A space-saver treadmill allows you to stick to your cardiovascular routine even if you have a smaller space at home or in the office. You don’t have to halt your fitness routine if you don’t have enough room. And if you’re looking for such with sufficient functionality at a decent price, Sole and Nordictrack are the brands you should be looking at.
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So, let’s take a look at these two units, the Sole F80 and Nordictrack 1750. Let’s see which compact treadmills will suit your needs the best.
Treadmills | Dimensions | Speed range | Weight capacity | Max incline | Monitor size | Workout programs | Touch screen console | Running Surface |
Sole F80 | 82″ x 37″ x 57″ | 0-12 mph | 350 lbs | 15% | 9″ | 10 | no | 60″ x 20″ |
NordicTrack 1750 | 80″ x 38″ x 65″ | 0-12 mph | 300 lbs | 15% | 14” | 56+ | yes | 60″ x 20” |
F80 is a basic yet durable treadmill
The downside of compact treadmills is they seem to be fragile and unstable units. These treadmills can easily be folded and the constant opening and closing mechanisms can make the unit more feeble. As time goes by, these treadmills will not be able to hold themselves well enough. And we are quite happy to see the F80 veering away from this stereotype.
It can easily be stowed away when not in use. But every time you set the treadmill up for use, it feels very stable. With the 275-weight capacity, it can accommodate larger users. The components of this treadmill are commercial grade, so you can also use it for running as well. That’s quite a sweet deal for treadmills of its price points.
Also, it has a generous amount of storage space located all over the unit. You can have your water bottle and your phone at hand whenever you take a run or walk. So if you’re looking for a treadmill that offers lots of compartments, then this is one to look out for.
But here’s what you should take into consideration. Notice we mentioned the term basic above? The console is straightforward. It also lacks touchscreen functionality. But albeit being a basic unit, you still have a handful of training options, and you can still stream content from your gadgets. It also has Bluetooth speakers, so you will be able to listen to your favorite music and play your workout jam as you please.
The downside of this basic treadmill
Aside from lacking a touchscreen function, the F80 does not have a decline function. So not all runners and gym goers will be able to find this a suitable fit for their running programs.
Decline treadmills are king when it comes to enhancing overall strength and muscular endurance. But while the Sole lacks this functionality, you may still be able to work on your fitness programs with the 10 preset training functions available on the unit. The preset programs are easy to fiddle through. You’ll find that it is quite similar to what you often see in commercial treadmills.
Also, the cushioning of the walking surface is pretty firm underfoot. The Sole F80 is notorious for its firm cushioning. So not all runners will find this a comfortable treadmill. So while it can be a great fit for most runners, those with joint and knee issues may find discomfort when running or even walking on this treadmill.
Also, you’ll notice that the fan lacks power. It only has one setting and it’s not that efficient in cooling off the entire unit.
The Sole F80 is reliable
This unit is a treadmill with quite a strong base and components. It feels sturdy and stable. That’s why even larger users can find this a reliable treadmill.
But you have to live with its shortcomings. The console is quite small, but it does have a decent number of functionalities that can still help your amp up your fitness routines. There are not any fancy features, but it can be enough for those who just want reliable treadmills that can help them progress conservatively with their routines.
It’s also a straightforward treadmill, so there aren’t any learning curves. But do keep in mind what we have mentioned earlier.
NordicTrack 1750 is a more updated treadmill
The 1750 is a more modern treadmill with more updated functionalities. It’s known for its immersive running experience with integrated features. So if you tend to get easily bored with basic units, then this will be a more viable option for you. It has the same incline, dimensions, and speed range as the more basic F80. But it has fewer muscles since the weight capacity is at 300 lbs. It still is a reliable treadmill though, it’s just that the F80 is a more heavy-duty one.
Let’s see some of the added features that you can enjoy with a more updated unit.
One, it has a decline function. The F80 lacks this one. This is a nice feature for those looking to add more variety to their running programs. Decline settings can help you further increase your endurance and overall strength. The 1750 offers a 3% decline. Two, unlike the F80 this comes with a subscription that makes up for the more immersive running experience. The unit comes with a 30-day membership trial with each purchase. But of course, after that, you have to shoulder the expenses yourself, which is another thing to consider when it comes to cost.
Three, the LCD is quite large compared to the smaller 9’ screen of the F80. You get to enjoy more visibility with the 14 “LCD of the 1750. This can mean a lot for those people who are more visual.
Fourth, the running pad of the 1750 is softer. The F80 is rather notorious for its very firm running pad. So those with knee issues will be able to walk and run without any worries in 1750.
A choice between a basic or a more upgraded treadmill
Essentially, choosing between the F80 and 1750 boils down to this- it’s either you want a treadmill with basic functions or one with more upgraded features.
Aesthetic-wise, the 1750 looks sleeker and has a more modern silhouette. In terms of the overall appearance and the console, the 1750 definitely shines through.
But in terms of performance, it depends on what your priority is. Both use a 3.5 HP motor, with 0-12 mph speed options and up to 15% incline settings. In terms of motor power, they’re similar and can operate quietly. Both offer good overall running except that the NordicTrack 1750 has a decline feature of up to -3%. This helps you gain more muscles in your legs and thighs.
Both also have safety rails and wheels, which are constructed well and feel very stable. Both have the same dimension of the running path, so they can be comfortably used by taller folks. Though the cushion of the 1750 is more forgiving than the very firm cushion of the f80
F80 has simple programming while the 1750 has more variation but requires a subscription. So though it offers a more immersive experience, you have to shell out extra dollars for the monthly subs.
We always go for the more modern and upgraded treadmill right?
This seems to be the more common route when choosing between a basic and a more modern treadmill, especially if they have almost the same price points. Such is the case with the Sle F80 and NordicTrack 1750.
But the burden of having to pay monthly subs to get the full immersive experience of the 1750 can be too much for some people. So while this feature is a plus and can amp up your running experience, much has to be considered.