Getting in shape shouldn’t include the slimming of our wallets. Below you’ll find the our picks for the five best treadmills under $1000. This article will explain features of each, strengths and weaknesses, as well as a short review in an effort to give you the best information needed to find the right exercise equipment to fit your lifestyle and wallet. While all these models are less than a thousand dollars, the list will start from least expensive in that range to the most expensive.
Proform 505 CST Treadmill
Pros:
- Least expensive of the 5
- iPod compatible
- ProShox cushioning
Cons:
- Noisy
- Poor assembly instructions
The Proform 505 CST weighs in at 186lbs with a 300lbs weight capacity. Featuring a 20in x 50in run surface with Proshox cushioning, the 505 CST gives runners plenty of room and maximum comfort when using anyone of the 15 built-in workout apps. Another favorite feature among users is the iPod compatible built-in sound system. Runners and walkers alike can exercise while listening to their favorite music, podcast, or audiobook. Warranties for the 505 CST include a lifetime for the frame, a 25-yr for the motor, and a 1-yr warranty on parts & labor.
Proform Power 795 Treadmill
Pros:
- CoolAire workout fan
- Dual Grip EKG Heart Monitor
- NikePlus compatible
Cons:
- iFit connectivity issues
- Poor customer service
Though in the second spot, the Proform Power 795 came very close to the 505 CST in terms of price. The Proform 505 CST was listed around $849.00 with the Power 795 coming in around $866.00. However, savvy shoppers will find the Power 795 listed at some retailers for about $700-$800. The 795 has all the same features as the 505 CST and also comes with the CoolAire workout fan to give a more comfortable workout and is NikePlus compatible. The Power 795 weighs in at about 242lbs with a 325lbs weight capacity.
Smooth Fitness 5.65 Treadmill
Pros:
- 2.75 HP Continuous Duty Motor
- Durable construction
- Handle control buttons
Cons:
- Squeaking noise
- Customer Service issues
With the second most powerful motor on the list, the Smooth Fitness 5.65 is a strong competitor. It receives high marks for its well built frame and running platform and the control buttons built in to the handles are a big plus for many users. At $949.00 the price is quite reasonable for the quality of the machine, but those who have had issues with the treadmill state the customer service as being the biggest downside with this particular model.
Lifespan TR 1200i Folding Treadmill
Pros:
- Multi-colored LCD display
- Quiet when operating
- Soft touch keys
Cons:
- Assembly difficulties
- No USB port
As the highest rated among consumers (4.5/5 stars) the Lifespan TR 1200i is an incredible deal. Listed at most retailers for around $995, this treadmill can be found for around $860. With an incredible display, 300lbs weight capacity, a 20″ x 56″ running surface, and soft touch keys built in to the handle bars, the Lifespan TR 1200i is designed to acheive results and do it comfortably. The TR 1200i also has one of the best warranties among those rated with a lifetime frame and motor warranty, 3 years on parts, and a year on labor.
Proform 995 Treadmill
Pros:
- 3.0 CHP motor
- 7″ Backlit display
- 30 built-in workout apps
Cons:
- Some have had complaints about customer service/assistance
- Issues with electrical components
Rounding out the top 5 with the most powerful motor, is the Proform 995. This is a solid treadmill, when its working as it should. The display is large enough to easily read the data, the powerful motor is great for serious runs, and the 30 included workout apps allow you to customize your workouts for specifically what you need.
The Verdict
While each treadmill on the list has their strong points (i.e. price, large displays, in handle controls, sound systems, workout apps, etc.). I feel that the #1 best choice is the Lifespan TR 1200i. Each treadmill’s running surface averages out to about the same size, they all have a sound system option of sorts, and they’re all a lot of treadmill for an affordable price.
However, the Lifespan TR 1200i seems more well rounded, easier to assemble of the 5, better customer support (should it be needed), and has a beautiful display. If you add that to the fact that it is a multi-award winning piece of equipment, you can see why it stands out above these other impressive machines. A person who doesn’t need to have such high speeds might consider the Sole F63, ProForm Power 995 or Weslo Cadence G5 which both retail for under $1000
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