Best Treadmill Under $500 in 2023

Best affordable treadmills for home use

Everyone wants to have good health. But it is hard to go outside and start working out during this pandemic period. Therefore, people start finding ways to exercise at home. Many of them look for the best treadmill under 500 as workout equipment for their home gym.

An electric treadmill can support multiple purposes with tons of built-in programs, including walking, jogging, and running. The intelligent system of this machine can even track and report your health. But overall, there are other factors for you to consider when buying a budget treadmill, including efficiency, comfort, ease in use, safety, etc.

With that being said, this article helps you find a suitable model for your needs in the price range of 500. Scroll down to discover to make a right purchase now!

In-Depth Reviews of Top 10 Treadmill under 500

#1: Sunny Health & Fitness Portable Treadmill SF-T7705 - Best For Portability 

Sunny Health & Fitness Portable Treadmill SF-T7705 draws a lot of attention from the customers on the market. It stands out among 10 products on this list due to its portability.

Moving the treadmill from place to place is like taking candy from a baby! The machine features transportation wheels that run smoothly on your home surface. You need to push the treadmill to the area you desire.

This machine is not too heavy, with just 102 lbs. Plus, the manufacturers have installed a soft drop system that helps you fold and unfold the deck effortlessly and gently for more convenience of transportation.

You can not give any complaint to the comfort in use. With a shock absorption system, the treadmill will ease the stress on your joints while you are walking. Feel free to work out as long as you can. You will never suffer from unwanted injuries!

On the downside, when running, the belt of this electric treadmill makes a whiny sound which is quite annoying. But that is the sign for calibration. Oil the belt, and it will work silently and smoothly again.

In an unwanted situation, the incline adjustment system may not work. This issue is because the wire from the incline has been detached from the main circuit board. You can try pulling off the cover of the motor section on the front side of the treadmill and reconnecting the wire.

Advice from Experts and Users:  Sunny Health & Fitness Portable Treadmill SF-T7705 supports the maximum weight of 220 lbs. It is not a good choice for overweight runners.

#2: FYC Folding Treadmill - Best For Intuitive Control

FYC Folding Treadmill gives ease in control. With the help of the multifunctional display, you can conveniently monitor and set up suitable workout programs that fit your needs.

The LCD screen shows all the details of your current workout, including the speed, time, and distance. You can determine which intensity of workout you are at and then make suitable changes.

Not only that, but this electric treadmill also counts the amount of burned calories and monitors your heart rate. These features allow you to manage your exercising process, as well as your health status. So, you can decide when you should continue running or stop.

We confirm that the FYC Folding Treadmill makes a little bit of sound during operation. But the noise is not too loud, which will not affect your workout. You can turn on some music to overwhelm it.

Some users may fall into the situation when the display does not show up. Instead, it only reports the E06 error. This is the sign of a broken motor. You can contact the manufacturer for a free replacement.

Advice from Experts and Users:  You can place the machine on carpets. However, to avoid scratching, the manufacturers recommend using thick mat instead.

#3: SereneLife Smart Electric Folding Treadmill SLFTRD20 - Best For Exercising Monitor And Management

You may consider SereneLife Smart Electric Folding Treadmill SLFTRD20 as an intelligent partner. The modern design with an LCD display and Bluetooth connection makes it capable of syncing your training process and reporting your workout data.

Like the FYC Folding Treadmill, the SLFTRD20 can show all the information of your exercise on the digital LCD screen, including speed, distance, the time that you have been running, the number of calories burned, and heart rate. But more than that, the machine is equipped with handgrip sensors to calculate and report your BPM pulse statistics.

You have permission to record and review your workout progress data. All you need to do is connect the treadmill with the FitShow application on your smartphone with the help of Bluetooth connectivity. The FitShow helps you display all training statistics and share them with your friends.

The correct position of the belt is at the center of the treadmill. However, after a while of running, you may notice this equipment keeps shifting to the left side. This problem can easily be solved. You just need to find the belt tension adjustment screw behind the treadmill. Turn it to center the equipment.

Another problem you may have while using this treadmill is that the pulse count does not show accurate results. Please keep in mind that this equipment will work the most accurately when you wrap your hands toward the end of the sensor. Make sure that your fingers can touch the screw under it.

Advice from Experts and Users:  The SLFTRD20 has a narrow shape. With wide hips, you may want to avoid purchasing this product. Otherwise, you may risk hitting the support bars while running. This may cause discomfort in use.

#4: Weslo Cadence G 5.9i - Best For Heavy Runners

The Weslo Cadence G 5.9i Cadence is the optimal choice for overweight people. This product has a high weight load and features preset programs for reducing body fat.

Previous models can handle a bodyweight of 265 lbs. But this G 5.9i treadmill takes the lead as it supports a workout person that is 275 lbs heavy. Also, the treadmill offers 50 inches of the runway, allowing any big-size person to run comfortably without falling out of the machine.

The intelligent system of Weslo Cadence G 5.9i also calculates the amount of burned calories. You can make suitable workout plans for reducing body fat based on the statistics.

Moreover, this treadmill is well known for its huge workouts library. You can purchase iFit to get access to over 16000 preset programs. Some exercises specifically focus on burning calories.

When you turn on the treadmill, a request for signing up iFit will appear. If you don’t pay money for iFit, the machine may not be usable. However, there is a trick to bypass this request. You just need to hold down the Bluetooth button for 30 seconds, and then the machine will start working.

We give a minus point to the assembly as it is quite challenging to fix the base to the upright due to the narrow width. The solution for this problem is that you loosen the bold net on both ends at first. Since the size is adjusted, you do the assembly and then tighten the screws back to the end positions.

Advice from Experts and Users: You may need to be careful when running. The belt width is just 16 inches. Without attention, you may hit 2 bars on the 2 sides while running.

#5: Merax Electric Folding Treadmill - Best For Efficiency

The Merax Electronic Folding Treadmill offers 12 preset workout programs, along with a powerful motor that helps you do versatile exercises at high intensity over a long period of time.

The 12 training programs of this foldable treadmill are divided into different intensities from low to high. As you are a beginner, you may start with the lowest mode and then increase after time.

With this Merax, you are free to work out as long as you can. As the advertisement says, the engine of this Merax model can resist temperature. This means it will not heat up after hours of operation.

Although you work at high intensity, there should be no worry about safety. The Merax belt is specially designed with a shock absorption system. It will protect your joints from unwanted injuries and maintain traction while you are running.

There is no soft drop feature in this cheap treadmill model. Therefore, you may feel the deck heavy to fold and unfold. We advise you not to do the folding alone. At least 2 people should do this task together.

Also, we feel disappointed with the vibration this machine creates during operation. As the treadmill vibrates, its components may contact the floors and scratch them. You may consider putting a thick mat underneath the machine.

Advice from Experts and Users: The maximum capacity of Merax Electric Folding Treadmill is just 240 lbs. Overweight people should avoid buying this product.

#6: Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill - Best For Adjustable Options

The Goplus Folding Treadmill works for multiple purposes. It offers adjustable options, which you can use to freely customize your own training program.

You can set up the incline in 3 different levels for running difficulty. The lowest is 0%, which is suitable for light running. If you want the exercise at high intensity, consider setting up the incline at 15% The higher the incline angle is, the more calories you can burn and the more muscles you gain.

Besides the incline, you can also choose a suitable speed range from 0.5 MPH to 7.5 MPH. You can walk slowly or sprint at the highest speed to practice endurance. Of course, the speed range is also applied at 3 different inclines.

The Goplus manufacturer has also installed 12 programs. These practices are specifically designed to help you enhance cardiovascular fitness, improve your overall health, and burn calories.

It is quite bad that the Goplus has no pause button. If you want to take a break in the middle of your training, you need to touch on the stop button. However, when you turn the machine back on, all settings you have made so far will be reset.

Another thing we need to mention is that the distance tracking system does not show the correct result. But luckily, there are many applications in smart devices that track the distance better.

Advice from Experts and Users: The Goplus Folding Treadmill is not recommended for heavy runners, as the maximum weight capacity is only 250 lbs.

#7: Ravent Folding Treadmill - Best For Safety

You can rely on the Ravent Folding Treadmill for safe running. This model beats other opponents due to many safety features, such as a soft drop system, safety clip, and pulse monitor.

Many foldable treadmills do not support soft dropping. If you don’t be careful, the heavy deck of the machine may fall onto your feet, causing injury. This case never happens if you use the Ravent model. The soft drop system will help you fold and unfold the deck with safety and ease.

We give our compliment to the anti-slip and anti-static belt. They work to support traction and protect your knees and ankles. Thanks to the belt, you will be able to run stably during the entire training period.

The treadmill features a pulse monitor, which calculates your heart rate. The statistics will be shown on the LCD display. If the results are not normal, you can pull out the safety clip to start emergency shutting down.

What we dislike is the noise coming from the machine vibration. It is quite loud that may annoy you and other people around. We advise you to add noise dampers right under the treadmill base. These pieces of equipment will help reduce the noise.

Although the advertised weight limit is 220 lbs, the true capacity is 260 lbs. However, if you are heavier than 220 lbs, please avoid bouncing when you run on the belt. High pressure may still cause the deck to break down.

Advice from Experts and Users: Despite the safety features, you may still get injured if using the treadmill incorrectly. As the manufacturer’s advice, children under 14 years old should not use this model.

#8: XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill - Best For Powerful And Smooth Operation

The XTERRA Fitness TR150 is equipped with a strong motor that supports high-intensity running over a long period. While most powerful machines have issues with vibration, this TR150 model runs smoothly, all thanks to its stabilizing design.

The powerful 2.25HP motor allows the machine to work efficiently. Not all models can support a high belt rolling speed of 10 MPH as this one does.

Even at the max settings, you never worry about the vibration of this treadmill. The manufacturers have applied alloy steel to increase the sturdiness. With a stabilizing design, the machine will not shake or cause discomfort in use.

We have a bad experience with the loud noise this machine makes during the first days of use. However, we tried removing the plastic tray under the motor, and the noise went on forever.

In some rare cases, you may notice the ON/OFF switch illuminated, but the screen does not display anything (black screen). This issue is due to the display wiring not being connected to the motherboard. All you need to do is attach the wire to the circuit board, and the treadmill will work properly.

Advice from Experts and Users: The machine has a powerful motor that accepts a maximum belt speed of 10 MPH. For heavy runners, this model is a perfect treadmill to buy!

#9: Windaze Under Desk Treadmill - Best For Quiet Operation

The windaze Under Desk Treadmill will not annoy people around you. The motor and steel frame construction combine together to reduce the noise to the minimum.

The durable steel frame constitutes a system that absorbs all shocks and vibrations. As the machine does not shake, no noise will be created.

Also, the manufacturers have installed a shock-absorbing layer on the belt. It withdraws all shocks coming from your feet. This design is to protect your joints and reduce the contact sound between you and the running surface.

In detail, the power of the motor is just 1.5 HP. The electricity current that this machine supply is not as high as other models do. You will be amazed by how quiet the treadmill is.

But the low motor does not allow the belt to roll fastly. The maximum speed this treadmill offers is 4 MPH. It is suitable for people who often walk, not run.

On the other hand, the windaze Under Desk is not a solution for those who prefer a space-saving treadmill. It is quite bad that the machine is not foldable. Hence, we advise you to store the machine in the corner to optimize the room space.

Advice from Experts and Users: The available speed is between 0 MPH and 4 MPH. Joggers and runners should avoid buying this walking treadmill.

#10: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515 - Best For Music

The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515 allows you to entertain yourself while running. It supports playing music in different ways to enhance your moods and keep you enduring on the running surface.

The manufacturers have equipped onboard crystal clear stereo speakers. You can connect your smartphone to the treadmill through the media port and play your favorite songs. Of course, there are options to adjust the volume, play, pause, stop, and switch music right on the control panel.

If you don’t have a suitable cord to connect the phone to the media port, you can try another method, which is using Bluetooth. Rest assured that the sound quality remains high in wireless connections.

The safety handles of this treadmill are quite short. Also, the edges at the ends are quite narrow. Without carefulness, you may whack your hands on these edges and get hurt while running. Our advice is you should cover the edges with foams or soft pads.

In a rare situation, the LCD screen notices an E1 error. It is a technical issue, and you need to contact the manufacturers to fix it. Otherwise, you may not be able to use the treadmill.

Advice from Experts and Users: The product is good to use right out of the box. However, for high durability and smooth operation, the manufacturers advise you to lubricate the belt before the first use.

How To Buy A Budget Treadmill ( $500 )

Cushioning

The cushion of a treadmill plays an important role in the comfort in use. When you run, the entire pressure of your body is put on your legs. If the treadmill does not have a cushion, your joints, knees, or ankles can hurt after a long period of exercising.

You can consider a cushion as a soft spring that helps your foot reduce the force when running. With a high amount of cushion, the treadmill will give you the comfort to run longer.

Fan

Some modern treadmills today have fans installed. The fan keeps you cool and comfortable while running. Some runners have a habit of wearing jackets or sweaters to accelerate fat loss. And treadmill fans are perfect for them as they run.

Not all models support integrated fans. Please ask the sellers to determine whether the product features a cooling system or not.

The Console

There are 2 types of consoles for an inexpensive treadmill, which are analog and digital. You choose the best console depending on your preference.

The Analog console has only buttons. You tap on a button to start the machine and tap on another button to stop it. This type of console is suitable for most users, as it is easy to use.

Smart consoles feature an inductive digital screen. You can tap on the screen to make changes to the device. Technically, the control panel includes a section to choose the type of exercise, running mode, running speed, incline levels.

In addition, they show both the number of calories you burned, the calculated heart rate, and the period of time you have run. With these numbers, new players will know the intensity of training, thereby improving their running power.

Incline Levels

If you want to increase your running intensity, you can adjust incline levels. The incline of a treadmill simulates the slope. As you walk on the belt, you will feel like you are going uphill.

When buying, you should check how many inclines levels the treadmills support. The common adjustable range is from 0% to 15%, with 0.5% increments.

Custom Running Programs

High-end treadmills offer a variety of different training programs. Each program focuses on improving a part of your body. The great thing is you can customize the intensity to suit your needs.

Many models even have video programs. There will be an online coach who guides you on how to do the workout correctly. But this feature requires an extra fee. You may consider whether the video programs are essential or not.

Weight Capacity

Each treadmill can handle a maximum user weight. You should not be heavier than the capacity of your machine. Otherwise, the machine may break down under high pressure.

Conventional running treadmills can handle weight from 220 lbs to 350 lbs. Professional models are better, with a maximum capacity of 500 lbs.

Heart Rate Sensors

A heart rate monitor is also essential for your workout. It calculates the heartbeat and blood pressure and sends the reports to you. This feature prevents you from over-exercising, which may cause strokes.

Heart rate sensors require an extra fee. But we totally advise you to purchase it.

Warranty

Every time you buy an electronic product, pay attention to the product’s warranty. It allows you to exchange for several parts or repair your high-end treadmill for free.

Without the warranty, you will need to pay money to fix technical issues, even when they are the fault of the manufacturers.

What you need to notice is the period of the warranty. Some models come with a guarantee of 1 year. Some are better with 2 or 3 years.

Don’t forget to check what the warranty includes. Good manufacturers should accept replacing broken components or have a policy for a refund.

Belt Size

We always recommend a quality treadmill with a big belt. As you know, the belt is the running surface. You may have bad running experience with a small belt.

The standard belt width for walkers is 16 inches. This number is 22 inches for joggers and runners.

Second-hand Purchase

Second-hand treadmills may attract you for their cheap price. However, old treadmills may break down at any time, and such an issue is not avoidable.

Unless you have no other choice, we advise you to buy new products from the manufacturers. Otherwise, please check all components carefully before making a second-hand purchase.

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Cheap Treadmill Buying - FAQs

How Long Do Treadmills Last?

On average, the durability of an inexpensive treadmill is around 10 years. But this does not mean the machine will stop working after this period.

If you maintain your treadmill regularly, it can totally last more than 10 years. On the opposite side, if you don’t take care of your machine, some parts of it may start working improperly after a time of use.

Is The Treadmill Good For Belly Fat?

Treadmills are a great exercising machine that supports burning belly fat. It is recommended to spend at least 30 minutes - 1 hour a day running on the treadmill.

How To Maintain Your Treadmill?

As mentioned, regular maintenance will help extend the treadmill's durability. Here are some good ways you can follow to maintain your machine:

Clean all dust around the treadmill. Small particles such as dust may rust the metal parts

Lubricate the wheels and belts so that they can run smoothly

Clean the machine using a towel every time you complete running.

Test all functions on the machine once a week to detect issues

Only run when you have your clean shoes on

Avoid letting pets or children play around the treadmill

What Does CHP Mean On The Treadmill?

CHP stands for Continuous Horsepower. It describes the level of power that the engine in the treadmill can provide continuously.

The higher the CHP, the more efficient the treadmill will run. If you want to do heavy workout mode, you may consider getting a treadmill with high power.

How Much Horsepower Should My Home Treadmill Have?

Depending on your exercising purposes, you will decide on the suitable horsepower. The common treadmills on the market have horsepower ranging from 1.5 HP to 3.0 HP.

The higher the HP is, the stronger your running machine’s motor becomes. However, a strong motor usually makes loud noise during operation. Therefore, the HP from 1.5 to 2.5 is our recommendation.

Read more: Top rated treadmill for home use

Do I Need Special Shoes To Run On A Treadmill?

You can wear any pair of shoes that you have. There is no requirement for what shoes you should wear.

But make sure that the shoes are clean. The item which is full of dirt may make the machine dirty. Moreover, the dirt under the shoes may scratch the metal surfaces.

Conclusion

The best treadmill under 500 should fully fill all 4 requirements, which are efficiency, ease in use, safety in use, and comfort.

Also, the machine should have the right features and power levels that serve your purposes.

In our opinion, the XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill deserves to be the best product overall. It has a powerful motor to support wide speed settings from 0 MPH to 10 MPH. You can set up a suitable speed for your purposes, no matter if you like walking, jogging, or running.

Plus, the stabilizing design allows the machine to run smoothly with minimum vibration. You never worry about annoying people around you.

 With the complete list of the best running machines at the price range of 500  provided to you, what is your choice? Please share it with us!