Are you tired of letting your budget keep you from achieving your fitness goals? Well, I have some excellent news for you: affordable treadmills exist!
That’s right; you don’t have to break the bank to get a quality machine that will help you meet the American Heart Association’s advised 150 minutes of exercise per week.
Whether you’re looking for a primary machine or one with some features that will help you maximize your workouts at home, we’ve got you covered.
There are so many great options that figuring out where to start can take time. I put together this list of the best treadmills under $500.
With a budget-friendly treadmill, you can take your home workout space to the next level and improve your overall health.
So, let’s dive in and explore the world of affordable treadmills that can be a game-changer for your fitness journey!
Top 5 Best Treadmills under $400
The best 5 treadmills under $400 that you should consider are:
- Best Overall Treadmill Under $400: Sunny Health and Fitness (SF-T4400) Treadmill
- Best Small Space Treadmill Under $400: SereneLife Folding Treadmill
- Best Incline Treadmill Under $400: XTERRA Fitness TR150
- Best Folding Treadmill under $400: GoPlus 2-in-1 Treadmill
- Best Under Desk Treadmill under $400: Sperax Treadmill
Overview:
| Features | Sunny Health and Fitness Treadmill | SereneLife Folding Treadmill | XTERRA Fitness TR150 | GoPlus 2-in-1 Treadmill | Sperax Treadmill |
| Weight | 103 pounds | 75 pounds | 108 pounds | 75 pounds | 88 pounds |
| Speed | 0.5 – 9 miles per hour | 1-6 miles per hour | 0.5 – 10 miles per hour | 0.5-7.5 miles per hour | 0.5-7.5 miles per hour |
| Foldable | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Motor | 2.2 horsepower | 1.5 horsepower | 2.25 horsepower | 2.25 horsepower | 2.5 horsepower |
| Weight limit | 220 pounds | 275 pounds | 250 pounds | 265 pounds | 220 pounds |
| Running belt size | 16 inches X 43.3 inches | 16 x 43.3 inches | 16″ x 50″ (LxW) | 16″ x 40″ (LxW) | 16.5″ x 45.7″ (LxW) |
| Warranty | 3-year frame warranty, 6-month parts warranty | 3 months | 1-year motor warranty, 90-day parts warranty | Not specified | 1-year warranty |
If you’re in the market for budget home gym equipment, it’s essential to consider the quality of the equipment. A high-quality treadmill can be purchased on a budget.
To assist you in selecting the finest inexpensive treadmill for your space, our team of knowledgeable product experts has tested dozens of treadmills.
I consider factors such as the running belt’s width and length, the motor’s horsepower, incline percentage, and weight capacity with user-friendly features such as LED display and remote control.
Our testers put these treadmills through rigorous testing to ensure they suit both beginners and advanced users.
Our unbiased reviews and in-depth testing allow you to decide what best suits your needs without breaking your wallet!
1. Sunny Health and Fitness (SF-T4400) Treadmill
The Sunny Health SF-T4400 treadmill is popular in the sub-$400 price range. With three incline levels, this treadmill provides an extra challenge to your cardio workout and can help you burn more calories while working for different muscle groups.
This machine is featured packed with nine built-in workout programs, handlebars, heartbeat sensors, and a shock-absorbing system, and the running belt size is perfect at such a price range.
This machine is also intelligent for weight loss objectives because incline workouts are excellent for calorie burning during cardio sessions.
This will help you in an intensive workout on your calves, glutes, hamstring, and many other muscles.
Features:
- Product dimensions — 62″x 25.5″ x 50″ (LxWxH)
- Folded size — 36″ X 25.5″ X 58″ (LxWxH)
- Weight —- 103 pounds.
- Speed – 0.5 – 9 miles per hour.
- Max user height – 6 feet 1 inch.
- Foldable — Yes
- Motor – 2.2 horsepower
- Weight limit– 220 pounds
- Running belt size – 16 inches X 43.3 inches
- Warranty — 3-year frame and six months warranty on parts and other components.
The SF-T4400 boasts a long-running belt of 50 inches, which is unreal to find in such a price range. This is great for taller users needing help with shorter belts on other budget treadmills.
The compact size and foldable design make it an attractive choice for those with limited space, such as apartment dwellers.
The nine pre-set programs will give you extra challenges to increase your fitness level and sense of accomplishment.
The sound of the motor is quiet, which can help you make phone calls or watch TV while exercising without any disturbance from any noise.
You don’t have to be worried about your knees or back. The deck cushioning feature protects the joints and provides extra comfort while working out.
The treadmill also comes with a USB port, which can help you charge your smartphone while running on the treadmill. It is excellent for people with less space or who live in an apartment, as the treadmill can fold easily.
After testing this treadmill, I loved its incline feature the most. It was so good for muscles making my different body parts. It is suitable for your hamstrings or calves.
The deck cushioning feature reduces the 40% pressure on your joints, which I have felt while working out.
I also enjoyed the small details, such as controlling the speed from buttons on the bars of the treadmill. The treadmill has a perfect design, which is suitable for everyone.
The size of the treadmill is perfect, and it can fit in any corner or room, so you can easily store it after using this machine.
The only thing I didn’t like about it was that it might not be as good as it should have been for heavyweight people as its weight limit is 220 pounds.
However, there is nothing better than this treadmill under $400, which is why this is my top preference after using it intensively.
Pros:
- Manual incline options.
- Easily foldable.
- Compact size.
- Soft cushioning.
- Holders for water bottles and smartphones.
Cons:
- Less weight capacity for heavyweight people.
- The decline option is not available.
2. SereneLife Folding Treadmill
Serenelife is a relatively new company that has made waves in the low-cost cardio market. Their entry-level treadmill is an excellent option for those on a budget and with limited space.
Assembly is quick and easy, taking only 10 minutes, and the machine is fuss-free. Despite its compact size, the treadmill doesn’t lack features—it boasts a large backlit LCD screen and 16 built-in workout programs that can be programmed according to your needs.
The only downside to this compact design is that it has no storage space for shoes or other accessories; however, if you don’t plan on using any accessories, this should be fine!
Features:
- Product dimensions – 54.73” x 26.78” x 49.61” (LxWxH)
- Weight – 75 pounds
- Speed: 1-6 miles per hour
- Weight limit – 275 pounds
- Integrated programs – 16s
- Foldable –- Yes.
- Motor – 1.5 horsepower
- Running belt size – 16 x 43.3 inches
Despite its small size (43″ x 16″), this model still has plenty going on under its hood. It features an automatic incline adjustment system that allows users to set their incline levels based on their fitness level.
There’s also an electronic belt tensioner built into each side rail, ensuring consistent tension throughout usage, so it will be smooth no matter what happens during your run.
After testing this SereneLife Folding Treadmill at a gym, I was impressed with its soft drop cushioning deck, which is a big plus for anyone using treadmills at gyms.
The motor was quiet enough for me to talk to someone on call without any disturbance, and the treadmill itself is very lightweight, making it easy to move around when needed.
However, I did find some drawbacks, such as the running belt being too short for my 6’3″ friend. I felt sweaty, and there was no cooling fan for me to relax a bit.
Also, I asked the gym owner about its assembly, and he told me it could be challenging for any average athlete.
Pros:
- Soft-drop cushioning deck.
- Lightweight.
- Quiet motor.
- More prominent display for less price.
Cons:
- The running belt is short.
- It might be challenging to set up.
- No cooling system.
3. XTERRA Fitness TR150
The XTERRA Fitness TR150 folding treadmill is an excellent machine for someone looking to add a treadmill to their home gym without needing decent, affordable options. Check out the XTERRA Fitness TR150.
Our severe athletes and equipment specialists evaluated and reviewed many models to select the best treadmill. Under $500, this machine delivers high-quality performance with all its features included, plus a few more that make it stand out from other machines in its price range.
This model has been designed by experienced fitness professionals who know what you need from your workout equipment daily!
Features:
- Product dimensions – 63.4″ L x 28.75″ W x 51.4″ H
- Weight – 97 pounds.
- Weight limit – 250 pounds.
- Speed: 0.5 – 10 miles per hour.
- Integrated programs – 12
- Foldable –- Yes.
- Motor – 2.25 horsepower
- Running belt size – 16 x 43.3 inches
- Warranty: Lifetime Frame Warranty, One Year Motor, Three months other parts.
The 5 inches LED display provides straightforward but important facts throughout your workout (e.g., time remaining).
It also automatically displays heart rate readings every 10 seconds thanks to its motion sensors; however, users report that these readings are frequently inaccurate, so check yours before pressing start!
After testing the XTERRA Fitness TR150, I was impressed by its built quality and reliability for its price range. It has not malfunctioned, and I have used it for two months.
However, it is thin and lacks cushioning—so every step you take feels loud. The treadmill might not be a good choice for your living room if quiet floors are essential, but it’s great for someone who does fast-paced walking or needs a machine that can handle more weight than others (250 pounds).
As it is better for heavyweight people, you must remember it has a smaller running space area, so if you are under 6 feet, this treadmill is for you.
The belt is made of cheap and thin material, so stepping on it feels like walking heavily through the mud.
Overall, I would give this machine a 4-star.
Pros:
- Low cost.
- Three inline positions.
- Integrated heart-rate monitor.
- Easy assembly.
- Built with high-quality.
Cons:
- It might be challenging to assemble.
- Lesser running belt size.
4. GoPlus 2-in-1 Treadmill
You will be glad to know that there are many benefits associated with owning a GoPlus 2-in-1 treadmill. For example, it can help you lose weight and keep fit without expensive equipment or gym memberships.
GoPlus Treadmill is a well-built and quiet desk treadmill that allows you to work during phone calls without being distracted by the noise of its motor.
GoPlus 2-in-1 allows you to walk under your desk after making some inclination settings at 4 miles per hour for a light workout or 10–16 miles per hour for more intense cardio.
Features:
- Product dimensions – 49x 27x 42 inches (LxWxH)
- Weight – 70 pounds
- Speed – 0.5 – 8 miles per hour.
- Foldable — Yes.
- Motor – 2.25 horsepower
- Integrated programs — 0
- Weight limit — 275 pounds.
- Running belt size – 16 x 40 inches
- Warranty — Three-month warranty.
The hassle-free design of this treadmill, combined with its small footprint and easy foldability, makes it perfect for people who live in small spaces. And best of all–there’s no assembly required!
It’s also great for helping people improve their cardiovascular health because they don’t have to worry about injuring themselves during workouts.
It has been designed with safety features such as automatic speed adjustment and incline adjustability options.
GoPlus Treadmill offers 2.5 horsepower and a 40-inch belt length for light cardio workouts. The GoPlus treadmill provides a comfortable and smooth workout experience, so you can focus on your health while staying productive at home.
After testing this treadmill, I was impressed that this folding treadmill came fully assembled, and you don’t have to improve at putting things together.
However, I was disappointed that the remote control had no battery.
Before purchasing this treadmill, remember that it has no decline/incline feature and even a tiny running surface area. Make sure to check your height accordingly.
Another thing which I didn’t like was that the handlebars needed to be adjustable. It was frustrating for me. However, I still give the treadmill a 4+ star rating because of its compact size and quiet motor.
Pros:
- Compact in size.
- Foldable.
- Quiet motor.
- Easy assembly and transportation.
Cons:
- No incline/ or decline feature.
- Small running belt size.
- Handles are not adjustable.
5. Sperax Treadmill
Introducing the innovative 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill by Sperax, perfect for those looking to maximize their fitness routine and save space simultaneously.
This treadmill is designed to serve two purposes: a treadmill for quick running and an under-the-table walking machine for continuous exercise at work.
This treadmill’s broad, non-slip running belt gives users additional mobility while running or walking. Significant cushioning for your knees, muscles, and joints is also provided by the five layers of non-slip running straps and spinal support.
Features:
- Product dimensions – 50 x 20.8 x 40 inches (LxWxH)
- Weight – 40 pounds.
- Speed – 12 kilometres per hour.
- Foldable — Yes.
- Motor – 1 horsepower.
- Integrated programs — 1
- Weight limit — 280 pounds.
- Running belt size – 16 x 43 inches
- Warranty — None.
In real-time, you can quickly track your pace, distance traveled during exercise, and calories burned during workouts.
With the multifunction LED display, you can see all relevant data simultaneously without needing manual changes when exercising.
There’s no need to manually change settings like speed or stop buttons because everything is controlled via a remote.
The product dimensions are 50 “D x 20.8” W x 40 “H; the maximum weight capacity is 290 pounds, and the maximum deck length is 43 inches.
After testing the Sperax Treadmill at one of my friend’s homes, I noticed that its mobility makes it easy to store when not in use and allows quick movement when needed.
Although the treadmill is designed for low-impact exercise and can help you burn calories while working out, it’s important to note that this model may not withstand running or jogging.
I wouldn’t say I liked the feature that the speed was being shown in Kph and not Mph, which is in most treadmills.
The less running surface area size might be a big problem for taller users. If you are taller, look for other options on our website. I recommend the Sperax Treadmill to anyone who wants to stay active while working from home.
Pros:
- Lightweight.
- Quiet motor.
- Doesn’t require assembly.
Cons:
- Less running surface area size.
- Speed is measured in Kph and not Mph.
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Benefits of Treadmill Under $400.
Treadmills are a prominent choice for home exercise equipment, but their prices vary greatly.
These $400 treadmills may lack some of the best features found on other models, but that doesn’t mean they can’t give you a great workout. After I tested all of these treadmills mentioned above, I was impressed with the quality they had.
The best treadmills under $400 are built to provide a great workout for the price. Many of them come with incline features if you properly search out!
The benefits of a treadmill under $400 include maintaining your heart health, they are lightweight and they are also moveable for those who don’t want to face difficulties while moving the treadmill.
1. Heart Health
Using a treadmill is a great way to strengthen your heart. By reducing body weight, raising energy levels, and lowering blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood sugar levels—all of which can help fend off heart disease or stroke in the future!
The American Heart Association recommends individuals exercise for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, 75 minutes a week of strenuous aerobic activity, or a combination of the two, preferably spread out equally throughout the week.
Due to the fact that they demand you to utilize more muscles than other forms of exercise like jogging or cycling. Treadmills have also been proven to reduce physical stress on the body.
This indicates that compared to other forms of exercise, using a treadmill requires burning fewer calories per minute.
2. Weight loss:
Nothing can help you lose weight as effectively as a treadmill. Depending on how hard you work out, a treadmill adjusted to the right speed and slope can burn up to 350–500 calories per hour.
This is a lot more than conventional exercise equipment is capable of. Interval training is another activity you can perform on the treadmill to burn more calories faster. There are numerous approaches to weight loss.
If you follow a healthy diet and exercise every day, you can lose weight quickly. Treadmills are the best alternative available for exercising.
The American Heart Association claims that maintaining a 2 mph pace while using a treadmill with a 3.5% incline is just as safe.
3. Lightweight and Moveable
The weight of a treadmill is also a really important factor as it might decide the assembly and transportation of your treadmill. If it is heavy you might need to face some difficulties in its setup process.
A lightweight and moveable treadmill would be a better option for those who don’t want to face some difficulties of moving the treadmill or folding it to put it under the desk.
Thus, if you want a treadmill that you can easily move and put under your desk, consider a treadmill that is less than 70 pounds. This is a better option for those who travel a lot!
4. More Budget for more Equipment:
You can also have money left over to spend on other equipment if you buy a treadmill for less than $400. Spending $400 on a treadmill rather than $2000 will leave you with more cash to spend on other pieces of equipment.
Get a stationary bike and an elliptical trainer as well, don’t forget. Weights, resistance bands, and/or a fitness ball are further options.
In the end, you will want to pick a treadmill that is worthwhile. Also, it should be strong, simple to use, and equipped with features that will help you reach your exercise objectives.
You can accomplish more and burn more calories with the aid of this equipment beginning your path to fitness.
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What to look for in a treadmill under 400$?
Before buying any treadmill, whatever the cost is you should always research before buying it. Obviously, you would use a treadmill with the best features under your budget.
So, whenever you are buying a treadmill for under $400, consider the following features:
1. Incline Feature
It’s vital to keep in mind that many inexpensive treadmills lack an incline option, and even more costly models may not have this convenience if you’re looking for a treadmill that will help you get in shape but won’t break the bank.
It is better to get a treadmill with at least one incline setting. The majority of models have several levels, however, it could be difficult to find a power-adjustable inclination that fits inside your price range.
By targeting your quads, hamstrings, glutes, and even the smallest muscles in your feet, incline workouts can help you tone your muscles more efficiently.
Incline features can stimulate walking or jogging uphill or even down the hill. This will help you in focusing on any body part you want.
2. Price
One of the key factors to think about when buying a treadmill is your budget. Even though the features of the most recent model could fascinate you, it’s important to take your frequency of use into account.
If you’re a heavy user, it’s advisable to spend more money on a treadmill that is higher quality, more sturdy and will last longer. Consider purchasing an entry-level model if you’re searching for something straightforward.
Spending more money, though, can be preferable if you’re seeking gear that will only be used seldom or if you run moderately.
3. Motor
Also, consider the power of the motor. While commercial-grade equipment can typically boast powerful motors, budget machines may not measure up in this regard.
The power of a treadmill motor (measured in horsepower) can affect the performance and longevity of your machine.
Some motors used in lower-priced treadmills have less than 2.25 horsepower, which may need to be increased for running on hills or inclines.
So, just try to have a treadmill with a horsepower of more than 2 in such a range of budget.
4. Weight Limit
The weight limit on your Treadmill is another essential factor to consider. Commercial-grade treadmills typically have a higher weight limit than budget machines (which may top at around 350 pounds).
However, for a budget under $400, the weight limit of 250-300 is acceptable, and you will mostly find them in such ranges.
This is important because it can affect the longevity and durability of your machine—especially if you’re larger or heavier than average.
5. Folding mechanism
Within the price range of under $400, most treadmills come with the convenience of foldability. This feature can be beneficial if you have little space for a treadmill; Folding makes it more compact and easier to store.
When searching for a folding treadmill, look for systems that make unfolding and refolding machines as simple as possible. Some inexpensive models can be frustrating to fold/unfold, so watch for easy-to-use versions like a soft drop.
If space is limited, a fold-flat treadmill can be an ideal option. These machines can be folded almost flat, stored under beds, or propped against walls.
6. Running Deck Size
Running decks are the surface where your feet touch when running. They come in a variety of sizes, but most treadmills.
Under $400, you can easily find a treadmill with a running deck size of 36″- 50″. This is the ideal size for most people, but finding a model that fits your height and weight can be complex.
If you’re tall or overweight, look for treadmills with larger running decks. Likewise, consider a treadmill with a smaller deck if you’re short or lightweight.
7. Speed
On a treadmill, the speed is measured in miles per hour (mph). Although most treadmills have a speed range of 0–10 mph, certain models have a 0–12 mph option.
Consider choosing one with a higher peak speed if you want to shed pounds and become in shape.
It’s generally not necessary if your primary objective is to maintain your current weight or increase muscular tone, though. Along with different speeds
8. Warranty
When investing in a treadmill, it’s essential to consider the warranty that comes with it. A good warranty will cover you if something goes wrong with your Treadmill, such as motor failure or damage during shipping.
However, considering the budget, the warranty might be one or two years, one frame, and a few months on other parts.
FAQs
What is the best reasonably priced Treadmill?
After testing many different treadmills, I found that the best reasonably priced Treadmill is the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-T4400. This machine will cost you at most $400.
What type of Treadmill is best for home use?
The best overall home-use Treadmill would be the GoPlus 2-in-1 Treadmill. This Treadmill has some of the best home-use features and will last you for years. The compact size can help you move this treadmill anywhere in your home without injuries.
Are budget treadmills good?
Small apartments are the ideal place for inexpensive treadmills. They can be transported more rapidly than more sturdy versions of these equipment since they are lighter-duty. Also, they are less expensive, which is a benefit. If you only want to use a treadmill sometimes, you don't need to invest hundreds of dollars on one.
Is a treadmill better than free walking?
A treadmill can help you lose weight and get in shape. It gives you a more complete experience in addition to a more effective workout. In a study that was published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sport & Exercise, treadmill walkers burnt about 304 calories in an hour as opposed to merely 258 calories from free walking. Now it's time to go on a treadmill if you're serious about reaching your fitness objectives.
Conclusion: Which Is The Best Treadmill under $400?
With extensive research, I have found the perfect solution in the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 treadmill: an affordable machine packed with the best features.
This Treadmill has a three-level incline and a large running belt, making it ideal for all workouts. It also has an easily accessible console, which makes it very user-friendly.
The Treadmill is constructed of high-quality materials and is known for its durability.
In addition, the sturdily built machine is manufactured by a company with a reputation for producing quality fitness equipment at reasonable prices.
With the 9-integrate workouts, you can make your exercise routine intense and effective. Overweight users can lose weight really fastly with the help of this treadmill.
The features of this treadmill compete with the price of a $1000-$1500 budget treadmill.
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 is an excellent investment for those looking to take their fitness to the next level without spending much money.
