The 7 Best Treadmills of 2023

Best Overall Treadmill

NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Belt Dimensions: 60" L x 21.5" W | Speed Range: 0-12 mph

The latest version of the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 has a sleek, modern design. It quickly became one of our favorite treadmills for the quality workout it provides and the unique immersive training experience of the iFit app. Boasting a big 60" x 21.5" tread surface and belt speeds up to 12 mph; it can easily handle everything from walking to serious indoor training without restricting stride length and less fear of accidentally catching the side rails. The tread deck has Runners Flex cushioning for added comfort, with an incline up to 15% and a decline down to -3% for hill workouts and to simulate the terrain in the iFit videos. The swiveling console features a 14-inch HD touchscreen to select and view iFit workouts. You can easily do manually controlled workouts, but the highlight is the iFit app, which offers a unique style of trainer-led scenic videos that depart from the competition's studio-style programs. The engaging and motivating trainers lead you on runs, walks, and hikes in beautiful locations all over the world, and the AutoAdjust feature changes speed and incline based on the terrain in the video and prompts from the trainer for an immersive experience that makes you almost feel like you're there. There are thousands of videos to choose from with all the variety you could ever need, with different instructors, types of workouts, landscapes, music, and durations. The console also features quality speakers, quick jump speed and incline buttons, an adjustable cooling fan, and bottle holders to help you stay hydrated. The screen also swivels to optimize it for viewing the wealth of off-treadmill workouts on the iFit app.

One of our biggest gripes with the Commercial 1750 is the ergonomics of the controls. The speed and incline adjustment buttons aren't as user-friendly or easy to reach while running as other models with them on the side handrails. Of course, this doesn't matter as much when using iFit and its AutoAdjust feature, but it's notable nonetheless. Though not overly difficult, the assembly process was also quite involved and time-consuming. It's also one of the biggest and heaviest models we tested. It isn't easy to move around once assembled, and it takes up quite a bit of space, even with the deck folded up for storage. Regardless, if you've got room for it, this is an excellent option for any fitness level or training program and a great way to experience the immersive workouts of the iFit app.

Read more: NordicTrack Commercial 1750 review

Best App Free Treadmill

Horizon 7.4 AT

Belt Dimensions: 60" L x 22" W | Speed Range: 0.5-12 mph

The Horizon 7.4 AT is a gym-quality treadmill that leaves entertainment to the user, but that doesn't mean it's tech-free. Users needn't rely on a particular app; they can connect to any app they wish using the machine's Bluetooth FTMS or go without; there are no monthly fees built into this treadmill. The huge 60" x 22" silicon belt sits atop a 3-zone variable cushioning deck that flexes like a running shoe beneath your stride. The unique rolling control wheels are highlights of this machine and are amongst the most intuitive we've tested. The console is clean, well laid out, and underwhelming; it displays relevant information but little more. Centrally, there are high and low holders for a tablet, while speakers and water bottle holders populate both sides of the console. Assembly was involved, and its footprint is large, so we'd recommend having a permanent and dedicated place to set this treadmill up.

With a 350-pound weight limit, the Horizon feels solid and well built, yet the deck is still quite compliant for our testers that weigh less than half of that. Incline, decline, and speed changes happen faster than on other machines, thanks to a powerful 3.5 CHP motor. Getting to the maximum 14.77% measured incline happens quickly, even with the deck at weight capacity. The long, 60" deck is perfect for long strides, sprints, or hard intervals and will please even die-hard runners. This treadmill is perfect for runners wanting to commit to indoor running, not a monthly app subscription.

Read more: Horizon 7.4 AT review

Best Under desk treadmill

UREVO 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill

Belt Dimensions: 42.5" L x 16.75" W | Speed Range: 0.6-7.5 mph

The UREVO 2-in-1 treadmill is impressively convenient. It requires no assembly; it starts in seconds, and its stores easily. The 2-in-1 treadmill can be used to jog with the handrail folded up and under a desk or standalone as a walking treadmill with its handrail down. In its walk mode, the speed range is from 0.6 to 3.8 mph and is controlled via remote. In its run mode, the speed range is 3.8 to 7.6 mph allowing for a fairly brisk run. The UREVO is incredibly compact in walk mode, easily allowing under-desk use or the ability to store it in a small place. There are wheels on the front that facilitate rolling it when tilted, but it's light enough to carry. Its small LED screen at the front of the tread belt displays elapsed time, distance, speed, and an estimate of calories burned. The handrail has a fold-out phone holder and simple controls to change speeds and start or stop a workout. It's amongst the quietest treadmills we've tested, especially at walking speeds, yet powerful enough to run and boasts a 265 lb weight limit.

While convenient and storable, there are some tradeoffs. Its smaller tread deck will accommodate running, but users must focus on their stride to stay atop the 42.5" by 16.75" surface. The handrail features a phone holder, which is a nice feature, but it's also a bit floppy, making a small phone screen hard to focus on. If your needs are more than 80 percent walking and under-desk compatibility is an important feature, the UREVO is an absolute winner. We loved how easy it was to move, store and initiate a workout.

Read more: UREVO 2-in-1 treadmill review

Best Bang for Your Buck

XTerra Fitness TRX3500

Belt Dimensions: 60" L x 20" W | Speed Range: 0.5-12 mph

The XTerra Fitness TRX3500 is a moderately priced option that impressed us with its exercise quality and connected features. Its 60" x 20" belt allows for easy strides with less chance of snagging the edge. It is suitable for folks of all fitness levels due to the wide speed range of 0.5-12 mph, allowing both 5-minute milers and casual walkers to hit their stride. Incline adjusts with the push of a button with 12 levels from 0-12%. You can do targeted heart rate training with the built-in heart rate sensors, including 30 programmed workouts. Whether on a manual or pre-programmed workout, the display includes all the data you need on a brightly lit, easy-to-read, 6.5-inch blue backlit screen. The controls are intuitive, with quick-jump speed, incline buttons on the console, and easy-to-reach handrail-mounted adjustment buttons. The XTerra features Bluetooth FTMS connectivity to sync to apps like Zwift, Peloton, Runkeeper, and Strava (paid subscriptions required) through your device for interactive, live streaming, or on-demand workouts and activity tracking. The console's multiple add-on features include an integrated fan, device shelf, auxiliary input, speakers, and dual bottle/cup holders to enhance your workout session. The running deck has XTRA Soft cushioning and a lift-assist and soft-drop feature for easier folding and unfolding. The TRX3500 is also impressively sturdy and stable, with robust construction and a user weight limit of 350 lbs.

The assembly of this treadmill was quite involved. The instructions are well-detailed, and all the necessary tools are included, but it still takes a fair amount of time (it took us about an hour), and several steps require an extra set of hands. The TRX3500 is also quite large and heavy. We recommend putting it together in the location where you'll use it because moving it once assembled can be a pain. Though the running deck folds up when not in use, it still takes up significant space. However, if you've got room to spare, the XTerra TRX3500 is an excellent treadmill that will help take your home workouts to the next level without breaking the bank.

Read more: XTerra Fitness TRX3500 review

Best for Serious Runners

Bowflex Treadmill 22

Belt Dimensions: 60" L x 22" W | Speed Range: 0-12 mph

The Treadmill 22 is a fully-featured high-end treadmill with all the bells and whistles. It has a large 60" x 22" running surface that offers ample space for long strides and running at any speed. A 12 mph top speed and smooth-rolling belt is suitable for power walking, endurance runs, high-intensity intervals, and everything in between. This sturdy model boasts a 400-pound weight limit and the tread deck features Comfort Tech cushioning that does a fine job of absorbing impact, with a decline to -5% and incline of up to 20% to simulate glute busting climbs and moderate downhills. A 22-inch HD touchscreen is the main interface for choosing workouts through the JRNY app and viewing them while you work out. Well-placed speed and incline controls on the handrails, the extended handlebar grips, and quick jump buttons on the lower console make them easy to adjust, even while running. The JRNY app is more affordable than other competitors. While it isn't the most impressive, it offers a variety of studio-style classes, virtual coach programs, Explore the World scenic runs and many off-treadmill workouts for total body fitness. One unique aspect of the JRNY app is that you can stream your favorite entertainment from popular services like Hulu, Netflix, HBO Max, and more through the screen (subscriptions required), and it works with third-party training apps like Zwift through your device. We love the versatility of this platform and the options it provides. It also has features like a heart rate armband, a small cooling fan, a USB charging port, front-facing speakers, and plenty of places to keep things at arm's reach.

The Treadmill 22 is the largest and heaviest model we tested, and it is best suited to a dedicated workout space. The tread deck folds up to reduce its footprint by about half, but it's still a sizeable machine. Assembling it isn't particularly difficult, but it is quite time-consuming, and once it's assembled, moving it around is certainly no easy task. It's also quite expensive, and while it is the best we tested, it may be more than many people need. If you take indoor training seriously, the Treadmill 22 is the way to go.

Read more: Bowflex Treadmill 22 review

Best for Storability

Echelon Stride

Belt Dimensions: 55" L x 20" W | Speed Range: 0.5-12 mph

The Echelon Stride is a compelling option for those who prioritize storability and don't want to sacrifice too much in performance. Apartment dwellers or those short on home workout space will most appreciate this model's impressive ability to fold down to just 10 inches thick so it can be leaned against a wall or slid under a bed when not in use. It comes pretty much ready to use in the box, and it is quick and easy to fold the console, handrail, and support arms up or down, and two sets of transport wheels allow you to roll it fore/aft and side to side. It also has a safety strap to secure it to your wall if you store it vertically. Of course, it does make some minor compromises in trade for its storable convenience, but it's still capable of providing a solid workout. Considering its lighter weight and compact folded dimensions, it still boasts a sizeable 55" x 20" tread surface, up to 10% incline, and a top speed of 12 mph. The tread surface is somewhat limiting compared to the largest we tested, but we still felt comfortable doing sprints, high-intensity intervals, and endurance runs. It has a wide console that shows all your in-workout metrics in large bright numbers with quick jump speed, incline buttons, and easy-to-reach handrail-mounted controls. The Stride is designed to work with the Echelon app when paired with your tablet or smartphone through Bluetooth, and a device shelf/holder makes it easy to view. The Echelon app consists primarily of studio-style workouts with daily live classes and thousands of on-demand videos. A huge variety of class types, music genres, and durations are offered with engaging instructors to keep you motivated.

While it has a 300-pound weight limit, the Stride doesn't feel as sturdy as models that weigh roughly twice as much. The tread deck is relatively thin, it doesn't offer the same cushioned feel, and the incline adjustment is limited to 10%. Those with particularly long strides may feel limited by the 55-inch tread length, and serious runners looking to do intense endurance or speed training sessions might be better off looking elsewhere. This unique model should still suitmost people's needs, particularly those who value its impressive storability.

Read more: Echelon Stride review

Best on a Tight Budget

Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 Folding Treadmill

Belt Dimensions: 49" L x 15.5" W | Speed Range: 0.5-9 mph

The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 Folding Treadmill presents a solid value for those on a tight budget. Although this affordable model may not include all the bells and whistles of its pricier competition, it can still provide a great workout. The tread surface is 49" x 15.5", and the speed ranges from 0.5-9 mph, suitable for walking and light running workouts. There are three levels of manually adjustable incline and nine pre-programmed workouts. The console has quick-jump speed buttons, program, mode, and start/stop buttons, and the handrails have extra buttons for adjusting belt speed or starting/stopping more conveniently. A bright LCD screen indicates time, speed, distance, calories burned, and heart rate (when using the heart rate sensors on the handles). You can also select time, distance, or calorie goals for a manual workout. The console features two water bottle holders and a device shelf for a phone or tablet, so everything you need can stay within arm's reach. If space is limited, the SF-T4400's belt can fold up or down easily via a soft-drop system, and there are transport wheels to make moving it around less strenuous.

This model has no connectivity, so you are limited to manual or programmed workouts on the machine. The tread surface is relatively narrow, just 15.5" wide, so attention is required to avoid stepping on the side rails while running. We found this option works best for walking and running at slower speeds. While it is nice to have three manually adjustable incline levels, the need to adjust it by hand means that doing any hill workout is a complicated process. There is also a weight limit of 220 lbs. Despite these issues, this option is good and affordable for walkers or moderate-pace runners.

Read more: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 Folding Treadmill review

Best Walking Treadmill for Limited Space

Goplus SuperFit 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill

Belt Dimensions: 40" L x 16" W | Speed Range: 1-12 km/h (0.6-7.5 mph)

The Goplus SuperFit 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill is an impressively compact and convenient 2-in-1 treadmill. It can be used with the handrail folded down as a walking treadmill or in the upright position as a light jogging treadmill. In walk mode, it has a speed range of 1-4 km/h and can be used anywhere, including under a desk in your home office. In run mode, the speed range increases to 1-12 km/h (7.5 mph max), making it capable of moderate running speeds. The handrail has a quick-release lever, so switching between modes is fairly easy. The SuperFit is slim and small, with the handrail folded down, easily tucked away under a couch, bed, or closet when not in use. Its integrated transport wheels and smaller size and weight make it easier to move around than the competition. Its small LED screen at the front of the tread belt displays time, distance, speed, and calories burned. The handrail has no controls; instead, it uses a small handheld remote to change speed and start/stop a workout. It also has a small Bluetooth speaker and a phone holder to listen to music while exercising. Despite its diminutive size, the SuperFit has a weight limit of 265 lbs.

While it is very convenient and storable, this treadmill is not without faults. The 40" x 16" belt surface is the shortest of all the tested models. The belt's size limits it to walking and light jogging with a relatively short stride and moderate speeds. Taller users, those with a long stride, or anyone who wants to run fast will quickly find its limitations. The folding handrail is a nice feature, but if you attach the handles to it, you must remove them to fold it into the down position, which requires a tool and is somewhat inconvenient. Additionally, the display only provides speed and distance information in km/h and kilometers and can't be changed, which can be confusing for those unaccustomed to the metric system. Otherwise, the SuperFit is a good option for users who value convenience, versatility, and storability for walking and light jogging.

Read more: Goplus SuperFit 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill review

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	84	Bowflex Treadmill 22	$2,700
	82	NordicTrack Commercial 1750	$2,299
	81	Horizon 7.4 AT	$2,399
	80	Peloton Tread	$3,495
	75	Echelon Stride	$1,300
	71	XTerra Fitness TRX3500	$1,300
	67	NordicTrack T6.5 S	$799
	63	UREVO 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill	$479
	60	Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 Folding Treadmill	$400
	51	Goplus SuperFit 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill	$400

Why You Should Trust Us

After researching the most popular and highly regarded treadmills, we purchased 9 for testing. At GearLab, we don't just regurgitate manufacturer's specs and consumer reviews; we rigorously test each product to identify their strengths and weaknesses for ourselves. We handled each treadmill from unboxing to extensive in-house testing and hours of use, and we even took our own measurements.

To determine the best treadmills in our test group, we operated each contender over the course of several months with walks and runs of varying lengths and intensities. While testing, we analyzed the controls and consoles, touchscreens, companion apps, features, ease of use, and the quality of each model's exercise experience. We compared notes at the end of our test period and zeroed in on our favorites.

Our testing of treadmills is divided across five rating metrics:

• Exercise Quality (35% of overall score weighting)

• Ease of Use (25% weighting)

• Features (15% weighting)

• Assembly (10% weighting)

• Storability (10% weighting)

• Noise Level (5% weighting)

Our treadmill review was led by our Senior Mountain Bike Review Editor, Jeremy Benson. Despite an addiction to long rides on two wheels, Benson mixes his fitness routine up with weekly trail runs and has been known to jump into the occasional 10k running race. His home gym includes a treadmill, which he uses during the long winter months to stay fit and break up the monotony of skiing every day. Former GearLab review editor and photographer Laura Casner also tested and provided feedback for this review. Casner is a seasoned marathon and ultra-marathon runner. While working in the running industry in NYC, she began road running and racing marathons. In 2010 she qualified for the Boston Marathon but quickly traded city streets for trails after running her first of many ultra-marathons. Laura has supplemented her outdoor training with indoor workouts on treadmills at home, commercial gyms, and hotels for over a decade.

Analysis and Test Results

We focused on several key performance attributes to compare the treadmills in this review. We analyzed each model for exercise quality, user interface/ease of use, features, ease of assembly, storability, and noise level to determine the best and rank the lineup.

Value

The treadmills we purchased for this review span a wide range of prices. Modern commercial-quality treadmills with integrated touchscreens, connected features, and companion apps can be expensive. Price and performance often go hand in hand, as with higher-end models like the Bowflex Treadmill 22, NordicTrack Commercial 1750, and Peloton Tread, but you don't have to spend a fortune to get a great workout at home. The XTerra Fitness TRX3500 proved an excellent option despite being roughly half the price. It lacks a touchscreen, but it offers competitive performance thanks to its large tread surface, 12 mph top speed, 30 programs workouts, and FTMS Bluetooth capabilities that make it compatible with third-party training apps. If you're on an even tighter budget, the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 is even more affordable and can get the calories burning, though with its lower maximum speed and small tread surface, it is best suited to walking and light jogging — but that may be all that many folks need.

Exercise Quality

Since exercising is the primary objective when using a treadmill, the quality of the exercise experience is the most important element of its performance. Therefore, results from this test metric make up 35% of a product's overall score. Our analysis of exercise quality is multi-faceted. It includes objective measures like the dimensions of the running surface, speed range, program workouts, and incline levels. It also includes the quality and smoothness of the belt at various speeds, deck cushioning, the difficulty of the workout programs, and connected features and companion apps. Collectively, these elements play a role in the overall quality of the exercise experience.

The Bowflex Treadmill 22 took top honors in this metric with a huge 60" x 22" running surface and 12 mph top speed, with a -5% decline to +20% incline to simulate steep hills and moderate descents. The deck is well cushioned, and this sturdy contender has an impressive 400-pound weight limit. No matter your fitness level or training goals, this machine can handle it. The 22-inch HD touchscreen integrates with the JRNY app for studio-style classes, adaptive virtual coach workouts, and scenic runs; plus, it has the unique ability to stream your favorite entertainment and work with third-party training apps. This flexibility lets you choose the exercise experience that best suits your needs.

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 came in a close second in this metric. Serious runners will appreciate the large 60" x 21.5" tread surface and 12 mph top speed, and the -3% decline to 15% incline adjustment range. The swiveling console is home to a 14-inch HD touchscreen. It integrates with the popular iFit app for a unique, immersive training experience, or it can be operated manually for any workout you want. The Peloton Tread also provides an impressive workout. This sleek treadmill has a deceptively large 59-inch by 20-inch wide running surface, 12.5 mph top speed, and an adjustable incline of up to 12.5%. The impressive 23.8-inch HD touchscreen seamlessly integrates with the Peloton app, and speed and incline changes are incredibly easy with the unique adjustment knobs.

The XTerra TRX3500 has a 60" x 20" tread surface that won't limit your stride, and the 0.5-12 mph speed range ensures you can run as fast as you want. It also has 12 levels of auto incline from 0-12%, along with 30 included workouts that automatically adjust belt speed and incline as you go. Its Bluetooth connectivity is one of its best features and allows you to use various workout apps for interactive, on-demand studio workouts or fitness tracking. Despite its impressive size, the Echelon Stride still scores well here. It still boasts a 12 mph top speed, and while the 55" x 20" running surface isn't the biggest, we found it to be adequate in most situations. It wouldn't be our recommendation for super serious runners, but it still provides a solid workout, especially considering its storable convenience.

Connectivity/Companion App

These days, many treadmills come with integrated touchscreens or are Bluetooth enabled to pair with devices for use with companion apps or other third-party training apps. Whether for motivation or distraction, the exercise experience that an app provides may be just as important as the treadmill itself for many users. In contrast, others with a regimented training program may not want or need them. Most of these apps are not free, but most cost less than a monthly gym membership and can often provide a greater value given the ability to use them at your convenience in the privacy of your own home. Most apps have a wide variety of class types, music genres, class durations, and instructors. In addition to treadmill workouts, they include off-treadmill exercises for total body fitness. Think of it like having an entire personal training staff at your disposal. These apps are all somewhat different, of course, and personal preferences vary, so we judged the models we tested more on their ability to integrate with them rather than the apps' quality.

We tested several models designed specifically to work with their companion apps, and we tested each with its respective app. Most treadmills can also be used without the apps. However, their functionality is more limited, and realistically, the point of getting a fancy connected treadmill for most people is for the connected experience they provide. All of these apps have an ongoing monthly or yearly cost to consider, , and range in price from $20 to $44 a month, with some giving a slight discount when billed annually. The screen-equipped models, like the Bowflex Treadmill 22, NordicTrack Commercial 1750, and Peloton Tread, use WiFi to connect to their apps, while the connected models without screens, like the Echelon Stride, NordicTrack T6.5 S, and XTerra Fitness TRX3500, use Bluetooth to connect to an app through your tablet or smartphone. During testing, we used iFit, Echelon, Peloton, JRNY, and Zwift.

User Interface/Ease of Use

If a treadmill is user-friendly, there's a greater chance you'll use it and enjoy the experience. Each model's screen/display and controls play a large role in their ease of use and overall performance. Whether starting a manual workout or navigating an app to choose a workout, each model has its subtleties. Fortunately, the treadmills in this review are all relatively easy to use. Results from this test metric hold a 25% weighting of a product's overall score.

Not surprisingly, the touchscreen-equipped models scored the highest in this metric. The Peloton Tread impressed us the most with its quality 23.8-inch HD touchscreen and excellent, unique controls. With excellent resolution, color, and touch sensitivity, navigating the Peloton app is straightforward, and it almost feels like you're in the studio with the instructors. Front-facing speakers and rear-facing woofers provide the audio, or you can pair wireless headphones or earbuds and heart sensors through the screen. The handrail-mounted knobs for speed and incline are easy to reach while running and make adjustments very straightforward.

Not far behind, the Bowflex Treadmill 22 has a big 22-inch HD touchscreen along with multiple controls for speed and inline adjustments. Selecting a workout on JRNY or choosing your entertainment is easy with a large screen for viewing. Speed and incline controls on the side handrails, extended handlebars, and quick jump buttons on the lower console make for easy adjustments. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 has a swiveling console with a 14-inch HD touchscreen that integrates with the iFit app. When following iFit workouts, the AutoAdjust feature changes speed and incline for you. Additionally, there are quick jump speed and incline buttons and speed and incline adjustment buttons below the console. The ergonomics of the controls were slightly lacking compared to some, but they are easy enough to use regardless.

The Echelon Stride, XTerra TRX3500, and the NordicTrack T6.5 S are also quite easy to use with straightforward controls and simpler digital displays that are easy to read. Starting manual workouts is particularly straightforward, although using Bluetooth to connect any of these models to training apps adds an additional step and a little time at startup.

Features

All of the models we tested come with various features intended to enhance the exercise experience or user-friendliness. These features vary from model to model and include things like integrated speakers, Bluetooth, water bottle holders, heart rate sensors, and more. Most models have at least a few basics, while our favorites come with all the bells and whistles. Most of the treadmills we tested fold to reduce their footprint when not in use and have transport wheels to facilitate moving them around. Most of them also have soft-drop systems to lock the deck in the raised position and lower it slowly to the ground. This test metric makes up 15% weighting of a product's overall score.

With all the bells and whistles, the Bowflex Treadmill 22 is the most feature-rich model we tested. Not only does it have a huge tread surface, excellent cushioning, and -5% to +20% incline, but it also comes with a 22-inch touchscreen, WiFi to connect to the JRNY app, and Bluetooth to connect to wireless accessories. It comes with a heart rate armband, plus it has heart rate sensors on the extended handlebars. It also has front-facing speakers, a USB charging port, a small cooling fan, and more places than you'll ever need to hold water bottles and other items. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is similarly equipped. The swiveling ability of the console is a highlight as it allows you to more easily view iFit workouts off the treadmill. It also has quality speakers, a surprisingly effective 3-speed adjustable fan, and two bottle holders for refreshments.

The Peloton Tread has a best-in-test tilting touchscreen with excellent speakers, two bottle holders, and a small shelf for a phone or other items. Peloton has also taken steps to make it as safe as possible with features like a Tread Lock passcode required at startup or after it sits idle for 45 seconds, a tread sensor that stops the belt and activates the Tread Lock after 10 seconds of inactivity, a magnetic safety key/lanyard, and multiple safety prompts in every workout from the instructors. The Echelon Stride's most notable feature is the folding design that makes it much more compact and storable when not in use. On top of that, it has 2 bottle holders and Bluetooth to connect in integrate with the Echelon app through your own device.

Ease of Assembly

Most of our test models arrived in a large box with some assembly required. After unboxing each treadmill and removing protective packing materials, we finished the remaining assembly ourselves. All of them came with adequate assembly instructions, and most come with all of the tools required to complete the remaining tasks. Beyond their weight and size, none of them are all that difficult to assemble, although some are more involved and time-consuming than others. This test metric holds a 10% weighting of a product's overall score.

When you purchase the Peloton Tread you also have to pay for delivery and professional assembly. Since the assembly is done for you, it doesn't get much easier, you can be sure that it gets done right, and you don't have to deal with moving this heavy machine in its shipping box. The Echelon Stride comes pretty much ready to go in the box. You'll need to remove it from the box and packing materials, of course, then all that's left is to unfold the support arms, handrail, and console, then plug it in. Similarly, the GoPlus Super Fit is virtually ready for use in the box, but you'll need to attach the handrails and phone holder if you intend to use them. The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 isn't far behind, with only a few bolts needed to secure the support arms and console once you unbox it.

The remaining models all had many more steps in the process and required significantly more time to complete. Most notably, the Bowflex Treadmill 22 and the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 were by far the heaviest and most difficult to move, and each took about 2 hours to assemble and required the assistance of another person for several of the steps.

Storability

The size of your home and your available space to dedicate to a treadmill will dictate the importance of storability in your purchase decision. The needs of apartment dwellers and those without a specific exercise space will certainly be different than those with a large house or dedicated workout room. Nearly every model we tested has either a folding tread deck or support arms that reduce their size when not in use, and they have integrated wheels that make it fairly easy to move them around on firm, flat surfaces. Storability makes up 10% of the final score.

The Echelon Stride scores extremely well in this metric due to its folding arm design that reduces it to just 10 inches thick. It's still relatively wide and long, but it can be slid under a bed or leaned up against a wall for storage. It's also comparatively lightweight at 156 lbs, and a handle at the back of the tread and two sets of wheels at the front make it easier than most to move around. This is particularly impressive given that it still has a good size tread, 12 mph top speed, and 10% incline. Although it can't compete with the Stride for exercise quality, the GoPlus Super Fit is even smaller and easier to move and store. It's more of a walking/under-desk model and can easily be stashed under a couch or in a closet.

Most of the other models we tested feature folding tread decks that reduce their overall footprint by nearly half. While they will definitely never disappear from view, they do open up some floor space when folded. The exception is the non-folding Peloton Tread, although it has a fairly compact design for its tread size, making it less obtrusive than it could be.

Noise Level

Using a sound level meter, we recorded the decibel level at varying speeds with the belt on its own and with a tester walking or running. The meter was positioned 24-inches above the floor and diagonally 18-inches away from the motor next to the tread deck. Decibel readings were recorded at 1, 4, and 7.5 mph. The majority of the models we tested fell within just a few decibels of each other, with the sound of a user's footfalls causing a notable increase with each step. No treadmill will ever be silent, of course, but none that we tested qualify as being excessively loud either. Due to the relatively slight differences between models, the results from this test metric hold just a 5% weighting of a product's overall score.

While the differences are very slight, we found that the Echelon Stride was one of the quietest. It has a smaller 1.75 CHP motor that emits very little noise with just the belt running on its own, 40, 54, and 62 decibels at 1, 4, and 7.5 mph, respectively, and it was the quietest with a runner at just 65.5 decibels at 7.5 mph. We think this comparatively low noise level only adds to its appeal for use in small spaces. With a 2.2 HP motor, the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 measured almost the same noise levels as the Stride, although it was just a tiny bit louder, 67 decibels, with a runner at 7.5 mph. The rest of the field was only a few decibels higher, and none were so loud that you couldn't have a conversation.

Conclusion

There is a lot to consider when searching for a new treadmill, but finding the right one can genuinely enhance your at-home training. There are loads of excellent options on the market, and we hope this detailed comparative review helps you find the right model to meet your needs, fitness goals, and budget. We have a number of other fitness reviews, including top-rated dumbbells, as well as our favorite exercise bands that will help you stay in shape. Our team of avid runners has also tested a wide variety of running gear, including many styles of top-rated running shoes and the best men's running shorts to keep you comfortable through your workouts.