The belt size is great for taller users, but if you’re under 6′, you’ll be standing all over it. The speed and incline are better suited to walking or jogging—a light or moderate cardio session—but much like we mentioned, $599 makes this a good choice for beginners who just need something simple to get back into their workouts after an extended period off. There’s nothing wrong with that! 20 workout programs is nice because it adds some variety and re-playability into your routine and can keep things interesting until you find the program(s) that work best for you.
But if your workouts are serious, you’ll probably outgrow this treadmill quickly and it won’t be able to keep up with you long term. Knowing that iFit is not yet available on this model (though we expect that to change at some point) and the fact that there’s no max incline is a bummer for those who like to take their workout up a notch / get more bang for their buck. If these features aren’t run-deal breakers for you though, then go ahead and give this treadmill a good look! No wonder why it’s such a popular choice on Amazon…
Pros vs. Cons
- 20 workout programs to keep things fresh and switch up your routine
- Includes heart rate monitor strap to keep you in the fat-burning zone more efficiently, though these are usually an option on most other models. If not included, it typically costs about $50 more to purchase one separately. Heartrate information is captured through handgrips for this model as well
- 2 user profiles allow people of varying fitness levels to store their progress independently or work together towards a common goal if they’re on the same page with regards to workouts. This feature used to be standard, but now it’s not always included in this price range
- 1% incline is disappointing if you’re looking to get an intense workout, but the price reflects the features available
- Small foot print allows it to fit in tight spaces, but if your goal is running rather than walking or general cardio, look elsewhere
- Perfect for beginners getting back into shape after a few months off, but this T6.5Si will definitely be limiting if you use this for extended periods of time and are serious about reaching your fitness goals. Those in pursuit of weight loss or higher intensity training should invest in something with more horsepower
To compare NordicTrack T 6.5 S vs NordicTrack T 6.5 Si, I’ve broken down the key differences between the two models below.
- The T 6.5 S is built with a 3 CHP motor whereas the T 6.5 Si has 4 CHP motor
- The T 6.5 Si comes with Bluetooth connectivity to use your smartphone as a monitor to track workouts and connect with friends
- The T 6.5 S comes with 10% incline while the T 6.5 Si has 12% incline
- Both offer easy touch buttons that allow you increase speed by 0.2 MPH, but only the T6S model offers an EKG grip pulse
- The T 6.5 Si has a 7″ backlit LCD w/ Touchscreen
- The T 6.5 S comes with a 2 year warranty on parts and labor whereas the T6Si has a lifetime frame warranty
- Both comes with 5 preset speed workouts, but only the T6S model offers 16 workout programs
- Only the T6 Si gives you 20 fitness levels of resistance control through InTouch track technology & InTone Plus Audio speakers w/ MP3 player input
- Only the T6 Si offers 3 pre-set incline choices to simulate hills via Incline Track Technology x) The treadmill deck is only 1% larger on the T6 Si; 20 x 55″ versus 19.5 x 54″
NordicTrack T 6.5 S vs NordicTrack T 6.5 Si Final Verdict
The T 6.5 Si is the better treadmill between the two, no doubt about it. It’s also priced $400 more; depending on what you are looking for, that may or may not be a good thing. If you have the extra money to spend and want Bluetooth connectivity then go with the T 6.5 Si but if you just want an affordable treadmill for walking/light cardio then go with the T 6.5 S . In hindsight, I wish I read this article before buying my treadmill.
