Best Quiet Treadmill for Apartment Workouts

Exercising at home is great for those who prefer to exercise in private and feel uncomfortable in gyms or parks.

Not only that but exercising at home saves money on potentially expensive gym memberships, and if you live in an area that doesn’t have a lot of outdoor space exercising at home is an excellent alternative.

Treadmill fitness is particularly convenient, as not only does it have the benefits of shock absorption but you’re able to get in an effective workout while at home watching TV or listening to music.

And with under-the-desk treadmills, you can even get a workout at the office! 

However, cardio training - such as using a treadmill - can be loud. Especially if you live with friends or family, or an apartment with downstairs neighbors.

Having a treadmill at home gives you a lot more freedom to exercise whenever you want, but this can be a problem if you like to exercise early in the morning or late at night. The last thing you want to do is disrupt your roommates or neighbors. 

Thankfully, there are plenty of quiet treadmills on the market to solve this problem.

Their motors are designed to minimize noise and reduce impact when you walk, jog or run, which is not only good news for your neighbors but your joints too! 

Below you’ll find some of the best quiet treadmills around, along with some tips on what to look out for when investing in a quiet treadmill. And if you just need to know how to make your current treadmill a little quieter we have advice on how to do that too. 

Best Quiet Treadmills for Apartments

OUR TOP PICK

NordicTrack T Series 6.5S Treadmill + 30-Day iFIT Membership ,Black/Gray

The NordicTrack T Series Treadmill is perfect for a quiet workout thanks to its powerful 2.6 CHP* DurX Smart Response Motor.

Not only is the motor quiet but the treadmill’s belt is designed to cushion your footfalls with each step, further reducing any disruptive, unwanted noise.

The treadmill’s belt is also extra wide at 20 inches, giving you more than enough room to run. Another edge it has over other quiet treadmills is that it can accommodate users up to 300lbs. 

This treadmill is available with either a 5 or 10-inch display and for extra convenience includes an integrated tablet holder. And, if you feel like shaking up your workout routine, each treadmill comes with a 30-Day Free iFit Trial Membership giving you access to a library of on-demand workouts. 

What’s more, through the treadmill’s advanced Bluetooth technology the iFit app can automatically adjust the treadmill’s settings during workouts.

And, when you’re not working out, its folding design makes it easy to fold away and means it takes up less space when not in use. 

However, if you purchase the treadmill and decide it’s not for you, there is an extended 90-day return window. It is also protected with a 10-year frame warranty, 2-year parts warranty, and 1-year labor warranty.

Pros

  • SMART-Response Motor - This motor not only promises a quiet workout but more effective speed, interval, and endurance training. 
  • Extra-wide belt - The 20” x 55” tread belt offers plenty of leg and elbow space while you run, while the FlexSelect deck cushioning reduces pressure on your joints and softens footfall. 
  • Innovative SpaceSaver design - The treadmill’s design means storage is easy, especially with the EasyLift Assist that allows you to fold up your treadmill after use for compact storage.
  • Personal training at home - The 30-Day Free iFit Trial Membership gives you one month of free access to live, trainer-led studio workouts from all over the world. Plus, with SMART OneTouch speed control your trainer can adjust your speed through an advanced Bluetooth connection.
  • Long-lasting warranty - With a 10-year frame warranty you can enjoy quiet workouts for years to come. 

Cons

  • Heavy - At 200lbs this treadmill may be difficult for some to maneuver.
  • iFit costs extra - As a free trial with iFit is only available for 30 days, if you wish to continue using the feature after that you will be charged.

EDITORS CHOICE

Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill, 2.25HP Under Desk Electric, Installation-Free, with Bluetooth Speaker, Remote Control and LED Display, Walking Jogging Machine for Home/Office Use (Silver)

The Goplus Folding Treadmill is incredibly versatile and perfect for those who want to be able to work out quickly and pretty much anywhere.

Their running treadmill is ideal for an at-home workout, and if you like to multitask their under-desk treadmill is great for an at-the-office workout.

The folding rail makes this possible and makes storing the treadmill easy. 

What’s more, the 2.25 HP ultra-quiet motor and multi-layer dampening ensures a quiet workout, so whether you’re working out in your living room or the office, there is no need to worry about disturbing your roommates or colleagues!

And speaking of versatility, it is available in five colors: red, blue, champagne, dark green, black, and silver.

So whatever your personal style there is sure to be a color available that suits you perfectly. You can even co-ordinate your treadmill with your home decor! 

This quiet treadmill also has several impressive features such as Bluetooth technology, a built-in phone holder, a safety key, and an easy-to-operate remote control to ensure a user-friendly experience.

Use the remote control to adjust the speed of movement and bring the treadmill to a quick, safe stop. In an emergency, the safety key will shut down the treadmill immediately.

The clear LED display shows time, speed, distance, and calories burned. One glance is all it takes to monitor your progress and movement data in real-time. 

Pros

  • Innovative 2-in-1 folding treadmill - This treadmill has 2 modes to not only allow usage in a variety of settings but to give you a more varied workout. When the riser is folded, it can be used as an under-the-desk treadmill at a speed of 1-4km/h so you can get a gentle workout while getting work done. And, when the handrail is raised the running speed is 1-8mph for a more intense workout. 
  • 2.25. Quiet motor and shock reduction system - The powerful but ultra-quiet motor not only allows for a quiet workout that doesn’t disturb those around you but the sturdy and durable steel frame and multi-layer shield design is shock-absorbing and noise-reducing for a quieter, safer and more comfortable run.
  • Non-slip running belt - The 7-layer non-slip texture running belt provides a spacious running area of 40” x 16” and an effective and safe cushion for your knees and muscles.
  • Lots of features for a multi-tasking workout - To listen to music during your workout simply connect your phone to the treadmill via Bluetooth, and if you would like to call or video chat with friends it’s easy with the treadmill’s phone holder. 
  • Easy to move and store - The compact, foldable design and built-in transportable wheels make this treadmill easy to store and move, while also saving space. Not only that, but this treadmill is ready to use out of the box and requires minimal setup. 

Cons

  • Readings can be inaccurate - Readings for distance, speed, and calories burned may be inaccurate.
  • Could be prone to slipping - Some users have reported that the belt can slip and also squeak. To remedy the squeaking, the treadmill does come with two bottles of oil to lubricate the belt. 

BEST VALUE

Exerpeutic TF1000 Ultra High Capacity Walk to Fitness Electric Treadmill, 400 lbs

The Exerpeutic TF1000 Electric Treadmill offers plenty of support for your workout, with a maximum speed of four miles per hour, and a 20-inch-wide belt for extra surface space.

The reinforced frame is also capable of withstanding up to 400lbs.

To ensure safety, the extra-long 18-inch safety handles are 2x longer than the standard length. These handy, convenient rails also come with built-in controls to regulate speed and to turn the treadmill on and off.

This is a really quiet treadmill. What keeps this treadmill quiet is the 1.5 horsepower high-torque motor. This motor reduces noise by utilizing a specialized quiet drive.

There are also two incline settings to choose from and if you would like to keep an eye on your progress, the LCD display window provides information on speed, pulse, distance walked, and how many calories you’ve burned.  

This treadmill is also easy to assemble, as it is virtually ready to go out of the box. Wheels make the treadmill easy to move around, and its fold-up feature makes it just as easy to store. 

If you decide this treadmill is not for you, it’s protected by a 5-year motor warranty, a 1-year frame warranty, and a 90-day warranty for other parts and labor. 

Pros

  • Very quiet - This treadmill is not only extremely quiet, but the lower your speed the quieter it is!
  • Ability to incline - A walking treadmill with an incline is hard to find, but you don’t need to look any further than the Exerpeutic TF100 Electric Treadmill! The incline is a manual function and there are 2 pre-set inclines. Just use the Incline Adjuster at the back of the frame to set the incline to 3% or 6%.
  • Suitable for use at a desk - The handrails are the perfect size for use at a desk, although using this comfortably will depend on your height and the size of your desk.
  • Built-in controls - The controls on the handrail and console not only allow you to control speed but also provide you information on your speed, distance, time spent moving and also measures your calories and heart rate. To get a more accurate reading of the latter, use an online calculator to cross-reference your speed, distance, and time with your weight and height. 
  • Compact and lightweight - As well as being easy to move and store, at 130lbs this treadmill is lighter than most. 

Cons

  • Manual not helpful - There is little information in the manual, particularly in regards to the heart monitor, changing the room temperature, or adjusting the time.
  • Belt prone to slipping - While the belt is centered on arrival, some users have reported it sloping to the left or right after using it a couple of times. 

RUNNER UP

LifeSpan TR1200-DT5 Treadmill Desk

The LifeSpan TR1200-DT5 Treadmill Desk is the perfect option if you would like to exercise while working, as it comes with a detachable desk.

The desk workstation is a combination of LifeSpan’s under desk treadmill base and manual height adjustable standing desk, which you can adjust to a height of 52.5 inches. 

This compact treadmill measures 68.5” x 28.5” (LxW) and has a large desktop surface area of 38” x 29” (WxD), ensuring a comfortable and ergonomic working experience. 

This quiet treadmill reaches a maximum speed of 4mph and has a 2.25 horsepower motor. It has 6 impact absorbers to reduce noise, and a belt that is 20” x 50” long and can withstand 350 lbs.

You can store this treadmill pretty much anywhere and save space with its portable wheels and lightweight mobility.

The treadmill’s console can read out your distance traveled, your calories burned, your walk and run time, and step count, keeping you updated while you focus on your workout. 

The console can also let you adjust the treadmill desk and set your preferred speed, silence alerts, and switch units of measurement.

What’s more, you can track your progress via LifeSpan’s free Active Track app using the Bluetooth capability that syncs activity data to your iPhone or Android. To do this, all you need to do is hover your iPhone or Android over the treadmill and it updates your data.

Pros

  • Super quiet motor - The 2.25 horsepower motor is as quiet as a whisper, and the 6 impact-absorbing compression shocks are perfect for working out at the office. These components suppress mechanical noise and subdue vibration, ensuring your colleagues will not be disturbed. 
  • Bluetooth-ready -  The treadmill utilizes Onboard Intelli-Step technology that detects each step you take, so you’re kept up-to-date on your daily step count. What’s more, the integrated Intelli-Guard safety feature makes sure your treadmill is only operating when you are actively walking. You can also track and view your walking progress on your phone easily, as the data is synced effortlessly. Plus, all of this is free!
  • Makes working and exercising easy - The large, detachable desk gives you plenty of working space and enough room for all your office supplies. You also don’t need to worry about the console taking up your desk space, as it is integrated into the center of the armrest.
  • Easy to assemble - This pre-assembled treadmill is easy to set up. The only assembly required is adding the detachable desk. 
  • No visible wires - If you are using a laptop while working out any wires are kept out of sight and out of mind as they run up the inside of the desk leg. 

Cons

  • Parts only available from LifeSpan - If your treadmill experiences a fault or parts break, new parts are only available from LifeSpan. 

RUNNER UP

Merax Treadmill Folding Electric Treadmill Motorized Running Jogging Machine Easy Assembly Electric Treadmills for Home, 12 Programs with Speakers Black

The Merax Heavy-Duty Electric Folding Treadmill is a small but sturdy treadmill standing at only 42 inches tall and 56 inches long.

It is also 25 inches wide, with a belt measuring 16 inches wide and 43 inches long. This treadmill is also one of the more budget-friendly ones on the market, while still offering great features.

This quiet treadmill has 12 preset programs to choose from and can withstand a weight of 240lbs despite its small size.

There is an adjustable speed of 5-6mph and it is powered by a ‘vacuum motor’ that runs silently. This makes it one of the quietest treadmills for apartment use.

Not only does this make sure any roommates and neighbors are not disturbed, but it lets you perfectly hear any music playing from the built-in speakers. 

The rubber feet also stop the treadmill from sliding, and the grass pattern anti-slip belt design provides optimum friction for better grip and traction while you’re running.

There is also a safeguard emergency stop key so you are in control at all times. 

Like other folding treadmills, this has transportable wheels for easy storage, and if you’re worried about your treadmill taking up room, this one is small enough to just put in the corner of the room when you’re not using it. 

This treadmill also features a multi-function 5-inch LED Display that tracks your performance including speed, distance traveled, time, heart rate, and calories burned.

The audio speakers also let you listen to your favorite workout songs, but for an extra quiet workout that doesn’t disturb those around you, there is also an AUX port for headphones. However, to use an Apple lightning interface an adapter is required. 

This is one of the quietest treadmills to have these features.

Pros

  • Premium vacuum motor - The treadmill’s smooth and quiet 1.5 horsepower motor is guaranteed to reduce noise.
  • Multiple preset programs and countdown modes - Whatever your fitness goals you can achieve them with 12 preset programs and 3 countdown modes that support speeds ranging from 08.-12 km/h.
  • Easy to assemble - This lightweight treadmill is quick and easy to assemble in under 30 minutes.
  • Listen to music easily - Whether you like to listen to music out loud or with headphones, this treadmill gives you the option of both. 
  • Saves space - This compact treadmill is great for use in smaller rooms. 

 Cons

  • Smaller than most - Due to its small size it may not be suitable for you if you take big leaps while running
  • No incline - Unlike some treadmills, this one does not offer any incline options.

RUNNER UP

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The ProGear BT500 Foldable Electric Treadmill knows what you want whilst running and delivers.

It has cup-holders for your water, a shelf for your tablet or smartphone, and a 5-inch backlit LCD display that sets goals and monitors your speed, distance, pulse, calories burned, and elapsed time. 

Plus, it has built-in dual stereo speakers so you can run and listen to the motivational, workout playlist of your choice. But this treadmill definitely delivers a quiet workout too.

The 2.0 horsepower torque motor and air-piston assisted deck works utilizes ‘Quiet Drive’ to reduce noise during your workouts.

The cushioned deck with 8 shock absorbers also reduces the impact on your joints, while the 51-inch long and 17-inch wide belt size provides extra space for running.

The speed of the treadmill adjusts in increments of 1/10’s miles per hour from 0.4mph up to a maximum of 8mph with speed control and start/stop buttons on the handlebars.

There is a manual incline and you can choose from two positions, 0 and 6% incline.

Pros

  • Mechanism hand pulse sensors - Easily monitor your heart rate while you work out with these hand pulse sensors.
  • Dual stereo speakers - These dual stereo speakers are sure to make working out more fun. You can play music on your mobile device via the USB or auxiliary ports, or via a USB flash drive. 
  • 12 workout programs - Your workout will never get stuck in a rut with plenty of programs to choose from.
  • Easy to assemble -  This foldable treadmill is easy to assemble and store away, and raising and lowering the tread is smooth and effortless. 

Cons

  • No Bluetooth - While the packaging promises Bluetooth capability, this is false.
  • Slight lag - When changing speeds you may experience a slight lag.

RUNNER UP

XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Smart Treadmill, 250 LB Weight Capacity, 2.25HP Motor, Multiple Levels of Incline, 12 Preset Programs, XTERRA+ Fitness App Included with Purchase

With the XTERRA Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill, you are in control of the noise. This is due to the twin cast iron flywheels that help to deliver a smooth and quiet walking experience.

The powder-coated steel frame wide rails are not only stylish but their ‘on and off’ capability makes the treadmill easy and safe to use. This strong and durable treadmill can also withstand users up to 230lbs. 

You can monitor your progress via the built-in LCD screen that displays the elapsed time, distance walked, and speed. And, when you’re done, you can fold the treadmill down, allowing for easy storage.

This is also one of the more budget-friendly quiet treadmills on the market, perfect if you’re not looking to break the bank. 

Pros

  • Incline adjustment - It is quick and easy to adjust this treadmill with 2 position incline levels of 6 and 10 degrees.
  • Sturdy design - This compact, manual treadmill has a modern, simple, and sturdy design, and if the thought of assembly is daunting, it comes with easy-to-follow instructions for setup.
  • Easy to store - Not only is the treadmill easy to fold down and store but the transportable wheels make it easy to move around.
  • Silicone oil included - As the treadmill puts you in control of the noise level, it comes with a silicone oil you can use on the belt to make it run smoother.

Cons

  • Suitable for walking/jogging only - For a light workout such as walking or jogging this treadmill is ideal but is probably not suitable for a more intense workout.
  • Must hold on to the handlebars - Some users reported feeling a little insecure when letting go of the handlebars, especially when the incline was adjusted. As mentioned above, this is probably not suitable when wanting to get a more intense workout.

Best Quiet Treadmills for Apartments Buying Guide

You’ve probably noticed that when reviewing the above products there is a lot to consider when buying a quiet treadmill. It needs to be quiet enough so that it doesn't distract your roommates, neighbors, or colleagues (if you’re using an under-the-desk treadmill).

It also should give you a good workout and have handy features to make working out more enjoyable. 

And as we’ve seen, a quieter workout certainly doesn’t mean a lesser quality workout.

Still, you may be wondering what may be key in buying a quiet, effective treadmill and what to prioritize. Below, we’ll go over some of those key elements. Many of these also apply when looking for a quiet exercise bike to use in your apartment or even a quiet elliptical.

Running Features

A powerful motor is usually louder than a weaker one, but by considering the speed of the motor you can reduce the overall noise.

A slower pace also makes for a quieter treadmill workout, but if you’re somebody who enjoys a brisk jog over a gentle stroll then it’s worth considering a treadmill with incline options. 

Incline options mean that you can get your heart rate up and get a good workout even when going at a slower pace.

Most treadmills will have details of their incline options in the product descriptions, such as how many options they have, and the range of angles you can use.

For those of you who like to work up a sweat and prefer an intense sprint over a jog or a stroll, there are other options to make sure you’re staying safe and quiet while working out, and that is a stable base.

Getting A Stable Base

If you’re all about pushing yourself and your treadmill’s speed settings to the limit then making sure your treadmill is sturdy and secure is a must.

You don’t want a base that is going to shift and creak during your workout.

A good tip on how to make sure your treadmill is sturdy is by checking its weight.

Light builds are great for maneuvering easily and are suitable for those who want to use their treadmills for walking and light jogging, but are not suitable for heavier use. 

Rubber feet are another base feature that prevents the treadmill from skidding across the floor.

However, if your treadmill does not have rubber feet, don’t worry - these can be bought separately. 

Shock Absorption

Anti-vibration mats are handy for lessening the treadmill’s impact on the floor, so for an extra quiet treadmill shock absorption features are key.

The machine should feature additional shock absorption features that can usually be found within the belt itself. These features are sometimes referred to as ‘deck suspension.’

The suspension is a key element to a treadmill as it’s what makes the treadmill responsive, and it’s what makes you feel like you’re running on regular ground.

A treadmill should never feel hard under your feet. This can also be extremely noisy.

But a treadmill shouldn’t feel too soft under your feet either, as this contorts your body into an incorrect position, affecting your overall posture.

Size

While the size of a treadmill won’t affect the overall noise, it’s certainly important to consider when buying a treadmill for an apartment.

Many treadmills are foldable, and only require you to fold the base into an upright position when you’ve finished your workout. 

However lighter, smaller treadmills may not be suitable for intense, heavy workouts and also not suitable for taller, bigger individuals.

Smaller treadmills also lack the base we talked about that is important for intense workouts.

The most important thing to do before buying a treadmill for your apartment is to check the dimensions, and then find a suitable place in your apartment for it to go.

But you may be wondering how to find a suitable place.

A good place to start is by talking to whoever your workouts may bother, such as roommates and neighbors.

Ask if they would be happy for you to use a treadmill, and find out what rooms they spend the least time in so your treadmill won’t be an inconvenience.

Corners of rooms should be avoided as that is where noise is amplified. However, the strongest part of the floor in an apartment building is near the corner of an exterior wall and they tend to be less creaky.

If you are worried about the treadmill noise going through the walls then a good tip is to cover them with blankets or acoustic panels to dampen the noise. (Check out our tips on how to soundproof a room.)

You may not need to soundproof the entire room. It may be sufficient to just soundproof the wall between you and the room most likely to experience the disturbance.

It’s also important to make sure your treadmill is on a flat surface where it won’t wobble. Make sure your treadmill is placed entirely on a floor or carpet.

However, if you don’t have a flat floor you can slip a rubber mat beneath the treadmill to make the floor more level.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my apartment treadmill quieter?

If you already own a treadmill there are certainly ways to reduce the noise it makes without having to buy a new one. Even the quietest treadmill will still make a little noise so these tips are worth trying.

Firstly, find the source of the noise. Next time you use your treadmill listen carefully. If you notice squeaking, is it coming from the belt or the floorboards?

If you notice shifting, is the floor shifting under your feet or is the machine itself shifting? Identifying the problem as closely as you can is the first step in solving it.

If sliding is a big problem for you, anti-vibration mats may be the solution. These are rubber mats you can slide under your treadmill that not only prevent slipping but reduce noise.

Thinner mats are recommended to stop slipping, and thicker mats make for a quieter workout.

Carpets can also be a good alternative or even an addition to anti-vibration mats. Carpets absorb some of the impact noise.

But make sure the carpet you use has some kind of grip as this will prevent the treadmill from slipping and sliding.

Regular treadmill maintenance will also make a difference in how loud the treadmill is. It’s recommended that you check the treadmill belt every few months and lubricate it.

The belt needs lubrication in order to avoid friction noises that occur with heavy use. 

The manual that comes with the treadmill should tell you how often you should lubricate the belt and what products to use.

You may be thinking of using WD-40, but most manuals advise using special treadmill lubricants.

As well as making sure the belt is lubricated, all the joints should be well-lubricated too. It’s also worth tightening the bolts if you’re worried that the creaking may be due to parts coming loose.

Treadmills gather dust too and this can reduce lubrication and increase treadmill noise. If you've got a quiet air compressor then use that to blow the dust out of the moving parts.

A simple way to achieve a quiet workout however is by adjusting your pace. Soft jogging or walking at an incline is a great way to get in an effective, quiet workout. 

It’s also worth examining how you’re running. For example, you shouldn’t be making slapping noises when you run, or hitting the treadmill with your heel.

Instead, aim at the ground with the middle of your foot. Also, always wear proper footwear when using your treadmill.

Lastly, the sound of the motor may also be contributing to the noise. This can be remedied, however, by investing in a motorless treadmill. Check out our tips on how to make a treadmill quieter for more detail.

Are treadmills too loud for an apartment?

By investing in one of the quiet treadmills listed, or by making the adjustments above it is possible to use a treadmill quietly without disturbing your neighbors or roommates.

However, there are other cardio exercises you can do that make minimal to no noise. One example is an exercise bicycle as they don’t cause the floor to shake.

Even hanging some soundproof curtains will reduce the treadmill noise.

How long do treadmills last?

Treadmills usually last 7 to 12 years, and the average life expectancy for a treadmill is 10 years. With proper care, however, some treadmills will exceed that average.

But taking good care of your treadmill is key, and dust can be a major problem. Use a dry cloth once a week to wipe up any dust between the belt and the deck.

Also, make sure the floor and area around the treadmill are free from dust too. 

What’s the best belt size for a treadmill?

Belt sizes have expanded over time to accommodate the long strides and natural side-to-side movement of runners. Twenty-inch belts are becoming more common, and no belt should be narrower than 17-18 inches. 

Can I have a treadmill in an apartment?

Whether you can have a treadmill in an apartment will depend on a few things.

Check your lease agreement or contact your landlord if your lease is unclear, to confirm you are allowed a treadmill in your apartment.

Space is also important to consider. Residential treadmills are usually smaller than ones you would find in the gym, but measure and plan ahead.

You also need to make sure your electrical systems can handle the pressure of using a treadmill. Most residential treadmill models can be used with a standard 120V grounded, dedicated outlet.

It’s also useful to have a surge protector to help prevent damage to the machine. Most manufacturers also advise unplugging the treadmill after use. 

You should also consider whether a treadmill would be easy to actually get into your apartment. Assembly is half the battle!

Take into consideration the weight of the treadmill, the difficulties that could be involved in getting it up a flight of stairs, if you have a large enough elevator, and the widths of doors.

But as we have discussed, the most important thing to consider is those around you.

Make sure your neighbors are happy for you to have a treadmill, and if noise is going to be an issue then it’s definitely worth investing in a quiet treadmill.