Best Folding Treadmills – 2023

Sydney Kaiser

*TreadmillReviewGuru helps consumers find the best home fitness products. When you buy a product we recommend, we may earn a commission.

Last Updated: September 11, 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 with 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!

Why You Should Trust Us

When it comes to treadmills, we know more than the average person because we’ve been testing treadmills for several years. There are treadmills of all types and sizes that come with different features. As far as home treadmills, the majority of treadmills we’ve tested actually fold up. This key feature can save a lot of space in your home and definitely makes a treadmill more manageable and friendly for more homes. To compile this list of the best folding treadmills, we’ve included the models that have the best folding features that we’ve experienced firsthand.

Best Folding Treadmills 2023:

• 1.Best Folding Treadmill Overall: Sole F85 Treadmill
• 2.Best Folding Treadmill For Home: Nordictrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill
• 3.Best Folding Treadmill For Walking: Horizon T101 Treadmill
• 4.Best Folding Treadmill Runner-Up: Echelon Stride Treadmill
• 5.Best Folding Treadmill With Large Screen: ProForm 9000 Treadmill
• 6.Best Folding Treadmill For Running: NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill
• 7.Best High-Incline Folding Treadmill: Bowflex Treadmill 22
• 8.Best Budget Folding Treadmill: Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill
• 9.Most Compact Folding Treadmill: WalkingPad X21 Double-Fold Treadmill
• 10.Best Folding Treadmill Under $1500: Sole F63 Treadmill

Sneak Peek of Best Folding Treadmills:

 

Check Out The Best Folding Treadmills of 2023

1. Best Folding Treadmill Overall: Sole F85 Treadmill

Our pick for the best folding treadmill overall is the Sole F85 Treadmill. With a new updated design and features, the F85 continues to be one of our top recommended models, especially if you’re looking for a high-quality treadmill that folds up. What makes this treadmill beneficial for folding is that to unfold the deck all you need to do is pull the yellow handle on the back. Plus, when you fold it up the hydraulic system assists you in lifting. And once folded, the four front transportation wheels make it so you can just push the F85 where you need it to go.

One of the biggest reasons we love the Sole F85 is the powerful 4.0 HP motor and 375 lb weight limit. Not only can this treadmill handle pretty much anything you put it through, but it is great for larger runners. It’s also heavy itself at 319 lbs, but you wouldn’t know that by how easily it folds up and moves. Plus, the large 22” x 60” running surface is great for most running strides.

The 15.6” touch screen is a great size for viewing all of the F85’s features that come included. From plenty of onboard workouts, fitness tests, and app streaming from Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max, the Sole F85 incorporates a lot of entertainment and workout options. You can even screen mirror your phone if the preloaded 12 apps aren’t enough to satisfy.

All of this is packed into a treadmill that’s durable, solid, and easy to use. Plus, the motor moves up to 12 mph and the deck inclines to 15 levels and declines 6 levels so in addition to never getting bored, you’ll get in killer workouts!

Read our full review of the Sole F85 Treadmill here.

2. Best Folding Treadmill For Home: Nordictrack 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 and is really well-powered and functional. For buyers who want a folding treadmill that has a great track record for both design and performance, the Nordictrack 1750 is it. That’s why we’ve awarded it as the best folding treadmill for homes.

The NordicTrack 1750 features iFit training on a super adjustable 14” touch screen. In addition to tilting up and down depending on your height, the screen pivots to either side so you can see the screen off the treadmill. This is great when you’re taking an iFit class off the treadmill. With a subscription to iFit, you’ll get access to thousands of workouts led by knowledgeable instructors who are there to provide guidance and motivation. Classes are filmed indoors and outdoors, so you have an ample amount of content to choose from. The outdoor classes are our favorite because they’re filmed all over the world.

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.

The 3.5 CHP motor is quiet and capable of handling a lot of use. Plus, the folding mechanism makes the deck easier to lift and lower. 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.

3. Best Folding Treadmill For Walking: Horizon T101 Treadmill

We love the Horizon T101 Treadmill because it is affordable, well-made, and great for walking. It is the best folding treadmill for walking, in our opinion. Between the 20” wide by 55” long deck that features nice cushioning for an entry-level model and a 2.5 CHP motor, the T101 is an all-around impressive little treadmill.

If you have a long-running stride, you might not be able to jog and run on the deck, but this size is great for walking. You also get a 10% incline and 10 mph max speed, so you have the option to run, as well as incline to work your posterior muscles.

Even though the Horizon T101 is still a substantial treadmill at 180 lbs and capable of handling up to 300 lbs of user weight, it is easy to move and fold up. The deck incorporates a hydraulic system so you get assistance when folding and unfolding the deck. I can even lift the deck to fold with just one hand.

The T101 does have a simple console that has less amount of tech than other treadmills, but it tracks everything you need such as calories, distance, heart rate, incline, speed, and time. There are also workout programs to follow along with on the console. For a well-priced walking treadmill that’s comfortable, quiet, and functional to use, check out the Horizon T101 Treadmill.

Read our full review of the Horizon T101 treadmill here.

5.Best Folding Treadmill Runner-Up: 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 1750, the uprights and console fold down against the deck. The Stride is 69″ L × 31″ W × 49″ H when it’s open. When folded it collapses down to just 10″ high. The Stride still features a 55″ L × 20″ W walking surface with a 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 12 mph, users with longer stride lengths may find the Stride slightly compact for a full running gait. The motor is only 1.75 HP 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 with the ability to store under your bed or couch.

The 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 Echelon Stride is compatible to use with Echelon’s subscription trainer-led content, too.

The Stride only weighs 156 lbs, 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. This treadmill will completely hide away when you’re not using it. With its unique folding mechanism, the Echelon Stride earns the best folding treadmill runner-up.

Read our full review of the Echelon Stride treadmill here.

5. Best Folding Treadmill With Large Screen: 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 3.6 HP motor is sufficient for most types of training. This is a high-tech treadmill with nice, a 12 mph max speed, a -3% decline, and a 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. We love the large touch screen for streaming iFit’s indoor and outdoor classes filmed all around the world. For that reason, we’ve named the ProForm Pro 9000 as the best folding treadmill with a large screen.

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

6. Best Folding Treadmill For Running: NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill

The best folding treadmill for running on this list is the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill. This folding treadmill has a 22” touchscreen and a clean, clutter-free console. The Nordictrack 2450 has an 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 treadmill for running because of its powerful 3.6 HP motor, soft deck cushioning, 12% incline and -3% decline, and 12 mph max speed. Homes with multiple users or those who need more intense training will appreciate this motor since it handles a good amount of use and adjusts evenly and quickly. It also supports up to 300 lbs of user weight. The 2450 is also great for most homes because the deck is compact, yet spacious enough to run on. It is 20” wide to take up a little less room in your home, but still, 60” long to accommodate most running strides.

The 22” touch screen on the 2450 offers a subscription to iFit as well as workouts without a subscription. 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 nice functionality, cushioning, and subscription content, the 2450 is the perfect choice.

Read our full review of the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 here.

7. Best High-Incline Folding Treadmill: Bowflex Treadmill 22

If you’re looking for a high-inclining treadmill, you’re in luck with the Bowflex Treadmill 22. It has an impressive 20% incline and a -5% decline to give you plenty of workout options. That is why we’ve given the award of the best high-incline folding treadmill on this list.

The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a large treadmill, but it folds up to save a lot of space when you’re not using it. To fold the deck up almost 90 degrees, the deck needs to be fully declined. Due to its size and the fact that it weighs 336 lbs, a designated space for the Treadmill 22 is a good idea. The folding feature really helps to save room though. This is also the highest incline that we’ve seen on a folding treadmill.

This treadmill has an impressive design, a 400 lb weight limit, and a 4.0 HP motor. It’s capable of handling a lot of use and it’s great if you have multiple people at home who want to use it. The large 22” touch screen is where you track your workout metrics. If you subscribe to JRNY, you can also access trainer-led content, customizable workouts, outdoor filmed videos, and streaming from Netflix and Hulu.

So, if you’re looking for a powerful treadmill to run and hike on, and then fold up when you’re done. The Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a great choice.

Read our full review of the Bowflex Treadmill 22 here.

8. Best Budget Folding Treadmill: 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. Most Compact Folding Treadmill: WalkingPad X21 Double-Fold Treadmill

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. That is why we’ve awarded it as the most compact folding treadmill on this list.

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.

Read our full review of the WalkingPad X21 Treadmill here.

10. Best Folding Treadmill Under $1500: Sole F63 Treadmill

Another good budget-friendly treadmill is the Sole F63. This treadmill is under $1500 and it features a lift assist deck with a kick-release mechanism. Much like many of the other best folding treadmills on this list, the F63 folds and unfolds the same way. The assistance in the deck kicks in when you lift the back end so you don’t have to lift the entire weight and to unlock, you just need to press your foot against the bar at the bottom of the deck near the floor. Once unlocked, the deck slowly lowers to the floor on its own.

The F63 is great for most people while saving some extra space in your home because of the 20” wide and 60” long deck. Users of all strides and abilities will have enough length in the deck, too. The deck features firm cushioning that’s comparable to running outside. The 3.0 HP motor is quiet and capable of handling moderate walking, jogging, and running. When using the Sole F63, you have a 12 mph max speed range and 15 levels of incline to work with. This treadmill is also great for people up to 325 lbs.

The Sole F63 Treadmill features a simple console with onboard workout programs and Bluetooth speakers to play your own content. All you need to do is pair your device. You can also place your device on the rack to stream your own content. So, if you’re looking to save on a folding treadmill, the F63 will give you a lot of options.

Read our full review of the Sole F63 Treadmill, here.

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.