One challenge that some people face after deciding to buy a treadmill is finding a suitable place in their home to put it, especially if you have limited space. This one area where compact treadmills can be extremely helpful.
Compact treadmills can be used in small condos, apartments, or even small unused areas in your house. These treadmills are also great for seniors. Because these kinds of treadmills are relatively inexpensive, lightweight, and often portable, you can move them on your own and store them in places like a closet without any difficulty.
Though compact treadmills don’t tend to be very pricey, you have to be careful, because not all of them will last. The quality tends to be on the low end, and in some cases may make rattling sounds, shake, or break down with occasional use after a few months. This is why I have selected some quality models to recommend in this article.
Just because your home treadmill is compact, doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be sturdy and able to withstand the basic wear and tear that comes with using them. They should have the features you require so you can hit your fitness goals. Each of the compact treadmills on this list has been evaluated by dimensions, top speed, motor horsepower, weight capacity, incline range, and price.
Compact Treadmill Reviews
1. Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill Series
As one of the best-selling cheap compact treadmills on the market today, this treadmill was created to help you get more results in less time. Keep in mind that this particular treadmill isn’t for running; it’s for walking quickly or jogging. If that’s all you’re looking for, just something to help you get your heart rate up, with very few bells and whistles, then this might be the right model for you.
Because this machine was created primarily for walking and jogging, it has a relatively narrow tread belt. Though you can increase the speed to 10 miles per hour, and with the 2.5 CHP you’re probably going to want to keep it lower than that so that your feet don’t hit the frame outside of the belt. Though 2.5 CHP motor is enough to get you running, you’ll need a very tight form to keep on the track.
The Weslo Cadence does have some good features for models in its price range. It comes with a 2-position manual incline, Comfort Cell Cushioning to keep your workout low impact, and 6 workout programs in the console designed by a personal trainer. There’s a lot of nice-to-have features that are missing from this model like Bluetooth connectivity, speakers, and other entertainment options.
But if you’re someone on a tight budget that just wants to go for a jog or a brisk walk, and doesn’t want to go outside, this treadmill is in the lead for the best compact treadmill.
Click here for my full review of the Welso Cadence G 5.9.
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2. XTERRA Fitness Folding Treadmill Black
The XTERRA Fitness Folding Treadmill isn’t exactly a commercial-grade machine, but it is sturdy and one of the best compact treadmills you can pick up the price. Made of steel tubing, this light-capacity treadmill was built to support users of up to 250 lbs.
Thought this treadmill isn’t a commercial-grade machine, it is still relatively heavy when assembled at 108 lbs. It comes with wheels built-in to the base so you can roll it into the next room as desired.
The belt on this model is heavy duty and slip-resistant, meant for jogging or walking. One thing to remember is that if you are taller than 6 ft, you may not get a satisfying stride when using this treadmill.
The deck of this treadmill has been equipped with a cushioning system called the XTRASoft, which includes three shock absorption elements. This reduces the impact of each step on your joints by up to 20%. The unit’s incline is made possible with the adjustable rear stabilizers, locked in place with pop pins.
This treadmill has a 2.25 CHP motor, which was created to withstand long jogging sessions. Because the motor is basic, it consumes less power. The console comes with 12 built-in workout programs, but it does not include Bluetooth and will not sync with any fitness apps. This treadmill comes with the deck assembled, leaving the console masts to be connected and wired.
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3. Confidence Fitness Confidence Power Trac Treadmill
Like the other compact treadmills in this list, this is another foldable treadmill built for only walking or jogging. This machine is ideal if you’re looking for something compact that will help you develop a light cardio regimen.
With a small motor and a narrow running surface, this is another treadmill that wasn’ t really created for training for something like a marathon.
With a 735W, 1HP motor providing top speeds of up to 6.2 mph, and a manually adjustable incline, you can get a very brisk jog on this machine.
The on-board computer allows you to track key data such as distance, speed, calories burned, and time.
This treadmill comes with a grippy running belt with a reinforced deck for a better running experience. There are 4 preset speeds and 12 built-in programs. And of course, one of the more desirable features of this particular foldable treadmill is easy storage when not in use.
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4. SereneLife Smart Digital Folding Exercise Machine
The SereneLife Smart Digital Folding Exercise Machine comes with selectable preset training modes to adjust the speed and intensity of your workout. With a link to the FitShow sports app to add excitement to your workout sessions.
The Bluetooth connectivity allows you to sync data from your treadmill with your tablets, phones, and laptops. With the app to record your data, you also have access to personalized workouts, competitions, and more.
The LCD display allows you to monitor different training statistics, including distance, speed, calories burned, run time, and heart rate. It includes a smart device holder for your tablet or phone.
Built for portability and simple storage, this treadmill comes with a motor of 1HP, has a simple electric plug-in design, and grip sensors to monitor your pulse.
There is an extended running deck on this model for extra space, supporting a user of up to 265 lbs.
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5. Merax-MS020307BAA Assembly Treadmill Motorized
This is one of the least expensive treadmills on the market for your home gym, and it has all the essential features you might require for a good workout. Just like many other treadmills in this list, this Merax folding treadmill is not meant for high-intensity workouts. Its small motor only goes between 0.62 to 6.2 mph, while there are three levels of incline you can adjust manually.
With the built-in LCD display, you can track your workout information. Some of the information that you can monitor include distance, speed, time, calories burned, and if you hold the pulse grips, heart rate. It includes an emergency stop key clip for safety reasons, that will make the treadmill stop in case you have an accident.
There are three included workout programs, two of them predefined, and one remaining to be customized by you. When this treadmill folds up, it only takes up 25 inches so you can save space. Perfect for a small home and an apartment, you can use the transport wheels on the bottom to move this machine from one room to the next.
Again, this machine is mostly for people who want to jog or walk, but not much more. There have been some reported drawbacks to this machine from some buyers, and you can imagine it to be the case with such a low cost model. But for a compact treadmill with the basic features you need, it has most of the things you’ll need.
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6. Confidence Power Plus Motorized Treadmill
For another very compact option for an affordable price, you might also take a look at the Confidence Power Plus Motorized Treadmill for home use. This treadmill is appropriate for walking or light jogging and won’t take up a ton of space wherever you decide to set it up. The console is relatively standard, displaying information such as distance, time, calories burned, and speed. Unfortunately, it includes no defined workout programs.
While some compact treadmills in the same price range are manually propelled, this treadmill comes with a motorized electric platform. The included 600W motor can reach maximum speeds of 6.2 mph.
More experienced athletes will likely feel that this model is a little too slow for an intense workout. With this treadmill, it’s important to keep in mind that you’d be able to get many more features were you to only spend $100 more.
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7. LifeSpan Fitness-TR5000 DT3 Under Desk Treadmill
This is one of the finest compact treadmills you can buy. This machine was created to be used at a standing desk in an office environment, as it is whisper quiet. It includes a maintenance-free walking belt, black aluminum side rails, and a 3.0 HP motor. This model comes with a control console that displays distance, time, steps, speed, and calories burned.
This treadmill was built at a low 4.6 Inch height to help you get the optimal ergonomic position from your standing desk. The compact size ensures easy placement with the front-mounted wheels and low profile design. The maintenance-free habasit walking belt will provide for worry-free long hard-working days and nights.
The premium components employed in the construction of this machine were meant to subdue vibration and suppress mechanical noise to prevent you from bothering the people around you, and keep you focused on your work. Some of the other interesting innovations in this machine include the Intelli-Guard safety feature to ensure the machine only operates when you intend to be using it. It also has integrated step counting and customizable personal settings.
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8. NordicTrack T Series Treadmills (6.5S & 6.5Si Models)
Hello, affordable NordicTrack treadmill. As an update to the discontinued 6.5S, this model brings some enviable features for a modest price increase. The draw with this machine is the patented SpaceSaver design paired with EasyLift Assist Technologyfor home use.
Unlike many of the other treadmills in this list, this machine has a commercial-grade motor with a 2.6 continuous duty. The deck is furnished with FlexSelect cushioning which can be adjusted to your preferences. With a speed capacity topping out at 10 miles per hour, you can increase the intensity even more by modifying the incline in your workout space.
A noteworthy improvement over the previous model, the 6.5 Si comes with a year’s membership to iFit, which means that the speed and incline can be modified by live coaches. The interactive coaching system provides live classes, in which your coach can make personalized adjustments to your machine. On top of that, there are 20 onboard workout programs included with the system should decide to let your iFit subscription lapse.
This treadmill has an HD touchscreen console for monitoring fitness details. Though there are no built-in fans, there are adequately-sized cup-holders. It comes with an auxiliary audio input and built-in speakers, but there is no on-board USB port for charging your devices.
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9. GoPlus Under Desk Treadmill
With heavy-duty construction, the GoPlus Under Desk Treadmill was built to withstand over 220 pounds of pressure. The compact size of the machine allows you to store it in most desired locations around your home. You can put it under your sofa, under your bed, at the bottom of your wardrobe, wherever you have a small amount of space.
Like many other compact treadmills in this list, it is not meant for running, but brisk walking. You can adjust the speed of your step from 0.5 to 4 mph, depending on your current fitness level. Included with this treadmill are 12 easy to use exercise programs to help you burn fat, improve your cardiovascular fitness, and burn fat.
This treadmill comes with 3 safety pedals to keep your workouts safe during exercise. The rubber struts and the footpads can reduce the noise and vibrations of the machine on the floor. The treadmill can be immediately stopped with the emergency brake button, so you can exercise with confidence and safety.
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10. The Best Pre-Assembled Treadmill - Goplus Electric Folding Treadmill
These compact treadmills can expand and fold in a matter of seconds. With flexible wheels you can easily move it out of the way and into storage. The vertical folding design takes up less space than other portable treadmills. And all you have to do is modify the rubber screw on the bottom of the deck to adjust the incline.
Featuring an LED Touch Screen and a Hi-Fi Sound System, you can use the Mp3 audio input or the USB port to listen to music. The monitor allows you to view your heart rate, calories burned, exercise time, distance, and speed.
Included in the console are 99 motion programs as well as 3 different movement modes.
This treadmill also features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to make adjustments to your workout using an app. For safety, there is a safety key you can clip to your clothes in case of emergency, it will turn of the machine. A wireless heartbeat strap is also included to check your rate while exercising.
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Buying Guide for Compact Treadmills
After examining all of the treadmills in this list, you might want to know a little more about what kind of criteria was used to select them.
I chose the items that I found were more affordable, so most of these are entry-level to mid-range machines. The higher-grade treadmills with commercial motors aren’t so compact and might not be so easy to fold for your home gym.
Here are some of the considerations that I feel make a great compact treadmill:
- Quality Build - There are more than a few cheap treadmills to be found online. They’re not even worth buying as many of them will malfunction soon after purchase. I have selected treadmills that are supported by companies that I feel are reputable and many of them come with warranties so you can purchase with confidence.
- Belt Length - There tends to be a bit of a trade off when it comes to the compact size of a treadmill and the length and width of the belt. A longer belt is important when you might need more room to run or jog. Most of the treadmills this list have been chosen for people of average height. If you are taller than 6 ft, you might not find them as suitable.
- Features - When buying a treadmill, you’re also going to want a number of features that will make your experience more pleasurable. Some of the possible items that you might look for include workout programs and workout data, fans, cup holders, easy controls, and more.
- Folding Design - Always make sure to check the measurements on a treadmill before you purchase it. In some cases, a treadmill might end up being bigger than you expected, so make sure you have an idea about what size you’d like and how it compares to the item you’re reviewing online. In this round up review, most of the treadmills included have a folding design, except the ones created for standing desks.
Question and Answers
What is the best small treadmill?
I would recommend the XTERRA Fitness Folding Treadmilll Black.
What is the best portable treadmill?
As one of the lightest treadmills in this list, I would recommend the SereneLife Smart Digital Folding Exercise Machine.
Conclusion
Using the reviews in this list to consider the best compact treadmills of 2020, you should be able to make an informed choice when it comes to making a purchase. If you aren’t satisfied with the items listed here, feel free to check out some of the following items.