We’ve had a number of people ask us lately: “Should I buy a Costco treadmill?” And our answer in every case has been “It depends.”
Now I am a longtime Costco member, and I get pretty much everything there. Along with the huge quantities of paper towels and toilet paper, I get prepared food, fruits, meats, coffee pods, light bulbs, batteries, pajamas…you name it. I’ve even bought televisions from Costco and my wife gets her contact lenses there.
But a Costco treadmill? It really depends on what you are looking for.
Costco typically has a relatively small selection of treadmills compared to what you’ll find when shopping directly from treadmill manufacturers or larger fitness equipment retailers. The exact brands and models also change over time, so what you see available today may be very different from what’s there a few months from now.
That’s not necessarily a bad thing. Costco can have some very good treadmills at competitive prices, and its return policy is obviously a big reason people feel comfortable making a large purchase there. The bigger question is whether the treadmill Costco happens to be offering is the best machine for you at that price.
That’s why we wouldn’t recommend buying a treadmill simply because Costco has it. Compare the model, features, warranty and price with the current alternatives before deciding.
What Are the Drawbacks of Buying a Treadmill at Costco?
The biggest drawback is simply the limited selection. Costco may have some very good treadmills available, but you’re choosing from the models they happen to carry rather than comparing the full lineups from the major treadmill brands.
That matters because treadmills at similar prices can be very different. One might give you a larger running deck or more powerful motor, while another might have better cushioning, a more advanced console or a higher incline range. If you’re spending $1,000, $1,500 or more, it’s worth seeing what else is available before making your decision.
You may also find better pricing or promotions when buying directly from a manufacturer. Treadmill companies run special discounts periodically, so it’s always worth comparing the Costco price with the price available elsewhere.
The other thing to consider is that Costco’s treadmill selection changes. A machine that’s available today may disappear from the site, and another model or brand may take its place. That makes it especially important to evaluate the specific treadmill you’re considering rather than assuming that buying it from Costco automatically makes it a good deal.
When does it make sense to buy a treadmill from Costco?
Buying a treadmill from Costco can make a lot of sense if they happen to carry a model that fits your needs and the price is competitive. You’re also buying from a retailer you may already know and trust, and Costco’s return policy is obviously a big part of the appeal when you’re spending this much money.
The key is to evaluate the treadmill itself rather than buying it simply because it’s available at Costco. Before you pull the trigger, compare the price and features with similar machines from brands like ProForm, NordicTrack, Sole and Horizon.
If the Costco treadmill stacks up well and you’re getting a good price, there’s no reason not to buy it there. In fact, the convenience and Costco’s customer-friendly policies could make it the better choice.
But if you’re compromising on the treadmill just because you like shopping at Costco, we’d keep looking. Selection is limited, and with something you’ll hopefully be using for years, getting the right treadmill is more important than where you buy it.
