Top 10 Best Treadmills for Zwift – Bring More Fun to Your Exercises

The treadmill has always remained a favorite among exercisers among the many exercise equipment. It guides individuals to walk or run on it at varying speeds and levels per every user’s ability and fitness level.

We look forward to more challenges and fun, even when using treadmills. How about mixing up running with some serious fun elements in the form of video games? The concept sounds alluring and worth attempting. Fortunately, Zwift is such an App that provides these possibilities. Running on a Zwift treadmill will bring more fun to your journey.

While not all treadmills are Zwift compatible, you can find the right model from Zwift.com. To save time, we collected the necessary information for you below.

Why Use Zwift in Treadmill Workout?

Zwift is an innovative virtual running game and workout application that transforms treadmill workouts into an engaging, fun, and competitive experience.

It addresses the monotony often associated with treadmill exercises by introducing elements of adventure and variety. Zwift is ideal for those whose exercise routines are disrupted by varying weather conditions, as it allows for indoor training anytime, regardless of external circumstances.

The app enables users to run in a virtual world, offering the thrill of running through diverse landscapes such as snowy mountains, rugged jungles, and serene parks.

Users can compete with friends, join athletes in events, and even create personalized avatars, similar to video games, enhancing the immersive experience.

Zwift fosters a sense of community by connecting users globally, allowing them to participate in group events or individual challenges.

This virtual platform not only enhances the enjoyment of running but also makes workout sessions more productive.

By merging the physical benefits of running with the excitement of interactive gaming, Zwift effectively transforms traditional treadmill exercise into an exhilarating and socially engaging activity.

What Makes a Good Treadmill for Zwift?

To effectively use Zwift, it’s crucial to have the right treadmill setup.

1. Ideally, a treadmill that can directly connect with Zwift for seamless integration is preferred. These smart treadmills typically have Bluetooth capabilities that allow them to communicate directly with the Zwift app, providing a more accurate and immersive experience.
2. Given the variety of workouts and running paces Zwift offers, the treadmill should be stable and durable enough to handle different intensities and styles of running.
3. Since Zwift includes changing terrains and conditions, the treadmill should have responsive speed and incline controls. This responsiveness is essential for simulating the varying conditions of virtual courses.
4. Ensure your treadmill is set up in an area with a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection for uninterrupted use.
5. For traditional treadmills that lack direct integration with Zwift, a foot pod can be used. Foot pods are small devices attached to your shoe that track and transmit running data like speed and cadence to Zwift. However, they may not be as accurate as a direct treadmill connection and rely on battery power.

Here Are Our Top 10 Best Smart Treadmills for Zwift

There are numerous treadmills available in the market, and it does become an exerting experience to choose the right one for your requirements. To do so, it is always easier when you handpick your primary requirements and compare models that satisfy them.

Some primary factors that could help you choose a treadmill include motor power, speed, size of the treadmill, comfort level, and mobile app availability. Below are 10 of the best Zwift-compatible treadmills that will make your exercise experience pleasurable and fruitful.

#1. Bowflex 10 Zwift Treadmill

If you are an avid athlete who wants to enjoy a running experience from the comfort of your home, whatever the weather, then here’s a treadmill for you. Bowflex 10 is a smart folding treadmill for Zwift power-packed with practical workout programs.

Bowflex 10 is perfectly compatible with Zwift training. It gives complete access to real-time workout sessions offered by Zwift.

Special features include a Burn Rate console with advanced calorie burn feedback, Bluetooth for data sharing; DailyBurn workout programs; and a wireless heart rate monitor.

Bowflex 10 is a treadmill with 400 lbs high user weight capacity. It is durable enough, and you need not worry about your weight when running on it. The dimension of Bowflex 10 is 85 x 40 x 65.5 inches.

It comes with a powerful motor with 3.5 HP, offering excellent speed from 0.5-12 mph and a maximum incline of -5% ~ 15% for Zwift-based workouts. The speed and incline both are under your will. The speed and inclination variations are suited to give challenging workouts.

With an optimal speed of 12 mph, you can train your legs to run a marathon like a pro. The steel framework used to make this treadmill is scratch and corrosion-resistant.

Talking of the impressive warranty, Bowflex BXT116 offers 15 15-year warranty on the frame. While mechanical and electrical parts are subjected to a warranty of 5 years. They also provide you with 2 years of free service.

#2. Bowflex T22 Smart Treadmill—Best High-End Zwift Treadmill

This Bowflex T22 treadmill is here to stay. This is a Zwift-certificated treadmill model, verified by Zwift officially to adapt their App. It is one of the most favorable choices for those who want to use the Zwift app to help them train harder for longer and get a fast calorie-burning benefit.

The initial dimensions are enormous enough, but the machine can be folded upon to store it conveniently. Bowflex 22 folding treadmill occupies 85″ lengthwise. It is 39.6″ wide and 70″ tall in extended form.

The integrated console in this treadmill controls the incline and the speed. The optimal speed limit is 12 mph, the incline ranges from -5% to 20%, and the weight capacity is up to 400 lbs, considered one of the most durable treadmills for sprinting.

This treadmill comes with a 22-inch full-color touchscreen for you to keep a watch on your calorie burn!

Not just that, you also get an inbuilt MP3 player to enjoy soothing or workout music, a sound system, and silicon buttons on the console for you to easily operate the buttons.

Manufacturers are offering 15 year exciting warranty on frames and motors and 5 years warranty on associated parts. You get 2 year warranty for labor as well.

Foldability, customizability, and Bluetooth connectivity clubbed with rich features make the Bowflex T22 the best Zwift treadmill.

#3. NordicTrack T 6.5 S Treadmill

An entry-level treadmill from a reputed company, NordicTrack, this folding treadmill successfully captures the elegance and features available in all other treadmills from this brand at a great price.

Available with 20 different workout program options, this compact running machine is powered by a 2.6 CHP motor and provides a maximum of 10% inclination with a maximum running speed of 10 mph starting from 0.5 mph.

The motor works smoothly without noise. And the running surface comprises the FlexSelect cushion system that’s present by default in most NordicTrack treadmills, making the Zwift running/walking experience easy on the joints and providing a firm surface to exercise.

Though the treadmill weighs 193 pounds, it can be folded and kept and has a weight-bearing limit of 300 pounds.

The Bluetooth connectivity option helps you connect to iFit. But the downside here is that the user needs a compatible device such as a foot pod or trend tracker to pair it with Zwift.

#4. Xterra TRX3500 Treadmill

Xterra TRX3500 is offered by Xterra, a company known for manufacturing low-cost yet durable cardio equipment. Launched way back in 2018, this treadmill is still a favorite choice among runners who want to go into general fitness or those dedicated to running marathons.

Xterra had put in a lot of effort to make it an ideal budget offering without compromising the product quality. In terms of specifications and functionality, Xterra TRX 3500 earns five stars.

The 60” x 20” running deck provides a lot of space for fast sprinting and long marathons. It incorporates the patented XTRASoft cushioning, which helps to cut the impact.

Like Sole F80, Xterra TRX3500 is also foldable, so we don’t have to sacrifice the space when it’s not in use.

You can speed up to a maximum speed of 12 mph with a 12% incline to exercise at a higher intensity, thanks to the strong 3 CHP Motor under the hood.

The 6.5” blue backlit LCD is easy to read and keeps you informed on all the relevant information. The sensors are provided in stainless steel handlebars for heart rate monitoring, or it can be done through a wireless chest strap ( sold separately with this model).

Xterra offers a lifetime warranty on frame and motor and 2 years warranty on deck and parts. This machine is altogether a lightning deal.

#5. Xterra TRX4500 Treadmill

Xterra TRX4500 is the juiced-up version of TRX3500 and a premium home treadmill for Zwift. If you need a high-quality treadmill priced at around $1000, TRX4500 might be your best buy.

The power under the hood of the treadmill comes from a 3.25 HP motor. The 0.25 HP more power than TRX3500 is given for an extra 3% increase in incline. The 15% incline is not what every brand offers. Most of them provide 10-12% inclination, making TRX4500 stand out.

The display unit is also slightly upgraded from 6.5” in TRX3500 to 7.5” in TRX4500. This machine is also a space saver as one can fold to 65 deg, reducing the length to 40%.

The HR chest strap, which we very dearly missed in TRX3500, comes in the box here.

Like the TRX3500, the TRX4500 is also Zwift ready, having Bluetooth enabled. It can sync and automatically store and send your treadmill exercise data.

There are 33 preset programmes loaded in TRX4500 covering almost all kinds of basic workout routines. With a high-quality treadmill like TRX4500, it will more than satisfy Zwift users by giving them the best virtual running experience.

Xterra 4500 treadmill offers a lifetime warranty on frame and motor, 5 years warranty on the deck, and 2 years on parts.

#6. XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill—Best Budget Zwift Compatible Treadmill

The XTERRA 150 foldable treadmill is a great value addition to your home as it was exclusively designed for home gym purposes.

It’s a good treadmill for Zwift and other gaming, but please note that this treadmill doesn’t directly connect to any smartphone applications, and you have to get a third-party device (e.g., foot pods, Fitbit, Apple Watch, etc.) to track the workout data, enabling you to input your workout metrics to Zwift.

It comes with 12 pre-installed programs that vary in intensity, has three incline options to choose from, and consists of a 5 inch LCD.

Equipped with a 2.25 HP motor that varies in speed from 0.5-10 mph, it can be named a versatile machine that’s good enough for Zwift working out.

This treadmill’s weight is 108 pounds only, making it can be easily folded, moved, and stored, but the lightweight treadmill is heavy-duty enough and can bear a maximum user weight of 250 pounds.

But it has no Bluetooth facility or a USB port that could be a disadvantage.

#7. Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT Treadmill

Horizon Fitness 7.4 AT is a mid-range running machine for Zwift App that doesn’t break the bank. This high-quality treadmill helps people new to fitness focus on becoming healthy with light or moderate workouts.

The treadmill is compact, foldable, and storable, with a hydraulic folding option at 310 pounds of weight.

It comes with 10 different workout programs, has a power-assisted incline up to 15%, and goes from a speed of 0-12 mph using a 3.5 CHP (continuous horsepower) motor.

The Horizon 7.4 AT treadmill can bear up to 325 pounds of user weight. And it comes with a Bluetooth connectivity option that enables the user to enjoy audio and video.

Zwift will auto-detect Horizon 7.4 AT, and the consumer’s avatar is responsive to the treadmill speed changes, etc. So you can enjoy quick access to the virtual world at the tap of a button easily.

Besides these, several other features include a water bottle holder, a reading shelf, an audio in/out jack, a fan, a smartphone/tablet holder, etc.

It also has a decent warranty of one year, that’s good enough for such a versatile, fully Zwift-certificated treadmill.

#8. Sole F63 Foldable Treadmill with Integrated Bluetooth

If you are on the hunt for an affordable and high-quality treadmill, then here’s the Sole F63 foldable treadmill to fall into your arms. The great versatility it offers allures the users.

It is one of the best-suggested treadmills for beginners at running. The material used to make this treadmill is a heavy-duty steel frame.

The space allocated for this needs to be around 82″ lengthwise and 35″ breadthwise. The treadmill corresponds to 57″ in height.

The incline ranges between 0 to 15%. The higher the incline, the more calories you will burn.

Utilize its preinstalled training programs for cardio strength, muscle toning, and loading calories.

The presence of a cushion flex deck can reduce the impact on joints by up to 40%. Experience the thrill of a powerful 3.0 CHP motor that lets you reach the maximum speed limit of up to 12 mph.

There are ten workout programs on this low-impact treadmill. You can also include two custom profiles for conducting day-to-day workout sessions.

For extra comfort, along with this treadmill, you also get cooling fans, a water bottle holder, and an accessory tray.

And yes, it can be folded too. Do you get bored fast? Hold your device on the shelf provided and turn on the integrated Bluetooth audio speakers.

Sole F63 has a relatively lesser warranty duration than its sibling models. This version promises you a 3 years warranty with a 1-year labor service free of charge.

#9. Sole F80 Fitness Treadmill

Sole Treadmills are market leaders currently, and F80 is their flagship offering. Sole F80 is a robust, feature-packed Zwift favorite treadmill for home use and is regarded as a “Hardcore Machine meant for Heavy Runners.”

All thanks to its steel frame and solid reinforced running deck. Sole gave the F80 a reversible deck when it upgraded the model. This doubles the life of the deck and quietens the sound of each step, and reduces the impact on your joints by up to 40%.

The 22” x 60” running belt provides plenty of fronts, back clearance, and lateral space for tall and large runners.

Sole F80 Bluetooth capabilities coupled with Bluetooth speakers and tablet holders make it a perfect companion for long Zwift marathons.

The USB charging port is also a gift for folks who want on-the-go charging of media devices.

Sole F80 is also a space-saving treadmill for small apartments. You can fold and tuck it into the corner, making space in already cramped apartments.

The areas in which the Sole can improve the F80 are the console and screen design. The screen comes with a no-color display, which is a bit of a letdown, and the console is very plain and simple.

#10. True Performance 300 Treadmill

A commercial-grade treadmill from a well-known manufacturing company, True Fitness, this fitness equipment is constructed with durable and strong material that promises a long life.

It arrives with a 3 CHP motor that offers a maximum speed of 12 mph and -1% to 15% incline, and this is one of the most recommended treadmills for Zwift as it offers solid performance for most types of runners.

The treadmill has a 60” x 21” extra-wide belt that minimizes the impact on knees and joints. It can accommodate users up to 350 lbs and under 6′ 5”.

The features provided are also great—the 8.5-inch console, four user profiles, wireless heart rate sensors, cruise control on heart rate, a lifetime warranty on the frame, and a 30-year warranty on the motor, making it an excellent choice for Zwift training.

Which Is the Best Treadmill for Zwift Overall?

The Bowflex T22 Smart Treadmill stands out from other models primarily due to its comprehensive integration with Zwift, offering an unparalleled virtual running experience.

This integration is seamless thanks to its official Zwift certification, ensuring users can fully utilize all features of the app.

Unlike many other treadmills, the Bowflex T22 combines a powerful 3.5 HP motor with a wide speed range and a significant incline variation, making it versatile for various training intensities and user preferences.

The spacious 22″ x 60″ running surface is another standout feature, offering ample room for tall users and accommodating longer strides comfortably. This is a significant advantage over many other models, which may have narrower or shorter decks.

How We Rate Treadmills?

Homegymmag.com’s treadmill rating system evaluates treadmills across eight key areas: maximum speed, motor, built-in programs, cushioning, space, inclines, durability, and ease of use. Each category is rated on a 1-10 scale, with 10 indicating top quality.

To gather necessary information, our team follows a rigorous process:

• Scouring Manufacturer’s Websites: Collecting current specs and features.
• Interpreting Product Specs: Analyzing specs to identify the ideal user profile.
• Evaluating Value for Money: Comparing quality to price.
• Listing Pros and Cons: Offering a balanced perspective.
• Engaging with Customer Service: Testing support and responsiveness.
• Reviewing Customer Feedback: Incorporating real-world user experiences.
• Comparing with Other Models: Understanding how each treadmill stands in the market.

This thorough approach ensures potential buyers receive comprehensive, unbiased information to aid their decision-making.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Smart Treadmill for Zwift

A treadmill is a perfect machine to walk or run in the comfort of your home. Elevate your exercising experience by connecting to Zwift, listening to music, or watching your favorite TV series!

Working out on this equipment provides you with an excellent cardio workout and many health benefits.

If you have decided to buy one smart Zwift treadmill for yourself, choosing the best equipment now comes the challenge. There are many options available in the market but ensure to satisfy the below criteria before finalizing.

1. Deck Height & Room Space

A treadmill is bulky and occupies lots of space. Even a compact treadmill takes much more space than you thought, so if you live in a room with limited space, measure the available space in your room and the footprint of a treadmill before choosing one.

Know the deck height of the machine to avoid any clearance issues. Measure the height between the floor and the ceiling to know how much space you have for your machine. Measure the deck height plus the tallest user’s height and give an extra 6” clearance to have a comfortable exercising experience.

This would prevent you from colliding with the ceiling and not bumping your head on the ceiling when you step onto the machine. Find more treadmills for low-ceiling rooms here.

2. Running Deck Area

This is extremely important when choosing a treadmill. Choose a machine that’s just right—not too small that it makes you fearful of stepping over it or too big. For comfortable Zwift running, the belt should be at least 20” in width and 55”  in length. If you are a taller runner (over 6′), you need at least a 60” belt for running.

3. Features

Hunt for a treadmill with features ranging from a console fan, speaker, heart rate monitor, TV to motor, weight capacity, incline settings, and cushioning. They are worth the money invested in it if they motivate you to run regularly.

4. Durability

Material quality is highly critical for choosing a Zwift running treadmill. Select a treadmill made of high-quality materials that offer longer life. Durability is usually reflected in the weight capacity. Finding a treadmill with high capacity ensures the longevity of your treadmill.

Final Thoughts

Indoor running is a good alternative to running outdoors when the weather does not allow you to do so. And with Zwift, you get an enjoyable and challenging running session that you can do solo or with other users online. This revolutionary workout and gaming app will get you motivated and help you regularly take part in your workout sessions.

But to maximize advantages, choosing the best Zwift treadmill that suits your budget and offers a wide array of specifications is necessary.

I hope this review helps you in making a wise choice. Finally, if you can’t find a treadmill that you enjoy in this review, here is a list of smart treadmill that works well with Zwift (from Zwift.com).