Running outside is fraught with potential pitfalls and inconveniences: it rains, it gets dark early, and traffic rarely keeps an eye out for ambling joggers. It’s much easier to slide from sofa to treadmill, and that’s why we’re pontificating over the best treadmills available.
Picking the right one for you will be based on a few key criteria – the first and arguably the most important is budget, as it’s possible to spend the best part of a new home deposit on the fanciest treadmills out there.
At the other end of the spectrum, the cheapest offerings typically aren’t worth considering, as the build quality is flimsy and the motors so feeble that they can barely have a hamster reaching their functional threshold.
For most folks, it’s possible to part with as little as $600/£600 to get something half decent, while $2000/£2000 is a healthy budget for the most technically accomplished products.
Why you can trust Stuff: Our team of experts rigorously test each product and provide honest, unbiased reviews to help you make informed decisions. For more details, read how we test and rate products.
Quick list: What is the best treadmill?
The Peloton Tread+ (buy now) is still one of the most interactive and all-encompassing pieces of fitness equipment out there.
The Domyos T900D (buy now) is a sturdy value option that won’t break the bank but will have you breaking a sweat.
The NordicTrack EXP 5i (buy now) is a compact, foldable treadmill that delivers solid iFit performance without the digital distractions.
The Technogym Run (buy now) is a high-performance, whisper-quiet treadmill that blends elite run feel with sled-style strength work – if you can afford it.
The ProForm Pro 9000 (buy now) is a compact folding delight that saves space but doesn’t scrimp on the features.
The Wahoo Kickr Run (buy now) is one of the most advanced running decks you can buy for home — if you’ve got the budget and space.
The Life Fitness T3 (buy now) is a gym-worthy treadmill that’s a little bulky but built like a tank.
The JTX Sprint 9 Pro (buy now) is a robust, no-nonsense home treadmill with serious speed and incline for proper training.
The best treadmills you can buy today:
Best treadmill overall
1. Peloton Tread+
Stuff Verdict
Still one of the most interactive and all-encompassing pieces of fitness equipment out there
Pros
- Best-in-class classes and instructors that genuinely keep you coming back
- Smooth speed and incline controls, plus a roomy, confidence-inspiring deck
Cons
- Very expensive upfront, plus a hefty monthly membership
- Large, non-folding design needs serious floor space
| Peloton Tread+ specs | |
|---|---|
| Max speed | 0 to 20 kph (12.5 mph) |
| Incline | 0 to 12.5% grade |
| Power (motor) | 3hp |
| Running deck | 150 cm × 50 cm (59in × 20in) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz & 5GHz), Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C device charging port |
| Max user weight | 136 kg (300 lb) |
| Dimensions (H × L × W) | 165 cm × 173 cm × 84 cm |
| Weight | 130 kg |
Arguably the brand that introduced on-demand fitness to the home, Peloton has recently revamped its range of fitness equipment so it now packs AI smarts and the ability to do more than merely offer a cardiovascular workout.
While it has been possible to indulge in a little strength training away from the Peloton Tread – particularly if you had the more premium Tread+ model with the massive, swivelling screen – the US company now offers real-time feedback on exercise form, rep ranges and overall wellness across its range of products thanks to a front-facing camera that tracks your every move and AI smarts that keep an eye on progress.
Dubbed Peloton IQ, this clever system allows you to build designated workout plans based on goals, it can provide insight and analysis to your workouts, estimate daily performance and select classes that it thinks suit your mood and energy levels.
Of course, none of this stuff comes cheap, and on top of the very hefty initial outlay, Peloton will ask for £45 a month to snare the All-Access Membership that unlocks all of these goodies.
Is it any good?
Peloton has often been my number one pick of the connected treadmills, purely because its array of classes and instructors provides a workout that is engaging, competitive and genuinely useful at improving form.
However, it’s also possible to slap on a hip-hop-inspired workout and chip away at a 10km run while a bubbly instructor babbles the time away, or you can just binge Netflix via the slick 21.5-inch touchscreen.
The Tread itself is a solid piece of kit, with a slick roller wheel on each side taking care of speed (up to 20kph in quick jumps if required) and an incline that offers a 0 to 12.5% grade simulation for punishing hill runs.
A belt width of 150 x 50cm will suit runners of most sizes, and the operation is smooth, if not the quietest around. Although the 10W front-facing speakers are plenty good enough to drown out any droning from the motor.
Peloton Tread has increased in price over the years, but the software now arguably offers more than ever, with the ability to workout on the floor around the unit with some taxing bodyweight sessions, or throw in a set of dumbbells, and you basically have a mini home gym.
Just make sure you have the space at home to house it (Tread doesn’t fold flat) and the budget to keep up with the monthly membership payments.
Best cheap treadmill
2. Domyos T900D
Stuff Verdict
A sturdy value option that won’t break the bank but will have you breaking a sweat
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Folds away neatly and feels sturdy enough for regular training
Cons
- Shorter, narrower deck won’t suit taller runners
- Console looks dated and lacks built-in guided workouts
| Domyos T900D specs | |
|---|---|
| Max speed | 18kph (11.2 mph) |
| Incline | 0–10% |
| Power (motor) | 1.5hp |
| Running deck | 143 cm × 50 cm |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, FTMS-compatible; works with Domyos E-Connected, Kinomap, Freeletics |
| Max user weight | 130 kg (287 lb) |
| Dimensions (H × L × W) | 147 cm × 185 cm × 88 cm (unfolded) 150 cm × 133 cm × 88 cm (folded) |
| Weight | 89 kg (196 lb) |
Decathlon has built its reputation on delivering functional, affordable fitness kit for the masses, and the T900D sits near the top of its treadmill range as one of the French brand’s most robust, performance-focused models.
Designed for runners who want pro-level speed and incline without the pro-level price tag, it offers a maximum pace of 18 kph (plenty for most mere mortals) and an incline up to 10%, which isn’t bad considering this can be snapped up for under a grand.
The T900D also folds, which makes it more practical for smaller homes than many fixed commercial-style units. Despite its compact footprint, it still manages to squeeze in a reasonably cushioned deck with built-in shock absorption and a frame that, while it isn’t commercial quality by any stretch of the imagination, is built to cope with repeated high-intensity training sessions.
Connectivity is deliberately simple: no flashy touchscreen or AI coaching, but you can link it to third-party apps like Strava, Kinomap and Decathlon’s own Coach app-based training ecosystem via Bluetooth for basic data syncing and structured workouts.
However, its design leans heavily towards function over flair. The console favours chunky, tactile buttons and a basic monochrome display over a slick touchscreen – reliable, but distinctly old-school compared with the glossy interfaces on pricier rivals. It’s a treadmill built to get the job done rather than wow you with its flashier features.
Is it any good?
In use, the T900D does a solid job of delivering a dependable everyday running experience. The motor is strong enough to support faster interval sessions and extended steady-state efforts, while the incline range adds useful variety for hill workouts, if not the most arduous grades on the market.
The deck cushioning is adequate and comfortable for most runners, though the running surface is shorter and slimmer than many similarly priced treadmills, which may cause issues for taller users or those with a longer stride at higher speeds.
Connectivity is basic but dependable. You won’t find integrated classes, scenic runs or motivational leaderboards here, but the Bluetooth link to external apps works well enough for recording workouts or following guided training plans on a phone or tablet.
For many runners, that’s all they need, and I prefer sticking on a podcast or a favoured Spotify playlist over intense, instructor-led workouts most days anyway.
Where the T900D falters is in refinement. The overall build quality doesn’t quite match mid-range competitors, and the bulky, utilitarian design won’t win any Red Dot Design Awards soon.
The interface is perfectly adequate, but the large buttons and dated display make it feel like a machine from Arnie’s bodybuilding era – reliable, but not exactly inspiring.
It’s a capable, wallet-friendly option for runners already embedded in a running app ecosystem. But if you’re after a premium build, slick software or a longer deck, there are better choices higher up the price ladder.
Best folding treadmill
3. NordicTrack EXP 5i
Stuff Verdict
A compact, foldable treadmill that delivers solid iFit performance without the digital distractions.
Pros
- Compact folding design with joint-friendly cushioning
- iFit support adds variety
Cons
- 16kph top speed limits sprint sessions
- Narrow belt can feel restrictive at pace
| NordicTrack EXP 5i specs | |
|---|---|
| Max speed | 16 kph (10 mph) |
| Incline | 0–10% digital |
| Power (motor) | 2.6hp |
| Running deck | 51 × 140 cm (20in × 55in) |
| Connectivity | iFit-enabled, tablet shelf; 2 × 2-inch Bluetooth speakers |
| Max user weight | 135 kg (298 lb) |
| Dimensions (H × L × W) | 152 × 180 × 87 cm (unfolded) 163 × 99 × 87 cm (folded) |
| Weight | 90 kg |
The NordicTrack EXP 5i is a folding treadmill designed for runners who want the benefits of the iFit app (monthly subscription required) without paying for a large, built-in touchscreen. Instead, you can use a tablet or smartphone to access live classes, on-demand workouts and scenic runs.
The treadmill uses what NordicTrack refers to as a “SpaceSaver” design with “EasyLift” assist, which essentially means the deck easily folds upwards on gas struts for more compact storage.
A 2.6hp motor drives the belt up to 16kph, and the 0–10% digital incline allows you to adjust your workout intensity or train for that next jog up Mount Snowden.
The 5-inch high-contrast LCD is about as basic as they come, but it shows key metrics like speed, time, distance, calories, and incline, while OneTouch shortcut buttons let you adjust speed and incline in quick increments on the fly.
Running comfort is good, thanks to NordicTrack’s cushioned deck, which reduces impact on your joints and makes for an enjoyable springy run. This also makes it good for longer sessions and faster sprints, as the deck does a bit of the hard work for you.
However, those absolutely resolute on replicating real-life road running might want to look towards something like the Wahoo Kickr Run, as it feels more realistic.
There are dual 2-inch Bluetooth speakers for basic audio, and a convenient tablet shelf keeps your device in view for iFit workouts.
Is it any good?
It covers off the basics well, offering a reliable, foldable treadmill without a huge digital console, which helps keep the overall cost down.
The EXP 5i handles everyday training well, with a responsive motor and incline system. Its cushioning makes running easier on joints, and the folding mechanism makes it easy enough to stash away in a corner when not in use.
The iFit integration adds variety, including guided workouts, scenic runs and coach-led sessions, though you will need to cough up for a subscription.
Limitations include the 16kph top speed, which may disappoint sprinters, and the 51 × 140 cm belt, which is narrower and shorter than some competitors.
Speakers are functional but not high-end. Despite these compromises, for app-driven training in a compact footprint, the EXP 5i offers strong value.
Best premium treadmill
4. Technogym Run
Stuff Verdict
A high-performance, whisper-quiet treadmill that blends elite run feel with sled-style strength work – if you can afford it.
Pros
- Slat belt is incredibly quiet and easy on joints
- Sled-style resistance mode adds serious training versatility
Cons
- Eye-watering price puts it out of reach for most homes
- Massive, heavy unit needs lots of space
| Technogym Run specs | |
|---|---|
| Max speed | 25kph (15.5 mph) |
| Incline | 0–15% |
| Power (motor) | Peak 7.8hp |
| Running deck | 173 × 51 cm (68in × 20in) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, LAN, Bluetooth, ANT+, NFC; compatible with Apple Watch, HR straps, Technogym Live |
| Max user weight | 160 kg (353 lb) |
| Dimensions (H × L × W) | 175 × 197 × 84 cm (69 × 78 × 33in) |
| Weight | 207 kg (456 lb) |
Technogym has always been about taking simple gym staples and injecting them with cutting-edge, athlete-honed technology, and the latest Run treadmill is no exception.
At the heart of the machine is an innovative Slat Belt deck, which looks a little like rubbery tank tracks but proves exceptional at cushioning knees and joints more effectively. It also creates the quietest indoor running experience I’ve ever tested.
The treadmill sits firmly at the premium end of the market, but it does more than just offer a place to run. With Multidrive resistance technology (and that special belt), it can mimic a weighted sled, allowing users to strengthen lower-body muscles or mix sled-style training with sprints for high-intensity interval sessions.
In addition, Technogym provides access to live and on-demand classes, scenic virtual runs, and off-tread workouts including strength training, yoga and mobility sessions. Combine this with other Technogym smart equipment, and you can create one of the most intelligent home setups available… if you happen to be a millionaire.
Is it any good?
Absolutely fan-flipping-tastic if budget isn’t a concern. The Slat Belt deck makes every run feel smoother and gentler, while the Multidrive sled mode adds a level of functional strength training rarely seen in home treadmills. Performance is silent, stable, and extremely responsive, making it ideal for serious runners and athletes who want versatility in their training.
Technogym’s connected ecosystem is also hugely impressive. You can link the treadmill to the brand’s other smart devices, mimic the terrain and elevation of real-life runs if you link a Strava account, and enjoy a variety of workouts that go well beyond the treadmill.
The live and on-demand content is engaging and professionally produced, offering a high-end, interactive experience that rivals boutique gyms, Peloton and iFit.
That said, the price puts it out of reach for most people. It’s a treadmill designed for serious athletes or luxury home gyms, not casual users.
Despite this, for those who can afford it, the Technogym Run offers a level of versatility, build quality and connected functionality that few home treadmills can match.
Best treadmill for small spaces
5. ProForm Pro 9000
Stuff Verdict
A compact folding delight that saves space but doesn’t scrimp on the features
Best for: Tight spaces
Pros
- Folds almost flat
- Incline and decline make workouts far more varied
Cons
- Noisier than some rivals
- Narrow belt is a compromise for its folding design
| ProForm Pro 9000 specs | |
|---|---|
| Max speed | 12 mph (19.3 kph) |
| Incline | 0 to 12% |
| Power (motor) | 3.6hp |
| Running deck | 51 cm × 152 cm (20in × 60in) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth; iFIT enabled |
| Max user weight | 159 kg (350 lb) |
| Dimensions (H × L × W) | 154 cm × 186 cm × 88 cm (60.7 × 73.2 × 34.6in) |
| Weight | 113 kg (249 lb) |
It is often tricky to find space in a domestic setting to store a treadmill when it’s not in use – after all, it’s a hulking great thing that only really doubles up as a place to hang some sopping wet socks… at a push.
The ProForm Pro 9000 aims to tackle this conundrum by folding up almost flat, so it can be stored upright, where it looks a bit like a Corby trouser press, as opposed to a bulky clothes horse.
Despite the folding mechanism, it still offers an electric motor that has a generous running deck spinning at a frankly daunting 22kph. It also packs a crisp 21.5-inch HD touchscreen that features the iFIT app already embedded in. All you have to do is pay for the monthly membership to make the most of on-demand classes.
It’s not cheap, but the presence of both incline and decline, the rapid-jump speed adjustments and the EasyLift folding mechanism make it a boon for tight spaces, without a compromise on quality components and features.
Is it any good?
Surprisingly so for a folding treadmill, as the “Proshox” cushioned deck provides a soft, but not too springy surface for comfortable sessions (even longer ones) and the built-in 16-inch HD touchscreen is large enough for streaming virtual trainers and on-demand sessions.
The iFIT membership is an additional monthly cost, but it’s well worth it, as the overall quality and breadth of content very closely rival Peloton’s output. What’s mor,e the SmartAdjust system will automatically match the pace and intensity of said virtual instructor… as Peloton does.
Both incline and decline settings work well and nicely mimic real-world running environments, especially when plodding along to one of the interactive videos that whisk you away to the Alps, Californian trails and other exotic locations.
A narrow belt is a slight compromise for the folding mechanism, and I found that the deck and motor were noisier than some rivals. It’s also not as laser-focused on the hardcore running contingent as, say, the Wahoo Kickr Run, but this is a solid, high-tech purchase that neatly slots into mid-budget territory and smaller home gyms.
Best treadmill for marathon runners
6. Wahoo Kickr Run
Stuff Verdict
One of the most advanced running decks you can buy for home — if you’ve got the budget and space
Pros
- “Run Free” speed control and realistic deck feel are genuinely unique
- Excellent incline, decline and app integration for serious training
Cons
- Extremely heavy and doesn’t fold
- No built-in screen
| Wahoo Kickr Run specs | |
|---|---|
| Max speed | Up to 15 mph (24.1 kph) |
| Incline | +15% incline, −3% decline |
| Power (motor) | 3hp |
| Running deck | 152 cm × 56 cm (60in × 22in) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Direct Connect; compatible with Zwift, Wahoo App, Peloton |
| Max user weight | 113 kg (250 lb) |
| Dimensions (H × L × W) | 148 cm × 183 cm × 97 cm (58 × 72 × 38in) |
| Weight | 195 kg (429 lb) |
Engineered for more serious runners rather than casual joggers, Wahoo’s latest flagship treadmill blends high-end motorised performance with smart connectivity and an unmistakable look. It has done for treadmills what the company’s range of turbo trainers has done for indoor cycling.
It pairs with tablets or TVs and apps like Zwift to make indoor running more immersive. This is further aided by a “Run Free” feature that uses sensors on the machine to automatically adjust pace.
Get closer to the front, and the deck will speed up to match your desired pace. Start easing backwards, and the pace drops off. It’s a clever feature that I’m yet to see mimicked by any other brands.
What’s more, there’s a -3% decline to +15% incline to better simulate tricky trail running environments, while Wahoo has added a 5% left/right lateral tilt tolerance, which the company says better replicates running outdoors and trains stabiliser muscles in the legs more accurately than simply running on a neat, flat surface. I told you it was for more “serious runners”.
Is it any good?
For those who want more than “just a treadmill”, the Kickr Run delivers. The deck feels remarkably road-like, the incline/decline range is expansive, and it integrates neatly with apps to make training engaging.
Anyone who has racked up some miles on a bike via Zwift will find the Wahoo Kickr Run appealing, as it integrates neatly with automatic pace and incline adjustments to match the virtual terrain.
The treadmill can also link up with runners’ Strava profiles and simulate previous runs from the real world, adjusting the incline with any elevation changes and speeding up the belt to match previous pace.
On the flip side, you’ll need to bring your own screen or a compatible device, as well as have ample space for this heavy, non-folding unit. Oh, and Wahoo X, the company’s app-based training partner, is great for detailed, race-based training plans, but it’s nowhere near as casual or engaging as those offered by Peloton or iFIT.
If you’re into Zwift or chasing PBs, it’s a compelling (but expensive) purchase, but more casual Netflix joggers may prefer something simpler.
Best treadmill for build quality
7. Life Fitness T3
Stuff Verdict
A gym-worthy treadmill that’s a little bulky but built like a tank
Pros
- Rock-solid build quality
- Simple, reliable controls
Cons
- Very basic interface
- Bulky footprint
| Life Fitness T3 specs | |
|---|---|
| Max speed | 19 kph (12 mph) |
| Incline | 0–15% |
| Power (motor) | 3hp/6hp peak |
| Running deck | 153 cm × 51 cm (60in × 20in) |
| Connectivity | Contact heart-rate sensors + wireless heart rate (via chest strap) |
| Max user weight | 159 kg (350 lb) |
| Dimensions (H × L × W) | 146 cm × 202 cm × 88 cm (57.5 × 79.5 × 34.5in) |
| Weight | 111 kg (243 lb) |
Life Fitness is one of the most recognisable names in commercial gym equipment, with its treadmills appearing in leisure centres, hotel gyms and serious training facilities across the UK.
The chunky T3 sits in an interesting middle ground: it’s designed for home use, yet borrows heavily from the brand’s commercial DNA. In fact, a very similar model can still be found tucked into the corner of one of the gyms I use every week, and it has survived countless miles of daily punishment and sweat without so much as a rusty nut.
Rather than distracting you with huge touchscreens, streaming services or armies of irritatingly beautiful virtual trainers, the T3 takes a deliberately old-school approach. A simple backlit LCD display presents the essential stats – pace, distance, time, incline and calories – without any fanfare.
It’s also easy to programme your own sessions, with controls for speed and incline arranged logically so the treadmill never feels fussy or overwhelming.
You won’t find Bluetooth-enabled coaching or fancy auto-adjusting workouts here – this is a treadmill that believes in doing the basics properly – but there are a couple of basic workouts built into the unit that adjust speed and or incline.
Instead, Life Fitness has poured a lot of effort into the engineering. The deck feels reassuringly solid underfoot, the frame is rock-steady when running at speed, and everything about the unit is designed to withstand proper, consistent training rather than the occasional Sunday stroll.
That durability, however, does contribute to the price, which is far higher than many feature-packed connected treadmills. You’re paying for build quality and long-term reliability rather than the convenience of entertainment apps or techy add-ons.
Is it any good?
If you’re the kind of runner who simply wants a treadmill that turns on, runs smoothly and keeps going for the next decade, the T3 is hugely appealing. It delivers confidence-inspiring stability at fast speeds, a cushioned running surface that assists ageing joints and a sense of refinement that cheaper rivals struggle to match.
The controls are intuitive, the presets are simple to navigate, and the whole experience feels refreshingly drama-free.
But there’s no ignoring what it lacks. The interface is undeniably basic compared to today’s connected workout ecosystems and anyone relying on Zwift, Peloton or in-app coaching will find nothing to plug into here. For some, that’s positively straightforward – for others, it will feel like stepping back a decade.
Best treadmill for high-intensity training
8. JTX Sprint 9 Pro
Stuff Verdict
Robust, no-nonsense home treadmill with serious speed and incline for proper training.
Pros
- Powerful motor and high top speed make it ideal for HIIT
- Spacious deck and tough frame inspire confidence
Cons
- Buttons aren’t ideally placed for mid-run adjustments
- Lacks a large screen
| JTX Sprint 9 Pro specs | |
|---|---|
| Max speed | 13.7 mph (22 kph) |
| Incline | 11% |
| Power (motor) | 4hp brushless |
| Running deck | 152 cm × 55 cm (60in × 22in) |
| Connectivity | Syncs with Zwift, Strava, Kinomap and Bluetooth heart-rate monitors (tablet or phone required) |
| Max user weight | 125 kg (276 lb) |
| Dimensions (H × L × W) | 155 cm × 195 cm × 84 cm (61 × 77 × 33in) |
| Weight | 125 kg (276 lb) |
JTX has made a name for itself by packing commercial-grade gym performance into a package that actually fits into most homes – and on a slightly friendlier budget than rivals.
The Sprint 9 Pro is built like a tank, with a robust frame, generous warranty and a running deck spacious enough to accommodate most body types without feeling cramped.
It won’t blow you away with giant touchscreens, AI coaches or gorgeous fitness instructors like Peloton or models with the iFIT app (or similar) baked in, but it delivers in all the areas that matter for serious running.
That manifests in a 4hp brushless motor, a 22 kph top speed and a 15% max incline, so whether you want a gentle jog or a punishing sprint, the Sprint 9 Pro can handle it.
Is it any good?
The Sprint 9 Pro is built for runners who like to push themselves without a digital trainer holding their hand. Its CushionStep deck is generous and forgiving on joints, while the built-in Bluetooth speakers let you run to your favourite playlist — just don’t expect Boiler Room-worthy volumes.
It also supports connected running, seeing as it syncs with Zwift, Strava, Kinomap and Bluetooth heart-rate monitors or smartwatches, though you’ll need your own tablet or phone to take full advantage of any training apps.
For those who prefer something more analogue and quick-fire, there are 36 pre-installed workouts that cover everything from steady-state cardio to interval training, with the belt adjusting automatically to incline and speed changes. It’s relatively basic, but works well.
Minor niggles? The adjustment buttons for speed and incline aren’t the easiest to reach mid-run, and the heart-rate-monitoring grips aren’t the most comfortable to hold or accurate during an intense session.
Although there are quick-jump adjustment buttons for ramping up the pace without the annoying wait for the belt to catch up. With a 22kph top speed and an impressive 11% max incline, the JTX model can hold its head high among much more expensive rivals in terms of all-out performance.
The lack of a big, bold display makes it feel like something you’d find in a commercial gym, but for those wanting a top-quality tool to train on, its technological shortcomings are easily forgiven.
What to consider when buying a treadmill
The first thing to remember, when buying a treadmill, is that they’re are always bigger than they look in those neat little product shots online. Even so-called compact models tend to measure around 70(w) x 152(l) x 125(h) cm, and that’s before you factor in breathing room. You’ll want extra space on either side to swing your arms without clipping a wall or lamp. Ceiling height matters too – especially if you’re tall or planning on sprinting at incline. Nobody wants to find out mid-run that they’ve misjudged the bedroom clearance.
If space is tight, folding treadmills can be a lifesaver. Many models use wheels and fold vertically, so you can stand them upright against a wall when they’re not in use. The running deck is one of the heaviest parts, but most designs use hydraulic struts, meaning you won’t need superhero strength to pack it away after a workout.
When it comes to specs, a few key numbers really matter. Motor power is usually listed in horsepower (hp), top speed tells you whether it’s built for walking or proper running, and deck width makes a big difference to how confident and comfortable you feel at pace. Incline (and occasionally decline) features are worth paying attention to as well. If you want to mimic outdoor running or torch more calories, hill simulation can make a big difference.
Comfort is just as important. A well-cushioned deck helps protect your joints, especially if you’re logging regular 5Ks or 10Ks. Noise levels are another thing people overlook – a quieter treadmill is far more flat-mate- and neighbour-friendly, particularly for early morning sessions.
Connected features aren’t essential, but they can help with motivation. Guided workouts, virtual routes and progress tracking can all make running indoors feel less repetitive. That said, don’t panic if your ideal treadmill doesn’t come with a massive built-in screen. A sturdy frame, a decent tablet shelf and your favourite fitness app can deliver the same belly-busting results – often for a lot less money.
How we test treadmills
When we test treadmills, we use them the way you actually would – at home, over multiple sessions, and at different intensities. That means everything from slow walking and steady jogs to longer runs and flat-out sprints, rather than a quick spin in a showroom.
We look closely at build quality and stability first. Does the frame feel solid underfoot, or does it wobble when you pick up the pace? We test the cushioning over longer runs to see how kind it is on joints, and pay attention to deck size, which makes a big difference if you’re tall or have a longer stride.
Performance matters too. We check how smoothly the motor delivers power, how quickly the belt responds to speed changes, and whether incline adjustments feel seamless or jarring mid-run. Noise levels are also measured in real-world conditions (early mornings and shared walls are unforgiving).
Ease of use is a big part of the review as well. We assess how intuitive the controls are, how easy it is to fold and move (if it’s designed to), and whether setup is painless or a weekend-long project. Finally, we factor in connected features, value for money and long-term comfort, because the best treadmill isn’t just the fastest or most powerful – it’s the one you’ll actually keep using.
For more information on Stuff’s rating and review process, read our page on how we test products.
