The best treadmill reviews you can trust
The NordicTrack EXP 7i treadmill is a new treadmill in the entry level NordicTrack lineup and seems to be replacing their T Series treadmills. It is the middle ground between the NordicTrack T 6.5 Si and the EXP 10i and is a solid, cost-effective option for at-home use. Check out all the reasons we love it and some things to consider in the review below!
View Sale Price
The NordicTrack EXP 7i treadmill is an exciting new treadmill introduced this year in the NordicTrack lineup. Its budget-friendly price, high-tech integrations, and compact design make it desirable for many types of users. If you are looking for a basic, well-built machine with built-in trainers and workouts that doesn’t break the bank, this may be a great fit for you!
This treadmill is equipped with an incline of up to 12%, allowing walkers to be able to hike uphill to build strength and endurance without sacrificing joint pain from running. This incline is higher than the 6.5 Si but lower than some of the other high-end NordicTrack treadmills. But it is plenty of incline range for most people.
Joggers and runners will be able to enjoy this workout since it has a 3.0 CHP Smart-Response Motor. This is powerful enough for consistent usage. The treadmill is considered “smart” because it will automatically adjust inclines and speeds while participating in the online IFit coach-led classes and outdoor scenic runs.
Because of the 7-inch touchscreen and integrated IFit system that allows for endless varieties of workouts, storing of stats, and online communities and leaderboards, we think this treadmill is a great option for those goal-setters and people looking to achieve specific fitness goals. Stay motivated and get into the best shape of your life without getting bored from running in place!
There are a few things to consider before purchasing your EXP 7i. Here at Treadmill Reviews, we like to be as transparent as possible so that you know what you are getting with your purchase. It’s important to note that these things are not deal-breakers by any means, especially with how cost-effective this machine is! They are simply some considerations to make.
Road-Like Feel: While the EXP 7i does include Flexselect cushioning technology which provides some cushioning, we find that it has a hard road-like-feel compared to some other NordiTrack machines like the 1750. This may be more noticeable while jogging, sprinting, or if you are larger.
Screen size: We are pleased that this treadmill comes with tech, especially considering the price, but the screen is quite small at 7 inches. This makes it harder to navigate, especially while running. Also, the location of the screen is high, so if you are a shorter runner or walker, the positioning may be a bit uncomfortable. However, it does tilt, making it easier to position based on your height.
Setup time: Based on our experience, the actual setup of the machine can take anywhere from 2-3 hours, which seems longer than expected for a basic machine like this. But, once it is set up, you will be pleased with the way it operates!
Price: At the time of this review, the EXP 7i is listed around $1100. This includes a 30 day subscription to IFit.
This does not include shipping, which is an additional $199.
Footprint: We are pleased with the footprint of the NordicTrack EXP 7i. It is compact, yet provides a long 60” commercial belt which is longer than the T 6.5 Si and therefore feels more safe and comfortable. Plus, its SpaceSaver design and EasyLift assist make the footprint even smaller if you need to store it away for more floor space at home.
Belt: We love the fact this treadmill has a longer belt than the T 6.5 Si to allow for longer strides, but the 20” width may feel a bit tight for larger, taller runners. If you are worried about the width of this machine, you may consider the NordicTrack 1750, which has a more comfortable 22” width. Though you will pay up to $600 for it.
Weight Capacity:The weight capacity on this treadmill is 300lbs, which we think is reasonable for the size of the machine.
Motor: The 3.0 CHP motor is built to withstand consistent usage for walkers and joggers. It has more power than the 2.6 CHP on the T 6.5 Si and is less powerful than the 3.5 CHP on the EXP 10i. If you plan on using your treadmill consistently for walks and runs, this motor will have enough power to push you through your workouts.
Cushioning: FlexSelect cushioning technology is meant to soften the impact and create a real road-like feel. While it does provide some cushioning, we noticed that other models provided better cushioning. But, considering the low price, we are pleased there is cushioning included. The cool thing about FlexSelect is that users can adjust the cushioning of the T 6.5 Si to suit their preferences. All that needs to be done is to turn the orange shock absorbers located directly along the sides of the T 6.5 Si to your preferred cushioning level. So, whether you want the top cushioning or want more resistance while working out, the T 6.5 Si will protect your joints from impact while allowing you to set your ideal cushion level. Just be aware that if you are larger and have joint pain, it may be better to consider a higher-end NordicTrack model that provides more cushioning.
Speed/Incline: We are pleased to see the incline and speed increased to 12 mph and 12% on this model, compared to the 10 mph and 10% on the T 6.5 Si. This allows for more variety and workouts that will burn calories, build muscle, and increase endurance using different muscle groups. While other models do go up to 15, we think 12 is plenty for the price and features of this machine.
Screen: We are happy that NordicTrack included an HD touchscreen on this budget-friendly treadmill. This makes this new treadmill stand out next to other competitors in its price range. However, we find the 7-inch to be quite small. It takes some coordination to run and touch the screen at the same time. Also, it is located quite high on the console, potentially making it difficult for smaller users to see it easily. However, the screen does tilt, allowing for different heights. We hope that they can increase the size to 10” like the T 6.5 Si and EXP 10i.
Wifi: Like many new machines, this treadmill will require power and a wifi connection to access all that it has to offer.
Speakers: The speakers on the EXP 7i are loud and clear. We noticed an improvement from the T 6.5 Si.
Bluetooth: The EXP 10i has multiple Bluetooth capabilities such as connection to your wireless headphones, device, and can even play your favorite music or movie audio from its speakers. We like this touch, as some machines do not allow for personal music to be played on their speakers.
Built-in workouts: New NordicTrack models do not include pre-programmed or built-in workouts, just the classes, and workouts within IFit!
Heart rate monitor: The EXP 7i does not come with a heart rate monitor nor EKG pulse grips. However, if you have your own heart rate monitor, it can connect via Bluetooth.
Automatic Trainer Control: While you are working out with your trainer on IFit, the treadmill will automatically incline, decline, speed up and slow down based on the class and terrain. We love this feature because it requires less focus on changing your settings and more focus on breathing through your workouts.
Name: IFit
Description: IFit is an integrated subscription service that is located on the HD touchscreen. It provides an endless growing library of workouts, terrains, and workout classes for running, walking, yoga, and even strength training. IFit is expansive, user-friendly, and provides a welcoming environment for new and seasoned users.
Cost: Free for 30 days with purchase of EXP 7i, then it’s either $39/mo or $396 for a Family Plan or $180 for an Individual plan per year.
