Image from Pexels

You may be thinking of the benefits of a treadmill that can bring your workouts to the next level and finding a treadmill that can tend to your fitness goals. However, their costs are no joke, it’s an investment to achieve a healthy lifestyle. Luckily, there are also affordable treadmills to choose from that offer high-quality performance.

Finding the right treadmill depends on your fitness goals and needs. Prices may vary based on quality and specs, so finding a treadmill requires research to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth. I’ve listed some of my top affordable treadmills for various needs to guide you.

What are the best affordable treadmills?

  1. Horizon Fitness T202 – My overall best-budget treadmill pick.
  2. Echelon Stride Auto-Connected Treadmill – My best pick for buyers looking for a quality budget compact folding treadmill for small spaces.
  3. Proform City L6  – Best pick for buyers looking for a quality budget walking treadmill.
  4. Horizon Fitness 7.0 AT Studio Series – Best budget treadmill for serious runners.
  5. NordicTrack EXP 10i – Best budget quality pick for iFit training.
  6. Sole F63 – Best cheap treadmill worth $1000.
  7. Horizon Fitness T101  – Best pick for a quality cheap treadmill under $700.

1. Horizon Fitness T202

Best for – Buyers looking for an overall high-quality budget treadmill.

My take 

What I love about the Horizon T202 treadmill is that it has a wider and cushioned 60-inch running area, accommodating athletes, taller users, and even individuals with leg muscle injuries. Their ultra-quiet Johnson Drive System motor ensures a smoother and easier workout. One of the best things about the T202 is that it also comes with BlueTooth connectivity for speakers, Easydial rollers, and a fitness app where you can sort out your interval programs. Horizon has received praise and was awarded Fatherly Favorite 2021 for its solid performance and fair price. 

Key Features 

  • Running area dimensions: 20-inch W x 60-inch L
  • Weight: 187 lbs
  • Frame type: Featherlight foldable
  • Weight capacity: 325 lbs
  • 3-layer shock-absorbent cushioning
  • Motor: Ultra-quiet Johnson Drive System
  • One-touch keys and exclusive easy dial roll for speed and incline shift
  • Inclusions: Bluetooth connectivity to built-in speakers, fan, audio in/out jack, bottle holder, and type A USB port.
  • Includes a free app to control workout programs and install data into your favorite fitness apps.
  • Lifetime warranty: motor and frame
  • 1-year warranty: parts and labor (Can be upgraded to 3 years for $119 or 5 years for $149)
  • Electronic requirement: 60 Hz. – 120 V. Not compatible with GFCI outlets

Pricing

The Horizon T202 costs only $799. You can apply for credit payments through other methods from their financing programs: 

  • CitizensPay and Genesiscredit: All installments come with 0% APR
    • $23 for 36 months
    • $34 for 24 months
    • $45 for 18 months
    • $67 for 12 months

Likes/Dislikes about Horizon T202

Likes

  • Quality running area – Not all treadmills are properly cushioned, the Horizon T202 is a 3-zone shock absorbent that lessens the joint impact. Having a solid cushion helps prevent muscle strain.
  • Motor – Quiet, sturdy, and smooth. The Johnson Drive System motor provides stellar power for a heavy-duty treadmill.
  • Efficiency – The Horizon T202 is considerably easy to assemble and use.
  • Great warranty – The motor and frame warranty lasts a lifetime, while parts and labor last a year. They also offer warranty boosts for at least $119.99.
  • EasyDial Controls – The H202 has new responsive and effective roller controls for incline and speed.
  • Cost Effective – Horizon T202 is a durable treadmill for its price compared to high-end brands that cost above $2,000. 
  • Good Customer service – Horizon’s customer service is responsive to your needs and assists as quickly as they can. 

Dislikes

  • Fan – It would be great to strengthen its power to produce better air.
  • Portability – The Horizon T202 is considerably a heavy treadmill due to its sturdiness and durability.
  • Additions – Aside from a heart rate sensor handrail, it would be best to add an attachable heart rate sensor so users can focus on maintaining their running form.
  • Delivery – Horizon’s delivery partners are unresponsive and often cause delays in delivering your purchased equipment.
  • Connectivity – The fitness app has issues connecting with apple products.
  • Built-in speaker volume – It would be nice to improve the volume power of their speakers.
  • Instructions – The manual lacks instructions for setting the treadmill into normal unit options rather than built-in interval programs.

Overall Experience

The Horizon T202 is a solid and sturdy cheap treadmill. What I love about it is that this model has something for everybody. Quality running treadmills are often expensive, but Horizon offers better space, engines, and specs such as smooth speed and incline changes, cushioning, fitness apps, BlueTooth, and EasyDial rollers to help improve your workout routines. 

2. Echelon Stride Auto-Connected Treadmill

Best for – Buyers looking for a high-quality portable treadmill that can fit smaller spaces.

My take 

The Echelon Stride Auto-Connected Treadmill is a budget pick for one of the best folding treadmills that save space and offer quality programs. What’s great about the Echelon Stride Auto-Connected is that it can mimic peaks and valleys with its scenic workouts and manual incline options to 12 levels. Aside from its classic folding treadmill structure, the Echelon Stride Auto-Connected is competitive with its sturdy performance and fun built-in workout programs.

Key Features

  • Running area dimensions: 20-inch W x 55-inch L 
  • Overall dimensions: 31-inch width x 69-inch length x 49-inch height
  • Weight: 156 lbs
  • Design: Foldable (Patented Auto-Fold)
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • Impact-absorbing elastomer running area
  • Motor: DC Motor – 1.75 CHP (2.5 Peak HP) 
  • Speed: 0.5 to 12 mph 
  • Inclusions: Smart device holder, scenic workouts filmed around the world, handlebar heart rate sensors, USB 2.0 connectivity, console screen with eight built-in workout programs
  • Incline: 12 levels with a maximum 10% incline grade
  • 30-day warranty only

Pricing

The Echelon Stride Auto-Connect Treadmill costs $1039.99. You can apply for credit payments through other methods: 

  • CitizensPay & Genesiscredit – You can pay for as low as the following at 0% APR
    • $23 for 48 months
    • $28 for 39 months
    • $45 for 24 months
    • $90 for 12 months

Likes/Dislikes about Echelon Stride Auto-Connect Treadmill

Likes

  • Convenience – The Echelon Stride Auto-Connected is structured to be portable, easy to use, and folds completely flat.
  • Workouts – Ideal for short runs and walks but also provides eight built-in programs aside from Echelon membership programs.
  • Unit – Echelon Stride Auto-connected treadmill is highly sturdy for its compact design.
  • Echelon Program – Echelon’s on-demand classes are highly motivating and interactive with their trainees during workout sessions.
  • Connectability – The Echelon Stride Auto-Connected efficiently connects with your smart devices and programs for a smoother and more effective workout session.
  • Space-saving – Echelon’s Stride Auto-Connected treadmill provides a smaller footprint for a less-crowded home gym. Its model is also highly portable, making easy storage for your home
  • Good customer service – Echelon’s customer service is highly responsive and accommodating to buyers with concerns.

Dislikes

  • Weight – The Echelon Stride is heavy despite its small and portable size.
  • Short warranty – Aside from only 30 days, you’ll need to pay extra for extended warranties.
    • 1-year warranty – $119.00
    • 2-year warranty – $179.00
  • Motor – The Stride Auto Connected DC Motor makes noise when switched on, which may irritate users. It would be great to have a stronger and smoother motor to solve this.
  • Echelon Program cost – Buying the Echelon Stride Auto-Connected requires you to pay a separate $300 for the Echelon training program. However, many who used the program are highly satisfied and motivated by their coaches.
  • Noise – The Echelon Stride Auto-Connected Treadmill makes noise for users over the 300 lb limit.
  • Belt – The running belt moves to the side when used longer, which can cause accidents. 

Overall Experience

A few of my favorite things about this model are that it’s easy to store and use and works at an excellent rate for its size. The Echelon Stride Auto-Connected Treadmill offers various training programs while saving space at home. You can also challenge yourself as you enjoy the view of different scening programs with the help of an incline.

3. Proform City L6

Best for – Buyers looking for a high-quality budget treadmill for walks and easy jogging.

My take

One of the best things to consider for your home gym is folding treadmills that are both easy to move and store. The ProForm City L6 treadmill is a top-quality budget treadmill that is well worth the investment for anyone looking for something effective but easy on the muscles. This model also offers a range of programs compatible with iFit membership training to help users achieve their fitness goals.

Key Features

  • Running area dimensions: 17.5-inch W x 45-inch L
  • Overall dimensions: 29-inch width x 70.25-inch length x 44.5-inch tall
  • Weight: 125 lbs
  • Frame type: foldable
  • Weight capacity: 250 lbs
  • Proshox cushioning
  • Motor: 1.6 CHP2 Mach Z™
  • Speed: 0 to 8 mph
  • Inclusions: Tablet holder, 1.6 precision-balanced rollers, Bluetooth enabled, 30-days free IFIT membership training
  • 10-year warranty: frame
  • 1-year warranty: parts and labor

Pricing

The Proform City L6 only costs $499.98. You pay through credit in other methods:

  • CitizensPay & Genesiscredit – You can pay as low as
    • $45.15 for 12 months + 15.19% APR
    • $87.06 for 6 months + 15.17% APR
    • $166.66 for 3 months + 0% APR
  • Afterpay – 4 $125.00 interest-free payments 

Likes/Dislikes about Proform City L6

Likes

  • Cushioned running area – Proform City L6’s running deck is supported with Proshox cushioning, making workouts easy on the joints and ideal for those looking to walk or slow-jog longer distances. 
  • Saves space – The Proform City L6 is a compact treadmill that can be easily stored at home. 
  • iFit compatible – Includes a 30-day free trial of iFit membership to guide users through workout programs for the treadmill. 

Dislikes

  • Weight – Proform City L6 is heavy for its compact and portable design.
  • Smaller running track The proform City L6’s small running area may be hard for taller and bigger users.
  • Lowest top speed – It would be great to have a higher top speed than 8 mph
  • Does not include tablet – You will need to provide your own device to activate the iFit membership and other programs.
  • No incline – The Proform L6 has 0 no incline options, which highly contributes to its low-cost

Overall Experience

Proform’s City L6 provides a less-joint-impact workout with its high-quality cushioning and iFit training availability. A compact treadmill also gives you the space to avoid crowding your home. The Proform City L6 is a treadmill buyers should consider if they’re looking for a high-quality walking treadmill at a low price.

4. Horizon Fitness 7.0AT Studio Series

Best for – Buyers looking for a quality heavy-duty budget treadmill to train athletes.

My Take

The Horizon Fitness 7.0AT Studio Series is a heavy-duty treadmill perfect for athletes preparing for marathons or other sports. Its 60-inch cushioned running belt can accommodate tall users while preventing joint strain for a more comfortable long run. Its 15% limit incline and 12 mph max speed can help challenge your workouts with Bluetooth connectivity to multiple fitness apps and built-speakers to reach your fitness goals.

Key Features

  • Running belt dimensions: 20 inch W x 60 inch L
  • Assembled dimensions: 37-inch width x 77-inch length x 65.5-inch height
  • Weight: 253 lbs
  • Frame type: Foldable
  • Weight capacity: 325 lbs
  • 3-zone cushioned running deck
  • Motor: Johnson Digital Drive ft. Rapid Sync™
  • Display: 7” LCD screen, 16 Digital Alphanumeric LED
  • Speed: 0 to 12 mph
  • Power Incline: 0 to 15%
  • Inclusions: Built-in Bluetooth speakers, media center, energy saver mode, USB charging port ( 1A/5v), water bottle shelf, audio in/out jack.
  • Lifetime warranty: frame and motor
  • 3-year warranty: all parts (except frame and motor)
  • 1-year warranty: home labor

Pricing

Horizon’s 7.0AT is only $999.00 for a high-quality running treadmill. You can also pay through installments through other methods: 

  • Affirm
    • $90 for 12 months + 15.19% APR
    • $87.06 for 6 months + 15.17% APR
    • $166.66 for 3 months + 0% APR
  • Afterpay
    • 4-month installment of $250

Likes/Dislikes about Horizon 7.0AT 

Likes

  • Impressive Warranty – Horizon is known for its impressive lifetime and 10-year warranty and extension offer on its site.
  • Awarded – The Horizon 7.0AT is a highly-regarded treadmill in the industry, certified by these respectful awards:
    • 2021 Editor’s Choice Award from Runner’s World
    • Best Buy Award from Treadmill Reviews 
    • 2022 Fitness Awards from Good Housekeeping
  • Smooth Motor – Horizon’s Rapid Sync motor allows the treadmill to make smooth speed and incline changes, making little to no noise for the user’s extra concentration. 
  • Clear Instructions – The Horizon 7.0AT manual is easy to understand, making setups and customizations less stressful. 
  • Connectivity – Horizon 7.0AT’s Bluetooth and Audio port connectivity syncs well with smart devices without delays to prevent any interruptions or delays during workouts.
  • Convenience – The Quick Dial rolling knobs and interval keys make Horizon 7.0AT easier to use.

Dislikes

  • Weight – The Horizon 7.0AT is a heavy-duty treadmill powered by a horse-power motor to accommodate long runs and high-interval training, it’s given that this machine would be heavy.
  • Self-set up – Some deliveries do not help with the setup despite the 1-year labor warranty.
  • Weak fan – It would be great for the Horizon 7.0AT to have a stronger fan than its current one.
  • Cannot fold up to 90 degrees – Despite being a foldable treadmill, the Horizon 7.0AT does not fold completely flat, which may consume space for non-treadmill exercises.
  • Shelves – A water bottle hole holder would be safer than a 
  • Quick Dial rolling knob placement – The Horizon 7.0AT’s rolling knob placement can be dangerous for users who run at the front.

Overall Experience

The Horizon 7.0AT Studio Series is a high-quality budget pick for athletes or other buyers looking for a competitive heavy-duty treadmill that meets their fitness goals. Its inclusions and high-powered motor provide a smooth experience in customizing workouts. With the Rapid Sync motor, Horizon 7.0AT stays at par with you through every interval program to help keep you energized. 

5. NordicTrack EXP 10i

Best for – Buyers who are looking for a quality budget iFit training treadmill 

My Take

NordicTrack provides a diverse and active experience with iFit training. You can challenge yourself with new routines as the NordicTrack EXP includes 17,000+ workouts of cross-training options. With the EXP 10i, you can experience scenic workouts that mimic fascinating places around the world to test your stamina with Google Maps workout technology and automatic trainer control while tracking your progress, such as your calories burned and fitness goals.

Key Features

  • 30-day iFit trial membership
  • Running belt dimensions: 20 inches x 60 inches
  • Assembled dimensions: 35.8 inches W 79.9 inches length x 59.25 inches height
  • 10-inch HD Smart touchscreen
  • Inbox Weight: 229 lbs
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • FlexSelect Cushioning 
  • Smart Response Drive System
  • Motor: 2.5 CHP Plus Motor
  • Speed: 0 to 12 mph
  • Incline: -3% to 12%
  • Inclusions: Bluetooth Audio, 2-inch amplified speakers, automatic trainer remote control, scenic world workouts.
  • Warranties:
    • 10-year warranty: frame 
    • 2-year warranty: parts
    • 1-year warranty: labor

Pricing 

The NordicTrack EXP 10i is only $1499.00 for a smart treadmill. But NordicTrack also offers financing programs with 0% APR.

Likes/Dislikes about NordicTrack EXP 10i

Likes

  • Interval programs – The interval program series hosted by coaches is highly interactive and motivating, helping you stay energized and inspired for workouts.
  • Highly effective – iFit classes hosted via the EXP 10i keep users entertained and active to reach their goals. 
  • Smart Response Motor – The 2.5 CHP Plus Motor is optimal for long-distance running due to its quiet and responsive drive system, allowing smooth speed and interval changes.
  • Foldable treadmill – EXP 10i’s The running deck can also be easily lifted into a compact form despite being a heavy-duty iFit treadmill. 
  • Cushioning options – The EXP 10i allows customization options with cushioning to help match different workout routines when needed. 
  • Multitasking – The touchscreen panel allows you to multitask apps for your workout, just like a tablet.

Dislikes

  • Incline – The incline does not automatically go back to zero after a down-to-top interval; you’ll need to manually switch the incline to zero.
  • Large console – Not everyone may like the large console. The extra space could have been for the touchscreen instead.

Overall Experience

There are not many cons when it comes to this NordicTrack model. The EXP 10i offers a variety of workouts to keep you entertained and motivated. Its smart experience allows you to experience the world through smooth and challenging intervals that can mimic scenic routes. While most Smart treadmills cost $2000+, NordicTrack provides high-quality smart treadmills such as the EXP 10i for a fair price.

6. Sole F63

Best for – Buyers looking for a budget overall high-quality treadmill around $1000.00

My take 

The Sole F63 is an affordable treadmill that’s competitive with high-end brands. It also has a mix of everything to cater to your fitness goals. Sole offers a variety of uses in 1 treadmill to keep with a ¼ mile track feature and Peak and Valley graph to maximize your program. Sole F63 is structured not just to reach your goals but also to prioritize your safety and well-being.

Key Features

  • Running belt dimensions: 20-inch W x 60-inch L
  • Assembled dimensions: 35-inch width x 82-inch length x 66-inch height
  • Heart rate sensors: pulse grip & chest strap 
  • Weight: 254 lbs
  • Weight capacity: 325 lbs
  • Design: folding treadmill
  • 6.5-inch LCD screen
  • Motor: 3.0HP, DC Type
  • Speed: .5 to 12 mph
  • Incline: up to 15 levels
  • Inclusions: cooling fans, USB charging port, Bluetooth compatible, built-in programs, low-profile running hood, large stop switch, Bluetooth speakers, phone/tablet holder
  • Warranties: Sole also offers a 5-year warranty extension for $89.00
    • Lifetime warranty: frame & motor
    • 3-year warranty: deck, parts, electronics
    • 1-year warranty: labor

Pricing

The Sole F63 costs $1,199.00. You can also pay through their financing programs: 

  • CitizenPay
    • Pay for as low as $65.00 a month.

Likes/Dislikes about Sole F63

Likes

  • Convenience – The SoleF63 includes rollers that change your incline and speed settings. 
  • Manual – Sole F63’s manual is easy to understand and concise for faster setups and customization processes.
  • Chest strap – The chest strap heart rate sensors are a great addition to track your desired heart rate while maintaining the proper running form.
  • Performance – The SoleF63 is known for its sturdiness and minimal noise.
  • Automatic incline – The incline can adjust automatically during runs based on your interval program options.
  • Versatile – Sole’s F63 is meant to cater to all means; for athletes, senior citizens, physical therapy, or overall fitness.
  • Easy to assemble – Experienced buyers with complete tools will have no problem setting this up. However, it’s best to have assistance while building the SoleF63 due to its weight.
  • Secure tablet/phone holder – The tablet/phone holder is certified durable and can keep your smart devices safely on display while you exercise.

Dislikes

  • Weight – The model is heavy due to its durable structure. The Sole F63 is a high-powered quality machine that takes around two people to carry.
  • Packaging – Packaging should match its product’s durability to avoid damaging parts during transit. 
  • Design – The Sole F63’s design may not seem aesthetically pleasing due to its bulky structure.
  • Delivery – Some areas have experienced heavy delays in receiving the Sole F63. Courier services may be problematic depending on the branch and where you live.
  • Technical support team – Technical issues found in the treadmill may be difficult to solve due to the lack of assistance from Sole’s tech support team.
  • Noise  – The Sole F63 may develop a faint squeaking noise when increasing the speed but quiets back down after 5.5 to 6 seconds.

Overall Experience

You can achieve fitness goals while the Sole F63 flawlessly follows your lead. Aside from advanced inclusions such as Bluetooth speakers, cooling fans, and charge ports, extra precautions such as the large stop switch allows your machine to halt in case of emergencies. Sole F63’s impressive durability guarantees that your workout sessions function smoothly and safely.

7. Horizon Fitness T101

Best for – Buyers looking for a quality budget treadmill under $700.

My take 

The Horizon T101 is an older version of the T202. It has many similar specs to its younger model, such as its smooth and quality performance. 

It provides fixed and customizable intervals for smooth and energizing workouts at the fairest price. 

Key features

  • Running area dimensions: 20-inch W x 55-inch L
  • Assembled dimensions: 34-inch width x 71-inch length x 57-inch height
  • Weight: 180 lbs
  • Frame type: Featherlight foldable treadmill
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • 3-zone variable response cushioning
  • Motor: Ultra-quiet Johnson Drive System
  • Speed: 0.5 to 10 mph
  • Incline: 0 to 10%
  • Inclusions: Bluetooth connectivity, Audio in/out Jack, bottle holder, speed & incline EasyDial Controls, Tablet rack, USB charging system (1A/5V)
  • Electronic requirement: 60 Hz. – 120 V. Not compatible with GFCI outlets
  • Warranties
    • Lifetime warranty: motor and frame
    • 1-year warranty: parts and labor (Can be upgraded to 3 years for $119 or 5 years for $149)

Pricing

The Horizon T101 costs only $649.00. You can also apply for credit payments through their financing programs: 

  • CitizensPay and Genesiscredit 0% APR:
    • $19 for 36 months
    • $28 for 24 months
    • $37 for 18 months 
    • $55 for 12 months 

Likes/Dislikes about Horizon T202

Likes

  • Awarded – T101 is a celebrated and recognized budget treadmill in the fitness industry. Here are some of its notable awards:
    • 2021 Best Buy award from Fitprof
    • 2021 Best Buy award from Treadmill Doctor
    • Best Buy Treadmill award from Treadmill Talk
  • Convenience – The Horizon T101 is built for easy and quick use for hassle-free workouts.
  • Cost-effective – Horizon’s T101 is notably a quality treadmill at an affordable price and impressive warranty.
  • Durability – The model is built to be highly durable to be used in the long run.
  • Performance – The T101’s motor manages speed changes and intervals smoothly and quietly, causing less annoyance and disturbance.

Dislikes

  • Delivery issues – There have been high cases of receiving damaged treadmill parts due to poor courier handling. 
  • Low speakers  – The Bluetooth speaker volume is too low to enjoy. 
  • Customer service – Horizon’s T101 customer service often takes a while to respond to concerns and inquiries. 
  • Vague manual – The set-up instructions are vague and poorly constructed for readers to understand.
  • Unstable console – The console shakes during walking intervals.
  • Not portable – The Horizon T101 is too dangerous to move for one person and requires assistance. 
  • Running area – The running belt moves to the side and frequently needs to fix the lubricator.

Overall Experience

The Horizon T101 is an excellent investment for those looking to start their fitness journey. You can enjoy quality workouts with lag-free transitions and entertainment to stay energized. Horizon’s T101 has intuitive speed and incline dial controls to keep you focused and exercise without needing to peer down at the console constantly. This is a great deal for an affordable treadmill when slowly taking your workout sessions to the next level.

What is a running treadmill?

Image from Pexels

After listing down all the best affordable treadmill picks, you may still be debating why you need one. Running treadmills is a popular cardio machine that mimics outdoor runs but lessens the impact due to their smooth and flat running surface.

Using a treadmill is a great way to keep your exercise routine on track, no matter the weather. It’s one of the best and easiest cardio to help burn calories and strengthen muscle groups.

FAQ

Image from Pexels

Now that you have a good grasp of the importance of treadmills and the best deals you can catch, you may have some related questions you’re considering when looking at affordable treadmills.

Are budget treadmills worth it?

Investing in a treadmill will help strengthen a healthy lifestyle in the long run, but you can still find quality budget treadmills that include only certain specs that match your needs to cut off the price.

How much does a decent treadmill cost?

The base price for quality treadmills is often above $1000.00. But there are many affordable treadmill deals under $1000 whose performance is still competitive with high-end treadmills.

Can you run on cheap treadmills?

Most affordable treadmills are built best for walking or easy jogging. The difference it may have with high-end treadmills is their motor and deck size. However, there are still cheap running treadmills that offer quality workout programs that you can comfortably practice running on.

Summary

Investing in your treadmill is a big step in your fitness journey. But many cheap treadmills offer high-quality performance like expensive treadmills above $2000. Discovering the best picks requires loads of research. Home treadmills best serve as foldable treadmills for easier and faster storage. Each caters to different fitness goals, and it takes tedious research to find the perfect match for you. You can also check out retail stores such as Sunny Health Fitness for better deals.

Many budget treadmills exceed a basic treadmill. Knowing what you do and don’t need will help you cut costs and discover the best budget treadmills for your home gym equipment, achieving your fitness goals faster with a good workout!