Looking to build a home gym in a tight space without breaking the bank? You’re not alone. In small apartments and compact homes, every square foot counts — which is why finding a foldable treadmill budget option can be a total game-changer. Below, we break down the best foldable treadmills under $500, designed for those who want fitness without the floor plan headache.
Why This Topic Matters in Small Spaces
Compact living often means sacrificing equipment, but your health shouldn’t be one of them. Traditional treadmills can eat up precious space, generate excessive noise, and cost a fortune. Foldable treadmills solve all of these problems by collapsing down to fit in closets or under beds — perfect for renters, apartment dwellers, or anyone creating a compact home gym.
Whether you’re a casual walker or starting a new running habit, there’s a budget-friendly foldable treadmill that fits your lifestyle and your living room. Let’s dive into the top picks that prove great gear doesn’t have to be expensive or oversized.
In fact, if you’re building out a complete setup, you might want to explore our full guide on the best equipment for home gyms. It includes other space-saving gear to pair with your foldable treadmill and maximize your small space workout area.
Best Foldable Treadmills for Small Apartments
XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill
A consistently top-rated budget treadmill that balances functionality with a compact, foldable design.
- Compact footprint with easy pull-pin folding mechanism
- Quiet 2.25 HP motor — ideal for early-morning or late-night runs
- 12 preset programs and 3 manual incline settings
- Large LCD display shows speed, incline, time, distance, and calories
- Max speed: 10 MPH — great range for walking or jogging
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill
One of the most space-conscious treadmills under $500, built for smooth indoor cardio in tight quarters.
- Foldable with Soft Drop System — no lifting required
- Shock absorption deck minimizes joint impact
- 9 built-in workout programs for guided training
- Compact size: fits in most closets or corners
- Manual incline options for added intensity
Buy Now and make your small-space workouts smooth and simple.
REDLIRO Compact Folding Treadmill
A slim-profile treadmill that folds nearly flat and is perfect for under-bed storage.
- Ultra-slim design — ideal for under-bed or vertical closet storage
- Quiet operation under 60dB for shared apartment living
- Speed range: 0.5 to 7.5 MPH
- Multi-layer belt designed for shock absorption and grip
- Emergency stop clip for added safety
Check Price Now for a treadmill that slides out of sight when you’re done sweating.
Weslo Cadence G 5.9i Folding Treadmill
Combines Bluetooth tech, iFit compatibility, and a folding frame — all for under $500.
- iFit-ready — access interactive personal training (subscription optional)
- SpaceSaver Design folds up vertically
- 2-position incline for improved calorie burn
- Comfort Cell cushioning for joint-friendly running
- Blue-tinted LCD window for easy readouts
Buy Now on a Budget and take advantage of premium features without the premium price.
Key Buying Considerations
Size & Foldability
Check the footprint when unfolded and folded. Some models fold completely flat, others fold vertically. Look for “SpaceSaver” or “slim profile” mentions — these are ideal for tight living rooms or under-bed storage.
Noise Level
If you live in an apartment, noise matters. Treadmills under 60 decibels are ideal. Motors with lower horsepower tend to run quieter, but still get the job done for walking and light jogging.
Functionality
Basic models often lack incline or have limited programs, but many still offer LCD displays, speed control, and safety clips. Decide whether you want smart features like Bluetooth or app compatibility.
Weight Capacity
Most budget treadmills support 220–250 lbs. Always check this before buying to ensure long-term durability and safety.
Price vs. Value
Under $500 doesn’t mean low quality — many of the options above offer surprising features like shock absorption, iFit access, and multiple programs at a fraction of the cost of commercial units.
Pro tip: Always read real user reviews to confirm long-term reliability before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best foldable treadmill on a budget?
The XTERRA TR150 offers the best blend of features, durability, and compact design under $500. It’s perfect for small apartments and beginner runners.
Are foldable treadmills good for apartments?
Yes. They’re quiet, compact, and easy to store — making them ideal for apartment dwellers who need space-saving workout solutions.
Can I run on a foldable treadmill under $500?
Yes, but check the max speed. Models like the XTERRA TR150 and Weslo G 5.9i support speeds up to 10 MPH, suitable for jogging and light running.
Do foldable treadmills need assembly?
Most budget treadmills arrive semi-assembled. Expect minimal setup — often just attaching arms or securing the console.
Final Thoughts
Fitting a treadmill into a small apartment used to be a luxury. Not anymore. With these foldable treadmill budget picks, you can work out at home without sacrificing space or spending a fortune.
Our top recommendation? The XTERRA TR150. It’s durable, quiet, and folds up in seconds — perfect for tight spaces and tighter budgets.
Ready to take the next step in your compact home gym journey? Check today’s prices here and bring your cardio goals home.
Pingback: Best Doorway Pull Up Bar for Renters (2025)