Best Treadmills Under $1,000

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We’ve all felt the pressure of rising costs. For 2023, the cost of living adjustment will surpass any we’ve seen in the past four decades. This requires us to think harder about how we spend our hard-earned dollars. Considering US healthcare costs as a share of its gross domestic product has reached an all-time high of nearly 20%, the investment in your physical well-being is one of the smartest you can make.

The good news is you don’t have to break the bank on expensive gym memberships and pricey home gym equipment. The budget-friendly treadmills listed below earn positive customer reviews for quiet operation and quality features like two-ply tracks, 3.0 CHP motors, and even iFit technology. Build a home gym without taking out a second mortgage with one of these top treadmills under $1,000.

Keep reading to learn exactly what to look for when shopping for a budget treadmill.

How Treadmills Were Selected for This List

Each treadmill we test is carefully considered, and we take a 360-degree view of the product, leaving no stone unturned. Just a few of the important features I considered when making these selections include:

• Cost to quality ratio
• Motor size
• Weight capacity
• Roller size
• Foldability
• Deck length
• Footprint
• Warranty
• Console and training options
• Comparable products available

1. Best Overall Treadmill- Sole F63

Where to buy Sole F63 Check price at Sole Check price at Amazon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy Sole F63 $1,899 See details $1,500 See details $1,199 See details

At first glance, this treadmill is over $1,000, but don’t mark it off your list of possibilities just yet! This product goes on sale, marking it down to your price range, and this is especially true during the holidays. The Sole F63 is our top budget-friendly pick for many reasons. Even when it’s not on sale, it can be well worth the extra couple of hundred bucks.

Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you should feel pressured to compromise on quality. The last thing you want is a broken-down treadmill after a few years of use. Sole’s F63 model has a lot going for it in terms of quality construction. For starters, its 3.0 CHP motor, 2.5-inch rollers, lifetime frame warranty, and 325-lb. weight limit are all key indicators of durability. Especially if you carry a lot of weight or train aggressively, these are good signs.

New to fitness or not quite sure how to strategically combine speed and incline variables to meet your goals? The F63 treadmill offers 10 built-in programs. This means the treadmill will auto-adjust so you can focus on giving it your all during your workout.

Speaking of speed and incline, sprinters can enjoy speeds of up to 12 mph. It’s not unusual for budget treadmills to max out at 10 mph, so this is a plus. You can also mix things up with an incline grade of up to 15% to simulate hill training. If you participate in outdoor running events, this provides a more realistic training environment and increases your chances of clocking a good time in the competition.

See our in-depth review of the Sole F63 treadmill.

Key Specs

2. Best Walking Treadmill- Horizon T101

Where to buy Horizon T101 Check price at Horizon Check price at Amazon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy Horizon T101 $649 See details $821 See details $699 See details

You don’t have to run to get a great workout. Walking daily yields numerous health advantages including reduced blood pressure, lower risk of heart disease and diabetes, and even strengthened bones and muscles. The trouble is, inclement weather can quickly put a damper on your workout plan.

If you’re looking for a treadmill to use primarily for walking, you can save money by skipping on features you don’t need like a large running track and powerful motors. For less than $500, you can score an excellent product that’ll meet your needs with the Horizon T101 Treadmill.

There are plenty of great options when it comes to walking treadmills, but, when restricted to a tight budget, Horizon’s T101 makes the cut. It eliminates all the extras you don’t need to keep your costs low. There’s no fancy touchscreen, but, for daily walking, you don’t really need all that to reach your steps goal, and you do get to take advantage of 30 built-in programs. 

Another area in which you save is the short running track. The 20-inch x 55-inch tread belt wouldn’t be well-suited for runners. However, why pay extra for additional space if you only plan to walk? You’re also protected with a generous lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, longer than average in this price range.

See my in-depth review of the Horizon T101 treadmill.

Key Specs

3. Best Running Treadmill- Horizon 7.0  AT

Where to buy Horizon 7.0 AT Check price at Horizon Check price at Amazon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy Echelon Stride  $999 See details $999 See details $999 See details

Horizon has taken a clever approach to pack in all the features a runner needs including a 3.0 CHP motor, 20” x 60” running belt, 325-lb. weight limit, and 15% incline for just $999. How do they do it without major comprises in terms of quality? They’ve skipped out on the tech, instead opting for a simple, 7-inch LCD screen. If a touchscreen is what you need for a running treadmill, you’ll have to shell out more, and I’d suggest you take a look at our top running treadmills roundup.

There’s a primary combination of features that led me to pick the Horizon 7.0 AT treadmill as the best under $1,000 for runners. With its powerful motor, high weight limit, and lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, you’re set up for success in putting in the miles at the intensity levels needed for more aggressive training on a budget.

Serious runners will appreciate the Horizon 7.0 model’s mix of a 12 mph speed limit and incline of up to 15%. Not only does this allow you to run at faster speeds, but you can mix up training to include hill simulation, a huge advantage if you train for outdoor running events. I had the chance to check out the 7.8 AT model for a hands-on test, and my favorite feature was the QuickDial controls, also included on the 7.0. They make transitions in speed and incline, well, as the name implies, quick, making interval training highly effective.

On those days you don’t have time to come up with your own cardio gameplan, the 7.0’s 7-inch LCD screen includes five built-in workout programs including 5K, Calorie, Distance, Fat Burn, and Hill Climb. If a low cost is more important than advanced tech, you can’t go wrong with the Horizon 7.0 AT.

See our in-depth review of the Horizon 7.0 AT treadmill.

Key Specs

4. Best Treadmill for Seniors – ProForm City L6

Where to buy ProForm City L6 Check price at ProForm Check price at Amazon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy ProForm City L6 $599 See details $771 See details $499 See details

As a Silver Sneakers instructor, I have a lot of experience working with active older adults. If you’d like to expand your buying options specific to this category, check out my top five treadmills for seniors. Products on that list are irrespective of low cost, and one you won’t find there is the Proform City L6. That’s because it’s specifically my favorite for seniors looking to keep the budget as low as possible.

You can score the L6 treadmill for just $599, and it’s one of the best investments you can make in your health. Evidence suggests walking can go beyond physical maintenance in old age. Cognitive independence has been evidenced in those who incorporate a daily walking regimen, and having a treadmill in the home limits excuses not to be consistent.

Rather than spending extra for a large track and heavy-duty motor, the L6 treadmill allows you to save money on features you won’t need. The 1.6 HP motor paired with the 17.5” x 45” walking area provide the capacity necessary for less intensive use like walking and light jogging. You can even tap into the benefits of the iFit training app. With this optional technology, you can enjoy structured programming including Power Walking and Speed Walking plans led by world-class instructors.

See our in-depth review of the Proform City L6.

Key Specs

5. Best Space-Saving Cardio Trainer – Bowflex Max Trainer M3

Where to buy Bowflex Max Trainer M3 Check price at Amazon Where to buy Bowflex Max Trainer M3 $999 See details

All of the treadmills in this roundabout are foldable, allowing you to save a lot of space when your machine isn’t in use. If space is a considerable buying point for you, I’d encourage you to take some time to consider the Bowflex Max Trainer. No, it’s not a treadmill, but, yes, it’ll get your heart rate up and even offer unique benefits a treadmill can’t.

The Max Trainer by Bowflex gets the whole body involved by cleverly combining the heart-pumping action of a stepper with the low-impact motion elliptical machines are known for. The best part is it only takes up floorspace of 2’1” x 3”10”, saving two times the space as an average treadmill.

When using a treadmill, the arms are largely overlooked. The moving arms on the Bowflex Max Trainer M3 work like an elliptical, but they’re around 80% more effective in strengthening the arms. Furthermore, if you’re primary fitness goal is to torch calories, the Max Trainer is known to produce a higher caloric burn per workout than a treadmill.

Improved strength and higher calorie burn also come with no impact on the joints. Due to the way the steppers on the Max Trainer move, you eliminate the repetitive pounding of your feet against the belt, making this an excellent machine to use if you have painful joints or engage in prolonged sessions that can lead to knee issues.

See our in-depth review of the Bowflex Max Trainer M3.

Key Specs

6. Best Folding Treadmill – Lifespan TR1200i

Where to buy Lifespan TR1200i Check price at Lifespan Check price at Amazon Where to buy Lifespan TR1200i  $799 See details $799 See details

While all the treadmills on this list are folding treadmills, I’ve selected the TR1200i by Lifespan for our winner of the best folding treadmill on a budget for a few important reasons. Off the bat, the current pricing is a little over $1,000, but sales often put it within the budget for this roundup, and it’s got a lot going for it even if you decided to buy at full sticker price before holiday markdowns kick in.

For starters, it takes up minimal floor space. Does it take up the least floor space on this list? No, but that’s when compared with products I’ve selected to be used for walking. If a walking treadmill is what you’re looking for, you can typically expect a smaller footprint, but they often lack other features that are present with the TR1200i.

This product is compact, but it still offers a top speed of 11 mph and 0-15% incline. These variables are more demanding on the motor, and it can be more challenging to keep foldability and portability in mind whilst also including a motor capable of sustaining more challenging workouts.

When folded, the TR1200i only takes up a small rectangle of your floor space of 39” x 33”. Whether you live in a small dwelling or have a lot of other equipment in your home gym, this treadmill allows you the incredible cardio benefits without dominating the room.

Less expensive products with smaller, foldable frames often come with a lower-than-average warranty. I’m pretty impressed with Lifespan’s coverage. You’re protected with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, three years for parts, and one year for labor.

See our in-depth review of the Lifespan TR1200i..

Key Specs

7. Best Build Treadmill – Nautilus T616

Where to buy Nautilus T616 Check price at Nautilus  $899 See details

For just $899, the Nautilus T616 packs quite the punch with some features that indicate it’ll hold up over time despite a lower-than-average cost. Most notably, I’m liking the roller size on this machine. The rollers are what the running belt wraps around, and they are the most commonly broken part on a treadmill. In a nutshell, the larger the roller, the better as it creates improved grip on the belt. Many products under $1,000 feature 2” rollers, which is good, but the Nautilus T616 goes a step further at 2.5”.

There are several other indicators of good build quality in the T616. Its 300-lb. weight limit, 2-ply belt, and 10-year frame and motor warranty all fall within the limits of what are considered good durability indicators in a treadmill. All of these qualities reside on a sturdy, all-steel frame made to simulate real-world running conditions. Sure, there are other products that are comparable on this lineup, but, for the low price and consistency in checking all the durability boxes, the T616 stands apart.

Given we know the T616 is built to last, I wasn’t surprised to learn it has a max speed of 12 mph with incline up to 15%. Runners can also keep their training varied with an expansive array of 26 built-in programs to explore. This helps you target training regimens that will be the most effective in supporting your unique fitness goals. On top of that, you’re able to program up to four of your own favorite routines so you don’t have to manage the variable controls. Just hit “start” and go!

I found it refreshing that Nautilus offers a six-week satisfaction guarantee. This goes beyond the warranty and is in place to ensure you’re completely happy with your choice. If not, you can return for a full refund, no questions asked.

See our in-depth review of the Nautilus T616.

Key Specs

Want to compare these models to see which one is best for you? Try our comparison tool. To use it, just check off any treadmill you want to look at in more detail, and then click ‘compare’. Learn more about what to look for when shopping for a new home treadmill below.

What to Look for When Shopping for a Treadmill Under $1,000

When shopping for a treadmill under $1,000, you can expect machines that offer good value and some special features. It’s not so reasonable to expect all-around excellence though. Something must be sacrificed to lower the price. Whether you prioritize power, programming, or some other quality, be prepared to compromise elsewhere. Let’s take a look at some key buying factors to keep in mind as you make your decision.

Key Buying Points for Budget Treadmills

What can you expect out of a treadmill on a budget? Generally speaking, they have fewer features and less-durable build quality than what you can expect out of a more expensive product. While the old mantra “you get what you pay for” often holds true, it’s not always the case. Consumers often purchase treadmills with fancy features they never use, and that’s why roundups like these are so helpful as you can pinpoint the primary factors that matter to you. Let’s take a look at what you can expect out of a budget treadmill.

• Low-tech- If enormous touchscreens packed with options matters to you, you’ll typically have to spend more. Less pricey treadmills usually provide basic display screens, some with some built-in programming. Products with tablet holders allow you to bring tech you already have to the table.
• Inexpensive treadmills rarely have an incline setting over 12%, and most don’t provide a decline feature.
• Expect a smaller running area. Belt sizes of 20” x 55” are common in this price range.
• Finding a treadmill under $1,000 with a motor higher than 2.75 CHP can be hard to find.
• Most inexpensive treadmills fold. While this can sometimes indicate lower durability, it makes them easier to store and transport.

Assessing Low-Budget Treadmill Warranties

Treadmill warranties are good clues about product quality. Usually they cover the frame, motor, parts, and labor. Sometimes the deck, electronics, and incline motor are under warranty, too. Here’s what to expect on treadmills under $1,000:

• The best treadmills have lifetime protection on their frames and track motors.
• Look for two-year parts warranties. Shorter warranties are common in this price category, but there’s no reason to settle.
• Labor agreements on the best treadmills under $1,000 are for one year. A 90-day parts or labor warranty is a red flag.

Don’t commit to cheap treadmills with low motor warranties. The motors on these units tend to be significantly less reliable than those with lifetime guarantees. They lag when speed is changed and heat up when exercise gets intense. It’s always better to burn calories rather than wires.

Track and Rollers- The Durability Connection

On very cheap treadmills, the belt might even be so thin that it rips. A couple of signs to look out for are two-ply tracks vs. one-ply tracks and 2.5-inch track rollers instead of 1.9-inch track rollers. Those two factors will make a huge difference in expanding the longevity of your machine.

Inexpensive Treadmill Maintenance Expectations

One problem with owning very low-end treadmills is that they can be high maintenance. While more expensive treadmills can serve for years without belt maintenance, a cheap treadmill will require belt lubrication – waxing or oiling – every few months. A cheap tread belt will likely also need occasional adjustment because its material will stretch with use.

Cheap Treadmills and Noise Concerns

Another potential problem with very cheap treadmills is noisiness. Ideally, a home treadmill has a quiet motor, a quietly-moving track, and good sound absorption for footfall on the deck. Very cheap treadmills don’t necessarily meet these criteria. Other potential drawbacks include rickety frames, low horsepower, low top speeds, small tracks, poor electronics, and the absence of wireless heart monitoring. Avoid these problems! Stick to our list of treadmill recommendations above, and make sure to read honest product reviews of any treadmills that you consider.

Who Should Spend More on a Treadmill?

Most home treadmill shoppers will be satisfied with a trainer valued at roughly $999. The exceptions are shoppers expecting their treadmills to get heavy use from user weight, workout intensity, or workout frequency. The best treadmills under $1,000 typically have maximum user weight capacities of 300 pounds.

A person weighing 225 pounds or more will get better value from a treadmill with a higher weight capacity. The machine will likely last longer without acting up, because it won’t work as closely to maximum capacity. Investing in a better treadmill is also a good idea if the machine will be used for running rather than walking and regularly rather than infrequently.

Find Your New Home Treadmill

There’s no shortage of treadmills to choose from, and many of those fall within your budget of under $1,000. This doesn’t mean they’re all going to meet your needs, and a lot of them are severely compromised when it comes to quality. The products selected for this list were carefully vetted, and we give them our seal of approval based on targeted buying points. Check out our best treadmills of the year to explore a wide range of balanced treadmills along with some more guidance on choosing the right machine for your workout needs.

Additional Treadmill Resources

• How to Fix Common Treadmill Problems
• Treadmill Motors: What You Need to Know
• List of Treadmill Brands
• List of Treadmills
• Treadmil Buyer’s Guide
• History of The Treadmill

Recent Updates

November 8, 2022: Added new products with awards. Updated template. Added FAQs. Expanded buyer’s guide. Added key specs and interlinks to useful resources.