Best Folding Treadmills – 2023

Sydney Kaiser

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Last Updated: January 13, 2023

Are you in the market to find the best folding treadmill? Thanks to recent upgrades by many equipment manufacturers, there are a lot of great foldable treadmills on the market today with some pretty impressive features! We’ve personally tested every treadmill on this list to determine the best folding treadmills in 2023.

Our folding treadmill reviews provide you a quick overview of each of our top treadmills, details on specs, and a few reasons why each one made our list. When looking for a foldable treadmill, you’ll want to consider the overall frame design and comfort, how much power you’ll need, whether or not you want a touchscreen, and what size deck is best suited for you. We consider all these factors when evaluating treadmills that fold up, so let’s take a look at our updated list for 2023!

Best Folding Treadmills 2023:

• 1. Sole F85 Treadmill
• 2. Nordictrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
• 3. LifeSpan 2000e Treadmill
• 4. Horizon T303 Treadmill
• 5. Echelon Stride Treadmill
• 6. ProForm 9000 Treadmill
• 7. Nordictrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
• 8. Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
• 9. WalkingPad X21 Double-Fold Treadmill

Sneak Peek of Best Treadmills:

 

Check Out The Best Folding Treadmills of 2023

1. Sole F85 Treadmill

The Sole F85 has been upgraded with a 10” touchscreen that comes preloaded with apps for Netflix, YouTube, ESPN, and several news channels. The Sole F85 is easily folded by simply lifting the deck. To unfold, simply pull the yellow lever on the right side of the deck and it will descend gently to the floor thanks to the hydraulic assist.

You can select a workout program and then watch your favorite show while the Sole F85 adjusts speed and incline for you! We find that most users are very interested in being able to access external programs on a treadmill touchscreen – however, most manufacturers don’t allow this. We love Sole’s forward-thinking approach by not only allowing external apps, but actually preloading them for you! While you have to have your own subscription for any of the seven preloaded apps, it is a nice feature that we think most users will really enjoy.

Sole has long been an industry leader in building quality, durable treadmills and the new Sole F85 is no exception. This machine has a 4.0HP motor, expansive deck that is 22” wide by 60” long, and supports up to 400lbs of user weight. It also folds up when you’re done and locks into place.

While many fitness manufacturers have transitioned to online subscriptions and training content, Sole treadmills remain technically simple but functionally proficient. The Sole F85 is easy to use and provides excellent training. This is not a compact folding treadmill – you get the full experience on this machine. If you are in the market for something quiet, powerful and foldable that also allows you to watch NetFlix and YouTube right on the screen – the Sole F85 is our top pick!

Read our full review of the Sole F85 Treadmill here.

2. Nordictrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill

The second folding treadmill on our list is the Nordictrack Commercial 2450. This folding treadmill has a 22” touchscreen and a clean, clutter-free console. The 2450 enjoyed a few key updates in 2023 making it even faster and quieter than before. The Nordictrack 2450 as EastLift Assist so the deck weight is supported as you lift it – reducing the load and difficulty. It is also easy to release. Simply press your foot against the “release bar” under the deck and it will descend gently to the floor thanks to hydraulic assist.

We find the 2450 to be a great all-around treadmill because of its powerful 3.6 HP motor, adjustable cushioning, 15% incline and -3% decline, and 12mph max speed. Homes with multiple users or those who need more intense training will appreciate this motor since it won’t overheat or lag even after extensive use. The running surface is 22” wide and 60” long, and it supports up to 300 lbs of user weight. The powerful motor and new, faster incline technology will support multiple users and extensive training. If you have several different people in your home who plan to use the treadmill, the 2450 will support walking, hiking, jogging, and both speed and distance training with ease!

The 22” console on the 2450 comes preloaded with iFit which is included free for the first 30 days. iFit has hundreds of both indoor and outdoor workouts. Indoor studio classes are led by personal trainers with other class participants included. The outdoor routes include walking, hiking, and running in various locations all over the world. The crisp screen graphics and impressive videography make iFit engaging and entertaining.

There’s a lot to love about the Nordictrack Commercial 2450. This folding treadmill is a great option for multiple users with a powerful motor and great iFit training content. If you are looking for a folding treadmill that has updated technology and subscription content, the 2450 is the perfect choice.

Read our full review of the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 here.

3. LifeSpan TR2000e Electric Folding Treadmill

Rounding out our top three best folding treadmills is the LifeSpan TR2000e. This is a unique treadmill because it has an electronic folding mechanism so the deck will fold and unfold for you just by pressing a button! This is a more compact folding treadmill, so it is a good option for petite users or those with limited space.

This folding treadmill has a 20×56” walking surface and a quiet 2.5HP motor. However, it will still go up to 11mph and inclines to a 15% grade. This sturdy treadmill is good for both walking and running and works especially well for those with limited space or mobility since it is easy to get on and off.

The electronic folding feature makes folding and unfolding this treadmill a breeze. When you are done, simply press the “Close” button and the deck will fold up against the console and lock into place. To unfold, simply press “Open” on the console and the deck will descend gradually to the floor. Seniors, those with back pain, or any other user who may find folding and unfolding the deck slightly difficult will appreciate the ease of this design!

The console is very simple and easy to use. You do not need WiFi or an internet connection for it to operate. Simply plug it in and you’re good to go! The LifeSpan TR2000e comes preloaded with several programs and is Bluetooth enabled for heart rate training. The console is bright and easy to understand. We love this treadmill for its unique features and design.

Read our full review of the LifeSpan TR2000e treadmill here.

4. Horizon T303 Treadmill

We love the Horizon Fitness T303 treadmill because it is compact, foldable and affordable. This foldable treadmill is typically priced around $1000 making it a viable option for many users. Because this treadmill is slightly lightweight and more compact than the Sole F85 or Nordictrack 2450, it is very easy to fold and unfold. Just lift the deck and it will lock into place against the console. To unlock, release the lever and it will descend to the floor on its own – no need to hold it as it drops down. The Horizon T303 will not “thud” against your floor.

The Horizon T303 has a 12% incline, 12mph max speed, a respectable 20” wide by 60” long running platform, and a 3.0 horsepower motor.

The T303 folds up so you can clear floor space when you’re not using it. The console features a backlit LCD screen and is Bluetooth enabled. There is a handy media shelf that will hold your phone or tablet in view as you workout. This machine includes 8 preloaded workouts and comes with a full lifetime warranty on the frame and motor.

For those looking for a folding treadmill that is both compact and affordable, the T303 is a great option. This hearty treadmill inclines to a 12% grade and is powered up to 12mph. It’s also easier to lift than comparable treadmills and has hydraulic assist for a smooth descent.

Read our full review of the Horizon T303 treadmill here.

5.  Echelon Stride Treadmill

The Echelon adds a new dimension to folding treadmills with its fully collapsible Stride treadmill! What makes the Stride unique is rather than the deck folding up against the console like on the Sole F85 or Nordictrack 2450, the uprights and console fold down against the deck. The Stride is 69.3″ L × 31″ W × 49.2″ H when it’s open. When folded it collapses down to just 10.25″ high – basically the height of the deck. The Stride still features a 55″ L × 20″ W walking surface with 12% Incline and a 12mph max speed, so even though it’s small it offers impressive training variables.

The Stride is excellent for walking, jogging or light running. While it can support running with a top speed of 12mph, users over 5’10” may find the Stride slightly compact for a full running gait. The motor is only 1.75HP which isn’t quite as powerful as other folding treadmills. However, it is a great option for college students, roommates, seniors and anyone with limited space who want something quiet and compact to use for walking, jogging and light running.

Console layout is slightly different on the Stride since it has to fold down. There is a tablet shelf in the center and a well-lit LCD display. If you use a tablet it will block the center of the console, but you can still see your speed and incline on the display.

The Stride only weighs 156lbs, so it is significantly lighter than other models on our list.
When you are finished, simply fold the uprights and console flat against the deck. A steel bar on one end and wheels on the other allow the Stride to be rolled where you need it to go: in a closet, under a bed or behind a couch. This treadmill will completely hide away when you’re not using it.

Read our full review of the Echelon Stride treadmill here.

6. ProForm Pro 9000 Treadmill

The ProForm Pro 9000 has been updated so it is more compact but still provides great training content. The ProForm Pro 9000 is a fully folding treadmill so you still get 20” of width and 60” of length on a folding frame. The deck will lift and lock against the console for security when it’s folded.

The Pro 9000 has some impressive features that make it quieter, smoother and more responsive. The 22” touchscreen is a nice addition and it really brings iFit training right into your home. The 3.6HP motor is sufficient for most types of training. This is a high-tech treadmill with ReBound Cushioning, a 12mph max speed and -3% decline and 12% incline.

If you are looking for something that is well-powered and works for running, jogging, walking or hiking, the Pro 9000 is a good option. Using this machine can help aid weight loss by stimulating a higher daily calorie burn. It will facilitate cardio conditioning as well as build muscle in your arms, core and especially your legs.

Read our full review of the ProForm Pro 9000 treadmill here.

7. Nordictrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

The Nordictrack 1750 is consistently one of the best-selling treadmills because it offers great training content on a cushioned treadmill that folds and locks into place. We refer to this as our favorite all-around treadmill. It’s good at pretty much everything but still comes in at a reasonable price. For buyers who want a folding treadmill that has a great track record for both design and performance, the Nordictrack 1750 is it.

Like the Nordictrack 2450, the NordicTrack 1750 features iFit training only on a slightly smaller touchscreen. The 1750 includes iFit free for the first month and the 14” screen is well-placed in the console for good visibility. It also tilts gently up and down so you can find the right height to reduce overhead glare. It pivots from side to side for training off the treadmill, too.

The soft cushioning is another feature we love about the 1750. For those with joint pain and issues, running on the 1750 is ideal. Treadmills from NordicTrack have some of the softest cushioning that we’ve tested and the 1750 is no exception to that.

Like other iFit-enabled treadmills, you get impressive training on the 1750. Both indoor and outdoor routes are available for walking, jogging, hiking and running. You can turn on a program and find yourself in some of the most beautiful locations in the world. This is a great folding treadmill that offers a nice combination of features that kind of hits that sweet spot!

Read our full review of the NordicTrack 1750 treadmill here.

8. Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill

The 7.0 AT is another affordable, folding treadmill from Horizon. The FeatherLight Folding mechanism makes this treadmill easy to fold and unfold with the hydraulic system. When not in use, the deck folds up and locks into place, so you don’t have to worry about the deck coming down, unexpectedly.

The 20” x 60” deck makes this treadmill perfect for most runners. The 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning provides excellent shock absorption for the joints, so it’s comfortable to use as well.

The 15% incline and 12 mph max speed offer plenty of variety within your training. We love that the treadmill can be quickly adjusted by using the QuickDial controls. Simply roll these dials forward and back to change the speed and incline of the 7.0 AT for quick adjusting while training. The 3.0 HP motor is designed to handle walking, jogging, and running. Horizon also backs up the motor and frame with a lifetime warranty. This makes the Horizon 7.0 AT a well-built, affordably-priced folding treadmill.

Users who don’t want a treadmill that requires an extra monthly fee should consider the Horizon 7.0 AT. On the console, you’ll have Bluetooth connectivity to third-party apps and onboard workouts. The device tray also makes it handy for streaming content from your device, whether that be a phone or tablet, while using this treadmill.

Read our full review of the Horizon 7.0 AT treadmill here.

9. WalkingPad X21 Double-Fold Treadmill

To round out our list of best folding treadmills, the WalkingPad X21 is unique in its folding capabilities. The deck folds in half and then folds again at the top of the deck to fold up vertically for storage. Although the WalkingPad X21 is a small treadmill that is ideal for users who have limited space, its folded footprint is incredibly tiny. When folded the length goes from 56” long (unfolded) to 9” (folded). The X21 can literally be placed over in a corner, against a wall, or in a closet, when not in use.

The X21 is not only compact and foldable but it has a 7.45 mph max speed. This treadmill is best for walking and lighter use. The deck is 18.1” wide by 47.6” long, making this size suitable for walking at lower and higher paces. Users up to 240 lbs can use the X21, too.

The uprights and handle are one singular piece that remains vertical whether you’re using or storing the WalkingPad X21. The console is streamlined and built into the handle so both are one piece. The OLED screen displays your time, speed, distance, calories, and steps and connects with your device via NFC connection.

What Should You Look For When Buying A Folding Treadmill?

When looking to purchase a treadmill there are several features you’ll want to consider.

Training Needs

While many of us have limited space options in our home, you want to look for a treadmill that has both the frame and motor size to support your weight, height, and training needs. If you are a 6’2” marathoner, not all compact folding treadmills will work. While there are some great ones on the market, make sure to research each machine so you get the best option for you. We often see buyers get something because it is on sale, inexpensive, or the right size – but then it turns into a very expensive coat rack because no one ever uses it. Make sure to get both what you want and what you need – you’ll be more likely to get the right training, and continue to use your treadmill in the future.

Space Limitations

Once you’ve determined your baseline needs in a treadmill, measure your room to determine the dimensions. A few recommendations: check ceiling height and compare this with the height of your tallest user on the highest incline; then add a few inches for “bounce.” Watch for ceiling fans! Folding treadmills come in full-size (Nordictrack 2450) and compact units (Echelon Stride) so you have a wide range of options. We recommend placing your treadmill away from high traffic areas and out of the way of children and pets. We do not recommend purchasing a treadmill if you are close to or just over the listed weight capacity – even if you plan to lose weight!

Treadmill Console Design

Some people are fine with a simple console and others want all the bells and whistles with an attached touchscreen and video content. Thankfully, folding treadmills are no longer just your Grandma’s watered-down version. You can find some impressive features on a folding model! If you want to watch external apps such as NetFlix or other streaming devices, look for a touchscreen that supports this — or opt to get something simple and set it in front of a TV. Console design affects how the treadmill functions so if the console seems clunky or outdated, that could limit how often you want to use it.

Subscription Options

Many treadmills feature subscription content. Sometimes this is offered free for the first year and other times you have to subscribe right away. Subscription content does make it more likely you will use your machine. Classes and videos help people stay engaged and motivated. But they are also an added expense. Most subscriptions run from $19 up to $40/month, so evaluate how much value it offers to you and if it’s worth it. Be aware, treadmill touchscreens are designed to display only the proprietary content of each manufacturer, so you can’t watch TV or use the internet on most treadmill screens.

Treadmill Folding Capability

Evaluate how difficult it is to fold your anticipated treadmill. While many treadmills have a hydraulic assist so you don’t have to lower the deck to the floor, they can still be heavy to lift and lock. Smaller users, seniors or those with back problems may not be able to lift a treadmill deck if it is too large or heavy. Typically the weight of the machine is a good indicator of how heavy the deck will feel. A few treadmills, like the LifeSpan TR2000e, have an electronic folding feature. We recommend this for those who may not be able to safely fold the deck otherwise.

Moving Capacity

Do you plan to just fold up your machine when you are finished or will you move it regularly as well? Even though a treadmill folds doesn’t mean it is lightweight or easy to move. Hard surfaces such as a garage floor, basement or tile are easier for rolling a treadmill, while carpet can be quite difficult and even buckle depending on the weight of the machine. We do not recommend moving your treadmill up/down stairs regularly as this is challenging and can hurt people or damage the machine.

Warranty/Durability

A warranty is a good reflection of the manufacturer’s confidence in that particular product. We recommend looking for a warranty that has at least five years coverage on the frame with two years on parts and one for labor. This coverage is pretty standard. We are wary of companies that only offer a 12 month limited warranty. Also look for “restocking fees” that may be as much as $250 to return your treadmill – even within the initial 30 days. Read the warranty and return policy carefully.

Are you still wondering what features and specs you want or need in your treadmill? Check out our treadmill buying guide for an in-depth look at purchasing your new treadmill.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Average Size of a Folding Treadmill?

That depends on the treadmill you choose! The treadmills on our list range from 156 pounds on a compact frame for the Echelon Stride — up to 360 pounds and a full size frame for the Nordictrack 2450. Since many manufacturers have adapted their treadmills to fold, you can find a compact version or full-frame folding tread depending on your needs and the space available in your home.

Do Folding Treadmills Have Incline?

Yes! Most do. All the folding treadmills on our list incline. There are smaller models available that don’t feature incline, but our list includes treadmills with necessary features and specs for everything from gentle walking to marathon training. The treadmills on our list range from a 12% up to 15% incline.

Can I Train for a Marathon on a Folding Treadmill?

Absolutely! The only treadmill on our list we would hesitate to recommend for marathon training would be the Echelon Stride simply because the thinner, smaller deck may not be comfortable for long distance training. However, every other treadmill would support extended training with hill work, speed options and plenty of motor power.

Where Should I Put My Folding Treadmill?

All treadmills should be stored in an area that is clear of doors, stairs, curtains, ceiling fans and retractable shade/blind cords. Treadmills can shift slightly when in use and may impact walls in close proximity, so we recommend leaving a small gap between your treadmill and your wall. While folding treadmills are convenient, they need to be safely folded and locked when not in use to protect children or pets in the home. Never place a treadmill in a high-traffic area where people have to step under or around it frequently. A locked room away is always best – although many people don’t have this luxury. Remove the safety key after use and place it away from the treadmill.

Can I Use A Folding Treadmill Upstairs?

Yes, but we don’t recommend carrying your treadmill up/downstairs with any regularity. If you plan to use a treadmill on an upstairs floor, assemble it there. Some door frames are not wide enough to allow a treadmill to be rolled in/out of a room. Evaluate the weight of the treadmill and the structure of your floors to make sure you place your treadmill in an appropriate location.