10 Best Treadmills

Some of the positive features include 23 built-in programs, heart-rate programs with an included chest strap, an incline/decline ranging from -2% to 15%, 350 pound weight capacity, and a 22-inch wide belt. At 56 inches long the running surface will satisfy most people, but may be a tick short for really tall people.

The lone drawback of the TRM 445 may be the lack of technology in the console. It has a 7-inch display for workout data, but it does not have any internet functionality, nor is it iFit compatible. There is a tablet holder, however, if you like to browse the web while running.

You should buy the Precor TRM 445 if you are a serious runner who wants years of trouble-free use and don’t have a need for any iFit or similar capabilities.

It is also available at Precor.com.

Features of the True Performance 300 include a 3hp motor, 350 pound weight capacity, 15% incline, and a 60 x 21 inch running surface. It has 13 preset programs including heart-rate monitoring ones, but the console does not have any web-related interfaces like iFit.

Buyers should consider the True Performance 300 if they are a hardcore runner, but want to save some money over the top-rated Precor model.

The TRM 223 has a basic black console without any unnecessary buttons or options – just what you need to get going fast. It comes with touch sensors or wireless heart rate monitoring, 10 preset workouts, a 57″ x 20″ running surface, and max incline of 15%.

One negative is that it only has a 57-inch long running surface. While that should accommodate most everyone, it might not be long enough for really tall people which is a bit disappointing on a model that costs almost $3000.

The Precor TRM223 is a good choice for anyone who just wants a simple, gym-quality machine with an excellent cushioning system.

It is also available at Precor.com.

The Go console provides a basic blue LCD with workout metrics and 12 programs. The Track Connect console lets you connect your mobile devices via Bluetooth for real-time tracking via compatible apps while also providing a display for workout metrics and 16 workouts. The difference in price just doesn’t seem worth it to us, so we recommend sticking with the Go Console. If you want tracking capabilities there are other models that do as good or better for less money.

Life Fitness is big in the commercial gym world, but not as well known for their consumer products. There is no doubt this machine is well-built, but it may be a tad overpriced for what you actually get. Features include 350 pound capacity, 3 hp motor, 12% max incline, and a chest strap heart rate monitor. One negative is that the max speed is only 10 mph which is fine for most people, but not for athletes who want to truly push themselves.

It is also available at Amazon.com.

The Pro 9000 comes with a 4.25 hp motor, 60 x 22 inch running surface, -3% to 15% incline, and 40 built-in programs. The console uses a 10-inch smart HD touchscreen display for iFit workouts, which you have to subscribe to to take advantage of.

We feel the ProForm Pro 9000 is a good choice for a moderate runner who wants a large variety of workout programs.

What we really like is the console, controls, and Bluetooth connectivity. The console has a 9-inch LCD screen with a ‘burn’ meter which shows you how many calories you are burning currently. All the buttons are simple one-touch buttons including 11 simple ‘Push and Go’ workout programs. With the Bluetooth connectivity you can track and monitor your progress with the free Bowflex Results Series app or sync with the free RunSocial app.

A three-speed fan and integrated speaker system round out the features.

While maybe not quite the construction quality of top-tier models, the Bowflex BXT216 is a great buy in this price range – especially since there is no subscription services you need to take advantage of all the features.

The motor is above average, construction quality is good, and it has a nice cushioning system. It is maybe a tad bit noisy, but comparable to other models in this price range.

The Pro 2000 has a 60″ x 22″ running surface, 32 built in workouts, and comes with a wireless chest strap and 2 hand grip heart rate monitors built into the handlebars. One feature it does have that very few budget models have is a 3% decline in addition to a 15% incline. It comes with a fan and sound system that are slightly better than other budget models, but still are not the great.

We recommend the ProForm Pro 2000 for anyone looking for the best value for the money or the best treadmill in the $1000-$1500 range.

It is also available at Walmart.com.

The construction quality is great and provides sturdy performance for runners. While the motor is adequate, it is not superior to other models in this price range. One area that is impressive is the noise level. It is really quiet and has a smooth operation.

One cause for concern is the controls. They are not as responsive as we would like.

The warranty is really great and among the best you will find for any treadmill in this price range. The motor, deck, and frame are all covered for life. Electronics, belts and rollers get 5 years of coverage, while labor gets two years.

It is also available at Amazon.

The BXT116 has the virtually the same console and connectivity which we really like, but it only has 9 built-in programs.

Overall we recommend the Bowflex BXT116 for the average user, not someone who will be training for marathons – for that you should spend more money for a top-tier treadmill that can withstand plenty of abuse.

The 80i comes with a 3hp motor, 11 mph max speed, and a 15% incline. On the downside the running surface is a bit narrow at just 18.5″ wide by 58″ long and there are only 8 built-in workout programs.

Overall the 3G Cardio 80i is not superior to other treadmills in any one area, but not really lacking any important features either. If you need a space-saving design then then we would recommend buying this one.