You know what holds most people back from buying a treadmill? It’s not the cost or commitment — it’s the sheer size of these machines. Traditional treadmills can dominate an entire room, turning your living space into a mini gym whether you like it or not. Enter: the folding treadmill. It offers all the benefits of a traditional treadmill in a more compact design.
The best folding treadmill brings all the benefits of walking and running — activities shown to lower risk of chronic diseases, boost heart health, manage weight and improve mood — right to your home. Beyond convenience, these machines offer personalized workouts that fit your current fitness level. “You can walk, jog or run at your own pace, and adjusting speed and incline lets you tailor workouts to your fitness level, so treadmills are great for beginners and seasoned athletes alike,” says Michael Betts, director at TrainFitness.
Today, there are folding treadmills that suit every budget and need. While this is beneficial, it also complicates the process of choosing the best folding treadmill. That’s why we tested 15 popular models to help you find the one that’s right for you. As a personal trainer and strength and conditioning specialist, I’ve narrowed our list to find the best folding treadmill overall, plus a few more options designed to fit different needs and preferences.
Update, December 10, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for best folding treadmill remains unchanged.
Best overall folding treadmill
Jennifer Purdie
Deck dimensions: 20″ W x 60″ L | Storage: Upright with 4 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 35″ W x 50″ L x 66″ H | Max incline: 15% | Max speed: 12 mph | Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 3-year deck/parts, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.0 HP | Standout features: Quick speed dials, Bluetooth speakers, heart rate monitor, fan, USB port, tablet holder, free app access
Our top pick for best folding treadmill is the Sole F63 Treadmill, which could not be easier to fold. It has a kick-release function that makes lifting, lowering and locking the treadmill into place practically effortless. And once folded, multiple wheels help you move this 224-pound treadmill into place.
Of course, you want your folding treadmill to deliver a great workout too — and this one does. The Sole F63 features a motor that can handle up to 12 mph, and it has an impressive 15% incline. Its 60-inch-long cushioned deck feels comfortable during walks and runs. The powder coated steel frame plus internal flywheel to help keep the motor cool are both durability pluses.
Another strong point for this treadmill is its value, costing under $1,300, but you’d never know it’s a budget model. While the F63 is not super high-tech, its simple speed and incline controls are intuitive, making it very beginner-friendly. It features a 6.5-inch LCD screen with pulse, distance, time, calories, speed and program displayed, along with progress graphs.
This treadmill also boasts Bluetooth speakers, a tablet holder, a USB charging port and a generous storage tray for hydration and energy gels, which are all nice bonuses, especially for the price. Plus, you get free access to hundreds of fitness classes via the Sole+ app.
Of note: Vibration does kick in at higher speeds, and if you want in-room assembly, it’ll cost you $350, which is recommended if you don’t have help or experience.
- Easy to use
- Quick-change speed dials
- Comprehensive safety features
- Free Sole+ app
- High height when folded
- Vibrations at higher speeds
$1,300 at Amazon
More folding treadmills we like for 2025
Krissie Pannullo
Deck dimensions: 20″ W x 60″ L | Storage: Upright with 2 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 35″ W x 44″ L x 70″ H | Max incline: 12% | Max speed: 12 mph | Warranty: 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.6 CHP | Standout features: iFit compatibility, 16″ HD touchscreen, fan, shock absorption
Even serious runners need a backup plan for bad weather. The Pro-Form Carbon Pro 9000 delivers with a 12% max incline, easy-adjusting shortcut controls and a spacious 60-inch belt — everything devoted runners need to stay on schedule.
With a 3.6 continuous horsepower motor, this model surpasses Gymguyz founder and personal trainer Josh York’s recommendation for selecting treadmills with at least 2.0 to 3.0 horsepower for reliable performance. That means this bad boy can easily handle the longest, most intense workouts.
You also get a super responsive 16″ HD touchscreen, which we found very easy to navigate. An important caveat: You’ll need a subscription to iFit, a streaming fitness platform ($39/month), to get the most out of the display, but the available content and smart, auto-adjusting workouts can take your training to the next level. Just keep in mind that the screen doesn’t pivot.
When you’re done with your workout, you’ll have no problem folding the Pro-Form Carbon Pro 9000. Its transport wheels help make the fold-and-roll easy.
- Stands up to intense use
- Excellent shock absorption and stability
- Large, responsive HD touchscreen
- iFit subscription needed for full features
- Stationary screen
$1,800 at Pro-Form
Bowflex
Deck dimensions: 20″ W x 60″ L | Storage: Upright with 2 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: Not specified | Max incline: 15% | Max speed: 12 mph | Warranty: 15-year frame, 5-year mechanical, 2-year electrical, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.0 HP | Standout features: Quickdial controls, app connectivity (Peloton, JRNY, Zwift), integrated fan, tablet holder
Finding a quality treadmill under $1,000 usually means sacrificing features, but the Bowflex T6 delivers motorized incline up to 15% — a rarity at this price point. The Quickdial speed and incline controls make adjustments smooth and intuitive, which our tester particularly appreciated during her first workouts.
The T6 connects seamlessly to popular apps like Peloton, JRNY and Zwift via Bluetooth, giving you access to guided workouts without requiring an expensive subscription. Our tester found the Bluetooth pairing happened immediately with zero technical headaches. The built-in fan is another thoughtful touch that keeps you comfortable during longer sessions.
While the console lacks a touchscreen (just an LED display), that’s the main compromise at this price. The treadmill itself feels solid and runs quietly, even at higher inclines. The 60-inch belt provides plenty of room for comfortable walking and running, and the hydraulic-assist folding mechanism makes storage a breeze.
- Smooth, quiet operation
- Easy-to-use Quickdial controls
- App connectivity without required subscription
- Integrated fan
- No touchscreen display
- Basic programming without app subscription
- May feel less premium than higher-priced models
$899 at Bowflex
Laura Williams
Deck dimensions: 22″ W x 60″ L | Storage: Upright with 2 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: Not specified | Max incline: 15% | Max speed: 12 mph | Warranty: 15-year frame, 5-year mechanical, 2-year electrical, 1-year labor | Motor: Not disclosed | Standout features: 16″ HD touchscreen, Quickdial controls, one-button interval switching, app connectivity, integrated fan
For anyone who lives for HIIT workouts, the Bowflex T16 makes interval training exceptionally smooth. Beyond the standard Quickdial speed and incline controls, it features a game-changing one-button toggle that switches between your current settings and your previous ones — perfect for alternating between sprint intervals and recovery periods. Our tester gave this feature a resounding two thumbs up.
The 16″ HD touchscreen is bright and responsive, and while JRNY membership ($29/month with two months free) unlocks additional guided workouts, note that it doesn’t auto-adjust speed and incline like some competitors. That said, the manual controls are so intuitive that making changes mid-workout feels effortless.
The 22-inch-wide belt provides extra room for dynamic movements, and the treadmill folds up when you’re done — though it doesn’t save as much space as you might hope and won’t feel as rock-solid as non-folding models. For context, the T6 offers many similar features for about $1,000 less if you’re willing to sacrifice the larger screen and integrated entertainment and workout options.
- Exceptional interval controls with one-button switching
- 15% motorized incline
- 22-inch-wide belt
- 16″ HD touchscreen
- App connectivity (Peloton, JRNY, Zwift)
- JRNY doesn’t auto-adjust workouts like competitors
- Heavy and requires effort to move despite wheels
- Higher price point compared to T6 with similar features
$1,899 at Bowflex
Kristin Granero
Deck dimensions: 20″ W x 57″ L | Max incline: 12% | Max decline: 0% | Max speed: 11.2 mph | Weight capacity: 265 lbs. | Folding: Yes | Warranty: Lifetime tech support, 30 day money back guarantee | Motor: 2.0 HP | Standout features: Fully folding, comes pre-assembled, Bluetooth speakers
For apartment dwellers or anyone seriously tight on space, the Feier Star 100 is hands-down the most compact option on our list. Unlike traditional folding treadmills that just tilt upright, this one folds completely flat and stores against a wall, requiring virtually no floor space.
The convenience benefits doesn’t stop there — the treadmill arrives pre-assembled. Our tester needed help getting the heavy box upstairs, but once in place, she simply lifted the handles and console, locked them in, and started running. No confusing instructions, no assembly fees, no frustration.
Despite the compact design, performance doesn’t suffer. The 12% incline matches higher-end models, and 36 built-in programs plus Bluetooth connectivity give you plenty of workout variety. Our 5’4″ tester, who’s training for multiple half-marathons, feels confident using this as her primary training tool.
Keep in mind the 57-inch belt is shorter than most, which may feel limiting for taller runners with longer strides. The 2.0 HP motor and 265-pound weight capacity are also lower than many competitors, so make sure they’re appropriate for you before investing in this running machine.
- Folds completely flat for wall storage
- 12% incline rivals premium models
- 36 built-in programs
- Sturdy construction despite compact size
- 2.0 HP motor less powerful than most
- 57″ belt may limit taller users
- 265 lb. weight capacity lower than competitors
$1,499 at Feier
Sole
Deck dimensions: 22″ W x 60″ L | Storage: Upright with 4 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 38″ W x 42″ L x 70″ H | Max incline: 15% | Max speed: 12 mph | Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 3-year deck/parts, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.5 HP | Standout features: USB port, tablet holder, Bluetooth speakers, free app access
Tall runners who have to hunch to reach the handlebars or look down to see the console will appreciate the Sole F80’s elevated design that all but eliminates these obstacles. Plus, the running deck measures 22 by 60 inches, which is plenty big enough for taller folks with a wide stance and a long stride. The well-cushioned deck ensures a comfortable workout no matter your height.
The centerpiece of the F80 is a thoughtfully designed console featuring a 10-inch touchscreen with streaming apps, a phone/tablet mount positioned at a comfortable eye level and wireless phone charging. The Sole+ app, included free, offers hundreds of fitness classes.
Even when folded, the F80 still takes up quite a bit of space with a height of 70 inches. However, its four-wheel transport system (compared to the standard two wheels on many competitors) makes repositioning this biggie significantly easier.
- Large running deck
- App-loaded touchscreen
- Comprehensive safety features
- High weight capacity
- Large footprint
- Short handrails
- Pricey
$1,900 at Sole
Kacie O’Kelley
Deck dimensions: 20″ W x 60″ L | Storage: Upright with 4 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 31″ W x 74″ L x 10″ H | Max incline: 12% | Max speed: 12 mph | Warranty: 10-year frame, 5-year motor, 1-year comprehensive | Motor: 3.0 CHP | Standout features: Low step-up height, pivoting 22″ HD touchscreen, removable bottleholder/device tray
For seniors seeking a stable, safe workout experience, the Echelon Stride-4s-22 delivers with comfortable, solid handrails and an exceptionally stable walking and running surface. Built-in heart rate sensors help monitor exertion levels, while an emergency stop button and safety strap offer additional peace of mind.
The user-friendly design makes this model particularly accessible: Speed controls are conveniently located on the handlebars (though they lack numerical indicators), and the large, pivoting 22″ HD touchscreen is easy to read. When it comes to storage, the folding mechanism requires minimal strength, and four wheels make repositioning manageable.
We found the interface notably easy when setting up profiles and selecting programs. However, note that there are no built-in programs — you’ll need an Echelon Premier Membership ($39/month) to use the screen’s higher-tech features.
- Large pivoting screen
- Comprehensive safety features
- Automatic folding mechanism
- Limited features without a subscription
- No built-in programming
$1,700 at Amazon
Urevo
Deck dimensions: 16.5″ W x 42.4″ L | Storage: Flat with 2 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 22″ W x 50″ L x 6.1″ H | Max incline: 9% | Max speed: 7.6 mph | Warranty: 2-year extended warranty | Motor: 2.5 HP | Standout features: 2-in-1 versatility, 6 HIIT running programs, dual-screen design
For those looking for a double-duty under-desk walking pad and a foldable treadmill, the Urevo Strol 2S Pro comes out on top. With a max speed of 7.6 miles per hour and up to 9% incline, this versatile machine lets you amp up your workout whether walking during work hours or jogging after.
The dual displays show your workout stats clearly, while the included remote makes speed and incline adjustments convenient during under-desk use. Four built-in programs help you hit workout targets, and Bluetooth connectivity lets you pair with apps like Zwift and Peloton for more variety. Its shock absorption system provides comfort for extended sessions.
At nearly 75 pounds, it’s not quite as easy to move as some walking pads, though built-in wheels help. And while the pause function resets to the lowest speed instead of maintaining your previous pace, here’s the clincher: Research indicates using an under-desk treadmill may help you burn an extra 105 calories an hour compared to sitting — a huge win in our books. Plus, it’s so compact, you can easily store it under furniture. Another win!
- Connects to a variety of third-party apps
- Comprehensive safety features
- Affordable
- Must reset speed manually after each pause
- Console not accessible in walking pad mode
- Included app has basic features
$550 at Urevo
Rachel MacPherson
Deck dimensions: 20″ W x 55″ L | Storage: Upright with 2 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 41″ W x 44″ L x 59″ H | Max incline: 12% | Max speed: 10 mph | Warranty: Lifetime motor and frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor | Motor: 3.0 CHP | Standout features: Free 3-month Centr membership, 10″ touchscreen, built-in streaming apps, device holder
Starting your running journey is easy with the Centr Runr-S, which includes a free three-month digital membership featuring a comprehensive workout library, from interval training to military-style fitness tests.
Life Time personal trainer Sarah Pope emphasizes the importance of structured training. “Following a plan that matches your goals is crucial for success,” she says. The Centr platform delivers on this perfectly with guided workouts, nutrition tips and mindfulness content. (At just $12.75/month after the free trial, it’s an excellent value.)
All the built-in workouts and streaming apps, including Netflix, Disney+ and YouTube, can be accessed via the 10-inch touchscreen, which is responsive and easy to navigate. While the Wi-Fi capability is great, you’re limited to preloaded options and can’t download extra apps. Also, in testing we couldn’t get the screen mirroring feature to work.
Keep in mind that while the Centr Runr-S is foldable and portable, it’s too wide to roll through standard doorways. But all in all, the treadmill feels sturdy and made to last, so you can use it confidently well beyond the beginning of your fitness journey.
- Large variety of built-in workouts
- Free three-month app membership
- Bright and responsive 10-inch touchscreen
- Limited device mirroring capabilities
- Handrail height not ideal for taller runners
$1,599 at Amazon
Angela VanBrackle
Deck dimensions: 22″ W x 60″ L | Storage: Upright with 2 transport wheels | Folded dimensions: 37″ W x 42″ L x 71″ H | Max incline: 15% | Max speed: 12 mph | Warranty: Lifetime frame and motor, 5-year parts, 2-year service | Motor: 3.5 CHP | Standout features: Rotary controls, USB charging port, Bluetooth heart rate monitor, device holder
At $1,800 with a lifetime frame and motor warranty, the Horizon 7.4 AT delivers premium features without the premium price tag. That warranty alone sets it apart in this price range, giving you long-term peace of mind. This treadmill also ranked as our best overall treadmill in a test of 21 popular options.
The rotary dial controls on the hand grips make speed and incline adjustments smooth and intuitive, with shortcut buttons in 1-mph increments for quick changes during interval workouts. Multiple user profiles mean the whole family can track their progress separately, and the included Bluetooth chest strap connects to various fitness apps like Peloton, Zwift and Studio for expanded workout options.
Assembly is straightforward with quality instructions — a refreshing change from many competitors. The 22-inch-wide, 60-inch-long deck provides plenty of room for comfortable running.
At 318 pounds, this treadmill requires careful handling when moving, even when folded. The display is basic compared to touchscreen models, and the belt can feel slightly sticky at higher speeds, but if you’re looking for a high-quality option that doesn’t require a subscription to enjoy all the features, it’s hard to go wrong with this sturdy and reliable pick.
- Easy speed/incline adjustments
- Bluetooth heart rate monitor included
- Lifetime frame and motor warranty
- Multiple user profiles
- May be difficult to move when folded
- Basic display compared with similar treadmills
- Belt can feel sticky at higher speeds
$1,800 at Amazon
Factors to consider when purchasing a folding treadmill
A folding treadmill is a relatively big purchase that requires some forward thinking. Here are some of the most important points to consider before buying:
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Folding design and ease of use: Folding treadmills generally come in one of two formats: flat-folding models with adjustable handlebars that secure in an upright position with latches or thumbscrews, or upright-folding models that lift at the deck. The upright design most often uses hydraulic assistance, making it easier to lift the deck while also ensuring it lowers in a smooth and controlled fashion. Flat-folding models often take up less space when folded, but they may lack some of the features of upright-folding options.
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Storage dimensions vs. available storage space: Consider your storage space carefully. Flat-folding treadmills can be as slim as 5 inches high, perfect for sliding under a bed, couch or desk. Upright-folding models save floor space by halving their length (for example, 80 inches becomes 40), but need more height clearance than when in use. They may also still look big and bulky in your space.
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Transport wheels: Most folding treadmills have two wheels mounted either at the front or under the middle of the deck, so they need to be tipped slightly to move them. It’s a good idea to check the weight of the treadmill you’re interested in before buying, as a heavier treadmill may require more than one person to move it safely. Some higher-end models have four wheels and can be moved around much more easily after folding up the deck.
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Belt size: Belt size matters, especially for runners and taller users, says Betts. Most home treadmills offer 20-inch-wide belts, though some are as wide as 24 inches — nice for those with a wider gait or who tend to drift from side to side while walking or jogging. A longer belt — ideally 55 to 60 inches — provides more room to move comfortably and safely. Users over 6 feet tall may need even longer belts.
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Performance vs. portability: When choosing a folding treadmill, consider the balance between features and mobility. High-performance models deliver the full package — advanced cushioning, powerful motors and premium electronics — but often tip the scales at 300 pounds or more. Portable models sacrifice some stability and speed for a lighter, simpler design that’s easier to move and store. The upside? They’re usually gentler on your wallet.
How we chose
Finding the best folding treadmill means balancing workout performance with space-saving convenience. We put 11 models through their paces, assessing everything from running comfort and speed transitions to how smoothly they fold and store. With guidance from fitness experts, we evaluated the features that matter most: folding mechanisms, motor power, belt cushioning, display clarity and bonus elements like touchscreens and Bluetooth. Our hands-on/feet-on testing revealed which treadmills truly deliver on exercise quality and space efficiency, helping you choose a model that works for your workout goals and your home.
Other products we tested

We tested a number of other folding treadmills, while they didn’t make our list, they still may be worth checking out. (Korin Miller)
NordicTrack Commercial 2450: A premium treadmill packed with features, the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 ($2,499) boasts pluses like a 24-inch touchscreen and a 14-mile-an-hour top speed, faster than any other treadmill on the list. It doesn’t quite make the cut on account of its size and weight, making it awkward to move and store even when folded.
Horizon Fitness T101: A compact, entry-level option with hydraulic folding and 10% max incline. At this price point, it’s decent for casual walkers looking to save space, but the limited incline and basic features fall short compared to options like the Bowflex T6, which offers 15% incline and better app connectivity for a similar investment. If you’re serious about progression or varied training, you’ll likely outgrow this quickly.
XTerra WalkSlim WS300: This treadmill is easy to use and folds to a height of just 8.5 inches, making it incredibly easy to store. It offers incline controls too, which is a rare treat for this under-$1,000 price point. The bummer? The smaller running surface, stability issues at higher speeds and limited incline functionality take away from its performance.
WalkingPad Denise Austin 2.0: When folded, the Denise Austin 2.0 ($999) is more compact than the other treadmills on this list, making it ideal for tight spaces. While it comes in fashion-forward colors, such as gray and powder blue, the shock-absorbing capability doesn’t really hold up at higher speeds.
Mobvoi Home Treadmill SE: Due to the significant amount of vibration and sideways movement when running, in addition to the extremely small deck size (17 by 40 inches), the budget SE ($129) performs much better as a walking pad than as a treadmill.
FAQs
Are folding treadmills as good as regular treadmills?
You’ll get nearly all the benefits of a standard treadmill with the added bonus of space-saving design. While folding models might skip specialized features like extreme inclines or curved decks, they generally match nonfolding treadmills in most ways that matter for everyday workouts.
How much space do I need to use a folding treadmill?
Plan for more than just the machine’s roughly 7-by-3-foot footprint. You’ll need a minimum of 2 feet of clearance on each side and 6 feet behind for safe use. The good news? When folded upright, the treadmill takes up roughly half its footprint — just remember it’ll extend taller, so be sure to account for the treadmill’s folded height too.
Are folding treadmills stable enough for running?
Yes, most quality folding treadmills offer the same sturdy construction and cushioning as their nonfolding counterparts, making them perfectly stable for running. Just keep in mind that budget models might sacrifice some stability to keep prices lower.
What should I look for in a folding treadmill for small spaces?
First, ensure you have enough clearance for safe use: 2 feet on each side and 6 feet behind the deck. Then consider storage: Check the folded height against your ceiling and look for built-in wheels for easy moving. If you’re planning to store it under furniture or against a wall, consider models that fold completely flat.
Meet the experts
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Michael Betts, personal trainer and director of fitness at TrainFitness, a fitness education provider
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Sara Pope, personal trainer and group fitness instructor with Life Time Clarendon in Arlington, Va.
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Jay Silva, running coach with Teachme.to, a platform that connects students with instructors
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Josh York, personal trainer and founder and CEO of Gymguyz, which provides in-home fitness training
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.

