Best Cheap Treadmills 2025 – Quality Budget Finds

Horizon T101 Treadmill

NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill

Sole F63 Treadmill

ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $1499
• ManufacturerProForm
• TypeFolding

Best Price at ProForm

68

The ProForm Carbon TLX works with or without subscription content from iFIT, offering a sturdy walk or run for a variety of exercisers.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  7

• Specs / Features

  6

• Dimensions / Storability

  8

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  6

• Build Quality

  6

What We Like:

• 3.0 CHP motor
• 20” x 60” running surface
• iFIT-compatible
• Tablet rack
• Folding frame

Areas For Improvement:

• Firm cushioning
• Doesn’t include all iFIT features

The ProForm Carbon TLX does not put its subscription training service (iFIT) front and center like every other NordicTrack and ProForm treadmill. We like that the ProForm Carbon TLX is compatible with iFIT, but it doesn’t feel like it lacks features without it. The downside is the lack of onboard programs. This treadmill is best for exercisers who already have training plans.

I really liked how smooth and stable the running deck felt. It mimicked running on the road pretty well. However, many exercisers will prefer a softer deck, so consider your shock absorption needs before purchasing the ProForm Carbon TLX.

The ProForm Carbon TLX exceeded our expectations in terms of price. It feels very sturdy and well-designed. We anticipate getting many more miles out of it than we would from other affordable treadmills. Additionally, the low-tech console is less likely to have tech issues compared to more expensive, high-tech options.

Click here to read our detailed review of the ProForm Carbon TLX.

Interested in the ProForm Carbon TLX?

Check Best Price

---

Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $999
• ManufacturerHorizon
• TypeFolding

Best Price at Horizon

68

The Horizon 7.0 AT is our top pick for runners looking to save a few bucks because it outperforms pricier machines.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  7

• Specs / Features

  6

• Dimensions / Storability

  8

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  7

• Build Quality

  6

What We Like:

• 3.0 CHP motor
• 20” x 60” running surface
• Moderately soft cushioning
• 15% maximum incline
• Folding frame
• Onboard training programs

Areas For Improvement:

• Not ideal for high-mileage
• Weak fan and speakers

The Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill is a great deal. A few features stand out that allow this treadmill to support running. It has a quiet 3.0 HP motor for light to moderate mileage, and the 20” wide by 60” deck gives most runners plenty of room.

The deck folds up using lift assistance, so you don’t have to lift the entire weight of the deck when folding. When unfolding, the deck lowers itself. This treadmill is compact yet sizable for running. It weighs 277 lbs and can handle users up to 325 lbs. A lifetime frame and motor warranty also backs its construction. Surprisingly, it’s not hard to move around, too.

The cushioning surpasses what we see from most cheap treadmills and entry-level models. It is forgiving underfoot for a comfortable running experience. The onboard training programs have preset speed and incline levels. Of course, you can also just hop on and do your own thing. It has a fantastic 15% incline for an extra challenge that rounds out its performance features.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon 7.0 AT.

Interested in the Horizon 7.0 AT?

Check Best Price

---

Horizon T202 Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $799
• ManufacturerHorizon
• TypeFolding

Best Price at Horizon

62

The Horizon T202 treadmill is a budget treadmill with a sturdy design and a reliable motor.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  6

• Specs / Features

  5

• Dimensions / Storability

  9

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  6

• Build Quality

  5

What We Like:

• Lifetime frame and motor warranty
• Folding frame
• 325-lb weight capacity
• 12% maximum incline
• 12 mph maximum speed

Areas For Improvement:

• Not ideal for serious runners

The Horizon T202 is another solid treadmill and affordable contender. It’s the next model up from the T101 and has a few different features, such as a larger 2.75 CHP motor, a 60” running surface, and a 12 mph max speed. All of this is great for jogging and walking. Light running can also work, but we don’t recommend it for running high mileage.

The straightforward console doesn’t require a membership and has six workout modes. Plus, it has a large rack to place your phone or tablet for added entertainment, which is entirely up to you. The Bluetooth-enabled speakers even let you stream audio from your device through them.

The Horizon T202 has the same 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning as the T101, which we like, so you’ll also get some protection for your joints when you use it.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon T202.

Interested in the Horizon T202?

Check Best Price

---

ProForm Carbon TL Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $599
• ManufacturerProForm
• TypeFolding

Check Best Price

61

The ProForm Carbon TL Treadmill is an affordable treadmill with iFIT compatibility.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  6

• Specs / Features

  6

• Dimensions / Storability

  8

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  6

• Build Quality

  5

What We Like:

• Compact folding frame
• iFIT compatibility
• Tablet rack
• 0 to 10 mph; 0 to 10% incline
• Automatic speed and incline adjustments

Areas For Improvement:

• Not ideal for daily running
• 18” x 55” running deck

The ProForm Carbon TL is a very affordable option from a brand we know and trust. It scales down some of the best features of the ProForm Carbon TLX but has an otherwise similar build. The deck is smaller than the average running treadmill at only 18” x 55” compared to 20” x 60”. The motor is also only 2.6 CHP, which is below our 3.0 HP running threshold.

I like that ProForm limited the speed and incline to 0 to 10 mph and 0 to 10%, respectively. I think this reflects the treadmill capabilities more accurately, and I recommend that most exercisers use the Carbon TL for walking.

Though the Carbon TL does not have a touchscreen, it can pair with a phone or tablet to access the iFIT digital training app. You need an iFIT Pro membership to access the classes, but if you decide to sign up, there are thousands of trainer-led classes to choose from. The Carbon TL will automatically adjust to the class’s preset training levels.

The ProForm Carbon TL has a tablet rack, speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity to support iFIT. However, it is not compatible with many of the personalized iFIT features since the app does not integrate as seamlessly with the treadmill as a built-in touchscreen would.

We recommend the ProForm Carbon TL for anyone on a budget who wants a nice iFIT treadmill with a full console and compact folding frame.

Interested in the ProForm Carbon TL?

Check Best Price

---

WalkingPad R2 Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $899
• ManufacturerWalkingPad
• Type2-in-1

Best Price at WalkingPad

74

The WalkingPad R2 solves two problems at once—low space and a low budget.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  7

• Specs / Features

  7

• Dimensions / Storability

  10

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  6

• Build Quality

  6

What We Like:

• 2-in-1 folding design
• Supports light running
• Very portable
• Free app training content
• Low step-up height
• Manual and automatic speed modes

Areas For Improvement:

• Not ideal for long distances
• 17” x 47” running surface
• 1-year warranty
• No incline

The WalkingPad R2 earned its place on this list with its unique design. The R2 strives for the (near) impossible: to operate as an under-desk treadmill and a running treadmill. Unfortunately, the super compact design is not the most conducive to running, but some runners can log a few easy miles. Kaleigh logged runs as long as 7 miles on the R2.

We like that the R2 does not require a subscription, especially since its design isn’t suitable for one. Yet, the KS Fit app provides the R2 with many training options that wowed us since it’s free. If you get an R2 of your own, it’s worth checking out the app for the automatic speed adjustments.

You can turn on the automatic speed mode when the R2’s console is in walking or under-desk mode (folded down). This mode increases and decreases the belt speed depending on where you are on the deck. It was a little tricky for us to get the hang of it, but it’s super cool for hands-free walking workouts.

We recommend the WalkingPad R2 for anyone who needs to save money and space.

Click here to read our detailed review of the WalkingPad R2.

Interested in the WalkingPad R2?

Check Best Price

---

DeerRun A1 Pro Treadmill

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $459
• ManufacturerDeerRun
• TypeFolding

Best Price at DeerRun

68

The DeerRun A1 Pro Treadmill is a compact treadmill that allows you to run in the smallest of spaces.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  7

• Specs / Features

  7

• Dimensions / Storability

  10

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  7

• Build Quality

  6

What We Like

• Compact size
• Folds flat
• Under $500
• 3.0 HP motor
• 6% manual incline
• Optional training app

Areas For Improvement:

• The folding mechanism requires an Allen wrench.
• The deck may be too small for some runners.

There are few treadmills this compact and small that still let you get a run in. I’ve put the A1 Pro to the test, and while it’s noticeably different from full-sized fitness treadmills, it gets the job done. The deck is 16.5” x 42.3”, so you’ll have to be mindful of your stride if you run fast, but the motor will let you go up to 10 miles per hour!

The DeerRun A1 Pro costs less than $500 (at the time of writing this), and it has features we haven’t been able to find in similarly priced treadmills. For one, it has a 3.0 HP motor, which is uncommon for a budget machine. It also has a 350-lb weight capacity.

While the DeerRun A1 Pro does not require a subscription, it does pair with an app called PitPat. This app does offer subscription content, but it’s entirely optional. If you want to pay, then you can race against other PitPat members and take part in events. Training manually on the A1 Pro is what I normally do, and I don’t feel like I’m missing anything by not using the app.

Click here to read our detailed review of the DeerRun A1 Pro Treadmill.

Interested in the DeerRun A1 Pro?

Check Best Price

---

What to Consider when Buying a Cheap Treadmill

If you’re looking for an affordable treadmill, you probably already know the price range you’re looking to spend. Budget-friendly ones range from at least $500 to around $1300. Any cheaper than $500, and you’ll most likely get a machine that won’t hold up for long and has very limited workout capabilities. But what about cheap treadmills within that price range?

Check The Specs

When buying a treadmill, it’s important to check out its features and specifications. If you’re confused about what the different motor and treadmill belt sizes mean, I will explain them.

Motors typically range from 1.5 to over 4.0 horsepower. Our testing found that treadmills with 2-3 HP motors handle walking and light jogging best. We recommend a 3.0 HP motor or higher for heavy use (marathon training, multiple runners per day, etc). So, you shouldn’t buy a treadmill with a motor smaller than 3.0 HP if you plan to train hard.

Treadmills with a motor less than 2.0 HP are usually much smaller and can be stored out of sight when not in use, like under a bed.

Another spec that we pay close attention to is the running surface size. We have reviewers ranging from 5’ tall to 6.5’ tall, and we’ve determined that a 60” long deck is best for users of all heights and stride lengths to run comfortably on. For electric treadmills, like all the ones on this list, a width of at least 20” is sufficient.

In some cases, if you have a shorter running stride, 55” long decks can work for running. Just make sure that the other specs, like the motor, can support heavier use like running, too. Usually, deck lengths under 55” are only suitable for walking for most people.

We also recommend checking out the weight capacity. On home treadmills, 400 lbs is typically the maximum weight capacity, but more affordable treadmills rarely have limits up to that. 300 lbs is still really great and can accommodate most users. A good rule of thumb is that the heavier the weight capacity, the more solid and durable the treadmill most likely is.

Your Home Space

Now that you’ve gotten an idea of what to look for in terms of the specs of a treadmill, let’s fit one in your home. All treadmills generate some sound, although most have a relatively low noise output. But what about the size of your space? Do you need a treadmill that folds up? Do you need a smaller, compact one that fits under furniture? Do you need to move it around often?

Fortunately, all of the treadmills on this list fold up and have wheels for transporting, although some can move around more easily than others. If you have physical limitations, though, moving your treadmill might be out of the question, especially if it is larger. If the treadmill inclines and you have lower ceilings, it might also be more challenging to fit in your space.

Content Preference And Workout Goals

As mentioned above, if you’re looking for a treadmill to run and sprint on, you must determine if it can handle that use. In addition to making sure that the treadmill is suitable for what you want to do with it, you also want to make sure that you’ll actually use it.

If you buy a treadmill that requires an additional monthly subscription to utilize all of its features, and you aren’t into trainer-led classes and paying an extra fee, then odds are you won’t like or use the treadmill. It’s important to see what kind of content the treadmill comes with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is A Cheap Treadmill Worth It?

In our experience, a cheaper treadmill can be worth it. However, we recommend looking for one priced over $500. The really inexpensive treadmills commonly found on Amazon for $100 or $200 most likely won’t be worth the money. Plus, they usually come with more limited functionality, like smaller decks and motors and lower max speeds and incline levels (if they incline at all).

Treadmills closer to $1000, and even in the $500 to $700 range, can be great options, especially if they’re from a good brand like all of the treadmills on this list. We also strongly encourage consumers to buy directly from the treadmill manufacturer for their warranty package.

How Do I Get The Best Deal On A Treadmill?

Brands can offer sales and discounts at any time. Later in the year, from around Black Friday all the way through January, can be a great time to score a deal. Usually, towards the end of the year and into the new year, brands will offer discounts on models they plan to discontinue or upgrade.

Is It Worth It To Buy An Expensive Treadmill?

Buying a high-end, expensive treadmill can be worth the investment. Typically, more expensive models have a more durable construction that lasts longer. It can be worth it if you use it regularly and heavily. If this sounds like your goal, we recommend paying extra for a treadmill that can handle long-term, heavy use.

How Long Do Cheap Treadmills Last?

It’s hard to give an exact timeline because it depends on what it is being used for, how much it is, the build quality, and how often it is used. More expensive treadmills ($2000+) will likely last longer than treadmills under $1000. But with regular maintenance, like belt lubrication if it’s needed and appropriate use, the treadmill could last for years.

If you’re looking for an affordable treadmill, we recommend looking into treadmills over $500 to around $1000. Anything under $500, like treadmills found on Amazon, likely won’t last and lacks quality overall.