Key Takeaways
- The SOLE F85 and Spirit XT685 share the same motor, running surface, and speed range, but differ in screen quality, decline capability, noise level, and weight capacity, making them suitable for different buyers.
- On specs, the F85 leads with a 15.6-inch touchscreen, 6 decline levels, and wireless charging; the XT685 counters with a higher 425-pound weight capacity, 3-inch rollers, and a lifetime deck warranty.
- On reviews, F85 owners consistently praise quiet operation and stability under load; XT685 owners flag vacuum-cleaner-level motor noise and a tablet holder that vibrates during use.
- On price, the F85 at $2,299.99 costs $900 less than the XT685 at $3,199.99, with no subscription required on either machine.
- The SOLE F85 is the stronger pick for most buyers: more features, lower price, and quieter operation than the Spirit XT685.
*Note: SOLE does not manufacture or sell the Spirit XT685. This is an independent review of a product for comparison purposes.
What is the Difference Between SOLE F85 and Spirit XT685?
The SOLE F85 is the better buy for most home gym users. At $2,299.99, it costs $900 less than the Spirit XT685 and includes a 15.6-inch touchscreen with built-in streaming apps, 6 levels of decline, and whisper-quiet operation that XT685 owners say they wish they had.
The Spirit XT685 at $3,199.99 makes sense in one specific scenario: you need a 425-pound weight capacity or want a 10-year parts warranty. Outside of those two factors, the F85 matches or beats it on every practical measure.
Both treadmills run on identical 4.0 HP motors with 22" x 60" running surfaces and 15 incline levels. The differences that matter to daily use are price, screen, noise, and decline capability. This comparison breaks down each one.
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SOLE F85 Overview
The F85 combines a 15.6-inch touchscreen, decline capability, and quiet operation at $900 less than the Spirit XT685.
SOLE F85 Specs
The SOLE F85 delivers premium features at mid-range pricing. The 15.6-inch touchscreen comes preloaded with Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, Disney+, Amazon Prime, Spotify, and more. Screen mirroring adds Peloton, Zwift, and Apple Fitness+ compatibility. No subscription unlocks these features because they work from day one.
The 4.0 HP motor powers smooth speed transitions through the full 0.5 to 12 mph range. The 15 incline levels and 6 decline levels create a complete terrain simulation for hill training and downhill running that strengthens quads and prepares runners for real courses. The Spirit XT685 offers no decline at all.
The Cushion Flex Whisper Deck reduces joint impact by 40% compared to outdoor running while keeping noise low. The Z-shaped steel frame folds for storage despite commercial-grade construction. At 294 pounds, the F85 is substantial but includes transport wheels for repositioning.
SOLE F85 Pricing & Warranty
The SOLE F85 is priced at $2,299.99, available with financing from $207.59 per month. The subscription-free model means no ongoing fees to access the touchscreen apps, streaming, or SOLE+ content. Over three years, this saves up to $1,800 compared to Peloton's membership.
The warranty is one of the F85's strongest arguments. The frame and motor are covered for life, the deck, parts, and wear items for three years, labor for one year, and cosmetic items for 90 days.
SOLE F85 User Review
The review below captures what multiple F85 owners report: stability under load without wobble or shake. "I'm a 6' tall 305 lb guy who walks at 3–3.5 mph, and this thing doesn't flinch. Both the width of the tread belt and the width of the handles accommodate my gait and arm swing comfortably."
User reviews consistently describe the F85 as quiet enough that family members cannot hear it from adjacent rooms.
Noise levels receive consistent praise. Owners describe the F85 as super quiet when running and note that the motor produces less sound than their footsteps. The combination of the heavy Z-frame, 2.75-inch rollers, and CushionFlex deck dampens vibration effectively.
The subscription-free model resonates with buyers. One owner specifically chose the F85 because "unlike with NordicTrack or Peloton, they don't push a subscription on you, and you don't need one to get good running programs on the machine."
Spirit XT685 Overview
Spirit XT685 Specs
The Spirit XT685 targets serious home gym users who prioritize durability over entertainment technology. The 425-pound weight capacity exceeds most residential treadmills and matches light commercial standards. The 10-year parts warranty and lifetime deck coverage provide long-term protection that surpasses many competitors.
The 4.0 HP PowerMax motor delivers the same power as the F85, and both treadmills share identical 22" x 60" running surfaces with 15 incline levels and 0.5 to 12 mph speed ranges. The XT685 uses larger 3-inch front and rear rollers.
The 9-inch multi-color LCD display shows workout metrics clearly but offers no streaming apps or touchscreen functionality. Spirit includes a swivel-tilt tablet holder above the console for users who want entertainment from their own devices. Bluetooth FTMS connects to Zwift, Kinomap, and other third-party apps.
The XT685 does not fold, which suits dedicated gym spaces but limits flexibility in multipurpose rooms. It weighs 277.8 pounds.
Spirit XT685 Pricing & Warranty
The Spirit XT685 is priced at $3,199.99 with no financing details listed in the available product information. The residential warranty is notably strong on parts: lifetime frame, lifetime motor, lifetime deck, 10 years on parts, and one year of labor.
A light commercial warranty is also available, covering lifetime frame, five-year motor, three-year deck and parts, and one year labor, making the XT685 viable for non-dues-paying facilities.
Spirit XT685 User Review
XT685 owners report vacuum-cleaner-level motor noise and audible footfall clapping.
Owner feedback on the XT685 splits between praise for build quality and criticism of noise and controls. One reviewer describes the operation as "smooth and sturdy" and states it "feels as good as or better than any commercial unit I have used." The lower 6.9-inch step-up height works well in basements with low ceilings.
Noise complaints appear consistently. The same reviewer notes the XT685 is "noisy as a vacuum cleaner" with audible motor sound during operation. Footfall noise also stands out: "Noisy steps since the belt rides above the board and feet falls make a clapping sound."
The display and controls receive mixed reviews. Users describe functions as "basic" and "not intuitive," with slow speed changes in 0.1 mph increments. The tablet holder vibrates during use, causing devices to migrate and potentially fall onto the belt.
SOLE F85 vs Spirit XT685: Comparison Table
|
Feature |
SOLE F85 |
Spirit XT685 |
|
Price |
$2,299.99 |
$3,199.99 |
|
Price Difference |
$900 less |
— |
|
Motor |
4.0 HP |
4.0 HP |
|
Running Surface |
22" x 60" |
22" x 60" |
|
Speed Range |
0.5-12 mph |
0.5-12 mph |
|
Incline |
15 levels |
15 levels |
|
Decline |
6 levels |
None |
|
Display |
15.6" touchscreen |
9" LCD |
|
Built-in Streaming |
Yes |
No |
|
Screen Mirroring |
Yes |
No |
|
Bluetooth FTMS |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Wireless Charging |
Yes |
No (USB only) |
|
Cooling Fan |
No |
Yes |
|
Roller Size |
2.75" |
3" |
|
Weight Capacity |
375 lbs |
425 lbs |
|
Folding |
Yes |
No |
|
Step-Up Height |
8" |
6.9" |
|
Machine Weight |
294 lbs |
277.8 lbs |
|
Frame Warranty |
Lifetime |
Lifetime |
|
Motor Warranty |
Lifetime |
Lifetime |
|
Deck Warranty |
3 years |
Lifetime |
|
Parts Warranty |
3 years |
10 years |
|
Noise Level (per reviews) |
Quiet |
Noisy |
|
Subscription |
None |
None |
Why the SOLE F85 Offers Better Overall Value
For most buyers, the choice between the SOLE F85 and Spirit XT685 comes down to what you actually use a treadmill for. The F85 wins on price, screen, decline training, and quiet operation. The XT685 earns its place only if the 425-pound weight capacity or 10-year parts warranty is a hard requirement.
At SOLE, we built the F85 to outperform machines at higher price points without locking you into subscriptions. Our lifetime frame and motor warranty back that up. If you want to see how the F85 fits your home gym, shop the SOLE F85 today.
Shop the SOLE F85 treadmill today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Between SOLE F85 and Spirit XT685, which treadmill is better for running versus walking?
Both handle running and walking effectively with identical speed ranges and running surfaces. The F85's decline capability benefits runners training for hilly courses, while its quieter operation suits any workout intensity.
Can I use Zwift or Peloton on either treadmill?
Yes. Both include Bluetooth FTMS for connecting to Zwift, Peloton, and other apps. The F85 adds screen mirroring to display these apps on its touchscreen, while the XT685 requires a separate tablet.
Which treadmill is quieter, SOLE F85 or Spirit XT685?
The F85. User reviews consistently praise its quiet operation, while XT685 owners report noticeable motor noise and audible footfall sound during workouts.
Is the Spirit XT685 worth $900 more?
Only if you need the higher 425-pound weight capacity or prioritize the 10-year parts warranty over entertainment features, decline capability, and folding design that the F85 provides.
What warranty does SOLE offer on the F85?
The SOLE F85 comes with a lifetime frame and motor coverage with 3 years on deck, parts, and wear items, plus 1 year of labor. The FREE SOLE+ App provides guided workouts at no additional cost.
*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.
