The biggest lie told to new runners is how affordable the sport is. Even if you are a walker, things can get expensive. Regular shoe updates, a fitness tracker, exercise clothes, and more might start as minor expenses but add up over time. If you are looking for a more cost-effective treadmill than your gym membership, look no further.
Buying a treadmill for your home is a significant expense. Searching for a treadmill on a budget can seem frustrating, but we’re here to help! Rest assured, you can still find a quality home treadmill at an affordable price to maximize the return on your investment. Keep reading to learn what our experts decided about each of these affordable machines.
Best Cheap Treadmills, Compared:
 Sole F63 |  Horizon T101 |  ProForm Carbon TLX |  Horizon 7.0 AT |  Horizon T202 |  WalkingPad R2 | |
| Price (MSRP) | $2,299 | $2,299 | $2,499 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star Rating | ||||||
| Bottom Line | An entry-level treadmill with a high-quality build, impressive training options, and an easy-to-use design, all for an affordable price. | The Horizon T101 is one of the best-selling models in its price range and is a great option if you are looking for a treadmill for walking or light jogging. | This budget treadmill is great for running and allows you to use it with or without iFIT on your device. | A great budget treadmill for running that’s compact and easy to use with simple non-subscription workouts. | This affordable and easy-to-use treadmill is ideal for dedicated walkers and the occasional jogger. | The R2 is a great space saver and multi-functional treadmill. Allowing you to use it under a desk or as a stand alone machine. |
| Awards Earned | ||||||
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
| Product | Sole F63 | Horizon T101 | ProForm Carbon TLX | Horizon 7.0 AT | Horizon T202 | WalkingPad R2 |
| Workout Experience | 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 |
| Specs / Features | 6 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 7 |
| Dimensions / Storability | 8 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| On-Board Workouts & Apps | 6 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 6 |
| Build Quality | 6 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 6 |
| Overall Score | 64 | 64 | 68 | 68 | 62 | 74 |
| # of Onboard Workouts | 6 | 6 | 1 | 8 | 6 | 1 |
| Paid Programming - Cost | Free | N/A | iFIT – $39/month | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Netflix / 3rd Party Apps | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Display | 6.5″ backlit LCD | 3 LED windows | 7″ high-contrast digital screen | 7.25″ LCD screen, 4 LED windows | 7″ LCD Screen, 3 LED windows | LED digital display |
| Dimensions (In Use) | 77″L x 35″W x 67″H | 71″ L x 34″ W x 57″ H | 74.3″ L x 35.1″ W x 59.1″ | 76″ L x 35″ W x 66″ H | 76″ L x 34″ W x 57″ H | 57” L x 28” W x 40” H |
| Deck Size | 20″ x 60″ | 20“ x 55” | 20″ x 60″ | 20″ x 60″ | 20″ x 60″ | 47” x 17” |
| Folding? | ||||||
| Treadmill Weight | 224 lbs | 180 lbs | 249 lbs (in box) | 277 lbs | 187 lbs | 80 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 325 lbs | 300 lbs | 300 lbs | 325 lbs | 325 lbs | 240 lbs |
| Motor Size | 3.0 CHP | 2.5 HP | 3.0 CHP | 3.0 CHP | 2.75 CHP | Brushless |
| Max Speed | 12 mph | 10 MPH | 12 mph | 12 mph | 12 mph | 3.7 MPH, 7.45 MPH |
| Incline/Decline | 15 incline levels | 0% to 10% | 0 to 12% | 0% to 15% | 0 to 12% | N/A |
| Warranty | lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 2-year deck, 2-year parts, 2-year wear items, 1-year labor, 90-day cosmetic items | lifetime frame & motor, 1-year parts & labor | 10-year frame, 1-year parts, 1-year labor | lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 3-year parts, 1-year labor | lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 1-year parts, 1-year labor | 1-year |
| Additional Features | Bluetooth speakers, storage, USB-A charging | Bluetooth speakers, EasyDial controls, device rack | AutoAdjust, storage, Bluetooth | Bluetooth, Quick Dial controls, 3-zone cushioning | 3-zone cushioning, EasyDial controls, Bluetooth speakers | 2-in-1 folding design, adjustable height handle, |
Best Cheap Treadmills of 2024 – Our Experts’ Top Picks
We ran on, ranked, and reviewed these treadmills. Budget shoppers will benefit from an overview of each treadmill’s performance and features before they commit to their purchase.
Sole F63 Treadmill
- 3.0 HP motor
- 20” x 60” running surface
- No subscription required
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
- Folding frame
- Easy transport
- Weak fan
- The incline mechanism could be better.
In addition to the impressive construction, the Sole F63 has a straightforward console. The console has preprogrammed workouts to follow along with or manual training to do your own thing. Access to these workouts requires no subscription, so you won’t have to worry about an extra monthly cost, even if you use the Sole+ app with trainer classes on your phone or tablet.
The F63 has a basic yet functional console with quick-touch buttons to change speed and incline settings. It can go up to 12 mph and has 15 incline levels (up to ~12%). You’re sure to get a killer workout on this affordable treadmill!
Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole F63.
Interested in the Sole F63?
NordicTrack T Series 5 Treadmill
- iFIT compatible
- Compact dimensions
- Low price
- Automatic incline and speed adjustments
- 300-lb weight capacity
- Does not fold
- 18” x 55” running surface
The NordicTrack T Series 5 is compatible with iFIT. It has a 10 mph maximum speed and a 10% maximum incline. These settings automatically adjust when you have iFIT connected with an active subscription. We can’t get enough of their classes, but seeing as there are thousands of them, we won’t run out any time soon.
While it is a very compact treadmill, the T Series 5 is not a folding treadmill. The console and uprights are minimal, and there’s no supporting frame under the treadmill to let it fold. I wish they had opted for a console that folds down like the old ProForm City L6; however, you’ll just have to make sure you have enough room for this petite machine to stay as is.
Interested in the NordicTrack T Series 5?
Horizon T101 Treadmill
- Moderate cushioning
- Lightweight folding frame
- 300-lb weight capacity
- No subscription required
- Simple console
- Not ideal for running
- Limited tech features
The console is one of the most simple ones on this list. Instead of a screen, the T101 has three small LED displays to show your workout metrics. If you want some entertainment, the device rack lets you use your phone or tablet to watch and read whatever you want.
The 20” x 55” deck and 2.5 CHP motor make this treadmill best for walking and light jogging. Its 10% max incline and 10 mph max speed are enough to get you moving on this great treadmill. The 3-zone variable response cushioning feels soft and protects your joints. This makes the Horizon T101 not only a great buy but comfortable to use as well.
If you’re looking for the best cheap treadmill for walking, check out the Horizon T101.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon T101.
Interested in the Horizon T101?
ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
- 3.0 CHP motor
- 20” x 60” running surface
- iFIT-compatible
- Tablet rack
- Folding frame
- Firm cushioning
- Doesn’t include all iFIT features
Kaleigh 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 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?
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
- 3.0 CHP motor
- 20” x 60” running surface
- Moderately soft cushioning
- 15% maximum incline
- Folding frame
- Onboard training programs
- Not ideal for high-mileage
- Weak fan and speakers
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?
Echelon Stride-6 Treadmill
- Flat-folding frame
- Upright or horizontal storage
- 12 levels of incline
- Compatible with Echelon training content
- 20.5” x 60” running surface
- 2.5 CHP motor
- Limited features without a subscription
The Stride-6 does not have a touchscreen display. Instead, you can see your most essential metrics in the LED windows. You must connect your tablet or phone via Bluetooth with the Echelon app to access training content and more metric tracking.
Our favorite feature of the Echelon Stride-6 Treadmill is its folding design. The console and uprights fold down to the deck, and you can then stand the treadmill upright for storage. It has wheels for vertical and horizontal transport, which is super convenient. Keep in mind that the treadmill is not the lightest (182 lbs), so some users may struggle to lift it upright.
So, if you’re short on cash and space, check out this treadmill!
Interested in the Echelon Stride-6?
Horizon T202 Treadmill
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
- Folding frame
- 325-lb weight capacity
- 12% maximum incline
- 12 mph maximum speed
- Not ideal for serious runners
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?
ProForm Carbon TL Treadmill
- Compact folding frame
- iFIT compatibility
- Tablet rack
- 0 to 10 mph; 0 to 10% incline
- Automatic speed and incline adjustments
- Not ideal for daily running
- 18” x 55” running deck
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 to the treadmill as a built-in touchscreen would.
We recommend the ProForm Carbon TL for anyone on a budget that wants a nice iFIT treadmill with a full console and compact folding frame.
Interested in the ProForm Carbon TL?
WalkingPad R2 Treadmill
- 2-in-1 folding design
- Supports light running
- Very portable
- Free app training content
- Low step-up height
- Manual and automatic speed modes
- Not ideal for long distances
- 17” x 47” running surface
- 1-year warranty
- No incline
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?
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 easier 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.
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