The best folding treadmill for 2025, tested and reviewed
Having a treadmill at home makes fitting cardio into your daily routine more doable, especially since it eliminates some of the biggest barriers to fitness, including limited access to fitness facilities ... and the motivation to actually get there. But then there's the treadmill obstacle — they're big! Enter the folding treadmill: all the benefits of a traditional treadmill in a more compact design.
The best folding treadmill brings all the benefits of walking and running — activities shown to lower risk of chronic diseases, boost heart health, manage weight and improve mood — right to your home. Beyond convenience, these machines offer personalized workouts that fit your current fitness level. "You can walk, jog or run at your own pace, and adjusting speed and incline lets you tailor workouts to your fitness level, so treadmills are great for beginners and seasoned athletes alike," says Michael Betts, director at TrainFitness.
Today, there are folding treadmills that suit every budget and need. While this is great, it also makes choosing the best folding treadmill more complicated. That's why we tested 11 popular models to help you find the right one for you. As a personal trainer and strength and conditioning specialist, I've narrowed our list to find the best folding treadmill overall, plus a few more options designed to fit different needs and preferences.
Deck dimensions: 20" W x 60" L | Storage: Upright with 4 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 35" W x 50" L x 66" H | Max incline: 15% | Max speed: 12 mph | Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 3-year deck/parts, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.0 HP | Standout features: Quick speed dials, Bluetooth speakers, heart rate monitor, fan, USB port, tablet holder, free app access
Our top pick for best folding treadmill is the Sole F63 Treadmill, which could not be easier to fold. It has a kick-release function that makes lifting, lowering and locking the treadmill into place practically effortless. And once folded, multiple wheels help you move this 224-pound treadmill into place.
Of course, you want your folding treadmill to deliver a great workout too — and this one does. The Sole F63 features a motor that can handle up to 12 mph, and it has an impressive 15% incline. Its 60-inch-long cushioned deck feels comfortable during walks and runs. The powder coated steel frame plus internal flywheel to help keep the motor cool are both durability pluses.
Another strong point for this treadmill is its value, costing under $1,200, but you'd never know it's a budget model. While the F63 is not super high-tech, its simple speed and incline controls are intuitive, making it very beginner-friendly. It features a 6.5-inch LCD screen with pulse, distance, time, calories, speed and program displayed, along with progress graphs.
This treadmill also boasts Bluetooth speakers, a tablet holder, a USB charging port and a generous storage tray for hydration and energy gels, which are all nice bonuses, especially for the price. Plus, you get free access to hundreds of fitness classes via the Sole+ app.
Of note: Vibration does kick in at higher speeds, and if you want in-room assembly, it'll cost you $350, which is recommended if you don't have help or experience.
Deck dimensions: 20 x 60 inch | Max incline: 12% | Max decline: None | Max speed: 12 mph | Folding: Yes | Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts and motor, 1-year tablet, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.6 CHP | Standout features: iFIT compatibility, 16-inch HD touchscreen, fan, USB-C charging port, easy fold
Serious runners need a treadmill that can keep up, and the Pro-Form Carbon Pro 9000 rises to the challenge. As NordicTrack's more affordable sister brand, it combines what matters most: a sturdy 3.6 continuous horsepower motor for those long training sessions and a smooth and spacious deck that gives you room to hit your stride. And at 20 inches wide and 60 inches long, the belt is ideal for taking long strides, even if you're on the taller side.
The shock absorption? Excellent, according to our tester, striking an ideal balance — softer than road running but firmer than some other treadmills, making it perfect for those who want their indoor training to translate well to outdoor runs. This sweet spot in shock absorption provides a comfortable experience while preventing joint and foot strain during frequent training sessions.
Our tester also loved the Carbon Pro 9000's quick-adjusting speed and incline controls and the moderate up to 12% incline. The 16-inch touchscreen provides access to iFIT programming (for the $39 monthly fee) and tracks your stats and progress, complete with Bluetooth connectivity for headphones and fitness trackers and built-in speakers.
While it's a substantial machine, the Carbon Pro 9000 folds to just 44 inches long and 67.5 inches tall when stored. This space-saving design, along with its 350-pound weight capacity and convenient USB-C charging port, makes it an excellent choice for those who want top-tier performance without sacrificing practicality.
Deck dimensions: 22" W x 60" L | Storage: Upright with 4 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 38" W x 42" L x 70" H | Max incline: 15% | Max speed: 12 mph | Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 3-year deck/parts, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.5 HP | Standout features: USB port, tablet holder, Bluetooth speakers, free app access
Tall runners who typically have to hunch to reach the handlebars or see the console will appreciate the Sole F80's elevated design that all but eliminates these obstacles. Plus, the running deck measures 22 by 60 inches, which is plenty big enough for taller folks with a wide stance and a long stride. The well-cushioned deck ensures a comfortable workout no matter your height.
While the machine accommodates users up to 350 pounds, the handrails are surprisingly short in length, which might concern those looking for extra support.
The centerpiece of the F80 is a thoughtfully designed console featuring a 10-inch touchscreen with streaming apps, a phone/tablet mount positioned at a comfortable eye level and wireless phone charging. The Sole+ app, included free, offers hundreds of fitness classes.
Even when folded, the F80 still takes up quite a bit of space with a height of 70 inches. However, its four-wheel transport system (compared to the standard two wheels on many competitors) makes repositioning this biggie significantly easier.
Deck dimensions: 20" W x 60" L | Storage: Upright with 4 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 31" W x 74" L x 10" H | Max incline: 12% | Max speed: 12 mph | Warranty: 10-year frame, 5-year motor, 1-year comprehensive | Motor: 3.0 CHP | Standout features: Low step-up height, pivoting 22" HD touchscreen, removable bottleholder/device tray
For seniors seeking a stable, safe workout experience, the Echelon Stride-4s-22 delivers with comfortable, solid handrails and an exceptionally stable walking and running surface. Built-in heart rate sensors help monitor exertion levels, while an emergency stop button and safety strap offer additional peace of mind.
The user-friendly design makes this model particularly accessible: Speed controls are conveniently located on the handlebars (though they lack numerical indicators), and the large, pivoting 22" HD touchscreen is easy to read. When it comes to storage, the folding mechanism requires minimal strength, and four wheels make repositioning manageable.
We found the interface notably easy when setting up profiles and selecting programs. However, note that there are no built-in programs — you'll need an Echelon Premier Membership ($39/month) to use the screen's features.
Deck dimensions: 16.5" W x 42.4" L | Storage: Flat with 2 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 22" W x 50" L x 6.1" H | Max incline: 9% | Max speed: 7.6 mph | Warranty: 2-year extended warranty | Motor: 2.5 HP | Standout features: 2-in-1 versatility, 6 HIIT running programs, dual-screen design
For those looking for a double-duty under-desk walking pad and a foldable treadmill, the Urevo Strol 2S Pro comes out on top. With a max speed of 7.6 miles per hour and up to 9% incline, this versatile machine lets you intensify your workout whether walking during work hours or jogging after.
The dual displays show your workout stats clearly, while the included remote makes speed and incline adjustments convenient during under-desk use. Four built-in programs help you hit workout targets, and Bluetooth connectivity lets you pair with apps like Zwift and Peloton for more variety. Its shock absorption system provides comfort for extended sessions.
At nearly 75 pounds, it's not quite as easy to move as you might expect, though built-in wheels help. And while the pause function resets to the lowest speed instead of maintaining your previous pace, here's the clincher: Research indicates using an under-desk treadmill may help you burn an extra 105 calories an hour compared to sitting — a huge win in our books. Plus, it's so compact, you can easily store it under furniture. Another win!
Deck dimensions: 20" W x 55" L | Storage: Upright with 2 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 41" W x 44" L x 59" H | Max incline: 12% | Max speed: 10 mph | Warranty: Lifetime motor and frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.0 CHP | Standout features: Free 3-month Centr membership, 10" touchscreen, built-in streaming apps, device holder
Starting your running journey is easy with the Centr Runr-S, which includes a free three-month digital membership featuring a comprehensive workout library, from interval training to military-style fitness tests.
Life Time personal trainer Sarah Pope emphasizes the importance of structured training. "Following a plan that matches your goals is crucial for success," she explains. The Centr platform delivers on this perfectly with guided workouts, nutrition tips and mindfulness content. (At just $12.75/month after the free trial, it's an excellent value.)
All the built-in workouts and streaming apps, including Netflix, Disney+ and YouTube, can be accessed via the 10-inch touchscreen, which is responsive and easy to navigate. While the Wi-Fi capability is great, you're limited to preloaded options and can't download extra apps. Also, in testing we couldn't get the screen mirroring feature to work.
Keep in mind that while the Centr Runr-S is foldable and portable, it's too wide to roll through standard doorways. But all in all, the treadmill feels sturdy and made to last, so you can use it confidently well beyond the beginning of your fitness journey.
Deck dimensions: 22 x 60 inch | Max incline: 15% | Max decline: None | Max speed: 12 mph | Folding: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 5-year parts, 2-year service | Motor: 3.5 CHP | Standout features: Bluetooth heart rate monitor, fan, media rack, USB charging port
Interval training is based on quick transitions between high and low intensity, and the Horizon 7.4 AT is built for just that. Its rotary controls enable you to instantly switch between speeds and inclines with precision — no fumbling with buttons or losing precious seconds during your intervals. This rapid-response design ensures every sprint, climb and recovery phase hits right on cue.
What really sets the Horizon 7.4 AT apart is its powerful 15% incline range and 12 mph top speed. The treadmill offers tons of options for designing fun and progressively challenging interval workouts. The tread provides a range of built-in HIIT workouts, but you can also sync your treadmill with training apps like Peloton or download the free atZone app to gain access to on-demand classes and scenic routes.
To maximize your interval training, the treadmill offers precise heart rate monitoring with hand-grip sensors and an included Bluetooth chest strap, which syncs with fitness apps to keep you on target during recovery periods.
Of note: While the Horizon 7.4 AT does fold for storage, it's heavy and may be challenging to move.
A folding treadmill is a relatively big purchase that requires some forward thinking. Here are some of the most important points to consider before buying:
Folding design and ease of use: Folding treadmills generally come in one of two formats: flat-folding models with adjustable handlebars that secure in an upright position with latches or thumbscrews, or upright-folding models that lift at the deck. The upright design most often uses hydraulic assistance, making it easier to lift the deck while also ensuring it lowers in a smooth and controlled fashion. Flat-folding models often take up less space when folded, but they may lack some of the features of upright-folding options.
Storage dimensions vs. available storage space: Consider your storage space carefully. Flat-folding treadmills can be as slim as 5 inches high, perfect for sliding under a bed, couch or desk. Upright-folding models save floor space by halving their length (for example, 80 inches becomes 40), but need more height clearance than when in use. They may also still look big and bulky in your space.
Transport wheels: Most folding treadmills have two wheels mounted either at the front or under the middle of the deck, so they need to be tipped slightly to move them. It's a good idea to check the weight of the treadmill you're interested in before buying, as a heavier treadmill may require more than one person to move it safely. Some higher-end models have four wheels and can be moved around much more easily after folding up the deck.
Belt size: Belt size matters, especially for runners and taller users, says Betts. Most home treadmills offer 20-inch-wide belts, though some are as wide as 24 inches — nice for those with a wider gait or who tend to drift from side to side while walking or jogging. A longer belt — ideally 55 to 60 inches — provides more room to move comfortably and safely. Users over 6 feet tall may need even longer belts.
Performance vs. portability: When choosing a folding treadmill, consider the balance between features and mobility. High-performance models deliver the full package — advanced cushioning, powerful motors and premium electronics — but often tip the scales at 300 pounds or more. Portable models sacrifice some stability and speed for a lighter, simpler design that's easier to move and store. The upside? They're usually gentler on your wallet.
Finding the best folding treadmill means balancing workout performance with space-saving convenience. We put 11 models through their paces, assessing everything from running comfort and speed transitions to how smoothly they fold and store. With guidance from fitness experts, we evaluated the features that matter most: folding mechanisms, motor power, belt cushioning, display clarity and bonus elements like touchscreens and Bluetooth. Our hands-on/feet-on testing revealed which treadmills truly deliver on exercise quality and space efficiency, helping you choose a model that works for your workout goals and your home.
NordicTrack Commercial 2450: A premium treadmill packed with features, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 ($2,499) boasts pluses like a 24-inch touchscreen and a 14-mile-an-hour top speed, faster than any other treadmill on the list. It doesn't quite make the cut on account of its size and weight, making it awkward to move and store even when folded.
XTerra WalkSlim WS300: This treadmill is easy to use and folds to a height of just 8.5 inches, making it incredibly easy to store. It offers incline controls too, which is a rare treat for this under-$1,000 price point. The bummer? The smaller running surface, stability issues at higher speeds and limited incline functionality take away from its performance.
WalkingPad Denise Austin 2.0: When folded, the Denise Austin 2.0 ($999) is more compact than the other treadmills on this list, making it ideal for tight spaces. While it comes in fashion-y colors, like gray and powder blue, the shock-absorbing capability doesn't really hold up at higher speeds.
Mobvoi Home Treadmill SE: Due to the amount of vibration and sideways movement when running, in addition to the super-small deck size (17 by 40 inches), the budget SE ($129) holds up much better as a walking pad than as a treadmill.
You'll get nearly all the benefits of a standard treadmill with the added bonus of space-saving design. While folding models might skip specialized features like extreme inclines or curved decks, they generally match nonfolding treadmills in most ways that matter for everyday workouts.
Plan for more than just the machine's roughly 7-by-3-foot footprint. You'll need a minimum of 2 feet of clearance on each side and 6 feet behind for safe use. The good news? When folded upright, the treadmill takes up roughly half its footprint — just remember it'll extend taller, so be sure to account for the treadmill's folded height too.
Yes, most quality folding treadmills offer the same sturdy construction and cushioning as their nonfolding counterparts, making them perfectly stable for running. Just keep in mind that budget models might sacrifice some stability to keep prices lower.
First, ensure you have enough clearance for safe use: 2 feet on each side and 6 feet behind the deck. Then consider storage: Check the folded height against your ceiling and look for built-in wheels for easy moving. If you're planning to store it under furniture or against a wall, consider models that fold completely flat.
Michael Betts, personal trainer and director of fitness at TrainFitness, a fitness education provider
Sara Pope, personal trainer and group fitness instructor with Life Time Clarendon in Arlington, Va.
Jay Silva, running coach with Teachme.to, a platform that connects students with instructors
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
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