As a leading manufacturer of premium fitness equipment, we understand that the right treadmill can transform your fitness journey. With years of industry expertise, we’ve seen firsthand that choosing a treadmill isn’t just about the price tag—it’s about durability, performance, and making a long-lasting investment.

We understand the frustration of dealing with low-quality treadmills that show signs of wear after just a few months. That’s why we prioritize building machines with high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology, ensuring exceptional performance and comfort.

In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best treadmills in the world, offering a closer look at their standout features and what makes each one a top contender. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner, understanding these models will help you make an informed decision about the treadmill that best suits your fitness goals.

best treadmill brands

Quick Tips: What We’ve Learned from Designing and Testing Treadmills

  • Test the maximum speed and incline settings to ensure they align with your training needs.
  • Pay attention to sounds during operation—any unusual noises could signal an issue with build quality.
  • Look for a wider running surface (20″ or more) for better stability and comfort.
  • Account for ceiling height—add at least 15″ to your height for ample clearance.
  • Opt for a powerful motor (at least 3.0 CHP) to support regular running and intense workouts.
  • Carefully review warranty details—longer coverage usually reflects higher product quality and reliability.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Treadmill

Before diving into specific models, let’s discuss what really matters when choosing a treadmill:

Motor Power

The heart of any treadmill is its motor. For walking, a 2.5 CHP (Continuous Horse Power) motor will suffice, but regular runners should look for at least 3.0 CHP. Heavy users or households with multiple runners might want to consider 4.0 CHP or higher.

Running Surface

Your running deck should be at least 55″ long for walking, 58″ for jogging, and 60″ or longer for running. Width matters too – look for at least 20″ for comfortable arm swing and natural stride.

Build Quality

A sturdy frame eliminates wobbling at higher speeds. Look for all-steel construction and a weight capacity at least 50 pounds above your actual weight.

Technology Features

While fancy touchscreens are nice, prioritize core functionality over bells and whistles. That said, features like Bluetooth connectivity and pre-programmed workouts can keep you motivated.

Price Range

Quality treadmills typically range from $1,000 to $3,500. While budget options exist, investing in a higher-quality machine often saves money in the long run through better durability and fewer repairs.

10 Best Treadmill Brands

ICON

ICON is undoubtedly the leading brand of home treadmills, commanding more than 80% of the European market and holding a global market share of up to 25%. It has been rated as the most recommended treadmill brand by Consumer Reports in the United States. In the list of the top 10 most worthwhile treadmills on Business Insider, ICON accounts for half of the entries. The treadmill used on Air Force One, the U.S. presidential aircraft, is a NordicTrack treadmill, a brand under ICON.

As the industry leader, ICON’s technological strength is unquestionable. The company holds 326 treadmill patents, and its treadmills are equipped with Class N-level motors—top-tier in the industry, offering higher heat resistance. ICON’s proprietary shock absorption systems, including ProShox, Reflex, RunnersFlex, and FlexSelect, are also unique in the industry.

Through acquisitions, ICON now owns several treadmill sub-brands, each targeting different customer groups. Among them, NordicTrack represents ICON’s high-end treadmills, with prices typically at the higher end of the market. ProForm is positioned as a mid-to-high-end line and is ICON’s best-selling and most powerful treadmill product range, typically starting at a mid-range price point. Weslo primarily produces entry-level treadmills, which are more budget-friendly.

ICON has categorized its home treadmills into four series based on performance and purpose: the Mountain Treadmill Series, Light Commercial Series, C Series, and T Series. The Mountain Treadmill Series features slope adjustments, while the Light Commercial Series offers more powerful motors. The C Series and T Series focus on minimalist designs and smaller sizes.

In addition to the standard home treadmills, ICON’s Mountain Treadmill Series and Light Commercial Series are also highly popular with consumers. The highlight of the Mountain Treadmill Series is the slope adjustment function, with a range of -6° to 40°—nearly three times greater than the typical treadmill range of 0-15°. This steeper slope allows for higher workout intensity at slower speeds, especially suitable for individuals over 100kg or those who cannot run fast. Many other brands have followed suit by introducing products with negative slope adjustment, inspired by ICON.

The advantages of the Light Commercial Series treadmills include their maximum load capacity and sustained motor output. The maximum load capacity can reach 135kg, and the sustained output power exceeds 3.0HP (1HP ≈ 746W). However, the drawbacks include the high price range and significant weight.

In recent years, the home smart fitness sector has seen rapid growth, and ICON has launched its own artificial intelligence-based IFIT fitness system. Models like the T9.0 and T10 are among the most typical. Along with strong motor power, excellent shock absorption, and wide running platforms, the IFIT system also provides a range of training courses and real-life video recordings of training environments. When users experience scenic training scenes, such as valleys and grasslands, on the LCD screen, the treadmill automatically adjusts the speed and incline to simulate the terrain’s geographical features, allowing runners to enjoy diverse workout modes. Combining top-notch basic configurations with user-friendly scenario simulations, it’s perfect for advanced runners seeking a challenge.

Life Fitness

Life Fitness, a subsidiary of the Fortune 500 company Brunswick Corporation, is the world’s leading manufacturer of commercial fitness equipment by market share and revenue. Renowned for its innovation in fitness equipment digitalization, Life Fitness has set numerous international industry standards and is the undisputed leader in the commercial fitness equipment sector, with production facilities in 12 countries and products available in 120 markets worldwide.

While Life Fitness excels in the commercial market, its presence in the home fitness equipment market is relatively limited compared to competitors like ICON. Its home treadmill lineup is small, and although labeled as home-use, the equipment leans heavily toward commercial-grade quality. The high price range places these treadmills beyond the reach of most households, with some custom luxury models commanding exceptionally premium prices.

That said, disregarding price and sales factors, Life Fitness treadmills deliver outstanding performance. They inherit the “high power, large size” characteristics of the brand’s commercial treadmills, boasting impressive motor power and larger running belt dimensions. The motor power starts at a robust level, and the running belts are typically longer and wider than those on standard home treadmills, nearly matching the specifications of light commercial models.

Life Fitness home treadmills are particularly praised for their comfort and smart features, thanks to the standard FlexDeck shock absorption system and a variety of workout programs. Data shows that the FlexDeck system can reduce the impact on knees and joints by 30% during runs while also minimizing noise for a better user experience.

From a design perspective, Life Fitness home treadmills are divided into folding and non-folding models. Non-folding models, such as the T3 and T5, are designed for higher weight capacities and positioned at the market’s premium end. Folding models like the F3 focus more on portability and storage, offering slightly less robust performance but appealing to users with limited space or lower requirements.

Additionally, customization options are a unique feature of Life Fitness home treadmills. Users can select different screens based on their preferences even within the same model. The entry-level GO screen prioritizes practicality with a simple interface and layout, while the advanced Track screen offers more features, including workout tracking and entertainment options. The price difference between these screen options reflects the customization flexibility, allowing users to choose based on their needs and budget.

Technogym

Hailing from Italy, Technogym has long established itself as a “luxury fitness” brand on the international stage. For the past 20 years, it has been the exclusive fitness equipment supplier to Inter Milan, one of Serie A’s elite teams, and has served as the fitness equipment provider for seven consecutive Olympic Games. Its presence in the Chinese market has also been growing rapidly.

Technogym’s fitness equipment is exclusively made in Italy and is known for its superior design. The brand’s treadmills feature minimalist lines and seamless aesthetics, with a distinctive black-and-yellow color scheme. High-touch areas use soft, premium materials, providing a refined experience. Technogym’s fitness equipment frequently appears at Milan Design Week and has won nearly all major international design awards, including the Red Dot Award, iF Design Award, and ADI Design Award.

In addition to its iconic designs, Technogym is also recognized for its intelligent technology. Its proprietary Mywellness digital cloud platform rivals other top brands, allowing users to connect to their personal fitness accounts through apps integrated into the equipment. This enables real-time tracking of workout data and the creation of scientifically backed personal fitness plans.

The combination of unique design, intelligent features, and a focus on high-end, semi-commercial positioning has resulted in Technogym treadmills being priced at a premium. Even entry-level series like My Run and Forma are positioned in the higher price range, while the professional-grade Personal and Skill series cater exclusively to high-end users with dedicated fitness spaces, occupying the ultra-luxury segment.

The My Run series, though entry-level, boasts specifications comparable to mid-to-high-end models from other brands. Its minimalist design has won prestigious awards such as the Red Dot Award, iF Design Award, and ADI Design Award. With a maximum load capacity of 140kg, continuous motor power of 2.5HP, a 0-12° incline adjustment, and a shock-absorbing adaptive running belt, it offers an excellent balance of functionality and aesthetics. Additionally, the built-in running system interacts with workout rhythms through smart music features.

The higher-end Personal series takes things up a notch with upgraded features. Its running belt extends to 151cm by 52cm, continuous motor power increases to 4.0HP, and it supports a maximum load capacity exceeding 160kg. These enhancements are paired with a significantly higher price tag, appealing primarily to luxury buyers.

The Skill series, designed for professional athletes, is mainly found in gyms and showcases top-tier specifications. The flagship SkillRun features a maximum load capacity of 220kg, peak motor power of up to 10HP, and a 19-inch touch console. These treadmills are positioned firmly in the professional segment, with limited availability for individual buyers. Official sales channels now focus on in-store purchases for this series, emphasizing its specialization for professional use.

Sole

Sole is the largest internet-based home fitness equipment brand in the United States, often referred to as the “BMW of treadmills.” Sole has established nearly a hundred physical stores nationwide and leveraged booming e-commerce sales to successfully capture a share of the mid-to-high-end treadmill market.

Compared to competitors like ICON, Sole’s product line is more streamlined, focusing on the design and production of aerobic fitness equipment, primarily treadmills, elliptical machines, and exercise bikes (including spin bikes). The brand has clearly defined series for each category, and many parts are interchangeable, which helps to effectively control costs.

Sole is renowned for its excellent after-sales service and high cost-effectiveness, earning the favor of the hospitality industry. International five-star hotels like Hilton, Omni, and Monaco all use Sole-manufactured treadmills. The brand has won multiple “BEST BUY” awards from the U.S. Consumer Guide, with the Sole F63 model being named the “best value home treadmill” by a leading U.S. consumer magazine.
The motor is the heart of any treadmill, and Sole is known for the reliability of its motors. Sole treadmills feature dynamically balanced motors for enhanced stability and reduced noise. The motors, rated with an F-grade insulation system, can withstand temperatures up to 155°C. Equipped with cooling fans, they maintain a working temperature of around 40°C, significantly extending their lifespan.

Sole offers both commercial and home-use treadmills, though its focus is more on the commercial segment. Home treadmill models are fewer and are named with a combination of the letter “F” and numbers. Higher numbers indicate more advanced features, dividing Sole’s home treadmills into three general tiers: entry-level, mid-range, and high-end.

The mid-range F63 is a classic in Sole’s home treadmill lineup. It ranked second in the “Best Value Foldable Home Treadmills” category by a U.S. consumer report, earning top ratings in both “ergonomics” and “versatility.” It’s ideal for households with limited space but higher functional expectations for a treadmill. The newer F63L model builds on this legacy, offering features such as a 3HP continuous motor, a top speed of 18km/h, a 51cm-wide running belt, 0-15 levels of electronic incline, and foldable storage capabilities, making it a versatile mid-range choice. An upgraded version of the F63 features a high-density phenolic resin running deck, additional incline levels up to 18, and integration with select Garmin watches for enhanced connectivity.

For users with more space or advanced training needs, higher-end models like the F85NEW are excellent options. This model boasts an ultra-wide 56cm running belt, 4-6HP motor output, and a top speed of 18km/h, meeting the training requirements of marathon runners. Its sturdy steel frame, paired with a sleek matte black finish and side trims, exudes a sense of luxury and professionalism, making it both aesthetically pleasing and performance-driven.

BH

BH is Europe’s largest comprehensive fitness equipment group, holding the second-largest market share in the global home treadmill industry. In a field dominated by American companies, BH has successfully carved out its place. BH was the NBA’s first fitness equipment partner and served as the official fitness equipment supplier for the China Open Tennis Tournament from 2009 to 2012.

Originally established with a background in military manufacturing, BH began developing indoor fitness equipment in the 1970s. Today, its product line covers all categories of fitness equipment, with every product meeting EU CE certification standards and the strict EN957 European fitness equipment regulations.

BH’s home treadmills target the mid-to-high-end market, with starting prices in the upper range. However, compared to Chinese domestic brands like Johnson, BH treadmills are relatively simplistic in features and may lack competitiveness in a functionality-driven market like China. As a result, some popular models are not listed on domestic e-commerce flagship stores. Despite this, BH’s home treadmills remain well-known for their top-notch quality.

BH offers both commercial and home-use fitness equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, and exercise bikes. Most products sold in China are domestically manufactured, while commercial models in the Asia-Pacific region are primarily produced in Taiwan. According to BH, every product undergoes a three-stage quality inspection before delivery: initial and secondary checks during production, followed by a final comprehensive inspection before shipping to ensure consistent quality.

Based on user needs, BH’s home treadmills are divided into entry-level and semi-professional models. Semi-professional models are designed for users with established fitness routines and offer enhanced motor performance, better shock absorption, and more comprehensive built-in workout programs to support high-intensity, frequent training. These models are priced at a mid-to-premium level.

The BT7050 is a representative semi-professional home treadmill, featuring a 50cm-wide running belt, a top speed of 18km/h, and 12 preset workout programs. It is well-suited for fitness enthusiasts with diverse training needs. Although heavier than many home treadmills, its stable frame and superior shock absorption make it safer for high-intensity training sessions.

Entry-level home treadmills, on the other hand, prioritize portability and compactness. They typically feature foldable designs and trade off motor power and stability for lower costs, making them more suitable for occasional use. These models usually have a continuous output power below 2.0HP and a maximum weight capacity of around 120kg.

For instance, the BT6443 treadmill has a top speed of 14km/h and a 1.25HP motor, making it ideal for users weighing under 100kg. Despite its entry-level positioning, the BT6443 excels in safety, with a triple cushioning system that minimizes knee strain during running. Its high-traction running belt ensures excellent grip, even when wet with sweat, making it a good choice for users with moderate fitness requirements.

Johnson

Johnson Health Tech stands out among numerous Chinese fitness equipment manufacturers as the only brand capable of competing with international giants. Despite its shorter history compared to European and American brands, Johnson has grown into the world’s second-largest commercial fitness equipment manufacturer after Life Fitness, with over 340 brick-and-mortar stores worldwide.

In 2018, Johnson held a 30.9% market share in Europe, ranking third overall and securing the top spot in China, Germany, Thailand, the Netherlands, and Belgium. That same year, Johnson replaced Life Fitness as the exclusive equipment supplier for Planet Fitness, the world’s largest fitness club chain with 12 million members, underscoring the company’s strength and reputation.

Johnson primarily focuses on commercial-grade equipment for gyms and fitness clubs, while home fitness equipment represents a smaller portion of its product line. Its offerings are divided into five sub-brands based on target markets:

  • Matrix – Premium Commercial
  • Johnson – Professional Commercial
  • Vision – Light Commercial
  • Horizon – High-End Home
  • Tempo – Home

The Horizon and Tempo lines cater specifically to the home treadmill market.

Horizon Series: Professional Home Use

The Horizon series targets professional-grade home users, featuring superior motor performance, higher weight capacities, and adjustable inclines compared to entry-level models. Prices generally range from mid to high-end, offering limited but high-performing options. For example, the Paragon X is equipped with a powerful 3.25HP motor and a maximum weight capacity of 159kg, making it comparable to commercial-grade treadmills. However, its higher price point may deter some buyers.

Tempo Series: Entry-Level Home Use

The Tempo series serves the entry-level market, with prices generally in the mid-range. Despite its affordability, the series offers competitive performance, including features such as a 0–10° electric incline adjustment, motors rated at 1.5HP or higher, and speeds of up to 15km/h. Many models also feature automatic folding mechanisms. This combination of performance and price makes Tempo one of the best choices for average households.

The TR5.0, for example, is a well-rounded entry-level treadmill. Its maximum speed of 16km/h can accommodate most users’ workout needs, and its competition-grade triple shock absorption system minimizes knee strain. The main drawback is its relatively small running area, which is less suitable for users over 75kg, though it remains an excellent option for most runners. Priced within an accessible range, it’s highly attractive for families.

Competitive Edge and Market Adaptation

Compared to competitors like NordicTrack and Precor, Johnson’s home treadmills may lag slightly in terms of raw performance, with motor outputs generally between 1.5HP and 2.5HP. However, for home use, this range is sufficient for most users. What sets Johnson apart is its exceptional value for money: models with comparable features often cost significantly less than those from higher-end brands like Precor or Sole.

Additionally, Johnson offers robust support, including a one-year full warranty and a five-year motor warranty. In major cities, they also provide installation services, making their products particularly appealing in the Chinese market.

Precor

Precor, once part of Finland’s Amer Sports alongside brands like Arc’teryx, Salomon, and Wilson, was the largest supplier for 386 24-Hour Fitness gyms across the United States and also served 30 large Metro and 30 Urban YMCA locations. From 2019 to 2021, Precor was sold twice, first to Anta (China) and later to the US home fitness brand Peloton, though its sales on domestic e-commerce platforms have remained unaffected.

Precor introduced the shock absorption concept to treadmills in 1990 and has been a pioneer in smart treadmills. It now produces a full range of aerobic and strength training equipment, including TRM treadmills and EFX ellipticals, and is widely recognized as a leader in the global premium fitness product market.

Precor’s treadmills are primarily designed for commercial use, but its few home models still inherit the commercial treadmill’s high power and heavy-duty features, starting at a higher price level. All models are equipped with Precor’s proprietary Stride Integration Technology (IFT) and Ground Effects Control System (GFX), ensuring top-notch quality. However, due to its premium positioning, the price point makes it less accessible for many.

One standout feature is the GFX system, which Precor developed to provide progressive cushioning when the foot strikes the treadmill. This system reduces up to 44% of the impact force compared to running outdoors, helping prevent knee joint injuries.

The TRM243, ranked second with 84 points in Consumer Reports’ overall home treadmill ranking, is one of Precor’s top models, with excellent performance across all indicators. It features a 3.0HP motor, a 160kg weight capacity, a 145x51cm running belt, speeds up to 20 km/h, and a 0-15° incline adjustment. It meets most people’s fitness needs, but at a price near the high end, it’s beyond the reach of many.

The higher-end light commercial models, like the TRM631, are even more luxurious, priced in the higher range. In addition to the IFT and GFX systems, the TRM631 offers a wider and thicker running surface, which helps with motor cooling and reduces wear and tear on the treadmill. It also includes a 15° incline, 27 workout programs, and speeds up to 19.2 km/h, making it ideal for fitness enthusiasts who want to perform professional-level training at home.

Dyaco

Taiwan is a hub for China’s fitness equipment industry, home to internationally influential brands like Johnson Health Tech, and Daiyo (Dyaco) is a representative of this sector. Daiyo exports 80% of its products to Europe and the United States and is the largest fitness equipment exporter in Taiwan. Like Johnson, Daiyo started as an OEM manufacturer for international brands and only established its own brand, Spirit, in 2008 after acquiring the U.S.-based fitness equipment company, Spirit. The company now operates four main sub-brands: Xterra, Spirit, Fuel Fitness, and UFC. Though it offers a variety of products, its core product line is the treadmill, which accounted for 48% of the company’s total revenue in 2017. In addition to its own brands, Daiyo also distributes Sole products in markets outside the U.S.

Daiyo offers a wide range of home-use treadmills, categorized primarily into three series: Fuel, Xterra, and Spirit. The Fuel series targets entry-level users and is known for its stylish and compact designs, making it ideal for smaller spaces. This series is positioned to offer excellent value for money, with models typically priced in the mid-range.

For example, the FT520 treadmill combines compact dimensions, reliable continuous power, and a sturdy frame, making it suitable for most home environments. It also features various training programs, including 15 adjustable incline settings, as well as built-in entertainment options such as QQ Music and Tencent Video, ensuring an enjoyable workout experience. The motor operates quietly, enhancing the overall user experience.

The Xterra series is designed for mid-to-high-end home users. Treadmills in this series have motor power above 2.0HP, a maximum speed of 20 km/h, and incline adjustments up to 18°, offering enhanced performance over the Fuel series. These machines are ideal for regular fitness enthusiasts who have already developed a consistent exercise habit.

The Spirit series is Daiyo’s highest-end line, catering to both premium home use and commercial applications. These models are designed with a minimalist and classic style in mind. Prices for this series generally exceed the mid-range threshold. For instance, the ST830AP/DP model boasts a robust 3HP motor and an extra-wide running belt, making it suitable for a wide range of fitness activities. It also comes equipped with safety features like an emergency stop button and safety clip, ensuring commercial-grade safety for users.

Reebok

Reebok entered the fitness equipment market in 2014, focusing on high-end home treadmills and leveraging its strong brand reputation and advanced shock absorption technologies. While its research and development capabilities are somewhat weaker compared to top-tier brands like Icon or Life Fitness, Reebok still holds a competitive edge over most local brands.

Reebok’s treadmill series mainly include the Z, JET, IRUN, and FR lines, with the JET and FR series positioned at a higher tier than the Z and IRUN. These models feature improved shock absorption and running feel, with prices typically ranging from the mid-range to higher-end.

A standout in the JET series is the JET300+, which boasts an intelligent operating system and advanced shock absorption technology. Its smart app not only tracks and uploads workout data in real time but also directly controls the treadmill and simulates various outdoor running scenarios. The treadmill automatically adjusts its incline to mimic different outdoor terrains, offering a more realistic running experience. The JETfuse intelligent shock absorption system gradually absorbs shock based on footfall sequence, effectively protecting the knees. This makes the JET300+ one of Reebok’s most highly recommended models.

The FR series features the FR30, which also comes with Reebok’s proprietary smart app for controlling incline and speed. The FLOATRIDE+ buoyant shock absorption system helps mitigate the impact of each stride, providing good rebound to reduce shock sensations. With a continuous power output of nearly 2HP, the FR30 is more powerful than the JET300+ (which has a 1.5HP motor), making it suitable for a wider range of users. However, it does not support folding, which may make it less ideal for those with limited space.

Shuhua

Shuhua is a prominent national-level sports industry demonstration unit and was the designated fitness equipment supplier for the Chinese Olympic Committee from 2013 to 2016. It was also featured at the “China House” during the Sochi Winter Olympics, providing fitness equipment for athletes’ daily training. Additionally, Shuhua was the designated fitness equipment brand for the BRICS Summit in Xiamen and is recognized as one of China’s top ten fitness equipment companies in the light industry.

With production bases in Jinjiang and Quanzhou in Fujian, as well as Shangqiu in Henan, Shuhua was one of the earliest Chinese fitness brands to venture into online channels and has since become one of the most successful in the sector. The company now boasts an industry-leading online service system with over a thousand service points across China. Its business extends to more than 40 countries and regions, including Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

Shuhua’s home treadmills are categorized into three main types: compact home use, multifunctional home use, and light luxury models.

  • Compact Home Use: A typical example of the compact home use category is the SH-9119P from the classic 9119 series. This model is simple and practical, offering stable performance. While it is a bit heavy, it features a semi-folding design with wheels for easy mobility. Its shock absorption system combines damping bags and rubber columns, providing excellent shock protection for the knees and keeping noise levels low. This model is ideal for medium-sized runners.
  • Light Luxury Models: Compared to the compact models, the light luxury series offers significantly improved power and weight capacity. The X6I from this series, for instance, has a continuous output of 2.5HP and a 130kg weight capacity. It also connects to the Shuhua sports app, offering online coaching and efficient workout data management. However, priced at the higher end of the spectrum, it doesn’t always offer the best value for money when compared to similar models with the same configuration.
  • Multifunctional Home Use: Shuhua also offers a multifunctional home series, which appears upscale but lacks notable features. These models typically include or can be equipped with features like sit-up racks and massagers. While international brands rarely promote multifunctionality as a selling point, many local brands, including Shuhua, focus on it. However, such multifunctional designs can often be impractical and unsafe. Many consumers, driven by the desire to get “more for less,” may end up spending extra to add these features, but it is generally advised not to purchase such models due to their limited usefulness and safety concerns.

 

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