Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 vs. TC10 vs. TC20 Comparison

November 20, 2020

Bowflex TreadClimbers combine the best features of ellipticals, stair climbers, and treadmills to offer low impact cardio workouts that are not only great for losing fats, burning calories, and increasing stamina, but are also very easy on the joints. This article compares three popular TreadClimbers i.e. TC5, TC10, and TC20.

Following are some important aspects compared for these TreadClimbers:

Contents

1 Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 vs. TC10 vs. TC20 (Detailed comparison)
2 Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 vs. TC10 vs. TC20 (Pros and Cons)
3 How do you choose between the TC5, TC10 and TC20?

Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 vs. TC10 vs. TC20 (Detailed comparison)

Resistance levels

The Bowflex TC5 offers one level of resistance. The TC10 and TC20 models both offer 12 levels of resistance, an incredible step up from the entry-level TC5.

The increased levels of resistance allow you to set your workout program to match your comfort level and fitness, from the easiest level gradually up to the expert level.

The Bowflex TC10 and TC20 tie this round.

Workout Programs

The Bowflex Treadclimber TC5 offers up to 4 workout functions, as does the TC10 model. The TC20 takes it a slight notch higher with 5 workout functions which are just enough to give it a win in this category.

Maximum Weight

There is no winner here, as all three models have the same weight limit of 300 pounds. This may just be the only feature where all three models perform at the same level.

Speed

When it comes to belt speed, TC5 can max out at 4.5 mph. TC10 has relatively reduced speed as it can reach 4 mph. TC20 can also reach the belt speed of 4.5 mph.

Size

The size of the model that you decide to purchase would obviously determine how easy storage would be and it also has an effect on how portable the product will be.

So it is important to take a look at the dimensions of each one to get an idea of its physical size before you get an actual look at the product.

The Bowflex TC5 has dimensions of 43.1” Length, 27” Width and 52.8” Height. The TC10’s dimensions are 57” Length, 31.5” Width and 59” Height.

Finally, the TC20 has dimensions of 55” Length, 31.5” Width and 62.5” Height.

From these dimensions, we can surmise that the TC20 is the largest of the three. The TC10 is not so far off though, and the TC5 is the most portable of the three.

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Warranty

TC5	a one year warranty
TC10	a full-coverage of two years
TC20	a full-coverage of three years

These aren’t exactly the best offerings on the fitness equipment market, but if these three are your options, then the Bowflex TC20 offers the best in this regard.

User Profiles

Custom user profiles are unavailable in the Bowflex TC5, which may be a little limiting since you cannot set and save the terms of your own workout easily. The TC10 and TC20 address this issue, with the TC10 and TC20 offering 2 custom user profiles.

Having two user profiles means that two individuals can store and track their weekly workout programs via the G.O. Coach program.

The Bowflex TC10 and TC20 win this round.

Console

All three TreadClimbers are equipped with LCD display that includes readouts of distance, time, speed, etc. The main difference is that TC5 and TC10 both don’t have backlit consoles.

TC20, on the other hand, has a backlit console that will allow you to read your workout stats easily even in low light situations.

Price

Budget is usually a key determinant when trying to purchase exercise equipment. Sometimes, it is even the most important factor especially with people that have very limited budgets. If the same applies to you, here is how the three TreadClimbers compare to each other regarding pricing.

As of the time of writing, the Bowflex TC5 can be purchased for about $999.99. The Bowflex TC10 for $1499.99 and the Bowflex TC20 will set you back $2199.99. Obviously, the TC5 is the cheapest of the lot, and this is understandable considering the fact that it is the oldest model of the three.

The TC5 wins this round.

Additional Features

All three models have a climb indicator and an accessory tray. The TC10 and TC20 also added the beneficial Goal Coach and Quick Controls, while the TC20 went one step ahead of the rest of the bunch with the inclusion of a heart rate monitor.

The Bowflex TC20 wins this round.

You may also like: Bowflex TC100 vs. TC200 Comparison

Bowflex TreadClimber TC5 vs. TC10 vs. TC20 (Pros and Cons)

	PROS	CONS
TC5	No need for a power cord. Your workout power fuels the machine You can set the speed up to 4.5mph which is the highest speed that the TC20 can reach too More efficient workouts with a guaranteed higher calorie burn rate when compared to traditional treadmills The product is portable, allowing for efficient management of space. The ergonomic console is equipped with all the basic things you need including a reading rack and a bottle holder at arm’s length. The product is low-impact, meaning it will have a minimal strain on sensitive joints The weight limit is relatively high at 300 pounds	There are no pre-set workout programs to guide your workouts. You have to lubricate the track occasionally to keep it functional There is no option to store your workout data The warranty is very short
TC10	The introduction of the Goal Coach that allows one user to set weekly goals and track your progress. The ergonomic console Efficient space management with the relatively portable size High weight limit of 300 pounds, especially considering the fact that the machine itself only weighs 185 pounds Sturdy, steel frame build	Requires lubrication too Warranty could be better Low top speed means that it is not for running
TC20	The incline training used when walking on the machine basically burns calories at a similar rate to runners, but puts a lot less stress on the joints. The Goal Coach on this one allows information for up to two users The inclusion of the heart rate monitor Ergonomic console Efficient space management Relatively high weight limit Strong steel-frame build, adding up to the 215-pound weight of the machine You get three landmark workouts. This allows you to have virtual workouts in three famous structures including the Statue of Liberty.	It is expensive Assembly and Maintenance The available workout programs could be improved upon. They may feel a bit redundant to some users.

How do you choose between the TC5, TC10 and TC20?

In conclusion, all these TreadClimbers have many similarities but there are some differences as well.

If your budget is around $1000 and you want to enjoy the benefits of 3-in-1 motion of a TreadClimber than TC5 would be a good choice for you.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a reasonably priced TreadClimber with a beefy motor, user profiles, and variety of resistance levels, then TC10 would be a better choice for you.
Finally, TC20 is a great choice for those who are looking for a high-end TreadClimber with a backlit console, great performance, and heart rate monitoring.

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Chris Jordan

Hey there, I'm Chris Jordan! I'm a certified personal trainer and dietician with over 11 years of experience in the fitness industry. I've helped thousands of people achieve better physical and mental health. When I'm not working, I love spending time with my dog.