor machines that offer flexibility with their footprint; this means either it’s a compact machine, or, if it’s a large one, it folds. We also like to see the ability to move the treadmill with ease, typically scoring machines at 4 out of 5 or more if they come with handles and transport wheels.
Delivery and Setup
You can certainly assemble a treadmill yourself. We do it all the time. We look for machines that have straightforward directions and can be assembled with just one person. If it’s a more intricate process, then we look for the availability of affordable professional assembly. To earn a 3 out of 5, a treadmill should provide threshold delivery and assembly should take 90 minutes or less with two people.
Durability
In addition to looking at the frame and construction, our standards for high durability scores include:
- A strong motor of 2.5 CHP or higher
- A weight capacity of 275 pounds or more
- Little to no movement while in use
If a machine meets these basic requirements, it earns a 3 out of 5.
Customizations
Each treadmill may be scored a little differently on customizations, because some machines are made just for walking or under-desk use. However, for most treadmills, a 3-out-of-5 score goes to a model that hits these key factors:
- Speed ranges that go up to 10 MPH or higher (for running treadmills)
- Automatic incline settings that go up to 10%
- Bonus points for decline
Adjustability and Ergonomics
One way a treadmill gets a good score in this category is to offer deck cushioning that you can actually feel. We also like to see touchscreens that are adjustable, and running decks of 20 inches wide by 60 inches long to accommodate most people. A running deck this size earns a 4 out of 5 or higher.
Technology Capabilities
The machines that score perfect or near-perfect in this category offer the best of the best in technology, including:
- Large touchscreens
- Bluetooth capabilities
- Heart rate monitors
- Quick-adjust buttons

Dynamic Programming
We put these treadmills through all types of running and walking workouts. To score perfectly in this category, a treadmill offers a wide range of workouts for all fitness levels. A score of 3 out of 5 would be applied to a machine that offers at least eight built-in workout options that include hills, intervals, and HIIT.
RELATED: Best Treadmill Workouts
Customer Reviews
We scour the internet to find out what other users are saying about the machine. Often, we pull these ratings directly from the brand site, but we factor in reviews on sites like Amazon, Consumer Affairs, and Trust Pilot.
Value
Using our market knowledge, we assess whether or not the treadmill is priced fairly. Are you getting a good deal on a machine, or are you getting robbed? To score high, a treadmill must fall within market standards and be a quality machine with solid features.
Financing, Returns, and Warranty
We rate machines high when the brand:
- Offers some type of financing on high-ticket items
- Has an easy-to-use return policy that is reasonable for home gym owners
- Provides a warranty of at least 10 years on the frame, five years on the motor, and one to two years on parts
What Is a Folding Treadmill?
It’s exactly what it sounds like: a foldable treadmill. However, compared to ordinary treadmills, these running machines can have frames that are less sturdy (although this is not always the case). When you’re not using it, a foldable treadmill’s running deck lifts up and locks, taking up less room. It also includes wheels, making it easy to transport to and from storage.
Folding Treadmill Safety
Before folding or unfolding a new treadmill, it’s important to note whether or not the machine has a gas shock. A gas shock will allow the treadmill deck to slowly and gently lower to the ground once released. If your treadmill is foldable but does not have a gas shock, be aware of your surroundings. A machine like this will not unfold gently and will instead slam to the ground when released. Make sure to watch out for little hands, paws, and your own feet.
There are also some general things to consider about treadmill safety as well. Exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, explains, “Overtraining on a treadmill can stress the hips and lower back if you don’t vary your movement patterns. It also limits the engagement of your hamstrings, the muscles in the back of your leg and above your knee, so over time this can lead to imbalances and potential injury.”
Make sure to vary your cardio workouts to avoid overuse injury, and also focus while running. Chris mentions, “Even not paying attention can lead to injury. The belt moves for you, so if you’re not focused, it’s easy to misstep.”

Benefits of Folding Treadmills
You might be asking yourself, “Why the heck should I choose a folding treadmill over a regular one for my home?” This is a valid question, and one I can hopefully answer for you pretty quickly and easily.
Easy Storage
People enjoy treadmills because they can help avoid harsher weather conditions—extreme heat or cold, for example. “Treadmills give you a controlled environment, which means fewer factors to consider, like terrain and weather,” Chris adds. Still, treadmills can take up quite a bit of space, both during use and in-between uses.
One of the main reasons people prefer to purchase foldable treadmills over regular ones often has to do with being able to store the machine. If you need to be able to constantly store your treadmill away for whatever reason, it makes sense to purchase one that folds.
RELATED: Treadmill vs Outside Running
Space Saver
If you have a small space, getting a foldable option is helpful to alleviate some of the worry about where you’ll put it. Regular treadmills can be bulky and have to be left out all the time. If you purchase a folding treadmill, you’ll have less space concerns when the treadmill isn’t in use.
RELATED: Best Compact Exercise Equipment
Quality
Gone are the days of all folding treadmills being low-quality—today’s options that fold can be just as durable and long-lasting as their non-foldable counterparts. If you have the option to pay the same price for a treadmill that folds versus doesn’t fold, why wouldn’t you choose the one that provides an easy storage solution?
What to Look for in a Folding Treadmill
Picking out a compact treadmill can be daunting; with hundreds of options on the market, how are you supposed to know which ones are best? Garage Gym Reviews has you covered with the things you should think about before purchasing.

Dimensions
Because they’re easy to stow between exercises, folding treadmills are a popular choice for small rooms or compact spaces. However, when unfurled, a folding treadmill can be nearly the same size as a standard treadmill, so be sure to check the unfolded measurements of a compact treadmill before purchasing.
Running or Walking
Depending on what you plan to use your treadmill for, you’ll want to check on two factors: the horsepower the motor is capable of and the size of the deck. If you’re only planning to power walk and occasionally throw in a jog here and there, a motor with 2.0 or 2.5 continuous horsepower will do just fine. However, if you’re a serious runner, you’ll want to look for a folding treadmill with more than 2.5 horsepower. This will let you know the treadmill is powerful enough to support routine running.
RELATED: Benefits of Walking on a Treadmill
In terms of deck size, if you’re planning to frequently run or sprint, you’ll want a deck size that exceeds 55 inches long and 20 inches wide. This will ensure you’re able to take normal/natural strides when running. The last thing you want is to be mid-run and then fall off your compact treadmill because the deck wasn’t long or wide enough to support you.
Incline
Not all folding treadmills have incline capabilities, but generally the more expensive options do. You’ll have to decide if this is worth the extra cash for you, and how many incline levels you’d like. For those who particularly like to power walk uphill, you may decide this feature is a must. And, given the positive benefits2 walking at an incline can have, including increased muscle activity and range of motion, it’s something you should heavily consider.
“When you walk in short bursts, like adding a quick power-walk or incline, it temporarily raises your heart rate and makes your body work harder,” explains Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM. “This helps you burn more calories in less time than just walking at a steady pace. It’s not a magic fix, but it’s a helpful way to make your walks a bit more effective.”
Easy Collapse
Some of the heavier foldable treadmills can be a pain to actually fold, and may even require two people to do the job. If you don’t have another person available to help, you may want to make sure your new treadmill has an easy collapse feature.
Weight Capacity
Treadmills vary in their weight capacities. So, when you browse through treadmills, be sure it can support you along with any extra weight you might be wearing or using while exercising, like a weighted vest.
Warranty
The gold standard for warranties in the treadmill space is as follows: one year for labor, two years for parts, and 15 years to life for the frame. Obviously, not all compact treadmills will have the best of the best, but this is something to keep in mind.
Budget
When determining which foldable treadmill is best for you, it’s crucial to look at what your ideal price point is ahead of time. If you decide to spend under $1,500, you may not get things like a touchscreen display for programming or dual cooling fans. Having realistic expectations based on your budget is important to know in advance so you aren’t disappointed.
However, spending less than $500 on a treadmill is generally not worth it because the quality of the machine just won’t be there—unless it’s an under-desk treadmill. It makes more sense to save a bit longer to get a treadmill that will last.
Features
What does your ideal folding treadmill look like? Does it need to have a device holder, a built-in touchscreen, or two water bottle holders? Decide what the non-negotiable features are for you. Your ideal foldable treadmill may need to have horsepower higher than 3.0. It may also be important to you to check what the weight capacity is—anything less than 250 pounds is probably something to be concerned about.
Speed
Treadmills can vary in top speed from a few miles per hour all the way to 15 MPH. Generally speaking, most people will not need to go past 10 miles per hour. However, if you are someone who does a lot of sprinting or is particularly fast, make sure the treadmill you choose can accommodate the speeds you need.
Size
Even though foldable treadmills are made to be more compact than a traditional treadmill, they can still vary wildly in size. Determine how much floor space you have to spare for the treadmill both fully extended and folded. Don’t forget to account for things like the running belt moving or an HD touchscreen jutting out when calculating how much space you need.
Technology
Some people go nuts for high-quality, interactive programming (like that of the Peloton and Peloton alternatives) because it makes working out easier for them. Others prefer to make their own workouts and don’t really need to pay extra for something that can stream interactive programming to their treadmill if they’ll never use it. Another option is to purchase a monthly subscription to a fitness app and simply use the attached tablet holder to place your device and watch programming.
FAQs About the Best Folding Treadmills
What is the best foldable treadmill for home use?
People’s needs vary depending on their home gym size, fitness goals, and equipment needs, so there’s no clear ideal folding treadmill for everyone. That said, we recommend the Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill for most people, as it’s a durable treadmill with good customization and programming. Its folding feature also allows you to save space when it’s not in use.
Are folding treadmills worth it?
Yes, folding treadmills can be a great option for home gym owners. Generally speaking, foldable treadmills are easier to move and store, making them an ideal choice for those low on space.
What is the 12-3-30 workout on a treadmill?
The 12-3-30 workout is a simple walking workout that’s trending in the fitness community. Done on an incline treadmill, the numbers all refer to the settings on the treadmill. To perform the workout, simply walk at a 12% incline at a speed of 3 MPH for 30 minutes.
References
- Colino, E., Garcia-Unanue, J., Gallardo, L., Foster, C., Lucia, A., & Felipe, J. L. (2020). Mechanical Properties of Treadmill Surfaces and Their Effects on Endurance Running. International journal of sports physiology and performance, 15(5), 685–689. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2019-0539
- Seth Higgins, D. Clark Dickin, Dorice Hankemeier, Meredith D. Wells, He Wang, The effect of incline walking on lower extremity and trunk mechanics in older adults, Sports Medicine and Health Science, 2024.






























