MaxKare Electric Folding Treadmill Review (2.5HP Model)

A treadmill is one of the most desired pieces of equipment for a home gym, there's no doubt about that. That’s why I’ve decided to focus on one of the most popular models for those who are on a budget: the MaxKare 2.5HP Folding Treadmill.

The MaxKare brand is one of the leaders among home gym fitness equipment manufacturers with a focus on cardio machines, such as exercise bikes,  treadmills, and elliptical trainers. Besides fitness gear, they make practically everything, ranging from digital scales to heated mattresses.

But for now, we're here to focus on the brand's electric 2.5HP folding treadmill, so let’s jump right into the complete review.

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Product Specifications

Assembled Dimensions (LxWxH)

54" x 28" x 9"

Motor Size

2.5 HP

Running Belt Width

17"

Max User Capacity

220 lbs.

Speed Range, Incline %

0.5 - 8.5 mPH, 
0 - 12%

No. Of Programs

15 Preset

Warranty

lifetime frame, 1 year motor, 90 days parts 

This machine is ergonomically designed to fit people from 4'6" to 6'2" in height. The steel frame supports a relatively large panel and LCD display that comes with 15 preset programs. The LCD display provides you with data on time, speed, distance, calories burned, and thanks to the hand-pulse monitor, heart rate.

Thanks to the 2.5 horsepower pure-copper monitor, you'll be able to walk or run at a speed ranging from 0.5 to 8.5 MPH (0.8 – 13.6 km/h). The 17" wide multi-layer tread belt and anti-shop system can handle a maximum weight of 220 pounds.

The controls allow you to adjust the incline automatically from 0 to 12%. This means you can customize your workout to burn more calories (the higher the incline, the more calories burned) and you can do so with the touch of a button.

One great feature of the MaxKare is the foldable design, which means you can easily store it when not in use. The assembled dimensions are 54” by 28" by 9" while the folded dimensions are 28.47” x 26.18” x 46.42. The machine weighs a total of 115 pounds. 

Overall, its a great piece of gym equipment and you'll see the benefits to your morning or evening running routine, all for an affordable price

Feature Summary:
  • Steel frame
  • 4'6" to 6'2" supported height range
  • LCD with 15 preset programs
  • Heart rate monitor
  • 2.5HP pure-copper motor
  • 0.5 to 8.5MPH speed range
  • 220 lbs maximum weight support
  • Anti-shock system
  • Foldable
  • Dimensions: 54" x 28" x 9"
  • Assembled weight: 115 lbs
MaxKare Treadmill 2.5HP

Is It Running Already? Wait, that Quiet?

The assembly of the MaxKare treadmill 2.5HP is quite easy. It shouldn’t take more than an hour to put together by one person - although it never hurts to have buddy close by to help you out.

The frame itself is quite sturdy, so no problem there. One thing you’ll notice right from the start is how quiet the machine is. You can expect your own steps to be much louder than the motor itself, and this is a big plus for MaxKare users.

Honestly, I’m not sure about the claimed support of 220 pounds of weight. I would top it at a max of 200 pounds, but maybe I’m wrong. If you're over 200 pounds, then I personally suggest going with another model with a higher weight support. 

The panel with built-in LCD is big enough and provides all the necessary data for tracking your workouts. There is also a phone and cup holder mounted within the panel. The 15 preset programs will definitely save you some time, especially if you are new to running on a treadmill.

The anti-shock system works great, no matter how hard you step on the belt. The fact that is it foldable is also plus, especially if you need to temporarily store it away from time to time or if you're after a treadmill for an apartment.

One thing to note here is that it does not have front transportation wheels, so you might want to take extra precautions to avoid scratches on your floor.


Alternative (Better) Folding Treadmill Models

Unfortunately, the MaxKare treadmill is such a popular option that it's not always in stock. If that's the case and you're looking for a similar model, here are my recommendations for an alternative folding treadmill for your home gym:

  • XTERRA TR150 Folding Treadmill - This treadmill by XTERRA is very similar in design and price to the MaxKare model, with a few minor differences. Although it has fewer preset programs - just 12 compared to MaxKare's 15 - it has a higher weight support of 250 pounds and a higher maximum speed of 10MPH. All in all, it's another great choice if you're looking for a foldable, affordable treadmill.
  • UMAY Portable Treadmill - The UMAY treadmill is another top pick if you're looking for something with a space-saving design. It's extremely compact - even smaller than the MaxKare - but that also means that it's less powerful. Instead of a 2.5HP motor, the UMAY model runs on a 1.5HP motor, so it's not ideal if you want to push yourself with high-speed runs. It only reaches a maximum of 4MPH, so it's a better alternative for brisk walking rather than running. 

Want a similar priced treadmill? -  Check out our Top Treadmills under $300


MaxKare Treadmill Pros & Cons

As with basically every piece of fitness equipment, this one has its pros and cons alike:

The Good

  • Very quiet
  • Sturdy
  • Small and compact in design
  • Foldable
  • Bottle and phone holder included
  • Good looking design
  • Good customer service from MaxKare

The Bad

  • No transportation wheels
  • Signs of wear and tear can be seen in a short time

Conclusion 

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If you are under 220 pounds (I’d say 200 just to be safe) and less than 6'2", then this is definitely a treadmill to consider.

This MaxKare model is one of the best affordable treadmills on the market for a home gym. As long as you don't mind seeing a scratch from time to time and you're OK with the absence of transportation wheels, then this fella is worth buying.

Last Updated on January 13, 2023