Quick Summary
Nautilus recently updated its Performance Series of cardio trainers with a new top-of-the-line model, the T618 Treadmill. This $1299 treadmill for runners is meant to be a bargain even at full price: New owners get a 3.5 CHP motor, advanced cushioning, wireless pulse monitoring, Bluetooth data syncing, and compatibility with RunSocial — all with a five-year parts/electronics warranty. Get the details from FitRated’s complete Nautilus T618 Treadmill review.
Specifications
| Model | Nautilus T618 |
| Rating |  84.5% |
| List Price | $1279 |
| Best Price | $1,099 |
| Speed | 0 - 12 mph |
| Incline | 0 - 15% |
| Motor | 3.5 CHP peak AC motor |
| Deck | 20" x 60" |
| Belt | n/a |
| Folding? |  |
| Programs | 26 |
| Max. Weight | 350 |
| Heart Rate | Contact Grips |
| Dimensions | 86" x 33" x 13" |
| Display | Basic LED Display |
| Cooling Fans | |
| Accessory Tray | |
| Speakers | |
| Quick Controls | |
| Warranty | Frame & Motor: 15 years Parts: 5 years Labor: 2 years |
Rating:
Our Rating
Rating: 84.5/100. The Nautilus T618 Treadmill for runners hit the home gym market in late 2016. Priced at just $1299 and featuring some high-end parts, it seems almost too good to be the “real deal” — but so far we haven’t heard any complaints. This unit and a few other folding treadmills for 2016/2017 are challenging the old rule that if a treadmill can be folded, corners must have been cut. In fact the main drawback of the T618 could be its impressive heft: A powerful motor, large rollers and other substantial components help create a more than 250-pound machine.
Below we list and describe performance-related specifics, plus we explain the “mixed reality” or virtual reality workout programs that are available with the RunSocial mobile app.
Pros:
- Foldable to help conserve space
- Four user profiles
- 3.5 CHP motor
- Top speed 12 mph
- Workout area 20” wide x 60” long
- Advanced cushioning
- Automated incline up to 15%
- 2.75” diameter belt rollers for quiet operation and longevity
- 26 built-in workout apps
- Compatible with RunSocial “mixed reality” training (described below)
- Media shelf securely holds phone/tablet
- Bluetooth enabled for wireless stats sharing
- Chest strap for wireless pulse monitoring
- Water bottle holder and towel rack
- User weight capacity is 350 pounds
Cons:
- Heavy machine weight
- Default display is ho-hum; workouts are much more engaging with the addition of a tablet computer and RunSocial
- Motor warranty is below average
Introduction
The new Nautilus T618 is a mid-priced treadmill for runners and walkers. Regarding performance, it’s loaded with above-average components for its price class. Regarding programming, it offers excellent variety with 26 built-in programs and the option to integrate RunSocial (tablet computer required). Here are details about the workouts and other features.
Workout Programs
The T618 Treadmill supports four user profiles. Main benefits of using a profile are 1) more accurate feedback (especially about calorie burn) and 2) the ability to track workout activity long-term.
The console holds 26 standard training programs. It also has a shelf for a tablet computer or smartphone (iPad or iPhone), which can be used as a display for RunSocial programming.
- Standard programs automate the tread belt’s speed and incline to support efficient progress toward goals for weight management, endurance and interval training. Heart rate, calories burned, and other program data are shown in two wide windows with soft backlighting for easy reading. At the conclusion of each workout the treadmill assigns a fitness score.
- RunSocial programs can be accessed with an iPhone or iPad. The RunSocial app is called a “mixed reality” platform because it combines users’ avatars with interactive video of real-life routes. As you exercise on the treadmill, your avatar moves through scenic video at the same pace. The RunSocial lets you choose from a walk or run in Tibet, a hike through the Scottish Highlands, a marathon route in London, and much more. You can download a free sample of any video and pay about $5 to download a full route. The visuals stream by at your workout pace, ambient audio can be included, and RunSocial tracks your performance stats. Your avatar is a somewhat realistic-looking man or woman. (Unfortunately you can’t change his/her physical features, but you can dress the avatar in your favorite colors.) The “social” part of the app refers to other avatars. If you like, you can plan a virtual run with your friends and family, or you can share a route with RunSocial users from around the world. By tapping on an avatar you can see the user’s profile picture and hometown.
Nautilus T618 Features
A full-sized treadmill for runners, the Nautilus T618 is approximately three feet wide and six feet long. It weighs more than 250 pounds. For space-saving the treadmill’s deck can easily be “folded” or pushed into a vertical position. When the deck is later released, it slowly and gently falls back into exercise mode.
The 3.5 CHP motor can support speeds up to 12 mph. The motor offers a good deal of power, but we wouldn’t necessarily count on it for marathon running. (A marathoner should generally opt for a treadmill with 4.0 CHP if possible, and we’d look for a motor with a lifetime warranty.)
A secondary motor powers the treadmill’s incline. It can push the track to a maximum 15% angle for extra challenge and to simulate outdoor routes.
Advanced cushioning on the T618 is firmer at the point of push-off and softer in the “landing zone” at the front of the track. Known as Rebound Cushioning, it’s the top Nautilus option for impact deflection.
The training surface is the standard size for treadmill running, 20” wide and 60” long. The belt is remarkably high quality for a treadmill under $1500: It’s three-ply and 2.5 mm thick. (For comparison, many home treadmills have thinner single-ply belts that bring noisy operation, require more maintenance and wear out quickly.) Also worth noting is that the belt moves over rollers with 2.75” diameter, which is relatively large for a home treadmill and helps prevent wear on the belt and motor.
This cardio trainer is shipped with a chest strap for wireless heart rate monitoring. The console can store workout data and has a Bluetooth connection for sending statistics to various fitness apps.
For digital distraction this cardio trainer has a media shelf and speakers.
Other amenities include a three-speed fan, a water bottle holder and a towel rack.
Warranty & Guarantee
The manufacturer’s warranty for the Nautilus T618 provides the following coverage:
– Motor and Frame: 15 years
– Parts and electronics: 5 years
– Labor:2 years
When a customer buys directly from Nautilus, returns are accepted within six weeks of purchase. Note that the buyer pays for shipping and other expenses though, so the trial isn’t completely free.
Conclusion
The Nautilus T618 Treadmill is designed to expertly serve an avid runner or multi-user household for at least several years. Although it’s a foldable treadmill, it has the same performance capacity as non-folding alternatives in its price class. Highlights range from a well-cushioned deck to a console with the option to integrate “mixed reality” training. We’re a bit wary of the substandard motor warranty (15 years instead of lifetime), but taking everything into account the T618 looks like a good deal for runners at $1299.