Horizon Fitness T101 Connect review: A $600 treadmill that’s perfect for some (but not all) fitness fans

You have some big decisions to make when it comes to shopping for a treadmill. Are you looking to splurge on a high-tech model with all the bells and whistles, or are you more into a solid machine that simply gets the job done? The Horizon Fitness T101 Connect delivers on option #2, with a moderate price tag, durable build and basic — but essential — features for getting your heart pumping.

As a former competitive runner who has tested several treadmills over the past few years, I admittedly have high standards for these machines. The Horizon Fitness T101 Connect is far from the most premium model I’ve used, but it’s still packed with enough features and intelligent design elements to make it work for most users. Plus, at $600, this machine manages to toe the line between budget and high-end models, delivering a treadmill that can hold up to regular running and walking workouts. There are some quirks, but this machine is still worth considering for an effective cardio workout that won't break the bank.

It has a sleek design

The Horizon Fitness T101 Connect can’t match the look and feel of top-of-the-line options like the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 or even Horizon’s own 7.8 AT treadmill, but it's still stylish enough to place in your home gym or bedroom without being a clunky eyesore.

This machine has a standard hard plastic frame, with handlebars that are just long enough to offer support without getting in the way. Built-in cup holders on either side of the display are a nice perk, especially for longer workouts where you might down a lot of liquids.

The T101 Connect also sits low to the ground, creating an illusion that the machine isn’t hogging a ton of room, despite its long deck. The all-over black color and smaller display add to the vibe.

I’ve been through a nightmare situation where I didn’t pay extra for treadmill setup, only to have to scramble to try to get a machine out of my driveway and into my home gym. Paying $299 for white glove delivery ($150 above the standard $149 delivery fee) is worth it if your budget allows, especially given that this machine weighs 180 pounds. Otherwise, you'll need a strong friend, or possibly two, to help haul it to your room of choice.

Another benefit of white glove delivery is that they'll assemble the treadmill and take the packaging materials away with them, so you won't be spending the evening cutting up cardboard and figuring out how to fit it all into your recycling bin.

That said, the true value in white glove delivery is more about getting the treadmill to the desired spot than trouble with assembly. The machine comes in eight main parts, and the assembly instructions are clear, with drawings and text that guide you through each step.

The display is admittedly basic

There is no fancy display with this machine, but it’s straightforward enough, with clear up and down buttons for adjusting incline and speed. On either side of those buttons are numbers to allow you to get to your desired speed or incline with one touch. Want to go straight to 5 miles per hour? Simply press the 5 button and pick up the pace.

Clearly marked stop and start buttons help you to get going or shut things down quickly; the fan is impressively strong, delivering a solid breeze across three speeds; and there are six programs you can punch in for targeted workouts, like intervals, “fat burn,” and “hill climb.”

Horizon Fitness T101 Connect: Its top features

Again, the Horizon Fitness T101 Connect is a relatively basic model. But it has some features that you won’t find in a random Amazon cheapie treadmill.

For starters, the deck is long and wide (55 inches long by 20 inches wide, to be exact), so there’s no need to worry about sliding off the back if you slow down or having to adjust your stride to fit. My go-to treadmill has a shorter deck, and I could feel the difference.

There are also dials on the handlebars to adjust the speed and incline quickly. While you also have those numbered buttons and up/down options, this is perfect for interval workouts, when hitting those buttons on the move requires extra coordination. The three fan speeds are a nice element too, allowing you to tailor how breezy things get based on how hard you’re going.

There are two different spots for a phone or tablet, allowing you to comfortably store several devices at once. The Bluetooth-enabled built-in speakers are a solid perk, allowing you to stream your favorite shows, music or podcasts with clear sound.

This machine feels sturdy too, whether you’re walking on it or moving at an all-out sprint. I’ve been on machines that felt like they would quit at high speeds — this is not that.

It works with fitness apps

The T101 Connect is an upgraded version of Horizon Fitness’ T101 thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity. That allows you to use your favorite fitness apps, like JRNY, Peloton, Zwift or Nike Run Club, with the machine from your phone or tablet. Of course, you can also play your favorite shows and music through the Bluetooth connection. The speakers are impressively clear, and I had no issues hearing my music over the sound of the treadmill during workouts.

Storage and mobility is just OK

The Horizon Fitness T101 Connect folds to free up precious floor space when you need it. But while the hydraulic folding process is relatively easy, it does require a little muscle. It’s not hard, per se, but it’s not the easiest option I’ve used.

The machine also doesn’t fully fold. Instead, it creates a V-shape. If you’re really limited on space or are used to a treadmill that will fold upright, this can be annoying. Like many treadmills, the T101 Connect has wheels in the front, but it’s unlikely you’ll be seamlessly moving this from spot to spot given its relatively heavy overall weight.

There are a few drawbacks, but they're not dealbreakers

I have a few small gripes with the machine that are important to point out. One is that it shakes a little while you’re running. It doesn’t feel like you’re going to fall off mid-stride or anything, but there is some definite vibration happening as you move. Adding a pad under the machine may help absorb some of the shakes.

Horizon Fitness calls this treadmill “ultra quiet” and I’m not sure I agree with that. The machine isn’t loud, but it’s also not something I would use right next to my sleeping baby. The company also talks up the treadmill’s three-zone Variable Response Cushioning System, but I found that it has noticeably less cushioning than other, more expensive models I’ve used.

Finally, there was an arsenal of stickers all over this machine that I had to peel off after it was assembled. I cracked myself up realizing that there were more (and even more) as I went along.

Horizon Fitness T101 Connect: Should you buy it?

The Horizon Fitness T101 Connect isn’t perfect, but when you factor in the pros and cons with the $600 price tag, it’s a total bargain. For those who prefer to do walking workouts, this is a no-brainer. You will easily be able to get in your step count in comfort, with the ability to make quick adjustments as you go.

And the Horizon Fitness T101 Connect can also be a solid option if you’re a daily treadmill runner. Just be aware that you’re probably going to feel each step more than you would with a higher-cushioned deck, and that you’ll likely have to deal with some shakiness at higher speeds.

If you have the money for a higher-end machine, sure, go for it. But if you’re looking to get a new treadmill at home and don’t want to pay a ton, the Horizon Fitness T101 Connect is a decent choice for this price point.

You can also check out our picks of the best treadmills, with options for virtually every budget and fitness level.

Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.