One of the best ways to motivate yourself to work out is by investing in your own exercise equipment. This gives you the option of doing it from the comfort of your home and once you’ve purchased a machine or two, you’re set.
My fitness journey came to life when I got myself a treadmill. These devices don’t have to break the bank, either. Catching one for the budget is possible. Curious to know more?
Let’s dive right in the best budget treadmills on the market.
In a Hurry? Here is our top pick:
No products found.
Best Budget treadmills 2023
- Xterra Fitness TR150 (Editor’s Choice)
- ProForm Performance 300i
- Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7718
- SereneLife Smart Folding Treadmill
- MaxKare Folding Treadmill
- Weslo Cadence G 5.9i
Reviews – The Best Budget Treadmills
We spent hours gathering up the best budget treadmills and are ready to share them with you. Each has something to offer, whether you’re totally new to working out or a serious fitness enthusiast. Let’s get started:
1. Xterra Fitness TR150 (Editor’s Choice)
No products found.
The Xterra TR150 was the first treadmill I ever purchased, so it holds a special place in my heart. One of the best things about it is how compact and portable it is. You can easily fold it away and the transport wheels make it easy to store.
This is invaluable if you’re living in a small space or using your treadmill in a multi-purpose area of your home.
Extras include a book rack for holding any reading materials and a place for your phone or water bottle. The 5-inch LCD screen offers you 12 preset workout programs where you can keep track of your speed, calories burned, distance and more. This provides a jolt of motivation when you’re working out alone.
It also comes with handlebars with built-in grip sensors that monitor your pulse. Overall, this component functions as a good safety measure, especially for those that might have difficulties with balance or for beginners.
The machine is powered by a 2.25HP motor that reaches up to 9 miles per hour. Its deck features an XTRASoft cushioning that works as shock absorption, which should support your joints when you’re jogging or running.
Tech Specifications
- Dimensions: 63.4 inches by 28.75 inches by 51.4 inches
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Max speed: 9 miles per hour
- Horsepower: 2.25
Pros
- Shock absorption.
- Quick-use speed buttons.
- Easy to store away.
- Preset workout programs.
Cons
- Manual incline option only.
2. ProForm Performance 300i
The ProForm 300i is a wonderful option for anyone that wants to challenge themselves a bit but not forego convenience. This is one of the only machines in this price range that offers 10 different incline settings that you can change automatically. Many others are manual only, which can be a pain, to say the least.
It’s not short on additional features either, as it includes built-in speakers and Bluetooth connectivity. Do you like to jam out while you’re running? You’ll appreciate this even more.
The belt measures up at 50 inches by 16 inches, which makes it one of the largest in this category. If you have an extra-long stride or are a larger individual in general, this will be essential for you. It also offers a proprietary PROSHOX cushioning, so it shouldn’t feel like you would be running outside on the pavement.
Speaking of size, this machine has the largest weight capacity on our list at 300 pounds. For those looking to shed some pounds, you should feel safe and confident with this treadmill.
Last but not least, you can monitor your heart rate too. When you’re finished working out and you’ve cooled down a bit, simply fold it up and store it away.
Tech Specifications
- Dimensions: 70 inches by 33 inches by 53 inches
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Max speed: 10 miles per hour
- Horsepower: 2.0
Pros
- High weight capacity.
- Cushioned belt.
- Automatic incline.
- Bluetooth enabled.
Cons
- LCD screen might be hard to read.
3. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7718
This treadmill is sleek in design, offering a low-profile as it sits low to the ground. The beauty in this is that it allows you to run at a faster pace without feeling out-of-balance or unsafe. It reaches up to 9 miles per hour.
Another compact feature is its foldable size at a mere 7.25 inches in height. This gives you the option of storing it in a slim-fitting space, such as under your bed. That doesn’t mean the workable dimensions are small, though. The treadmill has an extra-wide deck at 20 inches to support your stride and help you not feel cramped.
Extras include nine built-in programs and the ability to monitor your time, speed, distance and calories burned. It even comes with a Sunny-branded application where you can store all your data and keep track of your progress. This is a wonderful option when you’re exercising alone with no one to guide you.
The company didn’t forget about the music lovers, either. There’s a USB and headphone jack for charging and listening to music.
Tech Specifications
- Dimensions: 63 inches by 29.5 inches by 48 inches
- Weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Max speed: 9 miles per hour
- Horsepower: 2.5
Pros
- Slim foldable design.
- Extra-wide belt.
- Low deck.
- Application for storing data.
- USB and headphone options.
Cons
- The belt is too short for some.
4. SereneLife Smart Folding Treadmill
Are you a beginner to the workout world? You may want to start with something more basic and this option could fit the bill. It weighs in at a mere 67 pounds, making it one of the lightest machines on the market.
One of the reasons for this is the small motor size at 1HP. It’s efficient, hits up to 6 miles per hour and is quiet when running. You won’t have to worry about waking up the family when you hit it early in the morning. This speed is sufficient for those that are new to their routine or for anyone recovering from an injury, for example.
The LCD display offers preset training modes including cardio fitness, stamina building, weight loss and more. This is convenient and makes choosing your workout style a simple task. Connect to the FitShow app via Bluetooth to track your progress.
This treadmill features integrated grip sensors in the handle for monitoring your heart rate and you have other standard data bits, as well. These include time and speed, among others.
When it comes to storing this machine, a hydraulic folding system makes it easier than your manual options.
Tech Specifications
- Dimensions: 49.6 inches by 24 inches by 51.2 inches
- Weight capacity: 265 pounds
- Max speed: 6 miles per hour
- Horsepower: 1.0
Pros
- Perfect for beginners.
- Quiet engine.
- Lightweight and convenient to store.
- All the tracking options you need.
Cons
- Small frame may not fit everyone.
- Not suitable for fast runners.
5. MaxKare Folding Treadmill
No products found.
This company brings us a treadmill that isn’t missing much where the extras are concerned. If this is important for you, you’ve come to the right place. For starters, it features an extra-large LCD screen with a backlight making it easy to read.
It shows your real-time speed, mileage, calories burned and more. Your 15 preset workout programs should provide plenty to choose from, depending on your fitness level and goals. Monitor your heart rate with the built-sensors located on the handles, it’ll pop up right on the LCD display.
If incline is a must, do keep in mind that you’ll have to adjust it manually. This isn’t the end of the world but it could be an inconvenience for some. There are three levels available that you can enjoy while on the wide deck at 17 inches.
It sports an anti-shock system with the multi-layered belt, so it should make for a comfortable routine. The company also claims that it’s made to reduce noise and vibrations that can often accompany these devices. It’s a wonderful notion, given how annoying treadmills can sound.
Like many other machines on our list, it’s foldable by design and simple to store away.
Tech Specifications
- Dimensions: 53.39 inches by 26.18 inches by 45.95 inches
- Weight capacity: 220 pounds
- Max speed: 8.5 miles per hour
- Horsepower: 2.5
Pros
- Wide deck.
- Low on noise and vibrations.
- Anti-shock system.
- Backlit LCD screen.
Cons
- Weight capacity is on the lower end.
6. Weslo Cadence G 5.9i
This treadmill is a go-to choice for those that don’t care about fancy extras and would rather stick with the basics. That doesn’t mean it’s not without merits as it features a powerful motor at 2.5HP and reaches up to 10 miles per hour.
It sports a high weight capacity of 280 pounds. This is great news if you’re a larger individual who’s had trouble finding a suitable machine in this price range.
There’s an integrated tablet holder if you prefer to keep your devices closeby when you’re working out. Watch a little Netflix or listen to some tunes to keep you distracted during your routine.
Its Bluetooth capability and iFit app option provide further options for customizing your workout. Tune in to the application to keep track of your progress and enjoy the motivation that comes with that.
The one-step folding feature is great for those who don’t want the hassle of a complicated storage system. This treadmill folds down to around 60 inches by 29 inches, so you should have multiple options when it comes to location.
Tech Specifications
- Dimensions: 68 inches by 31 inches by 16 inches
- Weight capacity: 280 pounds
- Max speed: 10 miles per hour
- Horsepower: 2.5
Pros
- Shock-absorbing deck.
- High weight capacity.
- Reaches up to 10 miles per hour.
- One-step storage.
Cons
- Only two manual incline options.
Buyer’s Guide
Just because these treadmills are cheap, doesn’t mean it’s not an investment. You want to be sure to get something that suits your needs and space. Otherwise, what’s the point?
Some of the most important features to consider include:
Incline
For treadmills in this midrange, most come equipped with a manual incline and only a few settings, at that. This means you’d have to adjust it yourself physically. This can be annoying if you want to change it in a moment’s notice.
The ProForm 300i offers a motorized incline with 10 different settings, making it our top choice for this feature.
On the other hand, for beginners or those looking for a simple treadmill, a manual incline may not be the end of the world.
Belt Size
You want to fit comfortably on your treadmill, which means the size of the belt is an essential consideration. If you have a tight running form or are on the petite side of things, a more compact machine will do just fine.
On average, they come in at around 47-inches long. For those above 6 feet in height, opt for a longer belt.
Where width is concerned, the Sunny Health & Fitness machine ranks at the top with a whopping size of 20-inches wide.
Speed
This is another factor that boils down to your fitness level and desire. Are you just starting out? The average jogging speed is around four to 6 miles per hour, so you probably won’t be hitting above that.
If you’re looking to run at a top pace, you’ll want a machine that goes up to 9 or 10 miles per hour, the latter being the fastest you’ll find. This would put you in the sprinting category.
Our top pick overall, the Xterra Fitness TR150 treadmill, boasts a motor with 2.25HP and has a maximum speed of 9 miles per hour.
Storage
Most treadmills in this price range come with a folding option, but that doesn’t mean they’re all created equal. Some feature wheels for easy transportation and others require just one step to make it all happen.
If you’re tight on space, you’ll want a machine that folds down to a compact size. The SereneLife treadmill comes out on top here with its easy-to-use hydraulic system. It’s the smallest and lightest device on our list, as well.
Control Panel and Accessories
This is where you’ll find the most variation. Some treadmills will come with a basic control module with just a few buttons. Others can feature a more complex screen with a slew of customizable options.
Some of these include:
- Bluetooth connectivity.
- Stats and data collection.
- USB or headphone jack.
- Built-in speakers.
- Bookrack.
- Accessory holder.
- Branded applications.
Stick with what’s important for you and forget about the rest. If you’re looking for all the extras that you can find, the MaxKare treadmill will be your best bet. It features an easy-to-use backlit screen and 15 preset programs, among other features.
Weight Capacity
Most treadmills in this price range have a weight capacity somewhere between 200 and 250 pounds. If you’re on the heavier side, the ProForm 300i offers a maximum of 300 pounds.
Do keep in mind that if you’re above the highest limit, finding a machine for low-priced might be close to impossible.
Shock Absorption
Running or jogging isn’t the easiest sport on the joints. You know that feeling you get when doing it outside, where you feel every bump and crack under your feet? Running on a treadmill with some form of shock absorption can help with this issue.
If this has been a problem for you in the past, we recommend a machine with enough padding down below. The Xterra Fitness TR150 treadmill offers a proprietary XTRASoft cushioning within its deck for this very reason.
“Why Should I Buy a Treadmill?”
You might be wondering what happened to running outside or at the gym? We do hear you, but you can hear us out in return. The benefits of treadmills are numerous, so let’s remind you of them:
- Not constrained by certain times or weather conditions.
- Track your stats with ease.
- Comfort of home with no one around.
- No rushing to the gym or wasting time in traffic.
- Less distractions.
Have we sold you yet?
Final Verdict
The best thing about these machines is that they won’t stress your bank account, which could be demotivating. Instead, they’re reasonably-priced for most budgets and for that, we’re thankful.
This wasn’t an easy decision as the best budget treadmills all have something to offer. Whether you want a basic machine that helps you pick up a workout routine again or the most bang for your buck that’s suitable for sprints, it all exists.
Our top overall pick goes to the Xterra Fitness TR150. We appreciate that it offers shock absorption, has plenty of workout programs and is simple to store away. The 2.25HP motor and speed of 9 miles per hour provide enough power for most everyone.
However, our second runner-up also has its advantages, which is the ProForm 300i. For those in the higher weight range, it has a maximum capacity of 300 pounds. It also has a cushioned belt and automatic incline for convenience.
