Treadmills differ in several ways. Depending on the demands and requirements of the training, these are more or less decisive in the purchase decision. The maximum weight is a hard limit and should definitely be taken into account. More robust (and heavier) machines can also bear more weight on the running surface - but they are not quite as easy to move and need their own space. Treadmills are powered by the motors inside. As a rule, the long-lasting AC motors are the better choice, but they are also much more expensive. Treadmills in studio quality usually use these AC motors, devices for beginners often use direct current. For regular home use, a DC motor is also more than acceptable. The decisive factor for mileage is the horsepower rating anyway. Here, too, you should realistically assess how much performance I really need before buying. The running surface is also a decisive purchase criterion, because it must ultimately offer enough space for the stride length. Longer and faster runners take longer strides and need a correspondingly larger running surface (150 x 50 cm and up). The width is also crucial so as not to make the run too narrow, which can creep in as an unnatural running style. Larger is safer and more comfortable here, but of course requires more space. Many treadmills also offer built-in cushioning. This cushions the otherwise hard tread somewhat and has two effects: Running is more like walking on a forest or field path than on asphalt and the noise level is somewhat reduced. However, a treadmill is never completely silent, as every step triggers a certain vibration. Finally, the electronics also play an important role for many runners when buying a treadmill. Setting different programmes, connecting a smartphone or smartwatch and a large display are directly at the interface between functionality and comfort. A certain variety of programmes makes running more exciting and motivating in the long term.

A good treadmill for home use has long been available for well under 1,000 euros. Seasonal bargains and discontinued models are ideal for beginners and ambitious athletes alike. However, you often have to make concessions in terms of running performance, tread length and additional electronic functions. In the upper price ranges, prices between 2,000 and 3,000 euros are common and by no means the upper limit. For this, runners get more robust workmanship, more cushioning and many additional functions.

In order to be able to carry out a healthy and varied running workout at home, a treadmill needs an appropriate motor power. Values are given in peak and continuous power, whereby the continuous power is much more meaningful - because the continuous power indicates how much speed a treadmill can provide over the entire unit. Absolute values are difficult to give as a recommendation, as demands, weight and training level differ greatly depending on the runner. However, a treadmill should have at least 2 hp, preferably 3 hp motor power.