The 8 Best High-End Treadmills 2024 | Enduring Performance

Last Update: November 18, 2024

Sunday morning, rain is falling. That’s not just lyrics from an early ‘00s Maroon 5 song; it’s my worst fear as a runner whose long run is scheduled at that time. I need a treadmill I can rely on to get me through a couple of hours (or more) of running. But maybe you aren’t running as far, but you are sharing the treadmill with another daily user. Either way, not any old treadmill will do.

The best high-end treadmills are those that can handle marathon training, the workload of a fitness-minded family, or a dedicated exerciser who wants top-notch features. High-end treadmills promise performance capabilities unmatched by more affordable treadmills.

I’ve put in a lot of miles to help you find the treadmill that’s worth the splurge because it will be as enduring as you are. Keep reading to find the right match for your needs.

Here’s Our List Of The Best High-End Treadmills for 2024

• NordicTrack X24 Treadmill
• Wahoo KICKR RUN Treadmill
• Matrix T75 Treadmill
• Sole ST90 Slat Belt Treadmill
• NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill
• TrueForm Runner Manual Treadmill
• Life Fitness Club Series+ Treadmill
• Peloton Tread

NordicTrack X24 Treadmill

If you are looking for the best incline treadmill, look no further! The NordicTrack X24 has an unbeatable incline range. The 40% maximum incline has a speed limit of 6 mph, but we wouldn’t want to go any faster. We struggle to keep up even at 3.0 mph!

iFIT provides the trainer content for the NordicTrack X24. One of the key appeals to the iFIT platform is the automatic incline adjustments that mimics the terrain shown on the screen. So, when an iFIT trainer traverses a steep slope, the X24 matches it. The large incline range creates an even more realistic outdoor experience.

The X24 has a 24” touchscreen display, which is the largest screen size NordicTrack currently offers. The iFIT classes are even more immersive because of the cinematic view. Yet, there are even more possibilities beyond iFIT. The X24 has apps for Netflix, Prime Video, and Spotify. I admit to passing quite a few hours of running streaming shows and movies.

With such an impressive incline range, the X24 requires a large and supportive base to keep it stable. Thus, it is a non-folding treadmill with a heavy weight. Runners and walkers will need to accommodate its 69.9” x 38.1” x 73.3” size and 445-lb weight.

I recommend this treadmill for trail runners and hikers as well as anyone who wants the extra challenge of training on an incline up to 40%.

Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack X24 Treadmill Here

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Wahoo KICKR RUN Treadmill

The Wahoo KICKR RUN made a wave in the running community with its announcement. This high-end treadmill has unique features that will help you get the best long and interval runs. The KICKR RUN does not require a subscription but encourages using third-party apps to improve your training. Beginner to advanced runners will enjoy running on the Wahoo KICKR RUN.

Running outside allows instantaneous speed changes, running as fast as you want, and varying terrain. The Wahoo KICKR RUN brings indoor runners closer to the outdoor experience. The KICKR RUN defaults to minutes per mile for pace instead of miles per hour, which will likely feel more intuitive to runners.

Paddles adjust the speed and incline. A strong push forward or backward will make a large shift in the speed, while a small bump will make a much smaller change in speed. The KICKR RUN has a maximum speed of 15 miles per hour or 4:00/mile and a maximum incline of 15%.

Free Mode allows you to change speed simply by changing your positioning on the treadmill. The treadmill has a slight delay compared to accelerating off of a treadmill, but it’s very fast and intuitive to learn. Track workouts are much easier to perform with Free Mode and the higher speed limit.

Beyond traditional inclining, the KICKR RUN has a tilt feature that allows the treadmill to lean up to 1% side to side. This feature may be helpful for trail runners and runners trying to undo the effects of running on canted roads and sidewalks.

The KICKR RUN is compatible with a variety of apps from Wahoo, Zwift, Peloton, and more. It is an FTMS-compliant treadmill, so it will connect to many different apps. You can customize your runs on the Wahoo KICKR RUN Treadmill.

Read Our Full Review Of The Wahoo KICKR Run Treadmill Here

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Matrix T75 Treadmill

The Matrix T75 is a great high-end treadmill for many reasons, but it catches our eyes with its extensive content options. Multiple display options are available at purchase, ranging from a simplistic LCD to a luxurious 22” touchscreen with tablet-like capabilities.

The Matrix T75 Treadmill is a premium machine. Matrix is also a commercial treadmill manufacturer, and some components in their commercial-grade machines have found their way into the T75. One example of this is the 3.0 HP AC motor. This motor is for heavy-duty use, which is great for multi-user households or long-distance runners.

The T75 has four display options. The top pick is the XUR display, a 22” touchscreen display. I think the Matrix T75 is best when outfitted with a touchscreen, be it the 22” XUR, the 16” XIR, or the 10” XER.

The most affordable option is the LCD XR, but this display sacrifices most of the T75’s functionality by removing most of its smart features. XUR and XIR offer WiFi, Bluetooth, and HDMI connectivity, giving you a wide range of content options.

Whether you want to watch shows or movies, train with iFIT classes, or surf the internet, the Matrix T75 lets you do it all. You can find apps like Netflix, Spotify, Twitter, Kindle, and YouTube loaded onto the T75 console.

Matrix falls under the iFIT umbrella, offering thousands of fitness classes from over a hundred professional trainers. Many of these classes are compatible with your treadmill to automatically adjust the speed (0 to 12.5 mph) and incline (0% to 15%). The Matrix T75 is the ultimate multi-tasker treadmill with its built-in web browser.

Read Our Full Review Of The Matrix T75 Treadmill Here

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Sole ST90 Slat Belt Treadmill

The Sole ST90 has motorized and manual training options. The ST90 is outfitted with a 2.0 AC motor, typically only in commercial-grade products. This treadmill is for the runner who wants a premium machine. This slat belt treadmill offers unique cushioning and training abilities.

The Sole ST90 has a dialed-in console to quickly take you from your warm-up to your workout. The unique switches attached to the handrails are reminiscent of the dials on Peloton’s treadmills. However, the ST90 includes additional features missed in treadmills with similar constructions, including a device rack, larger storage compartments, and EKG heart rate grips.

Though the motor is only 2.0 HP, it is an AC motor, which typically lasts longer than a DC motor, making this treadmill a good long-term choice. Strangely, The ST90 has only a 5-year warranty on its motor, whereas Sole’s other treadmills have a lifetime warranty.

The other unique feature of the ST90 is its slat belt. These slats tend to have more give than traditional treadmill belts. Sole’s other treadmills tend to be firmer, so seeing a potentially softer, lower-impact option from this phenomenal brand is nice.

‘Free mode’ allows walkers or runners to disengage the ST90’s belt for manual activity. While in free mode, the ST90 can incline to eight resistance levels for even more ways to train. During the manual activity, the user powers the belt turning rather than the motor for a power-building (you) and a power-saving (your electricity) activity.

Outside of free mode, the ST90 has fifteen incline levels and a speed range of 0 to 12.5 mph. Train with content displayed on the 10” touchscreen or place your device in the device rack while you listen to cues through the Bluetooth speakers. The ST90 can do both.

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NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill

The NordicTrack 2450 is one of the least expensive models on this list, but it packs in top-tier features few treadmills have matched. I was pleasantly surprised by the 2450’s upgrades and happy to incorporate it into my running routine. Between the onscreen content and the soft cushioned running surface, I would question whether a more expensive treadmill is necessary.

The 2450 is NordicTrack’s top folding treadmill. It has the largest screen in the Commercial series, making it the perfect choice for exercisers using iFIT’s premium subscription platform. The screen can be rotated for off-treadmill viewing. iFIT provides a variety of yoga, strength, and meditation classes, which can be viewed on the 2450.

While on the treadmill, the 2450 provides a hands-free workout experience as it learns your performance to adjust the iFIT classes over time to meet your training needs with Smart Adjust. You can also use the ActivePulse feature with a heart rate monitor. It allows the treadmill to adjust to keep you in the heart rate zone prescribed by the class.

A sturdy construction keeps the 2450 stable for running up to 14 mph. The deck is spacious enough to stretch out your stride to hit new speeds with its 22” by 60” running surface. With its 4.25 CHP motor, the 2450 is ready for your long runs or more than one user’s daily activities. It also has the fastest speed and incline adjustments we have seen, which is perfect for HIIT.

When you are done for the day, the 2450 folds compactly between its angular uprights. The deck is reinforced to support up to 400 lbs. This high-quality design makes the deck a little heavier. Users who cannot comfortably lift 40+ lbs may struggle to lift the 2450 deck into its folded position.

I recommend the 2450 for runners and walkers who want to train with iFIT’s premium content at a lower price than the top treadmill on this list, the X24. It outshines that treadmill with its higher speed capacity and faster speed adjustments at a lower price.

Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill Here

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TrueForm Runner Manual Treadmill

The TrueForm Runner Manual Treadmill stands out with features that justify its premium price point. This manual treadmill has a modestly curved deck, a few customizable features, and a well-cushioned belt for smooth running with or without shoes. The TrueForm Runner is a solid-built treadmill prepared to push you to your limits.

As a manual treadmill, the TrueForm Runner manual treadmill has a limitless speed capacity. If you can run it, the Runner can do it. It has one of the slightest curves of any manual treadmill, beaten only by its more affordable counterpart, the TrueForm Trainer. This shallow curvature leads to a more natural running stride. Its soft cushioning is forgiving on the legs, even as you push yourself to your maximum speeds. The welded steel frame keeps the entire treadmill sturdy. The steel frame can be painted any RAL color. The TrueForm Runner can be made your own!

The TrueForm Runner is one of my favorite manual treadmills because of its belt options. The traditional tread is awesome but can be upgraded to more sport-specific surfaces. The turf surface can be used with running shoes or cleats for a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s a great option for many team sport athletes. The Track surface comes in two color options–blue or orange. Runners are welcome to run in their running shoes or spikes. What other treadmill can you wear cleats or spikes on?

The last running surface option highlights TrueForm’s attention to form and health. Naboso is a textured running surface. This surface is a barefoot-only material made for runners who want to improve their neural stimulation by activating the nerves on the bottoms of their feet. Dr. Emily Splichal, a podiatrist, invented Naboso. The TrueForm Runner’s overall construction is designed to make you a better runner, and this surface only furthers TrueForm’s mission.

Read Our Full Review Of The TrueForm Runner Manual Treadmill Here

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Life Fitness Club Series+ Treadmill

Life Fitness is a brand that you mainly encounter in gym settings, but they make great home treadmills. The Life Fitness Club Series+ has a high-powered AC motor, robust build, and limited lifetime warranty. The Life Fitness Club Series+ Treadmill is for users looking to spare no expense in finding their next treadmill.

The Life Fitness Club Seres+ Treadmill is for exercisers with a daily routine. Life Fitness offers a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, a 10-year parts warranty, and a 6-month cosmetic items warranty. The paint is sweat-resistant to keep your machine from corroding. The build combines a sturdy steel frame with cast aluminum foot rails for a high-end look and feel.

The running deck is a spacious 22” x 60” with a step-up height of only 8”. This treadmill holds up to 400 lbs. The speed range is 0 to 12 mph, and the incline rises to 15%. There is no option to decline this treadmill. The deck cushioning uses 8 Lifespring shock absorbers; these also come with a lifetime warranty.

The Club Series+ Treadmill has two console options. The SL console is a 20.5” LED console that displays your metrics. The more expensive option is the SE3 HD console, which is a 21.5” touchscreen. It offers many different entertainment options, including Netflix and Spotify.

Trainer-led content is available through Life Fitness on Demand workout classes. Lifescape offers global trails and running routes for a more immersive running experience. The Club Series+ has it all in one of the top-of-the-line products.

Read the full Life Fitness Club Series+ Review Here

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Peloton Tread

The Peloton Tread is a high-end treadmill with excellent screen and speaker quality. It’s my top pick for interval training, particularly if you want trainer-led classes. A Peloton subscription is essential for enjoying the Tread and helps justify its high-end price.

The Peloton Tread makes fast speed and incline adjustments, so you always stay on pace with your Peloton instructor. The speed and incline dials adjust with an easy swipe or press the jump button to reach the next speed or incline level. Some walkers or runners trying to set a specific speed precisely may have difficulty adjusting to the less precise swiping of the Peloton dials.

An upbeat instructor leads every Peloton class and guides you through your workout step by step. The classes prescribe speed ranges, so you can choose the appropriate pace within the range. There are beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes for walkers and runners.

Peloton requires a subscription to access its content. In addition to Tread classes, Peloton has the Lanebreak game, entertainment apps, and scenic classes for the Tread. You can also take the Peloton app with you as you train off of the Tread and even outside.

The Peloton Tread has a 23.8” touchscreen display. It also has powerful speakers. The screen and speakers are high quality and showcase the training content well. You can connect a Bluetooth heart rate monitor or Bluetooth headphones to the Peloton Tread.

The Tread has great features, but you’ll be missing out if you don’t subscribe. The Tread is usable without a membership, but the features are very limited.

Read the full Peloton Tread Review Here

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Factors To Consider When Finding The Best High-End Treadmill

High-end treadmills have price tags that double, triple, or are ten times their more affordable counterparts. When shelling out the cash for these treadmills, you want to be sure you are getting a return on your investment. There are a number of reasons that a treadmill may be priced higher, and we have listed a few that are most common.

Motor

The NordicTrack X24’s motor is powerful and placed out of the way under the deck.Treadmill motors are important components for motorized treadmills. The motor determines the appropriate use and use frequency of a treadmill. Not all treadmills are suitable for running. The motor power can be a big determinant of whether a treadmill is suitable for running. We prefer a 3.0 HP motor or better for running, though it matters less for AC motors.

DC motors are the most common type in home treadmills. AC motors are usually reserved for commercial settings because of their durability, but high-end treadmills may have AC motors instead. In this case, a lower HP rating is acceptable. When looking at high-end motorized treadmills, I recommend looking for either an AC motor or a 3.5+ HP DC motor.

An AC motor comes with a few concessions compared to a DC motor. Though both are suitable for use in a treadmill, DC motors tend to be used for in-home products because of their quick adjustments and their quietness. AC motors tend to be louder and slower to adjust. The big plus for AC motors is their longevity.

If noise is not a problem (consider the noise of a gym treadmill) and you aren’t big on fast, short intervals, an AC motor-powered treadmill is a great investment.

Console

The Sole ST90 has a touchscreen display that does not require a subscription.When it comes to the console, the big ticket item is the screen. High-end treadmill screens tend to be larger than 20” and have many features. The clear graphics of a high-definition display can take your training to the next level or help you exercise while binging your favorite shows. As such, consider carefully what content the screen allows you to view in addition to its size.

Not all treadmill screens provide access to third-party apps. If you are all about the screen, also consider the treadmill’s Bluetooth compatibility, speaker power, device storage, and screencasting, as these will greatly impact the treadmill screen’s performance.

Deck

Some high-end treadmills, like the NordicTrack 2450, are very soft and cushioned.High-end treadmills should be spacious enough to accommodate long strides. I expect to see a minimum of 20” x 60” at this price point. This size can vary somewhat when it comes to manual treadmills, but motorized treadmills should be fairly consistent at the higher end. Some motorized treadmills have widths up to 22”, which is more comfortable for large users.

In addition to size, consider the deck’s cushioning. If you are looking for a road-like feel, there are firm, high-end treadmills. Yet, many users are looking for premium cushioning when they search for high-end treadmills. Increased shock absorption can be easier on the legs and improve your recovery time. It can also make your cardio easier, so you can go further or faster.

Premium Features

The TrueForm Runner has a premium running deck with customizable surface options.There are features in high-end treadmills that you most likely won’t find in affordable alternatives. These features vary but can include more tablet-like touchscreens, customization options, and more durable materials. The tablet-like features might allow you to download or access more third-party apps or browse the web.

Customization can include color or console options. Lastly, durable material can include longer-lasting tactile buttons, corrosion-resistant paint, and less plastic/more metal in the construction.

Space Requirements

A treadmill like the NordicTrack X24 has awesome features, but it might require a lot of room.High-end treadmills are sturdy treadmills. This robust construction prevents them, in most cases, from being foldable, meaning you need a designated space for them. High-end treadmills are great for exercisers with a home gym. They are bulky pieces of equipment, but many brands offer white glove installation, so you don’t have to worry about setup.

Warranty

I recommend looking for treadmills with longer warranties. A lifetime warranty is always good to see on an expensive treadmill. High-end treadmills should be an investment that will last a very long time. If brands stand by their products, it makes it easier for you to trust that you are buying a quality piece of equipment.

How We Test Treadmills

Our treadmill review process involves real in-person testing. We run and walk on these treadmills just like you would. Many brands send us treadmills for testing, but we work with a wide range of brands to keep our reviews as unbiased as possible. Our reviewers are exercise professionals, exercisers, and runners.

We do more than use the treadmills. We push them to their limits, assess the build quality, and test their performance. Our review and test process is designed to bring you the highest quality reviews to inform your buying decisions.

Bottom Line – Best High-End Treadmills

High-end treadmills can be hefty expenses, but with the right time and consideration put into your purchase, they can be a solid investment. We have compiled this list to help you find the right brands and products to suit your training needs. With a high-end treadmill, you can get the most out of your daily training and find motivating features to keep you in your routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are high-end treadmills worth it?

High-end treadmills can be worth it. If you are a long-distance runner or walker who plans to use their machine every day, you could save more money over time by getting a machine you will not have to replace as quickly.

Multi-user households, especially where more than one person is a vigorous exerciser, will benefit from a high-end treadmill as it is built to withstand that level of use. In other regards, a high-end treadmill is worth it if you value premium features that can not be found in more affordable machines.

To summarize, it will depend on your level of use and your priorities regarding your cardio fitness. There are plenty of more affordable machines that will suit infrequent treadmill users with a few features and specification concessions.

How much is an expensive treadmill?

The treadmills on this list range from under $3k to over $10k. Some high-end treadmills have add-on features that can increase the price from hundreds to thousands of dollars more. We consider treadmills over $2k to be premium treadmills. At this price point, you will typically see more features included, like decline, large touchscreens, and premium content.

Why are some treadmills so expensive?

Treadmills are expensive because they must handle the high forces exerted by exercisers. Many treadmills are for daily use. Treadmills require durable, high-quality materials to withstand this use for years. Treadmills are large with multiple parts, increasing the likelihood of breaking. Some of the best treadmills are overengineered to solve these problems.

In more recent years, subscription content and online content have gained popularity. Users looking for more training and entertainment options have caused treadmills to add more and more smart features, which require even more expensive components.