In this NordicTrack EXP 14i Folding Treadmill review, we will cover everything you should know before you decide to buy. NordicTrack’s new 2022 lineup of updated treadmills are among the best available. The EXP 14i is certainly among them. Read below to get the full scoop.
Table of contents
NordicTrack EXP 14i video review
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A quick overview of the NordicTrack EXP 14i
The NordicTrack EXP 14i is a foldable treadmill that connects to iFIT classes on the included 14″ HD touchscreen. With its ‘EasyLift Assist,’ the EXP 14i is easy to fold up and quickly save space.
With auto-adjusting incline and speed, a built-in fan, and an ultra-comfortable running suspension system, this is one of the best foldable treadmills available.
NordicTrack EXP 14i specs
| Weight | 229 lbs |
| Max User Weight | 300 lbs |
| Dimensions | 79.9” L x 35.08” W x 59.25” H |
| Running Surface | 20” W x 60” L |
| Incline | -3% Decline to 12% Incline |
| Max Speed | 12 mph |
| Motor | 3.5 CHP Plus Motor |
| Touchscreen | 14″ HD Touchscreen |
| Auto Adjust | Yes |
| Speakers | Two 2” Digitally Amplified Speakers |
| Warranty | 10-Year Frame Warranty 2-Year Parts Warranty 1-Year Labor Warranty |
Using the NordicTrack EXP 14i
Foldable design
One of the best features of the NordicTrack EXP 14i is how easy it is to move around and fold up. At 229lbs, this treadmill is very light and easy to move – especially when compared to the Nordictrack X22i which weighs over 500lbs!
A concern with lighter treadmills is always their stability. However, with the EXP 14i, surprisingly little stability is sacrificed compared to heavier and more expensive models.
The fact that it can easily fold up to save space makes this even more impressive. The ‘EasyLift’ design here is well appreciated so that even the smallest of owners should have no problem folding it up.
‘FlexSelect’ Suspension deck
One of my favorite parts of running on any current NordicTrack treadmill is using the ‘FlexSelect’ suspension system. Running on these treadmills feels better than any other belt treadmill I have used. Even with it’s lower price, the EXP 14i is no exception.
For me, the suspension deck on these treadmills gives enough cushion to help me run significantly longer than I could otherwise. After having spent a significant time testing out Peloton’s and Echelon’s treadmills recently, the difference has become even more noticeable.
Speed and incline
The NordicTrack EXP 14i has a max speed of 12 mph and a range of -3% decline to 12% incline. While the range here is more than adequate, the time it takes to make adjustments is where the lower price starts to make sense.
The time it takes to speed up and incline is around 50% slower than the Peloton Tread and twice as slow as the extremely snappy Nordictrack X22i. Additionally, the EXP 14i makes a lot of additional noise when adjusting the incline. Since the classes typically have inclines adjusting frequently, this noise can become pretty annoying unless you put on a pair of headphones.
Now one thing that I do really like about the speed and incline is how easy it is to make adjustments. The screen is surrounded by each speed and incline option, allowing most adjustments to be made with one simple button press. These buttons can even be used to get to an exact speed by pressing one after another (press 6 then 3 to change your speed to 6.3).
Additional fine-tuning of your speed and incline can also be made by pressing the large + and – buttons in front of the screen. However, I never found myself adjusting my speed or incline very often because of the auto-adjust features included.
‘Smart Adjust’ and ‘ActivePulse”
Whenever you take a class on the NordicTrack EXP 14i, your incline and decline will automatically adjust relative to the current terrain you are seeing. With ‘Smart Adjust’ enabled, your speed will also be automatically adjusted throughout the class for your current fitness level.
An alternative to Smart Adjust is a feature called ActivePulse. ActivePulse uses your heart rate data to determine when and how much to adjust your speed based on the goals of the class. For example, if a portion of a workout is designed for heart rate zone three, your speed is adjusted to get and keep you in zone three.
Both of the auto-adjust features work exceptionally well. Personally, I prefer Smart Adjust for more difficult sessions and interval workouts. I find the ActivePulse is best for longer endurance runs where there are less frequent speed changes.
Touchscreen and speakers
The NordicTrack EXP 14i comes with a 14″ HD touchscreen which while not great, is adequate. It cannot be adjusted, so depending on your height, you may have to look down to see it.
Unlike NordicTrack’s other 2022-updated treadmills, it cannot swivel side-to-side, which would allow it to be used for other types of classes.
The two 2” digitally amplified speakers are also pretty decent. With the ability to adjust the music and instructor volume separately, it helps you dial in the exact sound experience you prefer.
‘AutoBreeze’ fan
Additionally, the NordicTrack EXP 14i comes with their ‘AutoBreeze’ fan which is placed underneath the touch screen. The fan gives a decent amount of air, and although not perfectly placed, it feels pretty nice. The only issue is that up-close, it has a hard time reaching your face where I would like it most.
iFIT workouts
Like all connected fitness treadmills, the class options available can be just as important as the equipment itself. iFIT provides a large amount of high content with its membership, which costs $15/month for an individual plan and $39/month for a family-plan (u to 5 accounts)
While there are five to seven daily live studio workouts available, the best part of iFIT’s system is its instructor-led scenic content. The scenic runs are easily the best of any connected fitness platform and, alongside the auto-adjusting incline, are a lot of fun.
Another thing to note is iFIT’s focus on dedicated programs. Most connected fitness platforms, like Peloton and Echelon, focus providing on a ‘buffet-style of workouts with no overarching focus or progression.
iFIT does the exact opposite with almost all scenic rides being part of a larger program which have a specific goal they are trying to achieve. Some programs are built to improve your 5K, 10K, or even help you build up to a marathon. Others will have you walking through a series of progressively harder hikes, like the excellent 18-part series ‘Treking Through Everest Base Camp.’
There is a ton of variety here from runs, to walks, to hikes, and more than enough fresh content to ensure you always have something new to do.
NordicTrack EXP 14i vs 2450 vs X22i
While the EXP 14i is part of NordicTrack’s lower-priced series of treadmills, it holds up really well. Though if you want to spend a bit more, there are several other options to choose from.
The new NordicTrack 2450, which is also foldable, has a better-looking design, larger 22″ swivel screen, and increased 15% incline.
Past that, the new Nordictrack X22i provides the best iFIT experience, with an incline that can go from -5% all the way to 40% for those who really want a true hiking experience.
Final thoughts
The NordicTrack EXP 14i is one of the best-connected fitness treadmills for under $2,000, although not as nice as the NordicTrack 1750 (which for some reason is currently the same price). With the space-saving foldable design, excellent suspension deck, and auto-adjusting features, it is a pleasure to run on.
While it does have as great-looking of a design as some of NordicTracks more expensive treadmills, it still keeps most of what makes them great. Besides and slow adjustment system and annoyingly loud incline motor, it is hard to find much else wrong with this treadmill. I highly recommend it if you can find it for $1,600 or less.
Related articles:
- Review: NordicTrack S27i Studio Cycle
- iFIT vs Peloton: Which program is best for runners? [Video]
- Review: NordicTrack iSelect dumbbells
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