Best Treadmills Under $1,500

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Treadmill

The most popular price bracket for home treadmills is $1,000 to $1,500. This midrange includes options that surpass cheaper alternatives in terms of quality without breaking the bank. With plenty of choices in this price range featuring sturdy frames, sufficient power for the typical athlete, and an appealing collection of electronics, this roundup will help you narrow down your options based on more specific needs. 

If you’re ready to incorporate a best seller from a leading brand between the price point of $1,000 and $1,499, keep reading to see which of our top picks of the five best treadmills under $1,500 would be most compatible.

TOP BY CATEGORY

Best Overall Treadmill Under $1,500 – NordicTrack EXP 7i
Best Budget Pick – Horizon 7.0 AT
Best Build Quality Treadmill Under $1,500 – Sole F63
Best Treadmill Under $1,500 for Walkers – ProForm City L6
Honorable Mention – Horizon 7.4 AT

1. BEST OVERALL TREADMILL Under $1,500 – NordicTrack EXP 7i

Where to buy NordicTrack EXP 7i
Where to buy NordicTrack EXP 7i

The NordicTrack EXP 7i is a terrific treadmill I’ve had in my home for over a year now and given its new upgrades for 2023 certainly earned a spot as our best overall treadmill under $1,500. The 7-inch HD touchscreen now comes with a tilt and pivot function making the unit so much more usable. I’ve had no issues whatsoever with the screen size and visibility while using it with iFit, and you can always bring your own tablet if you’d like thanks to the integrated media shelf. 

Whether you’re a walker, runner, or somewhere in-between, the NordicTrack EXP 7i is built to meet the demand with a 2.6 CHP Mach Z motor. Speed ranges from 0-10 mph and adding resistance with incline can go a long way in building muscles without all the extra equipment. Equipped with a 20- by 55-inch tread belt, this really isn’t your pick for marathon training unless you’re under 5’10” tall. That said, it’s a great unit for HIIT workouts involving hiking, walking, and even hard jogging. In terms of workout programs, this treadmill comes iFit-ready with automatic trainer control. A separate SmartBeat heart rate monitor can be purchased with the treadmill to use in conjunct with an iFit membership. Measuring only 70.8″ x 34.9″ x 59.7″ this folding treadmill still supports up to 300 pounds of user weight and won’t take up much room in your home.

Have you ever noticed you can give your workout just a little more effort when your favorite song comes on? With the NordicTrack EXP 7i’s impressive audio system, you can get the most out of every sweat session. The dual 2-inch speakers and audio auxiliary port allow you a custom experience. Whether you’re in the mood for your favorite running playlist or motivational coaching, this audio system has you covered. See our detailed review of the NordicTrack EXP 7i.

 

ProsCons
  • Tilt-pivot screen
  • iFit Enabled
  • Bluetooth-enabled
  • Slow customer service

KEY SPECS

Motor2.6 CHP Motor
Incline12%
Running Area20″ x 55″
FoldingYes
Top Speed10 MPH
Weight Capacity300 LBS
Dimensions70.8″ L x 34.9″ W x 59.7″ H
Screen7″ Tilt-Pivot Smart HD Touchscreen
Warranty10-year frame/motor/deck, 2-year electronics/parts, 1-year labor

2. BEST BUDGET PICK – HORIZON 7.0 AT

Horizon 7.0 AT Best Budget Pick Under $1,500
Where to buy Horizon 7.0 AT
Where to buy Horizon 7.0 AT

Are you a serious runner who wants a quality product at a great price without having to worry about poor construction? Look no further than Horizon Fitness and the 7.0 AT. This model eliminates all the unneeded extras that often do more to keep companies competitive than to keep you fit. It provides plenty of options for a challenging workout, great connectivity, and is built with the quality needed to keep up with heavy use. 

It’s important to do your homework before you buy, which is why you’re reading this now. Where other products in this price range take shortcuts that reduce durability, there are three main features the Horizon 7.0 AT has working in its favor that indicate it should pass the test of time:

  • Steel frame for a sturdy foundation
  • A powerful 3.0 CHP motor
  • Lifetime warranty

Whether tall, short, or somewhere in-between, the 60-inch running deck and shock absorption system provide the space you need for a long stride to get the endorphins flowing. Horizon Fitness also affords users great workout programs. See our detailed review of the Horizon 7.0 AT.

Pro Buyer’s Tip: Sometimes, the Horizon 7.4 AT goes on sale for under $1,500. It’s definitely worth checking, especially if you’d like to take advantage of a 3.5 CHP motor and even more running space. 

ProsCons
  • Great price
  • Excellent speed range
  • Spacious running deck
  • No touchscreen

KEY SPECS

Motor3.0 CHP Motor
Incline0 — 15%
Running Area20″ x 60″
FoldingYes
Top Speed12 MPH
Weight Capacity325 LBS
Dimensions76.5″ L x 36″ W x 59″ H
Screen7″ LCD screen
WarrantyLifetime frame/motor, 3-year parts, 1-year labor


3. BEST BUILD QUALITY TREADMILL UNDER $1,500 – SOLE F63

Where to buy Sole F63
Where to buy Sole F63

You get what you pay for, and, in many circumstances, when you buy a treadmill under $1,500, the low price comes with a quality compromise. With the Sole F63, not only are you getting a very inexpensive treadmill, but you’re getting one that will stand the test of time. This is largely due to the fact that Sole skips many of the often gimmicky extras thrown in to set the manufacturers apart. Rather, their F63 model focuses on the features that really matter like advanced cushioning, large track rollers, and a heavy-duty motor. Maximum user weight is a whopping 325 pounds.

Although you don’t get all the bells and whistles, the Sole F63 still offers an expansive range of incline from 0-15% and 10 preset workouts that make it easier to reach your fitness goals. If you’re training for a competition or otherwise need a specific regimen, you can also enjoy two user-defined workouts. Best of all, the 6.5-inch LCD screen tells you everything you need to know to push your own limits. See our detailed review of the Sole F63.

ProsCons
  • High-quality construction
  • Roomy track
  • 10 built-in training program
  • Fewer special features
  • Slow acceleration

KEY SPECS

Motor3.0 CHP Motor
Incline0 — 15%
Running Area20″ x 60″
FoldingYes
Top Speed12 MPH
Weight Capacity325 LBS
Dimensions82″ L x 35″ W x 66″ H
Screen6.5″ LCD Screen
WarrantyLifetime frame/motor, 3-year parts/deck/electronics, 1-year labor

4. BEST TREADMILL UNDER $1,500 FOR WALKERS – PROFORM CITY L6

Where to buy ProForm City L6
Where to buy ProForm City L6

Do you plan to use your treadmill primarily for walking? In that case, there’s no sense paying more than you have to for extra space and features you won’t be using. With the ProForm City L6, you get exactly what you need. Even though it’s under $1,500, this model keeps things simple with:

  • Top running speed of 8 MPH, more than enough for the walker/jogger
  • Zero incline, keeping costs low
  • Small running deck, great for saving space

You get what you need at a price you can afford while maintaining an uncluttered aesthetic in your home gym since the ProForm City L6 Treadmill delivers a minimal footprint. Depending on the latest deals, you can score this sleek treadmill for around $600-$700, and it easily slides under your bed or into the closet when not in use. It may only weigh 125 pounds, but that doesn’t mean it has a weak load capacity. It’s capable of supporting up to 250 pounds, and ProShox Cushioning reduces impact on the joints to make every workout as smooth as possible. 

When you purchase your ProForm City L6 treadmill, you automatically get a one-year Family Membership with iFit, a value of nearly $500 free just for being a customer. If that’s not your thing, the unit features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to try out other fitness apps with your tablet that can be placed in the convenient tablet holder. 

The ProForm City L6 is the perfect fit for busy folks who doesn’t have a whole lot of space in their home and want to do their cardio without fighting the crowd at the gym. The 5″ touchscreen display also affords users great interactive training options via iFit. It comes at a fraction of the cost of comparable products and slips away seamlessly when you’re finished using it. See our detailed review of the ProForm City L6.

ProsCons
  • Simple to store
  • iFit coaching
  • Small running track perfect for walking
  • Must use your own tablet
  • No Incline
  • Low top speed (8mph)

KEY SPECS

Motor1.6 CHP Motor
Inclinen/a
Running Area17.5″ x 45″
FoldingYes
Top Speed8 MPH
Weight Capacity250 LBS
Dimensions70.25″ L x 29″ W x 44.5″ H
Screen5″ Display
Warranty10-year frame, 1-year parts/labor

5. HONORABLE MENTION – Horizon 7.4 AT

TreadmillReviews Editor Jessica Using Horizon 7.4 AT
Where to buy Horizon 7.4 AT
Where to buy Horizon 7.4 AT

Okay, the Horizon 7.4 AT for 2023 is priced at down to $1,599 from it’s regular $2,399, so it’s an Honorable Mention on this list. But if you’re looking for a top bang for your buck, this is it at that price. Are you training for a long-distance competition? Maybe you carry a lot of weight and worry cheaper products won’t be able to support you. If you’re willing to invest an extra hundred bucks, the Horizon 7.4 AT is a product you’ll definitely want to check out. 

A Bluetooth-enabled unit, you’ll have access to virtual training options unending as Horizon doesn’t lock you into one app. You also get the benefit of the Horizon Treadmill’s motors which feature a digital drive system capable of 500 pounds worth of thrust. The Horizon motors don’t quit, and that’s why they carry a lifetime warranty, same as the deck. This deck measures 22″ x 60″ so you get all the room you’ll need for running. With a speed range up to 12mph and incline up to 15% there’s just not much you can’t do here. 

  • Bluetooth compatibility that lets you transfer your data to your smart device
  • 10 Built-in workout programs
  • An accessory tray
  • Integrated tablet holder
  • Maximum user weight of 350 pounds
  • USB charging port

The Horizon 7.4 AT periodically goes on and off sale, so it may be in your budget. See our detailed review of the unit here.

ProsCons
  • Lifetime warranty on deck and motor
  • 10 preset workouts
  • Bluetooth-enabled
  • Price special may be temporary

KEY SPECS

Motor3.5 CHP Motor
Incline0 — 15%
Running Area22″ x 60″
FoldingYes
Top Speed12 MPH
Weight Capacity350 LBS
Dimensions76″ L x 37″ W x 63″ H
Screen8.25″ LCD Screen
WarrantyLifetime frame/motor/deck, 5-year electronics/parts, 2-year labor

Torn between a few models in this roundup? Try out our convenient comparison tool. It’s simple. Just select any treadmill you want to learn more about, and click ‘compare’.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN SHOPPING FOR A TREADMILL UNDER $1,500

WHAT IS YOUR LONG TERM BUDGET?

Throughout the course of this roundup, we took a look at some quality products. However, when they’re less than $1,500, they often lack extra features. If a lower cost is more important to you than accessories, this could very well be the way to go. However, they also sometimes have lower weight limits and less horsepower. 

For people who don’t weigh much or use their treadmill primarily for walking or jogging, it wouldn’t make sense to spend more for features you don’t need. However, if you’re looking for a product capable of providing long-lasting use for the hardcore athlete, it can be worth it to make a larger investment. Before committing to a treadmill under $1,500, consider whether your usage and body composition would necessitate a larger investment. 

WHAT WARRANTY SHOULD I EXPECT IN A TREADMILL UNDER $1,500?

Make sure the lower price doesn’t come at the cost of a compromised warranty. In the $1,500 price range, you should still expect a warranty of at least 10 years for the frame. The motor with all its working parts is one of the more likely components to fail, and many manufacturers will overshadow a short motor warranty with a great frame warranty. Your motor warranty should be at least five years. Finally, look for a warranty on parts and labor of at least one year. 

HOW’S THE QUALITY OF FOLDING TREADMILLS?

Folding treadmills are excellent for home use when there is little space as they can be easily stored when not in use. They are often much less expensive than their non-folding counterparts. Overall, they could be a great fit. Just make sure they are of quality construction if you plan to use it for more than walking and light jogging. Features like a short running belt and the use of lightweight materials in construction are better suited for walking.

Recent Updates

June 22, 2021: Numerous specs have been updated for accuracy and to reflect changes made for 2021 models.

October 19, 2022: Updated pictures from hands-on reviews as well as specs.

June 13, 2023: Updated rankings and specs.

Best Treadmill Under $1,500 FAQs

WHAT IS THE BEST TREADMILL UNDER $1,500?

Our experts recommend the ProForm Pro 2000 as the best treadmill under $1,500 currently on the market. For a low price, you get access to excellent features and quality construction. Learn more in our full description above.

ARE CHEAP TREADMILLS WORTH BUYING?

We have detailed some high-quality products. Some are geared toward the runner who values fitness over features, so a cheaper price tag might indicate fewer extras with quality construction. Others have a low weight capacity for the lightweight runner who doesn’t need to spend extra for a product that can support 375+ pounds. With that being said, sometimes a low cost means low quality. Key indicators to look out for are warranties on parts and labor of less than one year and motors indicating “horsepower” rather than “continuous horsepower”.

ARE FOLDING TREADMILLS HARD TO STORE?

Folding treadmills typically come with detailed instructions. As with any new product, it may take a few times to get good at it, but you should get to the point of being able to store most foldable treadmills quickly and easily.

ARE DISCONTINUED MODELS WORTH CONSIDERING?

Yes. While we only included treadmills still in production for this review, there are a number of great models still available at online retailers for a discounted price. Manufacturers routinely upgrade models, just like cars, and sometimes an older model is a great investment. Be sure to check the warranty and make sure it's still supported by the brand.

DOES THE PRICE OF A TREADMILL CORRELATE WITH QUALITY?

Not at all. Typically the price is reflective of the motor and screen size. Overall size of the unit can also be a factor.