The Schwinn 830 - Decent Treadmill But Not Great

Schwinn treadmills have never really measured up well against the competition, and the entry-level 830 is no exception.  It is a popular model and it does have some features, but compared apples to apples with other brands it just doesn't hold up.

The Machine

The Schwinn 830 has blue backlit LCD display showing your distance, time and calories burned.  It offers decent cushioning as well as a nice array of workout programs.

Let's take a closer look at the specs...

• 2.75 CHP Motor
• 0-12 mph Speed
• 0 – 12% Incline
• 20" x 55" Walking Area
• 22 Workout Programs
• Grip/wireless heart rate sensor
• Softrak™ suspension deck
• Folding SoftDrop™ System
• Transport Wheels
• Schwinn Connect syncing
• Speaker system/Fan
• 300-lb. User Capacity
• Warranty: 10 yrs frame/motor, 2 yrs mech/elec, 90 days labor

Compare Popular Schwinn Treadmills at Amazon

The Buzz

The Schwinn 830 is definitely an improvement on previous models, with more workout programs, a stronger motor and the ability to track and share your workouts via the SchwinnConnect app.

Reviews from critics reflect these upgrades, but when compared to its competitors, Schwinn falls a bit short.  For example, the new Sport 7.5 from Proform is priced the same at $799 on sale, and it gives you iFit technology, ProShox Cushioning, a large runner's deck, additional workouts and a much better warranty.

So although the 830 is decent, it just doesn't give you what some of the other companies do, plus Schwinn doesn't really focus on their treadmill line as the others do.

Still, it does have some appealing features. Power incline to 12% is nice, as is a 12 mph speed max, 22 workout programs and tracking capability. You can measure your heart rate wirelessly, although the chest strap is not included.

The 830 treadmill is foldable and transportable with the wheels, and customer reviews point to the fact that the treadmill is relatively easy to put together, which is always a plus.

The main negative, which is the case with all of the Schwinn and sister company Nautilus' treadmills, is that the warranties are terrible.  You'll find a lifetime frame warranty literally across the board on treadmills over $500, but the Schwinn 830 treadmill only has a 10 year frame and motor warranty, and only 2 years on the parts.

That alone shows that these are not the most well made machines on the market, so if you are looking for something that's going to hold up over time, this is probably not the model for you.

You are best off looking at ProForm, NordicTrack and Horizon that give you a lot more for your money in the $500-$1000 category.

What We Say About the 830

It's hard to recommend the 830 when there are so many better choices out there from brands that are continually updating and improving their treadmills to give you more for your money.

Although you do get tracking capability which is a nice touch, that's about as far as the technology goes.  And with a subpar warranty, just like on the up-level 870 model,  it is hard to have confidence in the brand as coverage is so far superior elsewhere.

Get more info and special sale pricing on this treadmill here