Finding the right treadmill depends on your budget and how you plan to use it

When shopping for a treadmill, your intended usage dictates how much you'll need to spend. If you're a casual walker, a top-rated treadmill under $800 will probably hold up fine. Most of these treadmills fold for easy storage, but their low-powered motors (usually around 2.5 horsepower or lower) aren't strong enough to power long running workouts. Warranties in this price range tend to be short, and long-term durability is a common concern. We cover those models in a companion report on budget treadmills.

Casual runners can get away with a treadmill in the $800 to $2,000 range. At this price point, you'll find slightly more powerful motors (usually around 3 horsepower), longer running surfaces and additional features such as wireless heart-rate monitors and preset workout programs. Many treadmills in this price range come with lifetime frame warranties, but parts, labor and electronics may only be covered for one year.

Serious runners should start looking at treadmills priced at $2,000 and above. Treadmills over $2,000 have more powerful motors (sometimes up to 4 horsepower), sturdier designs and longer warranties. Many treadmills at this price point have lifetime frame and motor warranties, and labor is covered for several years in some cases. Experts say spending more initially will save you endless frustration and time spent dealing with customer-service representatives. Reviewers also say to keep the following in mind when shopping for treadmills:

  • Choose a motor with a continuous-duty rating of at least 3 horsepower for running. Walkers can get away with a weaker motor. Reviewers say you should avoid manual treadmills altogether because even the cheapest electric treadmill will work better.
  • Test the treadmill out before you use it. Walk or run just as you would during a workout, and pay attention to the treadmill's stability. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends testing the motor's power by setting it to its lowest speed, then planting your feet firmly on the belt and listening for unusual sounds.
  • Look for a two-ply belt should be no less than 20 inches wide and 60 inches long. Walkers can get away with shorter belts. Runners over 6 feet 5 inches should look for extra-long belts around 62 inches.
  • Don't settle for a deck less than a quarter-inch thick. The best decks are low-impact structures that absorb shock when your foot hits the belt. Some treadmills even have an adjustable suspension so you can fine-tune the stability. Experts say the deck should feel steady beneath you, but not too soft.
  • Make sure the display shows speed, distance covered, incline and time elapsed at once, preferably in large, easy-to-read, backlit numbers. Many have a scanning display that rotates through the information one metric at a time.
  • Ask yourself: Can I easily reach the controls? Make sure you can reach the controls comfortably and that the buttons are responsive. Look for an emergency stop, which often comes with a clip that you can attach to your clothes so the treadmill will turn off automatically if you fall or stumble.
  • Consider only treadmills that can continue to fit your needs as your fitness progresses. According to the American Council on Exercise, beginners will do fine with an incline of up to 10 percent, but advanced exercisers may want a treadmill capable of up to a 15 percent incline. Test the machine's stability during incline mode before you buy.
  • Know your speed needs. Walkers need a speed capability of 5 mph; runners need at least 8 to 11 mph. The starting speed should be slow (0.1 to 0.5 mph) to avoid injury.
  • Read the fine print on the warranty. If you're heavier than the warranty specifies, the contract may be void. The frame should have a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. Other components should come with a warranty of one to three years for parts and labor. Avoid 90-day warranties. Look out for special exclusions or ways the warranty can be voided. Finally, make sure you can return the treadmill if it doesn't suit you.
  • Don't bother with an extended warranty except for very inexpensive machines. Although experts say extended warranties are usually a waste of money, you might consider one if your treadmill comes with a 90-day warranty. We found scads of complaints about these inexpensive machines, and a longer warranty may save you from some frustration down the road.
  • Maintain your treadmill regularly. Dirt and dust are the primary early killers of treadmills, so clean your treadmill consistently to prolong its service life. Most treadmills require regular lubrication to keep the belt and deck in good working order; check your user guide for instructions. In some cases, failing to do regular at-home maintenance may void your warranty.
  • Check the delivery policy. Sometimes, "delivery" only means delivery to your curb, and you may have to pay extra for bringing the treadmill into your house -- or even unloading it off the truck. Check the retailer's delivery policy before you sign on the dotted line.

Back to top