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Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:- Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
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- Best overall: NordicTrack T Series 6.5S
- Best foldable: Horizon T101
- Best for small spaces: GoPlus Folding Treadmill
- Best affordable: Sunny Health and Fitness Folding Treadmill
- Best for walking: WalkingPad R1 Pro
From exercise bikes to vertical climbers, there’s no shortage of cardio machines to choose from.
However, if you’re looking to break a sweat at home, it’s hard to beat the effectiveness of a treadmill. The challenge is finding a treadmill that doesn’t break the bank.
To help, we rounded up the best budget-friendly options using the following criteria:
- Training features. To ensure the best workout, we considered the training specs of each product, including the max speed and incline options.
- Special features. Despite the lower price tag, we looked for treadmills with plenty of extra features, such as Bluetooth speakers, cup holders, and LCD screens.
- Cost. We know that budgets can vary, so we included treadmills at a variety of price points.
- User feedback. We only included products that have mostly positive customer reviews.
Here are the best treadmills you can purchase for under $1,000 in 2021.
A note on price
General price ranges with dollar signs ($ to $$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost.
Generally, prices range from $389.99–$999, though this may vary depending on where you shop.
Pricing guide:
- $ = under $400
- $$ = $400–$700
- $$$ = above $700
Best overall
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds (136 kg)
- Incline: 0–10%
- Max speed: 10 mph (16 kph)
- Tread belt length: 55 inches (140 cm)
- Special features: Auxiliary music port, digitally amplified speakers
- Warranty: 10 years on the frame, 2 years on parts, and 1 year on labor
- Price: $$
Despite its relatively low price tag, the NordicTrack T Series 6.5S comes equipped with several special features, including a built-in sound system, auxiliary music port, and backlit display screen.
It also doesn’t skimp on training options, as it offers a max speed of 10 mph (16 kph) and up to a 10% incline.
What’s more, you can feel comfortable with your purchase, as the NordicTrack T Series comes with extensive warranties, including a 10-year frame warranty.
Best foldable
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds (136 kg)
- Incline: 0–10%
- Max speed: 10 mph (16 kph)
- Tread belt length: 55 inches (140 cm)
- Special features: Bluetooth speakers, device holder, 30 built-in workout programs
- Warranty: Lifetime on the frame and motor, 1 year on parts and labor
- Price: $$$
The Horizon T101 is one of the best foldable treadmill options on the market.
In addition to saving you space, it’s easy to assemble and offers several special features, including Bluetooth speakers, a cooling fan, and 30 built-in workout programs.
The main downside is that it doesn’t come with a touch screen or on-demand classes. However, as it’s equipped with a device holder, you can simply stream workout classes on your phone or tablet instead.
While the price tag comes close to $1,000, the company frequently offers discounts and special financing to make the Horizon T101 even more affordable.
Best for small spaces
- Weight capacity: 265 pounds (120 kg)
- Incline: 0%
- Max speed: 8 mph (13 kph)
- Tread belt size: 40 inches (102 cm)
- Special features: Foldable, Bluetooth capabilities, phone holder, 5-layer nonslip running belt
- Warranty: 1 year on parts
- Price: $
The GoPlus Folding Treadmill is great if you’re tight on space, as it’s lightweight and particularly easy to fold and store.
While it doesn’t offer many special features, it’s equipped with a phone holder and Bluetooth capabilities, so you can stream music during your workout.
One thing to note is its relatively low max speed. As a result, this treadmill is great for walking or jogging but not for fast runs.
Best affordable
- Weight capacity: 220 pounds (99.8 kg)
- Incline: 0%, 2%, and 4.37%
- Max speed: 9 mph (14.5 kph)
- Tread belt length: 49 inches (124 cm)
- Special features: Foldable, quick speed buttons, handrail controls, 9 built-in workouts
- Warranty: 3 years for the frame, 180 days for parts and other components
- Price: $$
The Sunny Health and Fitness Folding Treadmill is good for beginners or those looking for a basic, budget-friendly option.
It’s also foldable and features nine built-in workouts, handrail controls, quick speed buttons, and three incline levels, which have to be adjusted manually.
However, as its max speed is capped at 9 mph (14.5 kph), this machine isn’t ideal for faster runners.
Best for walking
- Weight capacity: 242 pounds (110 kg)
- Incline: 0%
- Max speed: 3.7 mph (6 kph) in walking mode; 6.2 mph (10 kph) in running mode
- Tread belt length: 47.2 inches (120 cm)
- Special features: Foldable, battery-operated remote, telescopic handrail
- Price: $$$
Designed to fit next to a standing desk, the WalkingPad R1 Pro is perfect if you want to walk while you work.
The treadmill features a telescopic handrail that’s used to switch the machine from walking to running mode.
When the handrail is down, the treadmill can be placed next to your desk, with the max speed limited to 3.7 mph (6 kph). To switch to running mode, you simply raise the handrail.
Other notable features include a battery-operated remote for adjusting your speed and activity tracking using the KS Fit APP, which logs your distance and the number of calories burned.
While it’s a great option for those looking to get their steps in for the day, the WalkingPad R1 Pro has a relatively low max speed and lacks many standard treadmill features, such as a cup holder and incline options.
Looking to purchase a treadmill that won’t break the bank? Here are some factors to consider during your search:
- Intended use and desired features. While some treadmills are better for speed training, others offer special features, such as Bluetooth speakers and programmed workouts.
- The fine print. Even budget-friendly treadmills are an investment, so it’s important to understand what’s covered under warranty and for how long.
- Customer reviews. As customers tend to be up front about whether a product is worth the money, it’s helpful to read reviews before purchasing a product.
It’s hard to beat the convenience of a treadmill, especially when bad weather makes it necessary to work out inside.
Plus, with several options under $1,000, you don’t have to spend all your savings on one either.
By prioritizing features and using this list as a guide, we’re confident that you’ll find a great treadmill for your budget.
