NordicTrack X16 Treadmill Review

NordicTrack has been a leading manufacturer of fitness equipment for decades. The company started in a garage with a cross-country ski emulator in 1975 and has grown to employ more than 2000 people. This generation of treadmills includes the X16 and X24, bringing more capability than any previous model. The two treadmills differ only in the size of their screens, so if you're interested in the X24, the majority of this review is relevant to that machine. While the treadmill is high-quality and a pleasure to run on, it exists in the shadow of iFit. The immersive, subscription-based workout program has tremendous production quality and has motivated me for the past several months of running on the X16. The treadmill itself is large, powerful, and well-thought-out. The machine is absolutely massive; it weighs almost 400 pounds and dominates any room you put it in. While most full-sized treadmills are large, the X16 stands out with its almost comically tall sled push rails and 13" step-on height.

Performance Comparison

Exercise Quality

The X16 is a phenomenal machine that can take your fastest runs and your hardest sprints. The enormous incline range can create grades that feel almost impossible to run up. I loved getting lost in the runs on this machine; it's so large, comfortable, and entertaining that it's easy to zone out (or in) with the iFit workouts. The machine uses a 4.25 CHP (constant horsepower) motor, eclipsing the power of any other treadmill we've tested. You feel this power in the speed of acceleration and responsiveness; there is no lag or hesitation when you dig in. The motor uses a flywheel on one side and a fan on the other, giving the belt a smoother feel and keeping the unit cool during all-out efforts. If you're using the treadmill for high-intensity training, the rapid changes in incline and speed are perfect for spiking your heart rate and dropping back into rest periods.

NordicTrack advertises a running deck that is 60 inches long by 22 inches wide, giving the X16 a nice, wide running surface. The dimensions of the belt match that of the Sole F80, Horizon 7.4 AT, and Bowflex 22, which all allow unhindered, full-speed running. The layout of the X16's deck makes its running surface feel bigger; even if you're hugging the console, you'll be hard-pressed to kick the front of the machine. The gap between the running belt and side rails is wider than on most machines, which gives you less chance of kicking those rails. The belt measures a full 22" wide and 60" to the top of the curve around the rear 63.5mm roller. These large rollers contribute to the smooth motion and decrease wear on the belt.

You can take a nice brisk walk on the X16, but this machine is built for all-out, hardcore training. With no stride restriction and speeds up to 12 mph, you can lay down a 5-minute mile without the anxious feeling you get on smaller decks. I felt faster than normal when I started using the machine and wondered if there was some magic to the deck, but my speed gains were fiction. We used a measuring wheel on the belt at different speeds to calculate how much the machine's calibration was off. Our devices measured 496.11 feet of belt in 60 seconds at six mph. This showed the machine's accuracy was off by a little over 6%. Calibrating the machine involved getting access to the potentiometer on the main circuit board; this required a special order for a 14" long Phillips head screwdriver, but once adjusted, we got it within 0.5% of where it should be.

Deck Comfort

The running deck uses a new technology called SpringFlex, which NordicTrack says is “designed to absorb impact and provide stability.” This differs from NordicTrack's previous RunnersFlex or RunFlex mostly in name. While previous types of deck cushioning have utilized four to six 12-19mm elastomers placed between the frame and deck, SpringFlex uses four ultra-soft elastomers that measure 40mm thick. This provides a dampened platform for running or walking that flexes more in the center. We measured the deck flex using a digital force meter mounted to a jig and platform we developed especially for this test. To create 1/2" of deflection in the center of the running deck required 720 Newtons of force. This shows slightly less compliance than the NordicTrack EXP 7i and Echelon Stride 6, which required 609 and 658 Newtons of force, respectively, but this isn't the full story. The X16 is different in design from most other treadmills; rather than multiple frame mounts and a motor up front, the deck is cantilevered from the rear, with the motor in the rear beneath the belt. What is evident in the footage we took of runners' footfalls is that the entire cantilevered deck is in dynamic motion, providing more dampening than just the elastomers allow. The other benefit of cantilevering the deck from the rear is that the display isn't directly connected to the frame, so there was no noticeable screen movement, even while running at higher speeds.

Incline Range

The immense incline range is the big feature that sets the X-class treadmills apart. This changes not only how you can use the machine but also its appearance and the space you need to house it. At first glance, the machine's Sled Grips seem like a bizarre tribute to an antelope, but as you kick up the grade, you realize they are as necessary as trail-running poles in steep conditions. Keeping a stride at an almost 40% grade is nearly impossible without using handles that look like oversized parenthesis around the console. As you kick up the incline to quad-busting extremes, the deck rises, and so do you. It's important to consider the height requirements for this machine. When our six-foot tester used the Sled Push feature with the deck at its highest incline, the top of his head measured 93.5" tall. The Sled Push feature is a low-speed, high-exertion workout that emulates pushing a sled. You can create a very intense calf workout by holding the tops of the Sled Grips and “pushing” the belt at a very steep angle.

We measured the deck's angle and found its terminal incline to be 38.38% and the decline to be 5.67%. We could call out NordicTrack for not giving us the 40% to -6% they advertise, but this range is more than sufficient for training. Multiple record-holding endurance runner Amber Weibel loves the decline feature for trail run training but says she rarely exceeds a 25% incline. Pushing beyond 25% feels like you've veered off the trail and are attacking the summit in a completely unsustainable way. I still got a thrill from using the steepest setting but limited it to short bursts of cardio spiking output.

Companion App/Connectivity

The X16 and X24 differ only in the size of their displays, and there may be a compelling reason to opt for the larger, more expensive screen. Once you've made your treadmill purchase, the ongoing costs of the companion app are not unsubstantial. Over many years, the extra price of the larger screen could be nominal. When we crunched the numbers on the 5-year cost of ownership, the 24" screen would cost you approximately $8 more monthly. The 16" HD touchscreen is impressive and sufficient, but the iFit workouts have such phenomenal production quality that viewing them on a larger, more immersive screen is incredible. If you're going to be spending a substantial amount of time on this machine, being able to immerse yourself fully in the workouts is priceless. Running with outstanding motivational trainers in some of the world's most beautiful locations feels like virtual fitness travel. I loved running the coast of Portugal or virtually training for the Boston Marathon; the footage is stunning, and the trainers are exceptionally good. I think iFit is the most interesting and engaging app experience offered today, and personally, I need a little entertainment to spend more than an hour pushing out the mileage on the belt.

Started back in 1977, Weslo was the first iteration of iFit that would later pair VHS machines with fitness equipment. They've come a long way and distinguish themselves from other studio-centric competitors today by offering an extensive library of trainer-led workouts in breathtaking locations worldwide. There are literally thousands of engaging videos led by awesome trainers that tell captivating stories and share history and training tips while vigorously exploring the world. The trainers bring personality, expertise, and local knowledge to each session, often sharing motivational stories and fun facts about the area. One of the things I like most about iFit is its accessibility to all fitness levels, from walking and hiking to sprints and ultra training.

When you're using the X16 with iFit, it automatically adjusts the speed and incline based on the workout you're doing and the direction of your trainer. If the trainer starts running faster, your belt speed increases; when the trail gets steeper, your incline ramps up. This allows for an incredibly immersive experience where you're not left futzing with dials or pushing buttons. If the trainer is running faster or slower than you'd like, you can adjust your speed or incline independently, and “Smart Adjust” will tailor the rest of the workout to your settings. There are a wide array of training programs, workout formats, and themed challenges to keep you engaged and motivated. iFit isn't limited to treadmill workouts; they offer cycling, yoga, strength training, and other guided fitness classes. To take advantage of off-treadmill classes, you can stand behind the treadmill or pivot the HD touchscreen for viewing from the side. This is a cool feature if you have space, but you can also use your iFit membership on your tablet or SmartTV.

App Cost

iFit membership costs $39/month and allows up to 5 user profiles. If you pay in advance, you can save a few dollars; the current promo offers 2 years for $29/month. There's a cheaper way to experience iFit, but it won't work on your treadmill screen. For $15/month, you can experience the app through your smartphone or tablet. This may be a good way to try the app before jumping into a treadmill that more or less relies on the app. I say more or less because you can use the treadmill without an app; it's just not very engaging.

User Interface/Ease of Use

Your interface with the X16 is largely the 16" HD Touchscreen, but there are also a few physical buttons on the console. Whether you're using iFit or the machine's basic functionality, quick jump speed and incline shortcut buttons line the edges of the screen. When you're using iFit, these buttons aren't necessary, as you can rely on your workout to make all the necessary adjustments through SmartAdjust. The controls aren't standout features for this machine, and notably, it lacks handrail controls, something we've appreciated about other models.

The HD screen has excellent resolution and touch sensitivity with little to no latency. Navigating the UI is easy, but the volume of classes offered through iFit can feel a little overwhelming. You can browse by categories like run, walk, hike, strength-train, active recovery, and many more. Once you've chosen a category, you can filter and sort by duration, intensity, activity, environment, language, and trainer. iFit currently offers classes in English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, Russian, and Mandarin. Under the display are two 5.1cm speakers that broadcast loud enough to hear over the sound of the treadmill.

Features

The main features of the X16 are its incredible incline range and SpringFlex running deck, but there are quite a few other attributes worth discussing. The treadmill's AutoBreeze fan automatically adjusts based on your level of exertion; it's a small feature that was probably easy to engineer, but it's yet another way that the machine produces an immersive experience. The fan can also be adjusted manually with sweat-proof buttons on the console. Other sweat-proof buttons on the console increase or decrease speed and incline with simple + / - controls. The accessory tray has two recesses for a water bottle, phone, towel, and USB-C charging from the screen. As with other treadmills, a safety key connects to a lanyard that clips to your clothing; if the magnetic key is pulled from its slot, the treadmill quickly comes to a stop.

The X16 has a 16" HD Touchscreen that tilts and swivels 90 degrees. In theory, this adjustability should give the treadmill more versatility for off-treadmill classes, but the sled grips and accessory tray compromise the view of the screen when rotated 90 degrees. You can do off-treamill workouts behind the machine if you have the space. NordicTrack recommends 8 feet clearance behind the X16 and 2 feet on each side. Unlike most treadmills I've tested, the X series treadmills do not fold, so their footprints can't be reduced. There are wheels on the front of the frame that help to move the treadmill on hard floors, but lifting the back of the treadmill to engage those wheels is a job for two people. The frame has adjustable feet that allow you to level it on hard surfaces; NordicTrack recommends using a treadmill mat if you don't have solid flooring.

The console uses Bluetooth to connect to a heart rate monitor or headphones (available separately). Whether using Bluetooth headphones or the console's speakers, you can independently adjust the volume of the app, trainer, and music. An ActivePulse feature allows you to pair a heart rate monitor (not included) with the machine, and it will automatically tailor your workout to targeted heart rate zones. When you get saturated with classes and coaches, you can use your display to watch Prime Video or Netflix if you have subscriptions to those services. If you still crave more variety, iFit allows you to create a Draw your own Map through Google Maps and follow along with Google Street View. It's not totally seamless, but it expands your horizons. If you're using another fitness tracker or app, iFit can integrate with connected apps like Apple Health, Garmin Connect, Strava, and Google Fit. NordicTrack did not provide a place to rest a tablet but you can stream Netflix or Prime Video through the display.

Ease of Assembly

Sometimes, a video can tell you all you need to know about a certain aspect of the machine. We shoot timelapse videos of the assembly process, and while you can see exactly what was involved in the 62-minute assembly below, it's hard to convey exactly how massive the machine is. The treadmill was delivered by semi-truck and brought through our roll-up door on a powered pallet jack. From there, we moved the 445-pound box inside our testing facility with a manual pallet jack; moving it without that tool would not have been possible.

This is the largest and heaviest treadmill we've ever tested, and without a roll-up door and pallet jack, getting the machine placed and assembled would have been exponentially harder. Moving it after assembly isn't much easier, so ensure you get it to its final resting place before beginning the assembly process. The NordicTrack manual says not to use the machine in a garage or covered patio, so consider placement carefully. You may also want to consider the amount of packaging disposal you'll need, as our crate, box, and substantial styrofoam were far too much for most residential services.

Nothing about the assembly was particularly difficult, but several steps involved heavy lifting. The running deck and frame are already assembled, and most of your tasks involve building the upper half of the machine. Several steps involve running wiring and holding pieces in place while securing hardware, so if you have two people, the process will be much easier. Printed instructions and tools are included, and the hardware is bubble-packed and easy to identify.

Storability

This isn't the metric where the X16 shines. The large machine measures 70.75" long by 38.5" wide. The top of the Sled Push handles hit the 75" mark on our tape measure. Notably, all dimensions are slightly larger than the NordicTrack website suggests. There is no folding feature or any way to reduce the size of the machine's 2722 square inch footprint. It's not quite as large as the BowFlex 22, but the Bowflex folds up and weighs 100 pounds less. Wheels on the front of the frame are well mentioned, but needing two people to tilt and roll the machine seems a bit much.

In short, the X16 is the least storable of the treadmills we've tested, but that's not necessarily a point against it. The treadmill design prioritizes use over storage, and if you're looking for a machine worthy of hard-core training, maybe fitting it in a closet isn't necessary. The one aspect that really stood out in terms of the machine's size is its height; the deck has a 13" step-up height, and the sled grips are so tall that I wouldn't consider putting this treadmill anywhere with less than 8-foot ceilings.

Noise Level

The X16 feels like a gym-quality treadmill due to its imposing size and powerful 4.25 CHP motor. The design of this machine with the large motor under the deck may help keep the noise levels lower, but it will not go unnoticed. We measured the noise output of the treadmill with different runners at four mph; the average noise level was 63db. The noise level is roughly average compared to the other 13 treadmills in this test. Looking at the extremes in our noise testing only nets a difference of 5db between the 60db Echelon Stride 6 and 65db Peloton Tread.

Should You Buy the NordicTrack X16?

The X16 is a major commitment, not only in dollars but also in space and the iFit app's ongoing cost. If you're unsure of your devotion to a treadmill workout, selling and moving the machine won't be easy. If you have the space and want one of the most comprehensive treadmill workouts you can get, the NordicTrack X-series should be on your shortlist. After months of using the treadmill, I'd recommend the X24 over the X16 as the extra cost feels nominal, and the larger screen doesn't occupy more space; it will just keep you more immersed in the workouts. The screen on the X16 never felt too small, but the scenery is so breathtaking that I would opt for the largest screen possible. I was disappointed that the speed wasn't properly calibrated on this expensive machine, but a few YouTube videos and a $15 screwdriver got it dialed in perfectly.

What Other Treadmills Should You Consider?

If you've read this far and you liked the tremendous capabilities of the X16, check out the BowFlex 22, which is also incredibly powerful, inclines up to 20 percent, and can decline to -5%. The JRNY app can't compare with the production quality of iFit, but the machine itself is excellent. If devoting an entire room isn't your idea of a commitment to fitness, check out the Echelon Stride 6 that provides solid exercise quality, can be used with any app, and can fold up and store under a couch or behind a door.