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Best Treadmills 2024: Top-Rated Home Treadmills for Every Goal

A home treadmill should be durable, compact, quiet, and have options to pair with your favorite fitness apps. Our Best Overall pick is from NordicTrack.

Equipment
11 min readOctober 19th, 2023

OVERVIEW

The best treadmills for home gyms are celebrated for their versatility and reliability, standing out as the most popular choice. Knowing you can get a great workout in rain or shine is a considerable advantage, but with thousands of options today, how do you choose the best treadmill?

In this guide, I'll introduce you to the best treadmills for home gyms, highlighting the market's most popular and highest-rated options. I'll also break down all the features you need to compare when shopping for treadmills and share my top picks for the overall winner and the best treadmills for beginners, compact spaces, joint health, and hardcore runners.

Best Treadmills

Best Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Best for Beginners: Horizon Fitness 7.0

Best for Small Spaces: ProForm City L6

Best for Joint Health: NordicTrack EXP 7i

Best for Runners: Horizon Fitness 7.8 AT

How to Choose a Top-Rated Home Treadmill

There are many things to consider when buying a hefty machine like a treadmill. Besides budget, there are a dozen or more features to compare and contrast.

You must think about your primary training style. If you're looking for a simple walking pad for casual strolls indoors (see our favorite walking pad here), you're in a very different price range than a durable and well-equipped treadmill built for serious runners.

Here are 11 crucial features to consider when purchasing a treadmill.

Price

Your training style will have big implications for your budget, as a walking pad can go for a few hundred dollars while the best treadmills for runners can easily cost a few thousand.

Do you want to walk, jog, or sprint? That answer will help guide you in setting a reasonable budget.

Warranty

Treadmill warranties aren't straightforward, as different parts of the machine are often covered by separate warranties.

The frame usually has a more extended warranty, such as 10 years or more, while the labor warranty (the cost of repairs) often only lasts a year. Typically, the warranty gets longer the more expensive a machine is, but be sure to read the fine print.

Shipping & Setup

Shipping costs are a serious consideration when purchasing a treadmill. Companies that sell the bulkier and heavier traditional treadmills typically offer a shipping and set-up combination of some variety (if you think setting up an Ikea shelf is tough, try putting together a cardio machine).

Some companies go as far as white glove service, so review your options and factor the additional cost into your budget if you're not handy.

Dimensions

You must be aware of the dimensions of the treadmill in all positions. While many traditional treadmills are free-standing, some are meant to fold up for storage. Make sure no matter which style you choose, there is enough room in your designated home gym area.

Running Area

The belt that you run on is called a deck. The length and width of the deck are crucial for runners as they must take longer strides, and also for anyone with long legs. Nothing is worse than having to awkwardly shorten your stride during a run!

A standard deck size on treadmills for runners is 55 inches long by at least 18 inches wide. If you only plan on using your treadmill for walking, you can get away with less.

Maximum Speed

Most treadmills top out around 12 to 15 MPH, with walking pads reaching 5 to 8 MPH. Again, know whether you'll use your machine primarily for walking, running, or sprinting before purchasing.

Incline Range

Commercial treadmills you'd find in the gym can usually create incline, and some premium brands even offer decline.

Having a treadmill with an incline can be helpful if you're preparing for a race with elevation or you're a hiker.

Storage

Another element to consider when purchasing the best treadmills for your home gym is storage. A standard treadmill may suit you fine if you have ample space, while smaller folding options are great for tight spaces. Measure the space beforehand and pay close attention to the specs listing the treadmill's dimensions.

App Pairing

Many treadmills now come with premium features like Bluetooth connectivity, and some even integrate with their patented fitness subscription service.

If you have a fitness app that you love using, I recommend starting with their compatible treadmills and seeing if any of those options are appealing.

While some companies allow integrations with multiple fitness apps, it's rare. And you don't want to invest in a treadmill only to find you can't access your favorite workouts or trainers on your new machine.

Weight Capacity

The best treadmills for durability and user support typically have around a 300 lb capacity, so bear that in mind if you need a higher capacity.

Each treadmill was selected based on the following criteria and features.

  • Price
  • Speed
  • Incline options
  • Deck size
  • Weight capacity
  • Storage options & machine dimensions
  • Warranty
  • Shipping & set-up options
  • Tech pairing options & integrations

I also evaluate exercise equipment based on my personal experiences, company reputation, and details from customer reviews and industry experts.

Individual Reviews
Purchase today for $1,999

NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Best Overall

  • 12% Incline
  • Speed up to 12 mph
  • SpaceSaver folding design

NordicTrack is one of the most recognized names in home cardio equipment, and the Commercial 1750 is one of their most popular products.

Redesigned in 2023, the Commercial 1750 Treadmill has everything you need in a home cardio machine. It has a top speed of 12 MPH, a wide running deck, incline and decline options, and a 300 lb user capacity. Its sturdy design and generous training options allow for various workouts.

This well-made treadmill has premium features like a 14-inch swivel touchscreen display, premium audio speakers, automatic workout adjustments, and integration with the iFIT fitness app.

You also get a free 30-day iFIT trial with purchase, and that's one of the highlights of this treadmill. iFIT is a great option for anyone looking for inspiration or guidance throughout their workouts and includes access to thousands of classes and top-notch coaching.

This treadmill also features SmartAdjust technology that automatically adjusts belt speed with your iFIT workout session and flex select cushioning for extra comfort.

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is expensive, with a price tag of $2,499. While they do have financing available, this is still quite the investment. And for that price, I expect more of a warranty than 10 years for the frame, two years for parts, and one year for labor.

This treadmill comes with free shipping, and assembly can be purchased for an additional $199. While NordicTrack offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, returns will require payment of a $250 shipping charge and a 10% restocking fee, so beware.

The Commercial 1750 has a storage footprint of 80" L x 38" W x 65" H, but another unique feature of this treadmill is its folding mechanism that uses a hydraulic assist to make storage easy.

Multiple customers have complained about experiencing difficulty canceling their free iFIT subscription. This is a common phenomenon for many subscription-based services, but it’s frustrating, nonetheless.

If you plan on canceling your subscription before you are charged, give yourself plenty of time to work with customer service, and don't be surprised if you have to make multiple inquiries.

Aside from the seedy subscription practices, I think the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is a fantastic option for anyone who wants the complete package in a treadmill for home use.

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Pros
  • User-friendly
  • 10-year warranty
  • Tilt HD touchscreen
  • 20"x60" running deck
  • iFit app integration
  • Free 1-month trial of iFit
  • 30-day return policy
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Cons
  • Expensive relative to some other options
  • On the heavier side at 340 lbs.
  • $250 return charge + 10% fee
On sale for $999

Horizon Fitness 7.0

Best for Beginners

  • 15% incline
  • Speed up to 12 mph
  • Connect with apps like Zwift or Peloton

My hands-down favorite choice for beginners and budget-conscious buyers is from Horizon Fitness. This company boasts some of the best warranties in the industry and offers Bluetooth connectivity without app subscriptions or long-term commitments.

While most cardio machines have locked-in app integrations, Horizon Fitness has taken a different approach. The 7.0 AT Treadmill has a shelf for your tablet or phone and uses Bluetooth to support different fitness apps such as Peloton, Zwift, and more.

The Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Treadmill is the perfect choice for beginners because it offers all the expected treadmill features like a 20" by 60" running deck, up to 12 MPH and 15% incline, and a 277 lb user capacity at the unbeatable price of $999. Horizon Fitness offers financing on all their treadmill options, too.

While those details alone make it a great deal, it just keeps getting sweeter, as Horizon Fitness does not mess around regarding value. All treadmills from their studio line come with a lifetime warranty for the frame and motor, and the 7.0 AT includes a 3-year part warranty and 1 year on labor. They also offer various shipment and assembly options, including curbside, standard delivery, in-room, and white glove delivery and assembly–all for an extra fee.

The only downside I feel worth mentioning is their return policy. Horizon Fitness only gives you 30 days to return a treadmill, and it must be in new and working condition and include all original packaging.

You must submit a form or speak to someone from their customer service team. Even then, returns are approved on a case-by-case basis. Oh, and you get to pay a 20% restocking fee to boot. While policies like these aren't unheard of, they certainly aren't great for the customer, so take care when researching your purchase to avoid buyer's remorse.

My favorite unique features of Horizon Fitness treadmills are the QuickDial™ control that simplifies speed and incline adjustments without breaking your stride and the easy Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to easily connect to your favorite fitness apps.

This treadmill has a standard footprint of 76" L x 35" W x 66" H and has a hydraulic one-step folding feature for easy storage.

The Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Treadmill is an excellent option for beginners and anyone looking for a premium treadmill experience at a value price.

Horizon Fitness 7.0 Pros
  • Under $1,000
  • Quick dial feature
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • 20" x 60" running deck
  • 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning
Horizon Fitness 7.0 Cons
  • Small LED screen
  • Shipping costs extra
  • Complex return policy
Buy today for $599

ProForm City L6

Best for small spaces

  • No incline
  • Speed up to 10 mph
  • Compatible with iFit programming

If you're in the market for a sleek and minimalistic treadmill, look no further than the ProForm City L6.

With a total footprint of just 70.25" L x 29" W x 44.5" H and a total investment of $599, the City L6 from ProForm offers maximum convenience and value for small home gyms.

The handles can be folded down for easy storage, making it the perfect option for small spaces (see our favorite small in-home treadmills).

Because of its slim frame and simplified design, the ProForm City L6 does not offer an incline and has a maximum user weight capacity of 250 lb.

This treadmill is best for walkers and joggers as it tops out at only 8 MPH, and its running deck is small at 17.5" wide and 45" long. Thanks to its iFIT integration and free 30-day trial, you can still get a killer workout, thanks to the iFit expert coaches.

ProForm offers a respectable 10-year warranty on the frame, a 1-year warranty for parts and labor, and free shipping. Set-up is a breeze and can be done by one person with no problem.

This treadmill is lightweight, easy to store, and perfect for the casual cardio enthusiast who wants an affordable option for home.

ProForm City L6 Pros
  • Under $1,000
  • Free shipping
  • Easy setup
  • 30 days free iFIT trial
  • Lightweight
ProForm City L6 Cons
  • 250 lb user weight capacity
  • 8 MPH max speed
  • No incline
Buy today at $1,299

If you have joint issues or pain, treadmills can be uncomfortable to run on. Thankfully, NordicTrack has given those with joint problems a home workout solution with the NordicTrack EXP 7i.

This treadmill features FlexSelect™ deck cushioning technology, which protects joints by engaging dampeners or simulates a real road-running experience.

This extra comfort results in a smoother, more natural feeling run.

Moderately priced at $1,299 (with financing available), this treadmill can reach a 12% incline and maxes out at 10 MPH. It also has a 20" x 55" running deck and a 300 lb user capacity.

This treadmill has a moderate footprint at 70.8" L x 34.9" W x 59.7" H and the same SpaceSaver® Design with EasyLift™ Assist hydraulic system makes it easy to fold up and store.

The EXP 7i has the same NordicTrack standard warranty of 10 years for the frame, two years for parts, and one year for labor and free shipping, plus optional assembly that can be purchased for an additional $199.

One crucial thing to note about NordicTrack warranties is that they only cover temperature-controlled environments. This is essential fine print for anyone hoping to keep the treadmill in their garage gym, or unfinished basement.

NordicTrack also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on this treadmill, but returns will require payment of a $250 shipping charge and a 10% restocking fee.

The EXP 7i also comes with a free 30-day iFIT trial with purchase, and note that it is the only fitness app that integrates with this machine.

Overall, the NordicTrack EXP 7i is an excellent option and a superior choice for anyone with joint health concerns.

NordicTrack EXP 7i Pros
  • 10-year frame warranty
  • 20" x 50" running deck
  • SpaceSaver folding design
  • Incline and decline options
  • Durable and solid
NordicTrack EXP 7i Cons
  • Warranty only covers treadmill in climate-controlled areas
  • $250 return charge + 10% fee
  • On the heavier side at 228 lbs.
On sale at $1,999

The Horizon Fitness 7.8 AT Treadmill is the ultimate runner's treadmill. It features a 22" by 60" running deck, up to 12 MPH and 15% incline, and a 375 lb user capacity, plus 3 zone cushioning for comfort.

The 7.8 AT has the same standard Horizon Fitness Treadmill features as the 7.0 AT treadmill, such as QuickDial™ controls, personalized fitness app options through Bluetooth connectivity, and generous shipping and assembly options.

This treadmill comes with additional perks like a multi-position tablet holder, accessory tray, and media controls, plus a better warranty with a lifetime promise on the frame and motor, five years on parts, and two years on labor.

This treadmill is specially designed to accommodate HIIT-style training with its rapid sync motor. This motor design ensures no lags or delays between speed and incline changes, providing faster and smoother transitions during your workout.

All of these features come at a cost, though, and this treadmill is twice the cost of the 7.0 AT treadmill, totaling $1,999. While they do offer financing options, it's definitely an investment.

The 7.8 AT has a similar storage profile to its simpler counterpart, with 76" L x 37" W x 64" H dimensions and the same hydraulic folding option for easy storage.

The shipping and returning costs are the same as the 7.0 AT, and customers do not love how difficult Horizon Fitness makes returns. However, this treadmill has overwhelmingly positive reviews, so returns seem rare.

The Horizon Fitness 7.8 AT Treadmill is an exceptional option for serious runners and sprinters looking for a dependable training option for home.

Horizon Fitness 7.8 AT Pros
  • Quick dial feature
  • Quiet motor
  • 22" x 60" running deck
  • 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning
  • Hydraulic lift for storage
Horizon Fitness 7.8 AT Cons
  • Shipping costs extra
  • On the heavier side at 330 lbs.
  • Up to 20% fee for returns
Treadmill PriceRunning Deck DimensionsWeight CapacityWarranty
NordicTrack Commercial 1750$2,49938” W x 80” L300 lb 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill$99920” W x 60” L325 lbLifetime for frame & motor, 3-year parts, 1-year labor
ProForm City L6$59917.5” W x 45” L250 lb10-year frame, 1-year parts & labor
NordicTrack EXP 7i$1,29935” W x 60” L300 lb10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor
Horizon Fitness 7.8 AT Treadmill$1,99922” W x 60” L375 lbLifetime for frame & motor, 5-year parts, 2-year labor

Bottom Line on the Top-Rated Home Treadmills

Our best overall treadmill pick is the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 because it’s easy to use with a large touchscreen. It’s a durable and well-made piece of equipment, from a trusted brand in fitness. It’s also easy to store with the ability to fold.

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is quiet and well cushioned with a top speed of 12 miles per hour and an optional include of up to 12%. This treadmill includes a 30-day return policy and a 10-year frame warranty.

It comes with an iFit app integration, including a 30-day trial of iFit to make the most of your treadmill workouts.

More Equipment Guides from GymBird Experts

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