Best Treadmill Reviews – Consumer Reports

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Treadmills

What's behind our treadmill Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 41 models in treadmills to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
Overall score is based mainly on ergonomics, construction, ease of use and exercise range. Scores and tests have been ammended slightly so previously posted results may differ from the current results. The displayed score is based on a total of 100 points.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics considers how well the machine accommodates the needs of users and includes belt size, foot-rail design and handgrip design.
Construction
Construction considers aspects that impact quality like the motor and related components, running deck and the results of our durability tests.
Ease of use
Ease of use considers the ease of using the controls, functions, programs and reading the display.
Exercise range
Exercise range considers the aspects that provide an effective workout to users of various fitness levels, from beginners to very fit individuals.
User safety
User safety considers operational safety and security, including stop-button size and location, safety-key operation, the possibility of striking the motor housing, and the security of the deck for folding models.

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Recommended treadmills

Recommended treadmills are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended treadmills

Treadmill buying guide

To find the treadmill that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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Buying guide video

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In addition to finding Ratings for the latest models, you can now shop online using an ad-free interface where you can buy treadmills in a safe-shopping environment.

Learn more about our Price & Shop program

Treadmills are the most popular workout machine in the U.S. The machines come in three price categories, from low-end to high. Before you buy a treadmill, size up the room where you plan to place it. Do you need a treadmill with a folding deck or will the room accommodate a stationery one? Also consider the intensity of your workout and whether you'll be walking or running. If you're looking for information about treadmills, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ treadmill reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our treadmill buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and treadmill reviews to help you choose the best treadmill for your needs.

Ratings & recommended treadmills

Treadmills (41)

Spending more on a treadmill usually buys you more horsepower, sturdier construction, better hardware, and a longer warranty. That means about $3,000 for a nonfolding model, or half that for a folding model. Spend a little less and you can still get a quality machine that will provide a good workout.

Treadmill buying guide

Roughly two thirds of Americans who exercise do so at home, and a good many of them are hopping on a treadmill. That has manufacturers working overtime to turn out the best machines possible, including smart treadmills that can access the Internet, allowing you to run your favorite running trail via Google maps or create fully customized workouts. As a result of all that innovation, this piece of home exercise equipment can be a big purchase, as our latest tests show. Our top-rated nonfolding treadmill costs upwards of $4,000. Besides tons of innovation, spending that much can get you sturdier construction, better hardware, and more features. But you can get a decent machine that provides a great workout for less than a third of that price.

For example, our top-rated budget treadmill scored comparably to the $4,000 treadmill in several categories and had some of the same features. If you're a walker, it may be more than sufficient to meet your needs.

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