Commercial X32i Incline treadmill vs. Peloton Tread+
The Tread+ vs. Nordictrack X32i
Which Treadmill is Best for You?
The Tread/Tread+ from Peloton and the NordicTrack Commercial X32i are high-end, powerful treadmill options to add to your home gym, but completely different in their approach and experience.
There is no question that for the dedicated runner who wants to spend a lot of time on a treadmill, the Peloton Tread+ offers training workouts that will make them a better, more efficient competitive runner who wants to achieve personal bests in their race ambitions. The same can be said for the Nordictrack incline treadmill series.
However, if one or more of your goals is for weight loss, to run, to walk/trek/hike your way to fitness, or to increase your running technique, skills, stamina, and endurance, the Nordictrack X32i and the X22i model are equally a Brillant if not better option.
OUR TAKE
In comparing these two outstanding brand models, what stood out for us was the range, quality, and number of workout options designed specifically for the Nordictrack incline treadmills and the degree of integration with the X32i and X22i treadmills from the running deck through to the HD touchscreen.
The NordicTrack X32i Incline Treadmill uniquely adds the Power of the incline with its incredible Zero to 40% running deck incline elevation, allowing you to burn multiple times the calories during the same period. For instance, our experience found when we used either the X22i or X32i incline treadmill model for an intense 20-minute hike, we would burn 300 to 450 calories in a session, depending on the average steepness of grade used.
INTERACTIVE AUTO-ADJUSTING FEATURE
One feature we regularly are asked, which makes the Commercial X32i model stand out, “Can the Peloton Tread dynamically adjust the running deck’s incline elevation?" — Initially, the answer was NO however, Peloton later partially added this ability to the Tread model (Ironically licensing the technology from Nordictrack) but for upward incline ability only, and it does not support a downward slope for downhill running.
A notable point for the dynamic incline with the Peloton Tread is that runners have to manually decline the running deck after elevating it to bring it down. So, the correct answer is yes and no. The Peloton Tread model does not 100% dynamically adjust the incline to sync with a studio class or match terrain during destination runs, walks, and hikes, like the Nordictrack X32i or X22i incline treadmill models can.
One of the goals of this review is to give the reader a thorough understanding of the NordicTrack Commercial X32i incline treadmill, its capabilities, and why we recommend it as an excellent incline treadmill along with Peloton Tread+.
Overall, when balancing these two exceptional treadmills in making the right choice, we found understanding and establishing your goals are key factors to help reach the best purchase decision. In this comparison review we discuss and highlight key features and differences between these two awesome treadmills.
To help make that maybe.yes.no decision we cover — The Experience, the Equipment, the Trainers, the Price, and our Recommendations and conclude with a quick Comparison Chart.
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The experience
The equipment
Trainers
Price
Recommendation
Comparison Chart
Peloton Recall Update
PELOTON TREAD+ RECALL UPDATES:
On May 5th, 2021, the Peloton Tread+ was recalled and made unavailable for sale.
Latest Recall UPDATE: December 2023
Good news for Peloton. Per our latest reporting, the Peloton Tread+ is now available again to Pre-Order for the holiday/New Year season. Follow these links for more detail on Recall Updates below and Updated Reviewer Notes.
As a recall anecdote, many Peloton Tread+ owners love their Tread+ treadmills and decided to keep them. One recommended solution had been to secure the Tread+ in a locked space to prevent children or pets’ access. Now for earlier Tread owners Peloton is offering a preventative, free rear guard with free professional in-home installation. Newer Tread units ship with this designed-in.
Trust Our Fitness Equipment Review
For this Treadmill Comparison we took into consideration our experience with other treadmills like, the Proform Pro 9000, NordicTrack 1750, NordicTrack X22i, and Peloton Tread.
maybeyesno has tested and published exercise equipment reviews for over ten years. Our review team understands what makes good fitness equipment, — including indoor bikes, rowers, strength equipment, and treadmills. If it’s good, it’s good — if it’s bad — then it’s bad, we will tell you.
We get hands-on with gear and discuss overall design, tech, and function, including the feel, price, drilling down on components such as the motor, the screen display, subscription content (if applicable), running deck, adjustment features, ease of use, noise levels, warranty and durability.
Based on extensive use and testing, we discuss, summarize, and compare the differences to help you determine which treadmill is the better one for you. Let’s get going.
PELOTON TREAD+
Studio Classes
As with the Nordictrack X32i, you can stream classes right to the Peloton Tread+. Studio classes on the Tread+ have two options, pre-recorded on-demand and Live classes that follow Peloton’s formula similar to its Spin bike workouts. Music plays a major role in the experience and feel of each class – no two are alike as trainers select their preferred music theme and song collection for each session. There is definitely a competitive vibe with the leaderboard presented on screen to allow you can see where you stand compared to others live — or if you are taking an on-demand session, compare your performance to people who previously ran the same workout. Fellow runners will “High Five” you during live classes plus trainers call out individuals to motivate and provide encouragement which all goes to create a competitive atmosphere & energized experience.
The company celebrates milestones like your 100th workout with virtual badges to achieve as you amass more runs and hit different milestones. The group energy can seriously help you push harder and achieve personal bests. Dedicated Tread+ owners document record weight loss and report an invigorated feeling through the class energy.
Powered by a smooth, easy-to-use user interface, the Tread+ library has hundreds of on-demand classes to select from which can be filtered by music theme, music artist, trainer, length, (5-minute, 10-minute 20-minute, 45-minute, and 60 minutes) type (interval, beginner, Challenge, etc.) — live event sessions are scheduled throughout the month. Unlike the Peloton Spin bike, the number of daily Treadmill classes is more sporadic and tends to be in the early evening or morning. There is also a range of scenic runs to select from, but they are not trainer-led.
NORDICTRACK X32i
The Nordictrack Commercial X32i is powered by iFit Interactive personal training platform with workout options that are best categorized into four types: Studio classes, Road Races, Google Maps, and Trainer Led Destination Runs. Loads of workout options to pick from and sessions that vary by trainer, length, and type, with new classes and content constantly added.
WORKOUT EXPERIENCES
iFit streams direct to your X32i treadmill with thousands of options; select a hike in Switzerland, run the Moroccan desert series or take a studio class with your preferred iFit trainer
Studio Classes
X32i Incline Treadmill has a more spacious deck to run on - 2 inches wider than the Peloton Tread+
Studio classes are group sessions that focus on interval training. These are not music experiences but are led by outstanding trainers and running specialists that work hard to keep you motivated and challenged. They push, inspire and maintain the conversation as you walk or run along with them. There are some classes where in segments of a class you use weights and may get off the treadmill for more total body workout exercises. You definitely sense the energy of the group, but it also feels like it is a one-on-one with a personal instructor with a cool vibe while getting a workout in at home!
Road Races
The second type is very similar to a road race. You walk or run as your trainer guides you along the route that covers a road trip. There are varying hills, inclines, declines and sprints. You can select the length and difficulty. Your trainer is working alongside — gives you a sense like you are running an outside location.
Run with your Trainer Road Races. Run 10 of the most popular marathons throughout the world. Take your training to the next level or run your favorite segment! Strengthen your legs and endurance on the X32i Incline Treadmill with 6 uphill climbs taking the iFit Hill Blaster Training Program
Google Maps Routes
Next a very popular option allows you to create and map routes you actually run outside or create from well-known events like the New York marathon or your own local 5k. These maps can be saved building up in your own library and can be as easy or difficult as you wish. Many users in the iFit community save running routes on the iFit community board or on Facebook. No trainer is involved so this is more of a DYI on your own exercise. For the competitor in you, you can challenge other iFit members to run along or run the route when they can. Later sharing and comparing results!
With iFit, create your own routes with Google Maps and work out anywhere in the world
Trainer-Led Destination Runs
Finally, the fourth type of iFit workout option are the Interactive Trainer-Led Destination walks, runs or hikes. Select workout options at interesting locations across a wide variety of terrains and challenges that take you on travels all over the world, including the US. Your iFit trainer leads you through inclines, intensity variations and declines while dropping interesting points about the location you’re running, walking or hiking through. It is a great aspect to your iFit experience to get a serious workout in while at the same time being, challenged, motivated, entertained. There are loads of places to choose from such as Australia, Iceland, Switzerland, Italy, Peru, Patagonia, even Antarctica. Train in the Balkans, run the Grand Canyon or along the Adriatic Sea, through India, or trek up Mount Kilimanjaro. The scenic backgrounds are stunning and keep you engaged during the workout and with your trainer. Each trainer brings their own individuality and training style to a session.
Also, to note that iFit is constantly filming new challenges, series and themes for classes at new locales, which is what makes iFit and the Commercial X32i treadmill standout as they are always adding content variety to make it interesting.
Live Event workouts are available on the Nordictrack X32i treadmill with iFit trainers automatically adjusting incline, decline and speed. There is beginner to advanced walks and runs to meet everyone’s level of fitness.
Our RECOMMENDED Experience Choice
The edge in experience between the two options is really hard to give because the two are so different. If you want run options beyond studio classes, go with the Nordictrack X32i powered by iFit – if you primarily are looking for music themed technical running classes, go with the Tread+.
2. TREADMILL EQUIPMENT
PELOTON TREAD+
Peloton Tread+ Treadmill with its 32” touchscreen has a top speed of 12.5 mph and top incline of 15%
The Peloton Tread+ treadmill has a new modern design with a sleek minimalist look. The deck is composed of a series of thick rubber slats and comes with a crisp 32” touchscreen console display with a 20-watt integrated soundbar below and an easy-to-use user interface. The speed and incline controls have a novel approach for a treadmill, adjusted by slight turns of a knob on each side of you. The idea being to make it quicker and easier for the runner to make adjustments without disrupting stride or pace. We found the deck responds smartly but we are a little concerned about durability as the motor is only 2.0 HP, which does seem somewhat under-powered for a hi-end treadmill compared to the X32i incline Treadmill’s motor which is 4.25 CHP —see our Treadmill Buying Guide comments on treadmill motors and durability. (We mention this because it is a 1st generation treadmill for Peloton, so there is a question of how long this machine lasts? remains open) another observation is that the motor is extremely loud compared to the Nordictrack Commercial X32i. If you’re using the speakers you have to crank the volume way up, at least to 80%.
THE TREAD+’s UNIQUE SPEED & INCLINE ADJUSTMENT CONTROL KNOBS ON EACH SIDE
Speed-Incline: The Peloton Tread+ has a 15% incline and speed up to 12.5 mph.
TREAD+ CONSOLE TRAY
There is a translucent tray that provides a nice space to puts things on with 2 integrated water bottle holders on each side. This tray is removable to easily clean, but due to a lot of excessive console vibration when in use, we chose not to use it —way too much distraction caused by items rattling. Vibration does seem to be an issue for the screen as well and has not gone unnoticed by other users.
The Peloton Tread+ treadmill offers a FREE-MODE by simply pressing a button. Essentially this puts the deck in an un-powered mode where it dis-engages from the motor and allows the user to drive the slat belt on their own.
Tread+ Leader-Board
RANKED BY KILO-JOULES OUTPUT
For the competitive types you have a real-time leaderboard to monitor how well you’re doing during live classes, or you can see your standings compared to others who have also completed the same on-demand class. All your stats are tracked, and you can easily review your progress over time by the numbers and by some sharp looking graphs and charts.
The Tread+ Warranty breaks-out out as follows:
- Frame, Motor and walking belt: 5 years
- Screen: 1 year
- Parts: 1 year
- Labor: 1 year
Extended warranty pricing for an additional 12 months of coverage is $270; for an additional 27 months of coverage add $325. All parts and labor for covered repairs are included in the extended coverage options.
Monthly Membership (Content): $44/month All Access
NORDICTRACK X32i Treadmill
If your serious about training or getting in shape you cannot go wrong with an X32i Commercial Incline Treadmill. This highly acclaimed treadmill will not disappoint with iFit you'll have access to an enormous selection of iFit studio and trainer-led destination classes streamed right to its 32-inch HD touchscreen. For 2021 the X32i touchscreen has been updated to include a cooling processor that is super-fast and seriously improves the graphics performance. The X32i has faster WiFi receptions and includes up to 5 adult profiles that work across multiple machines. Overall, the newer Nordictrack X32i is quieter, faster, better. The new Quiet Drive Incline Technology is very quiet and fast! It realistically mirrors the terrain you are working out in.
With that said the Nordictrack X32i is very different from the Peloton Tread+ treadmill in a few key areas.
Nordictrack X32i Incline Treadmill with wide 32-inch touchscreen, 22-inch width spacious deck
THE POWER OF THE INCLINE
Leverage the Power of the Incline with the X32i Incline Treadmill. Even walking every day at an incline will allow you to burn calories, lose weight and increase fitness
The Nordictrack X32i is a great treadmill but is also called an Incline Trainer for a good reason. First, you get the ‘power of the incline’ where you can burn up to five times the calories in same amount of time. The Deck can elevate from 0 to 40% or decline to a negative -6%. Exercising at an incline always burns more calories, builds hip, hamstring and calf strength, but with a -6% decline you can also simulate downhill terrains. As you run downhill your body falls forward. This works the glutes and hamstrings with the quads doing most of the work controlling momentum on the downhill portion.
The Power of the Incline with an X32i incline Treadmill. Burn more calories walking at an incline, taking a running iFit studio class or run with trainers at destinations across the globe
Instead of using a knob control to make quick changes to incline and speed the Nordictrack X32i has well positioned large one-touch buttons to use for selecting speed or incline you wish to workout at. While maybe not as novel as the knob concept we found pressing a simple one-touch button approach was still was just as quick and a little more precise when it comes to making a more accurate selection.
X32i incline Treadmill. Run with iFit trainer, Hannah Eden, as she takes on Iceland’s entire 828-mile Ring Road. Run the whole way or select segments and navigate this unique terrain with her
| Feature | Edge goes to | 32" | 22" |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen | X32i 10-inches wider | 32" | 22" |
| SideButtons | For Quick adjustment | ✔ | ✔ |
| Workouts | Both iFit Enabled | ✔ | ✔ |
| Price | 22-inch is $1,000 less | ✔ | |
| Deck Size | shorter on X22i ¹ | 65" | 60" |
| Footprint | X32i length 6.5" longer | ✔ | |
| Motor | Both powerful motors ² | 4.25 | 4.0 |
| Roller Size | 2.5” Precision | ✔ | ✔ |
| User Weight | Both Support 300 lbs | ✔ | ✔ |
NOTE: Because the X32i treadmill motor is not postioned in the front allows the running belt to be 5-inches longer
¹ the running deck suitable to a long stride being 22" x 60"for the X22i model and 65-inches on the X32i model.
² Measured as CHP. Stands for Continuous Horse Power. A bigger CHP is better for durability, multiple user
situations, for longer daily workouts over 40 minutes with intense running. There are also dualincline/decline motors.
X22i vs. x32i 7 Differences Review
Powered by iFit you can use your touchscreen to access a huge range of elite trainer-led destination runs (taking you to locations all over the globe), as well as live event and on-demand studio classes, on and off the treadmill. But what makes it really interesting is the interactive training aspect — the X32i’s incline, decline and speed can dynamically adjust to automatically sync to the terrain you and your trainer encounter and this adds a whole another dimension to your workouts. All your training history and statistics accumulate in your profile which are nicely presented to review activity and progress.
Nordictrack includes the first month of iFit membership with your X32i Treadmill which Peloton does not. The X32i iFit APP operates on Android 9.0+ OS but also can be used with Apple TV, and iPad or nearly any other smart device.
TOTAL BODYWORKOUT OPTIONS
The NordicTrack X32i Incline Treadmill has a sled push bar and gripes for using manual mode for a series of body blasting workouts, your quads will burn! This option also on is on the X22i model
You also can get a full body exercise on X32i treadmill with the ability to switch to manual mode and conduct a simulated sled-push workout. This kind of workout helps you develop good running mechanics and builds acceleration power. Your quads and hamstrings will definitely feel it! This is similar to the Free-mode option on the Peloton Tread+ but with the Nordictrack X32i you get the two set of bars, one for the push series of exercises and one for the sled workout, which makes this option more effective on the X32i over just the single Tread’s bar.
Sled Push Training Options on the X32i Incline Treadmill using Free Mode is also available on the X22i incline model
If your goal is to get fit, stay fit, or lose weight, this incline treadmill is a piece of exercise equipment you should seriously consider. The incline options on this treadmill are a calorie burning feature to help you reach your fitness goals quicker. Running or simply walking up hill can seriously torch more calories in less time. The Reflex Cushioning on the X32i deck absorbs impact, protecting your joints and reducing post-workout pain.
The uphill and downhill incline and decline will work all your muscles plus adds complete body workouts with the sled push options.
The X32i Warranty breaks-out out as follows:
- Frame: 10 years
- Screen: 2 years
- Parts: 2 years
- Labor: 1 year
Extended warranty pricing for an additional 36 months of coverage is $509.99 or you can choose the 36-month maintenance service plan, which includes 36 months of extended warranty, plus a service maintenance visit once every year for $579. All parts and labor for covered repairs are included in the extended coverage.
Monthly Membership (iFit Content): First Month included (a $39 in value) then $39/month for a family membership or $12 per month for Individual subscription.
Our RECOMMENDED Treadmill Choice
If you are looking for pure studio running class workouts, the Peloton Tread+ is a great choice. But if you're looking for much more variety and great intensity for your running, and weight loss the Nordictrack X32i is a better choice and offers runners, walkers and hikers real world simulation with its 40% incline and -6% decline — plus the extensive road races, live event workouts, mountain and trail runs and walking trainer-led classes.
For those looking for value from your fitness equipment purchase the X32i which combines cardio with strength building and the Sled Push add-on expands your workout strength building options. Additionally, month one of iFit membership is included (a $39 value) — with the X32i treadmill you have access to a wider library of destination runs, walks and hikes that are Trainer-led, with streamed studio classes as well —plus, Google map options allowing you to fit in a real road training session on your schedule. The actual equipment cost for the X32i treadmill is a lot less and comes with a better warranty and option to add a service plan.
Finally, the feature that made NordicTrack X32i standout over Peloton is Live Control features like AutoAdjust and SmartAdjust, that enable the ability for iFit trainers to dynamically adjust incline, speed and resistance of your equipment to sync with a studio class or the terrain you are running, walking or hiking through, during a destination workout.
As mentioned in the starting overview, a frequent question by readers is, “does Peloton automatically adjust incline resistance or speed?” — the answer was no, not until recently, when the technology was ironically licensed from Nordictrack— Peloton does now offer this option on the Tread, it remains to be seen if this feature will be activated for the Tread+ once available for sale again in late 2023.
That said, it works on the Peloton Tread for upward incline only, and not downhill slope running or hiking. Another point to note on automatic incline with the Peloton Tread is that runners have to manually decline the running deck after it has been elevated to bring it down to a level or lower elevation.
Run the world side by side with your own iFit trainer on the Commercial X32i incline treadmill shown at a high 40% incline and without an incline
ADOPT THE POWER of the incline —
In addition, the Nordictrack X32i excels for those looking to leverage the power of the incline with its massive 40% gradient ascent. Exercising at an incline always burns more calories, even while walking at a gradient offers multiple times the calorie burn, so you can crush your goals with the X32i. Plus the Commercial X32i has a -6% decline which is also effective for road/trail simulation.
If you are looking to use your treadmill for weight loss or are looking to run, walk, trek/hike to get or stay in shape, the Commercial X32i has a lot more classes and options. You will be unlikely to get bored with the huge variety of iFit destination trainer-led runs, walks and hiking content.
The Commercial X32i is the connected-fitness treadmill you need to hit those fitness goals! iFit trainers are not only engaging but motivate and encourage you along — the destinations selected are a captivating backdrop and make your workouts interesting, encouraging you to look forward to your next one. You will find yourself scheduling two sessions a day and wanting more. The X32i treadmill is challenge + success.
““iFit is the exercise equivalent of Netflix? I have to resist the tendency to want to “binge” on a series. My body would hate me! But I wake up every morning excited for the next episode— or if I get off early from work, coming home to do one.””
Tread+ Studio Class led by instructor Rebecca Kennedy bootcamp instructor, a Nike master trainer
Taking place entirely on the Tread+, running classes include beginner and low-intensity runs, hills, speed, race prep, heart rate zone runs and music-driven fun runs. The Peloton Tread+ treadmill instructors are all fitness professionals.
Each has experience as a fitness trainer IRL.¹ The focus of the Peloton instructor is motivation, community, a little competition, and music themes. The run classes entertain with the music selection, and they discuss techniques (Zone and Power) to help you achieve your personal best. The community has an active Facebook group for off-the-Tread engagement. And the company offers special events and special theme runs. The Turkey Trot last year had over 14,000 runners taking part streamed live from their NYC studio.
¹ in real life
Peloton Tread+ Treadmill Classes are easily selected off the screen
NORDICTRACK TRAINERS
iFit trainers are all successful personal trainers and running champions. The iFit trainers lead all the destination, mountain, trail and road runs as well as off the treadmill boot camps, stretching, and strength training. The sessions are not depended on music but are trainer-led runs. In effect it feels like a personal trainer is running next to you encouraging you and pushing you to hit your goals. Runs, walks and hikes are entertaining with scenic views from stunningly beautiful locations — as they literally take you on fitness journeys and workouts to destinations across the globe and in a studio class setting.
It’s not every day you run by an elephant in the wild -but Giddy Akande did in Thailand. iFit Destination Workouts use One-Take live filming so what they encounter along the way usually makes it into your workout at home!
““ I wanted a hiking simulator, and that’s what the NT X32i and iFit have provided. On my X32i I have hiked the Grand Canyon from my home and so many other places. They provide something no other competitor does.” ”
X32i studio classes are all about challenging you to a great workout. There are challenge series and extensive hiking and/or walking options. There are also 5K and marathon training series. For example, you can run the actual Boston marathon route over a number of days as you train for road races you have scheduled with an iFit trainer (who has actually run the Boston Marathon) leading you through its challenges. Alternatively, you can pick to Run a marathon leg from numerous cities around the world like London, Washington, D.C. to Tokyo, Japan. You’ll pass by notable landscapes, famous monuments, lakeside trails, and through magnificent vistas.
OUR RECOMMENDED TRAINERS
We have taken over 150 iFit combined workouts with both Peloton and Nordictrack. If you are looking for a group experience to keep you motivated and challenged, go with the Peloton Tread+. If you enjoy music while you work out and like themes and community engagement, the Tread+ is a good option for you.
If you run outdoors during good weather and want to stay fit / train during winter months, choose the Nordictrack X32i Incline Treadmill. If you are more into mountains, treks, trails or road races, Nordictrack X32i is a better choice for you.
If you want a realistic road simulation, choose the X32i treadmill. If you want more than just a studio class on your treadmill, we recommend purchasing the Nordictrack X32i. Finally, if you prefer a personal trainer experience, the iFit trainers are a great choice as they do a fantastic job leading destination runs, hikes, and walks keeping you challenged, motivated and engaged.
Peloton Tread+: $5,995 $4,995 (includes delivery & installation) + $44/month (content)
Nordictrack X32i: $4,499 $3,999 (Includes delivery & installation) iFit’s first month is included. Then you can pay $33/month for a family if you pay annually or pay $39 monthly. There is also and individual subscription level for $12 per month annually or $15 paid monthly.
Extended warranty is an option for 3 years at $509.99 or you can get the service and maintenance option for 579.99.
Both these treadmills are very close in price, with iFit the X32i the winner. The X32i also has a better warranty.
For price flexibility NordicTrack does offer additional model(s) that offer the exact fitness benefits including a 40% incline option, and manual mode workouts but at lower price points with smaller touchscreens. The X22i Incline treadmill is $3,499.
To Confirm the Correct Commercial incline Model.
X22i Treadmill 22-inch SKU [ NTL29221 ]
X32i Treadmill 32-inch SKU [ NTL39221 ]
| X32i | TREAD+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Classes | $12-39/mth | $44/mth |
| Touchscreen | 32" | 32" |
| Incline | 40% | 15% |
| Decline | - 6% | none |
| Motor | 4.25 CHP | 2 HP AC |
| Speed | 0 - 12 mph | 0 - 12.5 mph |
| Deck Size | 22" W x 65" L | 20" W x 67" L |
| AutoBreeze Fans | Dual Fans | none |
| Cushioning Option | Reflex Cushioning | Slats |
| Speakers | 2 Digitally amplified | 20w Soundbar |
| Warranty | Frame 10yr, Screen 2yr, Parts 2yr, Labor 1yr. | Frame 5yr, Screen 1yr, Parts 1yr, Labor 1yr. |
| Dimensions | 76" L x 40" W x 73" | 72.5" L x 36.5" W x 72" |
| Weight | 350 lbs | 455 lbs |
| Price | $ |
$ |
| Shipping | Included | Included |
X22i Full Treadmill Review
X32i Full in-depth Review
X32i vs. X22i 7 Differences Review
The Peloton Tread+ and the Nordictrack X32i incline treadmill are very different purchases in their approach for hiking, walking and running workouts. It primarily comes down to the content streamed by these two companies and how that matches up with your training goals.
Peloton is more music, community engagement and the options to workout live with other runners. The Nordictrack X32i offers instructor-led studio classes, but also provides trainer-led runs up mountains, along trails and on the road, including real road races.
iFit trainers’ approach is more focused on a personal coach workout experience. Tread instructors provide more technical studio classes and group competition via the leaderboard. The best choice is going to be based on what you prefer and your training goals for working out.
That said, both treadmills are great options with motivating trainers —but our preferred recommendation is the X32i Incline Treadmill for providing more varied workouts that are interactive as the Treadmill dynamically adjusts incline and speed across a huge variety of terrains and challenges, with your trainer (Your choose how to control this feature) and there is way more variety in trainer-led runs, walks and hikes to a wider range of scenic locales.
The Tread+ does not provide any Trainer-led destination workouts, only those in a studio and some scenic runs and walks you do on your own. Peloton Tread+ does not automatically adjust, resistance incline or speed to sync with treadmill studio classes or destination runs. Interactive trainer control makes Nordictrack X32i standout over Peloton. The ability for iFit trainers to adjust incline or speed of your treadmill to sync with a studio class or the terrain you’re running or walking through, is an extremely popular feature (based on user feedback) and is not a Peloton Tread or Tread+ option.
Finally, the power of the incline even while walking can offer up to 5x the calorie burn so you can crush your goals on the X32i. In comparison the Tread+ offers only a 15% incline, whereas the X32i offers an incline up to 40% plus additionally provides a decline negative gradient option of -6% for downhill running to strengthen the quads and hamstrings.
The iFit trainer-led destination runs are extremely engaging as well as interesting and have provided a precursor to fill up or expand vacation plans for years — based on feedback from readers, who actually visit these locations IRL, (in real life) inspired by iFit workouts and trainers.
Get ready to train in the studio alongside your iFit Trainer, John Peel on the X32i Incline Treadmill
As of this writing, prior to the Tread and Tread+ Recall, there have been several Tread+ issues reported that were being worked on by Peloton. The Tread+ is a first generation of a newer product line for Peloton and will continue to evolve as they work out kinks —but these issues could affect your decision whether or not you invest in this option.
Customers have noticed significant console vibration and base movement when using the incline, unexpected noises and high noise levels plus delivery and installation issues, where some customers are on their third and fourth installation. The Peloton Tread+ is a noisier treadmill at this price point than we would expect to see, mostly because of the 2.0 HP motor, plus this raises the question of durability we mention earlier. The vibration and base issues have been somewhat resolved but delivery became a negative issue. The Tread+ is delivered by a three-man team who assemble it in your home. It was running 4-7 weeks for delivery at the time of writing.
It is also important to highlight that live walking classes were discontinued at Peloton, with only pre-recorded classes available. If your goal is primarily to walk, there are other incline treadmill options to consider including the X32i, X22i or the Proform Pro 9000 treadmill which all will give you more walking and running options at different price points.
Finally, there is the question of whether you need a dedicated circuit to run the Peloton Tread+ and Tread. According to the manual and support you are required to have a dedicated electrical circuit, but many run their Peloton Tread+ and Peloton Tread without this — the ramifications of which is still unclear both on how this may affect the equipment and the warranty.
Peloton Tread+ Recall Updates
LATEST UPDATE: 2024: As we recently reported good news for Tread+ Fans. Peloton Announced the Return of The Tread+ from its ‘Recall Exile’ and is now available with shipping in 2024.
Tread+ Recall Background:
Unfortunately, Pelotons lack of experience at the time in Treadmill design had proven to be evident. On May 5th, 2021, Peloton announced voluntary recalls of both its Tread+ and Tread treadmill machines over various safety concerns by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The company advised customers who already have these treadmills to immediately stop using them and contact Peloton for a full refund. John Foley, then CEO, apologized for not cooperating with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission sooner.
However, starting August 31st, 2021, only the Peloton Tread was made available again for sale. The higher-end Tread+ treadmill remained unavailable and under recall for child safety concerns through November 2023.
UPDATE: MAY 18, 2023: Peloton announced that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is pleased to notify all Peloton Tread+ owners that a New Tread+ Rear Safety Guard will be available late this year, free of charge.
Peloton Response after the Initial Recall
This recall prompted a software update for all peloton treadmills including the Tread. Users now must enter a User Authorized 4-digit passcode to start the running deck, (includes Free Mode as well), and a removable safety key is now included to enable a rapid stop if detached.
The good news for Peloton and Peloton fans is it looks like the Peloton Tread+ will return in 2024. The rumors are now real, the Tread+ is available again.
