When it comes to selecting a top-notch treadmill equipped with iFit, the NordicTrack T 6.5 S and T 8.5 S are two models that frequently find themselves in direct competition.
Both the NordicTrack T 6.5 S and the T 8.5 S are popular treadmills with very similar features. We recommend the T 8.5 S because it has a more powerful motor (3.5 HP vs. 2.6 HP), a larger running area, a cooling fan, and a 10-inch HD color touchscreen.
The NordicTrack T 6.5 S is a compact, reliable, and user-friendly treadmill that offers great value for its price. It comes with features that make it ideal for casual walkers and runners.
With a 2.6 CHP motor and a 10% incline capability, it provides a challenging workout for the average user. The 20 onboard workout programs, coupled with an easy-to-read LCD screen, give users varied and dynamic exercise options.
Moreover, it includes FlexSelect cushioning that can be adjusted to mimic the hardness of outdoor surfaces or provide a softer deck for low-impact workouts.
Its foldable design, aided by an EasyLift hydraulic system, makes it easy to store when not in use.
The NordicTrack T 8.5 S is a compact, foldable treadmill from NordicTrack’s T-Series. It comes equipped with a 10” touchscreen that displays iFit filled with classes and content.
Key features of the NordicTrack T 8.5 S include FlexSelect™ Cushioning designed to create a solid foot strike and healthy toe-off while also providing comfort and joint support. It has a 20” x 60” commercial tread belt, which gives enough space while running. It’s powered by a 3.5 CHP DurX™ Commercial Plus Motor that supports walking, jogging, and running.
Additionally, it includes a 30-day NordicTrack iFit® membership, 50 onboard workout programs, 0-12% incline, and a max speed of 12mph. The NordicTrack T 8.5 S treadmill comes with a 10-year frame warranty, a 2-year parts warranty, and a 1-year labor warranty.
Spec Comparison
NordicTrack T 6.5 S Specs
NordicTrack T 8.5 S Specs
Running Area
When choosing a treadmill consider how you will use the treadmill mostly and the space available in your room. An 18-inch belt is suitable for walking. For runners, we recommend 20 inches or wider.
The length of a belt can vary from 50” to 65”. 55 inches will work for most people but, if you’re taller than 6 feet go longer.
20″ x 55″
20″ x 60″
Foldable
Foldable treadmills allow you to fold up the machine in seconds and store away to conserve space. Both treadmills are easy to fold up.
Motor Power (HP)
The more power a treadmill motor has the faster it’ll be at changing speeds. We recommended treadmills with a motor of at least 2.5 horsepower or more.
Maximum Weight Capacity (LBS)
Maximum Speed (MPH)
Today there are many entry-level treadmills that reach 12 mph. 10 mph is the minimum speed for running, but we recommend you to get one that can reach 12 mph.
Incline, Decline Features
0 – 10% Incline
0 – 12% Incline
Heart Rate Monitor
Knowing your heart rate during a workout is important for maximum fitness benefits. Today we have many methods to measure our heart rate, but a built-in heart rate monitor has other advantages, like heart rate oriented workout programs.
Heart rate monitoring on the NordicTrack T 6.5 S is facilitated by the Dual CardioGrip™ Heart Rate Monitor. The handrails of the treadmill are fitted with heart rate sensors. A horizontal handrail that extends in front of the console is designed to provide a comfortable grip while reading your heart rate.
Heart rate monitoring on the NordicTrack T 8.5 S is executed via EKG Grip Pulse sensors located on the handlebars. This method provides real-time heart rate readings, allowing you to monitor your cardiovascular performance and stay in the optimal heart rate zone for your specific fitness goals.
Console and Display Properties
The console of the NordicTrack T 6.5 S is designed with simplicity and user convenience in mind. It features a 5-inch backlit LCD screen that clearly displays key workout data such as distance, duration, calories burned, incline, and speed. The console is not a touchscreen, so all controls are placed underneath the screen.
The buttons are large and brightly colored, making it easy to select your desired workout program.
The console is also iFit and iPod compatible, adding a touch of interactive training and entertainment possibilities
The console of the NordicTrack T 8.5 S treadmill is designed with user experience in mind. It features a 10” Smart HD Touchscreen, which is full-color and provides a clear and vibrant display of your workout stats and iFit classes. Additionally, it offers Bluetooth® Audio capabilities, allowing you to listen to your favorite workout playlist seamlessly.
The console also includes Dual 2” Digitally Amplified Speakers, an AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan, and an Integrated Tray.
One Touch® Controls make it simple to adjust your workout settings. Furthermore, the console provides access to 50 onboard workout programs, offering a diverse range of training options without requiring a subscription to iFit
Touch Screen
Cooling Fan
Tech-Features and Connectivity
- Digitally adjust your incline up to 10 percent to add intensity to your workout and target specific muscle groups
- Create your own custom workout using Google Maps
- Plug your ipod or other MP3 device into the console sound System to stay motivated with your workout playlist
- 10-inch HD full-color capacitive touch display
- iFit coach ready, you can use iFit’s interactive workouts
- Plug your ipod or other MP3 device into the console sound System to stay motivated with your workout playlist
- 0-12% Digital Quick Incline control
Warranty
NordicTrack T 6.5 S comes with a 10-years frame, 2 years parts and 1-year labor warranty.
NordicTrack T 8.5 S comes with a 10-years frame, 2 years parts and 1-year labor warranty.