Best Treadmills of 2023
Whether you're looking for a compact treadmill, a budget model, or a high-end machine for your home, we have you covered
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There are plenty of things that can derail your outdoor running plans, all providing reasons to own a treadmill at home. Winter’s snow or summer’s suffocating heat and humidity can make a run unappealing or even unsafe. Or perhaps you can’t leave your house because your kids are sleeping or you’re waiting for a delivery.
Because of these potential hurdles, a treadmill can be a crucial addition to your home. Buying one of the best treadmills for home use ensures that you can always get that run in. Consistency is essential, whether you’re starting to exercise for the first time in a while, getting ready for a half-marathon, or just trying to hit your recommended levels of cardio exercise.
How We Test Treadmills
CR’s tests focus on ease of use, construction quality (including design, noise and feel, and durability), ergonomics (how well the machine accommodates different users), exercise range, and user safety.
For exercise range, we assess whether a machine is suitable for a variety of fitness levels. Our tests factor in the range of treadmill speeds, the incline range, stability, cushioning, and more.
Our user safety tests evaluate the security of folding models, the accessibility of the emergency stop button, the workings of the safety key (which stops the treadmill if you fall), and more.
We also perform a durability test using custom rigs made of giant metal drums covered with rubber “feet.” Each rig runs along each treadmill for a total of 25 hours to simulate half a year of use. The results of that test are factored into our construction rating. For more details on how we test treadmills, see our treadmill buying guide.
Best Treadmills for a Home Gym
The roundup below includes some of our top picks from our tests of both nonfolding and folding treadmills.
Editor’s Note: Peloton recalled its Tread and Tread+ treadmills on May 5, 2021, after the Tread+ was linked to dozens of injuries, and the company said the Tread’s screen could detach and fall. Peloton is offering customers a full refund. Consumer Reports removed the Peloton Tread+ from its ratings and stopped recommending the product. It is no longer available for sale. The Tread in CR’s current ratings is an updated model. For more information, see our article about the Peloton treadmill recall.
Maintaining Your Exercise Equipment
No matter what kind of exercise equipment you have, a little regular cleaning helps prevent germs from spreading and keeps your machine in tip-top shape.
The Rundown on Treadmills
Ready to lose those extra pounds? A former Consumer Reports expert, Peter Anzalone, shows “Consumer 101” TV host Jack Rico which treadmill features will give him a run for his money.
BEST TIME TO BUY: 
