We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.
Editor’s Note: The NordicTrack X7i is currently in closeout, which means it will soon be unavailable. We suggest viewing the NordicTrack X22i as the best alternative, or view our Best Treadmills list for more options.
The NordicTrack X7i could make you feel like you can move mountains in your living room. This impressive incline trainer is tough on calories while being easier on your wallet than some other incline trainers. Built for those who prefer walking and jogging to running, the X7i is a testament to the quality and features we’ve come to expect from NordicTrack treadmills.
This machine is no longer in production, though if you’ve found one second-hand and are considering purchasing it, we can give you an idea of what to expect in our NordicTrack X7i review.
We Know NordicTrack Treadmills
Our goal has always been to give you honest reviews of products to help you get the best equipment for you and your garage gym. In doing that we have tested and reviewed roughly a dozen NordicTrack machines as well as machines from other top-of-the-line treadmill brands like ProForm, Bowflex, and more. This means we look beyond NordicTrack’s impressive features and make sure you are getting the most user-friendly experience as well as the best bang for your buck.
Looking for an Alternative to the NordicTrack X7i?
Since unfortunately this treadmill is discontinued, we recommend the NordicTrack X22i as a great alternative. It has the same impressive 40% incline that NordicTrack says can increase calorie burn by five times (a claim we can’t support or deny). It also has an LED screen three times bigger than the X7i, coming in at 22 inches. With a more powerful 4.0 CHP motor, this treadmill is great for those looking for a great incline training option.
Best Alternative to the NordicTrack X7i
If you’re looking for an immersive training experience on a club-quality treadmill, the NordicTrack X22i may be a good fit for you. With a fully rotating and tilting 22-inch touchscreen and access to iFIT, you’re able to choose from thousands of live and on-demand workouts that will meet the fitness needs of beginners and advanced athletes alike. The integration of Google Maps enables you to choose a location anywhere in the world to train. With an impressive incline range of -6% to a whopping 40% incline, you can mimic the terrain of any outdoor location you choose.The X22i features auto-adjust technology, which allows iFIT trainers to automatically adjust your speed and incline for a hands-free workout. Or, use your heart rate to guide your workout with the ActivePulse technology. With this, you can connect a Bluetooth heart rate monitor, which will automatically adjust incline or speed to keep you in your designated training zone. A heart rate monitor is not included. There are no pre-programmed workouts on the X22i and a membership to iFIT is required to access workouts.With this treadmill, rest assured that you are getting a high-quality and durable cardio machine. Equipped with a 4.0 CHP, the X22i supports speeds from 0 to 12 miles per hour on a fully cushioned, roomy 22-inch-wide by 60-inch-long running surface. Featuring an AutoBreeze fan, integrated console tray, upgraded Bluetooth technology, premium 30-watt speakers, one-touch controls, and a lower step-up height, the X22i is a solid choice for anyone with the space. It is large and heavy so requires a dedicated spot. Consider ceiling height as well if you plan on using the maximum incline.
A Quick Look at the NordicTrack X7i
The NordicTrack X7i is a great incline treadmill for those wanting a steep climb for their cardio. It boasts an impressive 40% incline, high-tech reflex cushioning, and a tablet holder for a multi-screen experience option. The NordicTrack X7i incline trainer is more than just a standard treadmill, with its iFIT, coaching you can have a personal trainer at your fingertips on the convenient one touch screen.
Pros:
- -3% to 40% incline range
- Wider, longer tread belt
- Wireless chest strap included
- Integrated tablet holder
- iPod-compatible sound system
- 38 built-in workout programs
- Does not require iFIT membership
Cons:
- Small display screen
- Motor not ideal for serious running
- Does not fold
- Heavy machine
NordicTrack X7i Specs
| Footprint | 70.2” L X 39.6” W X 69.7” H |
| Weight | 222 lbs in box |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Motor | 2.75 HP |
| Walking Belt | 22” X 60” |
| Display | 7” Backlit |
| Incline | -3% – 40% |
| Speed | 0-12 MPH |
| Programs | iFIT compatible, 38 workout apps |
| Warranty | Lifetime frame; 5 years parts; 2 years labor |
Key Features of the NordicTrack X7i
There’s a reason I keep mentioning the 40% incline on the X7i—it truly is an impressive feature, with the industry standard being around only 20% for incline treadmills. The treadmill is also equipped with the latest technology to move quieter and more seamlessly through incline transitions.
Another great feature on the X7i is NordicTrack’s signature reflex cushioning. You can simulate running on asphalt or change the settings to be a little gentler on your joints. Our testers used this on one of the iterations of the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 and loved it.
The longer running belt on this model makes for a more comfortable running experience; past models with smaller belts are peppered with reviews on Amazon mentioning how unstable it felt to run on such a small belt. The X7i is wider and longer, providing more stability and peace of mind.
Footprint, Portability, and Durability
At 70 inches long, the X7i is far from a small machine. That, paired with the fact that this machine is not a folding treadmill, means it isn’t great for small spaces. But being such a hulk of a machine does allow it to have a high user weight capacity of 300 pounds. The handles in two positions help the feeling of stability with the added feature of grip pulse heart rate monitors.
The 2.75 horsepower motor is not quite ideal for those wanting to train for serious running. We prefer to see a motor at 3.0 CHP or higher for that, knowing that motors of that caliber can withstand frequent use. This motor is ideal for those wanting steep climb or jog.
Ergonomics
We’ve talked over and over about how great the 40% incline is, but the -3% decline also makes this a versatile machine. With the standard top speed of 12 MPH and the easy OneTouch control adjustable incline, this machine can get you almost any treadmill workout option you are looking for.
Technology Benefits and Conveniences
The X7i Nordictrack incline trainer treadmill has a 7-inch backlit display and a convenient tablet holder. While you can’t stream iFIT workouts from your machine, you can still connect it via Bluetooth to an iFIT account, which will provide you with live and on-demand workouts. iFIT uses apps like Google Maps to allow you to run anywhere in the world. No iFIT subscription? No problem! There are 38 on-board workouts you can choose from instead.
RELATED: The Best iFIT Treadmills
In terms of conveniences, there is an iPod-compatible sound system for your favorite workout playlist. Dual AutoBreeze fans keep you cool while two accessory slots keep phones and small water bottles within arm’s reach. This model also comes with the chest strap to wirelessly monitor your heart rate which is a great option for those who choose to workout without using the handles.
Customer X7i Incline Trainer Reviews
There is no surprise that the customer reviews for any NordicTrack products, whether it’s their treadmills, ellipticals, or bikes, are always overwhelmingly positive. They know what the customer wants out of their fitness equipment.
The average rating for this treadmill across NordicTrack, Amazon, and Google is 4 stars. The biggest positive customers have to say about the X7i in particular is that they love the fact that they can get just as good of a workout with a steep incline walk as they could with a run. Customers love this option as it can ease beginners into heart-pumping cardio who aren’t quite ready to run yet. Other positives users noted in their treadmill reviews was that this one of the most silent they had ever used.
Final Verdict of Our NordicTrack X7i Review
In short, the NordicTrack X7i is a high-quality incline training treadmill. Customers attest to its user-friendly features as well as heart-pumping workouts. Reviews also mentioned iFIT and Google Maps features were great at motivating beginners to keep consistent.
Though discontinued, the X22i carries on the stellar NordicTrack reputation. While higher on the price tag, there are finance options you can utilize to make them more affordable. Or you can check out our list of best treadmills for other great options.
NordicTrack X7i Rating
NordicTrack X7i
In our NordicTrack X7i review, we take a look at the specs of this now-discontinued treadmill.
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 3499
Product In-Stock: InStock
4.3
NordicTrack X7i FAQs
Does NordicTrack X7i have Bluetooth?
Yes, the X7i model does have Bluetooth. It also comes with the a Bluetooth chest strap, unlike some models where it has to be bought separately.
Are NordicTrack treadmills any good?
With some of the best features out there and rating upwards of four stars, NordicTrack has some amazing treadmill options to fit any needs. We have personally tested and reviewed the best NordicTrack treadmills and can attest to their value. They are on the expensive side, but financing is available.
Is the NordicTrack X32i worth it?
With a 32-inch touchscreen, one of the biggest motors NordicTrack offers, and almost 5-star reviews across the board, the X32i is definitely a great option if you are in the market for a luxury treadmill that will perform great.
Do any NordicTrack treadmills fold?
Yes! There are NordicTrack treadmill models that do fold like the NordicTrack Commercial 1750. Not all of them are folding, but most of them do.
Further reading
Looking to exercise from the comfort of your own home with no equipment? Our at home bodyweight workout has 18 CPT-approved bodyweight exercises for you to try! Read more
My garage gym is without a doubt one of my favorite places in the world. I've assembled some of the best equipment I could find to create a setup that would rival any Pro or Olympic-Level Training Center. And here's the best part, its in my garage. Read more
Curious about the differences between plant-based protein powder vs whey and whether one is better? We discuss what you need to know about these popular supplements! Read more
This jam-packed guide includes expert-backed fitness tips from personal trainers and nutrition coaches who also happen to be busy professionals and parents. Read more