Your Guide to Finding the Best Treadmill Under $1000

If you’re looking to invest in a piece of cardio equipment for your home gym that won’t break the bank, there are plenty of affordable treadmill options out there that are great quality and will allow you to get a good sweat. Treadmills come in all different styles, sizes, and offer tons of options.

Obviously, some treadmills are far more expensive than $1,000, but if you’re just starting in fitness or you just want a solid cardio option for inclement weather days, check out our guide to finding the best treadmill under $1000.

We chose 6 of the best treadmills under $1000 based on our research, personal experience, and time spent pouring over reviews.

Our Top Picks

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What is the Best Treadmill Under $1000?

The best treadmill under 1,000 will depend on your personal preferences, desired usage, height/weight, space constraints and more.

Although $1,000 is considered a moderate investment, it’s still a healthy chunk of change for most of us. So, we compiled the below guide that will help you make the most informed decision before purchasing your treadmill. We want you to get the most bang for your buck!

Horizon Fitness T101 Treadmill

We’ll start our guide off with one of our favorite treadmills under $1,000, the T101 from Horizon Fitness. This is a sturdy, well-built machine that can perform for walkers, joggers, and runners alike.

It features a very reliable motor and their 3-zone Variable Response cushioning which helps absorb shock and protects your feet, hips, and body.

This machine features a ton of extras that can sometimes be lacking in this price range, including; Bluetooth speakers, integrated tablet holder, USB charging port, and a built-in fan. It’s also relatively compact in size and folds up easily.

Click here to learn more, read customer reviews, and check the price on Amazon.

NordicTrack T Series 6.5S Treadmill

With just one look at the reviews for the NordicTrack T Series 6.5S, you’ll know that this is a very popular choice within this price range. And it’s easy to see why; there are a ton of features!

NordicTrack managed to pack in a ton of tech upgrades without neglecting performance and comfort measures.

The top speed is 10mph and there’s a motorized incline that reaches 10%. The track is nicely cushioned, and it folds up easily with their Easy Lift assistance feature.

In addition, you can purchase the option that comes with one year of iFit, which many people who run or walk at home alone really seem to enjoy.

Click here to learn more, read customer reviews, and check the price on Amazon.

Fuel T4 Treadmill

The Fuel T4 comes in at the top of our list price-wise, but it’s still under the 1000 threshold. This treadmill reminds me of the high-quality machines you usually find at a commercial gym. It has the look and feel of a piece of professional gym equipment with top-of-the-line performance.

This treadmill is almost unmatched in this price range as it comes with Bluetooth connectivity, a top speed of 12mph, and an industry-leading max incline of 15%!

This is perfect for serious runners who want a treadmill that will stand up to hours of use while still maintaining its integrity and keeping your feet and legs cushioned.

Click here to learn more, read customer reviews, and check the price on Amazon.

NordicTrack C990 Treadmill

This treadmill has tons of features that make it well worth the investment. It features a 3.0 CHP motor, 20” x 60” running area and a large touch screen browser that’s compatible with iFit.

NordicTrack is known for great products and customer service and this option that comes in under a grand is another great product from the company. This treadmill works well for all fitness levels and workout types, from walking to sprinting.

Click here to learn more, read customer reviews, and check the price on Amazon.

ANCHEER Folding Treadmill

The ANCHEER folding treadmill has a ton to offer for a mid-range price. It’s included gel shock absorbers protect your body by reducing shock and also help keep this machine ultra-quiet.

This treadmill has an impressive motor for the price. In addition, the included Bluetooth technology helps it to compete with other pricier models.

Finally, the fold-up feature is ideal for those customers that are short on space but are still dedicated to their run.

Click here to learn more, read customer reviews, and check the price on Amazon.

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515 Treadmill

Another one of our top choices is the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515 model. This is a great all-around treadmill for walkers, joggers, and runners. Quick buttons easily allow you to change your incline from 0-12% and you can reach a top speed of 8 mph.

Some of the extras include Bluetooth, LCD monitor, body mass index calculator, foldability, and attached wheels for easy relocation.

Click here to learn more, read customer reviews, and check the price on Amazon.

Related: Best Fitness Trackers for Women

How to Select One of the Best Treadmills Under $1000

Finding the best treadmill under $1000 will require you to take inventory on what exactly you need your treadmill to do.

You should consider whether you plan on running, walking, or sprinting, and how many extra conveniences you’d like. Next, we’ll walk you through the factors you should consider during the selection process.

Determining Your Price Range

Like most anything in life, you get what you pay for. That said, you can still get a high-quality treadmill and spend less than $1000. In fact, you can even spend around $500 and still snag one that will perform perfectly well.

When you’re determining how much you’re willing to spend on a treadmill, take into account how often you plan to use it, what your realistic budget is, and how long you plan to keep it.

Type of Workout: Walking, Running, Sprinting

The type of workout you’re planning to perform should play a big role in your decision.

If you’re only planning to walk, every one of the treadmills on our list provides a great option. Walking is less impactful and doesn’t require a lot of speed.

If you’re planning to jog, run, and sprint, you’re better off choosing a treadmill that can support repetitive blows and absorb the shock.

Cushioning and Comfort

The level of cushioning and comfort you require in your treadmill will depend on both personal preference and workout type.

Again, if you’re planning to run and sprint, the constant repetitive motion can put a lot of strain on your body, so selecting a treadmill with additional belt cushioning is optimal.

Incline

The ability to change the incline on your treadmill can add a new dynamic and challenge to your workout. If you like walking and/or running up and down hills and uneven terrain, a treadmill under $1000 with incline capabilities works well to simulate outdoor exercise.

Be aware that some treadmills feature a motorized incline while others require you to manually adjust the incline, so be sure to read the fine print about how your treadmill inclines.

Speeds

If you plan to use your treadmill purely for walking, you can get away with selecting almost any treadmill as they all go at least up to 8mph, which is much faster than anyone can safely and effectively walk.

If you’re planning to run or sprint look for one that has a top speed of at least 10-12mph.

Heart Rate Monitors

If you have any kind of health condition, a heart rate monitor included with your treadmill is wise. Heart rate monitors can alert you if your heart rate reaches a dangerous or unhealthy state.

If you’re pregnant, your doctor may recommend that you keep your heart rate under a certain number for your safety as well as the safety of your baby.

Additionally, heart rate monitors allow you to better target and keep track of your target fat burning zone. If these options are important to you, consider choosing a treadmill with this feature.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth connectivity and Bluetooth speakers are a fairly new treadmill feature that used to be reserved for only the higher-end, more expensive treadmills. It’s now available on treadmills under $1000, too.

Bluetooth is great for connecting your phone or other devices so that you can hear music through the speakers and even use your phone. I personally wear headphones when I run on the treadmill to not disturb the rest of my house.

Some people prefer to go completely wire and hands-free and if that’s you, Bluetooth is a must.

Warranties

Even the best quality, high-performance treadmills malfunction sometimes. When you make a decision and purchase a treadmill, you’ll want to make sure it’s covered under at least some kind of warranty.

Some manufacturers offer lifetime warranties and others are as short as 90 days. The more money you invest in a treadmill, the more concerned you should be about the warranty.

Noise

If you’re like me and you hit the treadmill early in the morning when the rest of your family is sleeping, the last thing you want to do is wake them up with an overly-noisy treadmill.

Even the best treadmills will produce some degree of noise, but the ones equipped with a higher quality motor will be quieter and less intrusive.

This space-saving treadmill is a great option if quietness is an important consideration for you.

Display

The displays on almost every treadmill in this price range are very similar. They all feature your important stats like:

Most of them also offer preset programs that are tailored towards specific goals like fat loss, distance or heart rate.

Some of the treadmills also offer larger screen displays that play workout videos and display interactives through a special app or program. I would recommend watching tv shows or movies on your own television rather than trying to find a treadmill with a built-in screen for watching shows or movies.

Workout Options

If you’re someone who’s encouraged by having a set workout plan rather than freestyling your workout, you’ll want to select a treadmill that features a variety of workout options.

Many treadmills have a few basic workout options built right in, which is very handy. If you’re looking for something a little more customizable, you might look into a monthly subscription to iFit.

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Design

You have to consider design components when you’re choosing a treadmill. Consider where in your home you’ll be putting your treadmill. Will you need to be able to fold it up and stow it away when you’re not using it?

All of the treadmills on our list can fold up and roll away, although some are smaller and more compact than others. Make sure you measure the size of your intended treadmill space before you make a purchasing decision to make sure you have ample room.

Belt Size

Lastly, the size of the belt is a very important component and one that is often overlooked. If you’re someone who has longer legs, you need a belt that allows you to stride naturally, this means it needs to be long enough to accommodate your size.

Look for a belt that’s anywhere from 20 inches wide to 55 inches long or above as it will give you the most comfortable experience.

If you’re above 6 feet tall, aim to find one with a belt of at least 60” length or longer for safety and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions About Treadmills Under $1000

Below are some frequently asked questions about treadmills under $1,000 and how to select the best one for you.

How Do I Choose a Good Treadmill?

Choosing a good treadmill all comes down to taking all the factors we listed above into consideration and then making the best choice based on your personal preferences, workout style, and space accommodations.

Should I Spend More Than $1000?

You certainly can, but we don’t think it’s necessary. You can easily get a solid treadmill that will cover all your needs and last you for years to come without breaking the $1,000 mark. That said, if you’re a serious runner, a more expensive treadmill may be a worthwhile investment.

Do Treadmills Help You Lose Weight?

Yes, they can! Provided you’re using them efficiently and combining your workouts with a nutritious, well-balanced diet. The key to weight loss is burning off more calories than you’re taking in.

Are Treadmills Safe to Use?

Yes, they are very safe as long as you take the time to read through the instruction manual and take some important safety precautions. The biggest risk with treadmills is the risk of falling.

To combat this, every treadmill on our list features a safety tether that’s attached to the emergency shut-off switch. Should you slip or fall while using your treadmill, the safety key will pop out and the treadmill will shut down.

Are Treadmills Good for Your Health?

Yes! The American Heart Association recommends that adults get up to 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Treadmills are the perfect option for getting in a healthy dose of cardio each week.

What are the Disadvantages of a Treadmill Under $1000?

The biggest disadvantage of treadmill use is repetitive jarring motions that can put a strain on your back, feet, hips, and knees. Additionally, some people find them to be boring due to the lack of scenery and the fact that you’re staying in one place the whole time.

Can you Use This Type of Treadmill Every Day?

You sure can! Although treadmills under $1000 are not the top of the line models, they still are built to last and sustain daily usage.

I personally have been using my treadmill (which cost me less than 1000) almost daily for four years now with no issues.

Why Should You Purchase a Treadmill Under $1000?

Treadmills under $1000 are the perfect option for people who are at the beginner to intermediate level of fitness.

If you’re a serious runner who’s training for a marathon, you may want to consider upgrading to a more expensive treadmill that has additional comfort and longevity features. However, for beginner to intermediate level fitness, a treadmill under $1000 is perfectly suitable.

Another reason to purchase a treadmill under $1000 is that the treadmills in this price range tend to be smaller, more compact, and can easily fold away to make more space. If you live in a small home or apartment and don’t have the space to dedicate to a gym, a compact treadmill is the way to go.

Lastly, if you’re planning to use your treadmill only intermittently — like when it’s too rainy, cold, or dark outside to take your workout to the street — then a treadmill under a grand is in your best interest.

If you’re not planning to use your treadmill every single day and it’s going to spend a lot of time hanging out in the corner, don’t waste money on an expensive treadmill when you can accomplish the same workout with one under $1000.

Can You Get a Great Treadmill Under $1000? The Verdict Is In

The answer is yes, you can find an excellent treadmill for around $1000 that will not only allow you to get a great workout in but will last you for years.

There are plenty of treadmills that cost well over $1000, but the differences almost always come down to the extras and secondary features.

If your goal is simply to have a compact treadmill that allows you to get in a good cardio session every once and a while without being intrusive and budget-breaking, then a treadmill under $1000 is perfect for you!

All that’s left for you to do is take a look at our recommendations and make a purchase decision! And don’t forget to pick up a great pair of new sneakers, too!