As a runner who has raced competitively for nearly a decade, I highly recommend investing in an at-home treadmill. Beyond helping you stay consistent with your training, it also serves as a convenient alternative when running outside isn’t an option. To find the best treadmills for home, I recruited a former track runner to join me in evaluating over a dozen machines. After pooling together our testing feedback and evaluating our results, we landed on the best treadmill overall: the NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750. Its straightforward design, exceptional quality and an impressive array of entertainment features make it a clear winner.
We tested dozens of models to find the best treadmills for home in 2025.
In addition to the 1750, I recommend seven other treadmills that each scored high marks during our testing process, including everything from commercial-grade models to affordable finds. Our testing involved walking and running on dozens of models and analyzing each treadmill’s motor power, overall durability, ergonomics and running surface, in addition to other key features. Below, find the eight machines that passed our tests with flying colors.
As an athlete who spend hours each week running and walking on treadmills, I can confidently say that if you’re a serious competitor who logs a lot of miles—or a more casual gym goer who wants a high-quality machine that will last—you'll appreciate the NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750. I love its wide belt and generous running deck, which accommodates even the longest strides. Though it is admittedly large, it’s also foldable when not in use and uses hydraulics to assist (luckily so, because this machine weighs over 300 pounds).
The range of inclines adds to this “real road”-like feel, simulating hilly terrain with its incline variability; the machine can go from a 12% grade to a -3% decline (a rare and notable feature), mimicking a more realistic running experience. No other treadmill on this list matches or bests this incline variety other than the BowFlex Treadmill 10, which can go from 15% to -5% decline.
This treadmill actually has entertainment features I wanted to use, too: The touchscreen display swivels, allowing us to utilize the built-in iFIT workouts even when I stepped off the treadmill for some strength training or stretching. And the variety in the iFIT workouts caters to everyone—from beginners to elite runners—while the Google Maps street-view integration is a fantastic touch for an immersive experience.
If you can get by without the fitness classes and technology, it might be worth saving money on a model like the Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT, which offers similar power and incline figures. Likewise, the NordicTrack Commercial Series 1250 is also a little cheaper and shares a few of the same qualities as the 1750 in terms of foldability and iFIT technology, though its motor has a slightly less powerful 3.0 CHP. That said, if you value an extra-smooth ride with a bunch of added pluses and a solid warranty to boot, the Commercial 1750 is the way to go.
The Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT packs in a ton of value for its under-$1,000 price tag. The hydraulic lift allows you to fold the machine in half when it’s not in use—a feature you won’t often find at this price point, and one we really appreciate. In addition to its decent speed and incline variability controlled by thumb dials, this treadmill’s Bluetooth connectivity is useful: It allows you to use a tablet or phone to follow classes on platforms like Peloton, connect to training apps like Zwift or simply play music or movies. The 7.0 AT’s basic digital display, meanwhile, keeps your progress and important stats front and center, and a fast-charging USB port supplies juice to your devices.
The feel of the treadmill is comfortable, too; our tester found that our footfalls landed solidly on the flexible and appropriately cushioned deck, which measures a roomy 20 x 60 inches. This ample size is bested only by much more expensive models on this list, like the BowFlex Treadmill 10 and Sole Fitness F80.
Our tester couldn’t help but notice the treadmill’s lack of a built-in screen, which you can find on some treadmill models in this general price range, like the NordicTrack Commercial Series 1250 ($1,599 and our pick for the best folding treadmill) and the ProForm Carbon TLX ($999, though not listed in this guide). And while the size of the belt is sufficient for most athletes, some might find it a bit small, especially while running with lengthier strides at high speeds. Otherwise, if you’re looking for a treadmill that truly masters the basics with style, the Horizon 7.0 AT tops the list and doesn’t break the bank.
Sure, you can technically walk on any treadmill, but the Sole Fitness F80 stands out for its exceptional comfort during longer, low-impact workouts. Its 22-inch-wide belt provides more real estate than even the highest-end contender on this list, the Peloton Tread+ (which features a 20-inch-wide belt). Along with the belt’s double-woven construction and its thicker cushioning, our tester found that this treadmill provided an extra-gentle experience on joints and made it a game-changer for extended walking sessions.
The Sole Fitness F80's wide and extra-cushioned belt make it a great choice for longer walking ... [+]
The F80’s incline levels go from 0 to 15%, making it just one of a few on this list that can go this high up. This feature allows you to incorporate serious hill work into your routine, effectively transforming a simple walk into a true hike. Despite our tester’s preference for using it to walk, it’s still plenty versatile for easy running and some interval training, with a powerful, 3.5 CHP motor and a top speed of 12 mph. I appreciate the recent upgrades Sole Fitness made to the latest version of the F80, including a touchscreen with built-in entertainment apps via the Sole+ platform and a handy wireless charging pad. These features add a layer of convenience to workouts of any intensity.
With that said, the F80 isn’t perfect. For its price compared to others on this list, I would expect Sole Fitness to include a larger display than the current 10.1-inch screen. The treadmill also lacks the ability to decline, which would make for a more well-rounded experience. (If you value these two capabilities specifically and are looking for a contender around the same price, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750, might serve you better, as would the BowFlex 10.) Still, if you’re after a treadmill that’s specifically geared towards walkers—but can hold its own with runners, too—this model comes highly recommended.
If you’re a walker and your number-one priority is affordability, I recommend the Sperax Treadmill. While it’s certainly not the most feature-heavy option, its no-frills design is effective and easy to navigate, especially for beginner, walkers and light joggers. Unboxing and set-up took our tester approximately five minutes, which is impressive considering other options can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to set up. The belt is on the smaller side, but it works fine for the average adult.
You can operate it by pressing the buttons on the bar or via the remote control. (There is even a handy “3-to-6” button that allows you to toggle between 3 mph and 6 mph.) A bar at your feet displays the speed and the time elapsed, which takes some getting used to. And while the Sperax may lack more premium features like a built-in screen, I appreciate that it doesn’t cut corners on safety. It comes equipped with an emergency stop clip—an essential feature that stops the treadmill if you lose your footing.
Aside from the low price tag, the biggest appeal for this treadmill is the handlebar that folds down, converting it to a walking pad. If you work from home and want to get in some steps between meetings—or even during meetings—I think it’s an excellent choice. But if you’re looking for an affordable treadmill that supports more rigorous activity, I recommend the Horizon Fitness 7.0AT, which is considerably more robust in design and features.
After running on a variety of models, I found the Peloton Tread to be the best treadmill for running-specific workouts because it offers incredible versatility and performance that’s specially geared for the sport. With a maximum speed of 12.5 mph and an incline that reaches 12.5%, it's built to handle just about any kind of run you have in mind, from speed work to recovery miles. (Its top speed is the highest of any other picks we tried for this guide, with the exception of its sister model, the Peloton Tread+.)
I love how effortlessly it transitions between speed and incline levels, thanks to well-positioned knobs on the handrails (one for speed and one for incline, which you can see in the image below), and a handy “Jump” feature that automatically ratchets up both by a point each. I also really enjoyed its comfortable and cushioned belt, which provided one of the smoothest rides among the non-slat treadmills on this list, slightly edging out the NordricTrack 1750’s patented Runners Flex belt and the double-woven construction of the Sole Fitness F80 (which felt a little too squishy for me during runs).
The Peloton Tread was the best option we tested for running-specific use, due to its comfortable ... [+]
I appreciated the thoughtful details packed into this surprisingly svelte model (measuring 68 x 33 x 62 inches, with a max weight capacity of 300 pounds), too. For one thing, Peloton improved its safety features to make it suitable for families with young kids or curious pets. As a result of a 2021 recall that affected the Tread and the Tread+, there’s now a safety key with a designated passcode on this model, ensuring that the machine can't be accidentally unlocked. We also appreciated its impressive range of interactive workouts for runners of all levels, and while a Peloton membership costs $44 a month, the access to live classes (on and off the treadmill) plus the ability to stream TV shows, movies and live sports while you exercise made it worth it in my estimation. In fact, Peloton’s running-specific classes offered a degree of friendly competition and energy that other live classes from NordicTrack’s iFIT and BowFlex’s JRNY platforms couldn’t touch.
Of course, a piece of equipment of this caliber will cost a pretty penny, and for some, the price of the machine itself when combined with the monthly subscription service is a bit too steep. It has a much shorter warranty than others on this list, too. Last, the lack of decline; relatively low weight limit compared to models like the BowFlex and NordicTrack 1750; and inability for the screen to pivot or swivel may make it less attractive or usable for some athletes. Still, dedicated runners would be hard pressed to find a reputable treadmill with so many running-specific features to elevate every single workout, and for that reason, the Tread stands atop the podium.
The BowFlex Treadmill 10 is a great option for workouts that embrace incline. Its impressive -5% to 15% range can be configured to mimic real-world conditions, and the -5% decline bests other models on this list, including the Sole Fitness F80 and Peloton Tread+ (both of which offer 15% incline but can’t decline). The cushioned running deck provides even and consistent comfort during longer walks and runs, plus, it supports a maximum user capacity of 400 pounds, making it one of the accommodating models on this list. Our tester especially loved “the feeling of running on a big, sturdy deck,” which made her feel like she was “working out on a fancy commercial treadmill at the gym.” Even as she picked up the pace, this treadmill didn’t budge.
As capable as the BowFlex Treadmill 10 is, it’s a substantial piece of equipment best suited for a home gym or a dedicated workout space rather than a bedroom or office, with a weight of 323 pounds and dimensions of 85 x 39.6 x 65.3 inches. Its size is similar to that of a four-seater couch, making it pretty much impossible to tuck it in a corner to try and keep it out of sight. While the 10 does have a SoftDrop folding system that allows you to fold the treadmill in half fairly easily to save space, it was quite large even when folded.
As for cons: This was one of the harder treadmills to put together in our experience, and you may very well need another person to help you assemble it (whether a professional installer or just a very handy friend). It’s also got a smaller-than-average screen, both relative to its size and other contenders on this list, and that screen doesn’t tilt or swivel like the similarly priced NordicTrack 1750. Nevertheless, if top-notch sturdiness and serious incline are your main priorities, I think you’ll quickly fall in love with the BowFlex Treadmill 10.
The NordicTrack Commercial 1250 offers many of the great features found on our top pick, the 1750, but with a slimmer profile that makes it easier to fit in your space. While it has a slightly less powerful 3.0 CHP motor and a smaller 10-inch screen, the display itself is still plenty immersive like the one on the 1750, allowing you to access iFIT workouts and sync your runs with real-life routes on Google Maps. (It also pivots to let you stream strength workouts off the tread.) When I tested the 1250, I was happy with its incline capabilities, which go down to -3% and up to 12%.
The Commercial Series 1250 was the easiest treadmill model to fold and move around among those we tested. The deck lifts upwards to significantly reduce its footprint from 78.5 inches in length to 44, making it more convenient for smaller spaces. And while other models on this list fold in half, many of them are still extremely heavy to roll around and stow away; the Commercial 1250 is about 60 pounds lighter than the 1750, so you don’t have to worry about wrestling with a heavy deck after a tiring workout, or someone getting stuck underneath it. The only lighter-weight folding treadmills on this list are the Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT, which is missing some of the display and comfort features on this model, as well as the Sole Fitness F80, which doesn’t have hydraulic lifting assistance but simply a dampener on the way down.
Our primary equipment tester for this story also owns the now-discontinued predecessor to this treadmill, the NordicTrack C990—so she was able to compare and contrast what’s been improved upon or phased out. She noted that the previous-gen model was a workhorse for six years, but it was shaky and loud at high speeds. Fortunately, NordicTrack made the 1250 a little bigger and heavier and added more deck cushioning, which provides more stability and leads to a smoother, more comfortable run. With a max user capacity of 400 pounds, this machine is built to accommodate a wide range of users at a moderately affordable price.
Unlike traditional treadmills that feature running decks made from a single piece of rubber, a slat treadmill uses long strips of rubber, or slats, that connect to one another and form a running surface. Each rubberized strip, when connected to the next one, improves traction and reduces impact. This upgraded running surface definitely makes for an upgraded cost, with the cheapest of these models starting at about $3,000. While there are certainly a number of high-end, slat-style treadmills on the market, I think the Peloton Tread+ is the best of its kind for most users.
The tread features a whopping 67 inches of prime running real estate that’s grippy and cushy, and this bounciness gave our tester a real-road feel to our runs in a way that surpassed all other contenders in our trials. In addition to its spacious deck, the Tread+ also has a bigger 32-inch touchscreen that’s wonderfully vibrant, and a 20-inch sound bar that’s punchy. Whether our tester took classes or ran easy while streaming movies or music, she was totally captivated.
With a maximum incline of 15%, this model adds 2.5% more grade than the standard Tread. Intuitive dials positioned on the handrails make it easy to adjust speed and incline without breaking your stride, perfect for speed workouts with shorter intervals. Unlike any of the other treadmills in this guide, you can switch off the motor and move the belt with the force of your feet in “Free Mode.”
A grippy slat-based deck and large, immersive screen are just a couple reasons why we love the ... [+]
You’ll see safety features that outdo other models I recommend, too: In addition to the same password-activated belt lock on the standard Tread, the Tread+ has a rear safety guard that detects movement or touching at the back of the machine and automatically stops the motor when triggered. Again, these safety features were introduced in 2021 as a result of dozens of reported injuries and one child death, but the upgrades to the software and hardware have addressed the issue.
While I originally considered recommending the Tread+ for our Best Running Treadmill category, it’s difficult for most runners to justify this model’s nearly $6,000 sticker price, making it the most expensive treadmill on this list; this is why I instead recommend the original Tread for the majority of athletes. Beyond price, perhaps the Tread+’s most divisive quality is its appearance—it looks massive in almost any room beyond a dedicated home gym (and even then, as you can see in the image above, the Tread+ commands a good bit of space). I definitely recommend measuring your space before purchasing this equipment to ensure it fits. At 455 pounds and the heaviest treadmill we tested, too, there’s also no question of portability.
For such a big investment, I also don’t love the short warranty period, nor the fact that the screen doesn’t swivel; this made it harder to take advantage of the wide library of strength and other non-running classes available on the Peloton platform. But if you have the budget for this piece of equipment and can overlook its size in favor of its many benefits, you’ll quickly fall in love with the experience the Tread+ provides.
The Best Treadmills For Home Compared
The right treadmill for your home ultimately depends on your specific needs and fitness goals. To help you compare our top picks, we broke down each machine’s key specs in the chart below.
Other Treadmills We Considered
We researched and tested over a dozen different treadmills, but only eight made the final cut. However, a few options came close to making the list.
- ProForm Carbon TLX: At $999, there’s a lot to like about this treadmill in terms of value for the money. However, it doesn’t offer as much incline and it isn’t capable of supporting as much weight as the Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT The Carbon TLX uses traditional buttons instead of the 7.0 AT’s easy dial controls.
- NordicTrack EXP 10i: True to NordicTrack’s reputation, this treadmill is a durable, well-made pick. It’s nearly the same price as the Commercial Series 1250, but has a more limited incline range. Also, its screen doesn’t tilt and pivot, so your training is limited to what you can do on the machine (no stretching or strength training).
- AssaultRunner Pro: At $2,999, this pick is pretty expensive for a manual treadmill. It lacks a motor and display, so while its price tag isn’t far off other options on my list, it’s missing some of these basic features that motorized treadmills come with. For this reason, I think you’re better off getting a motorized treadmill at this price.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted gear team is well-versed in all things fitness; we regularly evaluate products that intersect technology and personal health, whether you’re looking to add a treadmill to your home gym or incorporate safe pre-workout blends into your diet.
- This story was written by Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta, who holds a degree in kinesiology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he spent extended periods working with the institution’s locomotion research group. In addition to his fitness background, Vigliotta has raced competitively for nearly a decade, participating in events ranging from 5Ks to ultramarathons.
- Forbes Vetted tester Lesley Rotchford ran on 14 treadmills for this guide. Rotchford is a former track runner who has completed four marathons and still runs 40 to 50 miles per week, often on the treadmill.
- Senior strategy editor Katie Simpson provided additional vetting for the products featured in this guide, ensuring we compared each model across key features that matter most to walkers and runners. Simpson is a certified personal trainer (CPT) with a lifelong passion for health and wellness.
- We know fitness trends and technology can quickly become outdated; that’s why we reevaluate this guide regularly and update it as needed to ensure it contains accurate, insightful information. It was last updated in January 2025 by lifestyle writer Claire Epting.
How We Tested The Best Treadmills
First, Rotchford and I compiled a list of models from reputable brands and compared the features of their best-selling equipment. With this narrowed-down pool, we got to testing. Rotchford and I ran and walked for hours on treadmills at showrooms, hotels, gyms, apartment buildings and real-life homes. Rotchford spent time on 14 treadmills, while I ran on the BowFlex Treadmill 10, NordicTrack 1750, NordicTrack 1250 and the Peloton Tread.
Performance
With our own topical experience, we developed a rubric outlining the ideal performance requirements and features for a top treadmill. When comparing treadmills, we considered motor power, running surface size and cushioning, incline and decline range, console features and connectivity, foldability and storage and overall build quality and durability. These factors helped us fairly evaluate treadmill models against one another to identify the best options for different needs.
User Experience
We ran on each treadmill, assessing motor power, incline options, running surface, smoothness of the ride and added perks like touchscreen displays and Bluetooth connectivity. We also looked at how easy these machines were to assemble, use and store, and paid close attention to safety features.
Customer Ratings
We then removed any models from the list of contenders that did not meet our rigorous standards. As a second layer of review, we combed through hundreds of customer reviews and omitted models with average ratings below 4 stars out of 5 across retailers.
How To Pick A Treadmill
When buying a treadmill, it's important to consider several key factors that ensure it meets your needs and fits your lifestyle. Personally, I look for treadmills with easy-to-use speed and incline settings to help mimic real-world conditions. Here’s some advice on where to begin.
Price Range
Start by setting a budget to understand how much you’re willing to spend on a treadmill. These days, you can pick up a reliable, no-frills option for less than $500, or spend in excess of $5,000 on a model with lots of premium extras. The first step is to consider which features you absolutely need and which you can live without based on your lifestyle. Options like a wider running deck or extra-cushioned belt; a touchscreen display that lets you access live classes or stream media content; and a wide range of speed and incline levels may cost more. Then, you’ll want to figure out how much you plan to use the machine—if you’re an avid runner who primarily trains indoors, a high-end treadmill may be worth the investment.
Size And Space
Measure your workout space to determine how much room you have for a treadmill, and look for models that fall within these measurements. Keep in mind that some treadmills, like the Peloton Tread+, are difficult to move once installed, while others are lighter and easier to shift around. While this isn't a requirement, it's nice to find high-quality options that fold in half to save space.
Also consider the space you may need when running, both at more moderate and higher speeds. If you’re tall, you’ll want to look for equipment with a longer, wider running belt to accommodate your stride. And even if you’re on the short side, you might still like running on big, hefty machines, as they are less likely to shake or rattle at high speeds. I look for a stable, cushioned deck that won't vibrate or shake to ensure I can push the pace without worry.
Speed
If you plan on doing interval or HIIT workouts that involve running at high speeds, you’ll need a treadmill with advanced capabilities in this area. Most people aren’t running at faster than 10 mph, so the 12 mph speed caps you’ll see on most models on this list should be just fine. The Peloton Tread and Tread+ offer the fastest belt speeds (12.5 mph) among the models we tested.
Incline And Decline
All of the options on this list—except for the Sperax Treadmill—allow you to walk on an incline, typically falling in the 12% to 15% range. Inclines of up to 15% are especially good for walkers who want to work up a bigger sweat as they exercise. Only a small handful of treadmills we researched and tested offered declines (namely the BowFlex, NordicTrack 1750 and NordicTrack 1250), which is a great feature for simulating real-road conditions with uphills and downhills.
Additional Features
Today’s treadmills offer all kinds of additional features, including touchscreen displays, built-in workout programs (like iFit, JRNY, Peloton and Echelon United), Bluetooth connectivity and apps that allow you to stream your favorite content. In addition, some high-end treadmills feature quick-access toggles or scrolling wheels along the siderails that makes changing speed and incline really easy so as not to interrupt your run. Before you spring for an expensive treadmill with tons of extras, consider which of these amenities you will actually use. If you’d benefit from extra motivation, for example, some of the entertainment features that these treadmills offer can be enormously helpful.
