NordicTrack EXP 14i Review: Pros, Cons, Specs and More (2024 Update)
NordicTrack
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Key Features:
- 14-inch HD smart touchscreen
- Bluetooth compatibility
- EasyLift Assist for vertical storage
- FlexSelect cushioning for less impact
- Automatic Trainer Control for speed and incline during trainer-led classes
A treadmill is often hailed as the holy grail of all fitness equipment, and it tends to be one of the most popular buys that people make as they build out their home gyms. The NordicTrack EXP 14i comes with a host of features that make it stand out from competitors. Whether you’re looking for interval training, power walking, light jogging or simply some quick cardio exercise, this mid-priced home gym addition can help you maintain your health and fitness goals.
Read on to learn more about whether or not this machine is worth the buy and what you should know ahead of making a purchase. In addition, we’ll help you learn how to properly use this smart treadmill, including its Automatic Trainer Control and handy EasyLift Assist feature for vertical storage.
Who the NordicTrack EXP 14i Is Best For
As a mid-range smart treadmill, the NordicTrack EXP 14i is an excellent choice for regular treadmill users and those who want a high-tech machine. Even with smart technology like AutoAdjust and ActivePulse Cruise Control (more on these later), it’s relatively simple in nature and comes with 14 built-in workout programs. This means you can easily find your stride without spending too much time plugging in your speed, incline or time. Instead, you can start an instant cardio workout with one-touch controls.
The NordicTrack EXP 14i isn’t necessarily a budget-friendly treadmill, but it offers a fair price range compared to pricier alternatives like the Peloton Tread or the NordicTrack Commercial Series. Instead, the EXP 14i treadmill allows you to test your speed or endurance without breaking the bank. Since this foldable treadmill can also be stored vertically, it’s a space-saving option for those with smaller home gyms or apartments.
If you’re interested in guided cardio workouts, a NordicTrack EXP 14i may be a good fit for you, since the treadmill comes with a free 30-day trial for an iFit membership. This home fitness program nets you thousands of interactive classes led by personal trainers that you can follow from the treadmill’s 14-inch smart HD touchscreen. After the free trial, an iFit subscription costs $15 per month for an individual membership or $39 for a family membership that includes up to four additional users.
Who the NordicTrack EXP 14i Is Not Best For
With a mid- to high-range price point, the NordicTrack EXP 14i may not be the best fit for those who don’t plan to regularly use their treadmill. Also, those looking for a simple treadmill workout may want to seek out a machine with more basic visual or audio features. The EXP 14i comes with a large, 14-inch touchscreen and features like AutoAdjust that may not be worth the price for those who don’t need bells and whistles.
Finally, the warranty may be too limited for some buyers. Currently, the NordicTrack EXP 14i offers a 10-year frame warranty, two-year parts warranty and one-year labor warranty. Since treadmills can last seven to 12 years when cared for properly, the parts and labor portion of the warranty is lacking for the price tag.
What Is the NordicTrack EXP 14i Treadmill?
NordicTrack
The NordicTrack EXP 14i is a folding treadmill designed for home use. It comes with 14 built-in workout programs that include interval training, incline exercises and manual walking or jogging options, among others. A 60-inch long commercial tread belt running surface makes this machine ideal for jogging and running, since a longer tread belt is best for speed or distance running.
The EXP 14i treadmill includes a SpaceSaver Design that makes it a great option for those who are tight on space or exercising in smaller home gyms or workout areas. An EasyLift Assist feature also allows you to quickly fold up the treadmill with just one push, so you can store it up against the wall or away from the floor when you need the extra room for other activities. It has wheels in the base to help you easily transport the machine from one area to another.
This home treadmill comes with Bluetooth capabilities to pair your smartphone, tablet or heart rate monitor. If you don’t want to use headphones or AirPods, you can play sound via the two-inch digitally amplified speakers integrated into the machine. The treadmill has a 14-inch smart HD touchscreen that allows you to access both built-in workout programs and iFit programs.
The NordicTrack EXP 14i includes two water bottle holders on each side of the touchscreen; a device shelf to place a smartphone, tablet or book; textured, non-slip handlebars and a built-in Autobreeze workout fan. Plus, the backlit touchscreen keeps track of your other performance metrics, like time, speed, calories burned and distance.
One feature beneficial for those with joint pain is that the NordicTrack EXP 14i and EXP 10i have a negative three to positive 12 percent decline/incline range to allow for downhill and uphill walking, which can reduce impact on your joints and even prevent deterioration of cartilage around the knees. In addition, the machine is designed with FlexSelect Cushioning that helps absorb shock as you exercise, taking further pressure off of your joints and feet. This setting is optional, however, so you can turn it off.
Related: The NordicTrack Commercial 14.9: Is It The Elliptical For You?
NordicTrack EXP 14i Treadmill Specs
- Weight: 229 pounds
- Dimensions: 79.9-inches L x 59.25-inches H x 35.08-inches W
- Motor: 3.5 CHP Plus Motor
- Incline: -3 to +12 percent
- Speed levels: Zero to 12 miles per hour max speed
- Weight capacity: 300-pound user weight limit
How the NordicTrack EXP 14i Treadmill Works
NordicTrack
The NordicTrack EXP 14i operates much like any other treadmill. First, you power the device on, then you select your workout setting or program. You can exercise with a manual mode, where you simply adjust the speed or incline with the one-touch controls. Otherwise, you can select one of the iFit exercises or 14 pre-programmed workouts on the 14-inch touchscreen for interval training, uphill walking and more.
As you exercise, the EXP 14i will track your performance metrics like distance, time, speed and calories burned. To listen to music, you can connect your smart device via Bluetooth. If you decide to follow a fitness class through the iFit subscription program, the class will play directly on the treadmill’s touchscreen. Once you’re finished, you simply power off the treadmill.
The Pros of the NordicTrack EXP 14i
The NordicTrack EXP 14i comes with several pros, two of which are its 14 pre-programmed workouts and its foldable design, complete with EasyLift Assist for fast storage. Its 14-inch smart HD touchscreen is another bonus, since having a large touchscreen console makes it easier to adjust settings. If you want to hand over control and just run, the AutoAdjust feature gives fitness class trainers control of your speed and incline based on their cues. FlexSelect cushioning is also helpful, especially if you have joint pain or injuries; this feature helps alleviate some pressure from your joints. The ActivePulse Cruise Control technology enables the machine to keep your pace in your optimal heart-rate zone, though a SmartBeat Forearm Heart Rate Monitor is required to use this feature, and it’s sold separately. Overall, it’s nice to have numerous workouts to choose from and the comfort features built into NordicTrack EXP 14i treadmill.
The Cons of the NordicTrack EXP 14i
With the pros come some cons. Despite its diverse workout program offerings and comfort features, the NordicTrack EXP 14i falls short in a few categories. Its sound system is very basic for the price, it doesn’t include an EKG Grip Pulse heart rate monitor and the SmartBeat heart rate monitor is required to use the ActivePulse Cruise Control feature. Also, the iFit membership costs extra after the included one-month membership trial ends. Overall, for $1,899, one might expect better audio and technology that doesn’t require additional purchases.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing the NordicTrack EXP 14i Treadmill
NordicTrack
Cost and subscriptions
The NordicTrack EXP 14i has a mid-to-high-level price point of $1,899, so it’s not a budget buy. Still, it’s significantly less expensive than higher-end treadmills like the Peloton Tread or NordicTrack Commercial Series. Keep in mind that in order to access on-demand fitness classes led by personal trainers, you’ll also need to purchase an iFit subscription. This costs $15 per month for an individual membership or $39 for an iFit family membership. Otherwise, you can go without a subscription and use the treadmill’s 14 pre-programmed workouts.
Before deciding on the EXP 14i, consider your overall budget and if you want a subscription to a fitness platform; if you do want a subscription, be sure to consider how much you’re able to pay per month and how that cost fits alongside other recurring monthly expenses. Lastly, be sure that the treadmill’s features feel fair to you for the price point; if not, it’s best to look at other brands.
Speed and incline
The EXP 14i is best-suited for power walking, jogging and running. If you’re looking for a basic treadmill model, this isn’t it. With max speeds of up to 12 miles per hour, the EXP 14i is best for faster runners and those who run long distances. The incline goes beyond the standard range of zero to 10 percent, with a decline-to-incline range of negative three to positive 12 percent. This is good for uphill climbing, but for those who want an extra steep incline, you may want to seek out a treadmill with a max incline of 15 percent.
Size
Overall, the NordicTrack EXP 14i has an average treadmill footprint of 79.9-inches long x 35.08-inches wide x 59.25-inches tall. If this footprint is too big for your workout area or home gym, remember the treadmill can be folded for vertical storage. If you want to leave your treadmill unfolded, carefully measure your space to make sure it fits; leave several feet on each side for space to get on or off the machine. The 20-inch wide x 60-inch long running belt—AKA the area where you actually walk or run—works for walking, running and sprinting, though it's a few inches narrower than other treadmill belts we’ve seen.
Screen
With a 14-inch smart HD touchscreen, the NordicTrack EXP 14i has an edge over competitors’ display consoles. It’s important to consider how big of a screen you’d like before making a purchase. A larger screen will likely be easier to read and will amplify any classes or programs that you watch on it, but it will add to the price of the machine. For similar features and a lower price, consider the EXP 10i, which has a 10-inch touchscreen, or the EXP 7i, with a seven-inch touchscreen.
Training programs
With 14 preset training programs, NordicTrack EXP 14i users will get a diverse variety of workout options that includes interval training and more. If preset programs are your goal, this treadmill will deliver. However, if you’re looking for personal trainer-led classes, you’ll need to invest in an iFit membership for an additional cost. Either way, those who want neither can always use the treadmill on a manual setting where they adjust speed and incline on their own.
Assembly
NordicTrack treadmills typically take anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes to assemble. Each treadmill comes with detailed assembly instructions that are generally easy to follow, but it’s always best to have two people to assemble the machine to speed up the process. If you don’t want to assemble the treadmill on your own, you can purchase NordicTrack’s white glove delivery service to both deliver and assemble the treadmill in your room of choice for $199.
Warranty and return policy
Having a good warranty for major buys like fitness equipment is essential in the event that your machine breaks down or needs repair. Currently, the NordicTrack EXP 14i is covered by a 10-year frame warranty, two-year parts warranty and one-year labor warranty. Treadmills can last anywhere from seven to 12 years or more when cared for properly, so the parts and labor warranty may feel too limited for some buyers.
The return policy is also lacking; NordicTrack allows for returns of products within 30 days upon receipt. However, returns will be charged a return shipping fee of $250 plus a 10 percent restocking fee, so you can expect to be out hundreds of dollars in the event that your NordicTrack EXP 14i treadmill just isn’t working for you. Shipping and delivery charges aren’t refundable, as well. To help avoid this issue, it’s important to be 100 percent sure this treadmill is right for you and that it fits in your space before making a purchase.
Comparing the NordicTrack EXP 14i Treadmill
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill
For a low price of just $499.99, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 meets basic needs for walking, jogging and running (you can also invest in an under-desk treadmill for a similar price). This simple, no-frills treadmill includes an LCD screen that tracks metrics and a manual incline system to raise or lower the machine; keep in mind, however, that you’ll need to get off of the machine every time you want to change your incline.
While the cost of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 is less than half the cost of NordicTrack EXP 14i, the reduced price point also results in significantly reduced features. With only nine workout programs and no touchscreen capabilities, it’s a much less luxurious buy. However, like the EXP 14i, the SF-T4400 also has an easy folding mechanism for vertical storage. If you’re looking for a budget treadmill that you can put away when needed, the SF-T4400 will likely meet your needs. That being said, the EXP 14i offers a much more robust workout experience and fitness programming if you’re willing to pay more.
ProForm Pro 2000 Treadmill
The ProForm Pro 2000 treadmill costs only $100 less than the NordicTrack EXP 14i, coming in at $1,799.99, compared with $1,899 for the EXP 14i. The two machines are remarkably similar, which makes sense since both brands are owned by Icon Health & Fitness. The main difference is in the quantity of workout programs. Like the EXP 14i, the ProForm Pro 2000 is compatible with iFit and comes with a month trial of the iFit experience; however, the Pro 2000 comes with a huge library of 50 pre-programmed workouts, compared with 14 on the EXP 14i.
Otherwise, these treadmills have almost identical specs, including a negative three to positive 12 percent incline range and zero to 12 miles per hour speed range. Both are also foldable, Bluetooth connected and compatible with AutoAdjust technology. The Pro 2000 touchscreen is only 10-inches, compared to the 14-inch touchscreen on the EXP 14i, but both displays are HD. Overall, if you plan to use the iFit membership, the NordicTrack EXP 14i is the better choice, but if you want pre-programmed workouts that don’t require an iFit subscription, go with the ProForm Pro 2000.
Echelon Stride Treadmill
The Echelon Stride treadmill has a lower price point than the NordicTrack EXP 14i; at $1,299.99, it costs roughly $600 less than the NordicTrack. Similar to the EXP 14i, the Stride comes with an option to subscribe to its Echelon Fit program for $34.99 per month. This will net you access to thousands of live and on-demand fitness classes with personal trainers. The Stride also has a max running speed of 12 miles per hour, and can hold up well to running, long distance training or high-speed sprints.
If you decide to go with a subscription, the Stride offers a more interactive and diverse workout experience. However, if you stick with pre-programmed offerings, the EXP 14i remains the better option. The Stride has only eight preset workouts, while the EXP 14i has 14. Overall, both machines are quality options, but the EXP 14i is better suited to runners who want to use the iFit membership connectivity features, while the Stride is better for budget consumers.
Related Post: Peloton Tread vs NordicTrack Treadmills
NordicTrack Treadmill FAQs
Is the NordicTrack EXP 14i Bluetooth compatible?
Yes, NordicTrack EXP 14i is Bluetooth compatible with your smartphone, tablet, Bluetooth headphones and some heart rate monitors. You can also connect to the iFit workouts Smart Cardio Equipment app if you have a subscription, but the program can be accessed through the treadmill touchscreen, as well.
How do I reset my NordicTrack EXP 14i?
Sometimes, you may need to reset your NordicTrack EXP 14i. This could be to recalibrate your machine following a power outage or to reset any glitches like an incline that isn’t working. First, make sure your treadmill is powered off. While you can turn the machine off with the power switch, the best option is to unplug it entirely.
On the side of your console should be a small, pinhole-sized hole. Unfold a paperclip and insert the paperclip into the hole until you feel a switch click inside the console. After the click, replug and turn on your NordicTrack EXP 14i. Keep the paperclip inserted into the pinhole until the screen turns on and shows an iFit logo, followed by a system recovery message. Once both appear, remove the paperclip, and the machine should reset.
Does the NordicTrack EXP 14i fold for storage?
Yes, NordicTrack EXP 14i easily folds for storage. That’s because it has a SpaceSaver Design with an EasyLift Assist feature that allows you to fold up the treadmill with just one push. Once the machine is folded, it can be stored vertically against a wall or in a larger closet. The base of the treadmill also has transport wheels, so you can move it from one area to another.
What’s the difference between the NordicTrack T 6.5 Si treadmill and EXP 14i treadmill?
The NordicTrack T 6.5 Si treadmill is now discontinued, but it was a similar model to the EXP 14i treadmill. At the time of publication, the T 6.5 Si model is still available secondhand, but no longer sold directly through NordicTrack.
Final Thoughts
The NordicTrack EXP 14i is a good treadmill for those looking for dynamic, live jogging and running workouts. Its space-saving design also makes it an attractive addition to smaller home gyms or apartments where foldable fitness equipment is necessary to save room. This treadmill lends itself well to running or high-speed workouts, since its top speed is 12 miles per hour. If you don’t mind the extra cost for high-tech additions like the AutoAdjust feature, this is an excellent smart treadmill. To get your money’s worth, we recommend using it with the iFit subscription.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
