Here at TRG, we walk and run on all kinds of treadmills, or as we refer to it, “treadmill testing.” Testing so many treadmills of all sizes means we can better recommend models based on our experience. Which brings us to you: you’re probably here because you need a treadmill that isn’t too large and heavy. Maybe you live in an apartment (like a couple of us) or need one that stores after your run to get your living room back.
Whatever your home and circumstance, we have a treadmill to recommend. We love small treadmills because they allow you to walk and run without wasting unnecessary space. Fitness should be accessible to everyone, and with all of the treadmills on the market, you can (with our help) find the best compact treadmill that fits your home, training goals, and budget.
Best Compact Treadmills, Compared::
 NordicTrack EXP 10i |  ProForm Carbon TLX |  Horizon T101 |  Sole F63 |  NordicTrack 1750 |  Horizon 7.0 AT |  WalkingPad X21 |  ProForm Pro 9000 | |
| Price (MSRP) | $2,299 | $2,299 | $2,2991799 | $2,499 | $2,299 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star Rating | ||||||||
| Bottom Line | A compact, foldable treadmill with iFIT integration on the 10″ touch screen. | This budget treadmill is great for running and allows you to use it with or without iFIT on your device. | 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. | An entry-level treadmill with a high-quality build, impressive training options, and an easy-to-use design, all for an affordable price. | A high-quality, interactive folding treadmill for most people that streams iFIT and features forgiving deck cushioning. | A great budget treadmill for running that’s compact and easy to use with simple non-subscription workouts. | The double-folding design makes this already very compact and lightweight treadmill fold up like a briefcase for use almost anywhere. | A compact, folding treadmill with a large, beautiful 22” touchscreen for streaming iFIT while running. |
| Awards Earned | ||||||||
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
| Product | NordicTrack EXP 10i | ProForm Carbon TLX | Horizon T101 | Sole F63 | NordicTrack 1750 | Horizon 7.0 AT | WalkingPad X21 | ProForm Pro 9000 |
| Workout Experience | 8 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 7 | 8 |
| Specs / Features | 5 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 8 |
| Dimensions / Storability | 9 | 8 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 8 |
| On-Board Workouts & Apps | 9 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 6 | 9 |
| Build Quality | 6 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 6 |
| Overall Score | 70 | 68 | 64 | 64 | 84 | 68 | 72 | 76 |
| # of Onboard Workouts | 2 | 1 | 6 | 6 | 2 | 8 | 1 | 2 |
| Paid Programming - Cost | iFIT – $39/month | iFIT – $39/month | N/A | Free | iFIT - $39/month | N/A | N/A | iFIT – $39/month |
| Netflix / 3rd Party Apps | Netflix, Prime (Beta Testing) | N/A | N/A | N/A | Netflix, Prime Video (Beta Testing) | N/A | N/A | Prime, Netflix (beta testing) |
| Display | 10″ HD touchscreen | 7″ high-contrast digital screen | 3 LED windows | 6.5″ backlit LCD | 14" HD touchscreen | 7.25″ LCD screen, 4 LED windows | LED digital display | 22″ HD touchscreen |
| Dimensions (In Use) | 70.8” L x 34.9” W x 59.7” H | 74.3″ L x 35.1″ W x 59.1″ | 71″ L x 34″ W x 57″ H | 77″L x 35″W x 67″H | 78.5” L x 35.6” W x 64.7” H | 76″ L x 35″ W x 66″ H | 39.6" L x 27.99" W x 55.9" H | 77.3″ L x 35.3″ W x 59.6″ H |
| Deck Size | 22″ x 55″ | 20″ x 60″ | 20“ x 55” | 20″ x 60″ | 20" x 60" | 20″ x 60″ | 18.1" x 47.6" | 20″ x 60″ |
| Folding? | ||||||||
| Treadmill Weight | 230 lbs (in box) | 249 lbs (in box) | 180 lbs | 224 lbs | 293 lbs (in box) | 277 lbs | 81.57 lbs | 263 lbs (in box) |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs | 300 lbs | 300 lbs | 325 lbs | 400 lbs | 325 lbs | 240 lbs | 300 lbs |
| Motor Size | 2.75 CHP | 3.0 CHP | 2.5 HP | 3.0 CHP | 3.5 CHP | 3.0 CHP | 1.0 HP | 3.6 CHP |
| Max Speed | 10 MPH | 12 mph | 10 MPH | 12 mph | 12 MPH | 12 mph | 7.45 mph | 12 mph |
| Incline/Decline | 0% to 12% | 0 to 12% | 0% to 10% | 15 incline levels | -3% to 12% | 0% to 15% | N/A | -3% to 12% |
| Warranty | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor | 10-year frame, 1-year parts, 1-year labor | lifetime frame & motor, 1-year parts & labor | lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 2-year deck, 2-year parts, 2-year wear items, 1-year labor, 90-day cosmetic items | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor | lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 3-year parts, 1-year labor | 1-year | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor |
| Additional Features | AutoAdjust, dual speakers, OneTouch controls | AutoAdjust, storage, Bluetooth | Bluetooth speakers, EasyDial controls, device rack | Bluetooth speakers, storage, USB-A charging | AutoAdjust, ActivePulse, soft cushioning | Bluetooth, Quick Dial controls, 3-zone cushioning | dial speed control, phone holder, adjustable handrail | ActivePulse, AutoAdjust, Google Maps |
Best Compact Treadmills of 2024 – Our Experts’ Top Picks
To help your search, we’ve included a quick summary of each treadmill’s pros and cons so you know what to expect. Get to know each treadmill as closely as we know them below.
NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill
- Great features for its size
- Soft deck cushioning
- Good for most homes
- Supports moderate use
- iFIT compatible
- 12% max incline and 10 mph max speed
- Nice tech features
- Noisy incline
- Deck a little short for long strides
The deck has soft cushioning that’s felt even as you take your first steps. The EXP 10i has softer cushioning than many treadmills in its class, making it an ideal choice for recovery and joint-sensitive users.
The 55” running surface is tailored more for walking and jogging, although short-strided runners like Sydney and Kaleigh should enjoy running at higher speeds up to 10 mph. And, while walking, jogging, and running, you can stream iFIT with a subscription for thousands of trainer-led workouts designed to keep your training structured and engaging.
Of course, being our top pick for this list, the NordicTrack EXP 10i is compact and has a beneficial storing feature. The deck folds up with an assist that helps you lift it. The EXP 10i weighs 230 lbs when delivered in the box, so it’s a good size, which is why we appreciate the folding system. When you’re ready to exercise, press your foot against the bar under the deck, and it will slowly lower to the floor.
For a treadmill that could work on an upper level, the NordicTrack EXP 10i has much to offer people looking for a storable treadmill to work up a great sweat on. However, you’ll want an extra hand (or a few) if you don’t have elevator access-we’re speaking from personal experience here!
Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack EXP 10i.
Interested in the NordicTrack EXP 10i?
ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
- Value pick for running
- Compact yet supportive for all strides
- Optional iFIT
- Device rack for phone/tablet
- 12% max incline and 12 mph max speed
- Well-constructed
- Moderate cushioning
- Unlock before first use
- Louder incline
The TLX’s 3.0 HP motor and 60” deck make it ideal for running. It isn’t the most powered treadmill on this list, but it’s one of the more affordable options in its class. The deck supports all stride lengths, so this treadmill is for runners who want to log some miles inside.
With moderate cushioning that feels neither too soft nor too firm, most people will be fond of running on this budget-friendly, well-constructed treadmill. It also features plenty of speed and incline to challenge most.
The roughly 74” long dimensions make it less compact than others on this list, but the easy-to-fold-up deck helps reduce the overall floor space it occupies when not in use.
If you’re looking to save on money and space while still being able to run, the ProForm Carbon TLX is a great choice. Although we love a few other budget-running treadmills on this list, too, we like using this one with iFIT on our device.
Click here to read our detailed review of the ProForm Carbon TLX.
Interested in the Sole F80?
Horizon T101 Treadmill
- Very affordable!
- Great for walking
- 300 lb weight limit
- Compact and lightweight
- Quiet and responsive motor
- Lifetime warranty
- Included workout programs
- Less tech than others
- No wireless heart rate tracking
The T101’s compact size and excellent price are awe-worthy. Although most can only walk and lightly jog on the 20” x 55” deck, some people can run on it, too. The belt moves up to 10 mph, and the deck inclines up to 10%, so you can work up a great sweat on this little treadmill!
The console is pretty simple. It has no streaming options from the LED windows, but there are six workout modes to vary your training. The device rack also makes watching content from your phone or tablet convenient. The T101 is a good option for parking in front of your TV when you want to zone out and walk, too.
This small treadmill is just that: compact. Its lightweight frame of 180 lbs makes it suitable for use on an upper-level story. You’ll probably need some help getting it up the stairs, but if you only need to move the T101 from room to room or around in the same room, it’s pretty easy.
If you’re looking for a compact treadmill for walking, consider the Horizon T101. It’s an easy-to-use fold-up treadmill that’s a great deal at a steal of a price, and it has a lifetime frame and motor warranty.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon T101 Treadmill.
Interested in the Horizon T101?
Sole F63 Treadmill Treadmill
- Budget-friendly
- Solid construction
- Long deck for running
- Included onboard workouts
- Bluetooth speakers and device rack
- Lifetime warranty
- Kick release system
- Weak fan
Although we wish the F63 had the release handle like the previous version instead of the kick release system to unfold it, this treadmill is still easy to store. You lift the back of the deck up. To unfold, you push your foot against the bar under the deck, and it will lower slowly.
A bit more robust than some of the other compact treadmills on this list, the F63 has a very solid deck with firm cushioning. If you’re a road runner, you’ll appreciate running on this one because it feels like cement. There is shock absorption to help lessen the impact on your joints, unlike cement.
The Sole F63 has a simple console with onboard workout programs, HIIT, cardio, fat burn, strength, and manual mode. You can also pair the F63 with your phone to use the Sole+ app for free trainer-led content. This app is free to use when purchasing a Sole machine; you need the serial number.
Sole helps to instill confidence in the construction and performance of the F63 with the lifetime frame and motor warranty.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Sole F63 Treadmill.
Interested in the Sole F63?
NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
- High-powered for long distances
- iFIT on the touchscreen
- Soft cushioning
- Great training features
- Inclines 12% and declines -3%
- For all abilities
- Highly-functional design
- No device rack for phone
- A little larger and heavier than others
The NordicTrack 1750 is one of our team’s favorite picks for running. It’s from the premium Commercial Series lineup of home treadmills, which feature some of the best deck cushioning we’ve ever experienced. We are thrilled with all this compact treadmill has to offer.
It is higher-priced and a little larger than some of the other small treadmills on this list because it has a heavy-duty motor for heavy training. Impressively, NordicTrack has made the 1750 compact enough to fit in many homes. The 20” x 60” deck doesn’t take up any unnecessary space while providing plenty of room to run up to 12 mph.
The 1750 is from NordicTrack and offers streaming from iFIT on the 14” touchscreen. Like our number one pick, the NordicTrack EXP 10i, it offers hands-free training and thousands of trainer-led workouts with iFIT.
The 1750’s touchscreen is a little larger, though. It also tilts and pivots to utilize the screen for training on and off the treadmill’s deck. For a treadmill of this caliber, it’s surprisingly easy to fold up. The lift assistance really kicks in so much that we can lift the deck with one hand.
For a space-saving treadmill with premium quality and features, consider the NordicTrack 1750. Hint: it’s even better with iFIT!
Click here to read our detailed review of the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill.
Interested in the NordicTrack Commercial 1750?
Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
- Affordable price
- Functional size
- Made for moderate running
- Comfortable cushioning
- Connects with 3rd-party apps
- Quiet, quick-adjusting motor
- Lifetime warranty
- Weak fan
- Not for heavy training
The 7.0 AT isn’t the most tech-innovative or sleek-looking treadmill, but it doesn’t require a subscription and pairs with plenty of apps such as Peloton, Zwift, Apple Health, and Kinomap. The simple console has onboard workout programs and sweet blue roller adjustment dials to reach the speeds and inclines you want.
The motor is also responsive, making it fun for interval training. You never have to wait for the motor to adjust for your next interval, leaving you to focus on your workout. It’s also quiet, so feel free to use it in most spaces.
In addition to its user-friendly and slim design and quiet motor, it’s covered with a lifetime warranty. We appreciate Horizon’s coverage of an affordable treadmill. The foldable deck also makes it convenient for multi-use rooms. The frame is functional for a 76” long treadmill.
The 7.0 AT also has lovely deck cushioning. Compared to the treadmills we tested, it’s fairly soft, making it great for those with joint problems. So, if you’re looking for a compact, comfortable, and affordable treadmill for running, we recommend the Horizon 7.0 AT.
Click here to read our detailed review of the Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill.
Interested in the Horizon 7.0 AT?
WalkingPad X21 Treadmill
- Extremely compact
- Double folds up
- Goes up to 7.45 mph
- Ideal for walking/light jogging
- Only 93 lbs
- Device rack included
- Fold hinge takes getting used to
- No incline
The X21 makes walking at home, whether that be a house or an upper-level apartment or condo, convenient. The deck is around 47.6” long, so it isn’t realistic for some people to run on, but it goes up to 7.45 mph if you want to jog along with walking. The WalkingPad X21 is smaller than treadmills in its price range. Its brushless motor and small stature make it better for lighter use.
Considering its size, the X21 from WalkingPad doesn’t have much cushioning. You can also feel the fold hinge, where the belt folds in half underfoot, so keep this in mind. These are small prices to pay for one of the best small and lightweight treadmills, though.
The console features an LED screen built into the handle. It’s easy to track your time, speed, distance, and calories. The center dial makes it easy to adjust the speed, too. The X21 pairs with the KS Fit app for tracking and access to trainer-led workout videos if those are your thing.
There isn’t an incline, but for a treadmill that will get you closer to hitting your 10k steps per day, the X21 makes up for it with its size and storage ability. Consider this extremely compact treadmill if you need something that stores out of sight and can be hauled up the stairs. It’s our pick as the best apartment treadmill.
Click here to read our detailed review of the WalkingPad X21 Treadmill.
Interested in the WalkingPad X21?
Echelon Stride-6 Treadmill
- For walking and running
- Slim design
- Folds flat and stores upright
- Device rack for phone/tablet
- Pairs with Echelon app
- Long deck for all strides
- 12.4 mph max speed and 12 incline levels
- 1-year warranty
- Not for distance training
The 2.5 CHP motor under the deck gives you plenty of room on the 60” deck. This length means all strides for walking, jogging, and running have room. The motor is a little lower-powered than others in its class, but it should still handle light to moderate use.
The console of the Echelon Stride-6 is packed with user-friendly features, enhancing your workout experience. It is equipped with quick-adjusting buttons and a device rack for your tablet, allowing you to stream your favorite content or use the Echelon app for trainer-led workout content. The roller adjustment buttons on the handles add a nice touch, making it easy to adjust the incline and speed as per your preference.
Along with being space-saving, the Echelon Stride-6 is a decent price. You won’t find many treadmills that store the same way, so if you think the Stride-6 will fit better in your home than a treadmill with a foldable deck, you should consider it.
Interested in the Echelon Stride-6?
ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill
- Large 22” touchscreen
- iFIT streaming
- Compact size for running
- Moderate cushioning
- 12% incline and -3% decline
- Uncomplicated to use
- Shakes at higher speeds
- Larger and heavier than others
The touchscreen offers to stream from iFIT, which is what a few other treadmills on this list offer, too. The Pro 9000 has the largest screen for streaming the thousands of outdoor-filmed workouts. iFIT is fun, immersive, and interactive on this treadmill. We especially love that it automatically adjusts the speed and incline during each class.
The Pro 9000 is ProForm’s premium treadmill, so it’s more expensive than many of the other compact treadmills on this list. However, it provides plenty of room for running and long-distance training without sacrificing extra space in your home.
The steel frame is solid, although the large touchscreen can shake slightly at higher running speeds up to 12 mph. This is common for treadmills with touchscreens, and it certainly doesn’t detract from the entertaining running experience that the Pro 9000 provides.
If you’re looking for an interactive, high-powered, compact treadmill, I’d check out the ProForm Pro 9000. It’s great for streaming iFIT.
Click here to read our detailed review of the ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill.
Interested in the ProForm Pro 9000?
What To Consider When Buying A Compact Treadmill
Before picking a small treadmill for your home, we recommend considering the following.
How much room do you have?
Considering a treadmill’s dimensions is important. By measuring how much room you have, you can determine if the treadmill you’re eyeing will fit. Along with the treadmill’s dimensions, we recommend factoring in a few feet surrounding the treadmill to ensure you’ll have enough room to use it. You’ll want to keep the rear of the deck fairly clear for safety.
Also, regarding space, what floor do you want to use your treadmill on? Is it an upper-level room? An apartment with no elevator access? Some treadmills are heavier than others, so you’ll want to keep the treadmill’s weight in mind, too. You can find the treadmill’s dimensions and weight on the manufacturer’s website and in our reviews here at TRG.
What kind of compact treadmill do you need?
We’ve included a variety of compact treadmills on our list above because there are many types. Most small treadmills have foldable decks, but some collapse flat, and others store so compactly that you can shove them away in a closet or under a bed. You want to think of the type of treadmill that will most benefit your home.
Typically, considering the deck size of the treadmill will help determine what you can do on it. 60” long decks are best for all users’ running strides. 55” is spacious enough for walking and jogging, although if you have a shorter stride, you can probably run on decks of this size, like some of our team members.
Decks under 50” are ideal for walking. Some people, like a few of our team members, can lightly run on mini treadmills with these deck lengths.
What is your budget?
Powerful, heavy-duty treadmills are often priced higher than those that handle just walking. Our list above includes budget-friendly options that can still support running, so if you need to save in price and not only space, we have you covered.
Do you want entertainment while you exercise?
Subscription training content is readily available on most treadmills nowadays. Long gone are the days of the “dreadmill” where it feels like you’re watching paint dry while you run. Many treadmills come with touchscreens equipped with training videos and even streaming apps like Netflix. Even treadmills with simple consoles and no trainer-led content often pair with training apps on your device.
The best small treadmill is the one that you’ll use, so while this might not seem important now, training and entertainment content can help keep you consistent with your treadmill training. And if you prefer zoning out, you’ll probably want a straightforward treadmill console without all the bells and whistles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you run on compact treadmills?
Compact treadmills come in different sizes. Most people will need a 60” deck to run comfortably, especially at higher speeds close to 10-12 mph. Treadmills with this deck length take up more room than treadmills with shorter decks, so keep that in mind. Many people can jog, if not run, on decks 55” long, but not everyone will have enough room—specifically those with long strides.
What should I look for in a compact treadmill?
When looking for a small treadmill, you should consider your budget, training goals, and home space. You want to be sure that the treadmill will fit where you plan on using it and that you can use it safely.
You also want to pick one that aligns with what you plan on doing on it. This means checking the deck length to ensure you have enough room to walk and run (if that is your goal) and considering the treadmill’s training capabilities and motor. Your budget is also important. Just because you’re looking for a treadmill doesn’t mean you can’t find a quality one that fits your budget.
What is the smallest treadmill available?
WalkingPad treadmills are some of the smallest we’ve tested. We have included the WalkingPad X21 as the smallest treadmill on our best compact treadmills list. Because of its size, weight, and storage capabilities, it is the kind of treadmill you can use in an apartment. It is best for walking and light jogging, although it might be too small for some people to comfortably jog and run on.
