The Best Treadmills, Tested And Reviewed By Fitness Experts (2024)

Since 2020, the Forbes Vetted team has evaluated over 50 of of the best treadmills for home use that combine superior construction, advanced features, user-friendly interfaces and long-term durability. Our pick for the best treadmill in 2024 is the NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750, thanks to its exceptional quality and sturdiness. Our testers and expert panel were impressed by its powerful motor; wide, well-cushioned deck; and thoughtful extras, like decline capabilities, a large, swiveling touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity. In addition to the 1750, this guide suggests six other treadmills that all scored high marks in our ongoing testing, as performed by our team of editors and contributing experts—a group that includes certified personal trainers, competitive runners and amateur athletes alike.

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, we found that this treadmill provided an extra-gentle experience on our joints and made it a game-changer for extended walking sessions.

The F80 has incline levels going 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 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. We 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, we 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, our Best Overall pick, 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.

In our opinion, the Peloton Tread is the best treadmill for running-specific workouts, offering incredible versatility and performance that’s specially geared for the sport. With a maximum speed of 12.5 mph and up to a 12.5% incline, 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+.)

We loved 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. We 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 NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750’s patented Runners Flex belt and the double-woven construction of the Sole Fitness F80 (which felt a little too squishy for us during runs). Linda LoRe, head coach at the Mile High Run Club in New York City and one of our expert testers, also called out that this machine feels better to run on than most others she’s tried.

We 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, its safety features have been improved in recent years 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 admired 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 our 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 prohibitively expensive. It’s got 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 C1750 and C1250; 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.

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. Most of our expert testers told us that they prefer the feeling of running on a slat belt treadmill because 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—like the famed Woodway 4Front, which is priced in the five digits and feels more appropriate for top-tier commercial gyms and fitness classes, and the AssaultRunner Pro, which doesn’t have a motor and runs entirely manually—we think the Peloton Tread+ is the best slat-style treadmill for most users. (In fact, we researched this treadmill’s nearest competitor in both accessibility and price, the Sole ST90, and considered testing it for this story, but poor customer reviews led us to skip it.)

The tread features a whopping 67 inches of prime running real estate that’s grippy and cushy, and this bounciness gave us 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 we took classes or ran easy while streaming movies or music, we were 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. The experts we spoke with, including running coach LoRe, also like that this model offers a more intense manual workout if you’re looking to build up leg strength: 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.”

You’ll see safety features that outdo other models we 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 we 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 we 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). We 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, we 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.

Why You Can Trust The Treadmill Advice In This Guide

This story was written by author and Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta, with help from contributing writer Lesley Rotchford and insights from seven experts with backgrounds in running and physical therapy. The Forbes Vetted gear team is well-versed in all things fitness; we love evaluating products at the intersection of 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.

About The Authors

• Forbes Vetted contributing writer Lesley Rotchford tested 14 treadmills for this guide, and helped gather additional insights and opinions from a wide range of athletes at different abilities and with different needs. Rotchford is a former track runner who has completed four marathons and still runs 40 to 50 miles per week, often on the treadmill.
• Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta, who co-wrote this story with Rotchford, holds a degree in kinesiology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he spent extended periods working with the institution’s locomotion research group. He combined Rotchford’s testing evaluations with his own experiences running on equipment from NordicTrack, BowFlex, Peloton and others to identify the best treadmills. In addition to his fitness background, Vigliotta has raced competitively for nearly a decade, participating in events ranging from 5Ks to ultramarathons.

About Our Expert Panel

• In addition to her own personal experience with this fitness equipment, Rotchford interviewed multiple experts for their hands-on testing notes on several treadmills, including: Sheila Monaghan, a competitive marathoner and triathlete, and vice president of content and programming at Exos, a wellness and performance coaching company; David Siik, founder of Precision Run at Equinox and author of The Ultimate Treadmill Workout; marathoner and triathlete Tom Holland, who founded and owns Team Holland and has authored The Marathon Method; and Linda LoRe, head coach at the Mile High Run Club in New York City.
• To gather treadmill buying advice, Rotchford spoke to: Elizabeth “Corky” Corkum, a personal trainer and running coach in New York City; Stephen Marcotte, a workout design and experience manager at Orangetheory Fitness; and Craig Vitale, a triathlete, performance coach and CEO of Combine Training in Connecticut.

About Our Editing And Reviewing Process

• Forbes Vetted editorial director Brinda Ayer reviewed the latest version of this story for accuracy, information flow and adherence to our style guide and editorial policies. She also provided input on product selections. Ayer is a seasoned runner who races all distances at a competitive level, and has completed three World Major marathons under the supervision of a professional coach.
• 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. This story was last updated in June 2024. Content updates are overseen by Katie Simpson, CPT; and Forbes Vetted executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers, who holds a degree in food and nutrition from Framingham State University plus a certificate in holistic nutrition consulting from the American College of Healthcare Sciences.

How We Chose And Tested The Best Treadmills

By combining extensive research, expert opinions and firsthand experience testing dozens of models, we’ve assembled a list of the best treadmills that cater to various needs and preferences, ensuring you can find the perfect fit for you. Here’s how we did it:

• We compiled a list of models from reputable brands and compared the features of their best-selling equipment. To ensure our picks resonated with real users, we also considered the treadmills most popular among Forbes Vetted readers.
• With our own topical experience, research and insights gleaned from interviewing experts in the running and fitness space, we developed a rubric outlining the ideal performance requirements and features for a top treadmill.
• 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.
• With this narrowed-down pool, we got to testing. Rotchford and Vigliotta ran and walked for hours on treadmills at showrooms, hotels, gyms, apartment buildings and real-life homes. Rotchford spent time on over ten treadmills, while Vigliotta ran on the BowFlex Treadmill 10, NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750, NordicTrack Commercial Series 1250 and the Peloton Tread.
• 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.
• 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.
• In addition to firsthand testing by writers Rotchford and Vigliotta, we gleaned testing insights from Forbes Vetted staffers with hands-on experience personally using a number of these treadmills, including senior deals editor Kara Cuzzone, executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers, senior strategy analyst Catie Jaffe, audience development director Spencer Dukoff and executive editor Dave Johnson. Each of these staffers has diverse fitness backgrounds—some run regularly and participate in races, while others do so casually for general exercise and movement—and make up a well-rounded feedback pool. In some cases, these colleagues provided the testing imagery displayed in this article to show readers how the treadmills might live in their own spaces.

How To Choose A Treadmill

When buying a treadmill, it's important to consider several key factors that ensure it meets your needs and fits in with your lifestyle. Here’s some advice on where to begin.

Set A Budget

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. “I tell anyone considering getting a treadmill to write down how much they think they will use the treadmill and then cut that number by about 30%—that is likely how much they will use their treadmill at home,” says Siik. “Then use that number to guide your budget.”

Evaluate Your Size And Space

Measure your workout space to understand 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; others are either light or designed to fold in half to save space, like our top pick, the NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750.

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.

Consider Speed, Incline And Decline Needs

If you plan on doing interval or HIIT workouts that involve running at high speeds, or if you want to make your walks or runs more challenging with hill climbs, you’ll need a treadmill with advanced capabilities in these areas. 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. Steep inclines of up to 15% are especially good for walkers who want to work up a bigger sweat as they exercise.

The Peloton Tread and Tread+ offer the fastest belt speeds (12.5 mph) among the models we tested, while many options in this guide, including the Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT and BowFlex Treadmill 10, offer gradients of up to 15%. Only a small handful of treadmills we researched and tested offered declines (namely the BowFlex, NordicTrack Commercial Series 1750 and NordicTrack Commercial Series 1250), which is a great feature for simulating real-road conditions with uphills and downhills.

Weigh The Importance Of Additional Features

Today’s treadmills offer all kinds of additional features, including touchscreen displays, built-in workout programs, Bluetooth connectivity, on-demand fitness classes and apps that allow you to stream your favorite content. It almost goes without saying: Before you spring for an expensive treadmill with tons of bells and whistles, 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. That said, many of the runners we spoke with, including Monaghan, stick with basic entertainment needs.

Treadmill Best Practices

Safety

• Familiarize yourself with your treadmill's safety features, such as the emergency stop button or safety key. These features not only prevent injury while you’re running on the machine, but they also ensure others, such as a child, can’t start up a treadmill unsupervised.
• Warm up for 5 to 10 minutes at a low speed to prevent injuries. According to the experts at Harvard Health Publishing of Harvard Medical School, you should start slowly and gradually pick up the pace for the best results.
• Keep the area around the treadmill clear of obstacles, and don’t hold onto the handrails as you run. Using the handrails to maintain your speed is often an indication that you’re running too fast for your own body.
• Wear comfortable footwear that offers ample traction and stability. If your running shoes have seen better days (generally, if they’ve been used for over 300 miles), consider perusing our guides that cover the best running shoes for women and men, stability running shoes and Hoka shoes.

Using Your Treadmill

• Set achievable goals and gradually increase workout intensity over time to avoid overexertion or injury. A workout should make you tired, but it shouldn’t compromise your form or impair your mobility for days at a time.
• Use incline and speed settings to vary workouts and engage different muscle groups. While a treadmill is designed primarily to exercise your lower body, it should also work your core, arms and shoulders.
• Maintain good posture with your head up, shoulders back and arms relaxed, positioned around waist level. Movements should feel natural, and your body should remain loose and tension-free from head to toe.
• You may like to use preset programs offered on the treadmill’s operating system to keep workouts interesting and challenging. Many models in this guide offer not only this functionality, but live and on-demand classes as well.

Care And Maintenance

• Wipe down your treadmill with a soft and absorbent cloth after each use, so no sweat gets left behind that another athlete might slip on.
• For heavier-duty jobs, use a cleaning solution that’s appropriate for gym equipment to keep your treadmill free of dirt and debris. If you’re not sure which one to use, check the manufacturer's website for recommended products.
• Consistently ensure the safety key is functioning correctly for worry-free operation.
• Check the tension and alignment of the treadmill belt on a monthly basis, especially if it sees a lot of use. Follow the instructions in the manual if you intend to make any adjustments, or contact the brand to schedule a service.
• If the belt shows signs of wear, replace it via the retailer’s website, using the machine’s model number for reference. Once you receive the replacement, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper installation, or contact the brand to have it replaced by a professional.

How Long Will A Treadmill Last?

A high-quality treadmill can last you a decade or more—and some have a warranty that lasts for life. That said, depending on how much you use the machine, you may need to have it fixed here and there. “The one thing I always tell people is that most treadmills will need some service. It is not like a stationary bike or a weight set,” says Siik. “Think of it like a car: It is a complex piece of machinery, and it will need some maintenance, so plan for that.”

Many of the models we recommend on this list have ample replacement and repair periods for both the frame and parts, so it’s worth checking with the manufacturer for coverage options if you do end up needing any service done to your machine.

How Much Do Treadmills Cost?

Treadmills can cost anywhere from under $200 to well over $10,000, depending on the style, quality and features of the equipment. Treadmills that cost less than $1,000 may lack some level of stability and sturdiness, and they often forgo premium features. If you want said additional features, such as live classes and intuitive controls, you can expect to spend in excess of $1,000, with high-end options going for much more than that. Slat-style treadmills start at around $3,000 and can run you more than $15,000.

Is A Home Treadmill Worth It?

A home treadmill can be a worthwhile investment if you're committed to regular movement and prefer the convenience of working out at home. This equipment eliminates the need for a pricey gym membership and allows you to exercise regardless of weather. Treadmills can also help with improving your running or walking consistency and reaching your personal goals sooner.

What Are The Most Reliable Treadmills?

The most reliable treadmills are designed and manufactured by established brands with a proven track record for building safe, durable machines. These include NordicTrack, BowFlex, Peloton, Horizon Fitness and Sole Fitness, all of which we’ve featured in this guide, as well as others like ProForm (a sister brand of NordicTrack) and LifeSpan Fitness. With powerful motors and attentive customer support, these brands offer a range of options to suit different users, from casual walkers to competitive runners.