The Best Treadmills Under $1,000, According to Customers – Shape Magazine

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 starting 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.

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. (Related: This Small-Space Workout Is Perfect for When You’re Too Cramped to Do Anything Else.)

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. 

TL;DR: 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 Nautilus, so you can stay on top of your fitness goals without breaking the bank.

Best Overall

This NordicTrack 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 7-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 this cutting-edge treadmill that matches your pace. Mind. Blown.)

Rave Review: “I have loved having this treadmill in my home. The iFit capabilities are great. There are many different options of workouts within the app ranging from brisk walks to runs and HIIT workouts. The Hawaii walks are beautiful. The treadmill is user-friendly. The screen is easy to function and gives detailed workout details (time, pace/mile, etc.). The incline movement is smooth and gradual and the track provides a smooth run. I also enjoy the tablet attachment for reading, movies, etc.”

Buy It: , $597 $900,  

Easiest to Assemble

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 $600, 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, hit play on this treadmill tone-up playlist.)

Rave Review: “1. The easiest machine I have ever assembled. 2. Smooth and easy to use. 3. 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, $600, amazon.com

Most Powerful

NordicTrack is a trusted name in the running world, and while this $600 treadmill may not be its most high-end model (see above for that), it definitely lives up to the quality of the brand. The no-fuss treadmill focuses on power and function, using an impressive motor that keeps the belt flowing fast and effortlessly. A small, 5-inch display allows you to keep track of your pace and timing, while the responsive, shock-absorbing belt feels like running on clouds with each stride. Plus, you’ll get a free month of the training app iFit with your purchase. (Speaking of which…here are the best workout apps to download right now.)

Rave Review: “It performs flawlessly and does everything you could ask of a treadmill. I especially love the smooth automatic incline that gives me the “hill” resistance I need to train. Folds up easily for storage between workouts. As to VALUE…it’s worth way more than the asking price! Get it.”

Buy It: NordicTrack T Series 6.5S Treadmill, $599, amazon.com

Most Durable

With a 325-pound weight capacity, this super durable option from ProForm comes with a large, 20-by-60-inch running belt. This treadmill is sturdier and more powerful than many other options in its price range, and it’s built to last. Aside from its reliable construction, it also boasts a built-in heart rate monitor, 22 preset workouts, and a 12-percent incline capability. The only con? It’s a bit difficult to assemble solo, so the $64 expert assembly add-on package is worth it, according to a few customers.

Rave Review: “A terrific value for the money. This treadmill is exactly as described and pictured, and I love it!! This is my second ProForm treadmill and this one though less expensive (by $200) than my other has almost the same features. My first one lasted about 20 years and hopefully, this one will last as long.” 

Buy It: ProForm 705 CST Treadmill, $745, amazon.com

Best Space-Saving Treadmill

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. (Whatever your athletic level, steer clear of these treadmill mistakes.) 

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 AM 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, $630 $700, amazon.com

Best Treadmill for Walking

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 did a good deal of research about which machine would be right for me. I needed a wider walkway and a machine that was quiet and made for walking. This fits the bill perfectly. Assembly was minimal and the machine was up and running in no time. The program is very simple, and perfect for someone who just is looking for a way to get walking to improve stamina.”

Buy It: Exerpeutic TF1000 Walk to Fitness Electric Treadmill, $465 $500, amazon.com

Best for Experienced Runners

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 22 built-in exercise programs, which users can personalize with their weight and exercise goals, making this the best option for experienced runners. With a 12-percent incline and 12 miles-per-hour capacity, this reliable treadmill will give even the most serious runners an intense workout. (Related: 5 Unique Ways to Make the Most of Your Treadmill)

Rave Review: “I absolutely love this thing…I had it set up completely in a half-hour, by myself. I got on it immediately and ran for 20 minutes, it’s quiet. The motor is barely audible and the footsteps can be easily overcome. I am a 200-pound man that runs 3 miles daily, and 6 on Sunday. So happy I found it!”

Buy It: , $699, $849,  

Most Affordable Treadmill

There are a lot of things that you can buy for $400, but you probably never thought a treadmill would be one of them. This $399 treadmill from Sunny Health & Fitness—currently on sale for just $289—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 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. 

Rave Review: “After a ton of research I purchased this treadmill in 2015. I am a long-distance runner on a small budget. The price tag and the reviews were great so I decided to go for it. The manual incline is what it is but otherwise, this treadmill is rock solid. I have owned this treadmill for 5 years now and have logged thousands of miles on it. I have trained for multiple half marathons, 4 full marathons, and an ultra-marathon with the help of this machine. It’s rugged, the shock absorption is great, 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! We have spent a lot of quality time together. The only maintenance I do is to clean and lubricate the belt every few months.”

Buy It: Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill, $289, $399, amazon.com

Best Treadmill Under $400

While all of these options are under $1,000, this $386 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 three incline levels and goes up to seven miles-per-hour in speed, 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 tablet holder so you can binge your latest Netflix obsession (10/10 recommend Cheer) while getting your heart pumping. 

Rave Review: “Great treadmill at a great price. For the money, you can’t beat this treadmill. After taking this out of the box I couldn’t believe it only required 4 simple screws–it might as well say ‘comes fully assembled’. I love the motorized release when letting the belt down. The screen is bright and shows time and distance.”

Buy It: Goplus Folding Treadmill, $386, amazon.com

Best Shock Absorption 

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 Nautilus treadmill comes in: This treadmill is designed to prevent and relieve these ailments with a signature strike zone cushioning system on the running belt that helps absorb shock. The result? Less impact on the joints and a lower risk of pain and injury. Along with 26 built-in workout plans, it also has a powerful motor, a 15-percent incline capability, and Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to track your performance. 

Rave Review: “Have had this treadmill for almost a year now, and we love it! The programs are great, having different users is nice too. It feels very sturdy, a gym-quality machine in my opinion. The fold-up feature is nice, to keep my kids off of it, and it’s still quite sturdy folded up.”

Buy It: , $799, $999,

• By Gabrielle Hondorp