The Best Home Treadmills to Maintain Your Mileage and Fitness Goals

Buying the best treadmill for your home gym is a big commitment. Even the more affordable models are pricey. They take up a lot of space, and if you’ve ever come across a busted belt or a broken screen, you know how frustrating they can be. That being said, having a cardio machine in your house that works makes exercising so much more convenient. I definitely run more (and stick to my marathon training plans better) because of various treadmills I’ve had at home over the years. They can also make interval training a bit easier and help you practice hills if you don't have access to much challenging incline outside.

The convenience of a home treadmill cannot be overstated. No matter the weather outside – be it scorching heat, freezing rain, or a blizzard – your workout is always accessible. There's no travel time to a gym, no waiting for a machine, and you can exercise at any hour that suits your schedule. This accessibility is often the key factor that helps individuals consistently adhere to their fitness plans, whether they are training for a specific race, maintaining general health, or simply looking for a reliable way to stay active indoors.

Beyond simple convenience, home treadmills offer a controlled environment perfect for specific training types. Interval training, which involves alternating between high-intensity bursts and lower-intensity recovery periods, is particularly effective on a treadmill because you can precisely control speed and incline transitions. Similarly, hill training, crucial for building strength and endurance for outdoor running or hiking, can be simulated accurately using the incline features available on many models. For those living in flat areas, a treadmill with a significant incline range becomes an invaluable tool for preparing for hilly races or challenging terrain.

If you’re in the market for one, you probably know there are tons of options at all kinds of prices, and it can be hard to know what’s really worth splurging on. To help you narrow your search, we tested all the treads below, seeing how they held up through countless long-distance runs, hill workouts, and sprinting intervals. Our top picks are the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 and the Aviron Victory Treadmill, but we have many more below.

Here’s what you should keep in mind as you shop. Is a garage treadmill too much for you? You might want to consider our guide to the Best Walking Pads instead. And don't forget to check out the rest of our health and fitness buying guides, like the Best Fitness Trackers and the Best Smart Scales.

How to Pick a Treadmill: Key Considerations

Choosing the right treadmill involves more than just picking one that looks good. Several factors should influence your decision to ensure the machine meets your specific needs, fits your space, and aligns with your budget and fitness goals.

Budget

Of course, budget will probably be the biggest factor. Treadmills range from a few hundred dollars for basic walking models to several thousand for high-end machines with advanced features and interactive programming. Determine how much you're willing to invest, keeping in mind that a higher price often correlates with better build quality, more powerful motors, larger running surfaces, and more sophisticated technology.

Space and Size

Treadmills, even folding models, take up significant space. Consider where you plan to put the treadmill and measure the available area. Most companies recommend that you leave at least two feet of clearance on either side of the treadmill and six feet behind, in case you fly off while running at high speeds. Folding treadmills can help save space when not in use, but they still have a substantial footprint when deployed. Ensure the folded dimensions also work for your storage area.

User Weight Capacity

Check the machine’s weight capacity. This is a crucial safety specification. Ensure the treadmill can comfortably support the weight of its heaviest user. Exceeding the weight limit can strain the motor and frame, potentially leading to damage and voiding the warranty.

Motor Power (HP)

The motor's horsepower (HP) is a key indicator of a treadmill's durability and performance, especially for runners. For walking, a 1.5 to 2.0 HP motor might suffice. For jogging, look for 2.5 HP or higher. Serious runners or households with multiple users should consider 3.0 HP or more for sustained performance and longevity. A continuous duty horsepower (CHP) rating is generally more reliable than a peak HP rating.

Running Surface Size

The size of the belt is important for comfort and safety, particularly for taller individuals or runners. A standard running belt is typically 20 inches wide and 55 inches long. For running, especially at higher speeds or for taller users, a belt that is 20-22 inches wide and 60 inches long is preferable to allow for a natural stride and reduce the risk of stepping off the side.

Cushioning and Deck Feel

The running deck's cushioning affects impact absorption, which can be crucial for joint health, especially during longer runs. Different treadmills offer varying levels of cushioning, from firm and responsive to soft and shock-absorbing. Some models even allow you to adjust the cushioning. Consider your personal preference and any history of joint issues when evaluating this feature.

Display and Metrics

Which metrics do you want to measure? Do you want to measure pace, distance, speed, incline, time, calories burned, or heart rate? Basic treadmills might have simple LED displays showing essential data. More advanced models feature larger LCD or touchscreen displays that can show more metrics simultaneously, offer built-in workout programs, or even stream entertainment and interactive classes. Decide if you need a built-in display or if you have your own wrist computer or tablet you plan to use.

Connectivity and Programming

Do you want built-in fitness programming, or do you have your own workout plan? Many modern treadmills offer Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity to sync with fitness apps (like Peloton, Zwift, iFIT, JRNY) or wearable devices (like Apple Watch or Garmin). These apps can provide guided workouts, scenic routes, performance tracking, and social features. Some treadmills require a paid subscription to access the full library of content. Decide if interactive programming is important to you and factor in the subscription cost.

Incline and Decline Range

Do you need a machine that you can all-out sprint on, or one that will allow you to practice running on steep inclines and declines? Most treadmills offer incline to simulate hills, typically up to 10-15%. Some high-end models also offer decline, which can simulate downhill running and work different muscle groups. Consider your training goals; if hill training is a priority, look for a wider incline range.

Speed Range

Ensure the treadmill's maximum speed is sufficient for your training needs. Most treadmills go up to 10-12 mph, which is adequate for most runners. Elite runners or those focused on very high-speed intervals might need a machine capable of faster speeds.

Durability and Warranty

A treadmill is a significant investment, so look for a machine with a sturdy frame and a good warranty. Warranties typically cover the frame, motor, parts, and labor for varying periods. Longer warranties, especially on the frame and motor, indicate the manufacturer's confidence in the product's durability.

Our Top Treadmill Picks

Based on extensive testing, here are the treadmills that stood out across different categories, offering a range of features and price points to suit various needs.

Best Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

In SNL’s Stefon’s voice: This treadmill has everything. A solid top speed of 12 mph (a roughly five-minute-per-mile pace), incline and decline options (-3 to 12 percent), a springy running deck, fans, a 16-inch pivoting touchscreen you can use to stream shows, and two water bottle holders. Not only is this a durable, well-built machine, it has some seriously cool features in terms of programming. NordicTrack uses iFIT, which features a library of 10,000 workouts, including running, walking, hiking, and even off-tread activities like strength training and yoga. (You’ll need a subscription to access the majority of the workouts—there are two options at $15 or $40 a month.) You can follow a trainer through gorgeous mountain and beach landscapes, and you can opt to have the treadmill automatically adjust your speed and incline throughout the workout.

Another feature, called Smart Adjust, will tweak the speed and incline to match your fitness level over time, based on changes you made in your past workouts. Using the free wearable monitor that comes with the tread, your machine can track your heart rate, and Active Pulse can also auto-adjust your workout’s intensity to keep you in your ideal heart rate zones throughout. Even the fans can adjust automatically during workouts to give you more breeze when you’re really suffering. If you like workout variety and following along with digital training—versus running your own workouts—you’ll get a lot out of this treadmill.

When I tested the 1750, I was following a training plan for a trail race. I did a lot of my own workouts on this tread, and it was well suited for manual training, too. I used it to do several interval sessions, and I appreciated how quickly it moved between speeds. You can change the speed and incline manually via up/down buttons on the front of the machine under the screen, and by pressing numbered buttons on the sides of the screen.

I would have loved to have the option of speed and incline dials for quicker and easier adjusting, but the buttons worked well enough. The fans are well-placed and effective. The deck on the 1750 was also bouncier underfoot than other treads I’ve tested (in a good way). I got a good energy return without feeling unstable. It was also lighter and easier to fold and move around than many of the other options I tested, though still not exactly easy for me at 5'4". The 1750 also just looks and feels really nice, even though it’s by no means the most expensive option out there. It’s the one I wanted to keep coming back to for workouts.

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Specs:

• Speed range: Up to 12 mph
• Incline/decline: -3 to 12 percent
• Weight capacity: 400 pounds
• Foldable? Yes
• Footprint: 77.3" L x 37" W x 59.5" H
• ANT+ connectivity? No

Best for Beginners: Aviron Victory Treadmill

Aviron’s Victory Treadmill (8/10, WIRED Recommends) has two standout features that make it perfect if you're just trying to start running in a house full of dogs and kids. First, the deck is remarkably low to the ground—only 4 inches! No one is getting trapped underneath it, and even if a 7-year-old did start it and fall off, they don't have very far to go. This low profile adds a layer of safety and makes it less intimidating for new users or households with pets and children.

The sheer breadth of Aviron's content is staggering. You can do scenic routes, like NordicTrack's iFIT, as well as scroll on TikTok, watch Netflix, or read your Kindle. But Aviron's games are the real reason you subscribe to the treadmill's service. Most of these are designed to get you moving by any means necessary. They incentivize increasing your speed or incline by letting you shoot aliens in space or shoot pirate ships with cannons. This gamified approach can make exercise feel less like a chore and more like entertainment, which is particularly appealing to beginners or those who struggle with motivation.

One of the signs that the Victory Treadmill is not meant for experienced runners is that, despite the price, it doesn't have a fan. Games like Skyquest or Rags to Riches are also not particularly difficult—even on the medium difficulty levels, I very rarely worked up a sweat and often ended up just switching to my Garmin suggested workouts. However, the treadmill is so low to the ground and so quiet and the games so fun that it did draw the whole neighborhood crew of 7- to 10-year-olds to run and walk on the treadmill. If a third-grader wants to run on a Victory Treadmill, so will the most reluctant adult. The focus here is on making movement engaging and accessible, rather than catering to high-performance training needs.

Aviron Victory Treadmill Specs:

• Speed range: Up to 12.5 mph
• Incline/decline: 0 to 12 percent
• Weight capacity: 400 pounds
• Foldable? No
• Footprint: 77" L x 33" W x 62" H
• ANT+ connectivity? Yes

Best Budget Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness Foldable Auto Incline Treadmill

If you’re looking for something affordable that will get the job done, this tread is a good choice. It’s a very straightforward machine, with simple up/down buttons that allow you to adjust the incline and speed, and a few numbered buttons to jump to various options. There’s no screen, but there is a stand for your phone or tablet, and you can connect to the free Sunny Health & Fitness app via bluetooth to access 10,000 scenic running routes and over 1,000 workouts (which feature all kinds of running and strength combos) that you can follow along with. There are two water bottle holders and heart rate monitors on the arms of the machine, too.

The appeal of a budget treadmill like this lies in its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. It provides the core function of a treadmill – a moving belt for walking or running – without the bells and whistles that drive up the price. While it lacks a built-in screen, the ability to use your own device and access a substantial library of workouts via the app is a significant plus, offering guided training and variety that wasn't typically available on budget models in the past. The inclusion of automatic incline adjustment is also a valuable feature at this price point, allowing for more varied and challenging workouts than manual incline systems.

I really appreciated the fact that this tread comes essentially fully assembled, and the setup is extremely easy—I’m terrible at putting things together and I had it up and running in a matter of minutes. This ease of setup is a major advantage for those who are not mechanically inclined or who want to start using their new equipment right away. It’s also lightweight and easy to fold and move around. This portability makes it suitable for smaller spaces where the treadmill needs to be stored away when not in use.

The downside there is that it’s not as stable as other options on this list. It was bouncy and a bit wobbly, especially at higher speeds, but if you’re not planning to do a lot of sprinting, you might not have any issues. This is a common trade-off for lighter, more portable treadmills. The 300-pound weight capacity is standard for budget models but lower than some higher-end options, which is another factor to consider based on intended users.

Sunny Health & Fitness Specs:

• Speed range: Up to 10 mph
• Incline/decline: 0 to 15 percent
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Foldable? Yes
• Footprint: 63.8" L x 30.9" W x 44.1" H
• ANT+ connectivity? No

Best Midrange Treadmill: Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Treadmill

This treadmill is a great option for a more reasonable price, bridging the gap between budget models and high-end interactive machines. It offers solid performance and useful features without the premium cost associated with large built-in touchscreens and extensive proprietary content libraries.

My favorite features were the speed and incline dials on the heart rate monitor handles—I find dials to be so much easier to use when I’m doing interval training and I want to move between speeds without pressing a button a million times or dealing with a lot of lag. This intuitive control system is a significant advantage for workouts that require frequent adjustments, allowing for smoother transitions and a more focused training session.

The 7.0 AT doesn’t have a screen, but there’s a tablet/phone holder and charging port, so you can still follow along with digital workouts. There’s Bluetooth connectivity for apps like Peloton and Zwift, and you can connect your Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch for more accurate and synched fitness tracking metrics. This open platform approach allows users to choose their preferred fitness apps and services, avoiding being locked into a single ecosystem and potentially saving money on subscriptions if they already use a popular fitness app.

This tread did feel less durable and stable than others I tested; there was more bounce than I’d like, though it wasn’t off-putting. This is a common characteristic in the midrange category compared to heavier, commercial-grade machines. There’s a fan, which is a really nice feature on a tread at this price, but I wasn’t able to feel it unless I was high up on the belt. I also found that it was very hard to move when it was folded—you have to lean the machine pretty far towards you to get it up on the wheels, and it’s heavy. While foldable, its weight and design make it less ideal for frequent relocation compared to lighter budget models.

Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Specs:

• Speed range: Up to 12 mph
• Incline/decline: 0 to 15 percent
• Weight capacity: 325 pounds
• Foldable? Yes
• Footprint: 76” L x 35” W x 67” H
• ANT+ connectivity? No

Best for Hill Training: Bowflex Treadmill 22

I’m a long-time user of Bowflex equipment, and the Treadmill 22 is equally solid. This machine is built for serious training, particularly for those who need to simulate challenging outdoor terrain indoors. You can go just as fast on this machine as the NordicTrack (12 mph), but your incline and decline ranges are much larger (-5 to 20 percent). This extensive range is what sets it apart, making it the top recommendation for hill-specific training.

I recommend this one for hill-specific training. I found it super useful leading up to my trail race when weather conditions wouldn’t let me run safely outside (or it was late at night and I didn’t have time to drive to a trailhead). If you live in a flat area and want to prime your body for a hilly course, this treadmill can really give you the grades you need. The ability to train on inclines up to 20% allows you to build significant leg strength and cardiovascular endurance, mimicking steep climbs that are difficult to find consistently in many urban or suburban environments. The -5% decline is also valuable for training the muscles used in downhill running, which helps prevent injuries and improves efficiency on varied terrain.

Bowflex’s fitness program is called JRNY, and with a $12-$20 subscription, you can follow along with tons of workouts (there are some free options, too). When you first sign up, you take a fitness test and the program will create custom workouts for you. Those workouts include both cardio-based and off-tread strength options, and JRNY has an Explore the World feature that I particularly liked. It’s nice to zone out and run next to elephants in Thailand. The integration with JRNY adds guided training and motivational content, although the treadmill's core strength lies in its robust hardware capabilities, especially its incline/decline system.

The 22-inch touchscreen is great for streaming your own shows and movies, too. This is a significant advantage for users who prefer to watch entertainment or use third-party fitness apps during their workouts. There are multiple grab handles (the 20 percent incline gets real very fast), and the lower ones have heart rate sensors. You can adjust the speed and incline via up/down buttons on one set of handles, numbered buttons under the screen, and up/down toggles on each side rail. There are two large water bottle holders near the screen, a lower shelf for anything else you want near you, and there’s a fan. It’s not as powerful as the fans in other models I tested, and you need to be kind of tall to feel it on your face. This tread is substantial and very stable; it feels good underfoot. It’s bulky though, and not the easiest to fold and move around, so I’d recommend keeping it in one spot if possible.

Bowflex Treadmill 22 Specs:

• Speed range: Up to 12 mph
• Incline/decline: -5 to 20 percent
• Weight capacity: 400 pounds
• Foldable? Yes
• Footprint: 85" L x 39.6" W x 70" H
• ANT+ connectivity? No

Best Streaming Workouts: Peloton Tread

It’s impossible to beat the workout programming you can get from Peloton. If you tend to jog on the treadmill and not try much else, taking classes with Peloton can get you out of your comfort zone and maybe even help you learn to love running. When WIRED editor Jeremy White reviewed the Tread, he said it genuinely changed the way he exercised, and that he started to crave the upbeat trainers pushing him in live classes. The energy and motivation provided by Peloton's instructors and community are key selling points for this ecosystem.

Of course, you don’t need the machine to get a Peloton subscription (which costs $13-$44 per month depending on tier, and offers live and on-demand cardio, strength training, and yoga classes). You could train with Peloton programming using a less expensive machine. But there are benefits to the Tread. (It's worth noting here that we're referring to the smaller, more compact Tread, and not the Tread+, which unfortunately was recalled after causing many injuries and one child death.) The integration between the hardware and software is seamless, providing a premium, cohesive user experience.

This is easily the sleekest, most beautifully designed option on our list. It’s heavy, stable, and durable, reflecting a high level of build quality. The 23.8-inch touchscreen tilts so you can follow along with workouts off the treadmill, and the speed and incline dials make it incredibly easy to adjust during intervals. You can also opt for auto-incline, so the machine follows along with your instructor’s cues. There’s space to hold a water bottle and your phone, and not much else—a feature minimalists will appreciate. The design is clean and modern, intended to fit aesthetically into a home environment.

The downsides? It doesn’t fold up, so you really need a dedicated home for it. This lack of portability is a significant consideration for those with limited space. Peloton also doesn’t allow you to stream your own shows, movies, or music through the device, a feature many other higher-end treadmills have. This closed ecosystem can be frustrating for users who prefer to multitask or use other entertainment platforms while exercising. If you’re looking for something attractive that’s built for speed and quick transitions, this is a top-tier option. The programming is excellent, too, and pairs well with the brand’s equipment, but again, you don’t need the machinery to utilize the classes.

Peloton Tread Specs:

• Speed range: Up to 12.5 mph
• Incline/decline: 0 to 12.5 percent
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Foldable? No
• Footprint: 68" L x 33" W x 62" H
• ANT+ connectivity? Yes

A Run Free Treadmill: Wahoo Fitness Kickr Run

The Wahoo Fitness Kickr Run stands out in the market for its unique approach to treadmill training, prioritizing a natural running feel over integrated screens and extensive built-in content libraries. The appeal of Wahoo's Kickr Run is that it allows you to run at your own pace without screens. This smart treadmill can lock on to your speed in Run Free mode, taking samples of your speed 100 times a second to match your feet. This innovative feature aims to replicate the experience of running outdoors, where your pace dictates your movement, rather than being dictated by a machine's setting. It's a significant departure from traditional treadmills and caters to runners who prefer a more intuitive and less structured workout.

It takes some getting used to, but it's a very nice treadmill experience once you get locked in. The responsiveness of the belt to your speed adjustments is designed to feel seamless and natural. I like how easily the treadmill pairs to Zwift and that you can just use your cell phone to track workouts via the Wahoo app. This connectivity allows users to leverage popular third-party training platforms and track their data without needing a large, integrated console. You can use the giant included platform to watch shows on a tablet or laptop while using your cell phone to glance at any needed data. This provides flexibility for entertainment during runs, addressing a common user desire.

With a max speed of up to 15 mph (a roughly 4-minute per mile pace), this thing is more than powerful enough for even elite runners. The motor is robust and capable of handling high speeds and intense workouts. It also offers a significant incline/decline range (-3 to 15 percent), adding versatility for hill training. Just make sure that you have a dedicated 15- to 20-amp circuit with no GFCI, or it is fully capable of blacking out your garage gym. This highlights the power requirements of such a high-performance machine and is an important practical consideration for potential buyers.

Wahoo Fitness Kickr Run Specs:

• Speed range: Up to 15 mph
• Incline/decline: -3 to 15 percent
• Weight capacity: 429 pounds
• Foldable? No
• Footprint: 72" L x 38" W x 58" H
• ANT+ connectivity? Yes

Maintaining Your Home Treadmill

Once you've invested in a home treadmill, proper maintenance is essential to ensure its longevity and smooth operation. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection can prevent common issues and keep your machine running like new.

• Keep it Clean: Dust and sweat can accumulate on and under the belt, affecting performance and potentially damaging components. Wipe down the console, handrails, and frame after each use. Periodically vacuum under the treadmill and around the motor housing (following manufacturer instructions).
• Lubricate the Belt: The running belt requires lubrication to reduce friction between the belt and the deck. Check your owner's manual for the recommended type of lubricant and frequency (usually every few months, depending on usage). Proper lubrication prevents premature wear on the belt and motor.
• Align and Tension the Belt: Over time, the belt can shift or become loose. If the belt is off-center, it can rub against the side rails and get damaged. If it's too loose, it can slip during use. Consult your manual for instructions on how to check and adjust the belt alignment and tension using the rear roller bolts.
• Check for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect the running belt for signs of wear, fraying, or damage. Check the deck for cracks or unevenness. Listen for unusual noises coming from the motor or belt. Addressing minor issues early can prevent major breakdowns.
• Motor and Electronics: The motor is the heart of the treadmill. Ensure the area around the motor is kept clean and free of debris to prevent overheating. Avoid spilling liquids on the console, as this can damage the electronics.

Following these simple maintenance steps will help protect your investment and ensure your treadmill remains a reliable tool for your fitness journey for years to come.

Beyond the Treadmill: Complementary Fitness Gear

While a treadmill is a fantastic foundation for a home gym, complementing it with other gear can provide a more well-rounded fitness routine. Consider adding items like dumbbells or resistance bands for strength training, a yoga mat for stretching and core work, or even a stationary bike or elliptical for cross-training variety. Fitness trackers, as mentioned earlier, can also enhance your training by providing detailed metrics and tracking progress across different activities.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Stride at Home

Investing in a home treadmill is a significant decision, but the benefits of convenience, privacy, and the ability to tailor workouts to your specific needs can be transformative for your fitness. Whether you prioritize interactive streaming classes, robust hill training capabilities, a budget-friendly option, or a simple machine for consistent mileage, there's a treadmill out there for you.

Our testing highlights a range of excellent options, from the feature-rich NordicTrack Commercial 1750 and the beginner-friendly Aviron Victory with its engaging games, to the reliable budget Sunny Health & Fitness, the solid midrange Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT, the hill-conquering Bowflex Treadmill 22, the class-leading Peloton Tread, and the innovative, screen-free Wahoo Fitness Kickr Run. Each offers a unique combination of features, performance, and price.

By carefully considering your space, budget, fitness goals, and desired features like speed range, incline/decline, cushioning, and connectivity, you can navigate the many options available and select the treadmill that will best support your journey towards maintaining your mileage and achieving your overall health and fitness objectives. Remember that the best treadmill is the one you will use consistently, so choose a machine that motivates and excites you to step on the belt day after day.