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With a budget of $500, you may think that it will be difficult to find the best treadmills for running, with incline, or that can fold in half and fit under your couch — seriously. With high-end treadmills routinely coming in over $2,000, we understand your hesitance. Well, we started pinching our pennies and tested out the best...
The post 7 Best Treadmills Under $500 of 2024 appeared first on BarBend.
With a budget of $500, you may think that it will be difficult to find the best treadmills for running, with incline, or that can fold in half and fit under your couch — seriously. With high-end treadmills routinely coming in over $2,000, we understand your hesitance. Well, we started pinching our pennies and tested out the best treadmills under $500 that pack in the features you need for at the price your bank account needs.
Whether you are short on space, want to sneak in some cardio at your standing desk, or are training for a 5k, we have options for you. The treadmills we chose offer capabilities that you will see on much more expensive machines, but for under $500. Our testing team of fitness professionals knows treadmills and has the know-how to find quality options that can help you meet your fitness goals. Here are our picks for the best treadmills under $500.
7 Best Treadmills Under $500 of 2024
How We Tested the Best Treadmills Under $500
The testing team who used these machines has years of experience in the fitness industry — specifically with treadmills. We’ve tested more than 40 treadmills that run the gamut in terms of both budget and luxury, so we know a solid machine when we see one. Each of the picks on our list has gone through our 13-point testing methodology that encompasses factors like footprint and portability, durability, adjustability and ergonomics, and workout experience. Every treadmill we tested received a 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) rating in each category.
Our team is made up of certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, CrossFit trainers, and even USA Weightlifting coaches. After pounding the treads, experimenting with the displays, and maxing out the incline capabilities, they amassed their notes and provided their expert input on what works about these budget treadmills and what doesn’t. Hopefully, their insight can help you find the treadmill under $500 for your needs.
Best Overall Treadmill Under $500: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400
Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill
Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill
This machine offers speeds up to 9mph, and three manual incline levels (0 percent, two percent, and 4.37 percent). There’s a console that includes nine built-in workout programs with a large LCD display, and this tread provides a tablet holder for streaming fitness classes.
Shop Amazon
Specs
Pros
Cons
The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 is our best overall treadmill under $500 because it’s got many features you’ll find in pricier models, but for roughly $600 to $1,500 less than their average cost. The 4.3 percent incline, speed-adjust buttons embedded in the handrail, alloy steel frame, and 2.2 peak horsepower motor are all notable features of this well-rounded (and inexpensive) treadmill.
At 62 inches long by 25.5 inches wide, it has a much smaller footprint than a popular model like the ProForm Pro 9000, which measures 77.3 inches long by 35.3 inches wide. This makes it a good option for those planning to use it in small spaces, like an apartment or garage. That said, its compact frame does result in a shorter deck, which can feel crowded for those with longer strides. The SF-T4400’s deck measures 49 inches in length, about 6 inches less than the average and 11 inches shorter than what we’d recommend on a treadmill designed for running.
When folded upright, the 62-inch length shrinks to just 36 inches. Its built-in wheels and weight of 103 pounds — roughly half that of the average treadmill — ease the burden during transport. Use the soft drop hydraulic system for assistance when unfolding to protect your floors — and your pets — when lowering the deck. “The soft drop feature was actually very helpful,” our tester said. “Just give it a tap and it basically lowers itself.”
While you won’t find interactive programming capabilities like you would on treadmills with IFIT, it does include nine built-in workout programs. Our tester — a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach — rated their overall workout experience a 4 out of 5. “I think an experienced runner trying to do some serious training would be disappointed,” they said. “But for someone just trying to stay active and get more cardio in, this would be a good fit.”
Speaking to its durability, which they rated a 3 out of 5, they said, “In addition to the steel frame, I saw a decent amount of plastic.” It has a weight capacity of 220 pounds, which is on par with most budget treadmills. High-end machines, on the other hand, can typically support between 300 and 350 pounds.
Best Under-Desk Treadmill Under $500: LifePro Fitness PacerMini Portable Treadmill
LifePro Fitness PacerMini Portable Treadmill
LifePro Fitness PacerMini Portable Treadmill
The LifePro Fitness PacerMini Portable Treadmill is a compact, under-deck treadmill with a fixed 7-percent incline — rare for an under-desk treadmill. At just 7 inches tall and 40 pounds, it can easily fit under a desk. During use, adjust the speed with the remote control to avoid reaching down to the panel.
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Specs
Pros
Cons
The best under-desk treadmills can add a little extra cardio to your day by allowing you to walk when you would otherwise be sitting. The LifePro Fitness PacerMini Portable Treadmill stands out from its competitors because its 7 percent fixed incline is a rare inclusion for an under-desk treadmill. Other popular under-desk treadmills, like the WalkingPad P1 or UREVO 2-in-1 Under-Desk Treadmill, have no incline capability.
Adding that 7 percent incline to your walk provides an additional challenge that can burn a few more calories while you work.“The fixed incline is a huge plus for me,” our tester said, scoring their workout experience 3.5 out of 5. Walking at the max speed of 3 miles per hour would be a brisk walk, especially while working at a desk. “3 miles per hour sounds slow,” our tester added, “but I’d be afraid to go much faster on the incline.”
The incline is impressive given its compactness — it measures just 7 inches tall, 32 inches long, and 25 inches wide. Its length is about 20 inches shorter than the average under-desk treadmill and 40 inches less than a typical treadmill, which helped its footprint and portability earn a 3.5 out of 5 score from our tester. “With it being so small and just 40 pounds, most people could move it by themselves,” they said.
A drawback of that small footprint is a reduced walking surface. It would be difficult to manage anything more than a walking stride on the 27.6-inch-long deck — which is roughly 20 inches shorter than the deck on the WalkingPad P1 and 28 inches shorter than what you’ll find on the average treadmill.
With such little real estate, it’s probably not a surprise it’s missing conveniences — scoring a 1 out of 5 from our tester — like a device holder or fan. “I don’t think this machine would be for everyone,” they said. “It doesn’t have any smart features or anything, but an incline under-desk treadmill is unique.”
One convenient feature it does include is the remote control to adjust your speed. This can prevent you from having to awkwardly reach down to the display to make adjustments. For an under-desk treadmill less than $500, we think the incline and miniscule footprint make it a good option for people who want a little more of a challenge than just walking on a flat surface while working.
Best Treadmill Under $500 for Walking: WalkingPad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill
Walking Pad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill
Walking Pad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill
The Walking Pad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill is a compact, foldable treadmill that can be stored under a bed or couch. It features a 47.24-inch deck, 3.75 mile-per-hour max speed, and its unique Foot Speed Control mode lets you adjust your speed by walking on different areas of the deck.
Shop WalkingPad
Specs
Pros
Cons
The WalkingPad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill distinguishes itself from other walking treadmills with its unique Foot Speed Control feature. This allows you to adjust your speed by changing your position on the belt. “In this mode, you can walk in the front third of the belt to speed up, the middle to remain constant, and the rear to slow down,” our tester — a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach — explained. “I liked using this mode, but also appreciated that I could just control the speed with the remote.”
Another unique feature is how it folds. Most foldable treadmills raise the deck upright or lower the handlebar flat, but this machine folds completely in half. When folded, its length is reduced from 56.37 inches to just 32.5 inches, which makes storage much easier.
Unfolded, it features a 47.24-inch belt deck, which is roughly 8 to 13 inches shorter than the standard 55- to 60-inch deck on an average treadmill. That’s impressive for a compact unit designed for walking.
The WalkingPad P1, our product tester’s home treadmill.
Our tester knocked its durability down to 3 out of 5 because of its unimpressive 1-year warranty, but did point out the treadmill’s maximum user capacity of 220 pounds. “My husband weighs around 200 pounds,” our tester said, “and he said that it felt no less steady than he did on higher-end machines.”
One notable absence is the lack of incline capability. Incline walking can boost the intensity of walking workouts, but the design of this machine doesn’t allow for it. “The only thing you can really adjust is the speed,” our tester pointed out, rating the adjustability and ergonomics a 3 out of 5.
The lack of tech capabilities like a Bluetooth speaker or a display also earned a 3 out of 5 rating, but the overall value came in at 3.5 out of 5. “Without its two unique features — folding completely in half and the Foot Speed Control — I might say it’s pretty standard,” they said. “However, after walking on it almost daily for a year and half, I definitely think it was worth the money.”
Best Treadmill Under $500 for Small Spaces: UREVO 2-in-1 Under-Desk Treadmill
UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill
UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill
This flat treadmill easily fits under a desk and can slide under a bed or a couch when not in use. It has a maximum speed of 7.6 miles per hour, as well as silicone shock absorbers and two soft rubber pads to keep your joints healthy. Plus, it comes with a remote control that you can use to adjust your speed, so you don’t have to get off the treadmill to speed up or slow down.
Shop Amazon
Specs
Pros
Cons
At 54.7 inches long, the UREVO 2-in-1 Under-Desk Treadmill is roughly 6 to 26 inches shorter than the average treadmill, but it’s the unit’s versatility that makes it so ideal for small spaces. By folding its handlebar down, its height reduces from 39.7 inches to just 5 inches, allowing it to operate as both a traditional treadmill and an under-desk cardio machine.
With the handlebar up, the 2.25 horsepower motor can reach a max speed 7.6 miles per hour. When it’s down flat, it is essentially a walking pad — like the WalkingPad P1 — so the max speed is capped at 3.8 miles per hour.
Our product tester folding the handlebar on the UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill.
It will only require ten square feet of space and, at only 59 pounds, it’s easy to move from your gym to the office and back again. And when you’re done? It’s compact enough to fit under some couches and beds. Our tester, who rated its footprint and portability...
Click here to view the article.
The post 7 Best Treadmills Under $500 of 2024 appeared first on BarBend.
With a budget of $500, you may think that it will be difficult to find the best treadmills for running, with incline, or that can fold in half and fit under your couch — seriously. With high-end treadmills routinely coming in over $2,000, we understand your hesitance. Well, we started pinching our pennies and tested out the best treadmills under $500 that pack in the features you need for at the price your bank account needs.
Whether you are short on space, want to sneak in some cardio at your standing desk, or are training for a 5k, we have options for you. The treadmills we chose offer capabilities that you will see on much more expensive machines, but for under $500. Our testing team of fitness professionals knows treadmills and has the know-how to find quality options that can help you meet your fitness goals. Here are our picks for the best treadmills under $500.
7 Best Treadmills Under $500 of 2024
- Best Overall Treadmill Under $500: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill Under $500: LifePro Fitness PacerMini Portable Treadmill
- Best Treadmill Under $500 for Walking: Walking Pad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill
- Best Treadmill Under $500 for Small Spaces: UREVO 2-in-1 Under-Desk Treadmill
- Best Incline Treadmill Under $500: Egofit Walker Pro
- Best Treadmill Under $500 for Running: XTERRA TR150 Treadmill
- Best Folding Treadmill Under $500: Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
How We Tested the Best Treadmills Under $500
The testing team who used these machines has years of experience in the fitness industry — specifically with treadmills. We’ve tested more than 40 treadmills that run the gamut in terms of both budget and luxury, so we know a solid machine when we see one. Each of the picks on our list has gone through our 13-point testing methodology that encompasses factors like footprint and portability, durability, adjustability and ergonomics, and workout experience. Every treadmill we tested received a 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) rating in each category.
Our team is made up of certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, CrossFit trainers, and even USA Weightlifting coaches. After pounding the treads, experimenting with the displays, and maxing out the incline capabilities, they amassed their notes and provided their expert input on what works about these budget treadmills and what doesn’t. Hopefully, their insight can help you find the treadmill under $500 for your needs.
Best Overall Treadmill Under $500: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400
Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill
Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Treadmill
This machine offers speeds up to 9mph, and three manual incline levels (0 percent, two percent, and 4.37 percent). There’s a console that includes nine built-in workout programs with a large LCD display, and this tread provides a tablet holder for streaming fitness classes.
Shop Amazon
Specs
- Price: $385
- Incline Range: 0%-4.3%
- Max Speed: 9mph
- Max User Capacity: 220lbs
- Dimensions: 50? H x 62? L x 25.5? W
- Weight: 103lbs
Pros
- This budget treadmill is a good option for casual runners with a max speed of 9 miles per hour and a 4.3 percent incline.
- You can adjust the speed via buttons built into the handrails.
- At 62 inches in length, this space-saving machine is up to 20 inches shorter than most treadmills.
Cons
- The 49-inch deck — about 6 inches shorter than the average treadmill — may be too short for those with longer strides.
- Despite its steel frame, there is a good amount of plastic in the build that could impact its long-term durability.
The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400 is our best overall treadmill under $500 because it’s got many features you’ll find in pricier models, but for roughly $600 to $1,500 less than their average cost. The 4.3 percent incline, speed-adjust buttons embedded in the handrail, alloy steel frame, and 2.2 peak horsepower motor are all notable features of this well-rounded (and inexpensive) treadmill.
At 62 inches long by 25.5 inches wide, it has a much smaller footprint than a popular model like the ProForm Pro 9000, which measures 77.3 inches long by 35.3 inches wide. This makes it a good option for those planning to use it in small spaces, like an apartment or garage. That said, its compact frame does result in a shorter deck, which can feel crowded for those with longer strides. The SF-T4400’s deck measures 49 inches in length, about 6 inches less than the average and 11 inches shorter than what we’d recommend on a treadmill designed for running.
When folded upright, the 62-inch length shrinks to just 36 inches. Its built-in wheels and weight of 103 pounds — roughly half that of the average treadmill — ease the burden during transport. Use the soft drop hydraulic system for assistance when unfolding to protect your floors — and your pets — when lowering the deck. “The soft drop feature was actually very helpful,” our tester said. “Just give it a tap and it basically lowers itself.”
While you won’t find interactive programming capabilities like you would on treadmills with IFIT, it does include nine built-in workout programs. Our tester — a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach — rated their overall workout experience a 4 out of 5. “I think an experienced runner trying to do some serious training would be disappointed,” they said. “But for someone just trying to stay active and get more cardio in, this would be a good fit.”
Speaking to its durability, which they rated a 3 out of 5, they said, “In addition to the steel frame, I saw a decent amount of plastic.” It has a weight capacity of 220 pounds, which is on par with most budget treadmills. High-end machines, on the other hand, can typically support between 300 and 350 pounds.
Best Under-Desk Treadmill Under $500: LifePro Fitness PacerMini Portable Treadmill
LifePro Fitness PacerMini Portable Treadmill
LifePro Fitness PacerMini Portable Treadmill
The LifePro Fitness PacerMini Portable Treadmill is a compact, under-deck treadmill with a fixed 7-percent incline — rare for an under-desk treadmill. At just 7 inches tall and 40 pounds, it can easily fit under a desk. During use, adjust the speed with the remote control to avoid reaching down to the panel.
Shop LifePro
Specs
- Price: $350
- Dimensions: 7” H x 32.7” L x 25” W
- Weight: 40lbs
- Max User Capacity: 220lbs
- Incline Range: Fixed 7%
- Max Speed: 3mph
Pros
- The fixed 7 percent incline is rare to see in an under-desk treadmill.
- At just 7 inches tall and 40 pounds, it can easily fit under a desk.
- Adjust the speed with the remote control to avoid reaching down to the panel.
Cons
- The walking surface is very small — just 27.6 inches long by 15.7 inches wide — compared to the average under-desk treadmill.
- There are virtually no conveniences like a device holder, fan, or smart features.
The best under-desk treadmills can add a little extra cardio to your day by allowing you to walk when you would otherwise be sitting. The LifePro Fitness PacerMini Portable Treadmill stands out from its competitors because its 7 percent fixed incline is a rare inclusion for an under-desk treadmill. Other popular under-desk treadmills, like the WalkingPad P1 or UREVO 2-in-1 Under-Desk Treadmill, have no incline capability.
Adding that 7 percent incline to your walk provides an additional challenge that can burn a few more calories while you work.“The fixed incline is a huge plus for me,” our tester said, scoring their workout experience 3.5 out of 5. Walking at the max speed of 3 miles per hour would be a brisk walk, especially while working at a desk. “3 miles per hour sounds slow,” our tester added, “but I’d be afraid to go much faster on the incline.”
The incline is impressive given its compactness — it measures just 7 inches tall, 32 inches long, and 25 inches wide. Its length is about 20 inches shorter than the average under-desk treadmill and 40 inches less than a typical treadmill, which helped its footprint and portability earn a 3.5 out of 5 score from our tester. “With it being so small and just 40 pounds, most people could move it by themselves,” they said.
A drawback of that small footprint is a reduced walking surface. It would be difficult to manage anything more than a walking stride on the 27.6-inch-long deck — which is roughly 20 inches shorter than the deck on the WalkingPad P1 and 28 inches shorter than what you’ll find on the average treadmill.
With such little real estate, it’s probably not a surprise it’s missing conveniences — scoring a 1 out of 5 from our tester — like a device holder or fan. “I don’t think this machine would be for everyone,” they said. “It doesn’t have any smart features or anything, but an incline under-desk treadmill is unique.”
One convenient feature it does include is the remote control to adjust your speed. This can prevent you from having to awkwardly reach down to the display to make adjustments. For an under-desk treadmill less than $500, we think the incline and miniscule footprint make it a good option for people who want a little more of a challenge than just walking on a flat surface while working.
Best Treadmill Under $500 for Walking: WalkingPad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill
Walking Pad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill
Walking Pad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill
The Walking Pad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill is a compact, foldable treadmill that can be stored under a bed or couch. It features a 47.24-inch deck, 3.75 mile-per-hour max speed, and its unique Foot Speed Control mode lets you adjust your speed by walking on different areas of the deck.
Shop WalkingPad
Specs
- Price: $499
- Dimensions: 5” H x 56.37” L x 21.5” W
- Weight: 62lbs
- Max User Capacity: 220lbs
- Incline Range: none
- Max Speed: 3.75mph
Pros
- Its Foot Speed Control mode lets you adjust your speed by walking on different areas of the deck.
- The 47.24-inch belt deck is roughly 5 to 20 inches longer than what you’ll find on other walking treadmills we’ve tested.
- Unlike most treadmills, this unit folds completely in half for easy storage.
Cons
- It has no incline capability.
- It lacks notable tech features, such as Bluetooth speakers or a heart rate sensor.
The WalkingPad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill distinguishes itself from other walking treadmills with its unique Foot Speed Control feature. This allows you to adjust your speed by changing your position on the belt. “In this mode, you can walk in the front third of the belt to speed up, the middle to remain constant, and the rear to slow down,” our tester — a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach — explained. “I liked using this mode, but also appreciated that I could just control the speed with the remote.”
Another unique feature is how it folds. Most foldable treadmills raise the deck upright or lower the handlebar flat, but this machine folds completely in half. When folded, its length is reduced from 56.37 inches to just 32.5 inches, which makes storage much easier.
Unfolded, it features a 47.24-inch belt deck, which is roughly 8 to 13 inches shorter than the standard 55- to 60-inch deck on an average treadmill. That’s impressive for a compact unit designed for walking.
Our tester knocked its durability down to 3 out of 5 because of its unimpressive 1-year warranty, but did point out the treadmill’s maximum user capacity of 220 pounds. “My husband weighs around 200 pounds,” our tester said, “and he said that it felt no less steady than he did on higher-end machines.”
One notable absence is the lack of incline capability. Incline walking can boost the intensity of walking workouts, but the design of this machine doesn’t allow for it. “The only thing you can really adjust is the speed,” our tester pointed out, rating the adjustability and ergonomics a 3 out of 5.
The lack of tech capabilities like a Bluetooth speaker or a display also earned a 3 out of 5 rating, but the overall value came in at 3.5 out of 5. “Without its two unique features — folding completely in half and the Foot Speed Control — I might say it’s pretty standard,” they said. “However, after walking on it almost daily for a year and half, I definitely think it was worth the money.”
Best Treadmill Under $500 for Small Spaces: UREVO 2-in-1 Under-Desk Treadmill
UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill
UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill
This flat treadmill easily fits under a desk and can slide under a bed or a couch when not in use. It has a maximum speed of 7.6 miles per hour, as well as silicone shock absorbers and two soft rubber pads to keep your joints healthy. Plus, it comes with a remote control that you can use to adjust your speed, so you don’t have to get off the treadmill to speed up or slow down.
Shop Amazon
Specs
- Price: $389
- Dimensions: With handrail down: 5.1” H x 54.7” L x 26.4? W; with handrail up: 39.7? H x 52.6? L x 26.4? W
- Weight: 59lbs
- Max User Capacity: 265lbs
- Incline Range: None
- Max Speed: With handrail down: 3.8mph; with handrail up: 7.6mph
Pros
- This compact treadmill takes up just ten square feet of space.
- It has a foldable handlebar that allows it to function as both a traditional treadmill and an under-desk cardio machine.
- At 59 pounds, it’s easy to transport from the gym to the office and back again.
Cons
- This treadmill is best suited for walking and jogging, not running.
- The 42.5-inch long deck may be too short to accommodate the strides of some users.
- It has no incline capabilities.
At 54.7 inches long, the UREVO 2-in-1 Under-Desk Treadmill is roughly 6 to 26 inches shorter than the average treadmill, but it’s the unit’s versatility that makes it so ideal for small spaces. By folding its handlebar down, its height reduces from 39.7 inches to just 5 inches, allowing it to operate as both a traditional treadmill and an under-desk cardio machine.
With the handlebar up, the 2.25 horsepower motor can reach a max speed 7.6 miles per hour. When it’s down flat, it is essentially a walking pad — like the WalkingPad P1 — so the max speed is capped at 3.8 miles per hour.
It will only require ten square feet of space and, at only 59 pounds, it’s easy to move from your gym to the office and back again. And when you’re done? It’s compact enough to fit under some couches and beds. Our tester, who rated its footprint and portability...
Click here to view the article.
