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superfreakinlonely · 5 years

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Welcome to our best and worst keyboards out of 2019. It’s been a good year in terms of unique releases and we are going to go over our favorites.

Best: Ducky One 2 SF

The first keyboard I want to highlight as one of my best on the list is the Ducky One 2 SF. This is a 65% keyboard that this portable, affordable, cute in some ways, and it’s currently on my workstation desk. It has got so many great features including dedicated arrow keys, as well as Delete, Page Up and Page Down. It basically has the same functionality on the right side as a TKL keyboard, but much smaller, and since the F keys are built into the top row you’re also saving space there. We have a removable non-braided USB Type-C cable, and an extra set of colored accent key caps for white or black models. The key caps are Double Shot PBT with beautiful light shine through, although with some inconsistencies here and there. The stabilizers are fine, the space bar is beautiful, and you can pick this board up with many flavors of MX switches. Speaking of which, this is by far the smoothest and most satisfying MX Brown keyboard that I’ve used due to its soft tactile point. I personally don’t use any of the secondary functionalities like mouse navigation, but it’s really cool to have them built-in. Plus you can record all types of macros to secondary layers or different profiles to really make this keyboard your own.

Best: SteelSeries Apex Pro

The next worthy keyboard on my list is the SteelSeries Apex Pro. This model comes in full-size and TKL options, and comes with many add-on features like a full-sized illuminated USB passthrough port for peripherals, very comfortable magnetic wrist rest, and monochrome display. That display is pretty useless outside of showing .GIF’s or helping you change up colour or profiles without accessing the software, so in that sense it’s actually pretty useful. The best thing about the keyboard are the new OmniPoint switches that are linear and smooth. They remind me of Gateron Red switches that I absolutely love. They are light at 45 grams and have adjustable actuation point that you can set yourself between 0.4mm to 3.6mm. This gives you an option to create your own speed switch by setting the actuation point to be quite high, which is so cool. Or if you love to bottom out and want a totally different feeling keyboard set the maximum actuation to 3.6mm. We have seen similar designs from Wooting keyboards, by letting you set the actuation point among a range, but it’s awesome to have more options on the market, especially from a mainstream gaming brand like SteelSeries. Now we have adjustable actuation points for the masses… that is if you’re willing to spend a lot of money, as both versions of the Apex Pro are quite expensive.

Best: Razer Huntsman TE

Let’s move on to the next special keyboard, the Razer Huntsman TE, which I just reviewed it after two months of hands-on time. This is the gaming TKL keyboard that surprised everyone in the community because Razer listened and delivered. We have got a removable USB Type-C cable that you can swap for something custom and fancy. The bottom row is standard for key cap swapping. The included key caps are Double Shot PBT with a coarse texture that feels nice, but picks up dust on the sides over time. There are some lighting inconsistencies throughout, but otherwise the illumination is absolutely beautiful and bright. This keyboard comes equipped with Razer’s Red optical switches that are insanely fast and light, actuating at 1.0mm and only requiring 40 grams of force to actuate. This switch will not be for everyone, it took me about a week to get used to it, and after two months of usage I still sometimes rest my fingers on the keys and activate Shift, A, W, or the space bar. With this keyboard you just have to be cautious because the keys are so light, the weight of your hand, and your fingers will depress the keys. Nevertheless, this is definitely my keyword of choice for gaming, and if fast and light switches are what you crave the Huntsman TE is an easy recommendation for me. Having said that, be aware that this is a pretty noise keyboard, the switches are certainly not silent.

Best: DREVO BladeMaster TE

The last best keyboard I have on the list is the DREVO BladeMaster TE. This one is also a TKL keyboard, but it is quite basic and affordable. I don’t mind the angular frame, it’s still low-profile, but not just a rectangular slab. The bottom row is standard for key cap swapping. The cable unfortunately is non-removable, but it is non-braided and quite flexible, which is nice. The key caps are standard ABS, but we have this multifunction wheel on the side that you can macro to suit your workstyle and game play. This model is offered with four flavors of Gateron switches, with Reds being my favourite, which is why I love this keyboard so much. There is also a PRO Wireless version of the BladeMaster with Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connectivity. This one comes with MX Cherry switches, a USB Type-C cable, a silver body instead of black, and the same custom wheel on the left side. I would actually not recommend the wireless model because the wireless connectivity has been kind of wonky after the review, so switching between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz did not fully work as advertised. This is why I would still recommend the BladeMaster TE, because it’s wired, it’s still the one I use today, and it has a very quiet sound profile.

Worst: Logitech G Pro X

Alright, switching gears, let’s talk about the most disappointing keyboard of the year for me, the Logitech G Pro X. This is so unfortunate because I love the original model. I will say that I love seeing hot-swappable switches on a mainstream gaming brand keyboard. You don’t need to buy Logitech-branded Kailh switches, although they do recommend it because of some tolerances, but don’t listen to them. My Halo Clear switches fit just fine. They did not update the connection, it’s still using micro USB. The bottom row is not standardized despite having such an awesome feature like swappable switches, the key caps are glossy ABS, and the price is too high. At $150 USD for the keyboard and $50 USD for a set of switches, that is just too much when things like the $110 Glorious GMMK TKL exist. That models offers a swappable frame, just like the G PRO X, with so many switch variations, but at a much lower price point. I love the G Pro X keyboard, but having a hot-swappable frame doesn’t justify its price. They should have done more.

Now let’s hear what Eber and Mike have to say about their best and worst keyboards.

Eber’s Choices

Eber: So my pick for the best keyboard of 2019 has to go to the Logitech MX Keys. Ever since I reviewed this keyboard it has been my daily driver, because I love the low-profile nature of this keyboard. Most importantly, Logitech Flow is absolutely fantastic with this keyboard. I’m using the Master 3 mouse along with this keyboard, and I can easily switch between my notebook and my desktop PC while using a single pair of peripherals, which is awesome. The keys themselves have great feedback, but it’s obviously not going to give you that same mechanical feel as a traditional mechanical keyboard. The MX Keys is also a wireless keyboard and the battery lasts really long. It charges via a USB Type-C cable and it does support fast charging, which is nice.

Eber: My pick for the worst keyboard of 2019 has to be the Cooler Master SK650. In fact, the whole SK lineup is bad. So why is it my worst keyboard of 2019? Well even though the Cooler Master targeted this as a low-profile mechanical keyboard, it really isn’t low profile at all. Compared to a traditional mechanical keyboard it’s really not that slim, especially next to the MX Keys from Logitech. Furthermore, the switches are absolutely horrible. I mean there’s no life to them when you’re typing. To make things worse, the spacing between individual key caps is not even, and it’s also very sharp, so it makes typing super uncomfortable. The backlighting is also pretty bad, and it’s just way too expensive. Basically, it’s bad all around.

Mike’s Choices

Mike: Okay, so I am not a keyboard guy, but I did have one choice and that is the G.Skill KM360. I like it because it basically goes against what a lot of other companies are trying to do, which is hike up the prices of peripherals as much as they can. This thing is not going to be the best keyboard, but at $50 USD – if you can still find it at that price – it has everything. It has a good frame, it has Cherry MX Red switches, and what I did is I just popped on a $25 HyperX pudding key cap set. With this combination I’ve been using this as my daily driver for gaming for the better part of four months now. It has really held up well and I’m super happy with it.

Mike: Now my choice for the worst keyboard is the Logitech G915. I know some of you will probably say that I’m absolutely crazy, but it’s getting some dust on it because I haven’t been using it. I just don’t like this thing. Unlike what the G.Skill is, this keyboard represents everything that’s wrong with the peripheral space right now, or at least the gaming peripherals. It’s expensive and it tries too hard. It does have a really good wireless connection though. However, at $330 CAD for an oversized “slim” keyboard that’s not really slim, to me this is where peripherals shouldn’t head, especially when you have custom keyboards that offer much better performance and value. There are some some amazing keyboards from Varmilo and Leopold that you can get for a third of the price. Therefore, this is my pick for the worst keyboard of the year.

Alright, so that was fun hearing from the guys. I hope you enjoyed this article. If you have a favorite keyboard of the year, what is it? And do you agree with our choices for worst keyboards selections for 2019? Let me know!

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gethealthy18-blog · 5 years

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10 Best Folding Treadmills Of 2019 – Reviews And Buyer’s Guide

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10 Best Folding Treadmills Of 2019 – Reviews And Buyer’s Guide

10 Best Folding Treadmills Of 2019 – Reviews And Buyer’s Guide Sakshi Bahal Hyderabd040-395603080 December 2, 2019

For most of us, regular exercise feels much like a chore that we would do anything to avoid, especially if that means sleeping in for an hour longer. But those excuses are soon becoming a thing of the past as technology catches up with all the lazy and/or busy folks among us.

The market is now flooded with a whole range of workout equipment designed exclusively for home use. This article is about folding treadmills. Yes, a treadmill for walking, jogging, and running is part of most exercise regimens at any gym. But the most significant deterrent to bringing one home is the sheer size of the device. That’s where a folding treadmill comes in.

We have listed the 10 best folding treadmills you can buy, along with a buyer’s guide. Scroll down to get started!

Table Of Contents

What Is A Folding Treadmill?

A folding treadmill is the perfect space-saving exercise equipment when you want to work out in the comfort and privacy of your apartment. Here, the running deck can pivot up and lock, so you can fold it and put it away after your workout. It also has wheels that make it easy to move from one place to another. A folding treadmill is ideal when you want to stay fit and active without compromising on aesthetics or space in your apartment.

Read on to know more about the best folding treadmills and things you need to keep in mind before investing in one.

Top 10 Folding Treadmills

1. NordicTrack T6.5S Treadmill

NordicTrack T6.5S Treadmill is the latest entry-level addition to the brand’s impressive lineup of treadmills. Its biggest advantage over other starter treadmills is the interactive training it offers through the multi-color, touch-screen console. You can use it to Livestream fitness classes or run trails around the world. If you prefer things old-school, just plug in your iPod or phone and enjoy running with music for company. The multi-speed console fan keeps you cool as you burn those calories.

The inbuilt iFit uses Bluetooth to adjust the incline and speed of your treadmill automatically according to trainer recommendations. You can also change the settings to make the belt mimic firm ground and real-life terrain. The T6.5S gives you a quiet workout at home, and you can use it for walking, jogging, or running with equal ease.

Pros

30-day free iFit trial membership

5” backlit iFit display

Auxiliary music port

Dual 2” digitally amplified speakers

300 lbs. user capacity

Lifetime frame warranty

25-year motor warranty

1-year parts and labor warranty

Cons

Expensive

Buy Now!

2. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T4400 Treadmill has several fantastic features to make your daily workout routine as comfortable and accessible as possible. It has nine built-in workout programs that you can choose from and enjoy more variety as you exercise. There’s also a phone/tablet holder if you decide to work out with your favorite tunes playing.

The SF-T4400 is a folding treadmill, but you need not worry about loud slams or unnecessary clanging while opening it. The soft drop system helps make the process both smooth and silent. It also prevents damage to wood or carpet floors. The LCD screen enables you to track your time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse, so you can stay aware of your fitness goals.

Pros

LCD monitor with tablet holder

9 built-in workout programs

Safety lock function

Power saving function

Convenient handrail control keys

Soft drop folding system

3 manual incline levels

220 lbs user capacity

Cons

Narrow belt

Buy Now!

3. Xterra Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill

Xterra Fitness TR150 Folding Treadmill is an impressive blend of quality, performance, and flexibility. Even though it has been designed to function in a home environment, this treadmill is impressive in helping you get the most out of your workouts without hitting a gym. You can easily fold and store it away when you are done, making it a space saver.

Several features adhere to the user’s performance and comforts, such as the accessible console, the handgrip pulse sensors, the integrated accessory holders, and more. The quiet 2.25HP motor ensures a noiseless workout, so you can exercise in peace without disturbing others at home.

Pros

Large 5 inch LCD

12 preset workout programs

3 manual incline settings

Heavy gauge steel frame

Folding deck design

Integrated accessory holders

Handgrip pulse sensors

Cons

Some parts may get damaged in shipping.

Buy Now!

4. SereneLife Smart Digital Folding Treadmill – SLFTRD18

SereneLife Smart Digital Folding Treadmill – SLFTRD18 uses Bluetooth to sync the device with the FitShow sports app. This app helps transform your boring exercise routine into an exciting fitness session. The treadmill is foldable and portable, so you can set it up and store it with convenience. The LCD screen on this smart digital device shows your running and training data statistics to help you keep track of your progress.

Choose from several preset training modes to enjoy a customized fitness session. You can adjust the speed settings up to 6 mph for a more intense workout. The built-in grip sensors monitor your pulse and display the same on the screen along with run time, distance, speed, heart rate, and calories burned.

Pros

Pairs to a smartphone app using Bluetooth

Large backlit LCD

Powerful with quiet motor

Extended running deck

Soft drop folding system

Transportation wheels for easy portability

Adjustable speed settings

Cons

Belt is not wide enough.

May not be suitable for overweight users.

Buy Now!

5. Confidence Fitness TP-1 Electric Treadmill

Confidence Fitness TP-1 Electric Treadmill is easy on the eyes with a soothing combo of pink and white. This model serves a lot more than just looks. It has a menu of 12 preset programs that you can choose from to give your workouts a dose of variety now and then.

It has a sturdy steel frame, so you can be sure this is a durable piece of equipment. If you still want that beautiful color out of your eyes when you are not exercising, fold it up and store it away until needed again. The backlit LCD screen has an easy-to-read display where you can keep track of your workout statistics and fitness goals.

Pros

12 preset programs

Large backlit LCD screen

Sturdy steel frame

5 quick select preset speeds

Cup holder included

Front-wheel for easy portability

User weight capacity up to 250 lbs.

Cons

Running belt not wide enough.

May not be suitable for taller users.

Buy Now!

6. MaxKare Folding Treadmill

MaxKare Folding Treadmill lets you enjoy the endorphin rush or running and working out within the comfort and privacy of your home. The powerful motor allows for speed adjustment ranging from 0.5 to 8.5 mph. Three manual incline levels enable you to vary your workout according to your needs.

The running belt is 17 inches wide, and the machine is equipped with an innovative anti-shock system that can support a maximum user weight of up to 220 lbs. This keeps your knees protected against injury during exercise. The large LCD and 15 preset programs give you a varied and comprehensive workout, with easy-to-track data on your fitness statistics.

Pros

LCD with 15 preset programs

Heart rate monitor

5HP pure-copper motor

5 to 8.5MPH available speed

220 lbs of maximum weight support

Anti-shock system

Cons

May not be suitable for taller users

Machine not as quiet as advertised

Buy Now!

7. Ravent Folding Treadmill

Ravent Folding Treadmill is a convenient workout solution when coping with a busy lifestyle that leaves you no time to go to the gym. It is portable and foldable, so you can use it in the comfort of your home and put it away when not in use. It features multiple workout programs, several speed settings, and a backlit display where you can track distance, time, and calories burned.

There’s also a pulse monitor to measure and notify you of your heart rate. The secure folding mechanism and soft drop system on this treadmill help you unfold your treadmill safely without unwanted banging or clanging. It is available in attractive shades like silver, white, and orange.

Pros

Sturdy steel frame

Handrail controls to speed up, start, and stop

Wheels for easy portability

Safety clip for an automatic stop

220 lbs weight capacity

1-year warranty

Cons

Short handles

May not be suitable for taller users.

Buy Now!

8. Merax Electric Folding Treadmill

Merax Electric Folding Treadmill lets you work out the way you want to: comfortably at home, with your favorite music blasting in the background. It has a compact footprint and a convenient folding design that is easy to set up and store away. It is easy to start, stop, or switch speeds using quick touch buttons conveniently placed on the side handles.

This Merax treadmill also features a specially designed, high-density running belt with a lawn texture. It is shock-absorbing and non-slippery to give you superior comfort and safety. The sturdy frame is capable enough to support serious runners who prefer long-distance running sessions. For constant motivation, the LCD tracks your time, speed, distance, and calories burnt.

Pros

12 preset programs

3 count-down modes

Quiet 1.5HP treadmill motor

Multi-functional LCD

Wheels for easy portability

Supports maximum user weight up to 240 lbs

Cons

Speedometer may be inaccurate.

The belt is too narrow.

Buy Now!

9. Juane Folding Treadmill

Juane Folding Treadmill is a durable piece of workout equipment that blends a sturdy design with easy space-saving functionality. Burn calories regularly with your preferred workout, without having to disturb others at home – the low noise motor takes care of that. Whether your ultimate goal is weight loss or just staying in shape, the Juane treadmill is a good fit for at-home use.

The multi-functional LCD helps track your progress – you can check the distance, speed, and time and monitor your heart rate and the number of calories you have burned. The anti-slip, anti-static lawn texture belt keeps you safe and comfortable even when running at high speeds.

Pros

Space-saving design

Supports maximum user weight up to 220 lbs

Multi-functional LCD

Low noise motor

Auto-stop safety function

Cons

The belt is too narrow.

Not suitable for serious running.

Not ideal for taller users.

Buy Now!

10. Gymax Folding Electric Portable Treadmill

Gymax Folding Electric Portable Treadmill has a silent yet powerful motor that can reach a running speed of up to 6.5 mph. The high-quality steel frame is durable enough to support your chosen running speed while being quiet not to disturb your family or neighbors. It folds up quickly and takes up little space, making it a stylish fit for small apartments.

The display screen is an elegant round shape and helps you keep track of time, running speed, distance, and calories burned. The non-slip shock-absorbing running belt, along with the security key, lets you run safely and protects your knees from injury. There are 12 built-in programs that you can choose from for a more varied workout.

Pros

12 preset programs

Quiet 1 HP treadmill motor

Adjustable running speed

Wheels for easy portability

Cons

Narrow running belt

Not suitable for tall users

Flimsy controls

Not ideal for vigorous workouts

Buy Now!

Let’s look at the benefits of a treadmill in the next section.

Benefits Of Using A Folding Treadmill

1. Storage

The most significant advantage of investing in a folding treadmill is the ability to store it away out of sight, when not using it. A treadmill is large equipment that admittedly takes up a lot of space. This can be particularly discouraging if your apartment is already low on space. The space-saving design of a folding treadmill also comes in handy if you are used to having people over, but don’t want your treadmill to be standing in one corner, looking like an eyesore.

2. Portability

Most folding treadmills also come with wheels attached at the base of the device. This makes it portable so that you can shift it to and from storage without any hassle. The size of a regular treadmill is intimidating enough that you would think twice before moving it around. But the wheels in a foldable treadmill make portability quite convenient.

3. Fitness

This is a no-brainer. With storage and portability taken care of, there’s no real deterrent to bringing a folding treadmill home. When regular exercise is more accessible, your health and fitness levels are sure to improve. Irrespective of your fitness goals – whether it is weight loss, muscle building, or improving your cardiovascular health – a treadmill is worth investing in for good health.

4. Ease Of Use

Treadmills are not very complicated. They are easy to use and help you keep track of your progress across time, distance, speed, your heart rate, and the calories you have burned. The flat and predictable surface of the running belt is safe to use, eliminating any fears about injuries from running on uneven terrain. Also, for busy people with no time for the gym, treadmills can be combined with leisure activities, such as watching a movie or listening to music, for a more fun workout.

5. Preset Workout Programs

Most treadmills these days come with a digital monitor and a menu of built-in workout programs that help add variety to your workouts and make them more interesting. These programs can change your running speed or make the incline more steep to prepare for a more challenging session. Some treadmills also have the option to allow you to program your routine for a more customized workout according to your requirements.

If you have decided that a folding treadmill is the right fitness investment for you, hold on. Before placing your order, take a quick look at some factors that can help you choose the best folding treadmill for your needs.

Things To Keep In Mind When Purchasing A Folding Treadmill

1. Purpose

The first question you need to ask yourself is why you want to purchase a treadmill. The answer could be walking, jogging, running, or just light activity to keep yourself mobile. Depending on your requirements, your preferred treadmill could be a primary budget device or something high-end with advanced features, meant for more intensive training.

2. Budget

Your budget needs to be a crucial consideration of every purchase, especially for equipment like treadmills that do not come cheap. Remember your needs and be practical about how much you are going to be using it before going all out and splurging on an overly complicated model.

3. Space

Another critical factor to consider is the space available in your home for a new treadmill. While a folding treadmill is inherently space-saving, you still need to decide where you are going to put it away when it is not in use. Before purchasing, make sure that the device folds properly and is appropriately sized for your home and storage space.

4. Running Surface Area

The running deck needs to be long and wide enough for you to gain the most out of your workout. This does mean that you may end up with a larger sized treadmill, but it will also be better suited, especially if you enjoy running or are tall.

5. Motor Size

A more powerful motor is responsible for a more durable treadmill. Better motor performance also makes the treadmill strong enough to handle high speeds. If running and sprinting is more your style than walking or slow jogging, make sure that the motor of your treadmill is up to the task.

6. Technology And Connectivity

The variety of treadmills available today have spoiled the consumer for choice. Take a look at all the surplus features your chosen model delivers before making a purchase. Some machines give you access to different training apps using Bluetooth, while others have larger display screens and more sophisticated controls. You can take your pick from several levels of technology based on your personal preference.

7. Construction Quality

For the amount of money you will be investing, your treadmill should be durable enough to stand the test of time. Check that all the parts and the device are high-quality, require minimum maintenance, and are covered under a manufacturer’s warranty.

That was our round-up of the best folding treadmills of 2019. We hope the buying guide helps you make an informed decision on the folding treadmill best suited to your requirements. Getting fit and in shape is just a few steps (or sprints on your new treadmill) away!

Expert’s Answers For Readers’ Questions

How much horsepower does a folding treadmill need to have?

It depends on the kind of workout you are looking to get out of your treadmill. 20 CHP (Continuous Horsepower) is enough for low-intensity activities like walking or slow jogging. Faster jogging requires 2.5 CHP, while serious runners should consider treadmills with a CHP of 3.0 or above.

What are the safety features built into folding treadmills?

Depending on the model, safety features vary across different devices. However, the two most common ones that are absolutely vital are (a) a lock to prevent the running deck from falling back once it is folded up, and (b) a safety key that needs to be inserted into the treadmill for the machine to power on. This prevents misuse and injury, especially if there are children in the house.

Is it easy to move a folding treadmill?

It is if the treadmill has wheels below the deck. If you are planning on storing the treadmill somewhere different when not using it, it is ideal to invest in a treadmill equipped with wheels for the job.

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