10 Best Home Treadmill for Weight Loss of 2022

List of the Best Home Treadmill for Weight Loss: It’s difficult to imagine a more crucial fitness device than the treadmill. The treadmill, which was invented by the Ancient Romans to help them lift heavy objects, has been used in societies throughout history as a form of both working and punishment.

Top Pick

Horizon Fitness 7.8 AT

• Motor: 4.0 CHP
• Speed: 0 to 12mph
• Incline: 0% to 15% (Motorized)
• Belt: 22” x 60”
• Folding: Yes
• Features: FeatherLight folding system, 3-Zone Variable Response cushioning, accessory Tray, aluminum side rails, 9.3” TFT display screen, audio jacks, USB charging port, Bluetooth speakers, cooling fan, multi-position tablet media shelf, built-in workout programs, 350lb weight capacity

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However, by the 20th Century, treadmills were being developed for use in fitness. The first home treadmill – the PaceMaster 600 – was designed by William Staub and released in the late 1960s.

Since then – with full HD screens, Bluetooth speakers, internet connectivity and motorized incline – the look may have changed, but the fundamentals remain the same.

In today’s article, we will run you through the best Home Treadmill for Weight Loss on the market, spanning all price ranges. We have highlighted both cheap and high-end treadmills; manual and motorized treadmills; as well as treadmills for runners, walkers and seniors.

Top 10 Best Home Treadmill for Weight Loss

There’s plenty of information, advice, and a packed FAQ section offering answers to your burning questions. If you are in the market for a new treadmill, you’re in the right place!

• Motor: 4.0 CHP
• Speed: 0 to 12mph
• Incline: 0% to 15% (Motorized)
• Belt: 22” x 60”
• Folding: Yes
• Features: FeatherLight folding system, 3-Zone Variable Response cushioning, accessory Tray, aluminum side rails, 9.3” TFT display screen, audio jacks, USB charging port, Bluetooth speakers, cooling fan, multi-position tablet media shelf, built-in workout programs, 350lb weight capacity

There are a lot of treadmills on the market that claim to be the best, but when you examine the performance, features, and overall price of the Horizon Fitness 7.8 AT, it’s simple to understand why we think it’s the best.

This high-end treadmill features a strong 4.0 CHP engine and a 500lb thrust incline motor for a smooth, silent, and responsive workout, with top speeds of 12mph and an incline of up to 15%. The 22″ x 60″ belt provides plenty of room for runners, and the 3-Zone Variable Response cushioning keeps you comfy.

You’ll find everything you need for entertainment and fitness aid at the top of the page. You may put yourself to the test with numerous training routines and a 9.3″ TFT display screen surrounded by Bluetooth speakers and a USB charging connector.

• Motor: 4.0 CHP
• Speed: 0 to 12mph
• Incline: 0% to 15% (Motorized)
• Belt: 22” x 60”
• Folding: Yes
• Features: FeatherLight folding system, 3-Zone Variable Response cushioning, accessory Tray, aluminum side rails, 9.3” TFT display screen, audio jacks, USB charging port, Bluetooth speakers, cooling fan, multi-position tablet media shelf, built-in workout programs, 350lb weight capacity

The Elite Runner from 3G Cardio is a great illustration of the quality and performance that a high-end home treadmill can provide. Of course, such performance requires a significant financial investment, but it is worthwhile if you value running at home.

Performance is the word of the game here, with a powerful 4.0 HP motor capable of reaching 12 mph – ideal for the fastest runners. A large enormous 22″ x 62″ Orthopedic running belt with an Ortho Flex Shock suspension system is also a priority.

A practical (if a little simple) control panel with LED panels, a multi-speed fan, built-in speakers, and numerous preset programs to challenge you, whatever your skill level, can be found at the upper end.

• Motor: None
• Speed: Unlimited
• Incline: None
• Belt: 17” x 62.2”
• Folding: No
• Features: Curved deck, durable slat belt, easily-readable large LCD screen, preset workout programs (target, interval, heart rate), Bluetooth connectivity, lightweight design.

The next item on this list is a high-end manual treadmill designed for serious runners. The AirRunner from Assault Fitness may lack some of the high-end amenities seen on others, but it makes up for it in sheer performance!

Despite its high price, this professional gym-grade treadmill allows you to go as hard and fast as you like, with no maximum speed and natural acceleration. It has a quality steel frame with a curved slat belt that is 62.2″ long and has a 150,000-mile durability rating.

A basic but effective console offers a selection of preset routines, while heart rate monitoring can be controlled via Bluetooth, as we highlight in our full review of the AirRunner. This is an excellent choice for dedicated sportsmen.

• Motor: 3.6 CHP
• Speed: 0 to 12mph
• Incline: 0% to 12% (Motorized)
• Belt: 20” x 60”
• Folding: Yes
• Features: SpaceSaver design, FlexSelect cushioning, EasyLift Assist, 14” Smart HD touchscreen, integrated speakers, Bluetooth audio connectivity, iFit compatible (free one-year membership), heart rate monitor, 300lb weight capacity.

It’s no surprise that the T 9.5 S is so popular; it combines NordicTrack’s legendary craftsmanship with a slew of goodies that make it feel well worth the asking price.

The T 9.5 S starts with the basics: a big 20″ x 60″ running belt, plush FlexSelect cushioning, and a powerful 3.6 CHP DurX motor. This allows you to go up to 12 mph and have a 12 percent incline. Do you want to do some hill sprints? You have that option with the T 9.5 S.

The iFit virtual training system, which is wonderfully shown on the 14″ HD panel, allows you to train anywhere in the globe, so that hill may as well be in the Himalayas. This system has a built-in speed controller.

• Motor: 3.0 CHP
• Speed: 0.5 to 12mph
• Incline: 0% to 15% (Motorized)
• Belt: 20” x 60”
• Folding: Yes
• Features: 3-Zone Variable Response cushioning, FeatherLight folding system, 7” LCD display, Bluetooth speakers, QuickDial controls, media shelf, pulse-grip heart rate monitors, preset workout programs, cooling fan, 325lb max capacity.

We couldn’t decide between the T303 and the 7.0, both from Horizon Fitness, for this chart, however, the 7.0 gleamed a little brighter. It’s the most affordable model of Horizon’s higher-end Studio Series, and it’ll appeal to enthusiastic cardio athletes looking to avoid spending more than $1,000.

The QuickDial controls, which let you to change speed and elevation in a moment and are great for HIIT, are one of the most significant upgrades to the 7.0. A powerful 3.0 CHP motor drives everything, with a top speed of 12 mph and a maximum incline of 15%.

The 7.0 comes loaded with some great technology, including a 7″ LCD screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB charging capabilities, as you’d expect from a Horizon Fitness treadmill.

• Motor: 3.0 CHP
• Speed: 0.5 to 12mph
• Incline: 0% to 15% (Motorized)
• Belt: 20” x 60”
• Folding: Yes
• Features: 3-Zone Variable Response cushioning, FeatherLight folding system, 7” LCD display, Bluetooth speakers, QuickDial controls, media shelf, pulse-grip heart rate monitors, preset workout programs, cooling fan, 325lb max capacity.

The Schwinn 810 treadmill is a budget-friendly treadmill with features that make it stand out in its price range. It includes built-in speakers, USB charging, and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as everything else you’d expect from a modern home treadmill.

You can use these capabilities to connect to the Explore The World app and do some virtual running to spice up your sessions. However, beneath these appealing multimedia features, you’ll find plenty of power and convenience for the money.

The 810 features a 2.6 CHP motor with a top speed of 10 mph and the capacity to tilt up to 10%. Meanwhile, when it comes to comfort, the SoftTrack deck cushioning checks all the boxes. This all adds up to a treadmill that feels great.

• Motor: 2.5 HP
• Speed: 0.6 to 8mph
• Incline: None
• Belt: 18” x 49”
• Folding: Yes
• Features: Shock-absorbing deck, streamlined controls, built-in speakers, media shelf, aux port, safety key, transportation wheels, 220lb weight capacity.

The Asuna 8730G treadmill from Sunny Health and Fitness is ideal if you have limited space and want a low-profile treadmill that can be used for both running and walking.

When you’re done working out, this popular machine folds down to only 4.5″ tall, allowing you to regain your floorspace by squeezing it under a sofa or bed.

However, unlike classic low-profile treadmills, there aren’t as many compromises with its streamlined design. The 8730G, for example, has a 2.5 HP motor that can go up to 8 mph. This will last you a long time, and the shock-absorbing deck and stabilizer handles will keep you secure and comfortable as you run.

• Motor: 2.5 CHP
• Speed: 0 to 10mph
• Incline: 0 to 10% (Motorized)
• Belt: 20” x 55” ​
• Folding: Yes
• Features: Bluetooth connectivity, rapid-charge USB port, quick controls, 3-Zone Variable Response cushioning, tablet shelf, pulse-grip heart rate monitors, preset workout programs, cooling fan.

The Horizon Fitness T101 is one of our favorite under-a-grand treadmills, with performance and features comparable to treadmills costing much more.

This sleek running machine has a solid design and a powerful 2.5 CHP motor that can reach 10 mph and has a motorized incline of up to 10%. The 3-Zone Variable Response cushioning ensures a comfortable run at any speed, and the belt dimensions are reasonable for this price range.

As we’ll see in our comprehensive review of the T101, it’s packed with features that make running more enjoyable. Bluetooth speakers, a media shelf, a USB charging connector, and a built-in cooling fan are all included.

• Motor: Unspecified
• Speed: 0 to 6.2mph
• Incline: None
• Belt: 17” x 47”
• Folding: No
• Features: Compact design, aluminum alloy frame, EVA cushioning, anti-slip running belt, telescopic handrail, LED monitor, remote control, 242lb weight capacity.

Sure, we all want a treadmill at home, but for those of us who live in studio apartments, condos, or other compact spaces, a full-size running machine may not be an option. This is where the WalkingPad R1 Pro really shines.

It’s a fully functional treadmill with handrails and a digital monitor once it’s set up. However, it can be folded down to 38″ x 28″ x 6″ when not in use, making it the smallest folding treadmill on the market.

While it performs admirably, the R1’s top speed is only 6.2 mph, making it best suited for walkers. When you consider that the running belt is merely 17″ x 47,” this is undeniably true.

The R1 is still a good alternative for folks who don’t want a treadmill that takes up half their living room.

• Motor: 2.25 CHP
• Speed: 0 to 10mph
• Incline: Two positions (Manual)
• Belt: 16” x 50” ​
• Folding: Yes
• Features: ​Backlit display screen, thumb heart rate monitor, iFit compatible, six preset programs, storage space, media shelf.

The Weslo Cadence G 5.9i is one of our favorite entry-level treadmills, including a surprisingly powerful motor and useful features not seen on many budget treadmills.

It has its flaws, but it performs admirably overall. There’s a powerful 2.25 HP motor that can reach speeds of up to 10 mph. The belt is a little smaller than others in the budget range, measuring 16″ x 50″.

Although a two-position manual selector provides considerable flexibility, there is no motorized inclination option. It’s also compatible with the iFit system, which is beneficial if you use it. The entire information of the Cadence G 5.9i is waiting for you in the full Cadence G 5.9i review.

Category Breakdown

Considering treadmills can be bought for anywhere between around $150 and $10,000 (yeah, they go that expensive!), it can be a little overwhelming when trying to find the right one for you.

Don’t worry! At Fitness Verve, we have taken the guesswork out of buying a new treadmill. We have split the Best Home Treadmill for Weight Loss on the market into convenient categories based on your budget and your aims.

Whether you are looking for something for under $500 or a machine specifically for walking, we have you covered.

Cheap Treadmills

Buying a treadmill can be surprisingly cost-effective – providing you know where to look. If you are on a strict budget, the sub-$300 range is your first stop.

These machines won’t offer you much more than the basics, but they can provide you with means for a decent workout at home. While there are exceptions, top speeds in the budget category tend to be around 6mph, while incline is rare and – if present – is almost certainly manual.

Belts also tend to be very compact – great for space-saving, but not great for taking longer strides! Regardless of their limitations, if you want to start walking or jogging in the comfort of your own home, these machines are a worthwhile consideration.

Treadmills Under $500

Spending up to $500 on a treadmill may not seem like much more of an investment, but it is a big step up in terms of performance.

Motors tend to arrive in the region of 2.0 HP, with top speeds averaging 8 to 10mph – more than enough for a good running workout at home. The biggest limitation in this range is the belt size, which remains pretty compact.

These treadmills may not have the fancier aspects of their more expensive cousins, but you can still expect good cushioning, backlit display screens, heart rate monitors and – sometimes – built-in speakers.

Treadmills Under $1,000

This category proves that you don’t need to spend over a grand to end up with a treadmill with advanced features.

Both performance and convenience increase in this range. Motors come in at around 2.5 to 3.0 HP and deliver top speeds ranging from 10 to 12mph. The biggest improvement is that motorized incline becomes more common.

Generally, belts remain a little compact, yet some offer the industry standard 20” x 60” dimensions. You will also find improved consoles with better screens and controls, although you still won’t find any touchscreens or internet capabilities.

Treadmills Under $1,500

Things continue to improve as we pass the $1,000 mark, with treadmills offering impressive performance and additional convenience.

With an average motor of 3.5 CHP, top speeds may not have increased much (the average is 12mph) but overall performance is better. Your ideal speed is reached quicker, with a quieter and smoother experience than you’d have in lower price ranges.

Secondary features also get better in this range, with the appearance of smart touchscreens – even if they are a little small. Things like built-in speakers, cooling fans and media shelves are all pretty much standard by this point.

Treadmills Under $2,000

Truth be told, spending up to $2,000 on a treadmill won’t give you much more in terms of performance when compared to those under $1,500. Aspects such as speeds and inclines tend to be roughly the same, as do belts and motors.

However, the latter two do increase a bit, with some belt sizes around 22” x 60”, while you will find motors anywhere between 3.5 and 4.0 CHP. However, the most significant difference you’ll find in this region is in the features department.

The extra $500 allows manufacturers to kit their treadmills with features that enhance convenience. This includes bigger display screens capable of playing HD video, along with quality speaker systems. You’ll also find stronger cooling fans, more storage space, sturdier builds and better cushioning.

Ultimately, $2,000 isn’t a small amount, but buying a treadmill in this range will give you an excellent machine.

Manual Treadmills

Motor? Who needs a motor?! Not every treadmill requires external power – some rely solely on the user to power the belt.

There are several reasons why you may want a manual treadmill. For example, they tend to be cheaper to buy and are obviously cheaper to run. There is also evidence that a manual machine allows you to burn around 30% more calories when compared to the same time spent on a motorized treadmill.

These machines do have their limitations. Belts tend to be smaller, there are no advanced consoles and the overall feel can be a bit basic. Despite this, they still prove that old-school works, even in this motorized digital age!

Treadmills for Running

The bottom line is that runners need a treadmill that will keep up with them – which is exactly what the machines in this category do.

Here, it’s all about providing a high top speed with a strong motor that reaches that speed quickly and quietly. While secondary features play a part, comfort is reliant mainly on the belt being big enough to cater for long strides, with ample cushioning under that belt.

To withstand daily beatings, these machines have to be built to last. Having this feature set tends to be why treadmills made for running are among the most expensive.

Treadmills for Seniors

While some seniors enjoy jogging and running, many will be using their treadmills primarily for walking, which is reflected in our chart on the best treadmills for seniors.

Seniors need to stay safe and feel secure on their machines. This is why high-top speeds and incline options take a back seat, with cushioning and stability becoming more important. This means longer safety rails and smaller speed increments are required.

As for secondary features, these also play less of a role, but more intuitive consoles and simple controls are always welcome.

Treadmills for Walking

There are many reasons to buy a walking treadmill. You may be returning from injury or illness, just starting a fitness regime, are a senior, or are walking while you work or watch TV.

With this in mind, top speeds don’t matter here – strong performance does. In this range of treadmills ideal for walkers, you will find both budget manual models as well as high-end motorized machines. You’ll also see under-desk treadmills and those with large safety rails for added stability.

Providing you don’t need any fancy additional features, it’s easy to find a good walking treadmill on a tight budget.

How to Choose the Right Home Treadmill for Weight Loss

Going into a store and buying the first treadmill you see isn’t the smartest move. While treadmill buying doesn’t need as much thought as buying a house or a car, some consideration in needed.

As you will already have seen on this page, the treadmill market is incredibly varied. Budget, high-end, motorized, manual, basic, flashy… What’s right for you?

Here are some things to keep in mind before you make the commitment. Taking some time to figure things out now will result in a machine you will actually use for daily exercise, instead of as an expensive clothes horse!

Intended Use

Only you will know what you intend to use your treadmill for. Are you just starting fitness walking for the very first time? Do you want to train for an upcoming event? Do you want a machine that allows you to do high-intensity sprinting?

A treadmill designed for walkers is very different to one designed for runners. Try training for a marathon on an under-desk treadmill and you’ll understand what we mean.

This is why it is important to define your exact goals. If walking is your end goal, then a cheaper treadmill with a low top speed and smaller speed increments will be just what you need.

If you plan to eventually start running, buy a treadmill with a powerful motor and higher top speed (up to 12mph). This way, you won’t have to buy a new treadmill when your fitness improves.

If you are a casual user, you can comfortably buy in the cheaper price ranges. However, if you are planning to use the treadmill daily, or will be training for a long-distance event, the more money you spend, the better your experience will be.

Core Features

When you know what your intended use is, it’s much easier to determine what core features you need on your treadmill.

These include:

Design
Many people buying a treadmill will be looking for something that fits into their living space. The good news is that the majority of treadmills have space-saving designs. This means the deck folds up vertically, allowing you to stow it away and reclaim floor space after use.

Some folding treadmills will have features to make this easier, such as hydraulic assistance to help lift the deck and/or a soft-drop feature, so the deck will fall into place easier when unfolding.

Aside from folding features, most treadmills will follow a similar design, with a central console at the front with support handles. Some handles will be short, while others will run the length of the belt – you’ll mainly find these on walking machines and treadmills for seniors.

Speed
If – like many people – you are buying a treadmill to get fit at home with a little regular jogging, a top speed of between 5 to 8mph will be ample.

If all you want to do is walk, then a max speed of 3 to 5mph will do, while runners will require at least 10 to 12mph to feel unrestricted.

Motor
The top speed is determined by the motor the treadmill has, which – in turn – is determined by the price range in which you shop. The motor is the heart of the treadmill and is measured in HP (horsepower) or CHP (continuous horsepower). As you may have guessed, the higher the HP, the better the machine.

A higher HP will offer greater top speeds and will allow you to reach them quicker, smoother and quieter. For example, two machines may offer a top speed of 12mph. However, one with a 3.75 CHP motor is going to be a much smoother ride than one with a 2.5 CHP motor.

Incline
Many treadmills offer the option to add incline to the surface. This gradient works both your muscles and cardiovascular system in different ways. Adding a little incline is also said to mimic outdoor running more effectively.

In the budget price ranges, incline options are quite limited. In fact, many don’t offer incline at all, while others offer a two or three-position manual incline.

As you being to move up the ranges, you will see a motorized incline of around 10% right up to 15% on higher-end models.

As you push to around $1,500, you will also start to see treadmills offering a decline of up to -3%, to mimic a slight downhill gradient.

Belt
The running belt is the next core feature worth paying attention to. After all, this is the only part of the treadmill you come into contact with while working out. When it comes to belts, the bigger the better.

Walkers can get away with smaller dimensions as a walking stride is not as long as a running stride. Dimensions of around 18” (wide) by 50” (long) is ample for most walkers. If you are running or are a taller user, then these dimensions will not suffice.

The industry standard is 20” x 60”, which delivers close to the dimensions you may find on a commercial gym machine. This is relatively comfortable for most users, doing most activities.

Of course, the belt size you end up with will largely be determined by your budget. You are not going to find a spacious 20” x 60” belt on a sub-$500 machine, so keep your expectations in line with your price range.

Cushioning
Every treadmill will have some sort of cushioning, although – as with other core features – the level and quality you receive will depend on the amount you spend.

Cushioning – or shock absorption – is important as it helps protect your joints from the stress placed on them as you run. Walking treadmills don’t need as much cushioning, but if you plan to run, you’ll need it.

You’ll find cushioning comes in many forms. Cheaper machines will offer an all-around shock absorption, which will do nicely for more runners. Others offer a variable system, where cushioning at the front of the belt will be softer than the ‘push-off zone’ at the rear of the belt.

Some treadmills will offer the option to turn to cushion off. This is beneficial if you are a road runner training for an event, as the lack of cushioning will feel more like running on concrete.

Secondary Features

We class a treadmill’s core performance as paramount. However, there’s no denying that the secondary features make at home running more of a pleasure.

A secondary feature is what you will find up top on the main console, if the treadmill has one. For example, this is where you’ll find the display screen and controls, which is the minimum a good motorized treadmill should have.

Controls for the machine should mainly comprise speed and incline controls, as well as an emergency stop button. These controls will differ from treadmill to treadmill. Most will offer simple +/- controls, while some will give quick controls allowing you to jump from, say, 3mph to 7mph instantly.

Display screens get better the more you spend. In the budget region, you’ll find small and simple screens, offering a readout of time, distance and speed. As you go up in price, screens will get bigger and more detailed, eventually offering full color and video.

In the premium ranges, you will find 14” full-color HD touchscreens with internet apps, allowing you to browse Netflix, Facebook and other entertainment as you walk, jog or run.

Good screens often come with good speaker systems. Depending on the price range these may be quite basic – allowing you to plug in your smartphone via an aux plug – or good quality, with Bluetooth connectivity.

Things like cooling fans also get better the more you spend. Affordable treadmills don’t always offer them, but high-end machines will give you stronger fans with multiple speeds.

Finally, all treadmills should come with a safety tether. However unglamorous it may be, this is an essential inclusion on any treadmill. Should you faint, fall or slip, this little key will pop out of the machine, instantly stopping it and preventing any damage caused by the belt.

What About Under-Desk Treadmills?

As the world becomes more convenient, it’s all too easy to spend your entire day sitting – at mealtimes, in the car, at work and on the sofa.

In recent years, people have taken a stand against sitting! One popular way of incorporating more movement into daily life is by using an under-desk treadmill.

These simple walking machines resemble a traditional treadmill, albeit with no supportive handrails – just the deck and tread belt, and a small control console. This slimline design allows you to slide the treadmill under a desk and walk while you work.

The benefits of using such a device are pretty obvious, allowing you to up your daily step count in a place where you would usually be sitting down.

On that note, you will need to ensure that the desk under which you place the treadmill is suitable. There’s no point walking while you work if you have to hunch over to send emails and answer the phone!

You can either buy a specific standing desk to go along with your treadmill, or you can prop up your current desk and/or desk equipment (phone, screen, keyboard and so on) if feasible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

As this in-depth article has highlighted several times, treadmills are one of the greatest ways to achieve good fitness in the comfort of your home, garage or office.

You can walk yourself lean as you answer calls, engage in HIIT without other people watching, or train for a marathon while watching the latest Netflix release!

The models we have listed in our top ten charts represent our top picks from various price ranges and are easily some of the best treadmills you can find at the moment.

However, this is just a guide. You will find loads of quality treadmills in the individual categories, as well as by doing your own browsing.

Whatever you end up with, good luck with your new treadmill. Don’t forget to buy a new pair of running shoes to enjoy it with!