Horizon T84 Treadmill Review

  Treadmill Articles

The Horizon T84 is the upgrade to the Horizon T83. Both are built on the same frame and use many of the same components. With the T84 you get a slightly larger motor, and wireless heart rate control with the chest strap. There are also several HRC programs included.

In addition, there are some cosmetic differences with the console and display. The T83 has a three window LCD display, in comparison to a larger one window LCD display on the T84. I personally prefer the three windows. I like the separation of feedback into different windows.

The T84 comes with a moderate sized 2.75 continuous duty HP motor. That is in contrast to a 2.5 HP motor on the T83. The .25 HP is not going to make a lot of difference.

Regarding the wireless heart rate control, that only has value to those that will use it. I personally prefer to control my own level of exertion. However, using your heart rate to determine your level of exercise can be an excellent way to optimize your workout. Many professional athletes train using HRC control. Click here to learn more about the benefits of Heart Rate Control.

Additional Features on Both the Horizon T84 & T83.

Orthopedic Belt - Orthopedic belts on a treadmill are more hype than actual benefit. Yes, the belt is thicker, but you are really not going to notice that much of a difference in the impact.

20" x 55" Treadbelt - The length of the belt on the Horizon T84 is sufficient for users of average height. If you are over 6'2" you should consider a treadmill with a longer tread, particularly if you plan to jog or run.

Variable Cushioning - The design of the deck gives you more cushioning towards the front where you impact the belt, and less cushioning towards the back where you want a solid push-off. A smart design.

Warranty - For the price I feel the warranty is substandard. You get a lifetime motor and 1-year labor warranty, which is typical. What is below average is the 1-year parts coverage. For example, the Smooth 5.25 comes with 3-year parts ($999). The Sole F80 has 5-year parts and 2-year labor warranty ($1,499).

The Deck - The Horizon T83 treadmill has what is called ComfortZone plus Air Cell. I didn't find that the deck offered any more shock absorption than other comparable models. Still it does a decent job of absorbing impact, particularly when you are jogging.

Console Speakers with MP3 console input - Speakers are getting to be a popular feature. The Horizon T84 also has an input for your MP3 player. I'm not sure if you have to purchase a special cable, with some models you do. The speakers are adequate, and for me are preferable to having headphones on while I exercise.

Our Review - Horizon T84

As with most of my reviews of Horizon treadmills, the T84 is not a bad treadmill. It has many decent features and you will probably be very satisfied with it. Being a mid-range treadmill, I would consider this machine adequate for walking and jogging. If you plan to have multiple users or run - I suggest you upgrade.

If you are not into using heart rate control, I would stick with the T83. You'll save at least $300.

Note: The suggested user weight of 350 lbs. on the T84 is absurd. I would max out at around 240 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Being a relatively new treadmill, I could not find any customer reviews. However, I found a couple of positive reviews for the Horizon T83 on Amazon.com.

A comparable treadmill to consider is the BowFlex Series 7. It has received numerous positive customer reviews on Amazon.com. It comes with a bigger motor and a longer treadbelt.