“Running is an incredible workout Best Treadmills for Under $500 It’s so cheap because you don’t need any fancy equipment, just a good pair of running shoes and clothes to match the weather,” they told us.
But were we willing to compromise on comfort with outdoor conditions? Of course not! Treadmills have come a long way and there are some really high-quality ones that provide both a great workout experience as well as personal comfort.
If the price has been holding you back from getting a treadmill, we’ve got your back! Today we’ll be reviewing the best treadmills for under $500. Thankfully, there are plenty of hidden gems out there that won’t cost a fortune and will help you supercharge your fitness goals.
The top product for the lowest price is HomeFitnessClub.com’s XTERRA Fitness Treadmill TR150. It works well because it comes with pre-set programs built-in so you can skip setting it all up if you’re in a rush and don’t have time.
You also have 3 different incline settings to choose from, which will challenge your body even more as you run on this machine. What’s best about this Best treadmill under $500 is that it folds easily for storage so it doesn’t take up much space when not in use anywhere in your home.
Whether you are interested in an application that is web-based or digital, there are plenty of options from which to choose. Consider the following alternatives.
Read also: How To Train For A Half Marathon On A Treadmill
Xterra Fitness Tr150 Treadmill
Best Overall
XTERRA is ergonomically shaped for your comfort and the blades twist on impact. It moves smoothly, silently and responsively to relate to your steps; like a good dance partner recognizing the rhythm of your body.
The motor is made in Japan which means a high precision motor with 40% less noise than standard motors. XTERRA also has silent magnetic brakes for instant stopping at any point.
The motor is decent for walking and light running, at 2.25 HP. And unlike a bike, you’ll be able to choose from 12 built-in programs so that you can begin working out or even set your own speed and incline (three levels) and go for it.
With a max speed of 10MPH, you can do a decent running workout on this treadmill. Maybe it doesn’t burn as many calories as an elliptical machine or spin bike (868 vs 644 AND 310), but a 6:00 pace can work most of us over pretty well.
For an affordable treadmill, the running surface is well-cushioned, with XTRASoft Cushioned Deck technology. You’ll appreciate how their running track delivers reliable performance and a comfortable workout every time you run on this machine – the same features you’d get from much more expensive models.
Merax L510c Treadmill
Best Budget Treadmill
While all the treadmills on this list are solid budget options, we’ve chosen the Merax L510C as our best budget treadmill. The belt is slightly smaller than our top pick – at 43.3” by 15.7” – but should be sufficient for most runners, provided you can run in a straight line.
We were very lucky when we decided to go for the Phiten titanium 3-ply turf for our running track. Not only does it have thick padding, but it has actual grass within the rubber-like material which makes not only can make us feel like superheroes, since we are doing something that certainly goes against the norm, but it also helps take our minds off of things.
It has a maximum weight capacity of 240 lbs, which is less than some other models. The 1.5 HP motor might be too small for serious athletes who would like to train with one of these but it would be best for those trying to get their steps in their day or are simply looking for an easy way to get outside and exercise.
Why take your phone when you go out running? Running with a mobile phone equals risk for personal safety, damage to the device and the potential for loss.
Resistance Sports’ Running Buddy offers the benefits of listening to music without the threat of theft or damage from rain or sweat using a simple cable system that attaches firmly to most chest straps available on the market today.
The yoga wheel can also be assembled in no time and it’s surprisingly lightweight, so you can easily store it either under a bed or in the cupboard. Another option is to keep it outside of your place if there happens to be enough space for this fitness tool and all its accessories.
EFitment T012 Auto Incline Folding Treadmill W/bluetooth
Top Incline Treadmill
For when the elements are against you and a day on the Treadmill 500 hopeless, the Efitment T012 provides an on-demand incline function that’s powered by an aluminum Best treadmill under $400 to blast away fat far more effectively than steady-state cardio.
The energy efficiency display is also equipped with a power-saving design that comes to life in dark blue so you can get a heart-pumping workout even in dark gyms.
It’s very useful for beginners because it uses various workouts and exercises to help you burn fat while improving your stamina, speed and endurance. You may not be able to hear the TV while training at full speed, but it’s this or a treadmill.
Another great feature about the turbo jam machine is the retractable device holder that gives you a place to secure your device as you sweat through your workout. Built-in resistance programs and advanced performance monitoring also help keep your workout fresh and exciting.
Sync your phone to the machine via Bluetooth to listen to your favourite workout songs. When you’re done, the soft-drop tech makes it easy to unfold and put away.
Proform Performance 300i
Best Tablet-friendly Treadmill
Many treadmills, unfortunately, fall short in more than one area! For example, the many challenges that come with utilizing a treadmill product designed for home use are always present.
In most outdoors commercial treadmills you’ll find an area to place your tablet or smartphone where there should be no (buried) surprise: They frequently block your ability to read the stats on the main display while running.
The ProForm Performance 300i solves this problem. It comes equipped with a tablet shelf at the top of the console, which is fantastic because it’s also at eye level, so you don’t have to run looking down.
JPX cushioning technology protects your joints from any harm. The 50-inch by 16-inch belt allows users to run at their usual stride.
Other features that make for a good experience are the 16 onboard workouts, a 10% incline option, up to a 300-pound maximum user weight capacity, and an ability to fold its walking surface for easy storage. Choose between workouts with an optional iFit account or without one using the treadmill’s customizable user settings.
Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill
Top Value
The Weslo Cadence has a decently larger running surface and can hold up to 275lbs. It has a tablet holder integrated into the design, which is useful for watching videos or listening to music while you run.
The 6 preset workout options and the 2 manual incline levels will have you covered for various gym routines. The pulse sensors allow you to track your rate of a beat per minute so that helps you keep motivated during workouts. The step-on feature also allows easy access without wasting time with buttons or keys.
This treadmill is the first-ever, in-home cardio fitness machine that automatically adjusts its incline with each stride you take. You get a free month’s access to iFit when you buy this Best treadmill under $300 and personalize everything from your running stats to your training program with just the touch of a button.
Plus iFit lets you share photos and videos of your progress with friends and family as well as participate in interactive runs around the world – no matter where you live.
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Maxkare 801 Folding Treadmill
Best Preset Workout Programs
Workout programs are a huge help on treadmills and exercise bikes. If you’re the type of person who likes variety, however, and likes to switch up your workouts a lot, then you might find that you grow bored after a while because they don’t change and they don’t keep changing.
This is where having an exercise bike from Gold’s Gym comes in handy, as these bikes offer pre-programmed workouts to challenge your stamina or train different muscle groups – but with the added benefit of being able to easily adjust the speed and incline on them yourself.
One can enjoy a number of aerobic exercise programs with the Wonder Aerobic Treadmill from Timex. This treadmill features 15 workout programs so you have plenty of options to choose from every day.
including a fat-burning target zone and an intense heart-monitoring program for serious cardio workouts. The 17″ wide surface is spacious enough for comfortable running, making larger strides possible.
Exerpeutic Tf1000 Treadmill
Highest Weight Capacity
Treadmills are great for fitness, but they exclude many people who don’t have weights in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. If you weigh more than 250 lb., you may have a hard time using most treadmills on the market today. Thankfully Exerpeutic TF1000 Treadmill has a weight capacity limit of 400 lb.
Exerpeutic is designed to enable more people to get some exercise through bettering their physical health and wellness.
Workout equipment can cost a fortune. And if you’re just getting started with your fitness plan, it’s especially hard to justify the investment. Luckily, underneath that fancy exterior, it really comes down to a matter of taking steps forward.
Our clear treadmills are easy on your pockets because they don`t have all those bells and whistles many other lower grade machines possess like speakers, cup holders and big LCD displays.
The warranty is great too with a five-year guarantee on the motor and six months on all other parts.
Sunny Health & Fitness Sf-t7643 Treadmill
Best Foldable Treadmill
The Norwalk Plus Treadmill is one of the most reliable treadmills in this price range, and it’s super simple to set up.
We have a special deal on the 13” tablet holder, which fits most devices comfortably. The digital monitor will allow you to spot your time, distance, and calories at a quick glance. There’s nothing like this tablet holder with the monitor out there because it’s got your time, distance, and calories covered for less than $45.
Picking out workout equipment can be a challenge when you’re working with strict parameters like how much clearance you need for your stuff.
But fear not! We’ve gathered together some of the best and most reliable options out there that will leave room in your home but still offer great features – so you can avoid spending hours and hours researching products only to discover that despite their stellar ratings, they don’t handle your needs.
Sunny Health & Fitness Asuna 7700 Trainer
Top Manual Treadmill
Manual treadmills are a great option – especially for those who want something that doesn’t require the need to plug in an electricity source. They’re designed with the concept of being powered entirely by you as you run on them much like how a human-powered propeller would work.
It sports two large flywheels, a sleek design and there’s a simple but effective tablet holder in the front. There’s also no need for electricity and it’s ergonomic – perfect for staying fit.
The running track offers plenty of opportunities as you can switch between 8 different resistance levels and adjust the incline at any time.
The beauty of this treadmill is that there’s no motor and no maximum speed. It’s up to you to change the gears and control your own speed as it might suit you best.
Goplus Folding Treadmill
Best Quiet Treadmill
The quiet treadmill at Goplusrunning.com has been chosen by most customers as the quietest Best folding treadmills under $500
Because you want to be able to talk or listen to music while you run without risking waking up your neighbour on the other side of your wall, this treadmill is a great option if you’re looking for a high-quality product but don’t want to spend an exorbitant amount of money in order to get it.
While the motor is indeed rather small, at about 1 horsepower, it also gets one of the quietest in operation. This unit makes walking possible for those who aren’t comfortable with riding rollerblades could be a viable option as well as it being easier on your joints than a variety of other modes of transportation.
The Ab Circle Pro is made out of high-quality materials. It comes with 12 workout programs, has a maximum weight capacity of 220lbs, and includes a safety slide that can be adjusted in two ways for the comfort level the user desires.
FAQS
Speaking from experience, I believe in customizing answers to as many questions as possible. This is because content that adapts to each individual user will retain their attention longer. People are more likely to interact with the content they feel relates to them.
What Are the Main Differences Between an Under-$500 Treadmill and More Expensive Models?
This is a familiar scenario for most people, at least when it comes to some products and services. A lot of people would blatantly prefer paying for things that will save them time as opposed to investing money in things that won’t make any difference.
In the case of treadmills, we all know how tedious it can get going from place to place, especially when they are usually located on the top floor and necessitate you clearing an entire evening out.
Now, let’s face the facts: your own health is worth spending a bit of extra cash on an upgraded treadmill option because if you don’t take care of yourself now, by sacrificing both time and energy in travel or exercising sessions, then who else will?
When looking to buy a treadmill, there are certain factors that you should consider. The differences between some high-end models can be slight and in some cases, only one or two options can really make the difference.
Treadmills for home use vary in price depending on the features offered. The treadmill’s manufacturer will determine many of these features and set the price accordingly. The following is a list of some basic features to give you an idea of how much you will expect to spend in order to get one for your own home exercise.
Cushioning
The treadmill of an expensive home gym machine is going to have high-quality cushioning and shock absorption. With these qualities, you can expect comfort and less stress on your knees and joints while running since they absorb most of the pressure your feet exert while moving around.
Although more expensive in most cases, high-end treadmills have a lot to offer. They often have better shock absorption, longer warranties and their consoles are loaded with more features.
It’s worth noting that the higher your budget, the better equipped you’ll be for the long-term – as far as enjoying your exercise is concerned anyway! However, there are certainly some solid options on this list that don’t cost a fortune: one of these could be just right for you.
Motor
It’s no secret that most people think becoming a doctor is an easy process. However, this simply couldn’t be further from the truth.
Becoming a doctor takes years of hard work and dedication to achieve your goal. Of course, it will also require you to devote thousands of hours to all of your classes, but that’s something that everyone has to do if they want to become accomplished in their career field.
Under $500 treadmills are more likely to have lesser components, which means lower speeds and a certainly shorter lifespan.
Noise
Noise is, of course, an unavoidable reality of almost all modern life. There are so many things going on in today’s society that generate sound whether it be stying fans, browsing devices or loud music etc.).
Depending greatly on the environment you live in and the amount of time you spend surrounded by noise, this can affect your quality of sleep for the worse (in terms of quantity or quality).
This shouldn’t be a problem at all if you prefer to run with headphones or live alone. For those with buzzing treadmill motors, make sure they’re not bothering your neighbours by running in the morning or evening when most people are asleep or at work.
Speed, Incline, & Program Choice
There are many reasons we started this business, but two main reasons were – to help everyone find the best equipment for their needs and to help everyone save a lot of money on the materials.
That depends. If you just want to do your continuous run with its pre-set length, or alternatively one of the other programs, then it won’t. But if you combine the different running modes, e.g., interval training with recovery periods, or switch between programs during the same steady run, then it certainly does.
Some treadmills have a lot of apps that would allow you to integrate your phone with them in order to gain real-time updates on your health. Higher-end models often have control over things like the incline settings along with other settings, such as pre-set workout choices.
Sturdiness
Expensive treadmills tend to have a sturdier frame than their less-pricey counterparts. If you’re a smaller person with a chilled running style, this may not be an issue.
However, if you’re larger and more aggressive as a runner or small in stature, you may feel uncomfortable with the treadmill’s foundation being less steady under your weight; it may buckle out of concern for being unable to hold up under too much traffic.
Warranty
If you are going to be running on a treadmill for any length of time, it’s worth looking at treadmills that have warranties of at least 1 year. The more expensive models will come with longer warranties, some as long as 10 years.
Be sure that all different parts like the decking and the motor are covered by your warranty in case they become defective within the first year or so but not after a few years of regular use.
What Should I Look for When Buying a Treadmill for Under $500?
While we all know that treadmills can come at different prices, it’s important to be mindful of what you’re looking for – especially when shopping on a budget.
- Different preset programs (even if only a few)
- Adjustable incline
- An adequate motor (minimum 2.0 HP for walking, 3.0 HP for running)
- A running surface that’s comfortably wide
- Speeds up to 10 mph for running
- Make sure the weight capacity is sufficient for you
- Auto-stop feature
Last update on 2022-10-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API