Regular exercise is key to leading a happy and healthy life, and having your own home gym equipment like a treadmill can be a great way to easily keep fit. What’s more, you don’t necessarily have to pay a lot of money for the privilege, and there are many affordable treadmills out there. This guide will take a look at the best treadmill under 600.
We reviewed 36 of the best treadmills on the market, focusing on affordable and effective models and finding that the MaxKare Folding Treadmill is the best option for most people. Offering a wide and comfortable tread belt, an easy-to-read LCD display, simple one-touch operations and easy fold-away design for simple storage, this treadmill gives you all you need at a great price. We also looked at four more recommended treadmills under 600 to suit users with different needs and budgets.
Our review team spent dozens of hours going through the pros and cons of each model, considering a wide range of factors in order to identify the very best treadmills on the market. We looked at the type of treadmill, choosing a mixture of motorized and manual models to suit all users, as well as considering what workout programs and speed settings were available in order to offer a variety of exercise options for the user. We looked at additional factors like weight, dimensions, and warranty too, and you can find the results of our research in the table below, followed by detailed reviews of each model and a buying guide.
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Editor’s Choice: MaxKare Folding Treadmill"This model comes fitted with a large LCD display and a whopping total of 15 pre-set programs, offering a huge amount of versatility for all your workout needs."
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Best Value: ProGear 190"Suitable for users of up to 230 lbs in weight, this manual treadmill features two levels of inclines and is made from strong and sturdy materials, offering both durability and ease of use."
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Budget Pick: Murtisol 1100W Folding Treadmill"This model is ideal for starters, is a foldable and can be reduced down to a super slim and easy to store size, perfect for those living in apartments or small homes."
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Best Handles: Exerpeutic TF1000"This treadmill can quickly and easily be folded up for your convenience and comes with extra long 18 inch safety handles too."
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Best Bluetooth Connection: Merax Treadmill"This model is fully motorized and offers speeds of up to 8mph, but that’s not all. This treadmill features Bluetooth functionality which is usually only to be seen by the more expensive products."
Top 5 Treadmills Under $600 Review 2021
MaxKare Folding Treadmill – Editor’s Choice
- Type: motorized
- Weight capacity: 220 lbs.
- Workout programs: 15
- Max. speed: 8.5MPH
- Incline: 3
- Dimensions: 53.39 x 26.18 x 45.95 inches
- Weight: 91 lbs.
More features: multi-layer running belt
At the top of our list of the best treadmills under 600 is the MaxKare Folding Treadmill. Coming from a trusted and respected exercise equipment brand, this treadmill is available at a phenomenal price, especially when you start to look through its long list of features and advantages. For example, it comes fitted with a large LCD display and a whopping total of 15 pre-set programs, offering a huge amount of versatility for all your workout needs.
Whether you’re someone just looking to lose a little weight and get in shape or a seasoned athlete searching for a treadmill that can stand up to your intense exercise sessions, the MaxKare Folding Treadmill can work for you with its 17 inch wide running belt and strong copper motor.
While in action, the MaxKare Folding Treadmill is surprisingly silent, and whenever it’s not in use, you can quickly and easily fold it away to be safely and conveniently stored elsewhere, like in a closet or under a bed. It offers a range of running speeds from 0.5 to 8.5mph and several incline options too, and the only real downside is that the max weight capacity is 220 lbs, so some users will not be suited to this piece of equipment.
What makes it stand out?
- Powerful copper motor
- Almost silent when in use
- Easily folds away for safe storage
- A wide range of speed settings
- Detailed LCD screen
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
- Quite a low maximum weight capacity
ProGear 190 – Best Value
- Type: manual
- Weight capacity: 230 lbs.
- Workout programs: –
- Max. speed: –
- Incline: 2, up to 10 degrees
- Dimensions: 47 x 23 x 51 inches
- Weight: 49 lbs.
More features: longer handles; 1-year warranty
If you’re looking for the best manual treadmill under 600, the ProGear 190 is by far one of the best possible options on the market right now. Suitable for users of up to 230 lbs in weight, this manual treadmill features two levels of inclines and is made from strong and sturdy materials, offering both durability and ease of use. The only real downside is that it’s a little simple, without any modes or speed settings.
The frame is made from strong steel with a powder coated finish, while the belt has been fitted with oversized rollers for a smooth and consistent walking or jogging experience while in use. At the top, the user will find longer than usual handles with comfortable foam grips that feel great in the hands and allow users of all heights and fitness levels to feel safe and stay upright on the treadmill without any issues.
This model is very compact and slim too, so it won’t take up too much space in your home, and it’s one of the most lightweight treadmills on our list since it doesn’t contain a big heavy motor to power it up. This allows the user to move it around quite easily from room to room, as well as making installation simpler and safer too. It also comes fitted with an LCD display showing distance walked, calories burned, and time elapsed, as well as a fully foldable frame for your convenience.
What do we love it for?
- Compact and foldable design
- Strong and sturdy steel frame
- Comfortable ergonomic handles
- High quality belt
- Useful LCD display
What were we disappointed with?
- A little bit basic
Murtisol 1100W Folding Treadmill – Budget Pick
- Type: motorized
- Weight capacity: 220 lbs.
- Workout programs: 12
- Max. speed: not specified
- Incline: –
- Dimensions: 49.2 x 24.8 x 47.2 inches
- Weight: 51 lbs.
More features: easy installation; emergency stop; LCD display
Next up, we come to our Budget Pick for this list, the Murtisol 1100W Folding Treadmill. This model proves that you really don’t need to spend a lot in order to enjoy a high quality, reliable, and well made treadmill in your own home. It’s one of the most affordable models on the market right now and it still comes with some terrific features and a great range of settings too.
For starters, the Murtisol 1100W Folding Treadmill is a foldable model and can be reduced down to a super slim and easy to store size, perfect for those living in apartments or small homes, or simply those who don’t want a treadmill set up permanently taking up their space. The rest of the design is equally smart and sensible, with comfortable handles on the sides and a great quality belt that flows smoothly and consistently without any lag or excess friction.
The Murtisol 1100W Folding Treadmill is super easy to assemble and can be put together in about 20 minutes to half an hour, depending on how much experience you have, and it comes with a simple but effective LCD display to track your health and performance. The user can easily make use of the control panel on the main dashboard area to start or stop the motor, as well as adjusting the speed and even using the emergency stop switch if needed. The only issue is that the belt may be a little narrow for some users.
What makes it special?
- Great built quality
- Very affordable
- Easy assembly
- Simple to use control panel
- Various speed settings
What cons did we find?
- Belt may be too narrow for some
Exerpeutic TF1000 – Best Handles
- Type: motorized
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs.
- Workout programs: not specified
- Max. speed: 4MPH
- Incline: 2
- Dimensions: 60 x 36 x 15 inches
- Weight: 142 lbs.
More features: extra-long handles; 5-year motor and 1-year frame warranty
Next up, we come to the Exerpeutic TF1000, and one of the first things to note about this particular treadmill under 600 is the fact that it supports users of up to 400 lbs. This high weight capacity really sets the Exerpeutic TF1000 apart from other models and makes it a great choice for larger or heavier people who want a treadmill that can support their weight safely and effectively.
As well as being a super option for heavier users, the Exerpeutic TF1000 has been designed to offer flawless functionality for all with its super wide 20 inch running belt and smart foldable design. It can quickly and easily be folded up for your convenience and comes with extra long 18 inch safety handles too. There’s an LCD display showing time, distance, calories, and speed, and even a heart rate monitor to track your pulse.
Not only that, but this model also comes with a 5-year motor warranty too, so you’ll be covered by the manufacturer for the long term in case of any issues or unexpected incidents with the motor. Speaking of the motor, it’s a high powered 1.5 horsepower model that can stand up to the toughest of tests, capable of offering speeds of up to 4 mph. This won’t be quite fast enough for those who want to sprint and run on their treadmill, but it’s great for users who want to walk and jog.
What makes it special?
- Flexible foldable design
- Very high weight capacity
- Great for larger users
- Wide running belt
- Safe and comfortable handles
What cons did we find?
- Not the fastest speeds
Merax Treadmill – Best Bluetooth Connection
- Type: motorized
- Weight capacity: 264 lbs.
- Workout programs: 15
- Max. speed: 8 MPH
- Incline: 3
- Dimensions: 56.9 x 22.8 x 45.1 inches
- Weight: 103 lbs.
More features: Bluetooth connection allows FitShow sync; compatible with most smartphones
Last but not least, we come to the Merax Treadmill. If you want to enjoy some of the fancy features of the more expensive treadmills out there without paying such a high price, this is a terrific model to choose. Right from the first glance, you can see that the Merax Treadmill is a little special when compared to many other cheap treadmills. It’s fully motorized and offers speeds of up to 8mph, but that’s not all. This treadmill features Bluetooth functionality.
It can connect to your phone and even has a little device dock area on the main dashboard, letting you place your device down, connect it to the treadmill, and track your performance like never before when paired with the FitShow Sports app. With this connectivity, you can even use your phone to adjust the speed and settings of the treadmill itself. The technical power of the Merax Treadmill is really impressive and the large, easy to read display is great for keeping track of your performance and making changes on the fly as well.
The Merax Treadmill is also a foldable model, so it won’t take up too much of your space, and it even comes with transport wheels for easy maneuvering around the home. There are very few downsides to this model, and it even comes with multiple incline angles too, but it may be a little on the small side for larger users.
What makes it stand out?
- Amazing connectivity options
- Premium technical features
- Can be controlled with your phone
- Wide and easy to read display
- Foldable, practical design
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
- Too small for bigger users
Things to Consider
Buying your own treadmill is a great way to keep fit from the comfort of your own home, and as our list of treadmill reviews under $600 shows, it’s clear to see that you don’t need to pay a super high price for the privilege. There are some terrific treadmills available for less than $600, offering most of the same features and functionality as you would expect from more high end and expensive models. With that in mind, let’s take a look at what you should be expecting from a treadmill under 600 and what sorts of features you should look for when buying one.
What to expect from a treadmill under $600
If you’re buying a treadmill under 600 dollars, one of the first things to know is that you shouldn’t expect huge lists of features and functionalities. The reason these treadmills are a little cheaper than the rest is because they aim to offer the general benefits of a treadmill, without the fancy frills and digital displays of some of the more advanced models.
Therefore, you shouldn’t expect to find interactive video displays, touchscreens, and hundreds of different pre-programmed settings and workouts with these models, like you would on a treadmill over $2,000, for example. Instead, you should expect a relatively simple but still highly efficient and effective piece of workout equipment for running, walking, and jogging, with many models, like the Merax Treadmill, also coming with impressive digital and Bluetooth features.
Features to consider while choosing a treadmill under $600
When shopping for a treadmill under $600, you want to get the best possible option to suit your budget, your needs, and your situation, as well as it had’ve been in case if you choose, for instance, an elliptical under 600$. It’s vital to take several factors into account in order to find the right treadmill for you, asking yourself questions like “Do I prefer a manual or motorized treadmill?” and “How much space do I have to store the treadmill?” By considering these questions and various factors like speed settings, motor power, and incline angles, you can find the perfect treadmill.
Type
One of the first big things to consider when buying a treadmill is whether you want a manual or a motorized model. With a manual treadmill like the ProGear 190, the movement and action of your own feet and legs helps to power the belt and get the treadmill running, while a motorized treadmill, like the MaxKare Folding Treadmill, there’s a built-in motor which powers the device up, letting you hit a switch and start the belt turning on its own.
There are advantages to both models. Manual treadmills can provide more intense workouts, don’t need to be plugged in, are safer overall, and tend to be cheaper too. Motorized treadmills, however, are simpler to start, offer varying speed and workout features, and are better-suited for longer workouts.
Weight capacity
Another big factor to think about when shopping for the best treadmill for under $600 is the weight capacity.
Speeds
Speeds are another key feature, mostly associated with motorized treadmills since these models allow you to adjust the speed on-the-fly, through the use of the motor.
It also helps to look at the various speed increments of each model. Some of them will allow you to adjust the speed in increments of just 0.1mph, letting you gradually and gently increase or decrease the speed to suit your workout plan. The Exerpeutic TF1000 is able to offer this functionality, giving the user a lot of comfort and versatility in terms of their running or walking speed.
Motor
If you’re choosing a motorized treadmill over a manual treadmill, you need to take a closer look at the power and performance ratings of the motor to see what kind of output it can offer. The stronger the motor, the more options and stronger speeds you’ll be able to enjoy while using the treadmill. The Exerpeutic TF1000 is a great example for this category as it features a 1.5 horsepower high-torque motor, which can stand up to high-intensity workouts and last a long time with minimal maintenance required.
Incline angles
Next, you need to consider what kind of incline angle options are offered by your chosen treadmill.
The ProGear 190 offers two different incline settings up to 10 degrees, and the more incline angles and settings offered by your chosen treadmill, the more options you’ll have when carrying out your workouts and pushing your muscles.
Dimensions
Don’t forget to think about how big your treadmill actually is and ensure that it can fit in your home. It’s very wise to decide where you’re going to set the treadmill up and measure out that space before starting to shop for a treadmill.
Only choose a model that matches the measurements of your home, and if you don’t have much space, opt for a slim or compact model like the Mutrisol 1000W Folding Treadmill, as this will not only take up less room in your home but also has the advantage of folding down into an even smaller format when not in use.
Running surface dimensions
As well as the overall dimensions of your chosen treadmill, you should also consider the size of the running surface. One problem many people encounter when buying a treadmill is that the running belt can be a little two narrow to suit their frame, so it’s important to pay close attention to this aspect. In general, a wider belt, like the 20 inch belt on the Exerpeutic TF1000, is always better than a narrow one as it lets you run comfortably without touching the sides.
Weight
Along with size, you have to think about the weight of your chosen model, especially if you plan on moving it around often, folding it up and storing it away. If you just want to set it up and leave it in one place, the weight won’t be so important, but if you’re going to be lifting and moving the treadmill, it definitely helps to find one that is relatively lightweight, like the ProGear 190, which weighs less than 50 lbs.
Foldable design
Another big question to ask yourself when shopping for the best ProForm treadmill under $600 or any affordable treadmill in general is whether you’d like a foldable or non-foldable model. With a foldable treadmill, like the MaxKare Folding Treadmill, you can actually fold the unit up when not in use so it takes up way less space and can be stored away in a closet or safely transported to another room. Folding treadmills are highly advantageous, especially for people who don’t have a dedicated ‘home gym’ space and want to pack the treadmill away easily.
Digital display
Treadmills under 600 may not have all the fancy features of some of the more expensive models out there, but they can still come with some great digital displays to show you a range of data on your workout like what speed you’re currently running at, how long you’ve been working out, how many calories you’ve been burning, and even your current heart rate.
Having an easy to read digital display on your treadmill is always a bonus, and some of our top recommended models, like the MaxKare Folding Treadmill, come with these displays by default. Don’t forget to choose one with a large display if you sometimes struggle to read the little numbers on smaller screens.
Price
Of course, if you’re looking for the best treadmill under $600, price is clearly a matter of concern for you, and it’s interesting to note that you don’t always have to pay a high price tag to get a great quality piece of exercise equipment. Some top quality treadmills, like the Murtisol 1100W Folding Treadmill, are available at very low and attractive prices of under $300.
The more you pay, the more features and extras you’ll usually get, but in general, if you just want a simple treadmill to run or walk on, you don’t really need to go too high. Manual treadmills are often cheaper than their motorized counterparts and work perfectly for most users, but if you’re willing to pay a little extra, you’ll usually get some benefits like quieter operation, wider running belts, and more speed settings.
Warranty
Here’s another important factor to think about when shopping for a treadmill: the warranty. Treadmills are quite big investments for most people and you definitely don’t want your exercise equipment to break down and become unusable due to some kind of technical fault or flaw.
Fortunately, most of the best treadmills under 600 are well-made and shouldn’t experience any kind of issue as long as you follow the guidelines and use them with care. However, if any issues do arise, it helps to have a long and strong warranty to keep you covered, allowing the manufacturer to cover the costs of repairs or provide you with a replacement if necessary.
Warranty policies can vary from one treadmill to the next. Some are very short, while others can be a lot longer. The longer the warranty, the more peace of mind you’ll have as a user, and longer warranties also show that the manufacturer has a high level of confidence in their product too. The Exerpeutic TF1000 comes with an impressive 5-year warranty on the motor, so, no wonder that it is considered to be the best value treadmill with 400 lb weight capacity.
Extra Features
Last but not least, we encourage you to take a look at any extra features offered by each treadmill when trying to find the best model for you. Some of these features might seem minor at first glance, but can actually make the treadmill much more fun, enjoyable, and safe to use.
The Merax Treadmill, for example, comes with Bluetooth functionality and can pair with a sports app on your phone to synchronize your performance and provide you with additional data on your workout. It also features a device deck that is compatible with most modern smartphones.
The Murtisol 1100W Folding Treadmill, meanwhile, comes with a clever emergency stop feature for your safety and convenience, as well as super simple installation that can be completed in just 20 minutes. Be sure to consider the bonus features of each treadmill and think about how they might impact your workouts to find the right model for you.
FAQ
Not necessarily, but it all depends on which model you buy, how much experience you have in terms of DIY and putting things together, and whether or not you have anyone else to help you out. Often, a couple of people can put together most of the best home treadmills out there, and they all ship with instruction manuals and guides to help you along the way. The process is often relatively simple and most treadmills, like the Murtisol 1100W, can be put together in 1 or 2 hours without much hassle. If you aren’t sure about anything or feel like you’d prefer to have your treadmill assembled professionally, you can opt for this service but will need to pay extra.
Depending on what problems you have, it’s always wise to talk with your doctor or another health professional before starting up any new exercise regime or investing in a home treadmill. However, in general, walking or running on a treadmill is not bad for your back and will not make your back pain or problems any worse. In fact, treadmills are often recommended for those who suffer from back pain or back injuries as walking on a treadmill is a safe and gentle form of exercise that can actually improve your posture, strengthen your spine, and aid in losing weight that might be contributing to your current back issues. Exercising on a treadmill can even trigger the release of natural pain relieving chemicals in your brain, helping back pain fade away and providing comfort and relief when you need it.
Our Verdict
Overall, our top rated treadmill under 600 is the MaxKare Folding Treadmill. Compact and foldable, it’s perfect for those who don’t want a huge treadmill taking up space in their home, and it also offers a wide range of speed and incline settings too, along with a powerful copper motor offering almost-silent operation.
The next best treadmill under 600 is the ProGear 190. Rated as the Best Value treadmill on our list, it’s the best manual treadmill under 600 you can buy, offering two levels of incline between 6 and 10 degrees, along with a strong steel frame and long, comfortable, ergonomic handles for every user.
Our third favorite treadmill and our Budget Pick for this list is the Murtisol 1100W Folding Treadmill. With its LCD display, 1100W motor, super quiet operation, and incredibly easy assembly, this treadmill really excels in every possible category and ranks as one of the best cheap treadmills on the market.
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