Best Treadmills of 2025 – Consumer Reports

CR’s tests focus on ease of use, construction quality (including design, noise and feel, and durability), ergonomics (how well the machine accommodates different users), exercise range, and user safety.

For exercise range, we assess whether a machine is suitable for a variety of fitness levels. Our tests factor in the range of treadmill speeds, the incline range, stability, cushioning, and more.

Our user safety tests evaluate the security of folding models, the accessibility of the emergency stop button, the workings of the safety key (which stops the treadmill if you fall), and more.

We also perform a durability test using custom rigs made of giant metal drums covered with rubber “feet.” Each rig runs along each treadmill for a total of 25 hours to simulate half a year of use. The results of that test are factored into our construction rating. For more details on how we test treadmills, see our treadmill buying guide.