Best Treadmill 2026: Complete Buying Guide
We tested treadmills from budget to premium. Here are the ones that deliver.
Our Treadmill Picks
Best Treadmills 2026
NordicTrack Commercial X32i
32" touchscreen | -6% to 40% incline | 4.25 HP
$4,499
+ $39/mo iFIT
The X32i is the most capable treadmill available. The 32-inch touchscreen is immersive. -6% decline to 40% incline simulates any terrain. 22-inch wide belt gives room to move. iFIT auto-adjusts speed and incline during trainer-led workouts. Commercial-grade 4.25 HP motor handles any user.
Strengths
- + Massive 32" touchscreen
- + -6% to 40% incline range
- + 22" wide belt
- + Auto-adjusting workouts
- + Commercial-grade motor
Consider If
- - Very expensive
- - Requires iFIT subscription
- - Does not fold
- - Heavy (455 lbs)
$6,299.99
Peloton Tread
23.8" screen | 12.5% incline | 3.0 HP
$3,495
+ $44/mo All-Access
Peloton's instructors and community are unmatched. The Tread has a responsive slat belt that feels great underfoot. 23.8-inch HD screen with excellent sound. Running form classes help you improve technique. If you're bought into Peloton's ecosystem, the Tread is excellent.
Strengths
- + Best-in-class instructors
- + Slat belt is easy on joints
- + Excellent build quality
- + Strong community
- + Premium sound system
Consider If
- - Lower max incline (12.5%)
- - No decline option
- - Expensive subscription
- - No auto-adjust for speed
Sole F80
9" LCD | 15% incline | 3.5 HP | Folding
$1,699
No subscription required
The Sole F80 is the smart choice for runners who don't need a fancy screen. Solid 3.5 HP motor and 22" wide belt handle serious running. Cushion Flex Whisper Deck reduces joint impact. Folds for storage. Excellent warranty (lifetime frame/motor, 5-year parts). No subscription required.
Strengths
- + No subscription required
- + Excellent durability
- + Folds for storage
- + Great warranty
- + Quality cushioning
Consider If
- - Basic 9" LCD screen
- - No touchscreen classes
- - No decline option
ProForm Pro 9000
22" touchscreen | -3% to 12% incline | 3.6 HP
$1,999
+ $39/mo iFIT
The Pro 9000 combines smart features with space-saving folding. 22-inch HD touchscreen with iFIT. SpaceSaver design folds vertically. -3% decline to 12% incline for varied workouts. ProShox cushioning system. Great balance of features and practicality for home gyms.
Strengths
- + 22" touchscreen + folding
- + Decline capability (-3%)
- + Auto-adjusting workouts
- + Good cushioning
Consider If
- - Requires iFIT subscription
- - Lower max incline (12%)
- - 20" belt width (narrower)
Horizon 7.0 AT
Basic display | 15% incline | 3.0 HP
$999
No subscription required
The Horizon 7.0 AT is the best treadmill under $1,000. Solid 3.0 HP motor and 20" x 60" belt. Bluetooth speakers and device holder for streaming your own content. Rapid-charge USB. Folds for storage. Use with any app you prefer - no subscription required.
Strengths
- + Excellent price
- + No subscription required
- + Works with any app
- + Folds for storage
Consider If
- - Basic LCD display
- - No touchscreen
- - Narrower 20" belt
Treadmill Comparison
| Model | Screen | Incline | Motor | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordicTrack X32i | 32" Touch | -6% to 40% | 4.25 HP | $4,499 |
| Peloton Tread | 23.8" Touch | 0% to 12.5% | 3.0 HP | $3,495 |
| Sole F80 | 9" LCD | 0% to 15% | 3.5 HP | $1,699 |
| ProForm Pro 9000 | 22" Touch | -3% to 12% | 3.6 HP | $1,999 |
| Horizon 7.0 AT | Basic LCD | 0% to 15% | 3.0 HP | $999 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best treadmill for 2026?
The NordicTrack X32i is our top pick. It offers a massive 32" screen, -6% to 40% incline, and auto-adjusting workouts. For value without subscriptions, the Sole F80 is excellent.
Is Peloton Tread worth the money?
The Peloton Tread is worth it if you value Peloton's instructor-led classes and community. However, NordicTrack offers similar features for less money, and Sole provides great hardware without subscriptions.
How much should I spend on a home treadmill?
Budget $800-$1,500 for a quality home treadmill. Mid-range costs $1,500-$2,500. Premium smart treadmills cost $2,500-$4,500. Factor in subscription costs ($20-$44/month) for smart treadmills.
What size motor do I need for a treadmill?
For walking, 2.0 HP is sufficient. For jogging, 2.5-3.0 HP. For running and intervals, 3.0+ HP. Heavier users (200+ lbs) should add 0.5 HP to these recommendations.