Best Treadmills for Walkers (2024)

Sometimes the simplest form of exercise is the best. When hunting for a walking treadmill, there are a number of points to consider as the usage will be vastly different than for marathon training. In my experience, walking has produced some of my own greatest gains both for weight loss and conditioning. This is especially true when I combine treadmill walking with a weighted vest, as I describe here. The best treadmills for walkers are conveniently sized, fold up easily, and are equipped with features to support user satisfaction. Whereas treadmills built for long-distance runners require longer running surfaces and high-powered motors, machines for walkers tend to be smaller, and some can fit beneath a desk.

The search begins here with our round-up of the best treadmills for walkers on the market today. I’m considering key factors such as price, warranty, performance, and added features. I’ve also included a pick of the best desk for treadmill walkers to use while exercising. As with any piece of exercise equipment, price can vary widely depending on how many bells and whistles one desires. Typically, customers seeking walking treadmills are less interested in the showy features and prefer stability and durability.

It is true that some crossover variables do exist between shopping for walking treadmills and treadmills in general. For more information on the general How-To’s of picking a home treadmill, read our review of what to look for when shopping for a new home treadmill.

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At TreadmillReviews.net, we bring you comprehensive reviews of treadmills so you can decide which one is right for you. Our staff thoroughly test all the treadmills we review. We install them, walk on them, run on them, and try out all of the features. We get to know each and every treadmill we review extremely well. Our reviewers log miles on the deck. We listen and record the sound of the motor, we test and measure the incline/decline, try out all aspects of the console and try the treadmill’s features, such as iFit.

Every treadmill we review undergoes the same rigorous process. That way we can compare and contrast them and give you an honest review of what we think. We have tried each of the treadmills in this comparison and we give an honest review of each of them, to help you make a buying decision.

Our reviewers are treadmill and fitness experts. Brian, the author of this review, is a professional bodybuilder, and is a 7-time national qualifier in both men’s bodybuilding and classic physique within the NPC competitions. He has coached and been coached on cardiovascular training, HIIT, and nutrition, particularly as it pertains to weight loss for competitions. He is an expert at treadmills, has been on this treadmill, and you can trust his opinion on all of the treadmills he reviews.

How Treadmills Were Selected for This List

Every treadmill you’ll see in this market list was researched, and, when possible, hand-tested to ensure you know exactly what to expect if you make a purchase. As a competitive athlete who has trained for everything from 5K’s to triathlons, marathons, and more, I’ve used dozens of treadmills over the years and know the ins and outs of what to look for.

In this roundup, I’ve considered premium features including motor size, incline/decline, speed, special programming options, warranty, and integrated technology. Each product is assessed without bias as some treadmills are simply better for certain types of training than others.

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1. Best Overall Walking Treadmill – Sole F63

Good for: Walkers who want a top-notch model that can also handle runners in the family, with built-in workouts, and no flashy HD touchscreen.

Where to buy Sole F63 Check price at Sole Check price at Amazon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy Sole F63 $1,199 See details $1,199 See details $1,199 See details

In my experience testing treadmills, the best all-round models are those I see serving multiple purposes at once. Enter the Sole F63, which is consistently ranked among the best treadmills around. This 2023 Sole F63 brings a lifetime warranty on both the frame and motor, and I can’t say enough about that these days. One of the first things manufacturers seem to cut in budget models is the warranty, and that speaks to their confidence in the parts. I’m also impressed with that kind of warranty on a sub-$1,200 machine. It’s built with a 3.0 HP motor capable of delivering speeds up to 12 mph while offering deck cushioning which reduces the impact up to 40%. As a walker and hiker myself, I can tell you that just because you’re not running, don’t think you’re not putting stress on your joints. It’s as much a matter of your own bodyweight as it is speed. When I got on our Sole F63, I could feel the difference in my feet as I let them clomp about.

This treadmill serves as the entry-level treadmill of the Sole lineup and is rated a “Best in Class” across many categories, including walking treadmills. With commercial-grade components and 15 levels of incline, customers are guaranteed a solid experience for life. Among the Sole F63’s many highlights include a folding frame, a solid 20- x 60-inch running deck, and maximum user weight of 325 pounds. Walkers can use the 10 built-in programs in conjunct with the 6.5-inch LCD screen. I tried out the battery of U.S. Armed Forces fitness tests and felt it would suffice just about anyone interested in cardio. Equipped with pulse grips in the handlebars, the unit also comes with a chest strap for heart rate monitoring and is Bluetooth-enabled. With an integrated tablet-holder, users can always opt to affix their own personal device to the treadmill and incorporate a separate workout app or use the Sole Fitness app and sync up with Apple Health or others. Priced at $1,199, the budget friendly Sole F63 is tough to turn down when shopping for walking treadmills. No, it doesn’t come with a big high-definition touchscreen, but ultimately that’s why it’s priced lower than some rivals. Most of my walking and hiking workouts last under 30 minutes and if you’re unimpressed with the simple 6.5″ LCD screen, this model comes with a terrific tablet holder and you can watch Netflix or use any other app, paid or free. See our detailed review of the Sole F63.

Pros	Cons
Lifetime warranty on frame/motor Budget-friendly at under $1,200 3.0 CHP motor more than sufficient for walking Bluetooth: BLE 3.0 audio, BLE 5.0 for app-support	Large 267-pound machine 77″ in length

Key Specs

Motor	3.0 HP
Incline	0 — 15
Running Area	20″ x 60″
Folding	Yes
Top Speed	12 MPH
Weight Capacity	325 LBS
Dimensions	77″ L x 35″ W x 67″ H
Screen	6.5″ LCD
Warranty	Lifetime Frame, Motor, Deck; 2 Years Electronics & Parts; 1 Years Labor

2. Best Walking Treadmill on a Budget – Horizon T101

Good for: Walkers want a high-quality machine for under $700.

Where to buy Horizon T101 Check price at Horizon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy Horizon T101 $649 See details $649 See details

For walkers seeking a high-quality treadmill for just $649, the Horizon T101 is a top pick. A well-rounded machine in all respects, this foldable treadmill sports a running area of 20- x 55 inches, and can support up to 300 pounds in user weight. I can certainly feel the difference in this belt of 55″ as opposed to the longer 60″ models, but as a walker it didn’t short me at all. I’m 5’10 and was able to walk and even jog easily enough on this unit. I’m also always happy to see a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, as well as compatibility with numerous streaming apps and programs. This is another bring-your-screen treadmill and my own iPad fit securely in the tablet holder, no sweat. This unit brings other comfort features such as Bluetooth speakers, energy saver mode, fan, a tablet rack, and a water bottle holder. Designed with three LED windows, the treadmill comes with five built-in programs, and offers display feedback for Calories, Distance, Heart Rate, Incline, Speed, and Time.

Key features of the Horizon T101 include a 2.5 CHP motor which powers a 0-10% incline and speeds up to 10 mph. Heart rate can be tracked using contact grips and can be transmitted to a number of independent workout apps. Bluetooth-enabled, the treadmill can pair with apps such as Peloton, STUDIO, and iFit, or be used with Netflix, Hulu or other streaming programs. Built to fold up and store when not in use, the treadmill also comes with a cushioning mechanism, and at only 180 pounds, can be easily moved about the home gym. Users can quickly shift through the workout programs with one-touch controls, and in addition to a built-in device holder, the machine also features a USB port for re-charging devices. Currently priced at $649 at Horizon Fitness with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, budget-conscious shoppers have a hard time walking by this treadmill. To read the full review of the Horizon T101, click here.

Pros	Cons
Great price under $700 Lifetime warranty on frame and motor Easy to move about at only 180 pounds	Shorter 20″ x 55″ deck which is great for walking, but limits running Smaller 2.5 CHP motor

Key Specs

Motor	2.5 CHP
Incline	0 — 10%
Running Area	20″ x 55″
Folding	Yes
Top Speed	10 mph
Weight Capacity	300 lbs
Dimensions	71″ L x 34″ W x 57″ H
Screen	Three LED Windows
Warranty	Lifetime frame and motor, 1-Year Parts, 1-Year Labor

3. Best Under the Desk Walking Treadmill – Lifespan TR1200-GlowUp Under Desk Treadmill

Good for: Workplace walkers who want to use their treadmill in an office.

Where to buy Lifespan TR1200-GlowUp Check price at Lifespan Check price at Amazon Where to buy Lifespan TR1200-GlowUp $1,549 See details $1,499 See details

It’s a dream come true to the work-remote culture, and perhaps even upscale offices. I love the idea of having a treadmill which fits under the desk and the Lifespan TR1200-GlowUp hits all the right marks in our book. The portable console is sturdy enough for long walks, and yet small and compact enough to be picked up and carried away. At 114 pounds, I can carry this around without much difficulty. That said, it does come with front-end roller wheels. And with no assembly required, customers can literally roll it out of the box, plug in, and get to walking.

Priced at $1,549, this may seem high for an under desk treadmill considering the size. But really, these kinds of treadmills are all about the convenience. The unit itself measures only 50 inches long and can slide underneath a desk with ease. Meanwhile, the console 12.5 inches wide, 3 inches deep, and 2 inches in height. The machine also features a safety mechanism which stops the rollers once the user steps off. With speeds up to 4 miles an hour, it’s a solid buy for the work-at-home crew. I can easily break a sweat walking only 3.5 mph on this unit.

All that said, while we feel the TR1200-GlowUp is the best of the under desk treadmills, keep in mind the entire category of these machines do have some limitations. The manufacturer recommends six hours or less of daily use, and the walking surface is only 20 inches wide by 50 inches long. Maximum user weight is 350 pounds, and that might be a deal-breaker for some potential customers. But for a unit that weighs less than 120 pounds and has a 2.25 HP motor, it’s a solid piece of fitness equipment. Entertainment-wise, there aren’t many bells and whistles as it’s built with the assumption that users will be standing over a computer desk. The unit is Bluetooth and does come with a console which reads out calories, distance, rate, and other basic info. I just pointed it toward my television set and go.

Pros	Cons
Bluetooth and can sync to LifeSpan App or other Convenient size of 63″ x 28.5″ x 7.25 No assembly required Comes with 2-ply belt Maximum user weight of 350 lbs	Only 4 mph speed Recommended use of less than 6 hours per day Seems pricey at $1,549

Key Specs

Motor	2.25 HP
Incline	0%
Running Area	20″ x 50″
Folding	No
Top Speed	4 MPH
Weight Capacity	350 LBS
Dimensions	63″ x 28.5″ x 7.25″
Screen	12.5″ x 3″ x 2″
Warranty	10 years frame, 1-Year labor, 2 years parts.

4. Best Walking Treadmill Desk – Lifespan TR5000-DT7

Good for: Professionals who want to work while they walk.

Where to buy Lifespan TR5000-DT7 Check price at Lifespan Where to buy Lifespan TR5000-DT7 $2,499 See details

And while I’m checking out walking treadmills to fit under a desk, it makes sense to consider getting a package deal including the desk itself. Frankly, this is one is a stretch due to the $2,499 price, but it does come with a specialized desk. Frankly these LifeSpan units do feel more steady under the feet, almost like the old step aerobic blocks. For customers looking for that combo of a standing desk and treadmill, the Lifespan series to be an incredible catalogue in that regard. Our pick for top model including a desk would be the TR5000-DT7. It’s tough to find treadmill boards like this with a desk attached, but you can type on a laptop while using.

Measuring 70.5 inches in length, the desk can be adjusted to 52 inches in height. Engineered with an internal cable system which connects directly through the frame, the desk prevents clutter. The unit also features an integrated armrest and console. In terms of colors, the desktop itself comes in any of seven colors, with two different options for the frame.

Meanwhile, the treadmill beneath the desk 3.0 HP motor capable of speeds up to 4.0 mph. With a walking area of 20 x 50 inches, the treadmill itself weighs 119 pounds, while the desk is 86 pounds. Maximum user weight is an impressive 400 pounds, and the console offers a readout of distance traveled, calories burned, walking time, and step count. For our complete review of the Lifespan TR5000-DT7, read here.

Pros	Cons
Solid 400-pound user weight max 3.0 HP motor Adjustable desk height of 25″ x 52″ Adjustable desk width of 48″ x 60″	A bit pricey at $2,499 Only 4 mph speed

Key Specs

Motor	2.0 CHP
Incline	0%
Running Area	20” x 50”
Folding	No
Top Speed	4 MPH
Weight Capacity	400 LBS
Dimensions	70.5” L x 46.75” W
Screen	N/A
Warranty	10 years Frame, 2 years Parts and 1 year Labor

5. Smallest Footprint – ProForm City L6

Good for: Walkers who value both space and price.

Where to buy ProForm City L6 Check price at ProForm Check price at Amazon Check price at Dick’s Sporting Goods Where to buy ProForm City L6 $599 See details $599 See details $599 See details

For most walkers seeking a treadmill for home use, space is indeed at a premium. And when space is tight, the ProForm City L6 not only brings the package, but at a great price with lots of bells and whistles. The narrow width is the key here to making it fit in smaller areas. At $599, the treadmill comes complete with a free 30-day subscription to the iFit Family Membership plan, valued at $468. I’ve found so many walking programs while using iFit I just can’t ever run out, frankly. That means the customer is getting the actual unit for true enough bargain we could’ve awarded the ProForm City L6 any number of high ratings.

With an easy-to-fold frame, the treadmill itself is only 29 inches wide by 70.25 inches deep and 44.5 inches tall. So that’s 5-6″ inches more narrow than most stand-up units. It sports a 250-pound user weight max and only weighs 125 pounds itself, meaning it’s easy to move.  The 17.5- x 45-inch walking surface is perfect for small spaces, and powered by a 1.6 CHP motor capable of speeds up to 8 mph. I wouldn’t recommend walking on this for hours at a time given that motor size, and you’ll definitely want to keep the belt lubricated. Complete with a built-in tablet holder, the Bluetooth-enabled machine comes built to work with iFit, meaning live trainers can control the mechanisms from remote. But, since it comes without a big built-in screen, you’re not obligated to keep up the iFit payments. For more information on iFit for treadmills, read our review.

Buyers also get a 10-year warranty on the frame. For our complete review of the ProForm City L6, read here.

 

Pros	Cons
Low price of $599 Narrow belt at only 29″ wide Light 125-pound unit	Smaller 1.6 HP motor Very short 45″ walking surface Relatively low 250-pound max user weight

Key Specs

Motor	1.6 HP
Incline	0%
Running Area	20″ X 60″
Folding	Yes
Top Speed	8 MPH
Weight Capacity	250 LBS
Dimensions	70.25″ L x 29″ W x 44.5″ H
Screen	Display
Warranty	10-year Frame, 1-year Parts and Labor

 

What to Look for When Shopping for a Treadmill for Walkers

If in pursuit of a treadmill for walking, as opposed to running, one will notice there is indeed a plethora of options on the market. Frankly, one might wonder whether a treadmill just for walking even makes sense. But the value to having a treadmill is in the convenience. One can use it day or night, rain or shine, hot or cold. And with the growing number of features available on even the smallest of units, walking might not seem so much a chore anymore.

When comparing treadmills for walking then, one wants to consider the price and size, as well as motor speed. Whereas a treadmill for running requires a tread belt long enough to stride outward, the walker’s gait is much shorter. Motor size is also key here as we recommend a minimum of 3.0 HP for those wanting to run with any level of intensity. Meanwhile, motors 2.0 and under are plenty powerful enough to handle a walker’s gait, even if speed walking. Runners need higher mile-per-hour ranges, whereas walkers would be quite hurried to hit the 5-8 mph zone. And so, when comparing treadmills for walking, make sure these considerations are in play. Prices are coming down across the industry and options increasing.

Another consideration of course is entertainment. Numerous workout apps exist for runners, walking apps are also out there but not as plentiful. The good thing about a folding treadmill for walkers is that if need be, the user can roll it in front of their television set at minimum, or simply wear headphones.

All that said, keep in mind when searching for treadmills that intended use is key. There’s probably no reason to spend thousands of dollars on a treadmill for walking when those higher-dollar units are built with long bouts of marathon pounding in mind.

Ideal Sizes for Walking Treadmills

Consider the gait of the walker in question. Even the tallest walker won’t reach out as far as a runner. This means one can save on some space here with a shorter unit. This is great news when considering a home treadmill in general as the larger machines take up more space. Do look at the maximum user weight though as this is not only a must for the walker, but it’s also an indication of overall durability. Some of these smaller treadmills only offer a 200+ pound limit, meanwhile the larger machines go up to 350+. Most home treadmill footprints are around six feet long and three feet wide, but those built exclusively for walking can be significantly smaller, meaning the proposed placement in the home is also a factor.

And while making these considerations about sizes, do consider that folding treadmills require different space than fixed units, and there’s always other machines to consider too.

• Folding Treadmills are a great deal for those that want to save space, and as one can see, they are now available in a variety of different quality levels and price ranges. Once upon a time, only cheap machines were built to fold, but we’re now seeing the variety of folding units increase each year. Consider that the best folding treadmills can be used for all kinds of cardio, including walking, light jogging or running.
• Treadmill alternatives should also be considered if space is a top priority. Unique machines that take up very little space and typically combine the action of a treadmill, elliptical, and stepper to give you a great all-round, non-impact workout. These types of machines can be found at both moderate and high price points and can be a great match for those who are really tight on space or those looking for a low-impact cardio workout.

Which “Bells and Whistles” Matter to You?

This touches somewhat on budget, as one typically expects to pay more money for more features. But in some cases, walkers might just want as plain a unit as possible without too many extras. Whether an integrated tablet-holder is important or not is up to the individual, same as read-out screens. To that degree, the variety of workout apps compatible with the treadmill also differs between these brands and price ranges.

Additional Resources

• How to Fix Common Treadmill Problems
• Treadmill Motors: What You Need to Know
• List of Treadmill Brands
• List of Treadmills
• Treadmil Buyer’s Guide
• History of The Treadmill

Recent Updates

October 19, 2022: Lifespan TR800-DT5 has been replaced with the TR5000-DT7 due to unavailability.

October 18, 2022: The Lifespan TR800-DT3 has been removed due to unavailability, replaced with the Lifespan TR1200-GlowUp Under Desk Treadmill. Added FAQs and original images from our test run. Updated prices/specifications to most current models.

November 29, 2022: Added pictures from hands-on use.

June 7, 2023: Updated specs and pricing.

October 2, 2023: Updated specss and pricing.