ProForm SMART Performance 400i Review

One of the highlights of this revamped Performance 400i is the new 7″ Smart HD touch screen display, which is actually more advanced than the basic one found on the up-level up-level Performance 600i.

You will be hard pressed to find a touch screen on any other treadmill at this price level, and we’re actually shocked that they are able to include it without raising the cost.

You can see all of your workout stats clearly laid out, or tap into all of the great features of iFit Coach, including choosing exotic locations via Google maps and watching it all unfold on the screen while you run.

It’s quite an experience.

The new ProForm Performance 400i comes with 50 built in workout programs, more than on any other treadmills we have reviewed here at Run Reviews.

This includes a wide selection of high intensity training, speed, calorie burn, incline and mixed goal workouts…plenty to keep you motivated to reach your fitness goals.

At only 66″ long and 32.75″ wide, it’s one of the most compact treadmills on the market today, making it very appealing, especially for those that have limited space in their workout areas.

The good thing is they still pack in all of the important features in spite of its space-friendly design.

Additionally, you can fold it up with ProForm’s EZ fold capability…fold it up or unfold it within seconds with its unique hydraulic system.

At any time during your workout you can use the included grips to measure your heart rate.

This way you can be sure you are in the ideal zone, and you can ramp up or lower the intensity of your workout accordingly.

As we mentioned above, the ProForm Performance 400i treadmill gives you iFit technology.

(Note that if you see a “SMART” designation in front of the product name, that means you get iFit free for one year.)

You can learn more about iFit here.

In a nutshell, it gives you access to unlimited workouts, one on one coaching with personal trainers across the world, Google maps of any destination, workout tracking/sharing and so much more.

It does require a yearly fee, but most users say it’s worth it for all of the fitness tools you are getting.

The 400i comes with an integrated tablet holder, up to 10 degrees of incline, an 18″ x 50″ tread belt and ProShox cushioning to minimize impact on your joints.

The Performance 400i is a very good treadmill, especially given the $600 price when it’s on sale.

We recommend this machine to walkers and light joggers, since this machine was built for low impact.

Taller users may have issues with the 18″ x 50″ belt.

Note that the up-level Performance 600i has a 20″ x 60″ belt.

Pros

The motor is not the most powerful there is, but it is more than enough for walking and light jogging. For this level of usage, we’ve encountered no issues whatsoever.

The cushioning system offers more comfort and security than concrete, but it isn’t quite at the level of the more expensive models. And it can’t be, not for this price. Still, it does reduce impact on the knees and joints and we felt great even after longer workouts.

The new touch screen display is awesome, and is a really great upgrade over the basic LCD on the previous ProForm Performance 400i.

There’s a quality sound system for users who need a plus of motivation. It works well and provides a clear sound. And the warranty is satisfactory, given the price.

Drawbacks

But then again, not all treadmills have everything, especially for $600.

First off, the belt won’t be ideal for taller users, as we mentioned. So you might want to look at the 600i or new 800i, both of which have larger running decks.

There’s no cooling fan, which isn’t the biggest deal, but would be nice if one was included. Note that both the 600i and 800i have cooling fans.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a solid treadmill under $600, the ProForm Performance 400i has more features and capabilities than you’ll find anywhere else for the price.

You have incline capability, good cushioning, a touch screen display, iFit Coach, plenty of workouts and space saver design.

If you need something a little more powerful, consider one of the Power Series models, or one of the top of the line Pro models.