8 Best Treadmills Under $1000 in 2024

Finding a proper treadmill may become quite challenging, not all of us know what features to pay attention to when purchasing it. Whether it’s better to search for the best treadmill under $1000 or look for the best cushioning one, or a compact gear. Considering modern life’s swiftness, a treadmill became an ideal choice of home fitness gear for those who are trying to stay fit despite time shortage.

A treadmill can be an irreplaceable everyday cardio training tool for people who like walking, jogging, or running, no matter what intensity and duration they prefer. It can help them to achieve their fitness goals without worrying about how to find time for gym workouts. We prepared a detailed guide and analysis of the best treadmills on the market available that won’t empty your pocket, and still provide enough functionality and specs to be able to improve your condition.

Top 8 Best Treadmills Under $1000 Reviewed

1. Schwinn 810 Treadmill – Top Pick
2. ProForm City L6 – Runner Up
3. Sunny Easy Assembly Folding Treadmill
4. Sunny Under Desk Treadmill
5. NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill
6. XTERRA Fitness TRX3500
7. ANCHEER Treadmill
8. SereneLife LS26 Folding Treadmill

Product	Total	Adjustability	Monitor functionality	Portability	Versatility	Comfort	Price/ Quality
Schwinn	59.5	10	10	9.5	10	10	10
ProForm	58	9.5	9	10	9.5	10	10
Sunny (Easy Treadmill)	57	9	9	10	9.5	9.5	10
Sunny (Under Desk Treadmill)	57	9.5	9	10	9	9.5	10
NordicTrack	56.5	9.5	10	9	9.5	9.5	9
XTERRA	56.5	9.5	10	9	9.5	9.5	9
ANCHEER	55	9.5	9	9.5	9	9	9
SereneLife	55	9	9	9.5	9	9	9.5

1. Top Pick: Schwinn 810 Treadmill

• Speed range: up to 10 MPH
• Max incline: up to 10%
• Running surface: 20” W x 55” L 
• Folding: SoftDrop folding system
• Weight Limit: 275 lb
• Item weight: 155 lb
• Product Dimensions:  69.1” L x 35.6” W x 56.7” H (folded: 60.2” H x 39.5” L)
• Display: backlit LCD display
• Workout programs: build-in 16 workouts
• Warranty: 10 years motor and frame, 1 year mechanical and electrical, and 1 year labor
• Additional features: SoftTrak Cushioning System; Bluetooth, Explore the World App, Peloton, Zwift, MyFitnessPal, Google Fit, and Apple Health connectivity; SoftDrop folding design; USB charging option

Having established itself as a reputable American-originated company primarily specializing in designing bicycles, Schwinn means innovative and authentic quality and appearance. Today, it offers various iconic products, i.e., indoor cycling bikes, upright, recumbent, air bikes, ellipticals, and treadmills. Here we offer to look closer at the Schwinn 810 treadmill we chose as a top pick among alternatives on the market.

This best treadmill for home under $1000 offers a top-level quality multi-functional treadmill that will help you to arrange your active lifestyle. No matter your fitness level and goal, this gear will definitely meet your needs and even exceed your expectations.

Equipped with an LCD screen, 16 workout programs, and 2 user profiles, you can sync it with your device via Bluetooth and download the Explore the World app to travel the globe virtually. You’ll be able to track your metrics, compare your progress after each workout, and sync it with your Strava account. Although, you need to purchase the Explore the World subscription for getting such a wide range of fitness programs.

Handlebars have integrated HR grip sensors that send your heart rate to the console, so you can see your real-time pulse and train efficiently in different intensity zones. Also, you can adjust the needed speed and run the targeted distance at your comfortable pace and set a proper incline with a maximum of 10%.

2. Runner Up: ProForm City L6

• Speed range: 0 – 8 MPH
• Max incline: no incline
• Running surface: 17.5” W x 45” L 
• Folding: foldable
• Weight Limit: 250 lb
• Item weight: 125 lb
• Product Dimensions:  29” Wide x 70.25” Deep x 44.5” Tall
• Display: available
• Workout programs: no build-in programs
• Warranty: 10-year frame, 1-year parts & labor
• Additional features: iFIT® Enabled, 30-Day iFIT trial included, Bluetooth® enabled, ProShox cushioning

ProForm is another well-recognized company in the fitness equipment world that vouches for exceptional quality of the tools and also brings a unique training experience for each user. The City L6 treadmill is the second-best running treadmill under $1000 that provides an all-inclusive in-home running workout thanks to the iFit app.

Being one of the most exemplary home treadmills under $1000, there's no screen, but it has a backlit console that displays all the key metrics you need to know during the workout. Also, there's a device holder, so you can adjust your tablet or smartphone and sync it with the iFit application.

ProForm's great advantage is its compact size and exceptional foldability making it perfect for smaller spaces.

3. Sunny Easy Assembly Folding Treadmill

• Speed range: 0-5 mph
• Max incline: fixed incline at 9.98% (4.8°)
• Running surface: 14” W x 39” L 
• Folding: foldable
• Weight Limit: 220 lb
• Item weight: 70.5 lb
• Product Dimensions:  49.6” L x 26.5” W x 47” H (folded: 21” L x 26.5” W x 51” H)
• Display: backlit LCD monitor
• Workout programs: workout library available
• Warranty: 3-year warranty on the frame, 180-day warranty on parts and components
• Additional features: emergency stop clip, shock absorption deck

The Sunny treadmill is a good choice for home running that offers enough functionality without some extra perks and interactive features. The treadmill has a set incline of 4.8° (9.98%) which still can challenge your body and get you closer to the destination. It’s also equipped with integrated shock absorption that brings you a soft surface with no impact on the joints.

The backlit LCD monitor displays time, distance, speed, and calories. Additionally, you can set specific workout times, calorie goals, or distance. The treadmill easily folds upward and has transportation wheels for portability.

Despite there being no pre-set workouts or fitness app compatibility, a runner can visit the Sunny official website and go to the workout library. Here you can find a particular running workout video led by a professional trainer that will fit your needs and conditioning. Such workouts include warm-up, the workout itself, and cool-down blocks, and also there will be recommended tools to use for the specific training.

4. Sunny Under Desk Treadmill - Best Under Desk

• Speed range: 0.5 - 3.75 mph
• Max incline: no incline
• Running surface: 39” L x 14” W
• Folding: non-foldable
• Weight Limit: 220 lb
• Item weight: 55.1 lb
• Product Dimensions:  50” L x 21.5” W x 6.5” H
• Display: 14” x 5” digital monitor
• Workout programs: no set programs, workout library available
• Warranty: 3 years for the frame, 180 days for parts and components
• Additional features: remote control included, built-in shock absorbers, emergency stop clip

This unique treadmill under 1000 dollars is designed for walking since it has a speed range of up to 3.75 mph. It’s also the most compact treadmill you can place under the desk, bed, or nightstand. Sunny Walkstation slim treadmill comes fully assembled and can be stored whenever you want and has enough space for it: in the upright position or flat on the ground. Although this low-profile running machine can be managed with the help of the remote control, you can also manage the workout intensity on your own.

Additionally, there’s a digital monitor that shows essential metrics such as time, speed, calories burned, steps, and distance. By using your device, you can get access to the workout library, which you can find in the Workouts section of the Sunny website and the YouTube channel. A distinctive feature is Smart Power Saving technology which means the treadmill moves into the Power Saving mode if being idle for more than 10 minutes.

5. NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill

• Speed range: 0 - 10 mph
• Max incline: auto incline (10%)
• Running surface: 20” W x 55” L
• Folding: foldable
• Weight Limit: 300 lb
• Item weight: 203 lb
• Product Dimensions: 54" H x 36" W x 73.5" L
• Display: 5” backlit display
• Workout programs: 20 workout apps
• Warranty: lifetime frame warranty, 10-year motor warranty, 2-year parts & labor upon warranty registration within 28 days of purchase
• Additional features: FlexSelect™ cushioning, dual CardioGrip™ heart rate monitor, iFit membership, SpaceSaver® design

The NordicTrack treadmill comes with the iFit membership with unlimited workout opportunities by providing users with access to studio sessions and global workouts, as well as cross-training options like yoga and functional training. You’ll get in touch with world-class coaches who will guide you throughout the running session.

You’ll be impressed with more than 2,000 on-demand workouts available at any time. You’ll succeed to achieve great results with the trainer’s controlling your speed and incline. With the 30-Day iFIT trial, you can create up to 5 adult profiles.

The treadmill is equipped with a 10% one-touch incline control, and 10 mph maximum speed control that mimics real-world terrain.

6. XTERRA Fitness TRX3500

• Speed range: 0-12 mph
• Max incline: 12%
• Running surface: 20" W x 60" L
• Folding: foldable
• Weight Limit: 330 lb
• Item weight: 213.9 lb
• Product Dimensions: 77.2” x 35.5" x 56.1"
• Display: 51.2” x 35.5” x 65.8”
• Workout programs: 30 pre-set programs
• Warranty: lifetime frame and motor warranty, 2 years deck and parts, 1-year in-home labor
• Additional features: Bluetooth connectivity, compatible with third-party apps like Zwift, Kinomap, Tacs, XTRASoft deck cushioning, built-in fan, pulse sensors

XTERRA treadmill brings you a high-quality home running workout by offering multiple options and opportunities. You'll get a speed range of up to 12 mph and 12 different levels of incline, and be able to choose a proper training regime by connecting to popular fitness apps with no limits.

Also, you have speed and incline control buttons on the handlebar, together with a heart rate receiver, which brings extra comfort in tracking your stats during the workout. With the Lift Assist and Safe Drop design, you can safely and easily fold and set up the tool between use.

7. ANCHEER Treadmill

• Speed range: 0-9 mph
• Max incline: auto incline, 15% max
• Running surface: 17” W x 47” L
• Folding: foldable
• Weight Limit: 300 lb
• Item weight: 102 lb
• Product Dimensions: 60.4" L x 27.6" W x 48.8" H (folded: 35" L x 27.6" W x 54.7" H)
• Display: LCD digital monitor
• Workout programs: 12 preset programs and 3 modes
• Warranty: 5-year motor, lifetime frame, and 1-year parts
• Additional features: Fitshow, Bluetooth connectivity, stereo Bluetooth speakers, heart rate sensors

ANCHEER treadmill is equipped with a two-tier running board combined with a shock-absorbing system that reduces noise and decreases vibration to your floor, providing you with maximum stability and a quiet workout experience. Additionally, a 7-layer compressed tread belt effectively absorbs impacts and protects your knees and joints.

You can track your progress in real-time thanks to the LCD screen showing your speed, calories, run time, and distance. Integrated hand sensors for heart rate monitoring will keep you informed about your pulse pumping throughout the workout. Also, you’ll find the buttons controlling speed and incline options that are placed on the handrails.

With the FitShow app, you can connect it to your device via Bluetooth and use diverse exercise modes to get your fitness goals. It can simulate real-life running outdoors due to the option of a 15% incline maximum, track your personal workout data, and adjust your workout plan more efficiently.

8. SereneLife LS26 Folding Treadmill

• Speed range: 0-6.5 mph
• Max incline: 4-level manually adjustable incline
• Running surface: 15.7” W x 39.3” L
• Folding: foldable
• Weight Limit: 265 lb
• Item weight: 59 lb
• Product Dimensions: 46.4” L x 21.65” W x 24.4” H (folded: 21.65” L x 24.4” W x 46.4” H)
• Display: 3” LCD display
• Workout programs: 12 pre-set programs
• Warranty: 1 year
• Additional features: FitShow, Kinomap, Bluetooth connectivity, built-in pulse sensors

This compact treadmill provides a runner with diverse workout experience making them get closer to their goals and simplifying progress in running. It becomes easier with the 4-way adjustable incline to mimic real terrains, 12 pre-set training modes, and also a manual program option where you can make the training more customized by adjusting the settings to your preferences.

It comes with a hydraulic folding system for easy storage. Equipped with a 3” LCD monitor that displays your speed, time, distance, heart rate, and calories. To make your running more interactive, you can download a training fitness app you prefer, i.e., Kinomap, Firshow, or Zwift.

Treadmills Under $1000 Benefits

Every sports equipment has a particular impact on our general health and condition. It helps us to master the specific sport discipline, improve technique, strengthen specific muscle groups, as well as support our mental health.

When buying a treadmill, some of us expect to get some benefit for our well-being and physical shape. Others anticipate getting specific perks from treadmills under $1000, meaning better functionality and a wider range of options. Let’s see what benefits you’ll get by choosing a treadmill under $1000:

✅Speed Range

In our list, you can find treadmills of different speed ranges that will fit any training capabilities. Sunny treadmills go with a maximum of 3.75 mph and 5 mph, while Scwinn, NordicTrack, and XTERRA offer the biggest maximum speed up to 10 and 12 mph.

It needs to be outlined that treadmills under 5 mph will keep your body in a fat-burning mode and support a walking regime. 5-10 mph is for light jogging, and 10-12 mph is the speed most runners prefer for intensive running workouts. Speaking about 12-15 mph, this treadmill type targets most serious sprinters and marathoners.

✅Incline Adjustability

Keep in mind that using a treadmill with zero incline makes walking or running even easier than running on a flat surface. So, if you want to get a more challenging workout, consider those models that offer at least a 5% of incline. By changing this option you can target different muscles. Generally, running training mostly activates calves, quadriceps, and glutes by increasing the aerobic threshold that helps to improve endurance, and muscular strength capabilities, as well as preventing injuries.

The majority of running machines come with 5-10%, some offer even 12% and 15% incline, so they imitate climbing high hills. For instance, Schwinn offers 10% of the maximum incline, XTERRA - 12%, and ANCHEER brings the maximum incline of 15%.

Meanwhile, other gears are with a fixed auto incline or even don’t have any at all. Such an option will fit those who prefer jogging and light running on flat surfaces without elevations. Therefore, before your running session, we recommend you start with a slight incline (2-3%) and then increase it gradually considering your training plan.

✅App Connectivity & Interactivity

The availability of application connectivity enables a runner to take their running experience to the next level by keeping higher motivation and engagement during the running workout. The more interactive features and options you have, the more your focus will be on the training process and you’ll succeed to track your progress with the wider range of metrics available.

Moreover, with fitness apps like iFit, Explore the World, Kinomap, and others, you’ll be able to get a personal trainer, join group classes and even participate in competitions online. Syncing your device with the specific fitness apps allows you to get all the stats after each running workout.

What to Look For in the Best Treadmill Under $1000

When choosing a treadmill, it’s important to define first what your fitness goals are, how often you plan to work out, and which treadmill options are important for you. Then, you should focus on the technical part, meaning whether it’s possible to adjust it to your needs to the max by bringing you optimal comfort. Consider the following aspects we suppose to be critical before the treadmill purchase.

1. Adjustability

Like with any other fitness equipment, the adjustability option can't be underestimated. This feature guarantees that your tool will fit you at the maximum because you can adjust it according to your height, level of physical performance, and current goals.

So, when choosing an appropriate treadmill, you should pay attention to the following specs:

• Belt size: the belt should be at least 48" long and 18" wide for comfortable running. If you're over 6' tall, you need a treadmill at least with a 52" belt length for walking and a 54" for running.
• Incline: with this option, you'll be able to fix a treadmill as you wish by adding some diversity to your indoor running and making it more intensive. Pick up a treadmill with an incline of up to 10% or even higher. Moreover, if a treadmill has a decline feature, that also will be useful for your running session that will be even closer to outdoor running conditions. We have several treadmills on the list that have maximum incline levels: XTERRA TRX 3500 comes with a 12% max incline and ANCHEER - with 15%.
• Speed range is apparently the most important feature for a runner. If you plan on intensive running, choose a treadmill that goes up to at least 10 mph. Here, we have three treadmills that can offer you such an option: Schwinn and NordicTrack with a maximum of 10 mph, and XTERRA - 12 mph.

2. Monitor Functionality & Programming

Another valuable option to consider is the programming of a treadmill, its functionality, and its interactivity. The majority of budget treadmills come with basic programming and a simple console that shows basic metric-tracking features, i.e., distance, time, calories, HR, and pace during the ongoing running session.

Most treadmills of a higher level offer preset workout programs, and are compatible with particular applications that add interactivity to your training. This feature helps to support different running goals, including weight loss, endurance training, and more intensive cardio. Some programs can automatically control the speed, or even adjust its incline/decline if applicable.

Considering the reviewed treadmills, we have some tools with pre-set programs and those that can be connected to different fitness apps like iFit, Explore the World, FitShow, Kinomap, etc. Usually, these programs offer almost unlimited options to diversify your training, including group running sessions and interactive virtual running workouts.

3. Portability

Consider treadmill dimensions if you're limited in space. It’s better to focus on its portability and foldability and measure the space you can spare for storage. Most treadmills can be folded upwards, some can be folded completely flat (this is a ProForm treadmill), so you can store it underneath a bed or desk. Generally, smaller tools are lightweight and come with transport wheels. For, example, the Schwinn treadmill has a SoftDrop folding design for easy storage.

Additionally, keep your eye on the weight: remember that the heavier treadmill is, the harder it’ll be to move. Although a heavy product can be a sign of good durability, you'll need to carefully think out your priorities.

4. Versatility

It’s important to choose a high-quality, durable, and functional treadmill that will bring you a versatile running workout that will incorporate not only good cardio but also add some strength and endurance-oriented sessions. With sufficient specs, besides pumping up the cardiovascular system, you’ll be able to develop muscles, flexibility, balance, and coordination just like when running outdoors.

5. Comfort

Treadmill comfort can depend on several features such as cushioning and adjustability to reduce stress on feet, ankles, joints, and knees. The majority of the equipment we reviewed is equipped with various shock-absorption technologies, for instance, ProShox, Softrak, or FlexSelect cushioning systems. One of the primary goals of a treadmill is to provide a runner with maximum comfortable running, jogging, and walking. That’s why, built-in shock absorbers can bring the opportunity for longer workouts and a sufficient recovery period. For better comfort, some treadmills have built-in grip buttons to easily adjust the pace and incline.

It is impossible to find a treadmill that will perfectly suit every user. Everyone assesses it considering their preferences and needs. Thus, it’s better to thoroughly test several treadmills before the purchase, so you’ll be able to tell a significant difference.

6. Price/Quality

Another clear sign of top-notch quality and manufacturer reputation is the product warranty that covers the frame, motor, components, and labor. Consider that the parts are most susceptible to malfunction and can have the highest repair costs. These items are computers, belts, decks, and rollers. In budget-friendly treadmills, components are typically covered with 90 day-warranty or less, meanwhile, higher quality machines can offer 10 years of warranty for the frame.

The next point to keep in mind is maintenance, meaning some treadmills require adding a lubricant between the deck and belt surface like with SereneLife. The manufacturer recommends applying lubrication under the running belt to ensure superior performance and extend treadmill life expectancy. It’s recommended to use a silicone oil lubricant after the first 25 hours of use (or 2-3 months) and repeat it for every following 50 hours of use (or 5-8 months).

The treadmill quality and efficiency also refer to the horsepower delivered by the drive motor and it indicates how your workouts will feel. We advise you to look for a motor with at least 1.5 continuous-duty horsepower. If you run regularly, then you'll be better to choose from 2.5 to 3.0 CHP. Consider a strong drive system that can cool itself to withstand frequent speed changes, so you'll get high levels of inertia for a smooth and powerful feel.

How to Use a Treadmill Right?

If you’re a novice in running and have never tried using a treadmill, then you should get to know how to use and maintain it properly to vouch for the longevity of its service, and what steps to perform before the first running session.

1. Read Maintenance Instructions

Before you start using a treadmill, or plan any repair work, look through the user manual. Usually, it’s recommended before each use to examine the machine for loose, broken, damaged, or worn parts on a daily basis, and repair or replace all parts at the first sign of wear or damage, except for the walking deck since it’s designed for wear on both sides of it.

If only one side of the walking deck is worn, a replacement deck is not required. Also, you should check the gear for smooth roller operation weekly, and wipe the machine to remove dust and dirt. Finally, make sure that the bolts and screws are tight.

2. Adjust the Needed Functions

Familiarize yourself with the treadmill console, what buttons are available, and which functions you can fix manually. Try to adjust the speed and incline, but when starting the running workout don’t hurry to adjust it, start with its lowest setting.

3. Warming Up

Don’t neglect to warm up and cool down before and after the training to avoid injuries. Do some stretching exercises to loosen up your muscles: lift your knees as high as possible, swing your legs gradually lifting as higher as your muscles loosen up.

4. Get Started Gradually

Get on the treadmill, but don't step on the belt. Grab the handrails and step on the sides of the belt. Start with a warm-up running: walk at a slow or fast pace, or jog lightly if you plan to do a steady state running. Gradually increase your speed while warming up.

5. Follow the Correct Running Technique

Walk or run with proper form: keep your back straight, shoulders broad and relaxed, with eyes looking forward. Once you start light running, pump your arms smoothly in sync with your legs. The most important thing is to be as relaxed as possible.

FAQ

What Type of Treadmill Is Best for Home Use?

Generally, it’s about the runner’s goals, needs, and preferences. Although, if you have limited space, you need a more compact treadmill with a minimal footprint and the ability to stow away easily to store under the table or bed. The most compact and best foldable treadmills are ProForm City L6 and Sunny Slim Under Desk.

How Much Does the Best Treadmill Cost?

Sometimes it can be troublesome to define the best treadmill among almost equal equipment featuring the same functionality, but with a slight difference. For each runner, the notion of the best product may vary depending on their needs: someone wants highly interactive tools, while others prefer maximum incline and speed range functions. Considering the above-mentioned review, the first best treadmills’ cost varies between around $400 and $900.

Do Cheap Treadmills Last?

Treadmill longevity depends directly on its maintenance and warranty that can cover the needed repairs to prolong its lifespan. On average, the treadmill operates well for 10 years. However, it’s not the final point since if you take care of the equipment properly, it’ll last much longer. It’s obvious that some components may come apart after some time, but you don’t need to worry about it, as nothing lasts forever. So, even the cheap treadmill can function well if you use it within its capabilities.

Conclusion

To summarize, a treadmill should become a thought-out investment in your everyday fitness routine. It should provide sufficient functionality and be of top quality as well as satisfy your needs and goals. Nothing is worse than having sports gear that doesn’t fit your expectations and even appears to be too bulky for your living space. That’s why we gathered the most versatile and best treadmills under $1000 that will fit different runners’ intentions, fitness levels, and budgets.

There’s no difference whether you’re a pro marathoner, trail runner, or a beginner, you’ll find the perfect running gear for you in this list that will help you to accomplish your fitness goals. Meanwhile, we advise you to consider our top pick choice which is Schwinn 810. This treadmill will bring you the ultimate running experience with a more structured workout and full-body cardio training. Even if you train for a specific event, you can adjust it specifically to your needs, and replicate diverse terrain conditions, whether that’s hills or a flat course.

Can’t decide what treadmill will be a proper option for your running workout? Want to choose premium-class equipment like ProForm, Schwinn, or even Sunny gear, but don’t know which one will suit your needs better? Address your questions in the comment section so that we or other visitors could help you make the right choice.

Also read:

• Best Treadmill With Auto Incline
• Best Mat for Treadmill
• Best Manual Treadmill
• Best Treadmill for Bad Knees
• Nordictrack vs Peloton Treadmill
• Best Mini Treadmills
• Best Walkable Treadmill
• Treadmill vs Spin Bike
• How to Use a Treadmill

References:

1. 14 Tips for Treadmill Running // Verywellfit: https://www.verywellfit.com/tips-for-treadmill-running-2911986
2. Acute Effects of Warming Up on Achilles Tendon Blood Flow and Stiffness // Ncbi: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33337692/
3. Injury prevention of hamstring injuries through exercise interventions // Ncbi: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33480508/