Key Takeaways
-
The F83 and F85 share a 3.5 HP motor, 22 x 60-inch deck, CushionFlex 3.0 cushioning, and 0–15 incline range, so core running performance is identical on both machines.
-
The F85 upgrades to a 15.6-inch HD touchscreen (vs. 10.1 inches on the F83) and uses a Z-frame build.
-
The F83 is priced at $1,699.99 and the F85 at $2,099.99 (regularly $1,799.99 and $2,199.99), with the $400 difference covering the larger screen and Z-frame construction.
-
F83 owners highlight quiet operation and easy folding for small spaces, while F85 owners praise deck stability and the 15.6-inch screen for streaming SOLE+ workouts.
-
SOLE backs both treadmills with a lifetime frame and motor warranty, free SOLE+ access to over 3,000 guided workouts, and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
SOLE F83 vs F85 Treadmill: Which One Suits You Best?
The SOLE F85 suits runners who want the largest console in SOLE's folding lineup and a Z-frame build, while the F83 suits buyers who want the same motor performance and cushioning at a lower price.
Both machines share the same 3.5 HP motor, the same 22 x 60 inch running surface, and the same incline range, so the real decision usually comes down to screen size, frame construction, and budget rather than raw performance.
Where this gets tricky is that shoppers often assume a bigger price tag always means a stronger motor or a more durable deck, but that is not the case here. The F83 and F85 share the same belt thickness, roller size, and CushionFlex 3.0 cushioning system, so paying more for the F85 buys you screen real estate and frame design, not extra shock absorption.
|
Award-Winning Commercial-Grade Treadmills for Your Home
Why Choose SOLE: ✓ Commercial-grade steel frames with up to 4.0 HP motors 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: Love it or return it, no questions asked. |
SOLE F83 vs F85: Spec Comparison
The SOLE F83 runs on the same CushionFlex 3.0 deck as the F85, giving both models identical cushioning underfoot.
Motor, Speed & Incline
Both the F83 and F85 use the same 3.5 HP motor, reach the same top speed of 12 mph, and offer the same 0–15 incline range. Both machines set quick-speed keys at 3, 6, 9, and 12 mph and quick-elevation keys at 0, 5, 10, and 15, so the button layout for fast adjustments is identical across both consoles.
Running Surface & Cushioning
The running deck is another area where things are consistent. Both treadmills use a 22 x 60 inch surface, an 18 mm deck, and a two-ply 1.6 mm belt over 2.36 inch front and rear rollers. CushionFlex 3.0 branding appears on both products, so the shock absorption under each footstrike feels the same whether you are walking, jogging, or doing sprint intervals.
Display, Console & Convenience Features
This is where the two models start to separate. The F83 ships with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, while the F85 steps up to a 15.6-inch HD touchscreen, which is 5.5 inches larger on the diagonal. Both screens swivel and tilt, both connect to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth speakers, and both pair with a secondary white-LED display that keeps key stats in view.
Beyond the display, several convenience features carry over between the two treadmills:
-
Built-in crossflow cooling fans and LED handlebar lighting
-
Compatibility with chest-strap or armband heart-rate monitors
-
USB-C charging at 5V/1.5A for phones and tablets
-
Console controls for fan speed, program selection, volume, and playback
Both models fold upright with a release lever, while the F85 adds a Z-frame build. Both models track heart rate through a compatible chest strap or armband, which typically gives steadier readings than handlebar grip sensors.
Workout Programs & SOLE+ App Access
The F83 and F85 both include SOLE+, SOLE's companion app, with no monthly subscription attached. SOLE+ offers more than 3,000 guided workouts led by qualified instructors across running, cycling, and rowing, and both treadmills stream them over Wi-Fi without tethering a phone to the console.
The F83 also includes more than twenty built-in programs, including 5K and 10K runs plus military fitness tests, so there's plenty of variety even before opening the app.
SOLE+ video classes load right on the touchscreen, giving runners a full library of guided workouts to choose from before each session.
Warranty & Durability
SOLE backs both treadmills with identical coverage: a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, 3 years on the deck, electronics, and wear parts, 1 year of labor, and 90 days on cosmetic items. Both frames support users up to 350 pounds, and each model comes with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, giving runners a month to test the fit and feel at home.
How Much Do the SOLE F83 & F85 Treadmills Cost?
At current pricing, the SOLE F83 runs $1,699.99, discounted from a reference price of $1,799.99, while the SOLE F85 is priced at $2,099.99, down from $2,199.99. That creates a $400 gap between the two models at their promotional prices, which roughly matches the upgrade to a larger touchscreen and the F85's Z-frame construction.
If your budget sits closer to $1,700, the F83 gets you the same motor, deck, and cushioning without the premium console. If a bigger display and sturdier frame matter more than saving $400, the F85 is the better fit.
What Users Say About Each Model
SOLE F83 Reviews
F83 owners describe the treadmill as solid and well-built, with straightforward assembly and simple controls. Reviewers also highlight its quiet operation and easy fold-away design for smaller homes, making it practical for regular at-home training. Owner reviews so far are consistently positive.
SOLE F85 Reviews
F85 owners point to the cushioned deck and sturdy frame, noting it stays steady even for heavier runners. Many also enjoy the 15.6-inch screen, using it to stream SOLE+ classes and mirror apps from their phones. When issues come up, owners report that SOLE's support team follows through with replacement parts until the treadmill runs properly.
The SOLE F85's heavy-duty Z-frame keeps the deck steady from walking pace to 12 mph sprints.
SOLE F83 vs F85 Treadmill Compared
|
Feature |
SOLE F83 |
SOLE F85 |
|
Motor |
3.5 HP |
3.5 HP |
|
Speed Range |
0.5–12 mph |
0.5–12 mph |
|
Incline |
0–15 levels |
0–15 levels |
|
Running Surface |
22 x 60 inches |
22 x 60 inches |
|
Deck Thickness |
18 mm |
18 mm |
|
Max User Weight |
350 lbs |
350 lbs |
|
Display |
10.1-inch touchscreen |
15.6-inch touchscreen |
|
Price |
$1,699.99 (regular $1,799.99) |
$2,099.99 (regular $2,199.99) |
SOLE Fitness Stands Behind Both the F83 & F85 Treadmills
Choosing between these two treadmills comes down to how much you value screen size and frame construction, since the motor, deck, and incline range are identical on both machines. The F83 keeps a 10.1-inch touchscreen at a lower price, while the F85 adds a 15.6-inch display and a Z-frame build.
We built the F83 and F85 on the same core engineering, so you don't sacrifice performance with whichever one fits your budget. Both come with free SOLE+ workouts and lifetime frame and motor coverage. Pick the model that matches your space and screen preference, and start training at home with our 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is better, the SOLE F80 or F85?
Neither is strictly better, since each suits a different runner. The F80 pairs a quiet 3.25 HP brushless motor with a 20 x 60-inch deck and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The F85 steps up to a 3.5 HP motor, a wider 22 x 60-inch deck, and a 15.6-inch screen, while both support 350 pounds and include free SOLE+ access.
Does the SOLE F85 have decline?
No. The SOLE F85 provides a powered incline range of 0 to 15 levels but no decline setting. That incline range still covers steep hill intervals and incline walking workouts.
Do I need extra space to store SOLE treadmills?
Both the F83 and F85 fold upright for storage using a release lever. Folded, the F85 measures 48 x 38 x 66 inches, so plan for enough floor space and ceiling clearance to roll it aside.
Which SOLE treadmill is considered the best?
It depends on your priorities. The F83 earns praise for quiet operation and easy folding, while the F85 adds a larger 15.6-inch touchscreen and a Z-frame build for $400 more.
How does SOLE Fitness compare to other treadmill brands?
SOLE Fitness brings more than 25 years of engineering experience, having originally built equipment for hotel use. Unlike competitors that charge monthly fees for workout subscriptions, SOLE includes thousands of workouts at no extra cost. Motorized treadmills also come with lifetime coverage on the frame and motor.
*Disclaimer: Products and prices mentioned in this article are accurate as of the date of publication and are subject to change. Please visit the official SOLE website for the most current information.
