Best Treadmills Under $500 of 2024

Treadmills Under $500 Buying Guide

Treadmills priced at under $500 are often referred to as “budget treadmills” because they are the most affordable treadmills. Treadmills under $500 can be efficient for people on a very tight budget and/or who are looking to purchase their very first treadmill and do not want to spend $3,000 on their first purchase. If that is the case then you will find several things to appreciate with the stripped down under $500 lines.

First and foremost, you need to understand that the only way treadmill manufactures will offer lines for under $500 is because they do not provide all the features that higher priced models offer. Additionally, several of the vital specs such as motor and deck may not be adequate for certain users. The quality of parts and overall production are also likely to be inferior to higher priced models.

One of the major areas that under $500 treadmills will fall short is power and stability. If you plan to use the trainer primarily for walking the under $500 treadmills may be totally fine because products in this price range traditionally have lower powered motors (with 10 mph max speed). Regardless if you walk or run, stability is a huge concern for larger users. Generally, treadmill manufactures spike up their max user weight and this is almost always the case with treadmills under $500. Consequently, make sure you factor in the stability before you purchase an under $500 treadmill. No one wants something that will break down immediately. No one.

Along with sacrificing something in almost every major spec, consumers of under $500 treadmills can expect less versatility with the incline (some are also only adjusted manually), smaller than average running surface and less workout programs. The treadmill might not include basics like a cooling fan, pulse grips, quick controls and iPod dock as well.

Remember, you truly get what you pay for.

Truthfully, there are some really fantastic treadmills under $500, some of which are well rated on FitRated.com. If you are patient and wait for a good deal you just might find the next treadmill for your home. Unlike some of the higher treadmill price ranges, the under $500 products are not consistent meaning that you might find a steal but you could also invest in one of the worst treadmills around. It really is hit or miss.

When shopping for a treadmill under $500 make sure that you double check and compare the size of the motor, running surface (or deck) and max user weight. It has to fit your individual needs. Since treadmills under $500 are so cheap, you’ll likely get a poor warranty so make sure your purchase is not in vain.