Which treadmill is better for beginners: manual or automatic?

Manual treadmills are cost-effective and simple, ideal for beginners. Automatic treadmills provide comfort, preset programs, and adjustable speeds, making them better for those seeking guided workouts and versatile fitness options.

Do manual treadmills burn more calories than automatic treadmills?

Yes, manual treadmills often burn more calories since they rely entirely on user effort. Automatic treadmills offer convenience and varied workouts, but manual options demand greater energy, improving calorie burn and strength.

Which treadmill is more durable: manual or automatic?

Manual treadmills generally last longer due to fewer mechanical parts and no motor dependency. Automatic treadmills offer advanced features but may require servicing more frequently because of electrical and motorized components.

Manual Vs Automatic Treadmill: Which One Can Fulfill Your Fitness Requirements?

Confused choosing between manual and automatic treadmills? Compare the top-rated models of both variants listed on Amazon to learn the pros and cons of each to choose the best option for your fitness goals.

By : Ishaan Srivastava
Last Updated on Sep 05, 2025 13:33 IST
Published on Sep 05, 2025 13:33 IST

Choosing the top treadmill model can significantly impact your fitness journey. This article from our Fit Zone category delves into the specifics of manual versus automatic treadmills, helping you understand their core differences. We'll explore the advantages and disadvantages of each to help you make an informed decision tailored to your fitness needs and preferences. Manual treadmills use only your motion to power the unit, so they provide a more authentic and self-directed workout. Typically, manual treadmills also tend to be light and compact, not to mention not powered by electricity. In addition, manual treadmills provide the best price and are the most sustainable option for working out. With a manual treadmill, its clear that the intensity of your workout relates to your effort. This means you can burn a lot more calories because you can do a higher intensity workout.

Automatic treadmills utilize an electric motor to operate the belt to allow you to run without foot strikes, as well as allow you to modify your workout speed and incline. Most automatic treadmills will also include features like pre-programmed workouts, a heart rate monitor, and entertainment options while you work out. Automatic treadmills do have a lot of usefulness and added features, but you pay for these in weight, size, and electricity consumption. In summary, the best treadmill for you will be influenced by your fitness attitudes, your budget, and your available workout spaces.

Understanding Key Differences And Utilities

When choosing a top-rated treadmill, understanding the differences between manual and automatic models is essential for making the right fitness investment. Manual treadmills operate without electricity, offering a cost-effective, eco-friendly option, while automatic treadmills provide advanced features, comfort, and versatile workout programs. Each type has unique benefits, depending on budget, space, and fitness goals. The table below highlights key aspects such as power source, speed, cost, technology, and durability to help you decide which treadmill best suits your needs.

Feature/Aspect	Manual Treadmill	Automatic Treadmill	Utility/Best For
Power Source	Works without electricity, fully user-driven	Runs on electricity with motorized belt	Manual: Eco-friendly, outdoor-like feel Automatic: Smooth workouts, preset programs
Speed & Incline	Speed depends on user’s effort, limited incline	Adjustable speed & motorized incline options	Manual: Strength training Automatic: Cardio, endurance, HIIT
Cost & Maintenance	Budget-friendly, low maintenance	Expensive, requires regular servicing	Manual: Beginners, low-budget users Automatic: Fitness enthusiasts
Workout Experience	Tougher on joints, requires more effort	Comfortable, cushioned belt, advanced features	Manual: Short, intense workouts Automatic: Long, versatile workouts
Features & Technology	Basic design, no digital display or programs	Digital console, workout modes, app sync, speakers	Manual: Simple use Automatic: Tech-savvy fitness lovers
Space & Portability	Lightweight, foldable, easy to move	Heavier, requires more space	Manual: Small apartments Automatic: Home gyms
Durability & Lifespan	Lasts long due to simple mechanics	May wear out faster with heavy motor use	Manual: Long-term durability Automatic: Moderate to high usage

Top Five Products

PowerMax Fitness TDM-98
The PowerMax Fitness TDM-98 is a stout treadmill made for use at home. It has a 4.0HP peak motor to allow a smooth experience for any type of workout: walking, jogging, or running. In addition, it has a USB connection to allow you to charge your devices or simply play music while getting your workout in. Being from one of the best treadmill brands, the TDM-98 has health at its forefront, because it has built-in heart rate sensors that will provide information on your heart rate, allowing you to train at the right intensity. The treadmill has a heightened user interface with pre-set programs suitable for any range of fitness level. The TDM-98 has power, features, monitoring, and convenience with a dash of usability, making it a fantastic choice to stay fit from the comforts of your home.
Specifications
- Brand: PowerMax Fitness
- Model: TDM-98
- Colour: Black
- Item Weight: 30 Kg (approx.)
- Material: Alloy Steel & Plastic
- Motor Power: 4.0 HP Peak DC Motor
- Display Type: LCD (time, speed, distance, calories, pulse)
- Speed Range: up to 10 km/h
- Power Source: Electric (corded)
- Max User Weight: 100 Kg
- Incline: No incline
- Connectivity: USB port, AUX input
- Installation: Semi-preassembled
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design ideal for small homes
- 4.0 HP peak motor ensures smooth performance
- USB connectivity for music during workouts
- Preinstalled features allow quick setup
Cons
- Lower speed range compared to similar models
- Max user weight limited to 100 kg
- No incline options reduce workout intensity
01
Cockatoo SmartRun3.5
The Cockatoo SmartRun3.5 Motorized Treadmill is a fantastic workout option for your home fitness program. The treadmill boasts a heavy-duty 3.5HP peak DC motor, which operates smoothly and quietly for walking, jogging, and running at speeds of up to 16 km/hr. You can control the workout intensity using three levels of manual incline to build and work different muscle groups and burn more calories. It is rated for users weighing up to 120kg and is very solid and dependable. The treadmill has a DIY (Do It Yourself) installation process which makes setup and assembly a breeze. In addition, the treadmill is aesthetically stylish and would suit any home gym with its solid black design. The SmartRun3.5 definitely gives you a solid workout featuring comfort and reliability while working toward your fitness goals.
Specifications
- Brand: Cockatoo
- Model: SmartRun3.5
- Colour: Black
- Item Weight: 46 Kg
- Material: Alloy Steel & Plastic
- Motor Power: 3.5 HP Peak DC Motor
- Display Type: LCD (time, speed, distance, calories, pulse)
- Speed Range: up to 16 km/h
- Power Source: Electric (corded)
- Max User Weight: 120 Kg
- Incline: 3-level manual incline
- Connectivity: Basic (no Bluetooth)
- Installation: DIY (Do It Yourself)
Pros
- High speed of 16 km/h supports advanced runners
- 3-level incline for better calorie burn and intensity
- Strong build with 120 kg weight capacity
- Reliable DC motor ensures smooth performance
Cons
- No Bluetooth or advanced entertainment features
- Manual incline adjustment interrupts workout flow
- DIY installation may not suit all buyers
02
Lifelong LLTM153 Fit Pro
The Lifelong LLTM153 Fit Pro Motorised Treadmill is built for serious workouts at home! The powerful 4.5 HP peak motor will effortlessly power you to speeds of up to 14 km/hr, allowing you to briskly walk, jog or run. It is durable, rated up to a maximum user weight of 110kg. The integrated heart rate sensor allows you to monitor your heart rate accurately, so you can get feedback on your training and adapt your training to meet your fitness goals efficiently. It has manual incline options you can use to amp up your workout and work on a more comprehensive muscle training program. We offer video call installation support to make it easy for you to build and get started on your home treadmill. The design is sleek and modern and will make a great addition to any home gym.
Specifications
- Brand: Lifelong
- Model: LLTM153 Fit Pro
- Colour: Black
- Item Weight: 45 Kg (approx.)
- Material: Alloy Steel & Plastic
- Motor Power: 4.5 HP Peak DC Motor
- Display Type: LCD (time, speed, distance, calories, pulse)
- Speed Range: up to 14 km/h
- Power Source: Electric (corded)
- Max User Weight: 110 Kg
- Incline: Manual incline
- Connectivity: Basic (USB/AUX, no Bluetooth)
- Installation: Video call assistance provided
Pros
- Powerful 4.5 HP peak motor for smoother running
- Heart rate sensor ensures effective tracking
- Installation help through video call guidance
- Sturdy design with shock absorption
Cons
- Lower speed compared to some competitors
- Manual incline lacks convenience
- Max weight capacity slightly less than rivals
03
Sparnod Fitness STH-550 Manual Foldable Treadmill
The Sparnod Fitness STH-550 Manual Foldable Treadmill features an innovative workout powered simply by your stride. The 5-layer anti-skid belt and 100x35 cm running surface will give you safety and comfort while working out. There is a shock absorber to minimize the impact of running, and you can also change the intensity using the manual incline option, which will engage different muscles when running. Using the integrated phone holder you will remain connected and entertained while running. To take care of all your needs, the STH-550 is foldable, which will make it easy to store and is a perfect solution for small spaces, leading it to the category of best treadmill for home. The model will also allow you to reach your fitness goals based on real-time feedback while providing a user-oriented workout experience and convenience.
Specifications
- Brand: Sparnod Fitness
- Model: STH-550
- Colour: Black
- Item Weight: 25 Kg (approx.)
- Material: Alloy Steel & Plastic
- Motor Power: Non-electric (manual)
- Display Type: LCD (time, speed, distance, calories)
- Speed Range: User-powered pace
- Power Source: No electricity required
- Max User Weight: 100 Kg
- Incline: Manual incline
- Connectivity: None
- Installation: Easy foldable design
Pros
- Eco-friendly, requires no electricity
- Compact and foldable for small spaces
- 5-layer anti-skid belt ensures safe running
- Shock absorber reduces impact on joints
Cons
- User-powered operation can feel strenuous
- Limited features compared to motorized treadmills
- Not suitable for advanced runners
04
Fitkit by Cult FT801 4 in 1 Manual Multifunction Non Electric Treadmill
The Cult Fitkit FT801 4-in-1 Manual Multifunction Non Electric Treadmill truly offers a complete home solution for fitness. You power this treadmill with effort, providing a natural and effective cardio-exercise while you jog. The treadmill integrates a stepper for toning legs and glutes, a twister for engaging your core, and push-up bars for upper body strength!! This MRT multifunction machine cleverly mixes other home fitness equipment to help keep your workout regime fresh. Three levels of manual inclination give you some very unique workout intensity layouts to engage different muscle groups effectively and burn maximum calories. The Fitkit is designed for home-gym life, and as a compact, non-electric treadmill, it can be used anywhere and save you space while being environmentally-friendly.
Specifications
- Brand: Fitkit by Cult
- Model: FT801
- Colour: Black
- Item Weight: 30 Kg (approx.)
- Material: Alloy Steel & Plastic
- Motor Power: Non-electric (manual)
- Display Type: LCD (time, distance, calories, scan)
- Speed Range: User-powered pace
- Power Source: No electricity required
- Max User Weight: 100 Kg
- Incline: 3-level manual inclination
- Connectivity: None
- Installation: Easy DIY setup
Pros
- 4-in-1 multifunction design with jogger, stepper, twister, push-up bar
- Compact and eco-friendly with no electricity required
- Incline adjustment for added workout variety
- Budget-friendly with 6-month warranty
Cons
- Manual operation may not suit beginners
- Running deck smaller than motorized treadmills
- Lacks entertainment or smart connectivity features
05

Conclusion

In conclusion, the selection between a manual or automatic treadmill, boils down to individual needs, preferences and fitness goals. There is no "better" option; both models provide advantages. Manual treadmills are inexpensive, environmentally friendly, and also 'user-directed' workout format for users with an interest in mimicking their body’s natural gait and/or performing intense bursts of short exercise - late interval training. Automatic treadmill, on the contrary, is convenient, with programmed advances and suitability for a more enjoyable experience, convenience and the user-suited nature, and longer and/or a more controlled session. If you understand these main differences and look inwardly at your own personal needs, you can feel comfortable selecting the treadmill that best suits your fitness journey.

Disclaimer: At Jagran, we prioritize providing the up-to-date information on the latest trending commodities and goods. This Article is written and vetted by our in-house category authors in sync with the Google guidelines on product reviews and shoppable content. Jagran is in an associate partnership, so we may earn a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

Faq's

Which treadmill is better for beginners: manual or automatic?
+
Manual treadmills are cost-effective and simple, ideal for beginners. Automatic treadmills provide comfort, preset programs, and adjustable speeds, making them better for those seeking guided workouts and versatile fitness options.
Do manual treadmills burn more calories than automatic treadmills?
+
Yes, manual treadmills often burn more calories since they rely entirely on user effort. Automatic treadmills offer convenience and varied workouts, but manual options demand greater energy, improving calorie burn and strength.
Which treadmill is more durable: manual or automatic?
+
Manual treadmills generally last longer due to fewer mechanical parts and no motor dependency. Automatic treadmills offer advanced features but may require servicing more frequently because of electrical and motorized components.

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