I’ve been testing treadmills for almost a decade and while they might all seem to do the same job, I can tell you the difference between using a good or bad treadmill is huge. I’ve logged hundreds of miles of indoor running, mostly on good treadmills thankfully, but have also run enough on bad ones to help you steer clear of them.
While they are an expensive purchase, I’ve tested treadmills that cost from $399 right up to $12,000, and there are certainly affordable models that will suit many runners well. My top pick overall is the Peloton Tread, which not only offers excellent hardware but access to Peloton’s best-in-class guided classes. But if Peloton isn’t your style I’ve picked out plenty of other great treadmills available to suit different runners.
The quick list
The Peloton Tread is an excellent treadmill and comes with a large display to access on-demand and virtual classes. There are also easy-to-use speed adjustment knobs on each arm.
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Best value
This entry-level Echelon machine doesn’t have a display, so you’ll need a phone or tablet instead, but it runs up to 12.4mph and can be folded for easy storage between sessions.
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This gym-standard treadmill will cover the needs of runners of all levels, and while it’s a large machine the belt does fold up towards the console to save a little space between uses.
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If you don’t balk at its high price, the Technogym Run offers the best home treadmill experience thanks to its commercial-standard hardware and the excellent Technogym app, which you can use on the machine’s huge 27in screen.
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This budget treadmill has a top speed of 10mph and folds flat to make it easy to store. It works well for walkers and new runners and while it has its problems it’s undoubtedly exceptional value.
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The Technogym MyRun is a commercial-standard treadmill with a compact design that means it fits into smaller homes well. Despite being compact, the hardware is still top class, and the treadmill offers great connectivity to third-party apps.
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7. Bluefin Fitness Task 2.0
The Bluefin Fitness Task 2.0 treadmill is not suitable for running, but it’s a great way to do walking workouts while at your desk, and it’s an affordable and easy-to-store option if you don’t want a full treadmill for home training.
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Nick Harris-Fry
Nick Harris-Fry has been running regularly for the last 10 years. During that period Nick has run 13 marathons and tested and reviewed treadmills during his training blocks for all of them. Nick is 6ft tall and his marathon pace is about 10.8mph, to use treadmill speeds, but he has a fairly short stride length so can test treadmills with smaller running belts as well as more spacious ones.
The best treadmills you can buy today
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Best treadmill overall
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The Peloton Tread is easily the best treadmill for guided home workouts. The equipment is easy to use and nicer to look at than most treadmills, plus it comes with a large, 23.8-inch touchscreen display for your workout stats and Peloton’s engaging virtual classes.
Rather than display-mounted buttons to adjust the speed and incline, there are easy to use control knobs on each of the machine’s arms, so you can quickly change the intensity. Not that you always need to, as Peloton’s machines can adjust automatically during streamed workouts based on the trainer’s instructions.
The main downside is that to get the most from this premium machine, you also need to take out a Peloton All Access Membership, which will set you back $44 per month, although that does cover multiple users, so everyone at home can use it.
Peloton’s instructors will help you stay motivated for the whole session though, and having tried a lot of treadmills with partner apps that contain classes, I definitely consider Peloton’s the best.
However, all’s not wasted if you choose to stop your membership. You can continue to use the Peloton Tread if you cancel your subscription in the Just Run mode, and the hardware is impressive with a high top speed and powerful motor. I found the open front also made it feel more comfortable to run at faster speeds without worrying about clipping the console.
If this isn’t quite hitting the spot for you, we’ve also tested the Peloton Tread+ — the brand’s larger, much more expensive treadmill. The experience isn’t radically different, but you get a more immersive display, better speakers, increased incline, and a longer slatted running surface.
Best value treadmill
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The Echelon Stride sits between treadmill categories — it’s not cheap, nor high-end. In most categories, it’s just fine in terms of build, power and features. The Stride has fewer bells and whistles than more expensive treadmills; for instance, it doesn’t have an HD video screen, but you can use the tablet to display the Echelon app and its guided classes.
The max speed of 12 miles per hour will be easily fast enough to suit most runners and I didn’t have trouble with the belt being too short even when running at higher speeds. It’s also got a 10% incline, and a 3% decline. With a smaller footprint than the Peloton Tread, the Echelon Stride has another major selling point — it folds for easier storage.
If you’re looking for a cheaper Peloton alternative that’s also much more easily stored than the Peloton Tread, then the Stride plus the Echelon Fit app will fit the bill.
Best folding treadmill
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In early 2024, BowFlex filed for bankruptcy. However, the brand was acquired by Johnson Health Tech. As this treadmill relies on the company’s JRNY workout app, we confirmed with a representative that the BowFlex “product lineup is fully intact,” and the JRNY app won’t be discontinued in the immediate future.
The Bowflex Treadmill 10 is a commercial standard machine and as such will cater to runners of all levels. It’s the treadmill I’ve used most myself, using it to train for several marathons.
It has a long, wide running belt that gives you the space to sprint at high speeds even if you’re a taller runner, and the incline range goes from -5% to 15%, so you can practice your downhills as well as climbing.
Given the quality of the hardware, it’s not surprising that this is a large treadmill that’s heavy and hard to move about once built. The Bowflex Treadmill 10’s running belt does fold up on an angle though, which does reduce the space it takes up a little when not in use and makes it easier to wheel about.
The 10-inch screen isn’t very large — you can pay more for the Bowflex Treadmill 22 which has a 22-inch screen — but you can follow guided workouts on it easily enough, and you can also watch streaming services including Netflix and Disney+ on it through the JRNY app.
This does require a JRNY subscription, however, which is pricy. If you don’t subscribe the screen doesn’t show much beyond workout stats and one scenic running route in Australia, which I’ve got to know very well as I use the treadmill without a subscription.
Best commercial treadmill
It’s at least double the price of most treadmills on this list, but if that doesn’t deter you the Technogym Run is the best commercial-standard treadmill you can get for the home, with top-tier hardware and software. The machine itself is built to last many years of constant use, and has a very high top speed of 15.5mph and a 15% max incline, plus the ability to mimic weights of up to 121lb for sled push exercises, which are great for HIIT workouts.
I found that the slatted belt on the treadmill and its open front creates a realistic and enjoyable run feel, and the belt was easily large enough to accommodate me as a 6ft-tall runner regularly running at speeds over 10mph. The treadmill also runs quietly at higher speeds, and changes speed and incline smoothly and quickly.
You can use the Technogym app on the large 27in screen to follow instructor-led workouts, or watch streaming services like Netflix, or even link the screen to Zwift. It’s a far more open app than Peloton’s, giving you access to a variety of entertainment options for your workouts, and also contains skill and technique sessions to help you improve as a runner using the sled push mode on the Technogym Run.
While you have to pay $8.99 a month to unlock everything in the app, that’s less than most subscriptions, and there’s a lot of content available for free to the point where I don’t think you need to buy a subscription to get what we needed from the Technogym Run.
The downsides of the Techongym Run are obvious. As a commercial standard machine it is large — you need to consider the height of your ceilings as well as floor space, because it stands quite high off the floor — and it’s very expensive. Technogym and others make better value machines, but if money is no object the Technogym Run is an incredible bit of kit.
Best treadmill under $500
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A lot of the treadmills on this list might seem like overkill if you’re a newer runner, or looking for a machine to walk on, in which case the Deerrun A1 Pro might be what you need instead, and it’s incredibly cheap at $459, not to mention the fact I’ve regularly seen it in sales for under $300.
I tested the machine for several weeks and I was impressed given its low price. The belt runs smoothly even for extended periods at its top speed of 10mph, and the treadmill folds flat to make it easy to store either upright or underneath a couch.
There are downsides, which you’d expect at this price. The running belt is small and I felt cramped when running at the higher speeds available, and the incline has to be adjusted manually. The partner Pitpat app is also pretty terrible, and you have to use an Allen key to fold the machine up. I’m not sure I’d back the machine to hold up as well as pricier models to heavy use, either, as it did glitch on me once when doing a second hour-long run in two days.
All those problems are surmountable if you just need a treadmill for occasional use with short runs though, and as long as you regularly lubricate its belt the Deerrun A1 Pro is a great option for those whose budget runs to hundreds rather than thousands of dollars.
Best compact treadmill
The Technogym MyRun stands out from other compact treadmills by offering top-tier hardware, with a 3.0CHP motor that powers a pretty spacious running belt given the small overall size of the machine.
It’s not as long or wide as the biggest belts, but I had no problems running at the max speed of 12mph on the Technogym MyRun, so it should accommodate taller users well enough.
Although it doesn’t fold up, the treadmill doesn’t dominate a room and the typically-elegant Technogym design means it’s not an eyesore even if you don’t have a garage or spare room to use it in. The treadmill is 78 x 33 x 69 inches, and the open front makes it feel smaller than it is.
The MyRun doesn’t have a built-in screen but you can mount a tablet on the console to use the Technogym App during your workouts, and it’s well worth doing so because the app is laden with motivational features.
These include guided workouts (you get some for free, with a lot more classes available if you subscribe), scenic routes from around the world, and streaming services like Netflix which you can use within the Technogym app to get your stats on screen along with your favorite show.
You can also link the treadmill with Zwift to control your avatar as it runs through Zwift’s virtual worlds, and link the MyRun to Strava so it not only posts your workouts on there, but also allows you to recreate your outdoor runs on the treadmill with Google Earth showing the route live.
Best under-desk treadmill
Under-desk treadmills are quite different to standard treadmills, being primarily designed for walking and increasing your general activity throughout the day rather than running.
We have a full round-up showcasing the best under-desk treadmills and our standout pick overall is the Bluefin Fitness Task 2.0, which offers all the key features you need at a great price.
The top speed of 5mph is enough for walking workouts at your desk, and the treadmill runs quietly enough that you can get on with your work and calls without it disturbing you. It’s easy to set up and the handlebar folds flat so you can store the treadmill under a desk or sofa after you’ve finished using it.
Obviously it’s not the best option on this list for indoor running, with the low top speed, lack of incline settings and small running belt making the Bluefin tricky unsuitable for faster workouts.
If you’re looking for a way to move more during the working day, however, it’s a great options, especially when paired with one of the best standing desks.
How to choose the best treadmill for you
When deciding on the best treadmill for you, there are a few things to consider.
How often will the treadmill be used?
If you live in a house full of runners and the treadmill is going to be used constantly, then a commercial-standard machine might be worth looking at for its extra durability. For occasional workouts that are quite short, then a more basic and affordable machine will work.
How big a running belt do you need?
The more expensive the treadmill, the more room you get to run, is a general rule when buying one. If you’re a taller or faster runner with a long stride length you will need to invest in a machine with a longer belt to not feel cramped, while walkers and shorter runners might be fine with a smaller belt.
What is a good treadmill speed for you?
Most of the treadmills on this list have a top speed of around 12 miles per hour, which is around a five-minute mile running pace. This should be fast enough for most runners, but if you’re particularly speedy, you might want something quicker. Cheaper treadmills might top out at lower speeds of eight to 10mph, so it’s worth checking that if you need a faster top speed for intervals.
What is a good treadmill incline for you?
If you’re training for a hilly race, you’ll want a treadmill that’ll allow you to hike up those hills. Most treadmills with higher inclines demand a higher horsepower, so are likely to be more expensive.
How much space do you have?
There’s also the subject of space. If you’re a city dweller with a small apartment, a folding treadmill could save a lot of space. Folding treadmills are also considered to be the slightly safer option if you’re living in a house with small children or animals.
Does the treadmill have live classes?
There’s no doubt about it, running on a treadmill can get boring, fast. Another important feature is the content that the treadmill offers, like pre-programmed exercises or live and on-demand studio classes.
What is the warranty on the treadmill?
Unlike the treadmills in your local gym, you’ll want the one you’re buying for your home gym to last you a while, so take a look at the warranties on the treadmills. The NordicTrack Commercial 2950 has a lifetime warranty on the frame and parts, whereas the Peloton Tread only has three years.
The more features you want, the more expensive the treadmill. Everyone has a different price point, so you may have to trade off some bells and whistles if you’re on a budget.
How we test the best treadmills
I test the best treadmills by running on them! I’ve spent time on most of the machines in this roundup, clocking up the miles while working out indoors, while some picks are based on reviews from other members on the Tom’s Guide team.
I look at how comfortable and large the surface is to run on, where the handlebars are placed, and how smoothly the machine runs at its top incline and speed levels. Plus, if there’s not a built-in display, I consider how you can add your phone or a tablet for on-demand classes or passing the time with a streaming service.
For when you’re done with your session, I look at how easy the machine is to store. So, I try out any folding mechanisms, move the machines around if they have wheels, and store them in my home or garage to see how much space they take up.
Also tested
Some of the treadmills we test don’t quite make the grade to be included in the guide above, but might still be a great option for some runners. Here are other treadmills we’ve tried that you might want to consider.
FAQs
How much money should you spend on a home treadmill?
There’s no doubt about it – a treadmill is definitely an investment. If you’re looking to do serious mileage on your treadmill, it’s a good idea to spend a bit more and invest in one that’ll keep up with you. Spending $1500-plus will get you a gym-standard treadmill, with options that cost over $2000 offering extras like HD screens, higher top speeds and inclines, and larger running belts.
You can get a good treadmill for under $1000, especially if you’re mainly planning on using it for walks or short jogs. However, like with all tech, you get what you pay for and cheaper options won’t have the same build-quality or top speeds.
Which treadmill is the best for home use?
The best home treadmill for you will depend on several factors, such as the space you have available, the kind of runner you are, and how long your stride length is.
In general home treadmills can be cheaper and smaller than machines in a gym, since they don’t need to stand up to the demands of many different users each day, but if you’re a particularly tall or fast runner you might still need a large, commercial-standard machine for it to be suitable for your runs.
If you’re more of a beginner and don’t have a very long stride length, then a smaller folding machine is usually best, as it will be more affordable and take up less space. This is particularly true if you mainly plan to use the treadmill for walking, in which case an under-desk treadmill might even suit you better.
Are high end treadmills worth it?
There are a few benefits that you tend to get by going for a high end treadmill, which might make it worth the investment for you. Firstly, they tend to be more durable and have gym-standard designs that can withstand people running on them all day for many years.
High end treadmills also usually have longer, wider running belts which create a more relaxed and spacious feel on the run, especially if you’re a tall person, and they have higher top speeds and larger incline ranges. The motors in high end treadmills are also more powerful, so the belt is sure to run smoothly at high speeds.
Other upgrades you get with high end treadmills often include built-in screens and partner apps that contain guided workouts or access to streaming services like Netflix so you can watch during your runs.
Is a treadmill good for losing belly fat?
Running is a great workout, and if you’re looking to lose weight, it’s a good form of exercise to add to your routine. You can’t target weight loss to specific areas like your belly, but by exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet, you can ensure you are in a calorie deficit and you will lose fat from all over your body if you can maintain this over time. Read more about how to lose weight by running here.
Is walking on the treadmill for 30 minutes a day enough?
Walking for just 30-minutes a day on the treadmill can improve your physical and mental health, and will help you to hit the activity guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Health of 150-300 minutes of moderate activity a week. Here’s what 30-minutes of walking each day can do for your body.
What are the best treadmill workouts?
We’ve rounded up some of the best treadmill workouts for every type of runner here, including the best HIIT treadmill workouts, and treadmill workouts for beginners.
Of course, if you’re not a runner, or you’re looking for a lower-impact workout, treadmills can still be great. Walking at an incline of 2% or more has been found to burn more calories than walking on the flat, plus it engages different muscles in your legs. Looking for inspiration? We tried the viral TikTok 12-3-30 treadmill workout.
Many treadmills will now link to partner apps where you’ll find guided workouts led by motivational instructors. This is a key feature of Peloton and Echelon treadmills, and even if you opt for a cheaper machines without a partner app, it’s easy to find third-party apps with workouts, or guided sessions on YouTube to follow.
What kind of treadmills do gyms use?
Commercial gyms use a range of different treadmill brands, with a couple of the most popular being Technogym and NordicTrack. The brand is less important that the treadmill’s spec sheet when it comes to commercial use. Since there will be people using the machine throughout the day, every day, it needs to be very durable compared to a home treadmill that might only get used a few times a week.
An important feature of gym treadmills is a motor with a high continuous horsepower, which will ensure the belt runs smoothly for long periods at high speeds. Gym treadmills also usually have a high top speed and incline level, along with a large running belt, to accommodate a wide range of users.
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