What is the better budget-friendly treadmill, NordicTrack T 6.5 S vs. Horizon T101? Our general review will help to make a quick comparison between these two.
With a tight budget, you can still own a treadmill with features that can satisfy basic training requirements. After researching the market, we pick the two most common treadmills under $1,000. They are Nordictrack T 6.5 S treadmill and Horizon T101 treadmill.
So. which will be suitable for your use?
To have the final answer, let’s get started for reviews!
Contents
NordicTrack treadmill T 6.5 S review
NordicTrack T 6.5 S is convenient for entry-level users in the home gym in a foldable frame. Its drive system and compact size create an ideal machine for light and moderate training, not the hardcore one.
NordicTrack treadmill T 6.5 S review
This model highlights a 2.6 CHP motor, a high-quality cushioning system, and a wide range of workout programs.
Horizon T101 treadmill review
Like the NordicTrack treadmill above, Horizon T101 is also a common option for beginners. The model can do its best for both light and moderate training and walking and jogging routines.
Horizon T101
The brand builds this treadmill with a compact form, numerous workout programs, and a competitive warranty term. It is not only good for the money but also useful for home training.
NordicTrack T 6.5 S vs. Horizon T101: Which one is better?
The decision of which treadmill to choose, Nordictrack T 6.5 S or Horizon T101, depends on some elements. In this comparison, we plan to focus on price, design, drive system, console, workout programs, running area, and warranty.
Price
When it comes to the price, there is almost no difference between NordicTrack T 6.5 S and Horizon T101. They are treadmills under $1,000, a common price range for cheaper options on the market.
The low price does not mean low quality. These products still can satisfy users’ demand for a convenient and effective home gym with the treadmill.
- Comparison: Similarity
Design
Both NordicTrack T 6.5 S and Horizon T101 are foldable treadmills that can handle users weighing up to 300 lbs. Honestly, this weight capacity is an acceptable level. However, many other treadmills allow more than 400 lbs.
Regardless of foldability and weight capacity, Horizon T101 is likely to take advantage over NordicTrack T 6.5 S thanks to its compact design. The treadmill is 70″ long, 34″ wide, and 55″ high while the other gets its dimension of 67.5″ L x 35.75″ W x 73″ H.
NordicTrack brand applies the SpaceSaver® design for the T 6.5 S model. The technology adds more effectiveness in easy storage and movement. However, we still appreciate Horizon Fitness T101 without this point because users tend to place the machine in a fixed position.
- Comparison: Horizon T101 wins
Drive system
Horizon T101 runs on a 2.5 HP motor with speeds ranging from 0 to 10 mph. NordicTrack T 6.5 S’s drive system is nearly the same with a 2.6 CHP motor for 0 – 10 mph speed.
These motors are not suitable for hardcore training. So, if you are a serious runner, we suggest searching for other powerful options. With the weak motors like these, the treadmills will support well for walking and jogging instead.
Nevertheless, of the CHP motor, NordicTrack 6.5 S gets a bonus point. This motor type is better for continuous usage for the long term.
- Comparison: NordicTrack T 6.5 S wins
Console
T101 treadmill features a user-friendly console. It has a gray display with three data windows. Also, there is a LED lighting to notify changes during the training program. Moreover, a cooling fan combining with an updated Bluetooth speaker system helps to keep you comfortable all the time.
As for NordicTrack treadmill T 6.5 S, the treadmill operates without the cooling fan. Besides, unlike NordicTrack T 6.5 Si, this model does not include direct iFit integration. Its 5″ screen gives a basic display in comparison with other models of the brand.
- Comparison: Similarity
Workout programs
The more workout programs a treadmill can offer, the more challenging and exciting you will get with your training. The same speed (0 – 10 mph) and incline (0 – 10%) range makes NordicTrack T 6.5 S and Horizon T101 available with a specific number of workout programs.
With NordicTrack 6.5 S treadmill, you get a chance of challenging yourself in 20 different workout routines. At a higher level, the Horizon T101 treadmill offers 30 onboard programs in total.
- Comparison: Horizon T101 wins
Running area
A short track is a disadvantage regarding the running area of these treadmills. The dimension gets only 20″ x 55″, which is not ideal for tall users at all.
For the cushioning, there is a small difference. Horizon Fitness T101 treadmill owns a unique 3-zone Variable Response Cushioning system while NordicTrack treadmill uses the FlexSelect Cushioning.
The variable Response Cushioning system divides the tread belt into three zones, including impact zone, transition zone, and push-off zone. They ensure the softer and firmer cushioning.
The FlexSelect Cushioning system does a function or reduces impacts. While you walk or jog on the treadmill, it will soften stress on joints to prevent injuries after training.
- Comparison: Similarity
Warranty
The horizon always offers its customers good deals for warranty. Like other treadmills of this brand, Horizon T101 is also under a respectable warranty. It is the lifetime coverage for both the frame and motor of the machine. For parts and labor, the warranty is one year.
Despite a shorter-term, NordicTrack T 6.5 S’s warranty is as competitive as Horizon T101. The brand gives ten years, two years, and one year for frame, parts, and labor.
- Comparison: Horizon T101
Final thought
NordicTrack T 6.5 S and Horizon T101 are stars that you should never miss at the low-cost range.
However, it is not a good idea to choose both of them for only one home gym. So, from our point of view, we highly recommend the T101 model. Based on the Horizon T101 review, you can see that it has a better design, workout programs, and warranty than the one of NordicTrack T 6.5 S.
