While I don’t associate Horizon treadmills with sleek and futuristic innovation, there’s something about them that reflects extensive experience in manufacturing quality fitness equipment. Horizon’s parent company, Johnson Health Tech, knows how to make a good, affordable treadmill. From the moment I unboxed the T101, I caught little details that made all the difference.
The T101 isn’t here to dazzle you. Even with this newest, tech-enhanced upgrade, it’s still fairly simplistic. However, that’s what keeps it user-friendly and affordable—two of its biggest strengths.
Stepping onto the deck of the T101, I remembered, once again, why I like Horizon so much. The value is there, and for the price, it’s a brand that always makes sense. Scroll down to discover what limitations the T101 has, but also why it continues to rank so highly for me.
Horizon T101 Treadmill Review: Bottom Line
Horizon T101 vs Similar Treadmills
Considering other treadmills? See how the Horizon fares when compared to the competition. We’ve selected some of the T101’s top competitors for your review.
 Horizon T101 |  Sole F63 |  NordicTrack T Series 10 |  Horizon 7.0 AT |  ProForm Carbon TLX | |
| Price (MSRP) | $2,299 | $2,299 | $2,499 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star Rating | |||||
| Bottom Line | The Horizon T101’s connective console pairs with apps like JRNY, Peloton, Zwift, and more. | An entry-level treadmill with a high-quality build, impressive training options, and an easy-to-use design, all for an affordable price. | The NordicTrack T Series 10 delivers the premium iFIT training experience with trainer-led classes, streaming apps, and personalized fitness at a more affordable price. | A compact, budget-friendly running treadmill with a foldable deck, simple design, and connectivity options. | This budget treadmill is great for running and allows you to use it with or without iFIT on your device. |
| Awards Earned | |||||
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
| Product | Horizon T101 | Sole F63 | NordicTrack T Series 10 | Horizon 7.0 AT | ProForm Carbon TLX |
| Workout Experience | 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Specs / Features | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Dimensions / Storability | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| On-Board Workouts & Apps | 7 | 6 | 9 | 7 | 6 |
| Build Quality | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Overall Score | 70 | 64 | 71 | 68 | 68 |
| # of Onboard Workouts | 6 | 6 | 11 | 8 | 1 |
| Paid Programming - Cost | N/A | Free | $39/month | N/A | iFIT – $39/month |
| Netflix / 3rd Party Apps | N/A | N/A | Netflix, Prime Video, Spotify | N/A | N/A |
| Display | 4 LED Windows | 6.5″ backlit LCD | 10” touchscreen | 7.25″ LCD screen, 4 LED windows | 7″ high-contrast digital screen |
| Dimensions (In Use) | 70.5" x 33.5" x 59" | 77″L x 35″W x 67″H | 75.1” L x 34.3” W x 58.4” H | 76″ L x 35″ W x 67″ H | 74.3″ L x 35.1″ W x 59.1″ |
| Pedal Type | |||||
| # of Adjustment Points | |||||
| Bike Weight | |||||
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs | 325 lbs | 325 lbs | 325 lbs | 300 lbs |
| Flywheel Weight | |||||
| Max Resistance | |||||
| Resistance Type | |||||
| Warranty | Lifetime frame and motor, 1-year parts and 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 tablet, and labor | lifetime frame, lifetime motor, 3-year parts, 1-year labor | 10-year frame, 1-year parts, 1-year labor |
| Additional Features | Bluetooth speakers, FTMS compatible, two tablet racks | Bluetooth speakers, storage, USB-A charging | SelectFlex adjustable cushioning, ActivePulse, Google Maps | Bluetooth, Quick Dial controls, Gymkit Technology | AutoAdjust, storage, Bluetooth |
Dimensions/Storability
Compared to most fitness treadmills, the Horizon T101 is relatively small. It measures only 70.5” long, 34” wide, and 59” tall. When folded, it’s only 46” long and 61” tall. Horizon recommends allotting an extra two feet of space on either side of the treadmill, one foot in front of the treadmill, and 6.5 feet behind the treadmill for safety.
The Horizon T101 is rather small, but allowing extra space around a treadmill is best for safety.
For the ceiling height, you will need a ceiling 1.5’ taller than the tallest treadmill user in your home. At the 10% incline, the treadmill deck is 13” tall. I recommend a few additional inches for comfort and safety, should there be any vertical movement when you are walking or running. For example, a 6’ runner would need a 7.5’ ceiling.
The T101 weighs about 180 lbs. When you need to move it, just fold it up and pull down on the deck to tilt the treadmill onto its transport wheels. The deck wobbles a bit when you roll the treadmill around, making it a little harder to transport.
To release the treadmill from its folded position, use your foot to press the kick release. The deck will then lower softly to the floor. When unfolding the treadmill, I noticed that the deck wobbles from the force of the deck dropping. I wish the T101 were a little sturdier to prevent this.
While the T101 could be sturdier during unfolding and transport, I can easily move it around.
Onboard Workouts & Apps
In a market overrun by touchscreens and subscription services, the Horizon T101 is a breath of fresh air. Not because it eschews subscription services entirely, but because it refuses to make them mandatory for the treadmill experience.
The T101 has six onboard training programs, three of which have ten levels you can progress through. As they are onboard programs, they are free to use. I noticed an error in the user manual, so I want to let you know that you should press “program” to change which program you have selected and the speed arrows to change the level and time limit.
FTMS Apps
In addition to the included programs, the T101 is compatible with FTMS, which is a protocol that makes fitness apps and exercise equipment compatible. Some popular FTMS apps you can use are JRNY, Peloton, Zwift, and Kinomap.
Because Horizon’s parent company, Johnson Health Tech, acquired Bowflex, they now promote using JRNY, which is native to Bowflex machines. JRNY includes structured workouts and trainer-led classes that start and stop the T101. However, they do not control the speed or incline. You get full control of your settings to customize the workout experience to your fitness level more effectively.
You’ll see stickers on the T101 advertising JRNY, but a subscription to JRNY is not required to use the treadmill.
Apps, like Kinomap, can control the incline settings on the treadmill. I haven’t found an app that can control the speed yet, but if you know of an app with that feature, it should work with the T101.
Console
The Horizon T101 does not have a touchscreen display, so you will have to use your phone or tablet to view the apps I mentioned above. It uses LED windows to display your metrics. There are four of these, and they show incline, time, calories, distance, heart rate, and speed. There is a button to toggle the treadmill display to see all of the metrics.
Training in a dark room? No problem! The bright blue LED windows are easy to see.
Plenty of buttons are available on the T101. They are not raised buttons, so they are not ideal for users with visual impairments. The buttons control the incline, speed, fan, and Bluetooth connectivity.
There are quick-adjust buttons for most of the speed and incline levels.
I prefer to use the speed and incline dials, which are on the ends of the stability handles. There are also EKG pulse grips here, so if you are tracking your heart rate with them, you can easily make adjustments to the performance settings.
The dials are more enclosed than previous T101 models to prevent you from accidentally hitting them.
You can also pair your device with the T101’s Bluetooth speakers to listen to audio louder. The speakers’ strength is nice and can be controlled from your phone. The T101 does not have separate volume controls on the console.
One thing you should know about the Bluetooth feature is that you can pair a heart rate monitor, but only when the T101 is not connected to a third-party app. The T101 has two settings for its Bluetooth: app or heart rate. Both cannot be active at the same time, but the speaker Bluetooth is separate, allowing you to use them at any time.
To store your phone or tablet (or both), there are two tablet racks. I feel secure setting my device in either. However, the top tablet rack makes it a little hard to see JRNY’s metrics on your phone since the ledge covers up the screen slightly.
For additional storage, you get two cup holders.
Finally, the T101 has a fan. It’s powerful and angled well. It has multiple speeds and is effective at cooling you off while you are training.
Build Quality
I test treadmills at many price points, and I really think the Horizon T101 is a standout, in terms of quality, at its price point. It’s a huge improvement over treadmills priced just $100 less. There are few treadmills as good as the T101 within its price range. At the time of writing this review, the T101 is just $599.
Frame
One of the top questions I have when reviewing a small and affordable treadmill like the T101 is whether it is sturdy. Fortunately, the T101 has a steel frame that I feel confident walking on. Even when it’s inclining, it feels stable.
I noticed that some online renderings of the T101 show it with a crossbar, but it does not have one.
The treadmill handles are really nice. They are padded for a soft and premium feel. The steel uprights are held in place on each side by three bolts, so if you need to use the handles to support yourself, you can.
I like the texture of the T101’s handles because it feels like a feature you would find on a more expensive model.
As for the footrails, they are spacious enough to stand on as needed. They are plastic and textured to help you keep your footing.
Motor
Though Horizon has removed the horsepower rating of the T101’s motor from its website, I took the motor hood off our model to investigate. It is a 2.5-horsepower motor, which is great for walking. Generally, we recommend a 3.0-horsepower motor for running, so I wouldn’t recommend the T101 as a daily running treadmill.
However, the maximum speed is 10 miles per hour. You can pick up the pace if you want, but I recommend upgrading to the Horizon 7.0 AT if you want to run regularly.
While a key feature of Horizon treadmills has long been a responsive motor, I did not find that to be the case on the T101. It took 32 seconds to accelerate from 0.5 mph to 10 mph. While this isn’t abnormally slow for a treadmill, it’s a little out of character for Horizon. Still, a slow acceleration has the advantage of feeling stable and smooth.
The Horizon 7.0 AT retains the quick-response motor we expect from the brand, but the new T101 opts for a more gentle acceleration that feels smoother.
On the other hand, the incline adjustment is fast. It takes 16 seconds to go from 0% to 10% incline. You can do incline intervals without issue.
I measured the incline and found it to be very accurate overall. It is stated to be a 0 to 10% incline range, and I got 0 to 9.6%, which is great!
As for the motor’s sound, I measured the noise output to be between 57 decibels (3 mph) and 70 dB (10 mph). The incline is quiet and does not add to the overall noise, I found. These measurements were taken without anyone walking or running on the deck, which is our standard protocol.
Deck
The T101’s smaller belt is best for walking.
While the T101’s running area is stated to be 20” wide by 55” long, I measured the belt at about 19.5” wide, so slightly narrower, but not by much. Still, the most important measurement is the length, which may be insufficient for some runners to hit the top speed (10 mph) comfortably.
Since the T101 has a low step-up height of only 7 ⅛”, you can step onto the deck more easily than bulkier treadmills.
I measured the deck’s thickness. The board is ¾”, which is pretty typical of most home treadmills. Commercial-grade machines are not much thicker at just 1”.
The cushioning is moderately soft. It’s not as soft as Horizon’s running treadmills, as the T101 has less robust shock absorbers and only two types of shocks (as far as I can tell). Overall, I like the feel of walking and jogging on this treadmill.
Warranty
The T101 has a fantastic warranty. The motor and frame are covered by a true lifetime warranty. Sometimes, “lifetime” just means the lifetime of the machine, as determined by the manufacturer. Horizon, however, states that “lifetime” applies to the lifetime or the original owner of the treadmill, which is great! Please note that this warranty is non-transferable.
As for parts and labor, they are covered for one year. While less impressive, this warranty length is standard.
Should You Buy the Horizon T101 Treadmill
The Horizon T101 is a smart buy for anyone looking for a trustworthy walking treadmill at a good price. It’s got a great build and an outstanding warranty. The T101 is one of the most affordable treadmills that you can put some real miles on without worrying about burning the motor out too soon.
You don’t need a subscription to work out on the T101. It has plenty of onboard programs. However, it has Bluetooth connectivity that connects to apps like JRNY, Zwift, and Peloton for more advanced workouts, if you want a premium training platform.
The T101 is such a good treadmill that it’s hard to find drawbacks, but I don’t recommend it for serious runners. It performs very solidly as a walking treadmill, and you can incline it from 0 to 10%.
Horizon T101 Treadmill Q&A / FAQ
Is the Horizon T101 a good treadmill?
The Horizon T101 is a high-quality treadmill at an affordable price. It is compact and folds easily for storage. The Horizon T101 is a great pick for treadmill shoppers on a budget who want a sturdy walking treadmill with a great warranty.
Can I run on the Horizon T101?
The Horizon T101 has a maximum speed of 10 miles per hour, allowing you to run. However, the T101 is best for walking due to its motor strength (2.5 miles per hour) and deck size (20” x 55”).
Is Horizon better than NordicTrack?
Horizon treadmills are more affordable than NordicTrack treadmills and do not require a subscription. They have better warranties, as they have a true lifetime warranty on the frame and motor. However, NordicTrack treadmills have more premium features and training features.
Is your review a paid review?
No, our Horizon T101 is not a paid review. We received the T101 for free in exchange for a fair review, but we were not paid for the review. Instead, we earn a commission if you choose to purchase the T101 based on our review. It will not increase the cost of the treadmill for you. Since we have this relationship with most home treadmill brands, we are not incentivized to push you toward one treadmill over the other.
I live in the 13760 postal in central New York. Where can I find this machine to try?
How much would it cost? Would the company deliver and install it”
Patricia,
In your area, Dicks Sporting Goods sells the Horizon treadmills. Due to COVID, Dicks is currently closed in most locations (I don’t know about yours), but stores are slowly opening and you may find a Horizon T101 at your local Dicks if they reopen in the next few weeks. If you don’t want to wait, you can order one directly from Horizon. They will deliver, but not assemble the treadmill. We’ve assembled many treadmills here at Guru and they aren’t as complicated as it would seem. Either way, the Horizon T101 is a good option for at-home walking. Good luck!
Hello, I really enjoyed reading your research on each treadmill! It really helps customers get a broad view of the top 10 treadmills! I would like to know where can I find info about Horizon T303? I understand this is the most current model? Do you have any reviews on this particular model? Thank you for this platform!
Thanks Linda! The Horizon T303 is currently out of stock, but Horizon is working to get it in again soon. We don’t have a review of that model, but we have been impressed with Horizon’s treadmills and the T303 is the highest model in their Go-Series lineup. We may be able to review that one in the future, but currently we don’t have that model in our studio. Good luck in your search!
Would you recommend this treadmill for moderate intervals? I’m looking for a treadmill that I can use 3-5 times per week for 30-45 min at a time. I usually do 5 min intervals where I walk for 4 min (4 mph) and run for 1 min (max 6.5-7.5 mph). I am short (5’2″ and 135 lbs). I keep seeing that the T101 is a walking treadmill and not sure if it’s worth it to upgrade based on what I need.
Hanna,
If you’re only running for one minute with four minutes of walking, you’ll be fine. Especially since you are a lighter person. We don’t recommend the T101 for long, fast distances, but for short sprints and/or slower speeds, it should handle it just fine.
I am 180lbs, 5’9″ and run 3 times a week for 30 mins. I run at a moderate pace there 10 MPH will be more than enough speed. Would the T101 be too entry level or should I consider the next model up T202? I see the T202 is slightly bigger but still compact but does have a larger jogging area. It is 2 inches wider than the T101. You expert opinion will really help me decide. The T202 is about $400 more. Thank you.
Phil,
That’s a good question. For running we usually recommend a motor that is close to 3.0 horsepower if possible. The T202 will probably be a better choice based on your weight and projected usage. The larger deck offers more room as well. A slightly stronger motor helps maintain higher speeds for longer distances without overheating or premature failure. If you can manage the price jump, we would recommend the T202. Right now the T202 is only $150 more (USD), which is a really good deal. However, Lifetime backs up all their treadmills with a full lifetime warranty on the motor and frame, so you could opt for the T101 with the warranty as backup should you have any issues. We are consistently impressed with Horizon’s treadmills so it’s hard to go wrong with either one. Good luck!
Wow, You really seem to know what you are talking about. I am looking at the Horizon T101 (5’11’, 170 lbs)), We live in Nanuet, NY in Rockland County. . Dicks Is less expensive than from the manufacturer actually . Dicks will curbside it only due to COVID. . The big 2 issues I have are getting it up 13 stairs and then assembly. Do you know if there is a local place that might do this for a fee of course? Thank you.
Steven,
Due to Covid restrictions, most delivery companies won’t carry your treadmill into your house beyond the front entryway. We recommend assembling the treadmill in the room you plan to use it. It’s much easier to carry a large box upstairs than a huge treadmill. We’ve put together all our treadmills here and while it does take a bit of time, you can easily do it with two people. None of the parts is heavy or hard to lift. You just need two people so one person can hold the part while the other screws it in. All assembly tools are included.
Getting the box up the stairs could be accomplished by four large friends if you have anyone on hand who would walk it up for you. We don’t recommend using delivery/assembly services because we find there are more mistakes when machines are assembled by a third party. Owners tend to be more careful.
Hi, Your reviews and videos are so helpful! I log about 10-15 miles per week usually done in run/walk intervals with paces around 11-13 mins per mile. My long runs are about 5 miles but will be training for a half over the summer and may need to do longer runs on a treadmill. Again the pace is pretty slow. Is the Horizon 101 too entry-level? Was also looking at the 7.0 AT and the NordicTrack 1750, though the latter may be more than I need. I am in a condo with limited space so trying to weigh my options. Thanks!
Kate,
I think you’ll be fine with the T101. It should support your pace easily. It’s also compact and would work well in an apartment. Good luck!
Hi, love reading your reviews and watching your youtube videos. I’ve been researching for a week and I think this machine would be perfect for me 5’5 120 lbs. However, my husband is 6’1 & 190lbs. Neither one of us runs, maybe a light jog. We both prefer to walk and use the incline. Would this machine work for him? Thank you!
Devenie,
Thanks! I’m glad you enjoy our channel. The T101 is a hearty little treadmill. It will support you fine and your husband should be good too. My only concern is at 6’1″ he may find the deck a bit small. The T202 is only $100 more and it is 60″ long rather than 55″. For our taller users over 6 feet we usually recommend a minimum length of 60″. Either one should have enough power. Good luck!
Hi there! Thanks for your great review. I am in an apartment so I’m looking for a quiet treadmill. I am a bit over the 250 lbs you recommend for the T101. Would the T202 be as quiet, or a quiet option? I mostly want it for walking.
Vicky,
I wouldn’t recommend the T101 for you. The T202 or even T303 would be better. It is quiet and great for walking.
Hello!
Thank you for your thorough reviews. They are very helpful.
I’m 5’9” and 125lbs. I run at a 8MPH pace and I’ll be running between 3-7miles for most workouts. Is the T101 a good fit for me? Thank you!
At 125lbs you’ll be fine. You could also look at the T202. It has a slightly larger motor that may work better for your intended pace. But it’s often out of stock. Good luck!
I recently purchased the T101 and discovered that it is incompatible with GFCI outlets. In my garage, where I store the treadmill, I have a GFCI port. What should I do to keep my power from going out when the treadmill reaches speed 5?
Correna,
You could look into getting an adapter that modifies the power being conducted through the outlet. This may provide enough power to the machine without overloading the circuit.
Hi Kristen! Tqsm for your awesome review on the T101. I’m considering between getting the TR5 or T101. The TR5 sounds good because of its compact size, but then again am concerned about the available walking surface & other features. I’m 158 cm tall & weigh 47 kg. It is for light use (am 60+). I live in an apartment, so would like a quiet treadmill. Would really appreciate any advice/tips to help me decide between the 2 models. Thanks again.
Faizah,
We don’t have the TR5 in our studio, so we don’t have a review for that one. The T101 is the most basic Horizon treadmill we have. If you’re looking for something really compact, you could check out the Echelon Stride or ProForm City L6. Both are designed for use in small spaces.
The length of the Horizon T101 would work so well in my space. I’m 5’3″ and weigh 120 lbs. I run 5 miles 3x times a week at 6mph. Would this treadmill work for me? I’ll be happy camper if the answer is yes.
Susan,
For your size, the T101 should work great. The console can’t be modified and the calorie meter is based on a 150lb person, so the calories will be inaccurate. I recommend using a Garmin or Apple watch for accurate calorie count.
I am 5’10” 275 I will be using it mainly for walking. I am also thinking about the sole f63. What would you recommend.
Mike,
The Sole F63 is bigger and heartier than the Horizon T101. For your size, you’ll find the Sole F63 offers more space and is more powerful than the T101.
Thanks for video. Best one I’ve found but still unable to find the answer to my question.
How do I change levels once I determine which program I want.
P2 level 2 for example.
I press the up arrow for P2 then the 30 minutes flash
I press start and Then it counts down from 3, 2 then 1 and starts me at level one (speed 0.5).
I don’t want level one. I want level 3.
The manual tells me what the levels And corresponding speeds are but not how to get there.
Any help is appreciated.
I
Will it hold up if I run daily for 20 minutes at 5mph?
170lb
I’m quite interested in buying this treadmill. In her review, Sydney mentioned the “updated” model, but I’m not finding information on how it is updated. I have the option to buy an older model and the 2023 model, but not sure if the added cost is worth it.