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The NordicTrack T 6.5S is a mid-range treadmill. This model is a good choice if you’re looking for a treadmill that is comfortable enough to walk, jog or run.
PROS
- The NordicTrack brand is known for building durable treadmills
- FlexSelect cushioning provides a comfortable running experience
- Treadmill belt is easy to fold and unfold
CONS
- Running at a higher pace is a bit noisy
- You’ll have to pay extra for the iFit program
- Does not have a built-in fan
Key Features
- FlexSelect cushioning that reduces the impact on your joints as you use the treadmill. You can also select the other option which makes the belt feel like you’re running on the road.
- 20 workout programs designed by a certified personal trainer. You can choose from a variety of different customized programs. The 20 programs should be enough to keep you challenged.
- iFit compatibility for more advanced training options. It allows you to select a training route using Google Maps. However, a paid iFit subscription is required.
- Cardiogrip heart rate monitor helps to give you an insight of your current heart rate. Just hold on to the metal sensors.
- Connect your MP3-Player or iPod and play your music through the sound system which consists of two speakers while you’re running.
Review of the product
Build quality: 4.5/5
The T 6.5S is a treadmill with good build quality. The rollers, belt and motor are custom build, which helps to increase the overall quality of this treadmill.
Plus, all of the motors are tested to make sure that they can generate sufficient power without overheating. Maybe that’s why NordicTrack decided to give 25 years warranty on the motor. Furthermore, you’ll get a lifetime warranty on the frame and a 1-year warranty on parts and labor.
Lastly, the maximum weight capacity is 300 lbs. If you’re weighing more than 300 lbs it’s recommended to search for another treadmill.
Power & Noise 3.5/5
This treadmill has a motor with a 2.6 Continuous Horse Power (CHP) drive system which allows users to run at a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour. Sounds cool, huh?
Well, a 2.6 CHP motor is strong enough to run on the treadmill without any issues. Also, for most runners the 12 miles per hour will be fast enough. If you want to go faster than that, then this is obviously not the treadmill for you.
As for the level of noise, you can expect this treadmill to make at least some noise while running at a faster pace. Therefore, it’s recommended to make use of a treadmill mat. This is especially recommended for runners who are afraid the treadmill will make too much noise. A mat will help to absorb the pounding of your feet and the noise of the motor.
Ease of Use: 5/5
This treadmill is pretty easy to use. The OneTouch controls allow you to automatically adjust your speed and incline by the touch of a button. The automatic incline is especially useful for runners because you can keep on running without having to pause your workout to adjust the incline.
Furthermore, information about your current workout is shown on a 5-inch backlit display. 5 inch isn’t very big, but the backlit provides enough contrast to clearly read all of the info.
You can check things, like; distance covered, current incline percentage, elapsed time and calories burned. This is quite standard display information for a mid-level treadmill, but will be sufficient for most users.
Additionally, the T 6.5s has an EasyLift system which helps to semi-automatically fold and unfold the treadmill belt. The hydraulic system will for the most part fold or unfold the treadmill. This can be useful for users who want to save space after their done. Because they don’t have to do any heavy-lifting.
Keep in mind that it’s semi-automatic, so according to the official documentation you’ll still have to be able to lift 45 lbs to safely lower, raise or move the treadmill.
Easy of assembly 3.5/5
The assembly of this treadmill isn’t super easy, but for most people won’t be too hard either. There are 17 steps which you’ll have to follow in order to install the treadmill. All of the steps are supported by text and most of them by pictures as well.
According to the manual, the assembly of this NordicTrack requires 2 persons. A logical reason for this might be that some of the parts might be too heavy for 1 person. So, please make sure you are not alone while you’re trying to install it.
Lastly, it’s good to be aware of the fact that you’ll need one Philips screwdriver which is not included. It won’t be a big problem for most people, but it’s still kinda weird that they didn’t include one.
How does it compare?
Nautilus T616
Another treadmill that you might want to check out is the Nautilus T616. It’s a higher end treadmill, this treadmill is just like the ProForm ZT8 geared towards serious runners.
The 3 CHP motor, 15% incline and 20 by 60-inch running belt are more than good enough for serious runners.
Ancheer Electric Folding Treadmill
You might have never heard of the brand named ‘Ancheer’, but that doesn’t mean this treadmill isn’t worth a look. One of the things that sets this treadmill apart is the built-in 10.1 inch WIFI color touchscreen, which you can use for entertainment or keeping track of your stats.
With a 15.7 by 49.6-inch running belt the Ancheer provides you with enough space for jogging or running. However, the running belt of the T 6.5S is 20 by 55 inch. So if you want to use your treadmill for running then the T 6.5S might be a better choice.
ProForm ZT8
The ProForm ZT8 with similar features and quality as the T 6.5S by NordicTrack. However, the ZT8 does provide a slightly better running experience.
A larger running belt, more built-in workout programs and a CoolAire Workout fan are things a runner might appreciate. That’s why the ZT8 is probably a better choice for serious runners with higher expectations.