These 6 Treadmills Are Worth a Spot in Your Home Gym

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IF YOU want to amp up your cardio routine, a treadmill is one classic way to go. Some refer to it as the 'dreadmill', but there's no denying it's one of the most straight-to-the-point machines you can use. Whether you're into long runs, sprint workouts, or cranking up the incline with a weighted vest, a reliable treadmill can help you torch those calories.

Perhaps you've set your sights on running goals this year, like completing your first half or full marathon. Or maybe you just prefer the convenience of working out at home, skipping the hassle of going outside or to the gym. In either case, the best treadmills are here to help you reach your fitness targets.

Read more: How Men's Health Thoroughly Tests and Reviews Fitness Products

If you're considering adding a treadmill to your home gym, you should know it's no small investment. Our team at Men's Health, in collaboration with fitness experts like Eric Sung, a strength and conditioning coach based in Queens, New York, and Percell Dugger, a Harlem-based certified strength coach, USATF coach, and Nike running coach, has put numerous top-rated treadmills to the test firsthand.

We've thoroughly assessed durability, design, noise levels, smart features, and overall value of more than two dozen treadmills over the years. The treadmills we've ranked on this list have been through it all, from walking to sprints, long-distance runs to marathon training, daily jogs, and tempo runs. We've logged nearly 80 miles on each one.

Rest assured, our picks have earned our seal of approval. Keep reading to discover the six best treadmills for 2023.

Treadmill 22

The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is an absolute powerhouse. I've personally run on this treadmill at home for more than five years, and I can confidently say it delivers outstanding workouts solo or when following on-demand classes with a trainer. It's remarkably easy to setup thanks to straightforward assembly instructions, taking less than an hour for myself and a family member to complete from start to finish.

Bigger guys: take note of the 400-pound user weight capacity, which surpasses the industry standard by 100 pounds. The frame itself is exceptionally sturdy, and I didn't detect any shaking even when running at push pace (it goes up to 12 MPH). I also find this tread especially great for interval training and hills when I want to switch things up, given its broad decline/incline range.

The downside of the durability and solid feel of this machine is that it's unsurprisingly quite heavy. Weighing in at 336 pounds, moving it requires at least two pairs of hands (and some gusto), even with the included transport wheels. For this reason, you'll need to designate a dedicated spot for this treadmill, as it's not as compact as some other models when folded. That designated spot will need to be quite spacious as well, as this tread is wider (and a tad longer) than most comparable home machines.

On the plus side, the extra-large 22-inch by 60-inch deck more than compensates for its substantial footprint. We can open up our stride on this machine and never feel crammed or cut short. Bowflex's commitment to quality is evident in their warranty offering a 15-year frame coverage (which is on par with the industry standard).

Read more: Exercise Machine Guide

EXP 10i Treadmill

The NordicTrack EXP 10i takes the lead in the tech-forward, reasonably-priced EXP series, which also includes the EXP7i. I had the privilege of testing this treadmill at NordicTrack’s headquarters in Logan, Utah, and it’s safe to say I'm a big fan.

This treadmill is quite compact and easy to move around thanks to an easy-fold feature and wheels. One feature I really appreciate is the shock-absorbing properties of the belt. It offered noticeable relief for our aching knees and ankles after completing a 12-mile run at marathon pace.

We found that both its base and belt strike a balance between not being too narrow or wide and provide stability and adequate runway even for bigger guys (up to 300 lb.). In my experience with this tread, it also delivers a quieter experience compared to many other models I've tested, which is sure to be appreciated by your housemates or downstairs neighbors.

Equipped with a 2.75 continuous Hp motor, this treadmill offers modest speeds of up to 10 MPH and an incline of up to 12%, meaning it's not the best choice for sprinters or speed training.

This model also features a 10-inch HD touchscreen display that provides on-demand instructor-led classes and programs to guide your runs at any time. The touchscreen display is flanked by quick key buttons for speed and incline, allowing you to easily adjust settings with a single touch and eliminating the need to repeatedly press buttons.

Read more:Best Folding Treadmills

Pro 2000 Smart Treadmill with 10” Touchscreen

If you're in the market for an affordable starter treadmill that doesn't compromise on speed, decline/incline, and display features, the ProForm Pro 2000 is an excellent choice, all under the $1,500 mark. In my experience with this treadmill, it perfectly suits my needs, offering a sturdy build, relatively quiet operation, up to 12 MPH for speed work, and steep incline to tackle hills.

I love that when changing incline, this machine is nearly silent, unlike some treads that creak and whine with each 1% adjustment. Positioned below the touchscreen is a generously-sized built-in fan, which is conveniently positioned and a total lifesaver when the training gets tough.

This baby packs a 3.5 CHP motor, which is heftier than the industry standard 3.0, making this treadmill suitable for casual and serious runners alike. The deck is also about 5" longer than most comparable machines, which is a crucial consideration and a huge plus for long-legged folks.

For those seeking interactive programming, the Pro 2000 doesn't disappoint, thanks to iFit compatibility. Although the treadmill's 10-inch touchscreen is on the smaller side, it still outpaces the screen size of an iPhone.

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TRX3500 Folding Treadmill

Need an affordable treadmill that can satisfy tight space constraints? The XTERRA TRX3500 is the best machine I've tested that fits the bill, all for under $1,000. During my testing, I was surprised at how quiet the belt and motor performed when maxing out at 12 MPH and 12% incline, though the machine did whine a bit as it adjusted to my desired incline. Despite its budget-friendly price, the steel frame feels solid, and the foldable design adds to its practicality for home use.

The 'Lift Assist and Safe Drop' mechanism exceeded my initial expectations, making it ridiculously effortless to fold and unfold the machine. It also has wheels. This is a machine that won't cause stress, a ton of logistical planning, and multiple hands if you ever need to relocate from one room to another. One person could manage it alone, no problem.

Unlike treadmills with interactive touchscreens, this model is a little less tech-savvy, with a 6.5-inch LCD display. While it does offer some built-in training programs and Bluetooth connectivity for third-party apps that we found intuitive to work, it lacks the smart features and finishes of higher-end models. But after all, at this price point, it isn't pretending to compete in that class of cardio machines.

Above all, this treadmill boasts a great value. In my experience testing budget to premium treadmills, a lower price tag often comes at the expense of build quality, weight capacity, and deck size. The TRX3500 defies this trend. Its 350-pound user weight capacity surpasses the industry standard, the 60-inch by 20-inch deck offers ample space suitable for taller individuals, and it provides enough power to meet most training needs.

Read more: Best Treadmill Desks

Stride Treadmill

The under $1,300 Echelon Stride is the ideal choice for someone who wants a treadmill for walking. It feels smooth, with speed and incline that are responsive and easy to adjust. It's much quieter than we expected it to be at this price point, perfect for home use.

My first impressions of this machine were that it has a much slimmer build than, say, a NordicTrack or Bowflex tread. On the bright side, that means a step up height that is lower and more accessible for most individuals. On the downside, a less powerful motor and less durability, making this machine more suitable for walking than running. The 1.75 CHP motor is downright weak compared to the industry standard of 3.0 CHP. Although this machine does max out at 12 MPH, we wouldn’t recommend it for people who plan to train running on their treadmill.

I found long walks (more than 2.5 miles) feel great on the well-cushioned deck, though it may run a little short for taller guys.

If you’re short on space, you’ll love that this treadmill folds completely in half to just 10 inches wide (another major plus of the small frame). Unlike some treads that fold into a still-bulky silhouette, this one can easily fit under beds and couches for storage. I found folding down the handlebar and console and rolling this machine onto its wheels simple and doable without an extra person, too.

Read more: Best Running Shoes

AssaultRunner Pro

The AssaultRunner Pro presents a more budget-friendly alternative (yes, $3,000 for a manual treadmill qualifies as affordable in comparison) to some of the pricier curved treadmills available today. You might already be acquainted with the AssaultRunner Elite, which is essentially the more premium version of this machine. However, we found that opting for the more cost-effective model from AssaultFitness didn't sacrifice much. We still enjoyed an exceptionally durable steel frame, backed by a 150,000-mile belt warranty, and Bluetooth connectivity.

When we say durable, we mean it. This manual machine can support users up to 350-pounds, and we never had to worry about its tech features. glitching or lagging—because there aren't any. Since this machine relies entirely on the user's power (not an external power source), I could maneuver it on its wheels from my garage to my driveway for a breath of fresh air whenever I felt like it.

It's worth noting, however, that relocating this treadmill up or down a flight of stairs without multiple pairs of hands can be a formidable challenge. It weighs in at 373 pounds and lacks any folding or compacting capabilities, meaning it requires a team to unbox and setup, as well as a permanent space ready to house this beast.

Read more: Best Curved Treadmills

Why You Can Trust Us

At Men's Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations. Our writers and editors thoughtfully select experts for collaboration on product recommendations, and are also experts in their own right. We've run on a lot of treadmills. Our team of writers and editors have spent the past few years writing, researching, and running on treadmills from top brands like NordicTrack, ProForm, Bowflex, Sole Fitness, AssaultFitness, Horizon and countless others, and use their informed opinions to select products and ensure that our recommendations are of the highest quality. We're up-to-date on industry standards (motor horsepower, warranty, incline/decline options, and speed) and the components that make up an excellent treadmill versus a ‘meh’ one.

Our product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products we are most impressed by. We never let retailers or public relations contacts dictate our content or product coverage. Which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations. So, if you’re going to trust anyone to help you make a buying decision here, it should be us.

How We Selected the Best Treadmills

For the past 24 months, we consulted with Men's Health's Fitness Director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., and Senior Fitness Editor Brett Williams, NASM, on the best treadmills for all types of use. Over the years, our dedicated team of Men's Health fitness editors have been rigorously testing treadmills from reliable, top-rated brands to evaluate them on their performance, user experience, size, durability, and overall value.

To ensure a comprehensive and thorough assessment of each product, the team has put each treadmill through the wringer with a variety of workouts, including sprints, long-distance runs, and tempo runs. Collectively, we've logged nearly 80 miles on each tread, allowing us to gain valuable insights into how it stacks up against other options on the market.

What to Know Before Buying a Treadmill

Buying a treadmill is a big investment—maybe not as much as buying a puppy or a new SUV, but there’s still substantial commitment involved. Here are a few things to consider before bringing home your first (or next) treadmill:

Dimensions: Most home gym equipment takes up significant floor space. That’s doubly true for treadmills. Check the dimensions of any treadmill you're currently shopping. Be sure to add at least 1-2 feet in every direction and three feet or more behind the treadmill (the area you step on to the machine from) for maximum safety.

One thing buyers also tend to overlook is the height. You’ll want at least 15” inches above your own height when standing on the treadmill. So, if you’re 5’10” (70 inches), make sure your ceiling height is enough to accommodate 85 inches, plus the height of the treadmill belt. This is especially important if you’re planning to use your treadmill for running.

Deck size: Looking for a treadmill suitable for running? Or maybe you just want a reliable machine to walk on while you watch T.V. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll want to ensure the deck size suits your activity preferences (and your height).

The industry standard for a walking treadmill deck is 55 inches by 20 inches and is at least 60 inches by 20 inches for running. You may be able to get away with running or walking on shorter decks, but this means altering your stride length, which means you’ll have to think about every step you take.

Stability: This might seem obvious, but double-check that all four corners of the treadmill are firmly in contact with the floor after setup. Many home floors aren’t 100% level (you'd be surprised). You want to make sure that your treadmill is well-planted to minimize the risk of slippage, shifting, or tilting.

Noise: Treadmills can—and often do—make a lot of noise, especially for your downstairs neighbors (if you live in an apartment) or housemates (if you live in a multistory house). If you think this might be an issue, consider a treadmill mat to help minimize the noise. As the name implies, they’re simple and usually affordable mats designed to deaden the sound and vibration underneath a running treadmill.

Transportation: Moving a treadmill into a confined space, like a small bedroom or basement, can be challenging. Often, it makes sense to hire experts to do it for you.

If you’re the handy type, you can opt to disassemble the treadmill. Start by moving, then reassembling the deck, then the uprights, then the console, in that order. Just be sure to allow the minimum recommended clearances we mentioned above.

Power required: Treadmills—especially large and commercial models—can draw significant power. If your home’s electrical setup allows, dedicate one circuit to just your treadmill. This will help ensure that other power-hungry devices potentially on that same circuit don’t blow a fuse.

Motor: Most brands are transparent about their motor’s horsepower but some (cough, Bowflex) don’t disclose on the treadmill’s spec sheet. For reference, you should look for at least a 3.0 CHP motor if you plan to run or sprint regularly.

Safety features: Treadmills might not look all that dangerous and, when used properly, they’re some of the safest pieces of gym equipment. Still, some danger exists. Understand the safety features of the treadmills you’re shopping. At a minimum, you’ll want fixed handrails and a stable surface that ensures your feet are properly planted and your stride is reliable. Many modern treadmills also feature an auto-shutdown clip that immediately cuts power to the machine in the case of a fall emergency.

Additional features: Many modern treadmills offer a solid list of bonus features. Consider things like incline and decline to add variety to your workouts. Some add extra shock absorption to minimize the impact on your knees, ankles, and joints. The best treadmills also offer touchscreen displays with web-connected features like interactive, trainer-led studio classes. Just know that, in most cases, these require an ongoing subscription that could add up over the years.

Budget: There’s no getting around the fact that treadmills aren’t cheap. Some of the best treadmills can run north of $5,000 while the most elite models, like Technogym’s Skillmill, cost as much as a used Toyota. But you don’t have to spend a small fortune to land a decent model. The best budget to mid-range models are priced between $1,500-$3,000. While that’s not chump change, it’s a worthwhile investment if you’re planning to integrate jogging or running into your regular fitness routine. One more piece of advice: While there are a few sub-$1,000 treadmills on our list that are decent, don’t expect them to last beyond five years or so.

And if you’re currently balking at those prices, don’t worry. Many companies (NordicTrack and ProForm come to mind first) offer financing on their treadmills to make them more accessible to the general public.

Warranty: The industry standard for a treadmill frame warranty is 15 years to life. This is the standard for mid- to high-dollar treadmills, but if you’re buying some random machine off of Amazon for $200, don’t expect this type of guarantee. We also recommend immediately registering your machine on the brand’s website after purchasing to make sure you’ll be able to cash in on the warranty if you ever need to do so.

What Is the Best Treadmill of 2023?

According to Percell Dugger, the best treadmill is "the one you are committed to using, and enjoy using the most."

The short answer: it depends.

Size, power, price, and the available space in your home are all considerations. The best treadmill for you is one that will fit snugly (but with enough safety room on all sides) and offer the features that line up with your fitness goals and routine—all at a price that you can actually afford. Some treadmill buyers are happy to make do with a manual (non-powered) model with an old-school screen and few features; others might not mind splurging on a Peloton with all the “fixin’s.” There is no one best treadmill, so it’s entirely your call.

Should I Buy a Folding or a Regular Treadmill?

The answer is all about space. If you have the real estate in your home for a regular, non-folding treadmill, the convenience of having it always “set up” and ready to go is usually worth the sacrifice you’ll make in floor space. If, however, you’re tight on overall space in your home or are planning to use your treadmill in a compact room, like a basement or garage, you may want to consider a folding treadmill that can be tucked away neatly when not in use.

Should I Buy a Curved Treadmill?

Maybe. It all depends on your personal fitness level and goals. Curved treadmills are non-motorized. They rely instead on you walking or running, and the belt being pushed backward manually with every foot strike on the sloped surface. While this might not seem as “fancy” or high-tech as a powered treadmill, this design has its benefits.

"Curved treadmills tend to recruit more muscles due to the shape of the belt and the act of propelling against it," says Sung, "It also eases the strain of your joints because of the curvature and is often better for users with varied joint pain."

By some reports, exercising on a curved treadmill burns 30% more calories over a traditional powered treadmill.

"One drawback of a curved treadmill is that it is difficult to achieve higher speeds (sprints) with proper technique. This can impact front side mechanics with one's stride through by 'reaching'," explains Sung. Another thing to consider: because curved treads are motorless, they also don't allow for incline or decline capabilities.

What’s the Best Treadmill Brand?

There’s hardly been a better time to shop for treadmills as there are at least a handful of premium, commercial-grade treadmill brands to choose from. NordicTrack, ProForm, and Bowflex are just a few of the best treadmill brands. The treadmills from any of these are high-quality, extremely durable, and offer more next-gen features than their competitors. On the downside, they’re also usually the most expensive. However, many offer free in-home trials so you can test them out before you fully commit.

Is an Elliptical or Treadmill Best for Me?

Researchers at the University of Mississippi found that elliptical trainers provide the same cardiovascular benefits as treadmill running, without the impact on your joints.

"An elliptical is a great low impact option versus a treadmill when it comes to running, which can be a great entry point to running," says Sung.

But a 2001 study in Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise determined that the treadmill burns calories at the highest rate of any exercise machine. So, if you're looking for a rig that can burn calories fastest, invest in a treadmill.

"If you plan to do any sort of incline walking, jogging, or running, as a means of cardiovascular exercise, I would certainly opt for a treadmill," explains Sung.

Is Running on a Treadmill Better Than Running Outside?

"Running on a treadmill may seem easier, however, there are certain settings that you can play around with which will make it more difficult. However, running outside gives you exposure to your peripheral nervous system (the act of moving around objects in space)," says Sung.

When it comes to difficulty, some people may find running on a treadmill easier because the surface is flat and predictable, with speed and incline that can be easily controlled. Others may find it more challenging because there is no variation in terrain or wind resistance, meaning no pushes and no easier stretches.

Running on a treadmill provides a more controlled environment, too, which allows you to monitor your pace and progress easier and without the use of apps. And it takes weather out of the equation, which in some places, is important. Running outside, on the other hand, exposes you to the elements, which can have additional mental and physical benefits.

How Much Should a Treadmill Cost?

As you can tell from our list, treadmill prices can vary. A lot. There are solid options available at various price points, ranging anywhere from from a few hundred dollars to several thousands (hello, Skillmill Curved Tread). But the value you get out of lower or higher end options is highly variable, too.

Ultimately, the amount you should spend on a treadmill depends on your budget and your needs. If you're in the market for a basic treadmill with limited features, expect to spend between $500 and $1,000 for a model that will last. While there are reasonable options under $500, though they typically offer the least features, weight capacity, and longevity.

Curved treads and those made for commercial use will run you some significant dough, as they're heavier-duty and built for high volume use. Meaning they'll last a long time.

If you want a high-end treadmill with advanced features like incline, decline, pre-set workout programs, and a large display, expect to spend between $1,500 and $3,000. If you're a serious athlete or want more extensive features on a top-of-the-line machine (like a curved tread), prices start in the thousands and range well into 5-figures.

Purchasing a treadmill can be an investment, of course. So take you time considering the most important factors: your budget, your fitness goals, and the features you won't want to live without.

When Is the Best Time to Buy a Treadmill?

While treadmills are typically pricey any time of year, there are a few key days to look for to save. They typically go on sale during the usual big holidays, like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Look for discounts on Memorial Day and Labor Day as well. But, the absolute best time to buy a treadmill is right now. January is when many treadmills go on sale as the best treadmill brands look to capture New Year’s resolution makers on the first of the year.

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Skillmill Curved Treadmill

The SKILLMILL is a non-motorized treadmill, but it features much more than just a curved deck. “Multidrive Technology” creates resistance on the free-spinning tread belt to turn the treadmill into a simulated sled push. The dual handlebar allows for both high and low sled pushes, and you can purchase other accessories (like straps or a waist belt) to add additional versatility to your machine.

Although the display is simple like that of TrueForm or AssaultFitness, it does connect to a compatible app via Bluetooth. We like the addition of being able to see more in-depth information about my progress and past workouts all in one place.

And if you needed another reason to love this manual treadmill, the deck on this thing is LENGTHY. It’s 66 inches long, which is 11 inches over the industry standard for walking and 6 over for running. Plus, the 395-pound user weight capacity (oddly specific, but we're here for it) is generous and ideal for people of almost all sizes.

Read more: Curved Treadmills

Commercial 1750 Treadmill

The NordicTrack 1750 has been a long-standing favorite among MH fitness editors and hardcore indoor runners for years, and with good reason: It’s an all-around winner. The 14-inch touchscreen is responsive and compatible with iFIT programming, and the newest edition features both incline and decline.

The 1750 is one of the most stable treadmills we've ever been on, likely thanks to its durable build and powerful 3.5 CHP motor. Other things to love include the 20-inch-by-60-inch deck, which is outfitted with generous cushioning (RIP to the now defunct SelectTech cushioning), and the new lower step up height.

The 1750 is like the person you knew in high school that was really smart and also good at sports. You wonder how they do it, but they’re just all around excellent at pretty much everything–like the 1750. The only two things we'd change on this machine would be to extend the 10-year frame warranty (we expect at least 15) and make the machine easier to move. Otherwise, this machine is a sure-fire winner.

What do buyers say? "So happy with this treadmill... The treadmill itself exceeded my expectations," said one Amazon reviewer.

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Run CX Treadmill

Life Fitness' Run CX treadmill brings an outdoor running experience into your house, keeping your knees and ankles cushioned against the stresses of running thanks to a FlexDeck Shock Absorption System. It offers a host of on-demand classes that you can watch on a tablet of your choice as well.

This is a premium treadmill that's built to last, and it's sturdy enough to accommodate more than running, letting you work in lateral shuffles, and backpedals, too.

What do buyers say? "Outstanding treadmill - industrial quality by LifeFitness at a high-end, home-gym price point," said one LifeFitness.com reviewer.

Read more: Best Home Gym Equipment

Runner Curved Non-Motorized Treadmill

The TrueForm Runner is non-motorized, meaning the only thing powering it is you, and trust us, you’ll feel it. It features over 200 ABEC Bearings that the rubber track runs on to create a smooth, yet responsive feeling that is superior to standard treadmills. Although the TrueForm Runner is built to take a beating, it’s unique shape is actually incredibly well thought out. Rather than being flat, the curved design is there to help improve your running form by forcing you to go from heel striking to a mid-foot strike (which is a much better way to run.)

And because it’s powered by you, you’ll get better hamstring and glute engagement — and you’ll be able to reach speeds that many conventional treadmills can’t, if you’re so inclined. If you want to sprint or interval-train with true intensity on a treadmill, this is the way to go, even if there is a bit of a learning, err, curve to this one.

Plus, the 400-pound weight capacity means heavier folks can enjoy this treadmill, too. And if you’re worried about dropping a chunk of change on this machine, don’t sweat it. TrueForm offers a 20-year frame warranty in case anything goes wrong, so you can feel confident about your purchase.

However, we've never been overly enthused by the LCD display on the Trainer. It only shows the most basic of stats (think pace, speed, distance, and time), and looks like something straight out of 1980. If you’re looking for engaging programming or a built in touch screen, this isn’t the treadmill for you.

What do other buyers say? “Well made,” a five-star reviewer shares. “Great option for bad weather or limited outdoor running options. I mostly use it for shorter runs and sprint WODs. Outstanding run feel. Quiet operation. How it outperforms a motorized treadmill: no startup delay. You can hop on and sprint 50 meters without delay. Very pleased with the purchase.”

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EXP 14i Treadmill

The NordicTrack EXP 14i is the top-of the line option within the more affordable EXP series, which also includes the EXP7i and the EXP10i. We were fortunate enough to test this treadmill at NordicTrack’s headquarters in Logan, Utah and it’s safe to say we're fans.

Its powerful 3.5 continuous Hp motor allows for speeds up to 12 MPH as well as a wide decline/incline range from -3% to 12%. Aside from the commercial-grade motor and nearly bulletproof belt, this model has a 14-inch HD touchscreen display with live iFit classes to guide you through a run whenever you want.

When using this machine, we were impressed by the solid build and easy-to-use controls. The touchscreen display is flanked by quick key buttons to adjust speed and incline to your likeness in one touch, instead of repeatedly pressing a button while trying to speed up or slow down.

The 20-inch-by-55-inch deck hits the industry standard for deck size, but especially tall individuals may notice they have to shorten their stride length a bit while running.

We found that its base and belt (which isn't too narrow or wide) could hold steady when used by bigger guys (up to 300 pounds). Its FlexSelect Cushioning makes for a softer landing than many other treads, which made it feel a bit easier on the knees for some. It also offers a quieter experience compared to many other models (your downstairs neighbors will thank you).

What do buyers say? "A great treadmill for anyone. This treadmill is quite compact and easy to move around. The one thing I really liked was the shock-absorbing aspects, it really helps with my knees and ankles," said one Dick's Sporting Goods reviewer.

Cadence G 5.9i Folding Treadmill

The Weslo Cadence G 5.9i Treadmill is a no-frills piece of gym equipment that gets the job done for less strenuous workouts. We found that its 16 x 50 inch tread belt can accommodate most runners (though taller or heavier guys might want to invest in a bigger tread), and cushioning in the belt helps absorb some stride impact. We like that it folds up small and easily, making it functional for apartments or smaller rooms.

Some downsides: It has a low max speed at 10 mph, and can feel flimsier after a few months of wear and tear compared to higher-end options. Nonetheless, coupled with a decent warranty, there's no doubt that this machine provides good value.

If you're the market for a treadmill that doesn't break the bank, doesn't require maintenance, and does what it says, this one ticks all the boxes. If you're looking to use a treadmill for faster speeds or longer distances, you're better off investing in a heavier-duty option.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 2,700 Amazon reviews, 81% recommend the Weslo Cadence G 5.9i Folding Treadmill with at least a 4-star rating.

Read more: Best Wide Running Shoes

Tread

The Peloton Tread takes on the familiar feeling of a live studio experience, initially popularized by the Peloton Bike and compatible app.

We recommend the Peloton Tread for those that like a group class environment from the comfort of their own home. We found that the massive 23.8" HD touchscreen simulates the camaraderie of running in a race better than any other machine, fostering a competitive-yet-supportive class environment. This experience helps to increase how much people actually use their treadmills. Translation: Sure, this baby is expensive, but it’s worth the money. It’s an experience unlike any other that pretty much everyone has tried to copy.

The 59-inch-by-20-inch deck is large enough for almost any sized runner, and the 300-pound user weight capacity hits the industry standards we’d expect to see. The newly-added Tread lock makes this machine (now) safe to have around kids and pets who may be tempted to climb and play on it.

Despite the lofty price point, be sure to avoid the temptation of buying a discounted used machine and get yours new. In the past, it's unfortunately been prone to maintenance-related issues, so you’ll want a warranty in case anything happens to yours.

What do buyers say? "Quiet motor, smooth controls and super clear and bright display. Enjoy the scenic runs as well as the classes. Love it!" said one OnePeloton.com reviewer.

Commercial 2450 Treadmill

Another great product from NordicTrack, the Commercial 2450 Treadmill is a (fairly) new and improved version of their popular commercial series. The most notable upgrade is the massive 22" tilt and pivot touchscreen. The snazzy redesigned frame doesn't hurt, either. As the name suggests, this is treadmill designed for a commercial gym setting. But if you have the space, it makes a killer and long-lasting option for a home setup.

Commercial treadmills are made to take a greater beating than those designed for personal use. They use more robust motors, better quality belts, and have more intuitive displays. Yes, they cost more, but they also have a much longer life. This one isn’t for everyone, but if you want something that can take whatever you throw at it, this is the best way to go.

What do buyers say? "Have had this thing a few days now and am freakin' in love with it," said one Amazon reviewer.

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