The NordicTrack T 8.5 S treadmill is the third T-series model introduced by the brand. Meant primarily for home use, this is a solid piece of equipment with plenty of features to offer productive workout sessions.

Here’s everything we like (or don’t) about the T 8.5 S:

• 10-inch HD Full-Colour Touchscreen 

Being 3 inches larger than the one on the T 7.5 S, this screen also has fewer customer complaints. While it may lag sometimes, the firmware on this treadmill is better than the on prior iterations, which often caused screen freezing issues. The full-color console screen is iFit-integrated and displays your workout stats too.

• 3.5 CHP Quiet Motor

NordicTrack treadmills are known for their quietness, and the T 8.5 S doesn’t disappoint in this regard. An upgrade over the 3.0 CHP motor of the T 7.5 S, the improved motor power is a welcome upgrade and gives you additional comfort in the durability of this machine.  

• iFit Compatibility with Free 1-Year Family Access

Like all NordicTrack machines, you can enjoy iFit on this one too. Create up to four user profiles and enjoy year-long access, free of cost. We love how the app offers impressively realistic walks on virtual locations of your choice. You can also choose to get sweaty with trainer-controlled workouts, take up new challenges, or track your stats, all through iFit. 

• 22 km/h Max Speed and 12% Max Incline

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to challenge yourself with the T 8.5 S. Like the 7.5 model, this one also offers top speeds up to 22 km/h and 12 incline levels.

• 51 x 152 cm Tread Belt with FlexSelect™ Cushioning

One good thing about NordicTrack is how they value user comfort. The cushioning feature creates a shock-absorbing surface, and we love how it doesn’t strain the joints even at higher speeds. You can choose to turn it off if you’re training for road-running, however. The belt is also good enough for most people, although an inch or so slimmer than the Commercial treadmill models.

• Space-saving, Foldable Design

If you’re someone who loves keeping things compact, you’ll appreciate how all the T-series treadmills fold up. While the footprint isn’t very compact when unfolded, it can free up your floor after every session – the EasyLift Assist™ technology makes it convenient.

• EKG Handgrips

The heart rate sensors on this treadmill are integrated into its handlebars. It doesn’t have the chest strap that comes with higher-end NordicTrack machines, but it can function well enough.

Other Features

Dual 2-inch speakers and a workout fan similar to the T 7.5 S are additional features worth mentioning. While the 1.9″ rollers may be good enough for home use, they won’t have the superior durability of the 2.5” rollers on Commercial models like the 1750.