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Last Updated: June 5, 2023
The Horizon T101 is an impressive little treadmill that we’ve enjoyed using for years. It’s been updated recently. In this review of the Horizon T101 Treadmill, I’ll go over what the latest 2023 model has to offer, as well as how it performed for us. For a quick overview though, you can expect a quiet, hearty, and compact treadmill that we recommend for walking and light jogging. At well under $1000 this is a terrific budget pick and our favorite walking treadmill on the market. With a foldable deck and a simple-to-use console, the T101 has a lot of features that appeal to home users.
Even though I said “little”, the Horizon T101 is actually pretty substantial in size compared to other models in its price range.
Award: Best Treadmill For Walking
The Horizon T101 Treadmill is our pick as the best treadmill for walking. It has a 20” x 55” long deck so most users will be able to walk and some can even jog. For a steal of a price tag, the T101 actually performs comparably to larger premium models priced hundreds of dollars more. The cushioning is impressively comfortable and shock-absorbing, the deck folds up and the entire treadmill is lightweight enough to roll around. Plus, the motor performs well and has handled our team walking and running on it regularly with ease. So, if you’re looking for an affordable treadmill for walking, we can’t recommend this best treadmill enough.
Why You Should Trust Our Review Of The Horizon T101 Treadmill
We don’t take on the task of testing and reviewing treadmills lightly here at Treadmill Review Guru. When we get in a new treadmill, even if it’s just a new version of a previous model that’s had a few upgrades, we put it to the test and assess comfort, reliability, performance, noise, and functionality. If it’s gone through an update, we compare it to the prior model, as well as similar models. We rely heavily on our extensive experience reviewing treadmills, and our workout industry backgrounds of being personal trainers, instructors, and lovers of all things health and fitness to compile thorough reviews to help you make informed buying decisions.
We compared the Horizon T101 to, the Horizon 7.0 AT, Sole F63, NordicTrack EXP 7i, and ProForm Carbon T7. You’ll also see some other models mentioned throughout this review of the T101.
Our Horizon T101 Treadmill Video Review
- This is an excellent bang for your buck in terms of quality, construction, and training capabilities.
- The 2.5 CHP motor is quiet and capable of handling light to moderate use.
- The deck is an ideal size for walkers and shorter-stride runners, plus it’s equipped with forgiving cushioning.
- The deck folds up and the treadmill is lightweight enough to move around easily.
- The heavy 300 lb weight limit means this treadmill can work well for most and that it has a hearty construction.
- This treadmill is simple to use, compact and covered with a lifetime frame and motor warranty.
- There is less tech than most models include.
- Wireless heart rate tracking isn’t possible on this model, but it does have pulse grips.
- The speakers are Bluetooth-enabled to play your own music, but their noise output is weak.
- 3 Blue LED Windows
- Workout Programs: calorie, distance, fat burn, hill climb, intervals, and manual mode
- Metrics Displayed: calories, distance, heart rate, incline, speed, and time
- Bluetooth Speakers – Play music from your device through the speakers
- Fan
- Easy-Dial Controls
- Preset Speed and Incline Buttons
- Device Rack
- Audio In/Out Jack
- USB Charging Port
- Pulse Grips
- 2 Cupholders
- FeatherLight Folding
- Transportation Wheels
- Footprint: 71” L x 34” W x 57” H
- Folded Footprint: 46” L x 34” W x 61” H
- Treadmill Weight: 180 lbs
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Running Surface: 20” x 55”
- Motor: 2.5 CHP
- 3-Zone Variable Response Cushioning
- Speed: 0.5-10 mph
- Incline: 0-10%
- Roller Size: 46mm/42mm Tapered
- Step-Up Height: 8” (floor to top of side rail)
- Deck Thickness: 0.7” (18mm)
- Warranty: Lifetime for the frame and motor, 1 year for parts and labor
In-Depth Review Of Horizon T101 Treadmill
Pre-programmed workouts
The majority of motorized treadmills that get delivered to our studio nowadays come with a touch screen embedded into the console. Most often on the touch screen is subscription content that you must pay a monthly fee to access. We didn’t expect the Horizon T101 to have a touch screen or offer subscription training content, it doesn’t make sense for a treadmill priced below $1000. We also don’t really see touch screens on treadmills in this price range. The T101 has a simple console with included workout programs.
As far as technology is concerned though, the T101 has less than most models – including the ones that just have preprogrammed workouts.
However, for basic functions and included programs, the T101 does just fine. Included on the console are 6 different workout modes: manual, fat burn, intervals, distance, calories, and hill climb. In most of these modes, you can customize the time, speed, and incline. In several of them, you also have different levels to choose from with preset settings to follow along with. For preprogrammed workouts, these are all pretty standard.
The T101 also includes the basics for metrics tracked. These consist of calories, distance, heart rate, incline, speed, and time. Something to keep in mind though is that your heart rate is only tracked by the pulse grips on the front handles. The Horizon T101 doesn’t connect to a heart rate monitor for more accurate tracking. The pulse grips only work when you’re holding onto both.
Console
The Horizon T101 doesn’t include a touch screen or even an LCD screen. Instead, there are 3 LED windows to see your metrics. The far left window displays time and calories, the middle displays speed and incline settings, and the right window shows your distance and heart rate. As far as updates to the tech in the console from the previous version, there hasn’t been much.
The windows are brighter and the layout is a little bit different on the new model.
Navigating the console is pretty straightforward, but overall the console doesn’t have many buttons. The icons for the programs aren’t buttons. Instead, you must use the speed and incline arrowed buttons, “change display”, and “enter” buttons to select and change the settings of the preprogrammed workouts. This is all fine and fairly intuitive.
There are a good amount of buttons to adjust the speed and incline of the treadmill though. Beyond the arrowed speed and incline buttons and the start and stop buttons in the middle/lower portion of the console, there are quick-touch buttons on either side. These are numbered with the right side being for speed and the left for incline. When you press, for example, 6 on the right, the treadmill adjusts to 6 mph.
These are easy to reach and appreciated for quickly adjusting the treadmill.
On the front handles, blue roller adjustment dials have been added to this model from the previous. You can simply use your hand to roll the dial forward or back to increase and decrease the speed and incline. The right side is for the speed and the left is for the incline. These are fun to use and similar in function to the Peloton Tread. They don’t feel as smooth to roll as the Horizon 7.0 and 7.8, but they work well to get to specific increments like 4.7 mph, quickly.
I like the placement of the roller adjustment knobs.
The speakers are small but front-facing to project at you. We wish they were a little more powerful though. The speakers are Bluetooth enabled so you can pair them with your device to play your own music and whatever streaming content through the speakers. This is an appreciated feature, but for the sound, my iPhone speaker is louder. I would recommend using your own speaker for music. This is a small con though considering how well-priced the T101 is.
The fan is small but pretty effective. I’m about 5’1” and it hits my neck when I’m using the T101. It’s obviously not the most powerful fan, but for its size and that it’s built into the console, it works great.
Finally, for storage, there are 2 pockets for items like your water bottle and whatever else you need nearby.
My iPhone fits in them, but there’s a device rack that’s convenient when you’re streaming content from your phone or tablet. This way, you can take trainer-led content from platforms like iFit and Peloton while using the T101, if that’s your thing. You could also just put the treadmill in front of a TV. The console is certainly low enough to watch a TV screen.
Construction Quality/Durability
Normally we don’t get into prices too much in our reviews because prices often change. However, I want to get into it a little bit with the Horizon T101. This treadmill is a steal at well under $1000, especially considering its size, training capabilities, and overall construction. If you were to buy a treadmill at a similar price point of around $500-$700 from brands that only sell treadmills on Amazon, you’d most likely get a treadmill that’s a fraction of the size and quality of the T101.
Typical treadmills in this price range have similar stature and capabilities to the Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Strider, for instance. This treadmill has a similar price tag but overall is a much more compact and less powerful treadmill than the T101. It weighs 118 lbs, while the T101 weighs 180 lbs. And the Smart Strider has a 250 lb capacity versus the 300 lb limit the T101 is rated with.
Frame
The frame makes the T101 really sturdy to use.
The steel frame is typical for treadmills of this size. On a lot of cheaper models, we like to see steel crossbars mounted in between the uprights under the console to help add stability to the machine. The T101 does just fine without one! There’s minimal movement in the console even when running at high speeds. To be honest, I only noticed the movement because my giant 40 oz Stanley Cup started to shake a little bit when I got up to 9 mph. My water bottle and hydration needs are a bit extra compared to most though, so it’s understandable this happened. Regular water bottles should work better.
The frame makes the Horizon T101 feel incredibly stable and solid. The new model actually feels more solid than the previous one, which was already pretty hearty. It’s gained about 15 lbs of pure muscle (or steel), so we’re waiting for its diet and workout regime to drop any day now.
The handles are sufficient and easy to grab when you need them. The front handles are separated by the console and multi-functional with pulse grips and roller-dial adjustments. The side handles have a nice foam coating that doesn’t feel slippery.
Motor
The motor is 2.5 CHP. For this size of the motor, we recommend primarily walking and light jogging. The T101 performs like it can handle both well. It isn’t appropriate for intense training. As far as noise, the drive motor is pretty quiet. The T101 isn’t quite as quiet as the Horizon 7.0 AT, but it’s quieter than the NordicTrack EXP 7i, especially the motor for the incline. The incline makes a small amount of noise on top of the drive motor when the deck is being adjusted. It reminds us of Sole Treadmills which have very quiet incline mechanisms.
For training options, the T101 goes up to 10 mph and has a 10% incline.
For a budget treadmill, this is a great deal of speed and incline. Comparable models that are priced slightly more, like the ProForm Carbon T7 and NordicTrack EXP 7i, have similar training capabilities.
What’s surprising about the Horizon T101 is that the motor is quick to get up to speed. It’s actually really comparable with how responsive the Horizon 7.8 AT is. Horizon Treadmills are some of the fastest adjusting that we’ve tested so we’re pleased to see they incorporate that efficiency even in their lowest-end model.
Deck
The deck is 20” x 55”. All users should have plenty of room for walking. Some with shorter running strides will be able to jog and even run. I have a fairly short running stride and am 5’1”, so I can run on the T101 at its highest speeds. Our team’s tallest reviewer, Matt, who is 6’5” can walk and jog at lower speeds on the deck.
He isn’t able to fully run, however, he doesn’t have a very long stride length when jogging.
This deck size is similar to the EXP 7i and Carbon T7 treadmills. For cushioning, it feels more similar to the ProForm Carbon T7 than the NordicTrack EXP 7i. The EXP 7i is slightly softer underfoot. It is, however, much more cushioned than the Sole F63, which is firm to run on. The Horizon T101 feels comfortable and the cushioning absorbs the impact of running and even walking. We are impressed with how cushioned the deck is for such an inexpensive machine. The deck’s profile is low, too. At a flat grade, it sits about 8” high from the ground to the top of the side rails.
This is usually some of the lowest step-up height we see on treadmills of this size.
Performance & Functionality
Overall, we are really pleased with the Horizon T101 Treadmill. Horizon continues to keep the integrity of the T101 as well as the affordable price point, through upgraded models. This version of the T101 is functional, comfortable, compact, and quiet. We like the new all-black design that has the T101 looking fresh and sleek, too!
The console isn’t my favorite, but it does the job of offering onboard workout programs and the choice of using your device. Obviously, if you’re looking for a treadmill with a touch screen, there are plenty of options, but they’ll cost you more than what the T101 is priced at.
The console is the only aspect that we found a couple of cons, and some of them aren’t even fully negative. Some people will prefer the basic amount of tech in the console. As far as the construction, we didn’t find anything else that we didn’t like or think could use a little improvement. The overall quality, construction, usability, and training capabilities of the T101 are comparable to higher-end machines. Plus, it’s worth noting again how solid this treadmill feels to walk and run on.
For home use, the Horizon T101 is a substantial treadmill, but it’s pretty compact and the deck folds up.
The folding mechanism uses a hydraulic system that assists when folding and unfolding the deck. You push the spring under the deck when it’s folded with your foot to unlock it and from there the deck will slowly lower to the floor. When lifting the deck up, you’ll feel the hydraulic assist kick in so you don’t feel the entire weight of the deck. This makes the T101 relatively easy for most people to fold and unfold.
It’s also pretty easy to move around.
You do have to tilt back the deck when it’s folded to engage the wheels, but once you do, the T101 can be wheeled around. It would be nice to have a handle below the back of the deck for lifting and transporting, but all of us are still able to move it without one.
Warranty
To complement and instill confidence in the construction, Horizon includes a lifetime frame and motor warranty which we really appreciate. A 1-year warranty for parts and labor is included to. Assembling the T101 is pretty straightforward and the manual takes you through the process step by step. We suggest having 2 people for set up to keep the process smooth.
Bottom Line Review: Horizon T101 Treadmill
For an entry-level treadmill, the Horizon T101 is a very impressive and hearty machine. Compared to other treadmills in its price range, the T101 is substantial, quiet, and comfortable to use. The quick adjusting motor and solid frame perform like higher-end models. We recommend this treadmill for primarily walking, however, users with shorter running strides should be able to jog and run on the 55” long deck. And when you’re finished, the deck folds up to save space and you can move the T101 around when needed. If you’re looking for a simple-to-use compact treadmill with a really forgiving price tag, we can’t recommend the Horizon T101 enough. It’s among the treadmills that we consider to be the best on the market for good reason.
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.