Looking for a running machine for home use? A compact treadmill is the best way to exercise. In the reviews below we’ve compiled the best indoor treadmills today. We help you narrow down the list to a few machines that are small enough to fit in an apartment or home gym.
These machines offer interactive workout programs, are foldable, incline, and max speed 12 mph. In a rush? The Horizon Fitness treadmill. For most runners, this compact unit strikes a balance between performance and cost. It’s mid-sized and foldable to save space. This home treadmill is equipped with training programs and iFit fitness app for guided workout. No more guesswork. It offers maximum speed of 10 mph.
Our Top Home Running Machines At A Glance:
2. Sunny Health & Fitness Treadmill
3. Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
For a comprehensive breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of each running machine, keep on reading and I will show you my findings!
Best Running Machine for Home Use in 2024
1. Horizon Fitness Treadmill T101
The Horizon Fitness treadmill is one of the best running machine for home use. This best treadmill for home use brings the gym into your home.
This top-rated treadmill offers the sturdiness of the traditional treadmill and the responsiveness and performance of a smart treadmill. Here is why you need this high quality treadmill in your home gym.
The T101 treadmill is large, it measures 73 by 29 by 12″ which is quite big. It’s made of quality steel and hard plastic. This ensures user stability while exercising and the durability of the unit.
You’ll love how the treadmill feels underfoot from the first day. It feels sturdy and can stand whatever you throw its way. And for user weight, this structure holds up to 300 lbs which makes it ideal for most runners.
Now, I know you might be worried about the size; how do I move this big treadmill? Thankfully, the frame is foldable. The manufacturer has designed it to fold upwards. Also, it has built-in transport wheels for easy portability. Lastly, it’s available in black and gray and blends perfectly with any background.
Deck: Whether you are looking for an incline treadmill for walking or jogging or sprinting, this treadmill got you. It offers one of the widest running decks for comfortable exercising. The deck measures 55 by 20 which is wide and long for most fitness enthusiasts.
You can sprint, jog, and run on the surface comfortably. The surface is wide, giving you enough room to move your elbows comfortably.
Now, one of the most important features to look out for when getting a new treadmill is the belt cushioning system. You want your cardio training equipment to protect your knees against impact.
The T101 is integrated with FlexSelect that reduces stress on joints by up to 40%. You can look forward to a comfortable workout without worrying about your knees.
A powerful 2.5 chp motor is what this incline horizon fitness treadmill running machine for home use has to offer. It has a self-cooling system that ensures it runs as long as you are exercising. No overheating. No choking.
It works to ensure the running deck rolls smoothly throughout your workout session. It has top speed of up to 10 mph. The average human can splint at max speed of 8 mph and this makes the T101 sufficient for most fitness enthusiasts.
Now to the smart part of this equipment. The horizon fitness gym trainer with incline has a large easy to use console. It has water bottle holders so you can stay hydrated during your strength training sessions, a large interactive LCD display that helps you to keep track of the speed, distance, time, calories burned, and pick a fitness app and quick controls for speed and incline.
Pros
- Offers incline function up to 10% which will feel like running uphill
- Handles integrated with heart rate monitoring function
- Folds for easy storage
- Large touchscreen
Cons
- Does not have fans
- Has no decline feature
2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515 Treadmill
Sunny is a top rated brand that designs some of the best treadmills on the market. Why choose a Sunny and Health incline Treadmill?
- Affordability- Many treadmills by this brand cost below $700 which is a great price for a home treadmill.
- Durability: These home machines are made of quality steel, so it can last for many years, and are backed by manufacturer’s warranty
- Foldability: If you are looking for a sizeable treadmill, the SF-T7515 is what you need. The frame is not overtly huge plus it’s foldable. Here are a few more features you’ll love about this home treadmill.
Weighing just 121 lbs, the SF-T7515 is one of the lightest treadmills on the list. It’s small making it easy to move it around. Plus, the manufacturer has added transport wheels on its base for easy portability.
Like all Sunny treadmills, the SF-T7515 structure is made of quality steel for durability. This Sunny model can hold 240 lbs, making it best for most runners.
Also, it is foldable and doesn’t need much space making it the perfect choice for users living in apartments.
Deck: One of the reasons why the treadmill is the best for home is its cushioning. The running surface is integrated with Sunny’s low impact tech to ensure comfortable exercising and protect the knees, joints and back.
The surface measures about 50 by 17 inches which is bigger than what the Goplus Treadmill offers. You can walk, jog, and run on the treadmill comfortably.
For taller users looking for a treadmill with a wider belt, please check the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 or Proform Smart Pro below.
The running surface is powered by a 2.2 chp motor. For home use this capacity is sufficient for most people. It works silently and is id for long workouts. You can run from DC to Santa Fe smoothly.
This 2.2HP motor allows for top speed of up to 8 mph. For indoor exercising, this max speed is okay but if you are a serious runner you need a 12 mph treadmill; the Smart Pro offers a max speed 12 mph.
Pros
- Bluetooth enabled and 3mm jack for music
- Body Mass Index calculator so you can calculate the number of pounds to shed
- Whether you are running 3 miles or 20 miles, this training unit will run smoothly
Cons
- Has lower speeds than the NordicTrack Commercial
- No workout fans
Related Post: How much distance on a treadmill is a mile
3. Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
The Goplus 2 in 1 folding treadmill is a high performing treadmill made for the average workouts . This smart treadmill is best for anyone looking for a simple workout machine.
No fancy features. No training programs. No pulse monitoring. Just a running exercise machine.
First, this indoor treadmill ships pre-assembled. This means most of the work is already done for you. All you have to do is attach the handrail/riser and you are good to go.
The Goplus folding treadmill frame is quite light, just 74 lbs and comes with built-in wheels for portability. A 110 – 120 pound runner can push the treadmill easily.
Another reason why the Goplus is the best treadmill for home us is its fold flat design. The handrail folds completely for easy storage under a bed or couch. You can also store it in an upright position in a corner.
It is coated with scratch resistant paint that gives it a sleek look. It is also available in 4 gorgeous colors; blue, red, dark green and silver so you can choose a color that blends with your home or office theme.
For motor power you get 2.25 continuous horse power. It allows for top speed up to 7.5 mph. however, we found that this motor cannot sustain tougher sessions; 1 hour and above
But most fitness enthusiasts need about 15 minutes per days, so if that is your need, then this high end treadmill machine is okay.
The Goplus folding treadmill is one of the best low impact treadmills on the market. It features a 5-layered running deck. The layers include a shock absorption layer that minimizes stress on the joints.
Also, the belt is the standard size 40 by 16″ which works for most athletes. But, a taller user on our team was not comfortable when using this small trainer, so if you are on the taller side, go for the NordicTrack below.
Because of the size and design of this indoor treadmill, the console is built into the front part of the deck. It’s an LED touchscreen that is easy-to-read. It displays time, speed, distance and calories burned.
Pros
- Has removable handrails and easy to use touch screen
- Bluetooth connectivity to mobile device where you to listen to music as you workout
- Enough room for workouts
Cons
- No wireless heart rate sensors
Related Post: Do I Need a Mat Under My Treadmill? Click Here to Find Out!
4. NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
Purchase Direct at NordicTrack
NordicTrack Commercial Treadmills are built for serious runners. Also, if your legs are long, a NordicTrack treadmill is the best running machine for you.
Must Read Article: Will running make my legs thinner?
The NordicTrack Series is made up of powerful machines that can handle even the best marathoners. The Series is made up of the treadmill 1750, 2450, and the 2950.
Recently, we reviewed the 2450 indoor treadmill. For this article, our testers opted for the 1750 treadmill. Here is what we love about this model and what we believe the manufacturer needs to improve on.
NordicTrack incline units are quite large. The Commercial 1750 treadmill measures about 81.25 by 39.25 by 71 inches; length, width and height. It dwarfs our top option.
Now because of its size, you have to set aside space for it. The large frame is made of quality steel. It is coated with rust resistant paint so you can workout without worry about sweating on your equipment.
This incline treadmill weighs 309 lbs. I weigh about 140lb and honestly I didn’t try to push this machine. It’s heavy. Yes, it folds, bu it can stay permanently or until you have to move houses or something.
Now, the main advantage to its sizet 309 pounds is still heavy for most athletes.
I recommend you assemble it where is its sturdy to allow for interval training. Also, it has a powerful motor that can support this.
In my years of cardio training I’ve found that home treadmills with high chp offer the best in terms of interactive workout programs, and other features. The 1750 incline running treadmill with incline has a powerful 3.75 commercial grade motor; kinda like what you’ll find in the best treadmills for gym.
The self-cooling drive system will run as long as you are working out. Together with the 2.5-inch precision wheels, it ensures the deck runs smoothly and the treadmill does not vibrate.
Its top speed 12 mph is enough for most athletes. Also it’s great for smooth speed changes. With its speed and incline, you can’t go wrong with this unit.
The 1750 treadmill has one of the widest and longest running belts. Measuring 60 by 22 , even our tallest team members had an awesome time on this running treadmill.
You don’t have to adjust your stride length. No uncomfortable workout experience. You can run full stride comfortably. Speaking of comfort, the NordicTrack 1750 treadmill is a gentle giant.
The running surface has Flex low impact tech that minimizes impact by about 40%. You can walk, run, and jog without worrying about your knees and back. The larger the machine, the more the high end features users get to enjoy. Boasting of a wide, friendly lcd display, the 1750 is equipped to mark sure workouts are as comfortable as possible.
Pros
- This best treadmill for home has a maximum weight capacity 300 lbs
- Has a strong 10-year maximum warranty
- Can connect to headphones via Bluetooth
Cons
- Not telemetry enabled
5. Fitness Avenue Folding Treadmill
If you are on a budget, the Fitness Avenue is the best treadmill for you. This budget treadmill has loads of awesome high end features and is best for runners weighing 220 pounds and below. Here is what you’ll get from this incline treadmill
Another reason why most runners prefer this home treadmill is its compact size. Compared to the Horizon or NordicTrack incline treadmill above, this running machine is on the smaller side. Measuring 51 by 28 by 45″ , this treadmill does not need much space is ideal for any runner living in an apartment or with limited gym space.
This indoor treadmill is made of steel; a material that is sturdy and durable. It is designed to support up to 220 lbs without vibrating.
The manufacturer claims it can support people from 4.6 – 6.2 ft, however per our taller team members had a hard time sprinting on the treadmill.
But, If you are 5’8” and above go for a treadmill with a larger frame. Check out these sprinting treadmill for serious runners or the NordicTrack model below.
This trainer is coated with black scratch resistant and rust resistant paint so you don’t have to worry about sweat or accidental spills.
An indoor treadmill’s chp dictates training options and duration of exercise on their treadmill running machine. The MaxKare folding treadmill trainer has a 2.5 chp motor.
This capacity provides a max speed of 8.5 mph or 13.6 km/h. It works quietly and does not overheat.
The Fitness avenue folding treadmill is a wide belt treadmill. With a 17-inch wide running belt, this fitness equipment accommodates athletes of all sizes. You can run comfortably without squeezing your thighs. The running surface is about 43 inches and has an anti-shock system to protect your knees.
Console: Its console area is way smaller than the NordicTrack’s. Honestly after using the horizon fitness for some days and then switching to this fitness machine, your brain kinda freezes. But, after some time it kinda grows on you.
It also features cup holders for your water bottles, a small interactive LCD display touchscreen. You also get a key for emergency stops.
Pros
- This compact treadmill is quite affordable
- Folding to make it easy to transport
- Running deck with an Eva shock absorption layer to minimize stress on joints
- Has speed controls on the handrails for easy accessibility
Cons
- Incline is manual
6. Proform Smart Pro 2000 Treadmill
For over 30 year, this US based brand has produced hundreds of affordable home equipment. We recently looked at Proform treadmills with iFit here and the Proform 2000 is part of this series.
The Smart Pro treadmill is the only treadmill that can hold a candle to the NordicTrack 1750 above.
They are almost the same size but the Proform 2000 is lighter by about 100 lbs. It’s also foldable. However, set aside enough space to keep it unfolded. Moving over 200 in weight is tiring.
It is available black and gray with a huge logo on the side. The colors don’t stand out and unless you are looking for a pink treadmill, we found these colors okay.
It has a user maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs, the same capacity as the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.
Running belt: Cushioning is important for runners especially if you have knee injury. This Proform treadmill is integrated with a Rebound Pro system.
The shock absorption layer helps minimize stress on joints and a noise reduction layer so you can train silently.
Pros
- Offers incline and decline function for intense workouts
- Proform treadmills are iFit enabled but can also work without the app
- Wireless heart rate monitoring and comes with a free chest strap
- The Pro is the best treadmill for home with iFit
Cons
- iFit subscription is quite costly
7. Weslo Cadence G 5.9i Treadmill
The Weslo Cadence G5.9i is an excellent training treadmill that strikes the perfect balance between performance and cost.
There is plenty to love about this home gym treadmill from tech to its sturdiness. When compared to the Goplus 2 in 1 folding treadmill and the 1750 running exercise machine, this best treadmill for home is kind of in the middle in terms of size making it best for most homes.
Many people go for a compact treadmill because it can accommodate runners of different heights which makes it best for a family.
The frame is light to move around and is foldable to save space. It allows for runners up to 275 lbs. If you need a treadmill for a crowd, the Weslo Cadence 5.9i ticks all the boxes.
Tread: Most expensive treadmills running machines struggle with the deck, but Weslo has come up with a way to keep the tread flexible without slipping.
You’ve got a wide 50 by 16″ running surface that is integrated with Comfort Cell cushioning to protect the knees and joints. The belt has the right bounce so your feet go up at the right angle immediately you hit the belt.
This running surface is powered by a 2.25 HP motor, granted this is sufficient power for intense workouts but if you want a treadmill that can handle anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes workout, you can’t go wrong with this model.
For speeds, the Weslo Cadence high quality training treadmill offers top speed of 10 mph which are sufficient for home use. You’ll like how fast this indoor treadmill adjusts the max speed. And also, there is a clip for emergency stops so you can train safely.
Pros
- Offers incline running
- Bluetooth enabled
- This best treadmill for home folds and has casters for easy portability
- Easy to bypass iFit
Cons
- Warranty is shorter than other treadmills
8. Ancheer Folding Treadmill
It’s never easy recommending a budget treadmill because every treadmill has its pros and cons.
So, when we heard about the Ancheer 3.25 treadmill that supports up to 300 lbs and costs significantly lower than most mid-sized treadmills, we were intrigued.
Made from durable material, the steel frame is built to last for years. It is coated with scratch resistant and rust resistant paint; you can workout without worrying about sweat.
Measuring about 60W by 27 wide and 49 inch high, you get a capable treadmill without all the extra high end features that come with the big treadmill.
It is designed to fold so you can store it upright on a corner.
Deck: Like all the treadmills on this list, we loved how the treadmill feels underfoot. This ancheer treadmill’s running deck is made up of 7 layers.
The layering helps reduce noise as well as provide the right amount of cushion without sacrificing performance. We were impressed by the size of the running surface; an ultra-thin 47 by 17.
Pros
- Has built-in sensors on the handgrip for pulse monitoring
- Has programs for guided workouts
- The Ancheer is the best treadmill for anyone looking for a cardio training exerciser.
Cons
- Its top speed is lower than most home treadmills on this list
How to Choose the Best Treadmill
Construction material and durability
The components of your running machine that matter are the handrails, console, belt, and the skeleton. These components should be made of steel, then your home gym treadmill will last for years.
Size
The size of the equipment dictates the size of the belt which in turn dictates who can use the treadmill. Smaller home treadmills such as the Goplus treadmills are best for short persons while larger exercisers can support even the tallest runners.
Motor capabilities
Motors range from 1 HP to about 4.5 that is for home treadmills. A 1 HP motor treadmill is okay but only supports light exercising, mostly you can use it to walk or run lightly. With 2.0 – 2.5 HP treadmills, you can also use your fitness equipment to walk or run while home treadmills with above 3.0 HP can support all types of exercises.
Running surface and speeds
The motor capacity determines the top speed of the treadmill. The best treadmills with powerful motors allow for max speed 12 mph and can sustain prolonged workouts. Treadmills with low motor power offer speeds and are ideal for lighter exercises.
Length of warranty
Make sure you get a model with a good warranty. It’s worth noting the lower the cost of the treadmill the shorter the warranty while the higher the cost the longer the warranty with some manufacturers offering lifetime warranties.
Price
Just make sure the treadmill you pick is within your budget. Also, consider the features you need before choosing a trainer.
Final Thoughts
Running machines are the go to home equipment for most runners. The modern treadmill comes with lots of high tech components, comfort features to make sure the runner is comfortable throughout the workout sessions and foldable.
Hopefully this guide will help you choose the best treadmill for you. We’ve highlighted the best features, pros and cons of these best treadmills for home, no you know what to look for when purchasing your new treadmill. Happy workouts!
Written by Alisha Wishart – TheHealthPot.com
Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), Writer and Contributor
Alisha, is a Mother, Wife and Certified Personal Trainer (CPT). She understands how demanding everyday life can be and takes great pride in working with individuals and groups to help them achieve their desired fitness goals. Read more about Alisha here.