Best treadmills under $1,000: Options and alternatives

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People can find treadmills suitable for walking and running that cost under $1,000. Some feature workout programs, but features are more limited compared with more expensive treadmills.
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This article explores running machines under $1,000 and their health benefits, alternatives, and more.
Best for small spaces: ProForm City L6
ProForm City L6
Best for connectivity: Horizon Fitness T101
Horizon Fitness T101
Best under-desk treadmill: Urevo Strol Lite 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill
Urevo Strol Lite 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill
Best for workout modes: OMA 1017EB
OMA 1017EB
Best foldable: Schwinn 810 Treadmill
Schwinn 810 Treadmill
Best for affordable features: Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill
Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill
Best for a budget: XTERRA Fitness TR 150 Folding Treadmill
XTERRA Fitness TR 150 Folding Treadmill
Why choose a treadmill?
Treadmills have a motorized belt that moves underneath a person’s feet, allowing them to walk, jog, or run. They offer a convenient option for regular indoor exercise.
When a person starts using a treadmill, general recommendations state that they follow these tips:
start slowly
swing their arms freely rather than holding onto the rails
look straight ahead
anticipate being disorientated when stepping off the treadmill for the first few times
always wear suitable and supportive footwear
People can usually control the speed of a treadmill, while some models may feature heart rate monitors and step counters. Treadmills that include extra functions may cost more.
A person may wear a physical activity tracker to track their steps when exercising. However, a 2020 study highlights that they are less accurate when using a treadmill than when walking outdoors.
2020 study
Possible disadvantages of a treadmill include the following:
taking up a lot of space
may require a professional to repair
limited exercises as it can only be used for walking and running
may be noisy
How we chose
Medical News Today chooses fitness equipment that meets the following criteria:
Price: MNT chooses products available for a wide range of budgets.
Size and capacity: MNT selects products to suit people of different heights, weights, and strengths.
Connectivity: When equipment has fitness memberships or subscriptions, MNT ensures variation in classes and services that benefit a person’s health.
Materials: MNT chooses products that have safe and durable materials that are easy to clean and maintain.
Ease of use: MNT selects simple-to-use products that have clear instructions. If setup is complicated, MNT chooses brands that offer a set-up or installation service.
Quality: MNT chooses companies that adhere to high quality manufacturing processes that ensure its products are safe for personal use.
Reputable: MNT chooses products from businesses that adhere to industry best practices and offer reliable customer service and support.
List of treadmills under $1,000
Below is a list of treadmills that a person can purchase for under $1,000 each.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Learn more here
ProForm City L6
Price: around $599
Dimensions (LxWxH): 70.25 x 29 x 44.5 inches (in)
Speeds: 0–8 mph
Incline levels: not listed
Key features: foldable, Bluetooth enabled, offers classes with subscription
ProForm offers customers the opportunity to pay in monthly installments.
A 30-day iFit trial membership also comes bundled with the treadmill, allowing access to personal trainers, studio workouts, and fitness tracking.
An iFit subscription costs $39 per month after the trial ends.
This model folds up for easy storage, and it has a tablet holder so a person can use a device while working out.
The maximum weight capacity is 250 pounds (lb). Additional features of the ProForm City L6 include:
a top speed of 8 mph
1.6 horsepower (hp) motor that stays cool and quiet during use
10-year frame warranty and 1-year parts and labor warranty
30-day return policy
Reviews on the company website show that buyers appreciated the easy setup. However, some noted delays in shipping and that they would like it to connect to an Apple Watch.
The pros of this treadmill are:
affordable
compact
easy to assemble
foldable
The cons of this treadmill are:
does not connect to Apple Watches
some users experience shipping delays
no incline options
low maximum speed
SHOP NOW AT PROFORM
Horizon Fitness T101
Price: around $999
Dimensions (LxWxH): 71 x 34 x 57 in
Speeds: 0.5–10 mph
Incline levels: 0–10%
Key features: integrated speakers, USB charging, three-zone cushioning, fan
Horizon claims that the Fitness T101 is the company’s best-selling treadmill, which a person can set up in around 30 minutes.
Horizon
This model features a maximum speed of 10 mph, with a maximum user weight of 300 lb. People can fold it up and store it away when not in use.
The Horizon Fitness T101 includes integrated speakers and can connect to any Bluetooth device. It also has a built-in device holder and USB charging point.
Additional features of the Horizon Fitness T101 include:
three-zone cushioning system
2.5 hp motor
lifetime home and motor warranty and 1-year parts and labor warranty
contact grips to measure heart rate
0–10% incline range
Reviewers appreciated the relatively low price for all the included features. Buyers also enjoyed the lengthy warranty. Negative reviews focused on delivery problems, improper assembly, and poor customer service.
The pros of this treadmill are:
integrated speakers and Bluetooth connectivity
supports users weighing up to 300 lb
lifetime frame and motor warranty
The cons of this treadmill are:
some users reported problems with delivery
defective or missing parts
some users report spontaneous stopping and starting
SHOP NOW AT HORIZON FITNESS
Urevo Strol Lite 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill
Price: around $469.99
Dimensions (LxWxH): 54.7 x 26.4 x 5.1 in
Speeds: 0–7.6 mph
Incline levels: none
Key features: exercise metrics display, phone holder, foldable design
This treadmill is for people who wish to exercise while they work. It may be suitable for people with a standing desk.
A person can run up to 7.6 mph and walk up to 3.8 mph.
It features an LED display and remote control to track time, distance, speed, and calories. A person can use the remote control to change the speed and stop the machine. There is also a device holder, although it is only suitable for smartphones up to 7.67 in.
It has a 2.5 hp motor, and the machine’s upper weight limit is 265 lb.
The company writes the treadmill comes fully assembled. It has a foldable design and wheels so a person can easily move it into storage.
Positive reviews stated the customer service team is helpful and the treadmill is good for occasional use, especially for exercise during the work day. However, some buyers noted the machine may overheat.
The pros of this treadmill are:
can fit under a desk
wide running surface
very affordable
foldable design
The cons of this treadmill are:
low top speed
device holder is only suitable for smaller phones
reports of overheating
no incline levels
SHOP NOW AT AMAZON
OMA 1017EB
Price: around $599.99
Dimensions (LxWxH): 61 x 32.5 x 6 in
Speeds: up to 8.7 mph
Incline levels: none
Key features: around 36 programs, LCD screens, device holder, heart rate sensor
This treadmill features two touchscreen LCD screens. These show speed, time, distance, pulse, and calories burned. There are 36 exercise programs and three cool-down programs.
The company claims to use an eight-layer running belt that cushions the impact on a person’s joints. The machine has an upper weight limit of 300 lb.
Its highest speed is 8.7 mph and has a running surface of 17.7 by 48 in. The 2.5 hp motor quietly powers the treadmill.
A person can monitor their heart rate, change the speed, or stop and start the machine with sensors and buttons on the handlebars.
Positive reviews comment that the hydraulic lift and drop make the treadmill easy to move and that it is very easy to assemble and use. Negative reviews said it squeaked after very light use and was uncomfortable for walking or running.
The pros of this treadmill are:
hydraulic lift and drop mechanism
tracks a range of exercise metrics
36 exercise modes
The cons of this treadmill are:
some buyers found this machine too noisy
some customers did not find it comfortable
others report it is unsuitable for taller people
SHOP NOW AT AMAZON
Schwinn 810 Treadmill
Price: around $899
Dimensions (LxWxH): 69.1 x 35.6 x 56.7 in
Speeds: 10 mph
Incline levels: 10% motorized incline
Key features: integrated Bluetooth, roomy running belt dimensions, relatively quiet motor
This treadmill is designed to be affordable and useful for people throughout their fitness journeys. It has 16 exercise programs and can accommodate two user profiles. It has a 20 x 55 in running deck and can reach speeds up to 10 mph, with a 10% motorized incline feature.
A blue backlit LCD makes it easy for users to track their workout progress. People can also check their heart rates by grasping the unit’s heart rate contact grips.
A media shelf, water bottle holders, cooling fan, and a USB charging port help users stay connected, cool, and hydrated while they exercise. The length and width of the running belt offer users more room for intense cardio workouts than other at-home treadmills.
Schwinn’s proprietary SoftDrop folding system and transport wheels make this treadmill simple to fold and store.
Reviewers appreciated the size of the running belt, the sturdy design, and the value for money. Some users reported problems with assembly and getting spare parts.
The pros of this treadmill are:
integrated Bluetooth
foldable
55-in running belt means it is suitable for intense cardio for people up to 6 ft 2 in
feels sturdy
The cons of this treadmill are:
the motor is not quite powerful enough for larger users
no wireless heart rate monitoring
assembly required
SHOP NOW AT AMAZON
Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill
Price: about $789
Dimensions (LxWxH): 69 x 32 x 56 in
Speeds: up to 10 mph
Incline levels: 15 levels
Key features: built-in USB port and speakers
Information from the manufacturer describes the company’s commitment to making good quality exercise equipment as accessible as possible.
This lightweight, folding treadmill is equipped for people who like to listen to their phones or tablets while they work out. It has a built-in USB port that charges devices even as they play through the built-in speakers.
The treadmill comes with 15 pre-installed workouts and three workouts a user can customize. Controls in the handrails make it simple for users to adjust speed and incline during a workout. A 19 x 52 in running belt supports safety and comfortable movement. Additionally, the running deck is built for shock absorption.
The multi-function performance monitor tracks time, speed, distance, heart rate, and calories.
Transportation wheels and soft drop design make the unit simple to fold and store.
Users appreciated the many features and reasonable price of this treadmill. Negative reviews include problems with assembly, complaints about poor durability, and noisy operation.
The pros of this treadmill are:
moderate price
spacious running deck
supports users weighing up to 265 lb
The cons of this treadmill are:
reports that key parts may break quickly
reports of problems with customer service
some customers found this treadmill noisy
SHOP NOW AT AMAZON
XTERRA Fitness TR 150 Folding Treadmill
Price: around $384.99
Dimensions (LxWxH): 63.4 x 28.75 x 51.4 in
Speeds: up to 10 mph
Incline levels: 3 levels
Key features: modest price, roomy running deck, 12 pre-set programs, 5 in screen
With a running surface of 16 x 50 in and a 2.25 hp motor, this treadmill aims to make walking or running at home more comfortable and affordable.
This treadmill comes with 12 pre-set programs plus three manual incline settings. It has a 5-in LCD screen that tracks speed, incline, time, distance, calories, and pulse. Hand grip pulse sensors on the handlebars help users track additional vital signs.
The treadmill has three incline levels, which a user adjusts manually.
The company writes that its cushioned deck technology helps reduce the impact on joints. It is suitable for users weighing up to 250 lb.
Users will need to assemble the treadmill themselves and perform routine maintenance, such as oiling the belt. The treadmill folds with a pull knob release and built-in transport wheels. It weighs 108 lb.
Buyers found this treadmill very good value for money. However, negative reviews said the treadmill stopped working after a few months, and customer service was poor.
The pros of this treadmill are:
low price
roomy running deck
built-in transport wheels
bookrack and accessory holder
The cons of this treadmill are:
assembly required
only suitable for users weighing up to 250 lb
no documentation to explain how pre-set programs work
online reviews complain of poor durability
SHOP NOW AT AMAZON
Comparison
The table below compares each product in this article for price, features, and more.
ProForm
Horizon Fitness
Urevo
OMA
Schwinn
Sunny Health & Fitness
XTERRA Fitness
How to choose 
A person should consider the following factors when buying a new treadmill:
Price: The cost of a treadmill can vary considerably. A person should consider their budget and the features they can get for their ideal price range. They should also consider how often they will use the treadmill.
Features: With treadmills under $1,000, a person should expect fewer features. However, some feature exercise programs and some connectivity to online workout classes for a subscription fee.
Top speed: People who plan to use their treadmills for walking can opt for slower treadmills with less horsepower than those who want to use the treadmill for running. Top speeds on cheaper treadmills generally range from 7–10 mph.
Weight limit: All treadmills have an upper weight limit that typically ranges from 200–300 lb.
Running surface size: People have different stride lengths when walking and running. Taller people may wish to find a treadmill with a larger running surface.
Portability: People with smaller living spaces who want to move their treadmill into storage should consider treadmills with wheels and foldable designs.
Alternatives
Treadmills provide a person with aerobic exercise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides alternative examples of aerobic activity that do not include using a treadmill. These include:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
walking, running, or jogging outdoors
walking, running
water aerobics
cycling on level ground or uphill
cycling
swimming laps
swimming
playing doubles or singles tennis
pushing a lawnmower
playing basketball
Learn more about aerobic exercise here.
Learn more about aerobic exercise here.
Other pieces of home exercise equipment are also available for under $1,000.
Learn about cheap exercise bikes here.
Learn about cheap exercise bikes here.
Frequently asked questions about treadmills 
Below, we answer some of the top frequently asked questions about treadmills.
An effective treadmill can cost as little as $500. Online reviews are generally positive for more affordable treadmills, although some buyers raise concerns about durability. A person should consider the features they want and how regularly they will use the treadmill, as more expensive treadmills may withstand more intense use.
Selecting the best compact treadmill depends on an individual’s priorities. Key factors to consider include the cost, intended use, the size of the running surface, and the additional features a person wants.
Urevo sells an under-desk treadmill that has positive reviews and an affordable price.
Cheaper treadmills can be useful for people working with a smaller budget and those who do not want a treadmill for intense workout sessions. There are many positive online reviews for affordable treadmills, although some buyers complain about durability.
If a person wants a treadmill for running, cheaper treadmills may not offer the necessary speed or motor power. They may also not offer the durability to make them a worthwhile long-term investment.
Summary
A variety of brands sell treadmills for under $1,000. People may wish to compare online reviews from different sites to gain an overall idea of the pros and cons of a low cost running machine.