Features

7/10

Tech Specs

8/10

Build Quailty

7/10

Treadmill Review

Last Updated: 9-20-2022

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!

Who The NordicTrack EXP 7i is Built For

Walkers

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/Runners

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.

Goal-Setters

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!

Why We Love the NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill

Price

The price of the EXP 7i is quite reasonable, considering the features that are included and the quality of the machine. Most treadmills with such features tend to be much higher in price, so we are excited about the price of this treadmill.

High-Tech Features

With the 7” touchscreen, a free 30 day iFit membership, smart-response motor, and Bluetooth capabilities, this treadmill is equipped with features that most treadmills in this price range do not include.

Length of Belt

The length of the treadmill is a great feature, especially because it is longer than the NordicTrack T 6.5 Si. It measures 60” long, which allows for more room to walk or run, even for taller athletes.

Motor Size

The EXP 7i is equipped with a 3.0 CHP motor, which is larger than the T 6.5 Si, which has a 2.6 CHP motor, and slightly smaller than the 10i that has a 3.5 CHP motor. The size of the motor not only matters for power but also how well it will run for consistent usage. The motor on the EXP 7i will allow for plenty of miles and a relatively high weight capacity. We think it’s pretty impressive considering how compact the machine is.

Compact Size

The EXP 7i is equipped with a 3.0 CHP motor, which is larger than the T 6.5 Si, which has a 2.6 CHP motor, and slightly smaller than the 10i that has a 3.5 CHP motor. The size of the motor not only matters for power but also how well it will run for consistent usage. The motor on the EXP 7i will allow for plenty of miles and a relatively high weight capacity. We think it’s pretty impressive considering how compact the machine is.

Limitations And Things To Consider Before Purchasing The EXP 7i Treadmill

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!

How Much Does the NordicTrack EXP 7i Cost?

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.

NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill Model Overview

Footprint: 77.3” L x 35.3” W x 59.6” H
Folded Footprint: 34” L x 45” W x 70” H
Belt: 20” x 60” Commercial Tread Belt
Weight of Machine: 222lbs in box
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
Motor: 3.0 CHP Smart-Response Motor
Cushioning: FlexSelect technology
Speed: 0-12 mph
Incline: 0-12%
One-touch Controls: Yes
Speakers: Yes, 2-inch digitally amplified speakers
Warranty: 10-Year Frame Warranty, 2-Year Parts Warranty, 1-Year Labor Warranty
Return Policy: 30 days

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.

Features & Accessories on the NordicTrack EXP 7i

Screen: 7-inch HD Smart touchscreen
Wifi: Yes
Speakers: Yes
Bluetooth: Yes
Fans: Yes, AutoBreeze workout fan
USB Port: No
HDMI Port: No
Cup holders: Yes
Accessory Tray: Yes
Tablet holder: No
Built-in workouts: No
Subscription: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: No
Apple Health Compatible: No
Chromecast/Apple TV Compatible: No
Automatic Trainer Control: Yes

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.

NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill Subscription Service

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.

Bottom Line Review of the NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill

Here at Treadmill Reviews, we are convinced this treadmill is going to be a hit. Whether you are a walker, jogger, or light runner looking for some extra motivation and trainer-led workouts, this is one to consider. If you are a larger rider or have joint pain, this treadmill may not be the best option since the cushioning is minimal and the belt size is relatively smaller than other treadmills on the market. But, considering its insanely affordable cost, compact design, techy features, and motor size, we think the EXP 7i is a seriously great option for a home treadmill.
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