My Comparison of the Sole F80 and NordicTrack Commercial 1750 Treadmills
When considering the purchase of a new home treadmill, two popular models often come up: the Sole F80 and the NordicTrack Commercial 1750, which tend to run around the same price point. I happen to be a big fan of both and have used them extensively. Without getting too deep into the philosophical realm here, they really do represent two completely different concepts when it comes to home exercise in terms of workout programming. If I were to spend less than a minute talking with a person, I’d know immediately which one is right for them, and would certainly say they both represent a best of breed so to speak. My comparison here will cover key features, pros, and cons to help potential buyers make an informed decision. But if you want my answer in a nutshell, here it is. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is the go-to for all things streaming by way of iFit, the best interactive app on the market with automatic trainer control over the machine as well as live workouts. Meanwhile, the Sole F80 brings the better built-in workout routines and a more basic, yet free, Sole+ app. At the end of the day, the treadmills are effectively the same price.
Feature Comparison between the Sole F80 and the NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Here’s the specs side by side for each treadmill:
| Feature | Sole F80 | NordicTrack Commercial 1750 |
|---|---|---|
| Motor | 3.5 CHP | 3.5 CHP |
| Running Surface | 22″ x 60″ | 20″ x 60″ |
| Incline Range | 0-15 levels | -3% to 12% |
| Speed Range | 0.5 – 12 mph | 0.5 – 12 mph |
| Display | 10.1″ LCD | 14″ HD Tilt/Pivot Touchscreen |
| Weight Capacity | 350 lbs | 400 lbs |
| Built-In Programs | 10, 12 user-defined | iFit |
| Folding Mechanism | Easy Assist Folding | SpaceSaver Design |
| Cushioning System | CushionFlex Whisper Deck | Runners Flex Cushioning |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | 82″ L x 38″ W x 66″ H | 80″ L x 38″ W x 65″ H |
| Warranty | Lifetime frame and motor, 3 years deck and parts, 1 years labor | 10 years frame, 2 years parts, 1 year labor |
| Best Price | Check Best Price | Check Best Price |
I’ve run on both of these decks extensively and, as a result am able to give you a personal, expert opinion on the two treadmills.
These two treadmills are often compared against each other. They are the two powerhouse treadmills that bring the gym treadmill experience into your home gym. In my case, I test my treadmills in my gym in my barn — side by side, testing each. Right off the bat, you’ll notice that the Sole F80 is two inches wider than the NordicTrack model. I’m 5’10 and both work well enough for me, but for larger or smaller individuals this might make a difference. I mention smaller because yes, I’ve found a treadmill can be too big for some folks. When it comes to the actual deck construction, frankly the Sole F80 has a lot going for it in this match-up. This model sports 2.36″ rollers compared to the NordicTrack’s 1.9″ rollers. As I outline in my piece on Treadmill Decks and Belts Explained here, the rollers are the steel cylinders at either end of the deck which pull the belt. The market for home treadmills sees roller sizes ranging from 1.5″ to 3″ and as a rule, the bigger the better for smooth operation and motor longevity. Heavier rollers will better keep the belt in alignment and prevent stress from the motor. Both treadmills feature a 2-ply belt, which is preferable to a cheaper 1-ply, but in terms of longevity, you’re more likely to get more miles out of the Sole deck, belt, and motor due to the roller size.
Where you’re really going to see the difference in philosophy is in the workout programming. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is an iFit-enabled machine and quite frankly, da bomb when it comes to interactive programming. No, there are no built-in workouts, and that’s the point. What you’ll get is a dynamic 14″ high-definition touchscreen which both swivels, pivots and tilts, and is built to work with the iFit app. In my experience, there’s no better paid workout app on the market than iFit. You get live trainer-led workouts as well as on-demand programs, and automatic trainer control to boot. What automatic trainer control means is either the trainer or program can take control of the machine and adjust the resistance to match the routine. This also works with iFit’s ActivePulse Technology, whereby a Bluetooth heart rate monitor can do the same thing. So, as I’m hiking along the Swiss Alps virtually, along with a trainer-led program reminiscent of National Geographic, the machine will raise and lower the speed and incline, but if my heart rate gets off target it can oh so smartly inform me of the adjustment to be made. The iFit library of workouts contains tens of thousands of programs ranging from strength to yoga, mindfulness, and nutrition. It’s downloadable and can travel with you anywhere you go, or on a smart television, it stores all of your data and can do just about anything but tie your shoes. This program works in sync with any NordicTrack, ProForm, or Freemotion equipment, meaning if you later decide to add a rower or bike to the gym, it’s part of the same package and one membership will cover all units. If you’re into interactive training, there’s simply no better program on the market. NordicTrack routines offers specials in terms of iFit pricing, but typically you’re looking at $15 per month for an individual or $39 per month for the five-profile family plan. And while the screen will not work with other apps or programs, it will work without iFit. Without that app, what you’ll have is a basic manual mode in which you can adjust your own speed and incline while walking on their virtual track.
In the other corner of course, is the Sole F80. And what I really like about the Sole machines is they take the exact opposite approach to NordicTrack in that they offer smaller fixed screens with a most handy tablet holder, and stack you up with built-in programs. The Sole F80 comes compatible with the cost-free Sole+ app, and with that, 3,000 on-demand trainer-led workouts across multiple styles of exercise. As far as cost-free apps go, it’s the tops. But in my own use of the 10 built-in workouts, 12 user-defined, I have yet to run out of options. The Sole+ workouts range from beginner to advanced, and as a downloadable app, they can travel anywhere any time. You can also download this onto a smart television and park your treadmill in front of it. This app also works with all Sole equipment, from dumbbells to rowers and bikes, and features heart rate training in conjunction with the Bluetooth monitor available from this brand. And again, I have to mention that this is completely free. The Sole F80’s 10.1″ touchscreen not only displays workout metrics, but interacts with the Sole+ app. Meanwhile, the tablet holder is a nifty attachment at the top of the monitor and can be used to hold anything from an iPad to a smartphone. The F80 also offers a wireless charging station.
So at the end of the day the big question is, do you want to pay for iFit connectivity? In my experience, the iFit videos are of a higher-quality, and some remind me of actual television shows. To that degree, it’s a bit like the Peloton phenomenon in biking which has a cult-like following. The iFit program is a high-quality universe in and to itself with automatic trainer control and smart AI everything. But, if you opt out of the monthly fee, you have a manual mode and that’s it. Meanwhile, over on the Sole F80, you wind up with a lot more varied options that might not be as dazzling, but I’ve found the average users to love. Even a top-notch jock won’t outgrow the built-in programming offered by Sole, so the question comes down to just how interested you are in interactive training. The Sole brand as a whole tends to put a few more dollars into the machine itself, hence the bigger rollers, but NordicTrack’s investment is in the workout technology associated with its programming and automatic trainer control of the incline, decline, and speeds.
Given the specs, what are the pro’s and cons between the two treadmills?
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 fits easily into any home.
| Sole F80 | NordicTrack 1750 |
|---|---|
| Pros: | Pros: |
| – Larger 2.36″ rollers | – iFit programming and automatic trainer control |
| – Lifetime warranty on frame and motor | – -3% decline capability as well as 12% incline |
| – Built-in workouts and free Sole+ app | – 14″ HD touchscreen display with pivot and tilt |
| – Effective cushioning system | – Bluetooth ActivePulse heart rate technology |
| Cons: | Cons: |
| – Smaller 10.1″ touchscreen | – Shorter warranty on frame and parts |
| – No decline feature | – Very iFit-dependent |
| – Less advanced display technology | – Slightly higher price due to iFit membership |
The Sole F80 does has an incline up to 15 levels.
A More Detailed Comparison
Motor and Performance
Both the Sole F80 and NordicTrack Commercial 1750 are equipped with a 3.5 CHP motor. Both provide robust performance suitable for a range of users, from walkers to serious runners. As we outline in our piece here, Treadmill Motors: What You Need to Know, a 3.5 CHP is sufficient for running at speeds over 6mph multiple times per week. In my own experience, both Sole and NordicTrack produce a top-flight motor and I’ve never had a problem with either.
Running Surface
The Sole F80 features a spacious 22″ x 60″ running surface compared to the NordicTrack Commerical 1750’s 20″ x 60″ deck. Believer it or not, the extra two inches in width can make a big difference depending on your own size and wingspan. The Sole F80 has 2.36″ rollers compared to the NordicTrack’s 1.9″ units, which accommodates users of various heights and running styles comfortably.
Incline and Speed Range
Now here’s the point of interest. The Sole F80 provides an incline range of 0-15 levels, which actually max out at 12%, not 15%. I’ve tested this myself using a digital level. The fact is, a manufacturer can have as many “levels” as they want within various percentage points. The NordicTrack 1750 offers both a -3% decline and a 12% incline, producing more versatility in workout intensity. Both models have a speed range of 0.5 to 12 mph.
Display and Programs
The Sole F80 has a 10.1″ HD touchscreen, while the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is equipped with a more advanced 14″ HD touchscreen that swivels, pivots, and tilts. The NordicTrack model also sports dual 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wi-fi connectivity and uses an Android 9 OS system. Both units have Bluetooth speakers and sync with Bluetooth headphones. The Sole F80 brings 10 built-in programs, 12 user-defined, plus access to the free Sole+ app. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is iFit-enabled and works with that program to afford you automatic trainer control and ActivePulse heart rate training.
Cushioning and Folding Mechanism
Both treadmills feature effective cushioning systems designed to reduce impact on joints. The Sole F80 uses the CushionFlex Whisper Deck, and the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 utilizes Runners Flex Cushioning. Both models offer convenient folding mechanisms; the F80 with its Easy Assist Folding and the 1750 with its SpaceSaver Design.
Additional Features
Both treadmills come with Bluetooth connectivity for easy syncing with fitness apps and devices. The Sole F80 supports a user weight capacity at 350 lbs compared to the NordicTrack Commercial 1750’s 400 lbs.
Warranty and Dimensions
The Sole F80 offers a more comprehensive warranty with lifetime coverage on the frame and motor, 3 years on parts and deck, and 1 year on labor. In contrast, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 provides a 10-year frame warranty, with 2 years on parts and 1 year on labor. In terms of size, the Sole F80 is slightly more compact, making it more suitable for smaller spaces.
Which would I recommend? They are both great treadmills!
In terms of price, both models float in the same range of $1,899 to $2,000 depending on the daily special, and both are the perfect treadmill….depending on what you want. The NordicTrack Commercial 1750’s iFit connectivity brings you the flashier and frankly more innovative workout technology, definitely the best I’ve ever seen in a home unit. If you don’t mind paying the subscription fee of $15 to $39 per month, you can immerse yourself in the coolest workout universe around by way of a pivoting, swiveling, and tilting 14″ HD touchscreen. But, if what you’re wanting is simpler built-in workouts and maybe a free app like the Sole+, then for the same money that can be all yours with the F80. I think machine for machine they’re pretty equal given the NordicTrack model does offer the 3% decline which can definitely come in handy for hill training, but the F80 has bigger rollers and a better warranty.