If you don’t like to sacrifice your running routine during the colder monthsa treadmill is a great alternative to have on hand. As someone who loves running outdoors, I appreciate having the option to run indoors on rainy or snowy days so I don’t have to sacrifice my running routine. However, you don’t have to be a runner to reap the benefits of a treadmill. If you like walkrucking (walking with a weighted bag on your back), hiking, jogging or interval training, you can get the most out of having a treadmill in your home. It also increases your chances of exercising regularly since you don’t need to leave your house to go to a gym.
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We tested six popular treadmills on the market to determine which ones are best suited to your needs and your home. We got our hands on models like Platoon, Nordic trail And ArcFlex to see if they are worth the investment and to determine who the best audience is for each treadmill. Below you’ll find our top picks, whether you like running, walking, or just need some form of cardio.
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What is the best treadmill overall?
Our top pick for the best overall treadmill is the NordicTrack X24. This treadmill has everything runners, walkers and hikers could want. With a 40% incline you can get a serious boost and even experience a minus 6% drop. This is an ideal treadmill for a long run if you can’t go out in bad weather.
The 24-inch screen is large enough to let you watch your favorite Netflix shows in full view while you workout, and since this is a commercial-sized treadmill, it’s sturdy enough to accommodate people of all sizes and shapes. If you’re an iFIT member, the SmartAdjust feature takes the guesswork out of your workout class and changes the pace and incline accordingly, so you don’t have to.
Best Treadmills for 2026
Benefits
- Versatile for walking, hiking and running
- Connects to third-party apps
- heart rate monitors and compatible Bluetooth headphones
Disadvantages
- Additional fee to access iFIT Pro membership ($40 per month)
- Requires a lot of space due to its size
- Maybe not in everyone’s budget at over $3,000
Why we love it: The NordicTrack X24 is one of NordicTrack’s newer treadmills, which stood out to me with its 40% incline capabilities. Usually, treadmills are incline, but this one was designed with the highest incline to allow you to enjoy a variety of workouts, including hiking. It also has a minus 6% drop if you want to change this variation.
NordicTrack is known for its SmartAdjust feature that automatically adjusts your incline and speed. This feature is useful during an iFIT workout because the speed and incline are automatically adjusted based on the instructor’s instructions. This treadmill is large and sturdy, and it can handle my workouts, which usually start with a walk, jog, or run and end with a sprint.
The rotating touchscreen measures 24 inches, which is large enough to enjoy an iFIT class (via NordicTrack’s workout app) or your favorite Netflix or Prime Video show, provided you have the iFIT Pro subscription ($40 per month). If you’re an iFIT member, you have access to iFIT’s AI Coach, which works like a personal assistant and plans your workouts.
Who is it best for: This treadmill is ideal for a runner or for those who enjoy hiking. The incline goes up to 40%, which is steep for a treadmill, but the wide range makes it easy to use, whether you’re training for a run with different inclines or enjoy walking but want a challenge. You can also connect to third-party streaming apps, such as Netflix and Prime Video, to keep you entertained while you workout. This treadmill is commercial sized, so it’s sturdy and reliable for easy walks or a more intense workout.
Who shouldn’t get it: This treadmill is big, and even though I had just enough space to test it at home, I would still recommend making sure you have enough space around it. This is also important if you plan to rotate the screen for floor workouts.
For a high-end treadmill, I also wasn’t a fan of the buttons that control the speed and incline, as they sit flush with the treadmill and sometimes required me to press them multiple times to adjust these features. This isn’t particularly helpful when you’re sweating in the middle of a workout and trying to adjust your speed.
I’ve tested third-party apps like Prime Video, but unless you’re wearing compatible Bluetooth headphones, it’s difficult to hear your show or movie, especially as you run at a faster pace and the noise level of the treadmill increases.
– Giselle Castro-Sloboda, wellness and fitness editor
Benefits
- The machine feels very sturdy and secure, even at high speeds.
- The pace and incline controls allow you to set very specific and precise values that other treadmills I’ve tried don’t allow.
- Sleek base and low profile.
- I like that it comes pre-built with no setup required.
- The treadmill feels great. It’s not too stiff and offers plenty of flexibility for comfortable walking or running.
Disadvantages
- You need an additional subscription to use any of the apps.
- I ran into an issue where the touchscreen would crash, trying to get me to end my workout, and the dialog to end the workout would continually appear and disappear – I think this is because sweat was getting on the screen, which is not ideal. But this only happened once.
- I ran into an issue where the treadmill needed to be updated, the progress bar would get stuck, and I couldn’t run on it when I wanted, which was frustrating. A power reset fixed it, but still far from ideal.
- Most of the built-in games don’t really motivate me, as an adult, to exercise.
Why we love it: It works great as a treadmill, and the screen and built-in apps add extra features that some runners and walkers will really love. The ability to use streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, Prime Video, Paramount Plus, HBO Max, YouTube, TikTok, Kindle and many more make this machine a great option for those who like to do two things at once. The built-in games are a fun quirk that sets it apart from other treadmills I’ve tested. The controls are simple and intuitive, the designated power button is useful, and I love the low-to-the-ground profile. It looks stylish and works well for runners of all levels.
Who is it best for: I could see someone who lives in a city or has nowhere to run outside loving this treadmill. The 22-inch screen and built-in apps make it much more engaging than the average treadmill, and it could help someone get in more runs than they otherwise would. If you’re a multitasker, this machine is a great option because you can keep up with your shows without another device. We also find that it works great for people who run for fun or for exercise. Having distractions like apps and games makes me want to go for a run. Sometimes I would just start a run and then figure out what entertainment to watch as I went along.
Who shouldn’t get it: The main group that should not buy this treadmill is those on a strict budget, since it costs $3,600 at full price. Plus, if you hate subscriptions, this one isn’t for you. An annual subscription costs $29 per month, while a monthly subscription costs $34 per month. While it’s not the most expensive treadmill subscription, paying a monthly or annual fee to fully unlock the device isn’t for everyone. Additionally, if you want to use streaming services like Netflix, you’ll need two monthly subscriptions just to watch shows while you run.
— CNET’s Reno Test Center
Benefits
- Wide variety of on-demand guided workouts for walking, hiking, and running
- Seamless integration with third-party wearables like Apple Watch
- High-quality touchscreen with real-time measurements and customizable settings
- Connected fitness experience in bodybuilding, Pilates, yoga, bootcamp, etc.
Disadvantages
- Takes up a lot of space, non-foldable design and difficult to move
- Requires $50 per month All-Access subscription to access courses and features
- The speed and incline buttons are not very intuitive
- Peloton IQ (AI) has limitations and little benefit for the Tread Plus
Why we love it: As a Peloton loyalist, being able to take walking, running, and hiking classes on the 23.8-inch screen with my favorite instructors at home was great. Brisk walking and interval training let you take advantage of the Plus’s steepest 15% incline (up to 12.5% on normal tread), which is ideal for strengthening your posterior chain (the muscles at the back of your body) if you have knee or joint problems.
The touchscreen layout, familiar to anyone who has used the Peloton Bike, offers clear measurements and data. I loved being able to set my pace goals in advance, allowing me to set “fast” speeds. es” and “recovery” for each workout. The variety of classes is a huge plus, and filters let you select a workout based on instructor, duration, class type, music, difficulty level, and pace goals. Bootcamp classes combine running and strength training for additional options.
The volume is excellent and the custom control music to voice ratio is an added bonus. Stability feels solid, and the 37-inch tread width is nice, especially for taller athletes (the Tread Plus has more running room than the standard Tread). The Plus’s large accessory tray is ideal for holding a phone, water bottle, and other items.
The Plus’s Peloton IQ motion tracker and hands-free voice controls could be beneficial for those who want a camera monitoring system for strength training, although the program may be a bit flawed. Keep in mind that Peloton instructors already do a great job correcting form, giving tips, and helping you with exercises, even when they can’t see you. With the swivel screen available on both machines, you can easily follow a workout without the camera watching you.
Who is it for: The Tread Plus is ideal for an active, dedicated Peloton member who runs, walks, hikes, or workouts regularly (or all) and also engages in strength training and other physical activities. It is ideal for households with a large space (a basement, garage or extra room) dedicated to training.
It’s a perfect machine for busy, goal-oriented, competitive types who want motivation at home, appreciate variety, and also want the simplicity of one machine for a variety of fitness options and classes. You can also use Peloton Entertainment to stream from providers like Disney Plus, YouTube, and Kindle.
Although the Peloton IQ feature isn’t set to track form while running or walking on the Tread Plus itself, it would be a bonus for anyone who wants automated form correction, rep counting, and suggested weights for other fitness classes using the screen.
Who shouldn’t get it: The Tread Plus is not ideal for anyone who enjoys unguided fitness or prefers to pace themselves with their own listening entertainment (music, audiobooks, etc.). Athletes who prefer to run outdoors or at the gym, or who don’t want to pay an extra membership fee ($50 per month) for an all-access fitness app, are better off using standard equipment.
The Tread Plus would not work for households with limited space or requiring compact or foldable exercise equipment. The machine is heavy (the Tread Plus weighs 460 pounds, compared to 286 pounds for the regular Tread) and cannot be easily moved to accommodate more space. To benefit from using the Peloton IQ for motion tracking, there must be sufficient space around the machine.
Runners who prefer tactile buttons for speed and incline might have difficulty adjusting to the rotary knobs. It’s hard to remember which direction to roll them (forward or backward) to increase or decrease speed or incline. The buttons work well when making a huge jump (like from 12% to 1% incline), but it felt like a subtle art to master the 0.5 increments by just moving them up a notch.
— Laura Michelle Davis, editor-in-chief
Benefits
- Feels sturdy and stable, even at higher speeds
- Users with the Peloton app can connect their phone or tablet via Bluetooth to track workout metrics
- Smartwatch compatibility for Apple and Samsung Galaxy Watch
- Wide range of built-in entertainment apps (YouTube, Prime Video, Netflix, Spotify, Kindle, etc.)
- Easy foldable design
- Two built-in fans with multiple speed settings
- Media shelf and large bottle holders
- Easy installation with minimal user assembly
Disadvantages
- $12 per month JRNY membership required to access guided workouts after 2 month trial
- The screen height is lower (like most treadmill screens), requiring taller people to look down when running
- You’ll still need a separate device to play Peloton classes
- Limited compatibility with smartwatches
- QuickDial controls can be too sensitive and easy to accidentally bump into
- Console design looks somewhat dated despite app integration
- Media shelf does not securely hold phones during faster runs
Why we love it: The foldable BowFlex T16 offers a complete racing experience with a comfortable deck, intuitive controls and excellent stability for its size. At $2,000, it’s also one of the more affordable options on this list, offering plenty of features for the price. The QuickDial system makes it easy to adjust speed and incline, and the large 20 x 60 inch belt with padding is ideal for longer runs. With its mix of entertainment apps like Netflix and Prime Video and its sturdy build, it’s an optimal choice for people who value performance and comfort over design.
Who is it best for: This treadmill is perfect for beginners, recreational runners, and intermediate runners. The BowFlex T16 is suitable for both tall and short runners, as well as those with longer strides. If you want a sturdy treadmill for regular training, you’ll find that this one can handle the mileage. This is also ideal for those who want a foldable treadmill.
Another advantage is that you can watch your favorite shows on streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and Spotify. If you take Peloton classes, you can also connect to the Peloton app.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you’re a runner who likes a larger (16-inch) high-resolution touchscreen, you’ll find this one outdated and small. If you have limited space at home, the T16 is large at 77.2 inches long, 37 inches wide, and 67.6 inches high; therefore, it may not be compatible with a smaller home gym. Additionally, you need to pay for the JRNY app subscription ($12 per month) to get the full BowFlex experience. It’s worth considering if you prefer a machine that doesn’t require a subscription.
— CNET Test Center in Louisville
Benefits
- Is ideal for apartments and small spaces
- Looks like a similar design and display of a Peloton
- LED strips on the side rails change color to match your pace
- It has a modern, swiveling 22-inch touchscreen
- Wireless charging pad integrated into the console
- Tons of live and on-demand classes with an Echelon subscription
- Unique virtual racing functionality
- Quiet motor operation
- Trackball-style controls for speed and incline adjustments
- Easy to move thanks to integrated transport wheels
Disadvantages
- A paid subscription ($33 per month and up) is required to access workouts and features
- A smaller 20 x 60 inch running platform is not ideal for tall people or those who take long strides
- Not as sturdy or padded as larger, heavier treadmills
- Screen shakes slightly at higher speeds
- Folding requires screw removal (not true one-touch folding)
- Trackball controls can be slow to respond
- Firmware updates can be complicated
Why we love it: The Echelon Stride-8s is a premium compact treadmill that brings a refined studio feel to small living spaces. The modern touchscreen, wireless charging, entertainment apps like Netflix and Disney Plus, and an immersive training platform make workouts convenient and give its users a live class feel. For people who enjoy guided classes and virtual competitions, Echelon’s platform offers much more than the basic features of a treadmill.
Who is it best for: This treadmill is ideal for beginner and recreational runners who enjoy jogging. Due to its compact size, it is ideal if you live in an apartment or have limited space in your home workout space. It’s also quieter and less bulky than other picks on this list. Through the Echelon app, you will also be able to enjoy on-demand and live classes as well as other third-party entertainment apps on the 22-inch swivel screen.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you are a runner who regularly runs long distances or enjoy sprinting, this treadmill may not be the best for you. The same goes if you plan to use the treadmill for high-impact activities. Taller people or those with longer strides may find this belt too short, so you’re better off using one of the heavy-duty treadmills on this list. If you prefer a treadmill without a subscription, this one may not be a good solution, as it requires a subscription to unlock its full potential. It’s $33 per month for an annual subscription or $40 per month for a monthly subscription.
— CNET Test Center in Louisville
Comparison of the best treadmills for 2026
| Treadmill | Price | Shipping and assembly | Speed | Tilt/Decline | Dimensions | Belt dimensions | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordicTrack X24 | $3,000 | Free delivery; White glove delivery available for a fee and not available in all locations | 0-12 mph | 40% incline to -6% decline | 69.9 (L) x 38.1 (W) x 73.3 (H) inches | 22(L) x 60(W) inches | Lifetime engine warranty 10 years on the chassis, 2 years on parts, 1 year on the shelf and 1 year on labor |
| Victory Rowing Treadmill | $2,700.00 | 60 minutes self-assembly; two people recommended/White Glove service is available in select zip codes; $299 (depending on zip code) | 0-12 mph | 12% incline (no decline) | 77(L) x 33(W) x 62(H) inches | 20.5 (L) x 57 (W) inches | A 20-year limited warranty is offered provided your initial membership is active and the equipment is purchased directly through their website. |
| Peloton Cross Plus Training Tread | $6,695 | Free standard delivery, free expert assembly | 0-12.5 mph | 0-15% incline (no decline) | 75(L) x 37(W) x 70(H) inches | 67(L) x 20(W) inches | Treadmill touch screen and most original components up to 12 months, Tread+ drive motor, walking belt and Tread+ frame up to 5 years |
| ArcFlex T16 | $2,000 | $200 standard shipping; Delivery with assembly: $349 | 0-12 mph | 12% incline (no decline) | 67 (L) × 33.1 (W) × 63 (H) inches | 22(L) x 60(W) inches | 1 year on all equipment; 5 years on treadmill cranks and motor; 10 years on frames |
| Echelon Stride-8 | $2,500 | Free delivery with the purchase of a Premier Annual Membership on the Echelon Fit app; Assembly and home delivery costs: $300 | 0-12 mph | 15% incline (no decline) | 77.2″ x 37″ x 67.6″ | 20(L) x 60(W) inches | Lifetime chassis and engine warranty, 3-year mechanical warranty, 1-year labor warranty |
When we test treadmills, we usually test them at home or in one of our official test laboratories. As a small team, we collaborate on testing that can take months to ensure products are properly tested and to bring you the most vital information you will need before making your purchase.
We’ve established a methodology for evaluating and rating every piece of fitness equipment we test. We judge fitness equipment based on the following:
Features: We look at the types of features these pieces of equipment offer, how advanced or simple they are, and whether the machine can connect to built-in or third-party apps or wearable devices. As advanced as it is, it should be intuitive for most people.
Software: Many of these machines have built-in programs, so we evaluate their ease of use and the challenges we encounter.
Functionality : During testing, we determine if the machine works as promised. Additionally, we observe how intuitive it is to use and whether or not it has all the features. Even if the machine is as simple as possible, the device should still work as promised. If the machine is more modern, it should still be easy for everyone to use.
Assembly: We note how long it takes to assemble the fitness equipment and whether you need an extra set of hands. In some cases, brands offer white glove delivery, but in others, you have to assemble it yourself. Fitness equipment tends to be heavy, so it’s usually the job of two people.
Guarantee: It’s important to know the warranty information for your equipment in case you need a replacement. Since fitness equipment is an investment, you need to feel confident knowing that you are getting a top quality product. If a part needs to be replaced, the replacement or refund window must be cleared.
Learn more about how we test fitness equipment.
ProForm Carbon Pro 9000 ($1,999): THE ProForm Carbon Pro 9000 had some attractive features, but it didn’t make our best list. If the other treadmills on the list don’t match the type of treadmill you’d like to own, the Carbon Pro 9000 can still be a good choice if you want to be able to fold your treadmill up when not in use to save space. If you already have an iFIT membership, you can access and use these workouts on this treadmill.
Treadmills are an investment, so before buying you should consider several factors.
Budget: Set a budget and decide how much you’re willing to spend: You can get a quality treadmill on a budget or splurge for additional features. Likewise, consider whether you want a smart treadmill with a touchscreen and virtual classes, or whether you prefer a simpler model without a touchscreen providing basic measurements.
Size: Consider the size of the treadmill and the space you have in your home to install one. Decide if you want the treadmill to be foldable for easier storage and space saving. If you plan to do additional workouts included with a membership, check to see if you have enough space nearby for a floor workout.
Workouts: Consider your training plans; Are you considering using the treadmill more for running or walking? Determine whether multiple people in your household will use the treadmill and whether you need one that can support different heights and weights. Also consider whether you’re OK with a treadmill that makes noise or if you’d prefer it to be quiet.
There are different ways to use a treadmill. Below are some workouts you can try, as recommended by our experts.
Running indoors or outdoors: One thing to keep in mind is that how you run outside will translate differently indoors. You’ll notice that your smartwatch’s pace readings are often inconsistent when you’re running on a treadmill or outside. Even running on a treadmill can change your stride compared to running outside.
“The most transferable metric to outdoor running is pace and incline,” said Peloton instructor Matt Wilpers. Therefore, if you are training for a race and are considering mixing outdoor and treadmill runs, these are the key metrics you should focus on. Plus, you have more control over a treadmill workout because you can focus on mechanics, breathing, and mental focus instead of focusing on your smartwatch for data.
Interval training: You can practice it on the treadmill by alternating between an easy walk or jog and a fast run or jog. This varies from person to person, so it’s helpful to use your rate of perceived exertion to determine what these speeds feel like to you. An interval workout might look like running at a fast pace for one minute, followed by walking or jogging for two minutes, alternating between the two for 20 minutes and adding a cooldown.
Hills and flats: If you find walking on a treadmill boring, you can always play with the incline. Peloton instructor Rebecca Kennedy said: “Walking is easy on the joints while providing an incredible cardio output, allowing you to condition without the impact of running.” For example, on Peloton hikes (one of the classes she teaches), you do walks with inclines ranging from 4% to 15%.
Turn with flat and inclined intervals. If you’re used to running on hills, try increasing the speed when you do a flat interval. Not only will you challenge yourself by doing this type of workout, but you’ll target muscles like your glutes, quads, and hamstrings.
Sprint Intervals: If you’re trying to improve your speed, sprinting is a good way to do it. You can play with the timing, starting with 30 seconds of running at the fastest speed you can tolerate, then alternating with 30 seconds of walking. As you become more familiar with sprints, you can add more time to the sprint.
If you’re new to the treadmill and looking for tips on how to use it correctly, our experts have shared best practices to follow.
Warm: As with any workout, don’t neglect the warm-up. At an easy walking pace, warm up for five to ten minutes.
Don’t hang on to the railings: If you’re running on a treadmill at a pace that’s slightly too fast for you, it’s tempting to hold on to the console or handrails. “This risks injury and is not proper form for a treadmill,” warns Wilpers. If you find the speed too fast, reduce it until you are comfortable enough to keep your elbows at your sides.
Don’t start too quickly: A common mistake is to increase the speed too soon. Wilpers says, “Be sure to do a warm-up or easy jog before moving on to an actual run.”
Use your arms: It’s easy to forget about your arms if you’re jogging or running on a treadmill, but using your arms by swinging them while you run makes you a more efficient runner. “Be sure to keep them bent at about 90 degrees, at your side and not swing them across the body, as that’s a sign that your torso is rotating too much,” Wilpers said.
Run big, run light, run relaxed: If you’re running on the treadmill, you want the movement to feel as natural as possible. “Throughout your runs, perform mental body scans to assess your condition from head to toe, including your breathing,” Wilpers said.
When you think about your form, running tall means you maintain an upright posture with a forward ankle tilt, while running light refers to light, fast feet, and running relaxed is about relaxing everything else that isn’t driving the movement.
Who should avoid treadmills? It is important to avoid using a treadmill if you are currently injured, have an illness, have recently had surgery, or are postpartum. “I wouldn’t recommend a treadmill workout at this time, but once you get clearance from your doctor, treadmilling can probably be a good training tool to get you back into good shape,” Kennedy said. If you suffer from heart problems, dizziness, arthritis or discs, it is best to consult your doctor first.
Keep it clean: Your treadmill will need periodic maintenance to keep it in good condition. You will need to clean your treadmill to keep it free of debris with a cleaner suitable for gym equipment. Sometimes the treadmill manufacturer sells their favorite cleaner on their website.
Check the safety key and belt: It is important to ensure that the safety key (usually found on all treadmills) is still working to ensure that your treadmill remains safe to use. According to ProForm, you should check monthly to ensure the treadmill belt remains under tension and is properly aligned. Usually, the instruction manual includes instructions for adjusting your treadmill belt.
Examine the power cord and bolts: Additionally, inspect the power cord for potential damage and check that your treadmill’s bolts and screws are still tight. Over time and use, some of these parts may come loose, so they may need to be tightened from time to time.
Keep it lubricated: Another factor to consider is whether the treadmill needs lubrication. When you buy your treadmill, you will likely find a small tube of lubricant in your package. This helps keep the treadmill belt in good condition, as the lubrication can dry out over time. According to NordicTrack, if the treadmill is not correct properly lubricated, this can affect its operation, causing the belt to bind and even overheat. For proper instructions on lubricating your treadmill, follow the instruction manual or call the manufacturer’s customer service number for assistance.
Look for replacements if necessary: Finally, if you have completed all the required inspections and find that your treadmill belt is worn, it may be time to replace it. Make sure you have your treadmill model number on hand before ordering a replacement belt. Follow the instructions on the manufacturer’s website or in the owner’s manual to make sure you install it correctly.
According to NordicTrack, you will need to purchase a silicone-free treadmill lubricant from the treadmill supplier. Follow its recommended steps to properly lubricate your treadmill.
It depends on the type and quality of treadmill you are looking for. You can find treadmills for less than $1,000, but they may not have the sturdiness and capacity that a more expensive option offers. If you want a treadmill with special features, expect to spend upwards of $1,000, with more expensive models ranging from $3,000 to $5,000.
Running on a 0% or steep slope can increase your risk of knee injuries, shin splints and other problems. According to orthopedic surgeon Kevin D. Plancher, running with gentler inclines is safer on the knees. He suggests running at a 1-3% incline to avoid unnatural movements that normally occur at 0% incline. This helps relieve pressure on the knees and ends up working your glutes and hamstrings more.
Any activity that increases your daily calorie burn is bound to contribute to weight loss. Walking or running on a treadmill can help you achieve your fitness goals and contribute to weight loss.
Walking on a treadmill can contribute to joint stress and risk of injury, but maintaining good form can help.
Manual treadmills do not require electricity to operate. You and your movements power the manual treadmills, so the more effort you put in, the harder the workout you’ll get in return.
Curved treadmills have unique advantages over traditional motorized treadmills. They are powered by your own movement rather than electricity, which can lead to burning up to 30% more calories during your workout. The curved design also leads to a more natural running form with a midfoot strike and improved posture. However, curved treadmills tend to be more expensive, have a steeper learning curve, and may not be ideal for beginners or those with balance issues. Traditional motorized treadmills are the most versatile option.