How We Tested and Chose the Best Walmart Treadmills

After pounding the tread on over 30 treadmills, the BarBend team of marathon runners, certified personal trainers, and CrossFit coaches knows what separates the studs from the duds. We used a multi-point system to score each machine on a scale of 1 (yikes) to 5 (yippee) across 13 categories, including durability, tech capabilities, value, and more.

For more information on how we test products, check out BarBend’s equipment testing methodology and scroll on to take a look at how we built out our list of the best Walmart treadmills.

• Price: In order to accommodate a wide range of features, specs, and budgets, we chose treadmills with current prices that range from $349 to $2,499. On models that push the upper limit of that range, you’ll find immersive touchscreens and less-common capabilities like decline. Treadmills closer to the low end prioritize smaller footprints and more narrow speed and incline ranges.
• Tech Capabilities: Because the onboard technology closely tracks the price range, we made sure to include some no-frills models, as well as the kinds of tech-laden treadmills that Capritto says can spice up your training. “If you are someone who wants to run/walk indoors but finds the treadmill hopelessly boring, opting for one with a TV screen might be your golden ticket to a good time!”
• Incline Range: “If you plan to use your treadmill to train for outdoor events such as a marathon or a hike, incline is essential,” says Capritto. On our list, we included budget-friendly models with limited inclines — around 3 to 9 percent — and pricier models with ranges from -3 to 12 percent.
• Durability: Buying a new treadmill is a big investment, so we only recommended models that have the steel frames and quality builds that we think can stand up to your preferred mode of training. 
• Footprint and Portability: For those short on space, we included a few of the best portable treadmills we’ve tested. All the models on our list range from 103 to 340 pounds, but, as Capritto notes, sometimes a higher overall weight can bring more stability. “The best treadmills tend to weigh 250 pounds or more, because they’re designed to withstand sprinting speeds without wobbling or shaking.”

Best Walmart Treadmill Overall: NordicTrack Commercial 1750

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill

The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is made for the tech-loving runner. This high-tech treadmill features a touchscreen monitor that can tilt and rotate, and offers automatic incline, decline, and speed adjustments based on the workout you choose. 

Why is the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 the best treadmill at Walmart? Because its specs and features read like a Christmas list for serious, tech-savvy runners. Plus, our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto says that its sub-$2,000 price tag only solidifies its place among the best home gym equipment. “The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is a tried-and-true treadmill,” she says. “I truly do think this is one of the best buys for the money.”

With so many boxes checked on her list of must-haves for a quality treadmill, Capritto thinks the 1750 can power some serious training. “It has a 3.5-CHP motor that powers speeds up to 12 miles per hour, allowing the most serious runners to sprint to their heart’s desire,” she says. Our team gave the 1750 a 5 out of 5 for seven of the 12 categories we rated, including adjustability and ergonomics.

Not only can the belt deck on this durable machine dip down to -3 percent decline, the incline and speed ranges can both adjust automatically thanks to iFIT’s SmartAdjust feature. With an iFIT subscription — $39.99 per month after your initial 30-day free trial — you’ll have over 17,000 scenic runs and studio classes at your fingertips via the crystal-clear 14-inch HD touchscreen. 

iFIT’s programming consistently earn 5 out of 5 ratings from our team. Certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1, also noted how the decline on the 1750 maximizes iFIT’s capability. “I did a scenic run on iFIT called Hawaiian Endurance Series, and when my treadmill automatically adjusted into a decline it felt really cool — it was like I was actually in Hawaii, running down the hill I saw on screen,” Meier said. 

However, as Capritto points out, this supercharged treadmill is not a space-saving model. “The main drawback for this machine is its footprint,” she says. Our team rated the 1750’s footprint and portability 3.5 out of 5. “It’s large and heavy, so definitely ensure your space can fit it before purchasing it,” Capritto adds.

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmill Review.

Best Walmart Treadmill Under $1,000: ProForm Carbon TLX

ProForm Carbon TLX

Adjusts up to a 12% grade so that you can feel like you’re hitting real hills. With an iFIT subscription you can hit trails around the world from the comfort of your own home.

Walmart has no shortage of budget-friendly treadmills, but our team thinks the ProForm Carbon TLX is one of the best that we’ve tested. Despite costing around $250 less than the average running treadmill, it still features the 60-inch deck our expert reviewer, Amanda Capritto, recommends for running strides.

“For a commercial treadmill experience at home, you’ll want to look for… [a] motor with at least 3.0 CHP, speeds topping out at 12-15 miles per hour, incline range of up to 12 percent, [and a] large running deck measuring 20 inches wide by 60 inches long,” she says. We think the ProForm Carbon TLX is one of best treadmills under $1,000 because it hits the important benchmarks that Capritto looks for in quality running treadmills.

If those marks look familiar, it’s because you saw them in the TLX’s spec list. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, scored its value 5 out of 5. “At this price, you’re getting such a great machine,” they said.

While its tech capabilities garnered a 4.25 out of 5 from our tester, they were quick to point out that you’ll need to supply the screen to capitalize on its iFIT integration. “Even though there’s no built-in touchscreen — just an LCD display for metrics. Once I got my phone connected, though, I could still use iFIT’s SmartAdjust feature to automatically adjust speed and incline based on my class,” they said.  

Although an iFIT subscription requires an additional $39.99 monthly subscription, BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer Kate Meier thinks its robust library — over 17,000 classes — and the quality of the programming has it nipping at the heels of another popular fitness app. “I’d recommend [iFIT] over basically any other brand’s programming,” she says. “It’s definitely giving Peloton a run for their money.”

Best Folding Walmart Treadmill: Echelon Stride Sport 2

Echelon Stride Sport 2

When folded flat, this treadmill shrinks down to just 6.5 inches high. Its 12-percent incline can diversify your training, plus the Echelon Fit app offers live and on-demand classes.

Echelon’s AutoFold hydraulic system made the Stride Sport 2 a no-brainer as our pick for the best folding Walmart treadmill. Certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member Kate Meier has been auto-folding her own Echelon treadmill flat for years. “Having the capacity to fold flat will make owning a treadmill easier for a lot of people who are short on space,” she said. “It can be stowed away under a bed or just stashed in a corner against the wall.” 

With so many similarities in design and features, she feels that her ratings and experience on the Stride can easily apply to the nearly-identical Stride Sport 2 — like the 5 out of 5 for footprint and portability. “All it takes is pressing two buttons and the hydraulics gently lower the console down to the deck,” Meier explained. “I usually grab the handle and use the two pairs of transport wheels — horizontal and vertical — to roll it into storage.”

Despite its minimal profile, the Stride Sport 2 has a 12-percent incline, a max speed of 10 miles per hour, and a 60-inch cushioned belt deck. You can adjust these settings with the tap of a button, which unlocks interval or hill training. “I also loved the 12 incline settings, along with quick-adjust buttons in the handrails,” Meier noted, rating her Stride’s similar adjustability and ergonomics 5 out of 5.

While the Echelon Fit app is stocked with over 15,000 on-demand workouts, you’ll need to connect your own device via Bluetooth to operate as the screen. Access to this library of classes starts at $11.99, but you’ll need a “Premier” membership for full functionality. Another perk (or shrewd ploy…) is the five-year warranty you’ll get with an active membership. That’s much better than the measly one year of coverage that comes with your purchase.

[Related: Best Folding Treadmills]

Best Walmart Treadmill for Small Spaces: SuperFit 4.75 HP 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill

SuperFit 4.75HP 2 In 1 Folding Treadmill

SuperFit 4.75HP 2 In 1 Folding Treadmill

This compact, budget-friendly treadmill takes up just 12.49 square feet of floor space, plus its handrail can fold down to operate as an under-desk treadmill.

The unique design of the SuperFit 4.75 HP 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill allows it to be used as both a jogging treadmill or a walking pad. Raise the handrail up and you can reach up to 10.5 miles per hour — about a 6-minute-mile pace. Fold it down flat and you can get up to 3 miles per hour while using the remote control to adjust your speed.

Several of our testers (including yours truly) have stepped aboard the 2.25 HP SuperFit model, and while they are identical in a few areas, there are some key differences. For instance, despite measuring about 2 square feet larger than the 2.25 HP model, its 12.49 square-feet footprint only takes up about half the floor space as most treadmills we’ve tested. (recliner)

[Related: Best Compact Exercise Equipment]

The 4.75 HP motor on this SuperFit treadmill powers speeds up to 10.5 miles per hour, but as Capritto notes, the 49-inch running belt may prohibit any intense running workouts. “People who intend to run or sprint on their treadmill should look for a running deck of at least 60 inches in length,” she says.

One area we feel our ratings on the 2.25 HP option apply is IN their identical adjustability and ergonomics — or lack thereof. “There’s no incline function, so that really limits the training you can do,” one of our testers noted, rating its adjustability 3.5 out of 5. “The belt is ‘layered,’ but the deck isn’t cushioned, so there’s not much shock absorption.”

What the SuperFit 4.75 HP and its less-powerful 2.25 HP sibling lack in adjustability, they make up for in value. “For the price, this machine is great for home use and helps work in some moderate cardio to your day,” they said of the 2.25 HP model when rating its value 4.25 of out 5. “It’s been great in my home office and is easily one of the best under-desk treadmills I’ve used.” 

Best Budget Walmart Treadmill: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400

This budget-friendly treadmill can reach up to 10.5 miles per hour and even 4.37-percent incline. Its nine preset workout programs can also provide some structure to your workouts.

At just $349, the Sunny Health & Fitness is one of the best treadmills under $500 we’ve tested. With a 4.3-percent manual incline, 2.2 peak horsepower motor, and nine preset programs on the LCD screen, this well-rounded treadmill can help you break a sweat without breaking the bank.

In fact, our tester, a certified personal trainer, rated their workout experience a 4 out of 5. “I don’t think it’s good for marathon training or anything, but for just staying active and burning a few calories, it brings a lot to the table,” they said. “That said, I’d much sooner call this a walking treadmill than a running treadmill.”

Why is that? Its 49-inch deck falls well short of the 60-inch length BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto recommends for running. “Walkers and joggers can get away with shorter decks, unless they are really tall individuals.” After using it regularly for several months, our tester concurred. “The deck length just isn’t meant for advanced runners,” they said.

What really stood out to our tester, though, was its footprint and portability, which they scored a 5 out of 5. When you fold the deck upright, its 62-inch length shrinks to 36 inches, making it ideal for those tight on space. “The hydraulic soft-drop folding was actually very helpful,” our tester highlighted. “Just give it a tap and it basically lowers itself.”

After trying it out herself, our Capritto noted that anyone scouring Walmart for their first treadmill may have found their match. “It’s one of the least expensive models I’ve ever tried, and I recommend it as a starter treadmill or for people who only plan to use their treadmill occasionally,” she says. 

Read our full Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill Review.

Best Smart Walmart Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 2450

NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill

NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill

The NordicTrack 2450 is one of the most high-tech treadmills on the market. It features a 22-inch touchscreen display that can tilt to your comfort level, and rotate 360 degrees. Your purchase includes a free month of iFIT, and all of your trainer-led classes offer automatic adjustments to the incline, decline, and speed settings.

Between its iFIT integration, automatic speed and incline adjustments, Google Maps-powered routes, Bluetooth speakers — oh yeah, and the 22-inch HD touchscreen — calling the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 “smart” is quite the understatement. Tech capabilities, dynamic programming, customizations, and adjustability all earned ratings of 5 out of 5 from multiple testers on our team.

Jake Herod, NASM-CNC, also noted the high-tech experience the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 can provide when he took it for a spin in the BarBend gym. Check out the highlights (and lowlights) in his review below. 

With such a huge display, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 is easily one of the best treadmills with screens. “Streaming iFIT classes on that huge touchscreen is truly immersive,” said one tester, a CrossFit Level-1 trainer. “I loved the running classes and I was even able to tilt and pivot the screen to take strength and yoga classes off to the side.” With over 17,000 on-demand workouts at the ready, it’s no surprise that iFIT’s programming consistently earns scores of 5 out of 5 from our team.

While you can easily tap the quick-select buttons to adjust your speed and incline, iFIT’s SmartAdjust takes hands-free training to another level. During select classes, the speed and incline of your machine can automatically change to match the terrain of your scenic workout or respond to your trainer’s instruction in a studio class. 

Our tester also noted how its ActivePulse technology can make adjustments based on your target heart rate. 

As BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto pointed out, a lot of commercial treadmills can gobble up floor space — the 2450 earned a 3 out of 5 for footprint and portability. However, she said that while some folding treadmills may omit key features in the name of saving space, the 2450 is not one of them. 

“Take the NordicTrack Commercial 2450, for instance,” she says. “It has a 3.6 CHP motor, 22-inch touchscreen display, incline and decline, and RunnersFlex deck cushioning, and it still folds up to free up precious floor space.”

Read our full NordicTrack Commercial 2450 Treadmill Review.

Benefits of Walmart Treadmills

Aside from their value, tech capabilities, and diverse training options, BarBend expert reviewer says that at-home treadmills can cut out the middleman: the gym. 

“​​Home treadmills offer the opportunity to run and walk in the comfort of your own home,” she says. Check out a few of the benefits of the best Walmart treadmills.

• Free Shipping: Walmart will ship each of these treadmills for free. Some also come with options for expert assembly (at an additional charge).
• Additional Coverage: Along with the manufacturers’ warranties, Walmart offers additional three- and four-year protection plans that cover the following: mechanical and electrical failures; item failures during normal use or from normal wear and tear; and other common malfunctions.
• Convenience: Without having to worry about inclement weather, commute to a gym, or find a babysitter, home treadmills can remove some of the barriers to regular cardio exercise. “This can be particularly beneficial in situations in which walking and running outdoors isn’t safe, such as in bad weather or where there isn’t a pedestrian-friendly infrastructure,” says BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto. “Having a treadmill at home may encourage a person to exercise more frequently, which is almost always a good thing.”
• Incline and Decline Training: Anyone planning to train for hikes or even marathons can benefit from the variety that the best incline treadmills can unlock. As Capritto notes, Walmart offers running machines with limited and expansive ranges. “Budget-friendly models typically have incline ranges of 3 to 9 percent, while more cash can get you from 9 to 15 percent.”
• Onboard Technology: Firing up virtual workouts or entertainment on a built-in touchscreen or compatible mobile device could be the at-home fitness boost you’ve been looking for. “Having the opportunity to watch a movie or TV show while exercising can be the ticket to motivation for many people,” says Capritto. Walmart also offers exercise machines with Bluetooth audio and LED displays that can display basic stats. 

How Much Do Walmart Treadmills Cost?

From decline capability and huge touchscreens to foldability and slim profiles, treadmills at Walmart cover a wide range of features. The $349 to $2,499 price range reflects that diversity of options. Take a look at how much the best Walmart treadmills might set you back.

Best Walmart Treadmill Overall	NordicTrack Commercial 1750	$1,999
Best Walmart Treadmill Under $1,000	ProForm Carbon TLX	$949
Best Folding Walmart Treadmill	Echelon Stride Sport 2	$598
Best Walmart Treadmill for Small Spaces	SuperFit 4.75HP 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill	$399
Best Budget Walmart Treadmill	Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400	$349
Best Smart Walmart Treadmill	NordicTrack Commercial 2450	$2,499

What to Consider Before Buying a Walmart Treadmill

Before snagging a new machine from Walmart, our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto recommends establishing the kind of treadmill workouts you want to tackle, then familiarizing yourself with what’s out there. “Any treadmill can suffice for walking and maybe light jogging, but not every treadmill will perform for running, sprinting, and hill training.”

“Treadmills come in motorized and manual options; with and without touchscreen displays; large and compact models; tech-infused and basic designs,” she adds. “Finding a treadmill that’s just right for your needs–your Goldilocks–will require some research and knowledge of treadmill specifications.”

Intended Training 

Whether you plan to add a few steps to your daily count or are training for your latest marathon (why don’t ya brag about it…), make sure the features and specs on your treadmill matches your fitness goals. If you plan on doing more than walking, Capritto recommends double-checking the measurements of the belt deck.

“A comfortable running deck for walking is 16 to 20 inches wide by 50 to 55 inches long,” she says. “For running, and especially sprinting, you’ll want a deck of 20 inches wide by 60 inches long.”

Programming 

If you experience any trouble with motivation or how to structure your own home workout, most treadmills at least offer a handful of preset workouts to provide some structure. Capritto also notes that integrated programming from the best fitness apps may be a good option. 

“Many treadmills come with large screens to stream fitness classes, such as Peloton and iFIT,” she points out. “These smart treadmills are more expensive, but the immersive component can keep you motivated to exercise. I wouldn’t call it a necessity, but it’s definitely a fun perk.”

Available Space 

While some compact treadmills are designed to be space savers, many treadmills can gobble up large amounts of floor space — think anywhere from recliner to two-seater sofa. (2) Capritto says that it’s worth it to dig out your tape measure and plan out where your new treadmill will live. “Check the overall length, width, and height of the machine in its assembled position and folded position if applicable,” she says. “And triple-measure your space to make sure it will fit!”

Portability

Don’t let the thumbnail images on Walmart’s website fool you — treadmills are bulky pieces of machinery. Consider how often you’ll need to relocate your machine because, as Capritto highlights, it can be tough to do on your own. “If you need a treadmill that you can move on your own, you’ll likely need something that weighs less than 200 pounds and has mounted transport wheels,” she says.  

While more budget-friendly models may be lightweight and easy to move, many of the best high-end treadmills can push 250 pounds or more. All of the treadmills on our list either fold upright or completely flat, reducing their footprints by roughly half. Consider whether a foldable electric treadmill might help you maximize your space.

Walmart Treadmills FAQs

What is the best Walmart treadmill?

Our top pick for the best Walmart treadmill was a bit of a no-brainer: the NordicTrack Commercial 1750. With a -3-percent decline and 22-inch HD touchscreen, it’s designed to get the most out of its onboard fitness app, iFIT. Between the auto-incline feature and Google Maps integration, this well-rounded treadmill is one of the best out there.

Which treadmills are the most reliable?

In our years of running, jogging, and walking on over 30 treadmills, we’ve found that treadmills from brands like NordicTrack and ProForm are durable and provide a variety of training options. Other budget-friendly options from companies like Sunny Health & Fitness may lack the technology of higher-priced machines, but have also proved to be reliable treadmills.

How do I choose a treadmill for my weight?

Most treadmills feature weight capacities around 300 pounds, so your first step is to find that specification. Smaller or more budget-friendly options may not quite reach that threshold, but higher-end models can even exceed it. Make sure to look for a machine that supports your body type and desired training.

What size treadmill is best for running?

As our expert reviewer Amanda Capritto explains, the best treadmills for running feature a belt deck at least 60 inches long. “Shorter individuals may be able to get away with a shorter deck; taller individuals may need to look for a deck even longer than 60 inches, although this can be tough to find and will cost you more money,” she explains. “As for width, 20 to 22 inches is ideal in order to accommodate arm motion while running and potential side-to-side movement that can occur when sprinting.”

References

1. Minasian, K. (2018b, September 7). How to measure your space for a recliner. Living Spaces. https://www.livingspaces.com/inspiration/ideas-advice/shopping-basics/how-to-measure-your-space-for-a-recliner 
2. Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/