Top 8 Folding Treadmills of 2024: Reviews and Tests

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Most people dream of an equipped home gym with mirrored walls, the right flooring, and top-tier strength training gear. Yet, for most of us, the "home gym" also doubles as an office, a guest room, or even a section of the living room. This means that fitting in large home gym equipment like treadmills, stationary bikes, squat racks, and ellipticals becomes a logistical nightmare.

Fortunately, you can solve this space problem using compact folding treadmills which can be stored out of sight when not in use. To help you choose a treadmill that's perfect for your lifestyle, we tested some of the most popular models on the market for several weeks. Our focus was on their overall quality and their ability to fold up efficiently. Here are our picks for top folding treadmills.

Specifications: 76'L x 37'W x 63'H | Max speed: 12 mph | Max incline: 15% | Weight capacity: 350 pounds

If you think that folding treadmills can’t compete with their full-sized counterparts in terms of premium features, the Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT Treadmill will prove you wrong. This treadmill impressed us with its high-end functions, quick Bluetooth connectivity, and a long, smooth belt. The quick adjust dials were our favourite feature, allowing for rapid speed or incline changes. Even though you may potentially overshoot your target pace, this treadmill offers a much more efficient user experience than endless screen tapping. It also features a spacious 22' x 60' XL deck.

Specifications: 69” L x 31” W X 49” H | Max speed: 12 mph | Max incline: 10% | Weight capacity: 300 pounds

The Echelon Stride Auto-Fold Connected Treadmill provides all necessary features at a reasonable price. This treadmill folds up automatically, reducing the workload on your part, and folds down to a mere 10” for convenient storage. With a max speed of 12 mph, 12 incline levels, and a user-friendly console, it turned out to be perfect for both walking and running workouts. It also operates quietly, so you won't disturb anyone during your workout sessions.

Specifications: 65' L x 29' W x 52' H | Max speed: 12 mph | Max incline: 10% | Weight capacity: 250 pounds

If you're a beginner to exercising and you're interested in a basic and uncomplicated device, the XTERRA Fitness TR Folding Treadmill could be your ideal choice. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it's also straightforward to set up and use. It offers speed up to 10 mph and 10 incline options, along with Bluetooth connectivity. However, the console's inability to hold a water bottle might be a slight inconvenience.

Specifications: 78.5” L x 35.6” W x 65”H | Max speed: 12 mph | Max incline: 12% | Weight capacity: 300 pounds

Our testers highly recommend the Nordictrack Commercial 2450 to avid runners and those willing to spend a bit more for a feature-rich treadmill. Its appealing 22" high-tech touchscreen, integrated cooling fan and built-in speakers greatly enhance your workout experience. The treadmill's cup holders can accommodate large water bottles or even a smartphone. It also offers a variety of options for adjusting speed and incline. However, the folding mechanism does not allow the treadmill to fold up completely upright. Furthermore, it extends a few inches diagonally when folded.

Dimensions: 77'D x 35'W x 60'H | Max speed: 12 mph | Max incline: 12% | Weight capacity: 300 pounds

For those training for medium to long-distance races, the Pro-Form Pro 2000 Smart Treadmill is another excellent choice. This folding treadmill features soft cushioning for reducing joint stress, allowing you to run for longer distances with ease. It reaches up to 12 mph and offers inclines of up to 12%, as well as a unique 3% downhill incline feature. Moreover, its EasyLift Assist enables you to lift the treadmill deck effortlessly.

Dimensions: 76' L x 35' W x 66' H | Max speed: 12 mph | Max incline: 15% | Weight capacity: 325 pounds

The 7.0AT Studio Treadmill is perfect for those who like working out with virtual trainers. Compatible with various workout streaming apps, including Peloton, Zwift, STUDIO, and Nike Run Club, this folding treadmill also supports popular entertainment apps. However, when folded, its belt sticks out a bit, making it less compact than other models.

Dimensions: 78' L x 37.6'W x 62.8'H | Max speed: 12 mph | Max incline: 15% | Weight capacity: 300 pounds

The Bowflex BXT8J Treadmill stands out for its ease of use. It allows for quick speed or incline adjustments, is impressively quiet, and has an easy folding process. However, its emergency stop key was found to be overly sensitive and prone to accidental dislodging. Lack of Bluetooth connectivity for music was another noted drawback.

Dimensions: 78.5"D x 36"W x 65"H | Max speed: 12 mph | Max incline: 15% | Weight capacity: 300 pounds

The Nordictrack 1250 Folding Treadmill comes with automatic adjustment and progression features, enhancing the user's challenge and concentration level during workouts. It is well-suited for both beginners and goal-oriented trainees. Nonetheless, it is relatively larger than most folding treadmills and needs a dedicated space for convenient use.

Kristen Geil, the senior fitness editor at Shape, is an NASM-certified personal trainer and marathoner who frequently reviews fitness products. She led the Best in Fitness Awards, the industry's largest awards program, and scrutinized nomination procedures for 170 product categories, including large home gym equipment like treadmills.