Best Running Machines in 2023

Running is a really great exercise to stay active, healthy and improve cardiovascular endurance. Running is also convenient, because you don’t technically need any equipment if you run outside. However, due to many things, such as weather, time of day, or your location that may not always be possible. If that’s the case, a running machine (or what’s also called a treadmill) is your next best option.

If you want to be able to run anytime you want, you’ll need a treadmill in your home. There are so many brands and options with treadmills though, so it can be difficult to choose one. We’ve done the research for you and have put together a list of the top ten treadmills for running and their features.

Once you’ve reviewed the details in this article, you’ll be better equipped to make that treadmill purchase. You’ll just have to weigh what features and options are most important to you that also fits within your budget.

Top 3 Best and Favorites

Best Overall

1. Precor TRM 445 Precision Series Treadmill

The TRM 445 Precision series are actually commercial quality treadmills that you can purchase for home use. While they are created to mimic the quality you find in your neighborhood fitness center, they are designed for a more personalized feel. These are going to be for the avid runner that logs a lot of miles on a daily basis.

One of the notable features on the 445 is their Ground Effects shock absorption system.  This system was engineered to cushion your run as much as possible by placing specific shock absorbers in the front of the treadmill where impact is highest. In the rear of the treadmill, however, they minimize this to allow a stiffer push off.

Precor also adds a special technology in the belt speed which adjusts more naturally to your own pace and foot strike. This helps minimize possible injury or strain on the legs, knees, and ankles.

Best Treadmill for Home Use

2. True Performance 100 Treadmill

The True Performance 100 treadmill is built with commercial quality, but it is more affordably priced for home use. It’s built with a True Performance’s Soft System, which is designed for better shock absorption and less impact to the joints for a more comfortable run.

The 100 treadmill also comes with modern fitness app controls implemented with the use of Wahoo Fitness RunFit App tracking.  This will help you monitor, track and have more control and programming options. The variety will help you maintain your running schedule without getting bored of the same routines.  

If you have a few people in the house who will be using this treadmill, you’ll be happy to know that you can individually create 4 user accounts. Each user can also store up to 5 of their own workouts. This means that everyone in the family is able to monitor and track their own workouts.

Best Budget Treadmill

3. XTERRA Fitness 150

The XTERRA Fitness 150 is incredibly affordable, perfect for a beginner treadmill if you don’t have a lot to spend at first. Don’t let the price fool you though, you won’t skimp on quality. The XTERRA Fitness 150 has a 2.25 horsepower motor which still provides great power for even the high miles runner.

One of the great features about this treadmill is its ability to fold up to conserve space. Perfect for those without a lot of room. The handrails on the sides include heart rate monitors so you can do a quick check on your cardio levels.

This treadmill still provides all the features you will need for regular running with 12 preset programs, 3 manual incline programs, and a XTRA Soft Cushioned Deck Technology to minimize joint impact.  The 16” x 50” running surface is enough room for most runners, but could feel a little small during really active workouts.

Best Folding Running Machine

4. 3G Cardio 80i Fold Flat Treadmill

If space is your primary concern, you may really like the 3G Cardio 80i Fold Flat Treadmill. The entire thing folds down to the ground to be as flat as possible to a height of under 10 inches. Even the screen console flattens so that it doesn’t get in the way. It can, however, also be folded upright.

The Cardio 80i also has a large running surface of 60” for those who like even more running room. It comes with the usual desired features of a 15% incline and speed range up to 11mph. This machine is durable and can support runners up to 325 with its 3.0 horsepower motor.

For music enthusiasts it comes with built-in speakers and plug-in options for audio iPhone or 3MP connections. This treadmill also has just enough programming options, with 8 built-in and customizable programs, including some fitness tests.

Top Compact Treadmill

5. ProForm 6.0 RT Treadmill

If you are looking for a treadmill that’s easy to move around and a space saver, the ProForm 6.0 RT is just what you are looking for. The running surface on this machine can fold and be stored upright. Priced very reasonably, the 6.0 RT is great for your basic walking and running.

The 6.0 RT was built with TreadSoft Cushioning for extra stabilization and to aid in joint relief.  There is a small LCD screen that will still provide basic workout information. This is great for those who also don’t need a bunch of bells and whistles and just wants a basic machine.

Essentially this machine is affordable, and provides all the minimum requirements you’d need for running at home. Think of it as a minimalist treadmill, so it will be perfect for anyone who wants a simple and easy to use machine.

Best Basic Running Machine

6. NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill

If you tend to get bored easily while running, you may really enjoy the NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill. It’s large 10” touch display screen will impress, as it’s also programmed with over 16,000 on demand workouts. Additionally, you can have new daily workouts and take use of their interactive training options.

The 6.5 S is also well built, with FlexSelect Cushioning, which allows a runner to use dampeners that add extra shock absorption.  This technology can also make your run feel more like running on the road.

Another nice feature on the 6.5 S is the extra wide running platform that is 20” wide, making it feel roomier, especially for the very active runner.  That platform can also be lifted upright and stored to save space, which is great for small living areas.

Best Home Gym Treadmill

7. LifeSpan TR5000i Non-Folding Treadmill

The LifeSpan TR5000i treadmill is a powerful treadmill, with a 3.0 hp motor and ability to hold up to 350 pounds. This treadmill comes with up to 15 angles of incline, which will give you more variety in difficulty with each run.

This commercial quality treadmill also provides plenty of running space on it’s 20” x 60” platform. It also has an extra thick running track and eight shock absorbers to make your running more comfortable.

TR5000i will also keep your entertainment handy with its dual speakers and port for your smartphone device. You can also save your workout data and use the USB port to transfer it a flash drive for later use.

Most Cushioned Treadmill

8. Sole F85 Treadmill

For the most aggressive runners, the Sole F85 treadmill should definitely be one to consider. It’s built to withstand the toughest workouts with it’s 4.0 hp motor and running speeds up to 12 mph. Plus the Cushion Flex Wisper Desk technology was constructed for better shock absorption and to lessen impact to joints by 40%.

Storage is easy with it’s fold up ability, but the design of this treadmill is very modern looking and offers a lot of features. Listen to your music through Bluetooth speakers, or use the USB port to connect to or charge your device. Plus, this model comes with a built-in tablet holder, in case you weren’t interested in viewing their 10.1 inch screen.

Very solid construction, built to support runners up to 400 pounds. This top rated treadmill will not disappoint and if it fits in your budget you should check it out.

Top Treadmill for Walking and Running

9. Sunny Health & Fitness T7643

If you plan on using your treadmill mostly for walking, and possibly light running, the Sunny Health and Fitness T7643 could be a great option for you. It’s designed with the walker in mind, with a roomy 20 inch platform surface.

Although it’s more of a walking treadmill, it’s still a very durable machine capable of supporting runners up to 350 pounds. The T7643 is also a smaller machine, its platform length is only 43 inches long.  With it’s folding ability it helps save space and can be moved easily on its wheels.

This treadmill doesn’t have a lot of extra bells and whistles but you can still keep track of your workout with the digital monitor screen. The screen will display the basics such as calories burned, time, distance and speed.

Best Treadmill for Apartments

10. LifeSpan TR1200i Folding Treadmill

The LifeSpan TR1200i folding treadmill is an award winning treadmill built with 20 different programming options. A great feature of this treadmill is that it is also great for smaller living spaces or apartments. When folded up in the vertical position, it only takes up 39 inches by 33 inches of floor space.

Supporting runners up to 300 pounds, the 2.5 horsepower motor is ample power for the regular runner. The hand rails are unique, however, with buttons on them that can control your workout intensity or start the heart rate monitor. This just allows for easier transition through your workout levels.

With the TR1200i you can save your workout data through the USB port and pull it up later to review. With that port you can also connect your smartphone device, or use the headphone jack for your music.