Bowflex needed an affordable treadmill to balance out its lineup. The BXT8J goes without some of the high-tech features found on Bowflex’s other treadmills. One thing I’ve learned after testing dozens of treadmills is that less can be better. A simple treadmill has its place.
Extra features add more to a treadmill that can break. Since the BXT8J does not have a touchscreen, you won’t feel as compelled to subscribe to Bowflex’s fitness classes (JRNY) if you don’t want to. Yet, the BXT8J connects with JRNY, expanding this treadmill’s content offerings beyond the onboard training programs.
Treadmills, like the BXT8J, are perfect for following a training program. As a runner, the Bowflex BXT8J has just what I need to complete the workouts I’ve planned for the week. However, I’ve also really enjoyed Bowflex’s more powerful treadmill, the Treadmill 22, and other higher-end machines. You’ll have to read this review to decide if you should upgrade or stick to the basics.
Bowflex BXT8J Treadmill Review: Bottom Line
Bowflex BXT8J vs. Similar Treadmills
We know an important part of treadmill shopping is comparing multiple viable options. See how the Bowflex BXT8J compares to treadmills we’ve tried and tested below.
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Price (MSRP) | $2,299 | $2,499 | |||
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Star Rating | |||||
Bottom Line | The Bowflex BXT8J is a folding, entry-level treadmill with a simple and stable design, a 12 mph max speed, and a 15% incline. | An entry-level treadmill with a high-quality build, impressive training options, and an easy-to-use design, all for an affordable price. | A compact, budget-friendly running treadmill with a foldable deck, simple design, and connectivity options. | A high-tech entry-level treadmill with iFit streaming and a well-cushioned, compact deck that folds up. | A well-built inclining and declining treadmill that folds up and offers streaming from JRNY on the 10" screen. |
Awards Earned | |||||
Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Product | Bowflex BXT8J | Sole F63 | Horizon 7.0 AT | NordicTrack EXP 7i | Bowflex Treadmill 10 |
Workout Experience | 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 |
Specs / Features | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 7 |
Dimensions / Storability | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 6 |
On-Board Workouts & Apps | 6 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 7 |
Build Quality | 7 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 7 |
Overall Score | 64 | 64 | 68 | 70 | 70 |
# of Onboard Workouts | 26 | 6 | 8 | 2 | 10 |
Paid Programming - Cost | JRNY – $19.99/month | Free | N/A | iFIT – $39/month | JRNY - $19.99/month |
Netflix / 3rd Party Apps | N/A | N/A | N/A | Netflix, Prime - (Beta Testing) | Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, Disney+, Max |
Display | Backlit 7” LCD | 6.5″ backlit LCD | 7.25″ LCD screen, 4 LED windows | 7″ HD touchscreen | 10" HD touchscreen |
Dimensions (In Use) | 78″ L x 37.6″ W x 62.8″ H | 77″L x 35″W x 67″H | 76″ L x 35″ W x 67″ H | 70.8” L x 34.9” W x 59.7” H | 85" L x 39.6" W x 65.3" H |
Deck Size | 20” x 60” | 20″ x 60″ | 20″ x 60″ | 20″ x 55″ | 22" x 60" |
Folding? | |||||
Treadmill Weight | 253.5 lbs | 224 lbs | 277 lbs | 228 lbs (in box) | 323 lbs |
Weight Capacity | 300 lbs | 325 lbs | 325 lbs | 300 lbs | 400 lbs |
Motor Size | 2.0 CHP | 3.0 CHP | 3.0 HP | 2.6 CHP | 4.0 HP |
Max Speed | 12 mph | 12 mph | 12 mph | 10 MPH | 0 to 12 mph |
Incline/Decline | 0 to 15% | 15 incline levels | 0% to 15% | 0 to 12% | -5% to 15% |
Warranty | 10-year frame, 3-year mechanical parts, 3-year electronics, 1-year labor | lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 2-year deck, 2-year parts, 2-year wear items, 1-year labor, 90-day cosmetic items | lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 3-year parts, 1-year labor | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor | 15-year frame, 5-year mechanical parts, 1-year electronics & touchscreen, 2-year labor |
Additional Features | Bluetooth, media shelf, fitness score | Bluetooth speakers, storage, USB-A charging | Bluetooth, Quick Dial controls, Gymkit Technology | AutoAdjust, soft cushioning, SpaceSaver Design | SoftDrop folding system, ComfortTech deck cushioning, JRNY radio |
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