For most people, personally shopping the “best treadmills under $500” category is guaranteed to be a time-consuming process. After all, there are so many different brands and models out there that it can get confusing quickly. But we’ve done the grunt work for you – so you can relax and choose a home treadmill with complete confidence.
Contents
What Are We Reviewing For The Best Treadmill Under $500?
Every treadmill on the list actually costs less than $500 (at the time of this writing). And every product that made the cut is a capable machine. You’ll find that our top ten home treadmills deliver both quality and value. Opting for one of these recommended models can save you countless hours, hundreds of dollars and endless frustration at making the wrong choice for you. Don’t do that. Instead, the best budget treadmill under $500 for you is here on this list. Check it out now.
You don’t need a commercial treadmill like those you’ll find at the gym. And you certainly don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to get one that will deliver great value. It doesn’t matter if this is your first ever treadmill or a replacement model. Rest assured that there are numerous excellent choices offering a variety of advantages – without spending a fortune.
Treadmills in general offer the same basic structure. Where they vary is in the size of the tread deck, power of the motor, and the various add-ons provided. The trick is to buy wisely. This means choosing from the best in the field in the low-cost category of treadmills.
NOTE: At the moment of this writing, all the Treadmills on the list were below $500, but prices might change slightly due to different circumstances.
We estimate that any variation in price in this selection of Treadmills shouldn’t be too big to make a huge jump up from the $500 threshold to begin with. But if you find any worth noticing variation, please contact us.
Best Budget Treadmills Under $500
#1. Weslo Cadence R5.2 Treadmill
Here’s an affordable treadmill that can reliably do the job and certainly meet the needs of a lot of people. The Weslo Cadence R5.2 treadmill features a powerful 2.5 hp impulse motor. There’s also a two position manual incline available to ramp-up those workouts. So it’s good for all kinds of training, including interval, speed, and endurance workouts.
This treadmill is ideal for light and intense workouts. It features a 16″ x 50″ deck that is cushioned to withstand the constant impact of your feet while providing a somewhat softer landing. Having this kind of cushioned tread means you can exercise more enjoyably, without worrying about damaging your joints, the way you could on hard pavement or cement. This comfort cell cushioning also helps you recover faster after your treadmill workouts.
The motor is relatively quiet and has an internal cooling component so that it doesn’t overheat. Chances are you can push this to the limit and not have to worry about it much. With its Space Saver design, you can fold up The Weslo R5.2 when you’re not using it to make more room. Once folded, the Weslo Cadence only takes up about 24 inches by about 28 inches of space.
Multiple programs are included with this Weslo model including six workout apps specifically for weight-loss, making it a favorite among those looking to shed some extra pounds.
It’s a sturdy treadmill built for most average size people, whether you’re power-walking, jogging – or even running. In fact, the Weslo Cadence R5.2 treadmill is built for those weighing a maximum of 255 pounds or less. Some users report running on this treadmill up to 8 mph and having it hold up very well.
But a structurally solid frame usually is usually quite heavy. In this case – the total weight of the treadmill is 118 pounds. It features a large LCD monitor for tracking calories, distance, time and speed – so you can watch your progress in real-time.
Since this is a budget treadmill, the incline is a manual adjustment. It’s easily achieved by adjusting the foldable legs at the rear of the treadmill. More expensive units have automatic incline adjustments but you can achieve a similar effect manually using this treadmill – and save yourself some hard-earned money in the process.
Just be aware that the incline adjustments are not that dramatic. If you’ve never walked on an inclined treadmill before, you will notice a difference when doing so. But if you’re used to going to extreme angles, you’ll quickly top out on this model.
Lots of people pick up the Weslo Cadence treadmill to simply get back into shape. And most of those use it for walking or lightly jogging. There are some users however who have reported using it for much more intense training – at speeds of 6 or 7 mph – on a daily basis. Others have used it to train for distance running – even marathons – and the machine has lasted for several months without issues.
With average use, this should last years.
Whatever brand or model you choose, be sure to keep your treadmill inside. Do not leave it exposed where it could be affected by heat, dust, humidity, rain, or snow. Any of those conditions can quickly ruin a fine piece of equipment.
What’s Good About It
- for the price, this offers good value
- it is compact – yet mighty – capable of delivering quality workouts
- folds up to save a good amount of floor space
- powerful motor performs day after day
- spacious tread deck means it can accommodate a higher percentage of people
What’s Not So Good
- even at the lowest incline level – it’s not perfectly straight (if you have problems with your joints, this is something you may need to be aware of)
- actual count on calories burned is not perfectly accurate – since there’s nowhere for you to enter your weight, age, height, or percentage of body fat (calories burned is a generalized number that’s reasonably accurate)
Conclusion
Overall, the Weslo Cadence makes a sound choice. It’s relatively quiet and folds up easily you can walk briskly and get in a very good workout on a daily basis. As with virtually all treadmills, some assembly is required. And because this treadmill is moderately light it can be wheeled around to different areas of the room without tremendous difficulty. Though it’s not something you’ll want to do regularly.
#2. SereneLife Smart Digital Folding Treadmill
SereneLife offers three different incline settings, 16 preset programs, plus a downloadable app called “Fit Show Sports” that can add a whole new level of excitement and motivation to your workout routines. Not surprisingly, this SereneLife folding treadmill scores and impressive 4.2 out of 5 possible stars. This comes from nearly 300 actual buyers, which is a statistically valid number of ratings.
Those preset training modes include adjustable speed and incline settings to ramp up the intensity of your workouts and really help you get into great shape. So you can start at any level with this machine and get the kind of exercise you seek.
By the way, this app works with both android and iOS – so you can use it on your phone or tablet, or even a laptop – and connect via Bluetooth. Pairing the treadmill with the app makes it easy to record your stats automatically and track your progress.
SereneLife’s Smart Digital model qualifies for our “Best Treadmills Under $500” because of all it has to offer. It features a 1.5 hp motor and adjustable speeds up to 7.5 mph. Maximum user weight is set at 265 pounds. Built-in sensors on the handgrips monitor your pulse as you workout.
The tread deck measures 15.75 inches by 43.30 inches – so it’s adequate for the majority of users. The top layer of the tread features a diamond pattern that provides an anti-slip grip and has a nice springy feel to it. All in all, there are four layers making this a durable belt that operates relatively quietly and minimizes the stress on the motor.
Also included are touch button controls and a 5 inch digital LCD display that reveals your exercise time, distance traveled, speed and calories burned.
Built-in speakers allow you to connect to your device via Bluetooth and play your favorite music as you exercise. This is huge simply because most treadmills in this price range that offer Bluetooth connectivity force you to only use it for their related fitness subscriptions.
Cushioning on both sides of the deck helps limit the vibration and noise produced as your feet constantly hit the deck. There are two built-in holders to house your phone, eyeglasses, water bottle, etc. The SereneLife Smart Digital Treadmill also comes with a USB connection, so you can charge your device as you exercise. Makes one wonder why more manufacturers haven’t added this as standard equipment.
Despite the low price, this is quality folding treadmill with a built-in soft drop system you don’t have to worry about damaging your floor, or supporting the weight of the base as it lowers into position. Ready to use, the SereneLife Smart treadmill measures 54.7 inches long by 26.7 inches wide by 49.6 inches high. Folded up, it measures 25.6 inches long by 26.7 inches wide by 52.3 inches high.
What’s Good About It
- provides an effective way to lose weight or boost your cardiovascular fitness levels.
- speed speeds range from .6 to 7.5 mph giving you enough variety for most any use
- you can adjust the timer setting anywhere from 5 to 99 minutes – for a short workout, or a much longer one.
- built-in stereo speakers and MP3 player can be used to play your choice of music via a USB flash drive or ST card reader
- fairly easy to put together
- solidly constructed treadmill that seems quite durable and able to last many months of regular use
What’s Not So Good
- stated warranty is for one year, though it doesn’t go into a lot of detail
- may be particularly suitable to smaller adults because of its compact nature
Conclusion
Even though it’s the incline is a manual adjustment, it’s pretty effortless to use the elevation of the treadmill. This is a solid treadmill at a budget price. It does not occupy a ton of space in your room and yet it’s quite durable and up to the task the way most users would want to use their treadmills. It may be the perfect solution for anyone – even seniors – to get daily exercise by walking.
#3. Weslo Cadence G5 .9i Folding Treadmill
Weslo is a well-known brand that delivers to you a complete treadmill experience – at a price you can live with. That’s important. Most people seek a treadmill that has the capacity to serve over time and grow with them as they get into better physical shape. If you’re looking for a reliable treadmill that will enable you to engage in multiple forms of exercise – without overtaxing your budget – the Weslo Cadence G5 .9i is a solid choice.
This particular treadmill is built for folks weighing up to 275 pounds. It features good-sized deck (16″ x 50″) and is powered by a capable 2.25 hp motor. It also deploys what Weslo calls “comfort cell cushioning” under the tread deck to help absorb some of the impact of your feet continuously pounding the deck. It supports your joints and gives you a much more comfortable workout experience plus faster recovery times. In fact, we urge you to only consider a treadmill with some sort of shock absorption or cushioning system built in. It feels better and is easier on the body when compared to a treadmill without this feature, or walking on paved roads or cement sidewalks.
Most people will find the 16″ x 50″ tread to be a more than adequate size. But those who are particularly tall – or have longer inseams – may want somewhat of a lengthier tread. But the vast majority of people shopping for the best treadmill under 500 will find this one is just about right for their intended use.
Like several brands and models on the market, Weslo treadmills are designed to be used with an iFit membership. With your purchase of the Weslo Cadence G5.9i, a one month complementary iFit is included and is well worth checking out. Just be aware that beyond that initial month, you will need to pay a monthly subscription if you want to retain your iFit membership. However, you don’t need the iFit membership to get your money’s worth from this treadmill. And that’s something a lot of people seem to miss.
Despite what the manufacturer may want buyers to believe – iFit is totally optional. You do not have to activate and can use the treadmill as you would any other treadmill. There’s a simple process of holding down the Bluetooth button for 15 – 30 seconds (until it beeps twice) to bypass the iFit registration which is what the manufacturer want you to do.
With Weslo you are protected with a one-year guarantee on the motor and 90 days on parts and labor.
If you haven’t done a whole lot of exercise lately, you should probably start at a slow speed and gradually increase your pace. Weslo Cadence makes this easy to do by simply hit the plus button. Gradually boost your speed and the distance you walk or jog. That way you’ll constantly improve your conditioning. just don’t overdo it. Slow and steady makes the most progress. Exercise at your own pace and get as much in as you want. Owning a treadmill like this one is an easy way to get your daily exercise.
What’s Good About It
- comes equipped with a 2.25 hp motor
- variable speeds range from 0 to 10 mph
- weight capacity of 275 pounds per user is higher than the average in this price range
- Space Saver design means you can fold it up and save space when not using
What’s Not So Good
- incline can only be adjust manually and has limited range (available inclines are 1.38°, 2.66° and 4.16°)
Conclusion
Make no mistake this is not a commercial treadmill that you would find at the gym. None of these treadmills are. But they all make wonderful at home treadmills and for the money, this Weslo model is exceptionally good value. With this one, you can enjoy a superior level of fitness at a very reasonable price. This treadmill weighs about 118 pounds, so it’s not the easiest thing to move around. But it’s not the heaviest affordable treadmill either.
#4. Xterra Fitness TR 150 Folding Treadmill
Here’s another lesser-known brand with lots to offer. It’s the Xterra Fitness TR 150 – another stellar selection from among the many we tested in the affordable treadmills category.
This Xterra features an LCD console that tracks your distance, speed, time, and pulse. Preset speed controls give you a quick and easy way to ramp up your treadmill workout midstream. With the tread size of 16 x 50 there’s plenty of room to move. And with 12 preset programs offering a variety of different workouts you can experience on this treadmill, there’s plenty of ways to mix things up. Three manual incline settings allow you to boost the intensity of your exercise and raise your heart rate.
Multiple cushioning points support the tread deck and your joints at the same time, minimizing the striking impact of each stride, allowing you to exercise more than you might otherwise be comfortable doing.
The Xterra sports a powerful 2.25 hp motor and speeds range from .5 to 10 mph. It’s a motor that operates smoothly and is relatively quiet. It’s also covered by a full year warranty. Three level s of manual adjustment (1°, 1.5° and 2°) allow you to increase the incline and therefore the intensity of your workout.
When set up and ready to use, the Xterra’s footprint measures 60 63.4″ long x 28.7″ wide. Folded for storage, the size is reduced to 28.5″ x 28.75″ wide. Weighing in at just under 110 pounds, the Xterra is suitable for anyone 250 pounds or less.
What’s Good About It
- powerful, multi-functional yet affordable treadmill
- it’s a quality product that offers solid value for the money
- the three incline adjustments can come in real handy
- has a larger display than most other units
- comes with plenty of functions and a sturdy build quality (it’s the kind of construction quality that makes one confident that the machine will last a long time)
What’s Not So Good
- parts other than the motor and labor are only covered with the 90 day warranty
- the size of treadmill and track is best suited to brisk walking and jogging (some may be able to run, but others will find the track a little short in length for a full running stride)
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quality treadmill that combines performance, flexibility and affordability, the Xterra is a stellar contender. And we’re certain it would be a welcomed addition in most homes. After owning it for several years, one user writes that the motor still sounds smooth and efficient, the tread belt moves smoothly and all the buttons continue to function as they should.
#5. GYMAX Folding Treadmill
Here is another affordable, space-saving treadmill. And as far as space saving goes – this one reigns supreme. The GYMAX Folding Treadmill occupies an area of 46″ long x 20″ wide x 43″ high when set up. Folded, that size is reduced to just 9″ long x 23″ wide x 51″ high. That makes it the most compact folding treadmill among all contenders in the “best budget treadmill under $500” category.
This kind of space saver is perfect for smaller apartments and condos – or any room with limited space.
The GYMAX Folding Treadmill boasts a contemporary design with a stylish round monitor that clearly shows your distance, current speed, time elapsed, and calories burned. Readily accessible buttons on the Gymax give you full control of your treadmill experience.
With a frame constructed of solid steel and a non-slip, shock absorbing tread belt, this one is a joy to exercise on. Speeds range from .5 to 6.5 mph, giving you multiple options. And you won’t damage your knees, ankles, or back – thanks to the cushioned deck. It’s designed to accommodate users up to but not exceeding 220 pounds.
What’s Good About It
- comes mostly preassembled – so it’s relatively easy for one person to set up (but two people are recommend for moving this or any treadmill to the correct location)
- goes together easily much more so than other treadmills we’ve wrestled with over the years
- Good range of speeds means you can walk, jog, or run
- Low noise output so you won’t disturb anybody else
- Folds fully upright occupying less space than most treadmills
- comes with transport wheels to move it around easily
What’s Not So Good
- there’s no heart monitor included (but you can easily track your heart rate with and Apple Watch or Fitbit device and you’ll have more accurate data than any budget treadmill can provide)
- like most treadmills, there’s no way of saving the data on your machine – each time you step on, it resets automatically, bringing the numbers back to zero (If you want to keep track the best surest and safest way is to do so manually to track your time distance calories etc.)
- there’s no place to set your tablet or book, so learning as you workout, or entertaining yourself by reading isn’t really an option here (But you could always choose audio books and listen via your smart device, using ear buds)
Conclusion
The Gymax treadmill is small and compact. But it’s also mighty. It’s perfect for healthy walking – or working out at a faster pace while indoors. A lot of people will find this to be the ideal solution for their home treadmill needs – and a budget friendly one at that.
#6. Sunny Health and Fitness SF – T7603 Treadmill
Sunny Health and Fitness has been making their treadmills for years and in the under $500 treadmill category, they make an excellent all-purpose treadmill many will find ideal for their homes.
The SF-T7603 model offers a whole bunch of features including:
- adjustable manual incline
- digital monitor
- soft drop system
- two bottle holders
- transportation wheels
- pulse sensor
- quick speed adjustment buttons
- 3 position manual incline adjustments
- shock absorbing tread deck
- non-slip handlebars
Ready to use, this treadmill measures 62″ long by 27″ wide by 47″ high. Once folded, that size is reduced to 32.5″ long by 27″ wide by 58″ high. So it’s a significant space saver treadmill that’s well under $500.
If you just want to get back into shape, or you’re tired of walking or jogging on hard asphalt outdoors, this low cost unit from Sunny health makes a great choice. It’s a well-cushioned treadmill made of solid steel and engineered with extra shock absorption in the tread deck. So you can get an effective cardio workout anytime at home, without feeling the pain in your knees or ankles.
This treadmill may be the perfect option for those of us who simply don’t have time – or the desire – to go to the gym. After using a treadmill like this at home, you’ll wonder, who could be bothered packing up a gym bag and taking the time to drive to the gym and back? In the time it would take most people to get ready, you could be deeply immersed in a solid workout on your Sunny Health and Fitness treadmill. Whether you simply want to lose those extra pounds, or you want to stay in shape – exercising from the comfort of home is a convenient, fun and easy way to do it.
With this treadmill, you’re getting a decent 2.2 hp DC motor and a 16″ x 49″ tread surface, plus handrail controls to start ,stop and adjust your speed, plus measure your heart rate. This Sunny Health model is a relatively small treadmill made smaller when not in use with the easy folding mechanism and soft drop system. This is very helpful. It means you don’t have to support the weight, or worry about it crashing onto your floor as you lower the tread from its storage position. In fact, this soft drop mechanism allows you to set up for a workout safely and in a hands-free way.
Walking at a steady pace works to burn off those excess pounds. You’ll want to get your heart rate up from its resting rate and the longer you can keep it there while walking – the more excess fat you’ll burn off. The Sunny Health SF-T7603 can help you do that and has earned its rightful place on our “best treadmill for home under 500” list.
With a set of transportation wheels built into the undercarriage makes it relatively easily relocate the treadmill to another spot in your house – assuming it can fit it through the doorway without any issues.
The 2.2 hp motor is more than enough. this one is made for two 2220 pounds maximum weight. it’s foldable with three manual incline adjustments.
What’s Good About It
- nine built-in programs can help you get off to a great start with your exercise routine
- top speed is 9 miles an hour – perfect for running, if that’s your thing
- at-a-glance, you can check your distance, speed, time on the treadmill, calories burned and heart rate
- power-saving mode – after the treadmill has been idle for 10 minutes it goes into its power saving mode automatically which shuts off the display (to reactivate, simply press any button)
What’s Not So Good
- three incline adjustments are manual only, so you can change the incline without stepping off
- while the unit itself is relatively quiet on a solid floor, the noise factor depends on the structure of your home (squeaky beams or a building that isn’t structurally sound can be problematic)
Conclusion
Is this the best budget treadmill under $500? Undoubtedly, it will be for some folks. This Sunny Health model is a good no-frills option a lot of people are going to love. And make no mistake – you can get a pretty good workout on this little machine. It has a small footprint and is light enough to move around (although it’s not something you’ll want to do all that often). It doesn’t have a lot of extra bells and whistles. But it’s a reliable and affordable home treadmill nonetheless.
#7. MaxCare Folding Treadmill
Here’s another budget-friendly treadmill option that’s been well thought through by product developers. Maxcare’s folding treadmill offers one touch operation and easy monitoring of speed, distance, time spend, calories burned and your current heart rate – all useful information. And the large LCD display makes this particularly easy to see as you walk, jog, or run on the treadmill.
MaxCare machines ship with a pure copper motor that operates quietly, yet is capable of powering the treadmill from .5 mph to 8.5 mph. It also features a 17 inch wide, multilayered tread belt complete with an anti-shock system in multiple locations providing a quality level of cushioning. According to the manufacturer, this model is ergonomically designed for people between the heights of 4’6″ up to about 6’2″ in height and weighing a maximum of 220 pounds. So clearly this would be a good fit for the majority of adults.
Interestingly, the weight of this treadmill is just 91 pounds. It’s not the lightest, but certainly weighs less than many budget machines on the market. At the same time it’s heavy enough and well designed to provide stable support while you’re on the track.
It couldn’t be any easier to operate. Just climb on board, turn on the treadmill and set the desired speed with a single click. That’s all it takes and you’re off to the races, figuratively speaking.
With MaxCare, you get 15 preset programs available through the LCD backlit display. At any time – whether you’re following one of these programs or not – you can monitor your speed, distance, time, calories burned and your pulse.
We’ve checked out countless treadmills over several months. One thing that stood out about MaxCare was that it was packaged well and easy to put together – with more than adequate instructions. It would probably take the average person an hour or two to get it fully assembled and ready for use. But with some experience, you could likely slash that time in half – or more.
What’s Good About It
- rubber tread belt is softer on your knees and ankles (this makes power walking, jogging, or running much more comfortable – so you’re able to go further.
- it’s designed to operate optimally with minimum vibration and noise (what you get is a stable treadmill and a quiet, yet satisfying workout experience)
- 2.5 hp motor with speeds ranging from .5 to 8.5 mph is wide ranging and capable
What’s Not So Good
- suggested user weight limit seems on the low side
- not a well-known name
Conclusion
The MaxCare folding treadmill makes it easy to exercise at home. It’s an affordable solution that provides a multitude of treadmill functions. What this ultimately means is that this one delivers solid value to the buyer.
#8. Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill, 2.25HP
Looking for a stylish yet affordable treadmill for your home or office? It doesn’t matter whether you live in a house, condominium, or apartment building either. As long as you are permitted to have exercise equipment like a treadmill in your home, you may want to strongly consider the GoPlus 2 in 1 folding treadmill. It has plenty to offer and is definitely one of the best treadmills for home under $500.
It’s not the least bit surprising that this version of the GoPlus 2 in 1 folding treadmill scores a respectable 4.0 out of 5 possible stars from actual buyers.
One of the unique features is that this treadmill actually has two different modes to it (hence the name). With the upright arms in place, it operates much like any other quality treadmill – and at speeds up to 12 km/h (7.45 mph). In walking mode, the speed of the belt is 1 to 4 km/h (2.48 mph).
The GoPlus is fully equipped with a powerful 2.25 hp motor that allows you to walk, jog and even run – without disturbing others. That’s what makes it ideal for home or office use. With a durable frame made of quality steel and a noise-reducing multilayered, shock- absorbing tread deck, rest assured this one is stable, safe and comfortable to use. And it can accommodate anyone up to 265 pounds in weight.
With a tread deck measuring approximately 16 inches wide by 40 inches long, there’s plenty of space for most (not all) people. Taller, larger-framed folks would be better served with a treadmill like this one. What the multilayered tread does provide is a softer cushion for your feet as they strike the tread – step after step.
The GoPlus 2 in 1 comes with a remote control where you control all the functions of the machine from the palm of your hand. There’s also a built-in phone holder, so you don’t have to worry about finding staying connected while exercising.
Perhaps one of the best features is the Bluetooth speaker that allows you to connect your device to the speaker and listen to whatever you want while you get your exercise in. But better leave that option for use at home, rather than the office.
Like virtually every other treadmill made the cut in the “best treadmill under $500” category, this one tracks time, distance, and calories burned while you’re on the machine. As soon as you hit the stop button it’s going to reset to zero. If you want to keep track and chart your progress on a daily basis, we suggest getting a simple notebook and manually recording the details as you go.
What’s Good About It
- folds down 28 to a rather compact 52″ long by 27″ wide by 5 inches high ( easy to slide under your desk , bed or even a sofa in some cases)
- good range of speed from one to 12 km/h
- remote control is handy (it’s a good idea to use Velcro strips to attach your remote to the top of your treadmill, so it doesn’t get lost)
- low profile makes it ideal to use with a sit/stand desk – or to park it out of the way when not in use
What’s Not So Good
- speed control operates only in metric (it’s a shame that there’s not a simple way to switch it to imperial measure, as that would be more convenient for a lot of people)
- some buyers have mentioned a slight drag in the tread belt at slower speeds (this is often a problem with most treadmills at speeds under 2 mph – but any drag here is ever so slight and the more you use the treadmill the more the tread seems to adapt)
Conclusion
The GoPlus 2 in 1 is a stylish, compact and affordable treadmill. Is a perfect match for anyone who is looking for a compact treadmill for home or office. And it’s also great to be used as a standing and walking desk, and can be moved away when not in use.
#9. SereneLife Smart Electric Treadmill
When used with the compatible app, SereneLife’s smart electric treadmill offers additional advantages beyond those you might expect with a treadmill. There’s an LCD display with push button controls and the display indicates distance, accumulated time, current speed, calories burned, plus the heart rate – which is determine through the handgrip sensors on the handlebars.
You can manually adjust the incline level to boost your workouts. There’s also a built-in tray for a book or iPad (very useful), as well as a cup or bottle holder. All in all, the SereneLife Smart Electric is an excellent treadmill for walking or jogging in your home gym or spare room.
What makes this an appealing choice for many is SereneLife’s compatible “Fit Show Sports” app. Pair this to your device Via Bluetooth and it allows you to automatically record and review your exercise data, display your training stats, as well as challenge your friends to a workout in a way that’s similar to what FitBit offers. Since the app works with both android and iOS systems – anyone with a smart device can use it. This adds to the treadmill’s usability and functionality.
With a tread deck size of 15.75″ wide by 39.37″ long the motor is a 1 hp motor – it may appear to be a little on the lighter side. But speeds range from 0.6 to 6 mph and the motor has proven capable and able to hold its own for extended workout periods. Also, this model can support users up to 265 pounds. According to buyers, it’s a proven and versatile piece of exercise equipment – one that your whole family is likely to enjoy.
Ready for use, it measures 50.8″ long by 24″ wide by 49.2″ high. Folding reduces the size to 25.2″ long by 24″ wide by 49.2″ high.
What’s Good About It
- comes with 12 preset training modules including weight-loss, cardio fitness and building stamina
- good for smaller rooms (at the end of your workout, you can simply fold the machine up using the hydraulic folding capability)
- built-in timer (workouts can vary from five to 99 minutes in length)
- total weight of the machine is 60 pounds – notably lighter than many competing models in the under $500 treadmill category
- downloadable app is handy
- easy to use and store thanks to its light weight (even one person can easily handle it)
What’s Not So Good
- while this lighter weight makes it a little easier to move, the downside is it seems to be less solid structurally than the heavier built models
- deck length may be too short for some
- top speed is not high enough for serious runners
Conclusion
This one is easy to put together and very quiet to operate. It’s a great option for beginners and semi-serious athletes too. It makes an excellent choice for a small apartment or condo, since it takes up very little space, is quiet to operate and easy to move from room to room.
#10. Merax Electric Folding Treadmill
With Merax, you have another solid low-cost option to choose from. It offers plenty of features including an LCD display that tracks your stats. But there’s also a USB connection – so you can connect your device or flash drive and enjoy listening to your favorite playlist while you work out. That’s a huge plus in our book. Not surprisingly, it scores an impressive 4.1 out of 5 possible stars from nearly 350 buyer reviews.
Merax is built with a 1.5 hp motor that performs smoothly and efficiently. Speed capability ranges from .5 to 7.5 mph. and handlebar controls allow you to change speed settings during your workout. What’s significantly different here is the automatic incline adjustment, so you can ramp up or ease down your workouts at any time.
What’s about the Merax treadmill is that it comes with a high density material on the outer layer of the tread. This helps to absorb the impact as your feet strike against the tread over and over again. Shock absorption like this not only makes it more comfortable – it helps save your joints particularly your knees and speeds recovery times between workouts.
This is another relative lightweight in terms of overall weight of the machine weighs in at 64 pounds. But the frame on the Merax is surprisingly strong and reliable. It’s engineered to withstand distance jogging and running – for those up to 240 pounds in weight.
The treadmill is definitely smaller than many we’ve seen. But it does the job and it works well. When set up, the Merax treadmill measures 55″ long by 23.5″ wide by 43″ tall. In its storage position, the size is reduced to 29.5″ long by 23.5″ wide by 49″ high.
What’s Good About It
- It’s small, quiet, easy to set up and does the job
- tread deck is cushioned and has an anti-slip surface (accidents are less likely to happen)
- with a built-in auxiliary audio port, speakers, plus a USB port for charging your device, you have a variety of entertainment options right at your fingertips
- ships mostly preassembled with a little assembly required by the buyer
What’s Not So Good
- small ledge doesn’t provide safe storage for your device (it could fall off without a strip of Velcro holding it in place)
Conclusion
It’s a well-made treadmill with plenty of options for the money. When not being used you can probably fit this in a closet to store it out-of-the-way. If you’re looking for nothing fancy, the Merax is a quality starter manual treadmill at a terrific price. If you simply want to walk more or get in a decent workout – this could be the treadmill for you.
Owning this machine is an excellent way to get in your workout at home and save the 20 or $30 every month you might spend – plus the drive to the gym and back. If you want to just get into better shape and improve your distance conditioning – or shed a few pounds and inches – this treadmill can definitely help.
Bonus: Best Treadmill For Office Under $500
GoPlus Walking Treadmill
Here’s a bonus product for you. It’s not a typical treadmill, but it’s one that’s going to make some buyers extremely happy. Maybe the simplest of all treadmill designs that’s because all you’re really getting is the walking tread. It’s perfect for those who have a sit/stand desk and who want to walk as they work and burn off some extra calories.
This can be an excellent way to burn fat, regulate your muscles and improve cardiovascular health. For maintaining good overall health, a walking treadmill makes an excellent option.
GoPlus equips this machine with a visual display, so you can track your distance, time and calories burned. Or, you can simply focus on your work and walk at a slower pace. Either way you’ll be doing your body a world of good.
This one is the most compact and lightest of all treadmills we recommend in the under $500 category. It measures 51.5″ long by 23.5″ wide by just 6″ high and tips the scale at a relative light 55.5 pounds.
The motor built into this unit is just one horsepower. But that’s more than enough for its intended purpose. The speed is limited from .5 to 4 mph. It’s only suitable for walking. But you can walk at a steady clip so you get in some solid cardiovascular exercise.
For those of you with a standup desk – this is perfect.
Of course, you don’t have to use this with the desk. You can use it anywhere. But keep in mind if you’re using it at home for exercise, you’ll want to keep a table nearby so you have a place for your water bottle.
It doesn’t get any easier than this. First of all, there’s nothing to install. Set up is super easy. Once your unit is where you want it, simply remove the base from the box, plug it into an outlet, add batteries to the remote and flip the switch on. That’s it. In a matter of minutes you are walking on your new treadmill.
GoPlus provides a warranty that covers all repairs and parts for the period of one year.
What’s Good About It
- very lightweight compared to most other options
- noise level is much lower
- an inexpensive yet very usable piece of equipment
What’s Not So Good
- each speed adjustment triggers a beep which can be annoying to coworkers (if you’re using this in an office setting, it’s best to figure out your speed in advance and take the quickest, most direct route there
Conclusion
Using the GoPlus walking treadmill is a terrific way to turn an otherwise sedentary work environment into one that is much more health inducing.
Bonus: Best Walking Pad Under $500
WALKINGPAD A1 Foldable Treadmill
The Walking Pad A1 foldable treadmill features a unique fold up design. It’s basically a base unit or walking pad designed to be used under a standing desk. But the tread itself folds in the middle – essentially folding in half.
Rollers on the bottom make it easy to move around as needed. The included remote control makes it easy to turn on or off, or to adjust the speed as necessary. There’s a pressure sensor on the tread that enables you to control high, medium or slow speeds by your feet. The uniform speed zone is in the middle of the tread belt, with the acceleration zone at the front and the slow-down zone at the back.
In use, it’s relatively quiet and the tread belt is wear resistant and anti-slip (two pluses). Maximum user weight is stated as 220 pounds.
What’s Good About It
- can use it in your home or office to walk or lightly jog as you work
- it’s quiet (chances are your colleagues won’t be disturbed or interrupted at all)
- it is lightweight (this walking pad weighs in at 61.7 pounds)
- compact size – set for use it measures 56.3″ by 21.54″ wide by 5.08″ high (folded it measures 35.43″ long by 24.8″ wide by 7.67″ high
- Setup is quick and easy just take it out of the box plug it in at a few screws and you’re ready to go
What’s Not So Good
- due to the nature of the design there’s no incline feature on the walking pad
- no uprights or handles to help you maintain your balance
Conclusion
As a simple and portable walking treadmill – the WALKINGPAD A1 Foldable Treadmill is an excellent option. Keep in mind that there’s a little bit of flex to the body of the treadmill. So we would be hesitant to push the weight limit much beyond that which is stated.
Don’t expect to jog or run on this treadmill. It’s designed to be used for walking but you can certainly walk at a brisk pace and get that heart rate accelerating. Stay at a steady pace for an extended length of time and you’ll develop much better endurance.
The Verdict
When you’re looking for the best budget treadmill under $500 – your choices are many. We’ve narrowed the field down to the top ten – and we added a couple of bonus products we happen to love. By choosing one of our recommendations, you’ll save yourself plenty of time and uncertainty. Choose with confidence the treadmill from our list that best meets your needs. If you’re looking for the overall best treadmill under 500, we recommend the Merax Electric, very well rated by owners at a great price. If you want the best bang for your buck – here’s what we recommend: Weslo Cadence G 5.9i, a well know brand with excellent value for your investment. And if you’re mostly looking for a reliable walking treadmill – you can’t go wrong with the Weslo Cadence R5.2, a recognizable brand and a solid machine.
Also you are looking for a compact treadmills, you can take a look at our selection of the best compact treadmills.