Walking is a great way to stay active, but sometimes it’s just not possible to get outside. It might be p*ssing down (if you’re in the UK, it probably is), it might be dark, or you might have just ran out of clean clothes.
Things happen. That’s where a walking treadmill comes in handy.
Walking treadmills allow you to get your daily steps in, no matter the weather or time of day.
But they don’t come cheap. Some walking treadmills can set you back up to £2,000, and I’m sorry, no amount of steps will ever be worth that. That’s why I’ve tried and tested the best cheap walking treadmills on the market, all under £200.
Cheap, cheerful and do what they say on the tin. With my top picks, you can stay active without breaking the bank.
What To Look For in A Walking Treadmill
When looking for a cheap walking treadmill, there are a few key features to consider to ensure that you get the most value for your money. H
ere are some factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:
Size and Weight Capacity
The size and weight capacity of the treadmill are important factors to consider before making your purchase. Make sure to choose a treadmill that can accommodate your height and weight comfortably. You don’t want to feel cramped or unstable while using the machine.
Motor Power
The motor power of the treadmill is another important factor to consider. A higher motor power means that the treadmill can handle a heavier load and will be more durable in the long run. Look for a treadmill with at least a 1.5 horsepower motor.
Speed and Incline
The speed and incline capabilities of the treadmill are also important to consider. If you want to increase the intensity of your workout, look for a treadmill that can reach higher speeds and inclines.
Display and Controls
The display and controls of the treadmill should be easy to use and read. Look for a treadmill with a clear display that shows your speed, time, distance, and calories burned. The controls should be easy to reach and adjust while walking.
Safety Features
Safety features are essential when using any treadmill.
Look for a treadmill with safety features such as an emergency stop button and a safety key that will turn off the machine if you fall or lose your balance.
Best Cheap Walking Treadmills
Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to add some low-impact cardio to your routine, these treadmills are perfect for getting your steps in without leaving the house.
So, without further ado, here are my top picks for the best cheap walking treadmills.
HomeFitnessCode Under Desk Treadmill
If you’re looking for a compact and easy-to-use treadmill for your home office, the Home Fitness Code Under Desk Treadmill is a great option.
Pros
- The speed range of 1-10km/h can meet the needs of most non-professional athletes, and the remote control allows for easy speed adjustments.
- The 1.5HP maximum motor is powerful and smooth, making it suitable for users with a maximum weight of up to 110kg.
- The 5-layer wear-resistant non-slip running belt with cushioning effect greatly absorbs shock to reduce the impact on your joints and knees.
Cons
- The running area of 104 x 39cm may be too small for some users who prefer a larger space.
- The treadmill is only available in pink, which may not be to everyone’s taste.
- Some users have reported issues with the LED display not working properly.
Honestly, I’m impressed with the HomeFitnessCode Under Desk Treadmill’s compact design and easy-to-use features. The treadmill arrives fully assembled, so you can start using it right away. The remote control makes it easy to adjust the speed, and the LED display tracks your performance, including running time, calories burned, speed, and distance.
The 1.5HP motor is powerful and smooth, and the low noise ensures that you can exercise without disturbing others. The 5-layer wear-resistant non-slip running belt with cushioning is supposed to protect my joins (win). But, pre warning, this belt will slip over time. You’ll just need to readjust and you’ll be back on your way.
Homelikesport Folding Treadmill
This might be a rogue option, but the Homelikesport Folding Treadmill for those who want an affordable, manual treadmill that is easy to use.
Pros
- The mechanical design of this treadmill makes it safer and more environmentally friendly as it does not need to be plugged in.
- With a maximum weight capacity of 150 kg, it can accommodate most users.
- The treadmill is foldable, making it easy to store and save floor space.
Cons
- The treadmill’s manual design may not provide the same level of workout as an electric treadmill.
- The belt and frame are not of the highest quality, which may affect the longevity of the treadmill.
- The treadmill is not suitable for running.
The Homelikesport Folding Treadmill is a great option for those who want a simple, affordable treadmill for light exercise. The mechanical design of the treadmill is a unique feature that makes it safer and more environmentally friendly than electric treadmills.
However, the treadmill’s manual design may not provide the same level of workout as an electric treadmill, and the belt and frame are not of the highest quality, which may affect the longevity of the treadmill. It’s also obviously not an under desk treadmill, so you wouldn’t be able to use a desktop computer whilst getting your steps. My laptop did fit nicely on top of the built in table rest, so it’s not to say you can’t work and walk.
Overall, the Homelikesport Folding Treadmill is a good choice for those who want an affordable, space-saving treadmill for light exercise.
eJogga Breeze B3 Walking Pad & Under Desk Treadmill
The eJogga Breeze B3 Walking Pad & Under Desk Treadmill does what it says on the tin. It’s compact, lightweight and easy to use, making it a great choice for those who want to get some exercise in without leaving their desk.
Pros
- The multi-speed and LCD screen feature allows you to adjust the speed according to your physical condition and exercise needs, and monitor your movement data in real-time.
- The portable and slim design makes it easy to store and move, even under furniture when not in use.
- The installation-free design means you can use it straight out of the box, without any complicated setup.
Cons
- The speed range only goes up to 10 km/h, which may not be fast enough for more advanced runners.
- The walking surface is narrow, so it may not be suitable for those with larger feet or who require a wider surface.
- The maximum weight capacity of 110 kg, so it might not be worth it for some users.
The eJogga Breeze B3 Walking Pad & Under Desk Treadmill is a great way to stay active while working from home or in the office. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to store and move, while the multi-speed and LCD screen feature allows you to customize your workout according to your needs. The installation-free design means you can start using it right away, without any complicated setup.
The treadmill’s multi-layer shield design and sturdy steel frame make it shock-absorbing and noise-reducing, so you can exercise without disturbing others. And with the remote control, you can easily adjust the speed to reach the intensity that best suits you.
Overall, the eJogga Breeze B3 Walking Pad & Under Desk Treadmill is a great investment for anyone who wants to stay fit and healthy while working from home or in the office.
ZYLOYAL10 Treadmill
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly treadmill the ZYLOYAL10 might just be the one.
Pros
- The folding design makes it easy to store when not in use.
- The Bluetooth speaker and remote control add convenience to your workouts.
Cons
- The maximum speed of 6 km/h may not be fast enough for some users.
- The running belt area of 38 x 100cm may be too small for taller users.
- The lack of incline may limit the intensity of your workouts.
I have zero complaints about the ZYLOYAL model: the treadmill arrived pre-assembled, with only the handle and phone holder needing to be attached. The handle is adjustable and detachable, which is a nice feature if you prefer to use the treadmill without one.
The ZYLOYAL10 treadmill is lightweight and easy to move around, which is great for those who need to store it when not in use. The folding design is simple and quick, and the treadmill can be stored in a small space.
The Bluetooth speaker is a nice touch, and it’s easy to connect your phone to the treadmill to listen to music or podcasts while you work out.