Best Treadmill Under $1,000 (2024): 7 Options to Spend Less for Cardio Success

Outfitting a home gym on a budget is a lot like moving into your first place: you probably have an entire empty room (or rooms) to fill and about $10 to your name. Been there, done that, and bought a t-shirt, so I feel you. Although I can’t really be helpful on the filling-your-home front (except maybe check Facebook Marketplace for free couches), I can make the treadmill buying process easier.

I’ve researched, tested, and sweated on many machines in my quest to find the best treadmill under $1,000. This was no easy feat, but I managed to find something for almost everyone. 

Dozens of Treadmills Tested

Our expert product testers have had their hands (and well, feet) on over two dozen treadmills. With multiple certified personal trainers, CrossFit-L1 coaches, and former college athletes, you can rest easy knowing we really have a grip on the fitness industry. Giving our honest opinion on fitness equipment, like the best treadmills under $1,000, is our priority. Let’s get started.

Best Treadmills Under $1,000 Video

7 Best Treadmills Under $1,000  

• Best Overall Treadmill Under $1,000: Sole F63
• Best Treadmill Under $1,000 for Running: Horizon 7.0 AT
• Best Treadmill Under $1,000 for Walking: Echelon Fitness Stride-6
• Best Folding Treadmill Under $1,000: Schwinn 810
• Best Treadmill for Seniors Under $1,000: ProForm Carbon TLX
• Best Space-Saving Treadmill Under $1,000: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T7603
• Best Durable Treadmill Under $1,000: XTERRA TR150

Best Overall Treadmill Under $1,000: Sole F63

Good for: Most people looking for a well-rounded cardio machine on a budget

Best Overall Treadmill Under $1,000

Sole F63

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Product Highlights

• Folding treadmill
• Costs around $1,000
• Heart rate chest strap included
• Bluetooth speakers, USB port, and cooling fan
• Powerful 3.0 HP motor

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Financing is available
• Bluetooth speakers
• USB port
• Device holder
• 15 different levels of incline
• Cushioned deck
• 20" W x 60" L belt
• 325-lb weight capacity
• Lifetime frame and motor warranty

Cons

• Heavy machine
• No touchscreen

Bottom Line

The Sole F63 Treadmill is an affordable option for people who want a powerful, reliable machine without breaking their budget.

Editor’s Note: This treadmill now costs $1,099, but we’ve seen the price fluctuate above and below $1,000 over the past year.

Budget-friendly cardio machines that are actually great, like the Sole F63, bring me joy. Not only is this treadmill foldable for easy storage, but it boasts a lifetime frame warranty to likely make your purchase usable for years to come. 

Whether you’re into jogging, walking, or even doing sprinting intervals, the Sole F63 will support your habits. The deck is a lengthy 60 inches, which is exactly what a taller runner would want for a comfortable stride (you’re welcome, fellow tall folks). It also has a 3.0 CHP motor, suitable for walkers and runners alike.

Another nice feature? The Sole F63 comes with an included heart rate monitoring strap so you can keep an eye on your exertion. This is a nice extra for someone who doesn’t have a fitness tracker already.

On the downside, this machine is heavy. Like 254 pounds heavy. If you’re moving and need to take this treadmill up or downstairs, please hire a professional. It isn’t worth throwing your back out over. The same applies to the assembly process. I would recommend ponying up for the expert assembly, but if you can’t, grab a friend or two to aid in the unboxing process, bare minimum. 

Read our full Sole F63 treadmill review.

Best Treadmill Under $1,000 for Running: Horizon 7.0 AT

Good for: Running enthusiasts or tall people with long strides 

Best Treadmill Under $1,000 for Running

Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

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Product Highlights

• Priced under $1,000
• Spacious 60-inch running deck
• Bluetooth connectivity
• QuickDial controls for both the speed and incline

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 60” running surface
• 3.0 CHP motor
• Bluetooth connectivity with apps like Zwift, Peloton, and Nike Running Club
• 325 lb weight limit

Cons

• Heavy machine at over 250 lbs
• No included touchscreen
• 3-year parts warranty and 1-year labor warranties are less than the Horizon 7.4 AT Treadmill

Bottom Line

For under $1,000, the Horizon 7.0 AT is a great option for people who want to use their treadmill to run.

The easiest way to tell a good budget treadmill from a not-so-great one is the shake factor. Luckily, the Horizon 7.0 AT passes this test with nary a quiver in sight. Plus, the 20-inch-by-60-inch deck is ideal for serious runners looking for a top treadmill with great speed range. 

I love the 325-pound max user weight capacity, which is well over the 300-pound industry standard. Even better? The 7.0 AT has a lifetime frame and motor warranty so you can feel secure in your new machine’s durability. 

Unfortunately, with such durability and stability comes weight. This treadmill clocks in at 253 pounds, which is not light by any means. I’d recommend having multiple people help you with unboxing, moving, and assembling this machine. Better yet, hire professionals to help you with the job if you can spare extra cash. 

Check out our full Horizon 7.0 AT treadmill review.

Best Treadmill Under $1,000 for Walking: Echelon Fitness Stride

Good for: People who appreciate simple and uncomplicated cardio machines

Best Treadmill Under $1,000 for Walking

Echelon Stride-6

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Product Highlights

• Auto-fold
• 12.5 incline levels
• No assembly required
• Cushioned running deck
• 300-lb user weight capacity

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Folds and unfolds with the push of a button
• No assembly
• Vertical and horizontal transport wheels
• Bluetooth compatible

Cons

• Screen not included
• 1-year warranty for most customers (Echelon Premier members get a 5-year warranty)

Bottom Line

The Echelon Stride 6 has all the features you'd expect in a heavy-duty treadmill, along with auto-fold technology and zero assembly.

Trying to hit that 10,000 daily Apple Watch step goal without having to leave the comfort of your own abode? The Echelon Fitness Stride 6 is here to help! And yes, we know, this isn’t technically under $1,000 but allow us to explain why it’s worth the extra investment if you’re someone who wants to casually walk indoors while working, watching TV, or even listening to a podcast.

The assembly process is extremely uncomplicated and generally takes under 20 minutes, so you can get those feet moving almost right away. Plus, you’ll be able to easily adjust both the incline and speed via the handles while you’re walking (which means you don’t have to take your hands off the handles if you don’t want to).

You get a bright and easy-to-read LED display to monitor all your metrics and an extra large device holder for your tablet or smartphone. Plus, if you have an Echelon Membership you can choose from thousands of live and on-demand workouts.

The 2.5 horsepower motor can actually support running speeds up to 12 mph if you decide to turn walking into running or try fartlek training. The 60-inch-long running deck will also allow you to walk or run with your natural gait no matter your height. 

Best Folding Treadmill Under $1,000: Schwinn 810

Good for: Small spaces or people who want to store their machine in-between usage

Best Folding Treadmill Under $1,000

Schwinn 810 Treadmill

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Product Highlights

• Folding treadmill
• Transport wheels
• 2.6 CHP
• Top speed 10 MPH
• Incline up to 10%
• 16 built-in programs
• Running surface measures 55" L x 20" W
• Heart rate pulse grips

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Folding design
• Bluetooth technology
• Cushioned running deck
• Users reported it to be very quiet
• 16 workout programs
• Cushioned deck is comfortable
• 10 percent incline levels

Cons

• Weak motor
• Warranty is so-so
• USB port is for charging only; cannot transfer data
• Some users report integrated speakers are weak

Bottom Line

While the Schwinn lacks the power and bells and whistles found on more expensive models, it has a sturdy build capable of providing users with challenging workouts.

Don’t have a ton of space to work with but still want a treadmill for your home gym? Fear not! The Schwinn 810 is here to save the day. This budget-friendly machine is simple to fold and features a handy gas shock to lower the deck slowly and safely. 

Although there isn’t a fancy touchscreen, the 810 does have an LCD screen and 16 preset programs available to use for workouts. I like the wide range of choices available (think intervals or calorie burn), and it is a useful option for someone who doesn’t want to pay for interactive programming. 

In terms of the cushioning system, I wasn’t thrilled. Although the Schwinn 810 supposedly has specialized cushioning, the belt felt particularly thin to me. This is worth noting if you’re someone looking for an especially cushioned treadmill or you suffer from joint pain. 

Read our full Schwinn 810 treadmill review.

Best Treadmill for Seniors Under $1,000: ProForm Carbon TXL

Good for: Older adults who want a budget-friendly treadmill to suit their needs

Best Treadmill for Seniors Under $1,000

ProForm Carbon TLX

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Product Highlights

• Affordable folding treadmill
• 3.0 CHP motor
• 60" belt
• 0-12 mph speed range
• 12% incline
• 7-inch display
• iFIT-enabled

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable with a 3.0 CHP motor
• 300-lb weight capacity
• 60-inch belt length
• 12% incline
• Cushioned running deck
• iFIT-enabled
• Foldable

Cons

• Only a 1-year parts warranty
• No touchscreen display

Bottom Line

The ProForm Carbon TLX is an affordable folding treadmill that would be suitable for a small space. It's durable, with a 300-pound weight capacity and 3.0 CHP motor, plus it offers up to 12% incline.

The ProForm Carbon TLX treadmill is a home run for seniors. With an easy-to-read console, low step-up height, and built-in cooling fan, most older adults will find their walk or jog is a comfortable experience on the TLX. 

The deck length of 60 inches is above average for machines priced under $1,000. When it comes to taking strides, most seniors will be able to walk, jog, and run on this comfortably. Plus, for those who need a little extra support, the attached handlebars offer a sturdy place to hold on to. 

Older adults will also benefit from tons of adjustability with an incline up to 12% and speeds up 12 mph. This machine also features a powerful 3.0 continuous horsepower motor and a 300-pound user weight limit, which our product testers think is quite durable for this price range.

“For the price, you get a lot with this machine,” says GGR expert tester and ISSA certified personal trainer Lindsay Scheele in her ProForm Carbon TLX review.

But it doesn’t stop there: The 7-inch high contrast display on the ProForm Carbon is easy to read with large numbers and can connect to iFIT programming with your own smart device via Bluetooth. This ProForm treadmill works without an iFIT subscription, but it’s worth noting that iFIT offers high-quality, interactive programming to help people reach their fitness goals. This is a great option for a senior who needs a little guidance on specific workouts to do on their new treadmill.

Best Space-Saving Treadmill Under $1,000: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T7603

Good for: Individuals with small homes, condos, and apartments

Best Space-Saving Treadmill Under $1,000

Sunny Health And Fitness SF - T7603 Treadmill

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Product Highlights

• Compact and foldable
• Simple to build solo
• Foldable with a gas shock for gentle release
• Handles have speed adjustments
• 2.2 CHP motor

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact
• Easy to fold
• Lightweight
• Sturdy, all-steel frame
• Shock absorption
• Reviewers report easy assembly

Cons

• Weaker motor will not support sustained or intense runs
• Small running deck not suited for taller individuals
• Some users report the lifespan is very short

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a seriously affordable, compact, portable and simple treadmill, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7603 folding treadmill may be for you. While this machine won’t support sustained or intense running, it’s a value purchase for walkers, joggers and casual runners.

The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T7603 is a machine I’d recommend for people who need a space-saving treadmill. Not only does this machine fold (and it has a gas shock for easy lowering, hallelujah!), but it weighs just 103 pounds. This is ideal if you live in an apartment or condo and need to move it up or down the stairs sans elevator. 

Plus, you likely won’t have issues with building it. The SF-T7603 is a quick build, and it isn’t worth purchasing professional assembly for the average person. 

For such a budget-friendly price tag, I’m surprised by the above-average deck cushioning. Although I wouldn’t say it is akin to walking on a cloud, it’s much better than other cheaper treadmills I’ve tried in the past. 

The SF-T7603 is certainly compact and lightweight, but this unfortunately comes with a diminished deck size at 49 inches long by 16 inches wide. Unless you just plan to walk or occasionally jog, this isn’t an ideal pick for taller people over 5 feet,10 inches tall. Plus, with only a 220-pound weight capacity, this is not a good option for heavier people. 

Take a look at our entire Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7603 treadmill review.

Best Durable Treadmill Under $1,000: XTERRA TR150

Good for: People that need a super budget option with a lifetime frame warranty 

Best Durable Treadmill Under $1,000

XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill

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Product Highlights

• Simple to use
• Lifetime warranty on the frame
• Easy to build
• 12 preset programs
• Deck has sub-par cushioning

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Foldable
• Portable with transport wheels
• Ideal for beginner walkers to speed walkers
• Lightweight
• Great warranty
• Easy-to-read 5-inch LED display
• 12 preset programs onboard

Cons

• Only 2.25 horsepower motor
• Some reviewers report it is noisy
• Water bottle holders on console reportedly do not fit normal bottle sizes
• Users claim they received an error code after one use
• Several reviews reported that the dimensions provided are inaccurate
• Not suited for experienced and heavy users

Bottom Line

The XTERRA TR150 is a starter treadmill available on the lower end of the budget scale offering a commendable lifetime frame warranty and features comparable to competitive models. If you are just beginning your fitness journey, this is a great option for you.

For a treadmill under $1,000 like the XTERRA TR150, it’s impressive to see a lifetime frame warranty. This speaks to the durability of the machine, and that the company stands behind it (even though it is one of the cheapest options on this list!). 

If you’re looking for a cardio machine that won’t have you cursing angrily during assembly, the TR150 is a great pick. I found that this machine was extremely easy to build and move from room to room.

What you won’t find on this machine? Really any tech features, sans a nice built-in heart rate monitor on the handle grips. 

Although the TR150 does fold, I wouldn’t recommend actually using this feature due to the lack of gas shock. Typically, a folding treadmill will have a gas shock to prevent the deck from slamming the ground with force. In this case, if you were to drop the deck during the unfolding process, it will come crashing down and could injure people and pets. 

Check out our full XTERRA Fitness TR150 treadmill review.

Other Treadmills We Researched

We try (and research) a lot of treadmills in our quest to find the best treadmills for you. Here are three that didn’t quite make the cut on this list:

Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill: Although this budget-friendly and lightweight treadmill will be a good option for those tight on space, it won’t win any awards for deck length.

UREVO Folding Treadmill: The UREVO is a good option for someone who wants to slowly walk while working or in a meeting, but it isn’t good for runners or taller folks.

Horizon Fitness T101: Although this treadmill is just $649, we prefer the Horizon 7.0 for its more expansive deck and increased speed options. 

How We Picked and Tested

When looking at possible treadmills to put on this list, we took a look at these key things:

• Price
• Popular options on the market
• Workout experience
• Motor horsepower
• Max user weight capacity
• Foldability
• Warranty
• Overall durability
• Deck length 

Benefits of Treadmills

Treadmills can be a beneficial tool to add to your home gym repertoire, but don’t just take it from me—take it from a certified personal trainer (CPT)!

“There are a lot of reasons treadmills have been around for so long,” GGR staff writer and CPT Anthony O’Reilly explained. “Most importantly, they’re an easy-to-use tool for increasing your heart rate to help improve your cardiovascular health and conditioning and can be used to hit a caloric deficit.”

“They’re also much easier on the joints than road running, and this can help you remain active for many years to come,” O’Reilly adds.

RELATED: Benefits of a Treadmill

Buying Guide: What to Look For in Treadmills Under $1,000

It can be hard to know what to look for when buying fitness equipment. With so many different buying decisions to make, sometimes it’s overwhelming knowing what to look at first. Don’t sweat it––as a CrossFit-L1 trainer and self-proclaimed cardio queen, I know what’s most important when you’re looking for the best treadmill for home under $1,000. Take a look:

Price

If you’re reading this roundup, it’s likely you’re looking for a treadmill under $1,000. Yay! One thing is already accomplished––you know your budget. To get the most out of your price range, be on the lookout for special discount codes and holiday sales for different cardio brands like NordicTrack, ProForm, Sole, and Bowflex. 

Warranty

In an ideal world, every treadmill would adhere to the industry standards of 15 years to a lifetime warranty on the frame. Unfortunately, with budget options that is rarely the case. You can hope for something like that, but realistically, you’ll find cheaper treadmills have a frame warranty of around five to 10 years.

Deck Size

If you’re over 5 feet, 9 inches tall or enjoy running, congratulations! You need a longer treadmill deck. Make sure your new cardio machine has at least a 50-inch deck (preferably 55 to 60 inches) to support your long strides. If you really only plan to walk or lightly jog, the length of your treadmill deck is less important. 

User Weight Capacity

Depending on your weight, you’ll want to make sure your new cardio machine will support you. Some of the more budget-friendly options can have sneakily low weight capacities (looking at you, Sunny Health and Fitness), so be sure to check before purchase.

Motor 

If you like running, I’d suggest getting a treadmill that has at least a 3.0 continuous horsepower motor. If you’re into taking it a bit slower, the motor’s horsepower can vary and likely still support you.

Foldability

Tight on space? Make sure your treadmill is foldable so you can stow it away when it isn’t in use. These days, most treadmills do fold, but it is still worth checking out before you purchase anything. 

Treadmills Under $1,000 FAQs

Caroline Lubinsky, CF-L1

Caroline is a former NCAA D1 Women’s College Soccer player who also played in the WPSL, the second highest level of professional women’s soccer in the United States. Although soccer was her first love, Caroline eats, sleeps, and breathes all things fitness. She credits her high school’s football coach, Jason Estep, with teaching her how to properly use a barbell at 15 years old and inspiring an enduring love for strength training. Caroline is also a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer. Content wise, Caroline has a background in Public Relations and previously worked in the Communication department at Appalachian State University. When Caroline isn’t writing or working out, she works with dachshund rescue groups and listens to way too many true crime podcasts.

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