Portable treadmills are different from traditional treadmills in that they are designed to be space-saving and compact, which can be folded up and stored away. They are also lighter than conventional treadmills and often come with transportation wheels for easy movement within the home. When choosing a portable treadmill, it’s important to consider factors like the purpose of the treadmill, the available space, the motor horsepower, wheels, stabilizers, workout programs, weight carrying capacity, track length and width, and safety features like auto-stop.
How do portable treadmills differ from other treadmills? The main characteristic of apartment-size treadmills for the home is their space-saving design, as much as the cardio benefits they provide. Due to their compact size, they can be folded up and stored away.
Table of Contents
Comparison Chart – Small Portable Treadmills
Name | Motor CHP | Incline % | Track Inches | Speed mph | Max User Wt – lbs | Preset Plans | Price | Screen | Blue Tooth |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EchelonStride | 1.75 | 0-10 | 55×20 | 12 | 300 | 8 | 1300 | 18.5″ | Yes |
Goplus 2in1 | 2.25 | No | 40×16 | 12 | 265 | Nil | 400 | LED | Yes |
Sunny-T7718 | 1.25 | No | 46×20 | 9 | 250 | 9 | 608 | LCD | Yes |
Funmily 2in1 | 2.25 | No | 41.34×15.75 | 7.5 | 220 | 12 | 330 | LCD | Yes |
Redliro 2in1 | 2.25 | No | 41×14 | 7.5 | 220 | 12 | 369 | LED | No |
BiFanuo 2in1 | 2.25 | No | 41×16 | 6.5 | 220 | Nil | 342 | LED | Yes |
FYC Folding | 1.5 | No | 41.3×14.9 | 6.5 | 220 | 12 | 280 | LCD | No |
SereneLife P | 1 | Manual | 39×14 | 6 | 265 | 12 | 320 | LCD | Yes |
Asuna8730G | 1.25 | No | 49×17.7 | 8 | 220 | Nil | 700 | LCD/LED | No |
In addition, it has transportation wheels and is a much lighter treadmill than traditional treadmills used for indoor workout sessions.
A very important factor is the space where I must keep it. I have a small apartment, and buying a regular folding treadmill will not solve my problem. After use, I want to push it under the bed so it doesn’t take up extra space. A fold-up treadmill under a bed is liked more than the one occupying so much expensive space in a small apartment in a metropolitan city. At least you start the morning workout in a better mood.
They are like under-desk treadmills in offices but can have much faster maximum speeds. However in my country home, I could have a much bigger treadmill as there are no space constraints.
Characteristics of Good Portable Treadmills
You want to start working out at home, but the various treadmill options perplex you. You’re not alone! Let’s dive into what makes an excellent portable treadmill and find that perfect space-saving, budget-friendly, and user-friendly option for your home.
The Portable Treadmill Phenomenon
Portable treadmills have taken the home fitness world by storm. But with so many options and features, where do you even begin? Don’t worry—we’re here to help! Explore the various characteristics and factors when searching for your perfect treadmill. Remember, the ideal space-saving treadmill for home use should be quiet, not very expensive, moveable, and foldable.
Purpose of The Treadmill
First, think about the purpose of your treadmill. Are you looking for something to help you lose weight, improve your running performance, or stay active? With options like walking treadmills, training programs, weight loss programs, compact models, and budget-friendly versions, you’ll want to list your specific needs before diving into your search.
Space Considerations
Space is a crucial factor when choosing a treadmill for your home. Foldable treadmills are a great option as they free up space when not in use. Keep in mind the foldability level you need and your home’s dimensions.
Folding Treadmills and Essential Features
When it comes to portable treadmills, there are several key features to consider:
Horsepower Motor
A quiet motor running on direct current (DC) is ideal for home use. Look for a motor with continuous horsepower for consistent performance and peak horsepower for maximum speed.
Wheels
Most home treadmills have wheels underneath for easy transport within your living space.
Stabilizer
Companies often suggest attaching a voltage stabilizer if your residential area experiences voltage fluctuations.
Workout Program Menu
Look for treadmills with pre-set programs, like heart rate and weight loss programs, to keep your workouts exciting and different.
Weight Carrying Capacity
Choose a treadmill that can hold at least 40 pounds more than your current weight to keep yourself safe and stable.
Length and Width
When choosing a treadmill track size, consider your height and whether you want to walk, jog, or run. Seniors and those who prefer walking may prefer smaller treadmills.
Auto-Stop
Ensure your treadmill has an auto-stop feature to reduce the risk of injury in the event of falls or drifting back.
Finding the Best Folding Treadmill for Your Space
Now that you know what to look for in a portable treadmill, create a shortlist of models that fit your needs. Consider factors like:
- A user-friendly, compact frame for light jogging or walking.
- Safety features to prevent accidents.
- A cushioned walking pad to protect your knees.
- A desk-top electric treadmill for office use.
- A mini treadmill that can be easily stored when not in use.
- An incline feature for the added challenge (if within your budget).
Most importantly, remember to read folding treadmill reviews before making your final decision! Happy treadmill hunting!
Echelon Stride
Dimensions (Folded): 69.3 x 31x 10.25″
- Weight: 156 lbs.
- Warranty: 1 Year
Now, here is a machine that has all that I need. I can run on it much faster, as the running surface is much bigger. It can bear my load and much more. It has incline controls I never expected on a treadmill that I could push under the bed. With the push of a button, I can fold it up.
It is pretty heavy for a portable machine, though. Its motor is smaller, though for me, it is OK. However, it was significantly more expensive than the previous ones I saw. It looked like a perfect portable electric treadmill machine but for the price.
Moreover, while it may be the best in the “Push under the bed or against the wall” category, it is not as sturdy as other treadmills at this price with this motor size. A higher price meant I only had to cry at a higher pitch to get it in the good old days, and Dad would buy it immediately.
Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
Dimensions: 49”x 27”x 42”
- Weight: 84 lbs
- Control: Remote & APP
- Warranty: 1 Year
The Goplus 2-in-1 Treadmill gave me all that I needed. Equipped with a safety key and remote control, I thought this might be the only machine available in different colors, like black, silver, blue, and red. It didn’t look like a treadmill for seniors. But later, I saw various others in several different colors. Despite the 2.25HP motor, it was very quiet. This looked like the best small folding treadmill.
I can also use it as a desktop treadmill for walking up to 4 km/h. It goes up to 12km/h as a slow-running treadmill with attached handles, so this is all I want. I do not think I could run at that speed for an hour. After using it, I can push it under the bed. The height is only 5 inches. There is Bluetooth, too, and it has five-layer cushion absorption for the safety of the knees.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T7718
Dimensions: 63L x 29.25W x 49H”
- Weight Capacity-250 lb
- Warranty- Frame-3yrs, Parts-90 days
This extra-wide walking/jogging treadmill features comfort, stability, folding capabilities, and a low-profile deck. A lower center of gravity assists in greater stability. Connect to the app to monitor your pace, time, distance, calories burned, pulse, and steps. An LCD monitor displays all this information. Use a USB or a headset for music and charging. Smaller in-home gyms will benefit from the elegant architecture and lightweight construction.
The treadmill can emit a lubrication alert after 188 miles for better repair. Your heart rate is monitored with an infrared heart rate sensor on the right side, and speed increments are 0.1mph. Due to the shorter board, running, especially for tall people above 6 feet, is difficult. This superfit treadmill can be folded and pushed under a bed.
Funmily 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill
Dimensions: 53.2”x 26.3”x 4.3”
- Weight: 55 lbs.
- Warranty: 1 Year
A remarkably silent treadmill with less than 50db sound, this portable walking treadmill has an excellent 7-layer cushioned design on the portable running track. It is suitable for shock absorption and is safe for the knees. Another 2-in-1 model can be used in an office as a desk electric pad treadmill and a normal-at-home treadmill.
Its folded height is fewer than 5 inches. With a raised handrail, the speed also increases. Just fold the handles and use them as a desk treadmill. The backlit display console gives details like speed, time, distance, and calories burned. There is a slot for cellphones, tablets, or remote controls, and you can listen to music by connecting the phone to the built-in speaker.
The only issue with the quality treadmill is the short running track, making it unsuitable for tall people.
Redliro Under Desk 2-in-1 Treadmill
Dimensions(Folded): 53.7’’x 24.8’’x 5.5’’
- Weight: 57 lbs
- Warranty: 1 Yr
The Redliro under-desk 2in1 treadmill is another versatile treadmill. It is less expensive because it doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth speakers or handlebars. A 2-in-1 has a walking mode of 0.5 to 4 m/h and a jogging mode of 0.5 to 7.5 mph.
With a noise level of fewer than 60 lbs, you can use it in the office without disturbing others. It has five layers of shock-absorbing cushions to save you from knee and joint injuries due to pressure while jogging.
BiFanuo 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
Dimensions: 50”x 26”x 42”
- Weight: 80 lbs.
- Warranty: 1 Yr
- Folded Height: 4″
The Bifanuo 2in1 Portable Treadmill is another regular treadmill with two modes. One mode is a walking mode that can reach speeds of up to 4km/h, and the other is a running mode with handrails that can reach speeds of up to 12km/h. It has a short running board, so taller individuals are advised not to run on it.
Due to their long strides, running will be difficult for people above 6 feet. The machine is quiet and gives you all the details, like speed, time, distance, and calories. It has a built-in Bluetooth speaker that can be attached to a phone or tablet to listen to songs or watch the news. For ease of operation, you also have a remote.
FYC Folding Treadmill
Dimensions(Folded): 51.1’’ x 25.5’’ x 7.9″
- Weight: 50 lbs
- Warranty: 2 Yr Limited
The FYC folding treadmill is another collapsible treadmill for walkers and joggers. It has a small but quiet 1.5 HP motor and a small jogging track. The maximum speed is also 6.5 mph. Unlike other machines, it can not be used when folded, so it can not be used while working on a desk.
The LED console has all standard features like speed, time, distance, and calories. It also has 12 preset workout programs, which make the workout more enjoyable. The treadmill belts have a cushioned running surface to protect the knees and other joints from jerks.
SereneLife Portable Electric Treadmill
Dimensions: 61.62 x 28.35 x 44.49
- Weight: 78.25 lbs.
- Warranty: 1 Yr
The Serenelife portable treadmill for running has a larger surface than the other treadmills in this category. With a 1.5 peak HP motor for walking and jogging, it can withstand a weight of 265 lbs.
As a result, it is ideal for obese people to walk. Besides, it can be stored easily and records speed, step count, distance, and calories on the LCD on the front. It has a remote control and a safety key to avoid accidents.
Asuna 8730G Folding Treadmill
Folded dimensions: 64” x 30.5” x 4.5”
- Weight: 95 lbs.
- Warranty: 5 Yr-Frame 180 Days-Parts
Asuna 8730G is the best folding treadmill with a warranty in this category. None of the others mentioned here has a 5-year frame or 180-day parts warranty.
The Asuna 8730G folding treadmill is from Sunny Health & Fitness, long associated with treadmills. With a 2.5-peak HP motor, it has an excellent max speed. The folded treadmill is only 4.5″ tall and can be pushed under a bed. But it is a heavy machine, and pushing and pulling it daily will be an exercise.
As with all treadmills in this category, the running track is unsuitable for runners above 6 feet tall. However, it is good for all others. The LED monitor tracks speed, distance, time, and calories burned. The machine comes in two colors, silver and light gold, and has built-in speakers for listening to music via the attached cellphone through the auxiliary port.
FAQs
Is a foldable treadmill good?
Nowadays, you get very good foldable treadmills in all price ranges.
Can you run on portable treadmills?
Because portable treadmills have smaller motors and are not designed for speed runs or long runs, we recommend walking or jogging on them. These also feature small and narrow belts that make running harder for tall or overweight runners.
Is a mini treadmill worth it?
It is worth it if you plan to walk or jog on it.
Are under-desk treadmills worth it?
Treadmills under the desk are very useful for people with long working hours who find it challenging to take time out for regular exercise.