A treadmill is a much cheaper equipment than you might think. Yes, an under 500 dollars, you can get a good treadmill for your regular walking and light jogging sessions.
In this article, we’ve picked and reviewed the top 10 best treadmills under $500, along with our top three choices and buying guide so that you can choose the best one according to your needs.
We need to clarify that a $500 treadmill can be a perfect machine for walking, not jogging or running.
However, smaller people can do a light jog on those budget models.
If you’re planning to do a power jog, look for at least an $800 treadmill, whereas runners need a more powerful treadmill to meet their goals.
So, if you’re looking for a walking or light jogging treadmill, read the article to get the best budget treadmill that fits your needs very well.
Why You Can Trust Us
We independently researched, tested, and reviewed hundreds of treadmills to help you make better buying decisions and get more from your purchase. (Read our editorial mission statement)
What are the Best Treadmills Under $500?
Here’re our top picks for the best treadmill under $500 in the current market.
- Best Overall: Weslo Cadence G 5.9i
- Best Compact: XTerra Fitness TR150
- Best Incline: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7515
- Best Feature: ProForm Performance 300i
- Best Under-Desk: UREVO 2 in 1
- Best for Walking: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400
- Best Heavy-Duty: Exerpeutic TF900
- Best Versatile: Ksports LJJ2001
- Best for Seniors: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7857
- Best Manual Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407M
1. Weslo Cadence G 5.9i
Overall Best Treadmill Under $500 with 10 mph
Specs
- Editors’ Rating: 4.0/5
- Console: LCD Screen
- Tread Belt: 16″ x 50″
- Motor: 2.25 HP
- Speed: 0.5–10 mph
- Incline: 2 Position Manual
- Cushion: Comfort cell cushioning
- Folding: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 275 Pounds
- Warranty: 1-year motor and 90-day parts and labor
Walking: 8.0 | Jogging: 5.0 | Running: 2.5 | Home Use: 8.0 | Incline: 6.0 | Heavy Duty/Heavy People: 7.0 | Bad Knees/Cushioning: 7.0 | Senior/Elderly: 6.5 | Apartment/Small Space: 9.5 | Warranty: 6.0 | Brand: 8.0
Weslo Cadence G 5.9i is one of the best treadmills under $500 with a 10 mph speed. Along with speed, its well-combination of features earned the top spot in the list.
This folding treadmill gives a 30-day iFit trial membership which is excellent for experiencing personal training in the comfort of your home.
The G 5.9i treadmill is equipped with a 16″ x 50″ trade belt, which creates enough space for walks, while its integrated Comfort cell cushioning helps minimize impact and maintain your joints’ health in the long term.
Pros
- 30-day free iFit membership
- 16″ x 50″ walking surface
- 2.25 HP drive system motor
- Comfort cell cushioning
- In-home personal training with iFit
Cons
- Manual incline (no auto adjust)
- Credit Card required for iFit activation
Summary
If you’re looking for a walking treadmill under $500 with a good combination of features, then the Weslo G 5.9i is our top pick for you.
2. Xterra Fitness TR150
Best Compact Treadmill Under $500
Specs
- Editors’ Rating: 4.0/5
- Console: 5″ LCD Screen
- Tread Belt: 16″ x 50″
- Motor: 2.25 HP
- Speed: 0.5–10 mph
- Incline: 3 Position Manual
- Cushion: XTRA Soft Cushioned Deck
- Folding: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 250 Pounds
- Warranty: Lifetime frame, 1-year motor, and 90-day deck and labor
Walking: 8.0 | Jogging: 5.0 | Running: 2.5 | Home Use: 8.0 | Incline: 6.5 | Heavy Duty/Heavy People: 6.5 | Bad Knees/Cushioning: 7.0 | Senior/Elderly: 6.5 | Apartment/Small Space: 9.5 | Warranty: 8.5 | Brand: 8.5
Xterra Fitness is one of the most popular brands known for their affordable treadmills. The TR150 is the best foldable treadmill under $500, and its compact design making ideal for small spaces or apartment use.
This compact treadmill features a 5″ LCD console to track your workout feedback, including time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse. It also offers 12 preset programs to choose from with zero membership cost.
The TR150 treadmill builds with a 2.25 HP motor, 10 mph speed, and 16″ x 50″ trade belt with XTRASoft cushioning technology — assuring you a safe and comfortable walk. (Read full review)
Pros
- Compact folding design
- 5″ LCD screen
- 12 preset workout programs
- No membership required
- XTRASoft cushioning technology
Cons
- No auto incline
- Weight capacity is slightly low
Summary
If you want a walking treadmill on a tight budget and basic in-built programs are sufficient for you, then the Xterra TR150 can be the best treadmill.
3. Sunny SF-T7515
Best Treadmill Under $500 with Incline
Specs
- Editors’ Rating: 3.9/5
- Console: Backlit Digital LCD
- Tread Belt: 16.5″ x 49.5″
- Motor: 2.2 HP
- Speed: 1.0-8 mph
- Incline: 0-12% Auto
- Cushion: Shock Absorption Deck
- Folding: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 240 Pounds
- Warranty: 3 years frame and 180 days parts and components
Walking: 8.0 | Jogging: 5.0 | Running: 2.5 | Home Use: 8.0 | Incline: 8.0 | Heavy Duty/Heavy People: 6.0 | Bad Knees/Cushioning: 6.5 | Senior/Elderly: 7.0 | Apartment/Small Space: 9.5 | Warranty: 7.0 | Brand: 8.5
Looking for a budget incline treadmill? Check out the Sunny SF-T7515 treadmill that offers 12% auto incline, which is rare in this price category.
This treadmill gives an LCD screen where you can track your workout progress, while its 12 pre-set programs help you train in various ways. It also has an MP3 port, speakers, and Bluetooth capability.
The Sunny SF-T7515 build with a 2.2 HP motor and 8 mph speed, which is sufficient for your regular walking sessions.
Pros
- 0-12% motorized incline
- Built-in speakers
- Bluetooth capability
- 12 pre-set programs
- Quick speed and incline buttons
Cons
- Weight capacity is slightly low
- Delay customer service
Summary
If you want a walking treadmill under $500 with high auto incline and several entertainment options, you might want to go with the Sunny SF-T7515 treadmill.
4. ProForm Performance 300i
Best Feature Treadmill Under $500 for 300 lbs
Specs
- Editors’ Rating: 3.9/5
- Console: Three LED windows
- Tread Belt: 16″ x 50″
- Motor: 2 CHP
- Speed: 0.5–10 mph
- Incline: 0–10% Auto
- Cushion: ProShox Cushioning
- Folding: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 300 Pounds
- Warranty: 5 years frame and 90 days of parts and labor
Walking: 8.0 | Jogging: 5.0 | Running: 2.5 | Home Use: 8.0 | Incline: 7.5 | Heavy Duty/Heavy People: 8.0 | Bad Knees/Cushioning: 7.0 | Senior/Elderly: 6.5 | Apartment/Small Space: 9.5 | Warranty: 7.5 | Brand: 8.5
The ProForm Performance 300i is one of the best treadmills under $500 with 300 lbs weight capacity and many exciting features.
Like the Weslo G 5.9i (the first one), this treadmill offers a 30-day iFit trial membership where you can access global and studio workouts led by professional trainers.
This machine builds with a 2.0 CHP motor that runs up to 10 mph with a 16″ x 50″ ProShox cushioning belt — giving you a comfortable and safe walking experience.
The ProForm 300i has pulse sensors on the handles, an auxiliary audio port, dual 2″ speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity to make your workout more exciting and fun.
Pros
- 0–10% auto incline controls
- 300 pounds weight capacity
- EKG grip heart rate monitor
- Dual 2″ speakers
- ProShox cushioning technology
Cons
- Slightly low motor horsepower
- Credit Card required for iFit activation
Summary
If you’re looking for a feature-loaded treadmill with 300 lb weight capacity in a budget range, the ProForm 300i might be your favorite.
5. UREVO 2 in 1 Treadmill
Best Under Desk Treadmill Under $500
Specs
- Editors’ Rating: 3.8/5
- Console: LED Console
- Tread Belt: 16.9″ x 42.5″
- Motor: 2.5 HP
- Speed: 0.6-7.6 mph
- Incline: None
- Cushion: Shock Absorption
- Folding: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 265 Pounds
- Warranty: One year
Walking: 8.0 | Jogging: 4.0 | Running: 2.5 | Home Use: 8.0 | Heavy Duty/Heavy People: 7.0 | Bad Knees/Cushioning: 6.5 | Senior/Elderly: 6.0 | Apartment/Small Space: 9.8 | Warranty: 6.5 | Brand: 8.0
Looking for an under-desk treadmill? Check out the Urevo 2-in-1 folding machine, our top pick under-desk treadmill for under 500 dollars.
This portable treadmill builds with a 16.9″ x 42.5″ belt with integrated shock absorption technology to keep your joints healthy.
It has a max weight capacity of 265 pounds. If your body weight is more than that, you should go for a higher-capacity desk treadmill.
The UREVO under-desk treadmill comes with a 2.5 HP quiet motor with a speed of 7.6 mph, which can give you a smooth walking session without disturbing the environment. (Read full review)
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight and portable
- Powerful and quiet motor
- Shock absorption belt
- LED console and phone holder
Cons
- Basic design
- TV remote may connect to the machine
Summary
If you’re looking for an under-desk treadmill under $500 and are OK with its 265 pounds capacity, then the Urevo 2-in-1 treadmill can be the best option.
6. Sunny SF-T4400
Best Walking Treadmill Under $500
Specs
- Editors’ Rating: 3.6/5
- Console: LCD Screen
- Tread Belt: 15.5″ x 49″
- Motor: 2.2 HP
- Speed: 0.5–9 mph
- Incline: 3 Levels Manual
- Cushion: Shock Absorption Deck
- Folding: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 220 Pounds
- Warranty: 3-year structural frame, 180 days other parts and components
Walking: 8.0 | Jogging: 5.0 | Running: 2.5 | Home Use: 8.0 | Incline: 6.5 | Heavy Duty/Heavy People: 6.0 | Bad Knees/Cushioning: 7.0 | Senior/Elderly: 6.5 | Apartment/Small Space: 9.5 | Warranty: 7.0 | Brand: 8.5
Sunny Health & Fitness is known for their affordable treadmills, and this SF-T4400 is a great example. It has an LCD monitor to track progress along with nine built-in programs.
The Sunny SF-T4400 treadmill builds with a 2.2 HP motor with a max speed of 9 mph, and its 15.5″ x 49″ shock absorption deck can perfectly meet your everyday walking needs.
This treadmill integrates speed-adjustable buttons and pulse sensors on the handles so you can adjust your machine speed and monitor your heart rate efficiently.
It has an easy folding mechanism and soft drop system to help you unfold your treadmill safely and hands-free, and its transportation wheels assist you to move the machine, making it the best home treadmill under 500.
Pros
- Affordable
- Digital LCD monitor
- Quick keys on the handles
- Soft Drop system
- Compact and folding design
Cons
- Low weight capacity
- No automatic incline
Summary
If you want a basic walking treadmill under 500 dollars and are OK with 220 pounds user weight capacity, then you can go for the Sunny SF-T4400 treadmill.
7. Exerpeutic TF900
Best Heavy Duty Treadmill Under $500
Specs
- Editors’ Rating: 3.7/5
- Console: LCD Screen
- Tread Belt: 16″ x 36″
- Motor: 1.5 HP
- Speed: 0.4-4 mph
- Incline: None
- Cushion: Shock Absorption Deck
- Folding: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 350 Pounds
- Warranty: 5 years motor and 1-year frame
Walking: 8.0 | Jogging: 4.0 | Running: 2.5 | Home Use: 8.0 | Heavy Duty/Heavy People: 8.5 | Bad Knees/Cushioning: 7.0 | Senior/Elderly: 9.0 | Apartment/Small Space: 9.5 | Warranty: 7.5 | Brand: 8.0
The Exerpeutic TF900 is one of the best treadmills under $500 for heavy users that can support up to 350 pounds of user weight.
The TF900 treadmill features an LCD console to monitor your workout time, distance, calories burned, and speed. It builds with a 1.5 HP high torque motor with a speed of 4 mph, which can be sufficient for your regular walking session.
The treadmill provides 18″ large safety handles, which is great for seniors or if you lose balance during walking. Its quick speed adjustment buttons on the handles make it easy to change your workout mode.
Pros
- 350 pounds weight capacity
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy to assemble
- Long safety handlebars
- LCD monitor to track progress
Cons
- Shorter deck size
- Less powerful motor
- No incline
Summary
If you want a heavy-duty walking treadmill at an affordable price with a weight capacity of 350 pounds, the Exerpeutic TF900 is the best in this price category.
8. Ksports LJJ2001
Best Versatile Treadmill Under $500
Specs
- Editors’ Rating: 3.8/5
- Console: LCD Console
- Tread Belt: 16″ x 43″
- Motor: 2.25 HP
- Speed: 0.6-6.2 mph
- Incline: 3 levels manual
- Cushion: Shock Absorption
- Folding: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 265 Pounds
- Warranty: 12 Months
Walking: 8.0 | Jogging: 4.5 | Running: 2.5 | Home Use: 8.0 | Versatility: 9.5 | Heavy Duty/Heavy People: 7.0 | Bad Knees/Cushioning: 7.0 | Senior/Elderly: 7.5 | Apartment/Small Space: 9.0 | Warranty: 6.0 | Brand: 7.5
Ksports treadmill is known for their versatility. Along with your regular walking needs, the Ksports LJJ2001 treadmill gives an AB mat and dumbbells so you can train your total body with a single piece of investment.
This LJJ2001 treadmill is packed with a 2.25 HP motor and 6.2 mph speed, which can run smoothly throughout your walking sessions. And a 16″ x 43″ deck with cushioning system helps keep your joints healthy.
Its easy-to-read LCD console helps monitor your workout progress quickly. And its USB and MP3 socket and Bluetooth capability take care of your entertainment.
Pros
- Versatile
- USB, MP3, and Bluetooth functions
- Decent motor
- Cushioning technology
- AB mat and dumbbells included
Cons
- Shorter deck size
- No soft-drop folding
- Slightly less speed
Summary
If you want a versatile treadmill under $500 with a full body training option besides walking, then the Ksports LJJ2001 treadmill might be for you.
9. Sunny SF-T7857
Best Treadmill Under $500 for Seniors
Specs
- Editors’ Rating: 3.8/5
- Console: Three LED windows
- Tread Belt: 19.5″ x 44″
- Motor: 2.5 HP
- Speed: 0.6–5 mph
- Incline: None
- Cushion: Shock Absorption Deck
- Folding: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 295 Pounds
- Warranty: 3 years structural frame and 180 days on other parts and components
Walking: 8.0 | Jogging: 5.0 | Running: 2.5 | Home Use: 8.0 | Heavy Duty/Heavy People: 8.0 | Bad Knees/Cushioning: 7.0 | Senior/Elderly: 9.8 | Apartment/Small Space: 9.5 | Warranty: 7.0 | Brand: 8.5
Looking for a budget treadmill for seniors or recovery? Check out the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7857 treadmill that provides multi-grip non-slip handrails to ensure a secure grip and balance during exercise.
This treadmill features several LCD consoles to track progress, and its low running deck helps you easily mount and dismount your treadmill. At the same time, the built-in shock absorption technology offers additional comfort and support to your joints and knees.
The SF-T7857 treadmill builds with a 2.5 HP motor and a 19.5″ wider deck that can carry up to 295 pounds of user weight, making it an ideal recovery walking treadmill.
Pros
- Multi-grip non-slip handrails
- 2.5 HP pick motor
- 19.5″ wider deck
- Low height running deck
- 295 pounds max weight capacity
Cons
- Deck length is slightly short
- No incline
- Poor customer service
Summary
If you’re looking for a recovery walking treadmill under $500 (for seniors), then the Sunny SF-T7857 might be your top choice.
10. Sunny SF-T1407M
Best Manual Treadmill Under $500
Specs
- Editors’ Rating: 3.6/5
- Console: LCD Monitor
- Tread Belt: 13″ x 42″
- Motor: None
- Speed: Manual
- Incline: Slightly Fixed Incline
- Folding: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 220 Pounds
- Warranty: 3 years structural frame and 180 days on other parts and components
Walking: 8.0 | Jogging: 5.5 | Running: 2.5 | Home Use: 8.0 | Incline: 6.5 | Heavy Duty/Heavy People: 6.5 | Bad Knees/Cushioning: 4.5 | Senior/Elderly: 6.0 | Apartment/Small Space: 9.5 | Warranty: 7.0 | Brand: 8.5
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T1407M is the best budget treadmill under $500. This manual treadmill has a slightly inclined 42″ x 13″ trade belt that can withstand your regular walk and light jogs.
This compact, lightweight treadmill provides an LCD monitor that shows your training progress, such as time, speed, distance, calories burned, and scan.
The Sunny SF-T1407M treadmill includes soft foam on its handles, and its non-slip running surface assures you a safe and secure workout for the long run.
Pros
- Non-electric
- LCD tracking monitor
- Compact and lightweight
- Dual flywheels for resistance
- Soft foam hand grips
- Burns more calories in less time
Cons
- Low weight capacity
- Shorter deck size
- Incline isn’t adjustable
Summary
If you want a manual walking treadmill at a super affordable price, then the Sunny SF-T1407M can be for you.
Things to Consider When Buying a $500 Treadmill
You should check out the following things when choosing a $500 treadmill.
Technology
Most of the 500 dollars treadmills come with a backlit LCD console to track essential workout data. Many models offer either in-built programs or memberships or both.
Built-in programs are relatively less exciting than membership programs, where you connect your phone or tablet to train with interactive videos.
However, you need to pay for the membership subscription. Choose the console type according to your interest.
Furthermore, many brands offer Bluetooth connectivity and built-in speakers, which are great for enhancing your workout experience.
Depending on your chosen treadmill, you can also find integrated pulse sensors on the handles, which is a good feature to keep yourself on track.
Performance
The main thing you need to look out for in performance is the motor.
We recommend getting a treadmill with a 2.0 HP motor with a speed of 8 mph to walk and light jog comfortably. However, you may observe that some of our listed treadmills have less powerful motors, which are reasonable at their range.
You can consider a treadmill with a 1.5 HP motor with a speed of 4 mph, especially when you are planning to do casual walks.
Honestly, you can’t do a power jog or run on a $500 treadmill.
Give a special look at the quieter/low noise motor, which helps to keep the environment silent while working out.
Another feature is the treadmill incline. It basically increases the treadmill deck’s elevation and makes the workout more challenging, resulting in more calorie burn than flat surface running.
You can see either 2-3 levels of manual incline or 10%-15% motorized incline control.
The manual incline is where you need to step off the treadmill and adjust its angle manually. On the other hand, a motorized incline allows you to adjust the incline with integrated buttons on the machine, which most people prefer.
In a 500 dollars treadmill, try to get at least three levels of manual or 12% motorized incline.
Comfort
A 16″ width x 50″ length deck is recommended for walking, the size most $500 treadmills typically have.
However, if you’re a smaller user or want to do casual walks, you can consider a slightly shorter belt.
Another crucial thing to check out is cushioning technology. Most budget brands provide either shock absorption or their unique cushioning technology. The second one is better.
Be sure to get a treadmill with good cushioning technology, which softens your stride impact and keeps your joints healthy in the long run.
Although not all the budget models (mentioned above) offer incredible cushioning systems but have decent shock absorption technology that you can rely on.
Most treadmills under $500 have a weight capacity between 220 to 350 pounds.
We recommend getting a walking treadmill with 30 pounds higher weight capacity than your current body weight. This thumb rule will help you get a more stable and smooth session and increase your machine’s durability in the long term.
For example, if your body weight is 220 pounds, getting a treadmill with 250 pounds capacity is wiser. Heavy users may need a higher-capacity treadmill.
Convenience
Almost all budget treadmills come in a folding and compact design, making them very convenient for apartments or small spaces.
You can also check if the treadmill has an easy lift and soft drop technology which help you to quickly and safely fold and unfold the treadmill. At the same time, the transportation wheels (if your machine has) assist you in moving the machine effortlessly.
Most $300-$500 treadmills offer a shorter warranty, like one to five years. However, some brands like XTerra Fitness (number 2 in the list) may also provide a lifetime warranty on the frame.
Remember, the more, the better.
Final Word
A budget treadmill is a piece of excellent equipment to start your fitness journey without spending much and can perfectly suit your regular walking and light jogging sessions.
We’d highly recommend going through our top ten list above to choose the best one according to your needs.
So… There we have it: Best treadmills under 500 dollars.
If you have any questions regarding $500 treadmills, feel free to ask in the comment section below. We’d be glad to help you out.
FAQs
What is the best treadmill under $500?
Our experts recommend the Weslo Cadence G 5.9i is the overall best treadmill under $500.
However, we recommend checking out our top pick treadmill list above to find your perfect match.
Are cheap treadmills worth it?
If you can’t go outdoors for any reason or are not a fan of stepping outside for walking or running, and if you’ve limited budget and space, a $500 treadmill can be an ideal piece of equipment for your indoor workout.
How much is a decent treadmill?
A decent range for treadmills is $1000 to $1500.
If we break it down, a $300-$600 treadmill is suitable for walking, $700-$1000 for jogging, and $1000-$1500 for running. However, you may need to increase your budget ($2000 or more) if you are planning to do hardcore running.
How long does a cheap treadmill last?
According to manufacturers, the average life of a cheap treadmill is about five years. However, properly taking care of it and oiling the belt at regular intervals can increase its durability.