6 Best Folding Treadmills For Home Use in 2024

Alright, buckle up, fitness aficionados! We're about to embark on a journey to find the best folding treadmill for home use.

Because let's face it, who has the time or space for those clunky, non-folding beasts? Not us, that's for sure!

We'll be sifting through the top folding treadmills on the market, helping you avoid the dreaded treadmill graveyard in your garage.

And hey, stick around until the end for our top pick for the best overall solution. Let's roll (literally)!

The Best Folding Treadmills

To Fold or Not to Fold?

There are two kinds of treadmills available on the market: Folding and non-folding.

Folding treadmills—or fold-up, foldable, and fold-away treadmills—are the most popular choice among buyers these days.

As the name suggests, this treadmill can be folded and easily stored after each use.

There is a myth surrounding folding treadmills that needs to be broken. That myth is that folding treadmills are less stable than non-folding ones.

According to experts, this may not be the case. Stability depends largely on the frame design and the quality of the parts, not on the folding capabilities.

Furthermore, both folding and non-folding treadmills use cushions throughout the deck to improve stability and comfort. 

Is a Folding Treadmill the Right Choice for Me?

People looking to do light exercise at home or the office usually buy a folding treadmill because of its convenience. What kind of practicality can you expect from a folding treadmill?

First and foremost, it helps you save space by clearing out the workout area. Folding treadmills are typically smaller than non-folding treadmills.

Moreover, they can be folded up and wheeled away so you can use the room for another purpose, making the most of a small space. This is great for those who don't have the luxury of space or a designated workout area.

Second, they can be stored virtually anywhere and out of sight. Suppose you can only exercise in a certain room with heavy foot traffic, yet you value your privacy. In that case, folding treadmills are the perfect choice. After exercising, you can store them under the bed, in a closet, behind a cabinet, or in a corner.

Third, folding treadmills are usually cheaper than non-folding treadmills. As they are more compact, they don't need all the extras that gym-level equipment may need. However, this does not mean folding treadmills lack the necessary bells and whistles.

Fourth, folding treadmills allow you to exercise on the go. Are you traveling around the country with an RV or a camper? You don't have to sacrifice your exercise routine; you can take a folding treadmill on the trip. Ensure the unit dimensions fit into your vehicle, and you're ready.

Last but not least, folding treadmills make cleaning the room easier! You only need to fold it up, and you can easily vacuum the floor under the machine.

Undetected dust and dirt accumulation underneath the machine often cause problems with the unit's motor in non-folding treadmills. Still, you can avoid facing this issue with folding treadmills.

What Should I Look For When Shopping For Folding Treadmills?

If you have decided to go with folding treadmills, it is clear that your goal is to have light exercise (walking, jogging, light running) at home or the office.

However, you need to pay attention to a few special features that are different from those when you are reviewing non-folding treadmills for purchase. Let's see what those are.

Foldability and Portability

you need to consider several things. As you will repeatedly fold the deck up and down, find out what kind of folding mechanism the machine has. 

The unit weight is also important. It should not be too heavy that it becomes troublesome when moved, yet it should not be too light, as it can affect the unit's stability when running.

Ideally, folding treadmills should be equipped with rolling wheels to make transporting the unit easier.

Remember to check the unit's dimensions, especially when stretched out. Make sure that you have enough room in your house or office to accommodate the unit. Consider not only the length and width but also the height. Make sure it is not too close to the ceiling, mainly when folded.

Weight Capacity

The unit's weight capacity is not the same as its weight. It refers to the maximum user weight the unit can support.

This is an important treadmill specification that is often overlooked. The running belt may stall or stop working completely if the weight limit is exceeded.

This causes stress and duress to the motor, increasing the risk of damage to the expensive parts.

Frame and Deck

As previously mentioned, the frame is an important part of a treadmill that contributes to its stability. A steel frame is typically a standard for folding treadmills.

A good cushioning system on the deck is also preferable, as it protects your joints during exercise. Also essential is the size of the running surface and the display available on the unit.

Motor, Speed, and Incline

These are paramount features of any treadmill, folding or otherwise. Typically, folding treadmills may have a smaller drive system, lower speed limit, and incline level than the non-folding ones.

However, your goal is light exercise, so this shouldn't be a problem.

Warranty

Warranty is something you must not overlook when making any kind of purchase. However, in the case of buying a folding treadmill, this need is even more pronounced.

As you constantly fold up and move the unit, there is a greater risk of damage and wear and tear. A good manufacturer will provide its users with a good warranty, preventing unit breakdown that comes too soon.

1. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill

A company based in Los Angeles, California, Sunny Health & Fitness has been known as the premier distributor of high-quality fitness products for over a decade. 

Targeted for at-home fitness enthusiasts, the SF-T4400 Treadmill is one of the very best folding treadmills out there. It has been reviewed as excellent by customers and critics alike as it is easy to use, fun, and comfortable.

Foldability and Portability

The SF-T4400 is very, very light, at only 103 lbs. When fully assembled, it measures 62L x 27W x 58H. When folded, the dimensions become merely 34.25L x 26.25W x 58H. 

Sunny Health & Fitness uses an easy folding mechanism and soft drop system to help users fold and unfold the treadmill safely. This unit is also equipped with built-in wheels to facilitate easy transport.

Weight Capacity

The maximum user weight suggested is 220 lbs, a standard among the folding treadmills category.

Frame and Deck

With a metal frame, the SF-T4400 feels stable when used, whether it is for walking, jogging, or running. The tread track is measured at 48 L x 15.75W, which is sufficient for a light workout even for those exceeding 6 feet in height.

 The shock absorption deck causes less impact on the legs and joints. The LCD display measures time, distance, calories burned, and pulse.

It has a safety lock and power saving function, as well as convenient handrail control keys. Users can start, stop, and adjust the speed with these keys. This particular unit also can measure the user's BMI (Body Mass Index).

Motor, Speed, and Incline

The drive system is of a 2.2 Peak HP Motor, a formidable machine for such a light treadmill.

The speed ranges from 0.5 to 9 MPH, enough to accommodate walking, jogging, and light running. There are 3 incline levels: 0%, 2%, and 4.37%. Users must adjust the system manually to change between levels.

Warranty

Sunny Health & Fitness gives out a generous 3-year structural frame warranty, as well as 90-day parts and components warranty.

2. Exerpeutic TF1000 Ultra High Capacity Walk to Fitness Electric Treadmill

Exerpeutic is one of the brands manufactured by Paradigm Health & Wellness, a leading supplier to the fitness industry based in Southern California, United States.

Also known as Exerpeutic 400XL, the TF1000 has the highest user weight capacity in the folding treadmill category.

Foldability and Portability

Weighing 120 lbs, the TF1000 can be considered one of the lightest treadmills on the market. Its full dimensions are 51.2 x 32 x 63.

If your ceiling is a bit low, this is the machine to have, as the walking deck is only 8 to 10 inches from the floor. The TF1000 uses pistons to assist users in folding and unfolding the deck. Integrated transport wheels are also available in this unit.

Weight Capacity

As previously mentioned, the TF1000 has an extraordinary maximum weight limit at 400 pounds. This capacity is even comparable to gym-level non-folding treadmills.

Frame and deck (frame, belt size, display, etc)

The frame is heavy-duty reinforced metal. It is equipped with wide side rails as a foot platform, which also helps increase unit stability.

The running track measures 40L x 20W. It might feel relatively short compared to other treadmills in this category, but remember, the TF1000's motto is to "Walk to Fitness," not run.

The LCD display window lets users view the time elapsed, distance traveled, calories burned, and pulse. This unit also has extra-long safety handles, over twice the length of a regular treadmill handle.

It is perfect for those looking for more support in terms of balance. From the handle, users can access the heart pulse pads and speed control buttons.

Motor, Speed, and Incline

This treadmill has a 1.5 HP High Torque motor. It is quiet so as not to be interrupted by sounds from TV or music players. The speed can be adjusted in increments of 0.1 MPH up to 4 MPH.

The 2-position incline can be adjusted manually.

Warranty

The TF1000 has a 5-year motor and frame warranty and a 90-day parts and labor warranty.

3. IUBU Fitness F1 Folding Treadmill

Marketed as a folding treadmill with a touch screen, app control, and motorized machine for home use, the IUBU Fitness Folding Treadmill is a cardio machine that should definitely be on your radar.

Foldability and Portability

IUBU claims the F1 Folding Treadmill weighs only 88 lbs or 40 kg. No doubt, this is among the lightest of the lightest cardio machines available.

The dimensions are 57L x 28W x 49H when expanded and 16L x 28W x 56H when folded. This unit is also unique; users can simply push a button to fold and unfold the deck.

It also has wheels in the form of two pulleys at the bottom of the treadmill to facilitate transport. This treadmill can easily be stored under the bed.

Weight Capacity

The F1 can hold up to 265 lbs user weight, slightly more than the average folding treadmills.

Frame and Deck

The running surface is 57L x 28W x 49H. The belt is designed with high-strength, high-tensile, and anti-static technology.

The deck is equipped with a rubber r shock absorber cushion. The HD mirror LED liquid crystal display tracks the user's speed, time elapsed, distance walked, calories burned, and pulse.

This unit also has Bluetooth connectivity and is compatible with Android and iOS. Users can get a recommendation from a personal trainer as a health report.

Motor, Speed, and Incline

The drive system used is a 0.65 – 1.75 HP Peak motor. Users can adjust the speed from 1 to 6.2 MPH. The IUBU F1 does not have an automatic incline function but can be manually inclined for up to four levels.

Warranty

IUBU provides a one month free exchange. For further issues, users are to contact the company's customer service.

4. XTERRA TR150 Folding Treadmill

XTERRA is a well-known brand that specifically designs treadmills for the home environment. The TR150 offers numerous features to enhance the user's performance and comfort.

Foldability and Portability

The XTERRA TR150 Folding treadmill weighs 108 lbs assembled, which means it only takes one person to set it up or move it around.

Its expanded dimensions are 63.4L x 28.75W x 51.4H, while its folded dimensions are 28.5L x 28.75W x 61H. It is equipped with wheels and an Easy Release lock pin to help fold the deck up quickly and conveniently.

Weight Capacity

This unit can support up to 250 lbs user weight, slightly above the 200 lbs standard for folding treadmills.

Frame and Deck

The heavy gauge steel frame makes the TR150 an incredibly durable machine. The walking and running surface is quite large, measuring 16" x 50".

Users will feel more comfortable running on this machine thanks to the XTRASoft Cushioned Deck technology. The large LCD screen will update users on various stats, including speed, incline, time, distance, calories, and pulse.

There are also quick touch buttons to adjust the speed instantly. The side handlebars are mounted with hand grip pulse sensors to measure your heart rate during exercise.

The panel is also integrated with a book rack and accessory holder.

Motor, Speed, and Incline

This treadmill is driven by a smooth and quiet 2.25 HP motor. The top speed reaches 10 MPH, so you can pace yourself into a run with this cardio machine. You can also choose from 3 manual incline settings.

Warranty

The TR150 offers an amazing warranty deal. The frame has a lifetime warranty, which is a major plus point for a folding treadmill. Users will also get a one-year warranty on the motor and 90 days on other parts and labor.

5. Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill

GoPlus is a fitness company that was started in 2008 in California. It produces various products, including treadmills, elliptical machines, and stationary bikes.

Most of the treadmills available from GoPlus are entry-level models. This model is one of the best-selling products in their treadmill line.

Foldability and Portability

The assembled weight of this one is 69 lbs. So yeah, It is light, probably the lightest folding treadmill outhere.

When assembled, this treadmill measured at 52.5"D x 29"W x 44.5"H. When folded, it shrinks to 55”Dx 29”Wx 5”H.

This model is equipped with four casters or wheels for easy transport. The easy folding mechanism and soft drop system will help you navigate the folding and unfolding of the deck safely.

Weight Capacity

The GoPlus 2.25HP Electric Folding Treadmill can support up to 265 lbs of user weight, which is more than the 200 lb weight limit on the average folding treadmill.

Frame and deck (frame, belt size, display, etc)

The frame is made of high-quality steel, which gives this model a good chance of surviving the wear and tear that comes with time.

The runway size is 39.3" x16", a good size for most users. The frame has a built-in accessory holder. Unfortunately, there is no option to measure your heart rate, so you might want to consider using an accurate heart rate monitor.

You won't find a fancy screen with lot's of workout info, but you're more than welcome to use the official app for this treadmill.

The app will save your workout data, you can choose from various workout plans and even exercise with people worldwide.

The panel has quick buttons to change speed, so that's a convenient option.

Motor, Speed, and Incline

The 2.25 HP impulse motor is very quiet and perfect for interval, speed, or endurance training. The speed can be adjusted from 0.5 to 7.5 MPH.

No incline though.

Warranty

The company doesn't specify the warranty for this product. Still, some sources claimed that the GoPlus 2.25HP Electric Folding Treadmill has a 3-month warranty.

Yet another one by GoPlus is the 1100W Folding Electric Treadmill. This model is an entry-level treadmill with many other functions that make working out at home feel similar to exercising at the gym.

Foldability and Portability

This unit can be easily moved anywhere, anytime, at only 59 lbs. The overall assembly size is 49.6L x 24W x 46.5H, and when folded, it becomes 22.3L x 24W x 14H. These measurements make the 1100W one of the most compact folding treadmills. It features the Easy-Fold Design and wheels for easy transport and storage.

Weight Capacity

The GoPlus 1100W Folding Electric Treadmill can withstand up to 220 lbs of user weight, which is quite standard for a folding treadmill.

Frame and Deck

The heavy-duty, high-quality steel frame is guaranteed to stand the test of time. The 14" x 39" running belt is enough to walk and jog comfortably. However, it might feel a bit constricting for those over 6 feet tall. The multi-function LED display shows progress such as pulse, speed, distance, time, and calories. This model also has handrails with quick push buttons to increase or decrease speed, start and stop buttons, and heart rate sensors.

Motor, Speed, and Incline

This cardio machine is powered by an 1100W motor, hence its name. Users can adjust the speed from 0.5 to 6.5 MPH. This speed is enough to help you walk and jog, though perhaps not for those who wish to do intense running. There is no incline adjustment available in this unit, electric or manual.

Warranty

GoPlus offers a 100% risk-free satisfaction guarantee for this product. However, it does not seem like they provide any warranty, as they encourage customers to call the customer service department should there be issues or defects.

To Sum Up

So, if you're looking for a convenient and practical option for light exercise, a folding treadmill might be the perfect fit for you. Just remember to consider factors such as foldability, weight capacity, frame and deck, and motor, speed, and incline.

Our choice for the best folding treadmill would have to be the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400.