The 9 Best Treadmills Under $1000 – 2024

Last Update: May 2, 2024

Treadmills have only gone up in price (as has everything else). Exercise should be affordable and accessible to everyone, so we have highlighted our best picks for treadmills under $1000. These treadmills won’t be a waste of your money as other bargain treadmills might. These treadmills provide great short-term savings and long-term investment! Even trusted brands like Horizon, ProForm, and NordicTrack have picks below the $1k threshold. Most treadmills in this category are ideal for walking, but a few are suitable for shorter, occasional running. Read on to learn more about these great bargain treadmills and who they are best suited to.

Here’s Our List Of The Best Treadmills Under $1000 for 2024

• Best Treadmill Under $1000: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
  
• Best iFIT Treadmill Under $1000: ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
• Best Folding Treadmill Under $1000: Sunny Health & Fitness Energy Flex Motorized Treadmill
• Best Amazon Treadmill Under $1000: NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill
• Best Compact Treadmill Under $1000: WalkingPad R2 2in1 Foldable Treadmill
• Best Walking Treadmill Under $1000: Horizon T101 Treadmill
• Best NordicTrack Treadmill Under $1000: NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill
• Best Space-Saving Treadmill Under $1000: XTERRA WS300 WalkSlim Treadmill
• Best Compact Running Treadmill Under $1000: WalkingPad X21 Treadmill

Best Treadmill Under $1000: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

The Horizon 7.0 AT outclasses other treadmills in the under $1000 category. Horizon has stayed true to its pricing while continuing to make better, upgraded treadmills. The 7.0 AT is from their Studio series, meant for running. The 7.0 AT has a spacious deck, great features, and a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor.

Quality is one of the biggest concerns buyers run into when searching for affordable exercise equipment. With the Horizon 7.0 AT, you can put your concerns aside. Lifetime warranties cover the motor and frame. The Horizon 7.0 AT has a 20” by 60” deck to accommodate running strides. Many other treadmills in this category will sacrifice the deck length for a more affordable build, but not Horizon! There is plenty of room to walk or run. The low step-up height of 8.6” is more convenient for users with mobility concerns. The user weight capacity is a nice 325 lbs, higher than comparable treadmills, proving the 7.0 AT’s solid build.

As our pick for the best treadmill under $1000, the Horizon 7.0 AT sports exciting performance features. It has a 15% incline, making it the best incline on this list. It has a 0.5 to 12 mph range. Perhaps most importantly, it has a 3.0 HP motor, so you can fully use these ranges without prematurely wearing out the motor. The 7.0 AT is a good treadmill for low-mileage running and frequent walking.

Interval training is uncomplicated on the Horizon 7.0 AT. Horizon has equipped their treadmills with QuickDial controls, allowing walkers and runners to change the speed or incline fast. The 7.0 AT places these dials almost in the path of a runner’s arm swing, so you hardly have to interrupt your workout to make the adjustment. The 7.0 AT has one of the fastest accelerations and incline changes of any treadmill. This is effective for training with third-party content. No subscription is required to work out with the 7.0! Yet, it makes streaming entertainment or training content a breeze.

Read Our Full Review Of The Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill Here

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Best iFIT Treadmill Under $1000: ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill

The ProForm Carbon TLX doesn’t make you pay for another screen when you probably already have multiple lying around. The TLX pairs with the iFIT app on your phone or tablet to get you into outdoor classes that automatically adjust the speed and incline. An iFIT membership is free for the first 30 days and then renews with a monthly or annual subscription. For dedicated walkers and runners who need a little guidance for their workout, the Carbon TLX is a great budget pick.

Don’t be fooled by the ProForm TLX’s lack of touchscreen display. This treadmill was made to work with the iFIT training platform. There are no onboard programs, and you need an iFIT account to unlock the treadmill for its first use. You don’t have to subscribe to continue to use the treadmill, but it’s a good idea to test iFIT out for the 30-day free trial.

iFIT is a fitness service with thousands of video classes filmed outdoors for the treadmill. They are guided by one of iFIT’s brilliant trainers as they walk or run beautiful trails and running routes. You can even follow the iFIT coach as they tackle races like the Boston Marathon. There are series to join and challenges to conquer. With the ProForm TLX, the speed and incline adjust to the preset levels (though you can override these settings) to create an immersive workout experience.

The ProForm Carbon TLX is a running treadmill. It has a 20” x 60” running deck and a 3.0 CHP motor. The maximum speed is 12 miles per hour. The incline range is from 0 to 12%, so no decline on this machine. The TLX uses ProShox Cushioning, but it feels rather firm to me. I recommend it for users who want to recreate the road running feeling.

The steel folding frame is covered by a 10-year warranty. Parts and labor are covered for just 1 year. The treadmill feels very sturdy and can support a maximum user weight of 300 lbs. It weighs 249 lbs as it comes shipped. When assembled, the treadmill is not too hard to tilt and move around.

Read Our Full Review Of The ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill Here

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Best Folding Treadmill Under $1000: Sunny Health & Fitness Energy Flex Motorized Treadmill

The Sunny Health & Fitness Energy Flex Motorized Treadmill is a very affordable treadmill. Sunny is known for their budget-friendly cardio equipment. I chose the Energy Flex treadmill out of their range because it has a compact folding, automatic incline, and a larger deck than many of their other affordable treadmills.

The Energy Flex Motorized Treadmill is named for its soft and bouncy treadmill deck. I suspect that the treadmill deck is quite thin to allow this amount of flex. That is great for shock absorption, but it may not be as durable. It has a 240-lb weight limit which is lower than most other treadmills on this list but not bad.

The deck is 51.5 inches long and 18 inches wide. This more compact size minimizes the treadmill’s footprint, but some runners may not have enough room for their stride. The step-up height is only 5.63 inches, making it really easy to get onto the treadmill deck. At its maximum incline of 10.7%, the treadmill deck is 10.39 inches off of the ground. When folded, it is very compact. To let the deck down, just use the kick release and the deck will softly lower thanks to the hydraulics.

The maximum treadmill speed is 10 miles per hour. Sunny states that this treadmill was designed for walking and running. It only has a 2.5 peak HP motor, so it is best for light running. If you are training for a marathon or other long-distance event, this treadmill may not be durable enough to support your level of training.

This treadmill has preset programs that adjust the speed and incline automatically. Most of the preset programs include running speeds. Be cautious and consult the manual for more details on the programs before choosing one for the first time, especially if you do not want to run. There are more workout programs available on the SunnyFit app. You can follow those workouts on your phone or tablet by setting your device in the device rack. You can also connect to the speakers to listen to the audio.

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Best Amazon Treadmill Under $1000: NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill

The NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill is one of the most affordable NordicTrack treadmills. It does not have a built-in screen, so it does not require iFIT, but you can subscribe to the service for more training options. For a treadmill this small and affordable, I was surprised that it had the speed and incline range that it does. New runners and walkers should consider the NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill, available on Amazon.

The NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill is from the notorious brand’s affordable Amazon line. It does not have the flashy smart features like NordicTrack’s other features. Still, it uses Bluetooth to connect to the iFIT app on your phone or tablet. You may have to connect initially with iFIT to unlock the treadmill whether or not you plan to subscribe,

iFIT has thousands of treadmill classes led by professional coaches. The T Series 5 Treadmill’s speed and incline automatically adjust to help you train hands-free. The incline range is 0 to 10%, and the speed range is 0 to 10 miles per hour. These specs are not quite as impressive as NordicTrack’s pricier machines, but it is a great value for the price.

This treadmill is suitable for walking and light running. It may not be the best option for runners who are training for hours every day. The motor is only 2.6 continuous horsepower. The deck is 55 inches long and 18 inches wide. The deck is more compact than the standard home treadmill, but most runners should be able to jog comfortably. Runners running faster with a longer stride may have more difficulty with this treadmill.

The T Series 5 Treadmill has a 10-year warranty on the frame. There is a 1-year warranty on the labor and parts. The maximum user weight is 300 lbs. For its size and price, I’m quite pleased with what this treadmill has to offer.

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Best Compact Treadmill Under $1000: WalkingPad R2 2in1 Foldable Treadmill

What treadmill could be more compact than one that folds twice? The WalkingPad R2 folds nearly into a square for one of the smallest treadmill storage options we have seen. Yet, the R2 still provides a machine sturdy enough for petite users or those with shorter strides to run! Step into the future with this silver and black foldable treadmill.

The WalkingPad R2 2in1 Foldable Treadmill gets the “2in1” portion of its name from its walking and running modes. While in Walking mode, the treadmill folds out to extend the belt, but the console and handrail bar can be folded down during use. This allows the treadmill to act as an under-desk treadmill. The maximum speed while the treadmill is in walking mode is 3.75 mph. The handrail can be lifted to the upright position for running mode. The handrail’s height is adjustable, so you can find a position that is comfortable for you. The maximum running speed is 7.45 mph. This way, you can get your run in or walk at your desk comfortably. Who needs two treadmills when one can do it all?

The extremely compact design is one of the most appealing aspects of the R2. It can be stored flat or upright. So you can put it in your closet or under your bed. It had a height of 6.3” when lying flat and folded. I can handle users up to 240 lbs, though the treadmill is only 80 lbs. Its light weight makes it easy to move around your home, so you can keep it out of sight. If you prefer not to move it so frequently, the sleek silver colorway and folding belt make the treadmill a futuristic addition to your living space.

WalkingPad pays attention to the details. The compact design only allows for narrow foot rails, which are textured to ensure your step is stable. The treadmill is remote-controlled, so you don’t have to have the console bar propped up to change speed. The R2 does have a device rack for placing your phone. The phone rack doubles as a storage box for storing the safety clip when the treadmill is not in use. The WalkingPad R2 2in1 Foldable Treadmill allows you to exercise in an unobtrusive and versatile manner.

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Best Walking Treadmill Under $1000: Horizon T101 Treadmill

The Horizon T101 is frequently our choice for the best walking treadmill. It also ranks highly as one of the most budget-friendly and compact treadmills. The T101 may not be the ideal choice for a runner due to its weaker motor. The construction is not quite durable enough for long-distance running, but it is more than enough for walking.

Horizon is not a brand to be overlooked. Their treadmills have impressive warranties and low prices. They also have quiet and quick-adjusting treadmills. The Horizon T101 is their most affordable treadmill. It has a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor. Parts and labor are only covered for 1 year.

As a part of the Go series, the T101 was designed for walkers who wanted to dive into their workout as quickly as possible. The console is simple and easy to navigate. It’s as easy as turning on the treadmill and pressing go.

There are built-in programs for the Horizon T101. It does not require a subscription. These programs are pretty basic and include targets like calories and distance as well as fat burn, hill climb, intervals, and manual. You can also use the device rack to stream training and entertainment content. The EasyDial controls make it simple to adjust your speed and incline to keep up with third-party training.

The T101 has a maximum speed of 10 miles per hour and a maximum incline of 10%. It does not decline. The motor is a 2.5 horsepower and adjusts the speed and incline very quickly. The deck is 20” x 55”, so not quite as long as most residential running treadmill decks. The treadmill can support a maximum user weight of 300 lbs. The treadmill weighs only 180 lbs and has transport wheels which make it easy to move around. These specs combine to make the T101 a great option for walking. The treadmill does not perform as well for running, particularly for larger users due to its size and power.

Read Our Full Review Of The Horizon T101 Treadmill Here

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Best NordicTrack Treadmill Under $1000: NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill

The NordicTrack T 6.5 S is available (currently) through Amazon. NordicTrack no longer carries the T series through their own website, but you can still find them at Amazon for a very affordable price. This treadmill comes equipped with iFIT and adjustable cushioning.

NordicTrack is renowned for its trustworthy fitness equipment and fun integration with iFIT premium content. iFIT has thousands of classes and series for on- and off-treadmill training. The T 6.5 S has a device rack for placing your smart device. With the iFIT app paired, the treadmill can automatically adjust the speed and incline for hands-free training. If you prefer not to use iFIT, the tablet rack will help you view entertainment.
For the music lovers out there with phones that support aux cords, the T 6.5 S has an aux port. This allows you to play your music or entertainment through the treadmill speakers. Cruise along to some tunes as you would on the road, or turn the dial on the deck to engage the treadmill deck dampeners. This will increase the amount of shock absorption. The T 6.5 S has features for performance and entertainment.

The console has an LCD screen with an array of tactile buttons. The alloy steel frame The T 6.5 S Treadmill has a 10% maximum incline and a 10 mph speed cap. This allows a good range of training. The deck is 20” x 55”, accommodating all but the longest strides. The weight capacity is 300 lbs, the industry standard.

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Best Space-Saving Treadmill Under $1000: XTERRA WS300 WalkSlim Treadmill

The WalkSlim WS300 is a super-compact treadmill that folds flat. It has a smaller footprint than most home treadmills. The WalkSlim WS300 is great for walkers who want an affordable and minimal treadmill. I’ve been really impressed with the quality and durability of XTERRA’s treadmills, so the WS300 was an easy pick for this award.

The WS300 WalkSlim Treadmill’s console folds down to the deck. There is a grab bar at the back of the deck to make it easy to lift the treadmill onto its front transport wheels. The treadmill weighs only 120 lbs, so it’s easy to roll around. The treadmill is only 8.5 inches tall when folded down, so it could be stored under furniture with a high clearance. The frame is covered by a lifetime warranty, but parts and labor are only covered for 90 days.

This little treadmill has 10 levels of incline and a maximum speed of 8 miles per hour. I did not expect performance metrics like this on the WS300, and I am very pleased with them. The WS300 may not be the best treadmill for running due to its compact deck size of 16 inches wide by 50 inches long. This may not be enough room for many runners. Additionally, it has a 2.5 HP motor which is lower than our recommendation (3 HP) for running treadmills. Still, some runners may be able to train on the WS300.

Fitness Machine Service Protocol (FTMS) allows cardio equipment to connect to third-party apps. Using Bluetooth and FTMS, the WS300 can connect with Zwift or Kinomap. So even though you don’t have onboard training programs with the WS300, you can connect to several apps through your phone. The WS300 has a device shelf to easily view your screen.

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Best Compact Running Treadmill Under $1000: WalkingPad X21 Treadmill

The WalkingPad X21 is a compact little treadmill designed for walking and running. It folds twice to be small enough to fit in a closet or behind furniture. It’s so small you are in danger of forgetting about it! WalkingPad is a brand nearly synonymous with super compact treadmills. The X21 surprised us with how well it held up to running.

The WalkingPad X21 is super compact. The deck folds in half and then the whole deck folds up onto the motor hood beneath the console. It has transport wheels so you can roll it around. I just wish the wheels were omnidirectional or there were a set of horizontal wheels too. It’s not as easy to slide sideways. It weighs only 93 lbs, so it is very easy to relocate.

I logged several miles of running on the WalkingPad X21 Treadmill. The X21 is the perfect treadmill for runners who don’t have the space or budget for anything else. The 7.5 mph maximum speed is just enough for easy or steady runs. The deck is only 18” x 48” so you don’t want to sprint on this machine anyway. The speed is controlled by the dial on the crossbar. I really liked using the dial; it felt intuitive to use.

I could feel the seam of the deck underfoot while I was running. It bothered me when I first started running. After a while, it was less noticeable. If you wear high cushion shoes, it will be even less noticeable.

The console has a phone rack. I used my phone to follow training content from iFIT and Peloton while on the X21. The height of the console makes it hard to actually watch the video, but I could hear the coach and access my phone easily. The X21 does not incline, so you can only follow the speed cues. I didn’t mind that tradeoff for this more compact construction. Overall, I was really pleased with my runs on the X21 given how small it is.

Read Our Full Review Of The WalkingPad X21 Treadmill Here

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What To Look for In Treadmills Under $1000

Construction

The Horizon 7.0 AT is an affordable treadmill with a lifetime warranty on its frame and motor.

These treadmills are not our cheapest treadmill category, but they are only one step away. This means buyers should be extra cautious of their purchases. At any price point, treadmill shoppers should be considerate of the build of the treadmill they are contemplating. No matter how much money is saved up front, a treadmill that breaks down too quickly becomes a waste. Some hallmarks of good treadmills are a steel frame, long warranties, and the ability to support running. If a treadmill works for running, it is built to withstand higher forces.

Motors

The ProForm Carbon TLX meets our recommended 3 HP standard for running treadmills.

Many of the motors on treadmills in this category fall under 3.0 HP. This is our chosen threshold for running treadmills. I don’t mind treadmills between 2.5 and 3.0 HP for occasional or low-mileage running. These types of treadmills work better for smaller runners, as their decks are often narrower or shorter. 2.0 HP or higher works great for frequent walking use.

Features

Skipping high-tech features can save you money. Consider a low-tech treadmill like the Horizon T101.

It is not impossible to find high-tech features implemented on treadmills under $1k. These treadmills have USB chargers, Bluetooth connectivity, or automatic training adjustments. It’s hard to find a treadmill that bundles everything into one in this category, so I recommend identifying what is most important to you. A good way to do this is to plan how you would like to train–watching training content, listening to music, watching entertainment, reading on a Kindle, or just exercising–and identify what features are necessary for making this happen. Don’t overlook things like water bottle holders and storage. The main focus of a cardio machine is enabling you to work out successfully. These storage compartments can be a sure way to do so.

Training Content

NordicTrack and ProForm treadmills expand their training options by connecting with the iFIT app on your phone or tablet.

Many of these treadmills do not require paid content to access all of their features. Sure, they have mostly basic training programs, but many walkers or runners might not want this content. Even if you do, you may be satisfied accessing it through your phone or tablet rather than straight from the machine. I had nearly as much fun training on Horizon’s Go series treadmills with Peloton content as I did on the Peloton Tread itself.

Treadmills under a grand can be a great way to save money on the machine to splurge on the content. You may even want training plans from a running coach near you. Whether you go this route, try Peloton or iFIT, or pave your own way, these treadmills can help you get there. I recommend having a device rack on your machine, because it’s easy not to use; however, it is hard to find an alternative if your treadmill does not come with one.

Storage/Portability

The WalkingPad X21 is super compact and easy to fold.

These entry-level treadmills have the added benefit of being compact and portable. They have smaller footprints, taking up far less space than their pricier (and bulkier) counterparts. Treadmills like the XTERRA WS300 or the WalkingPad R2 2in1 can be shoved under a bed or even stored in a closet. If you are tight on space, these treadmills can save you the square footage and some money!

How We Test Treadmills

We do our best to be as thorough in our review process as possible. We walk and run on these treadmills. We test out their onboard training content and any subscription training services they might have. To test how portable the treadmill is, we move them around (or try to). We do everything we can to recreate how you will use the treadmill. Our testing and review process also includes testing the treadmill noise and motor responsiveness. We measure deck thickness, step-up height, and more. Our goal is to give you confidence in your treadmill purchase.

Bottom Line – Best Treadmills Under $1000

Treadmills under $1000 can still deliver fantastic workouts. They require a little more planning to ensure you get the features you need, but they have a lot of variety. These treadmills make a great supplement to an already robust training plan or a great entry point for getting into fitness. They appeal to serious athletes looking for a quick and easy training solution when all else fails or a daily training tool for athletes of all varieties. I recommend treadmills in this category to the budget-minded shopper ready to demolish their fitness goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do treadmills go on sale?

The best time of the year to buy a treadmill (financially) is around the holidays. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and New Year’s are excellent times to shop for most things, but fitness brands, in particular, know consumers have fitness goals on their minds after enjoying all the tasty food the season brings. Many brands update their models for the new year, so be on the lookout for discounts at the end of the year. Brands like to clear out old stock to prepare for the new models. Sales typically accompany other holidays, like President’s Day, Labor Day, the 4th of July, and Memorial Day. You can also find sales around important running events like the Olympics or the Boston Marathon.

Though some times of the year are better than others for buying treadmills at their lowest prices, a treadmill is also an investment in your health. Buying a treadmill while motivated to exercise is a good way to establish a habit. Additionally, there is no time like the present to make life improvements. What could be expensive now can contribute to reduced medical and health expenses.

Do you really need an expensive treadmill?

Pardon the dad joke, but technically, you only need food, water, and shelter. More cardio-specific, you only need a place to walk/run, motivation, and (maybe) good shoes. Jokes aside, what you need in a treadmill comes down to your training methods. If you are training for a marathon competitively, running high mileage, and planning to do it all on the treadmill, you might need a nice treadmill. However, if you are trying to hit a modest step goal of 10,000 steps or less, all you might need is a treadmill with a working belt.

Evaluating your training preferences, what motivates you, and your space allowance can help you decide which treadmill is right for you. For some, that might mean investing in an expensive treadmill with a large screen and access to streaming apps. For others, it means the treadmills on this list are more than enough!

How long do treadmills last?

This is an extremely difficult question to answer. A quick survey of treadmill users says treadmills last an average of 10 years (+/- 5 years). But this data includes users who had treadmills last only a year to users who had a treadmill last over two decades. It’s also difficult to say what “lasting” means. Some users rigorously care for their treadmills and replace parts as needed. If you don’t want to start a game of phone tag or an email chain with treadmill customer service departments, a dead treadmill might be the first time something goes wrong.

Many factors affect treadmills’ lifespans. Regular care and proper use can extend the life of a treadmill, but sometimes things just go wrong. How much you use the treadmill can impact its longevity. If you run a lot or have a household with multiple intense users, your treadmill might wear out because you put so many miles on it. Contrarily, you might leave your treadmill unused for very long periods, and something can malfunction due to lack of use or not noticing that something is wrong. Warranties can be a good way to safeguard against a treadmill’s premature death. Remember to make sure what the warranty does and does not cover.

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