The Best Treadmills Under $1,000 to Create an At-Home Gym On a Budget
Amazon
Whether it's due to inclement weather or inaccessibility to proper paths, running outside isn't always possible. Enter: treadmills. If you belong to a gym, pounding the belt on the regular is a no-brainer. And the same could be true for working out at home — that is, of course, once you buy a treadmill. First, however, you need to determine how much to spend (ugh, those notoriously high costs) and which machine to spend it on. But before you start groaning... Good news: Buying a treadmill doesn't always have to put a dent in your wallet, and it is possible to get one while you're on a strict budget. You just have to know where to look and what to look for.
The Best Treadmills Under $1,000
Best Overall: NordicTrack T Series Treadmill
Easiest to Assemble: Horizon Fitness T101 Go Series Treadmill
Most Durable: ProForm Carbon T7 Treadmill
Best Space-Saving Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness Asuna Space Saving Treadmill
Best Treadmill for Walking: Exerpeutic 400xl Fitness Walking Electric Treadmill
Best for Experienced Runners: Schwinn 810 Treadmill
Most Affordable Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill
Best Folding Treadmill: Goplus Folding Treadmill
Best Shock Absorption: MaxKare Foldable Electric Treadmill
Best for Intervals: Sunny Health SF-T7515 Smart Treadmill
How to Choose the Right Treadmill
While higher-end treadmills typically offer a range of fancy features, it's important to keep in mind that those aren't always necessary. You can still get in a great cardio session without a built-in fan or a digital touch screen mapping your run, for example — instead, opting for a more basic, no-frills option will save you money and still get the job done. Plus, many affordable treadmills tend to be slimmer and more compact (some are even foldable!), which is particularly wonderful for those tiny city apartments.
When choosing a fitness machine, you'll also want to consider the type of treadmill. Generally, there are two options: manual (powered by your own running force) or motorized (powered by a motor). Manual treadmills can be more difficult to use at first — they rely on you to set your own pace — but they're typically much cheaper. Motorized treadmills are more standard and will offer more shock resistance and power, which tend to improve as they increase in price. (Related: Portable Gyms That'll Help You Get a Better Workout at Home)
Purchasing a treadmill can seem overwhelming, but staying on budget is easier than you think. Here are the best treadmills under $1,000, including machines from trusted brands like NordicTrack, ProForm, and Sunny Health, so you can stay on top of your fitness goals without breaking the bank.
Best Overall: NordicTrack T Series Treadmill
Walmart
This NordicTrack treadmill is a step above the rest (pun intended). While it sits closer to the top of the $1,000 budget, it's well worth the splurge. It boasts a 10 percent incline capability and a top speed of 10 miles per hour, all while providing a smooth and stable experience. It even comes with a 10-inch digital touchscreen display that connects to iFit, a subscription that brings you interactive, trainer-led workouts. When you're done, this savvy treadmill can be easily folded up and stored away. If you're looking for a product that checks all the boxes from luxury to functionality, this is it. (Psst...you might also want to check out some more workout equipment to make sure your home gym is fully stocked.)
Rave Review: "I usually don't write reviews, but this treadmill absolutely deserves one! I have had this for a little over a month and I am in love... highly recommend [it] if you want a great way to get in shape in your own home. It's very high-quality for an amazing price."
Buy It: NordicTrack T Series Treadmill, from $649, amazon.com
Easiest to Assemble: Horizon Fitness T101 Go Series Treadmill
Amazon
This durable treadmill from Horizon Fitness is praised by customers for its easy assembly and quiet motor. Plus, it's foldable (read: great for easy storage!). Costing just under $700, it has extra features you'd expect from pricier models, including Bluetooth capabilities, built-in speakers, a fan, and a tablet tray so you can stay entertained during your run. Most important is the function, which gives you 10 speed and 10 incline options — more than enough to power your workout. (For even more of a push through your workout, check out the best running headphones.)
Rave Review: "The easiest machine I have ever assembled. Smooth and easy to use. It feels like the gym moved into your house, and sound-proofed the room it took. This is an amazing product."
Buy It: Horizon Fitness T101 Go Series Treadmill, from $650, amazon.com
Most Durable: ProForm Carbon T7 Treadmill
Proform
With a 300-pound weight capacity, this super durable option from ProForm comes with a large 20-by-55-inch running belt that's strategically cushioned to provide a comfortable, tension-free landing. This folding treadmill is sturdier and more powerful than other options in its price range, and it's built to last. Aside from its reliable construction, it also has a built-in fan, iFit training sessions and preset workouts, and a 10-percent incline capability. The only con? It's a bit difficult to assemble solo, so the $20 expert assembly add-on package is worth it, according to a few customers.
Rave Review: "I absolutely love my treadmill. I never thought exercising would be so enjoyable. The machine is quiet and very user-friendly."
Buy It: ProForm Carbon T7 Treadmill, $999, proform.com
Best Space-Saving Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness Asuna Space Saving Treadmill
Amazon
Small enough to be folded up and stored under a bed, this compact treadmill is a minimalist's dream. Its sleek, modern design is basic yet efficient, and it can be easily moved from room to room thanks to the attached wheels and lightweight construction. This is a great option for beginner runners or those who don't have a lot of space to commit to workout equipment. If you're a more experienced runner, however, this buy may not be the best choice because the speed tops out at 8 miles per hour. (Related: Try These Cardio Workouts at the Gym When You're Sick of Your Usual Routine)
Rave Review: "Great product! I canceled my gym membership the same day it arrived. I live in Michigan and work full time and getting out to the gym during the winter months at 5 a.m. has become impossible. I also live in a #TinyHome renovation — so a traditional treadmill was never an option. This is easily stored underneath my bed and I can easily get up and run a few miles before work. Solid purchase."
Buy It: Sunny Health & Fitness Asuna Space Saving Treadmill, $515 (was $700), amazon.com
Best Treadmill for Walking: Exerpeutic 400xl Fitness Walking Electric Treadmill
Target
Treadmills are just as much for walking as they are for running. Walking is a vital component of cardiovascular fitness and overall health, and treadmills are a great way to log more steps throughout the day, no matter the pace. This affordable option from Exerpeutic is specifically designed for clocking steps: It has a large belt, long side handles, and maxes out at 4 miles per hour. The extended handles also make it a great option for older walkers who need a bit more stability or anyone who wishes to set up a walking desk. The lightweight design is also easily foldable and can be stored upright and out of the way between uses.
Rave Review: "I needed a basic electric treadmill for walking that fits in my apartment. This one is great so far!"
Buy It: Exerpeutic 400xl Fitness Walking Electric Treadmill, $496, target.com
Best for Experienced Runners: Schwinn 810 Treadmill
Amazon
While Schwinn is a trusted brand known mainly for its home exercise bikes, it also manufactures other top-quality gym equipment. And this Schwinn treadmill is no exception, thanks to a sturdy build, powerful motor, and useful add-on features like cupholders, a USB charging port, and an LCD display. It has 16 built-in exercise programs, which users can personalize with their weight and exercise goals, making this the best option for experienced runners. With a 10-percent incline and 10 miles-per-hour capacity, this reliable treadmill will give even the most serious runners an intense workout.
Rave Review: "I can't believe the bells and whistles this thing has for the price. It's the perfect home treadmill. I can actually run and not wake up the baby. I'm so happy I wish I would have gotten it sooner… Love the USB charger port and my iPad fits snuggly in the holder and won't fall. The speakers are a nice added touch and the cup holders are nice and large, so you can fit a baby monitor and don't have to be precise when you go to put your water bottle back."
Buy It: Schwinn Fitness 810 Treadmill, $800, was $1,300, amazon.com
Most Affordable Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill
Amazon
There are a lot of things that you can buy for under $500, but you probably never thought a treadmill would be one of them. This affordable option from Sunny Health & Fitness is here to prove you wrong. And while it may not be as much of a strain on your wallet compared to the other machines, this treadmill will still make you put in some work. With speeds up to 10 miles per hour, it's more than fast enough for most runners. Along with nine built-in workout programs shown on its LCD display, this treadmill also has three incline positions, though they have to be adjusted manually. (Related: The 8 Best Treadmills Under $500, According to Customer Reviews)
Rave Review: "I have owned this treadmill for five years now and have logged thousands of miles on it. I have trained for multiple half marathons, four full marathons, and an ultra-marathon with the help of this machine. It's rugged, the shock absorption is great, [it] can handle challenging speed workouts, has great tablet/phone/water bottle holders, and is easy to fold/unfold and move. I am thoroughly impressed and quite honestly really proud of this treadmill!"
Buy It: Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill, $399, amazon.com
Best Folding Treadmill: Goplus Folding Treadmill
Amazon
While all of these options are under $1,000, this under-$500 treadmill is as affordable as they come. While it may not be as fancy or fast as pricier models, reviewers say it does its job efficiently. It has two sport modes and a five-layer, non-slip, and shock-absorbing running belt, making it a great choice for beginner runners and casual joggers. Thanks to the soft-drop system that makes folding and unfolding a breeze, it's also super lightweight and easy to store. Plus, it comes with a phone holder and Bluetooth functionality so you can listen to your favorite tunes while getting your heart pumping. (Tight on space? Shop even more folding treadmills here.)
Rave Review: "I had been thinking for months to get a small indoor treadmill, ever since my office moved and I lost my 'gym in the building' convenience factor, which really hits you hard in the winter. I mean, who wants to leave their warm house and sofa to get in the car to drive to the gym during a snowstorm? I didn't execute on the idea, though, until it became clear that we were all going to be confined to our homes for weeks on end [due to the COVID-19 pandemic]. And [I] am happy I bought this. So far it's performing well."
Buy It: Goplus Folding Treadmill, $400 (was $500), amazon.com
Best Shock Absorption: MaxKare Folding Electric Treadmill
Walmart
Whether you prefer to run on a treadmill or in the great outdoors, it's no secret that running can wreak havoc on your joints and muscles and potentially cause common injuries like shin splints. But that's where the MaxKare treadmill comes in: This treadmill is designed to prevent and relieve these ailments with a multi-layer rubber-silicone running belt that helps absorb shock and vibration. The result? Less impact on the knees, ankles, and joints, and a lower risk of pain and injury. Along with three manual inclines settings, it also has a powerful motor, a soft-drop folding system, and a large LCD screen that doubles as a holder for your phone and tablet. Walmart reviewers have given this affordable folding treadmill an average 4.4-star rating, praising its compact-yet-spacious design, easy assembly, and sturdy build.
Buy It: MaxKare Folding Electric Treadmill, $270 (was $600), walmart.com
Best for Intervals: Sunny Health SF-T7515 Smart Treadmill
Amazon
Equipped with quick speed and interval buttons and 12 levels of incline, this Sunny Health treadmill makes interval training a breeze for any runner — even beginners. To get you into beast mode, it also has Bluetooth connectivity so you can blast your favorite cardio playlist while you run. Plus, its shock-absorbing tread deck, multifunctional display monitor, and soft drop folding system aren't too bad either. (Related: The Complete Buyer's Guide to Peloton Treadmills)
Rave Review: "After doing my homework on a couple of different treadmills for my home, I chose this one (keeping in mind a few important points: cost, size, incline capability, sturdiness, and of course reviews). I believe this was the best one in my $500-or-less budget and it has been great so far. Pretty cool that you can plug in your phone via an AUX port and have your music playing through the speakers... and the handle controls are super convenient! I've been using it for about two months now, and so far so good! I am 5 feet, 4 inches and 180 pounds and it works perfectly! I do mostly fast-paced walking, but I also jog on it and it feels sturdy enough when I do run a little harder."
Buy It: Sunny Health SF-T7515 Smart Treadmill, $489 (was $530), amazon.com
