The best treadmills for home use in 2024

Take your fitness to the next level with a treadmill ideal for home workouts.

Woman uses the best treadmills for home use

by Gemma Lavers |
Updated on

You're not alone if you've decided to take the plunge and buy one of the best treadmills for home use to escape the weather. But now there's a much better reason - high-tech excellence. Exercise gurus and couch potatoes are finding the treadmill ever more alluring - even treadmill desks are a hit.

As you'll have seen, the range of home treadmills is as dizzying as remarkable. There's a wealth of options to suit all budgets and uses. Firstly, it's important to stick to your budget with gym equipment like this, as it's especially tempting to overspend when faced with so many innovative high-end features. Secondly, you'll need to narrow the options to great models from reliable brands. That's where we come in.

The best treadmills for home use at a glance:

• Best overall treadmill: Branx Fitness 'LIMITED EDITION' Foldable StartRun Treadmill - View on Amazon.co.uk
• Best budget treadmill: Nero Sports - Electric Treadmill Foldable Motorized - View on Amazon.co.uk
• Best treadmill for regular runners: JTX Sprint-5 Home Treadmill - View on Jtxfitness.com
• Best interactive treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill - View on Sweatband.com

With so many treadmills, deciding what is right for you can be a little daunting. You might be looking for one to compliment your home multi-gym or one that will fit snugly into the corner of your lounge or bedroom. And a lot will depend on what kind of runner or walker you are, with varying levels of incline and speeds on offer. Therefore, sifting through all of the options can seem as exhausting as a full cross-trainer workout at times. But our experts are here to help.

We've collected everything you need to know to explain the best treadmill for home use, show you what to look for, and which features are important. There's a buyer's guide at the end of the article too. Below we've selected the very best treadmills for home use, from basic to folding, from budget to top-of-the-line smart treadmills. Let's get things running.

The best treadmills for home use in 2024:

Best treadmill for regular runners

Description

The JTX Sprint-5 Home Treadmill is designed with regular runners in mind, whether you're a beginner or training for a half marathon. This is great value for money, with a power incline and 18kph top speed. There are 43 pre-set programmes on this home treadmill, so you can keep your fitness constantly improving with different options, or, if you already know what you want, you can save up to three custom programmes to keep yourself on track.

In addition, Zwift & Kinomap connections are possible via Bluetooth. But the features of this treadmill don't stop there, as it can fold away with a hydraulic assist lift and Soft Drop system. There's also Cushionstep suspension - meaning an eight-point rubber shock absorption reducing impact by up to 30 per cent - and a silent motor will keep noise to a minimum. If you're reading this but already know that impact-heavy exercise isn't for you, we recommend one of the best exercise bikes instead. But if you're up for a sprint with some entertainment, you can play music on a newly integrated speaker system and there's an app tailor-made for the treadmill.

Pros

  • 43 pre-set programmes
  • Large LCD monitor
  • Connect to Zwift & Kinomap via Bluetooth
  • Cushionstep suspension

Cons

  • Only recommended for up to half-marathon runners
  • Limited incline

The best folding treadmill

Description

Your search for a great folding treadmill is over. The FLYLINKTECH Folding Treadmill is a class above the rest, with 15 degree incline, full LCD display and high-end bluetooth capability.

This beauty uses a super sturdy stainless steel frame, a dead silent force motor, a 110cm multi-layer running belt that absorbs shock, helping to reduce knee damage on those long runs.

With the FS Sports app, you can control the treadmill through Bluetooth. App control not only monitors your exercise data, but also keep your workouts fresh, enjoy a diverse range of programmes and difficulty levels and you'll never be bored.

Pros

  • The ideal folding treadmill
  • Lovely LCD display
  • Intuitive bluetooth

Cons

  • Somewhat simple in terms of advanced settings

Best overall treadmill

Description

Branx Fitness is a UK brand you may recognise. As such, their 5-year warranty on its motor and frame and 2-year warranty on parts and labour actually do mean something. This 'Limited Edition' treadmill is a cutting-edge fitness solution that seamlessly combines innovation with practicality. It's also a game-changer for those with limited space, as it boasts a foldable design that maximises your space without compromising on performance.

The Branx Fitness treadmill incorporates eight absorption points, an upgraded running belt and enhanced front and rear rollers for superior performance. Engineered to adapt to your own running style, the StartRun efficiently absorbs impact, safeguarding your joints and providing a more elastic response during sprints. Anyone who uses this machine regularly will work up quite a sweat, so grab that gym towel and get ready for the run of your life.

Pros

  • Foldable
  • Plenty of power
  • Excellent weight capacity
  • Good incline settings and cushioning

Cons

  • No touchscreen interface

Best value treadmill

Description

When it comes to value, what we don't mean is 'cheap'. Cheap treadmills can be found for £100 or less, but with machines like these, you need something that's safe, well-built and reliable that gives you the biggest bang for your buck. Enter the JLL S300. To start with, the UK brand gives you a five-year warranty on the ample 2.5 CHP motor, plus a two-year parts and labour warranty and a confidence-boosting lifetime warranty on the frame.

On the features front, you get a well-cushioned 122 x 41 cm running belt, which can range between 0.3 and 16km/h (10mph). A selection of 15 programmes gives you fairly good flexibility for workouts, helped by the fact three of them are customisable. On the deck, you will find a surprising array of goodies. No big screen, but there is a holder for your devices and a USB and aux connection. Why? Because the JLL S300 has built-in speakers, of course. The frame is alloy steel, and the maximum user weight is 120 kg.

Pros

  • Warranty
  • Quality construction
  • Foldable
  • Up to 20% incline

Cons

  • 122cm/41cm belt is not ideal for tall runners

Best budget treadmill

Description

If you're just starting out or need something that costs considerably less than £500, this treadmill from Nero Sports is hard to resist. It's taken the prize for our best budget treadmill for a number of reasons, not just the incredibly affordable price. Firstly, this is motorised and compact. So, if you're looking for something that you can put in the comfort of your own home and get the job done, this treadmill is for you.

The build, whilst not up to that of much more expensive models, is clean, simple and reliable. As you'd expect for a space-saving budget model, it has a relatively conservative 105 x 35 cm running surface, so if you're on the larger side with a longer stride, you may need to check the dimensions. There are three levels of incline, so if you're a seasoned runner, you probably want to look at other models on our list. But for anyone who needs a 12-program motorised treadmill with a computer that measures speed, time, distance and calories, this is the one to go for.

But the features don't stop there - not only does this Nero Sports treadmill come 99% pre-assembled, but it also has Bluetooth connectivity to KINOMAP and ZWIFT. So, put your tablet on the convenient stand and get ready for some seriously fun fitness routines.

Pros

  • Super value product
  • 12 programs
  • Pulse sensors
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Foldable

Cons

  • Limited incline settings
  • Running surface on the small side for those with longer strides

Best interactive treadmill

Description

If you desire a treadmill with integrated interactive training, then we suggest sticking with NordicTrack with the 1750 Treadmill. It gives you an upgrade on the S 25i hardware and also a big 14-inch screen and speakers from which you can follow your iFit training. So while the 1750 isn't the cheapest treadmill on the block, you do get more than just a colourful screen. It's also great value compared with far more expensive models.

The upgraded hardware means a 3.5 CHP motor and a bigger 152cm running space. Top speed and maximum user weight remain the same, as do the frame and motor warranties. With the 14-inch HD screen, you’ll be integrated with on-demand workouts led by rather intense-looking trainers.

Pros

  • DurX commercial motor
  • Exceptional build quality
  • HD touch screen
  • Large 55 x 152 Running Surface

Cons

  • 12% incline is good, but some might want more

Best no-assembly treadmill

Description

No set-up, no hassle, no stress. No need to even worry about installation issues. The portable treadmill comes fully assembled and can be used immediately after unboxing. Transport wheels mean that it's so convenient to move and store, which will only do wonders for freeing up some floor space.

Shining Bright is a multi-layer shock-absorptive running belt, which actually absorbs the force of your steps and works to protect your joints/ligaments from injury.

The Dskeuzeew Ultra Slim Walking Running Machine is super ideal for home use and storage. The value of money here is fantastic too, just take it easy the first few runs, as there is nothing to hold on to.

Pros

  • Absolutely no assembly required
  • Easy to store

Cons

  • Can cause an accident if you lose balance

Best walking pad treadmill

Description

The JTX MoveLight is a compact, lightweight walking treadmill designed for easy storage and convenience, perfect for home or office use to stay active throughout the day. At a great price, you're getting a seriously intuitive experience thanks to the high-tech remote control function. JTX does it best.

Pros

  • Best walking pad variant
  • Quiet operation
  • Intuitive remote control function

Cons

  • Not the most lightweight despite size

Best high-end treadmill

Description

Despite looking like a commercial treadmill and being built just as solidly, this is the best of the home-use machines we have here. Why? Because it's extremely well designed with top high-tech features such as automatically turning on when stepped on. Not to mention the true integration of the machine with tablets. Then there's access to Zwift and ROUVY routes for maximum immersion while you're running. A real bonus here, especially for those dodging the bad weather, is that it can use your personal route data from devices like a Garmin to reproduce that route for you.

Spec-wise, this has a 3.0 HP motor capable of 12.4 mph - so plenty of room there to challenge hardcore runners. The deck is a generous 19.7 x 56.3 inches too, so it's in that sweet spot between being usable for most stride lengths, at the same time as fitting into your room without hogging too much space. The Technogym App is also present for access to interactive training routines. Best of all, consider this a professional gym treadmill but slightly scaled down to fit a home gym perfectly - and all without compromising on build or features.

Pros

  • Commercial quality yet well suited to homes
  • Quiet operation
  • Auto-on when stepped onto
  • Reproduces your own real-life routes

Cons

  • Users with very long strides may find it a little limited
  • More technical features mean more complexity

Best treadmills for the home in 2024: Buyer's guide

Check under the hood

First and foremost, what’s underneath is most important. It might look like a Lamborghini on the outside, but it’s a waste of time and money if the running mechanics are cheap and nasty. For example, one indicator of a treadmill that's built to last is the continuous horsepower rating (CHP).

Treadmills that can hold a strong, consistent power output don't have to work as hard as those with less power. You should aim for a CHP of at least 2.5 if you plan on using it daily. And don’t mistake horsepower ratings for CHP either – the former likely indicates peak power, and if the treadmill you’re looking at doesn’t list CHP, you should be dubious about it.

Consider performance goals

Does a treadmill meet your standards as a runner and allow enough room for plenty of improvement? What speeds can it achieve? How loud is it? How much can it incline, or even decline? By the same token, what is shock absorption like to reduce the strain on joints? And of course, once you've answered all of these, it's important to invest in the best running shoes so that you can keep up in comfort.

Research belt speed and sizes

The general rule is the higher the speed, the higher the price. But when it comes to belt sizes, these are more important because taller and faster people will need a longer belt. For the tall and long striders, try to steer towards treadmills with belt sizes of around 152cm/60 inches. Consider weight limits too. Naturally, this is important for the machine to be able to take your weight, but the other thing it is indicative of is the quality of the frame.

Programme functions

More functions and large screens showing online workout sessions are what many people want. You can get a good range of programmes on entry-level machines, but of course, those who want an integrated screen should expect to pay more. One way around this is to simply use a tablet or mobile phone.

Don't buy then get bored

Running when you’re outside is plenty stimulating, but addressing boredom during an indoor treadmill run can be challenging. We aren’t all blessed with spare room views of the Carpathian Mountains or the Mediterranean Sea. There are a number of high and low-tech remedies to address the potential boredom that can curb our enthusiasm. You can put up posters in front of you to look at while you run, blast some music, or even connect with others with the Zwift app. And if you're already a fan of that app, you should probably check out some of the best Turbo Trainers for Zwift too.

Best treadmills for the home in 2024: Frequently asked questions

How do I maintain a treadmill?

As with all home gym equipment, your first port of call should be the user manual. The build and maintenance of a treadmill will vary from one brand to another, and one model to another too. Obviously, keeping the machine clean and free from debris and anything that could become entangled is a good idea. But one of the user-serviceable pieces of maintenance you can look into is lubrication.

Predictably, this is a very simple yet important part of treadmill maintenance. Therefore, JLL and NordicTrack provide instructions on how to best lubricate their treadmills. JLL also have a handy general treadmill maintenance video on YouTube with useful tips (lubrication is at 1 min 35).

Here's our pick of a good lubricant that's easy to apply to hard-to-reach areas.

Spot On Silicone Treadmill Belt Lubricant
Price: $12.95
Alternative retailers
Walmart$12.95View offer

Description

Achieve smooth, silent treadmill function with Spot On 100% Silicone Treadmill Belt Lubricant. This 120ml formula reduces friction, prolongs belt life, and optimises overall machine performance.

Pros

  • Easy to apply to hard-to-reach areas
  • Precision cap

Cons

  • None we can think of!

What's the best way to workout on a treadmill?

At least initially, it’s good to have a set workout regime. Understandably, most beginners often don’t know where their benchmarks sit, or where to begin, and have to battle the mental wall that hinders persistence.

Finding yourself a suitable workout schedule helps you stick to your ability (which is not the same as pushing yourself). This, therefore, makes your workouts far more enjoyable. There are numerous fitness apps and online resources available. Also, apps include the Nike Run Club app and two of the above NordicTrack treadmills use iFit. However, there are countless others available online that a quick internet search will give you.

Are treadmills safe?

As long as they're well maintained and periodically checked for mechanical or software issues, a treadmill for home use is as safe as you are when you use it. Therefore, consider where you place your treadmill - make sure that there's nothing placed close by that would be dangerous if you were to fall off. If you're put off by the moving belt, perhaps consider one of the best stepper machines instead for a more stationary challenge.

Gemma Lavers is a Health & Fitness writer for What's The Best. When she’s not travelling or writing, Gemma loves spending her weekend completing home workouts, or attending yoga, Pilates or Zumba classes.

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