12 Best Incline Treadmills of 2026

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Incline treadmills promise hill-like intensity at home, but many under $600 deliver unreliable incline mechanisms or noisy operation within weeks. The divide is clear: manual incline walking pads offer budget entry but lack mid-workout adjustment, while auto incline models above $400 bring convenience and steeper grades.

The real trade-off isn’t brand—it’s between a spacious deck for comfortable running and a motor strong enough to handle repeated incline changes without strain. This guide cuts through the spec sheets to highlight which models actually hold up over months of daily use, focusing on auto incline reliability, deck length for stride freedom, and overall build quality.

Whether you’re a walker simulating mountain grades or a runner chasing 12–15% slopes, the right choice depends on matching incline type and deck size to your height and fitness goals, not marketing claims.

Our Top Picks
Sunny SF-T723030
Best OverallSunny SF-T723030

Full-size auto incline with 20-inch wide deck and one-click fold.

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NordicTrack T Series
Best for Ifit Coaching & Long DeckNordicTrack T Series

Long 55-inch deck with iFIT coaching for dedicated runners.

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THERUN TR04
Best Mid-Range RunnerTHERUN TR04

Strong motor and 15% auto incline for serious home runners.

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Acezoe P11-S
Best Budget Walking Pad with InclineAcezoe P11-S

Budget walking pad with 10% incline, ready out of box.

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WELLFIT T24-1
Best for Heavy UsersWELLFIT T24-1

Heavy-duty build with 450 lb capacity and 20-inch belt.

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CIIHI AM729
Best for Families & Adjustable HandrailsCIIHI AM729

Adjustable handrails and voice control for family use.

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Best for Home Walk/jog

Sunny SF-T723030

Sunny SF-T723030

Key Features

  • Incline: 15% auto
  • Motor: 2.5 HP
  • Deck: 20×53 in
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Price: $$

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The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-T723030 pairs a 20-inch wide running deck with 15 levels of auto incline and a one-click fold — no subscription required for incline control. This combination gives walkers and joggers a stable, roomy surface that matches the incline range of pricier models, while the fold saves floor space when not in use.

Incline adjustments respond smoothly during a workout, and the 2.5 HP brushless motor handles steady jogging up to 10 MPH without hesitation. Assembly arrives mostly completed — attaching the uprights and console takes about 20 minutes with the included tools and clear diagrams.

This is a good fit for home users who want a full-size deck and auto incline without monthly fees. The 20-inch width suits walkers and joggers who find narrower belts constricting, and the 300-pound capacity covers most household needs. Because reliability can vary between units — some owners encounter motor or noise issues after several months — pairing it with an extended warranty is a sensible precaution for long-term ownership.

Pros

  • Generous 20-inch deck and auto incline at a mid-range price
  • Incline transitions are smooth and responsive during use
  • Wide belt provides stable footing for walking and light jogging
  • Setup is quick with clear instructions and pre-assembled frame

Cons

  • Some units arrive with cosmetic blemishes or cracked plastic covers — not a functional issue, but worth inspecting on arrival
  • In quiet apartments, motor and belt noise may be noticeable during use — less of a concern in homes with ambient sound or dedicated gym spaces

For home users who want a full-size auto incline treadmill without a subscription, the Sunny SF-T723030 delivers the most practical combination of width, incline range, and foldability at a fair price — just keep an extended warranty in mind for long-term peace of mind.

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Best for Desk Walkers

Acezoe P11-S

Acezoe P11-S

Key Features

  • Incline: Manual 10%
  • Motor: 2.5 HP
  • Deck: 40×16 in
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Price: $

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The Acezoe P11-S lands as the easiest way to add incline walking to a workday: no assembly required, folds compactly, and runs quietly enough for an open office or apartment. Compared to the top pick’s auto incline and full-size deck, this model uses a manual 10% incline and a 40-inch belt. That means it’s strictly for walking — taller users or anyone wanting to jog will find the stride too short and the top speed of 6.2 mph insufficient.

This is the right fit for desk workers and apartment dwellers who want a stable, low-noise walking surface with a slight hill option. The manual incline is best set before starting a session; the compact footprint slides under a standing desk or couch. Buyers who need auto incline, a longer deck, or the ability to run should choose the top pick instead.

The build quality holds up well for daily walking — the frame feels solid, the belt runs smoothly, and the motor stays quiet even at higher walking speeds. For the price, it’s a straightforward solution for adding movement to a sedentary routine without disturbing others.

💡 Tip: Set the incline before starting your walk — adjusting mid-session requires stepping off the deck.

Pros

  • Compact, sturdy frame holds up to daily walking without shaking
  • No assembly needed — unfold, plug in, and start walking
  • Quiet motor allows use during calls or in shared spaces

Cons

  • Manual incline requires stopping to adjust — fine if you set it before your walk
  • 40-inch belt limits natural stride for taller users
  • 6.2 mph top speed prevents jogging or running of any kind

The most convenient walking pad with incline for daily desk use — just don’t expect to break into a jog.

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Best for Heavy Users

WELLFIT T24-1

WELLFIT T24-1

Key Features

  • Incline: Manual 0-5%
  • Motor: 4.0 HP
  • Deck: 20×45 in
  • Weight Capacity: 450 lbs
  • Foldable: No
  • Price: $$

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A 20-inch wide running belt and 4.0 HP motor create a stable platform for larger runners, handling loads up to 450 lbs without wobble. Unlike treadmills with auto incline, this model prioritizes raw capacity over gradient variety — the incline is set manually to either 0% or 5%, with no fine-tuning or automatic adjustment.

This treadmill fits heavy users who need a wide, stable deck and don’t require gradual incline changes. The limited number of reviews means long-term durability is less documented, so buying from a retailer with a solid return policy is sensible.

Pros

  • Heavy-duty frame supports users up to 450 lbs with no noticeable wobble
  • Wide 20” x 45” deck gives ample room for natural running stride
  • Quiet brushless motor allows use without disturbing others in the home
  • Assembly is straightforward with clear, step-by-step instructions

Cons

  • Incline limited to two manual settings (0% and 5%) – no variable adjustment or auto control

For heavy runners who value stability and deck width over incline variety, this WELLFIT delivers at a mid-range price. If you need gradual or auto incline, consider an alternative with full incline range.

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Best for Family Use

CIIHI AM729

CIIHI AM729

Key Features

  • Incline: 15% auto
  • Motor: 3.0 HP
  • Deck: 43×17 in
  • Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Price: $$

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The CIIHI AM729 stands out with its height-adjustable handrails and voice control — features that let multiple users of different heights share the same treadmill without compromise. The 15% auto incline and 400 lb capacity add to its versatility, making it a strong alternative to the Sunny SF-T723030 for households that prioritize adjustability over deck width.

This treadmill suits families where walkers and joggers of varying statures use the same machine. The adjustable handrails accommodate everyone from short to tall, while the voice control and app connectivity offer convenient hands-free speed and incline changes. However, the 8.7 mph top speed means it’s not built for serious running, and motor noise can be noticeable at higher speeds — a consideration if your home has thin floors or you prefer quiet workouts.

Build quality feels solid for a mid-range price, and owners report the incline mechanism is stable and easy to adjust. The folding design saves floor space when not in use. While most units run acceptably, some have been noted to produce more noise than expected, especially above 6 mph — placing a thick mat underneath helps dampen footfall vibration.

💡 Tip: Place the treadmill on a thick mat to reduce vibration noise transfer to rooms below.

Pros

  • Height-adjustable handrails fit multiple family members comfortably.
  • Auto incline up to 15% is stable and responsive to voice commands.
  • Strong value for the feature set — voice control and app connectivity included.
  • Solid construction and 400 lb capacity feel premium for the price.

Cons

  • Motor noise can be noticeable at higher speeds, especially in quiet settings.
  • 8.7 mph top speed limits use for faster running intervals.

Best suited for a household where multiple family members walk or jog at moderate speeds and value adjustable ergonomics more than raw speed or whisper-quiet operation.

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Best for Hill Hikers

Ateedge AT5315A

Ateedge AT5315A

Key Features

  • Incline: 20% auto
  • Motor: 3.0 HP
  • Deck: 19×46 in
  • Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
  • Foldable: No
  • Price: $$

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The Ateedge AT5315A delivers a 20% auto incline that rivals treadmills costing much more, making it a strong option for hill simulation on a budget. The wide 18.5-inch belt and 350-pound capacity support larger frames, and assembly is quick with handlebar controls for easy adjustments. However, the incline mechanism has been known to develop issues within the first few weeks of use in some units, and the 45.5-inch deck limits stride length for taller users. This machine suits walkers and joggers under 6 feet who prioritize steep grades and can accept the reliability tradeoff.

💡 Tip: The shorter deck works well for walking and light jogging — check your stride length before buying if you’re over 6′ tall.

Pros

  • 20% auto incline is among the steepest at this price point
  • Wide belt and high weight capacity accommodate larger users
  • Simple setup with intuitive handlebar controls

Cons

  • Incline mechanism may require service in some units after a few weeks
  • 45.5-inch deck limits stride length for users over 6′ tall

Best for budget-conscious hikers who want a steep max incline and don’t need a full-size running deck, provided they’re comfortable with the potential for early incline mechanism issues.

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Best for Ifit Users

ProForm Carbon TL

ProForm Carbon TL

Key Features

  • Incline: 10% auto
  • Motor: 2.6 HP
  • Deck: 18×55 in
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Price: $$

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A sturdy, quiet treadmill with a long running surface, the ProForm Carbon TL offers a premium feel and easy assembly for a mid-range price. The 55-inch deck accommodates most runners, and the motor runs smoothly. However, the 10% incline ceiling is modest compared to similarly priced machines that offer 12-15% auto incline, and full functionality requires an iFIT membership – without it, manual mode is stripped down. For buyers already in the iFIT ecosystem, this is a natural choice; for those seeking maximum incline or subscription-free operation, better value exists elsewhere.

Pros

  • Quiet, sturdy motor praised by owners for stable runs
  • Assembly is straightforward compared to other iFIT models
  • Integrates smoothly with iFIT for guided training and auto incline

Cons

  • Incline limited to 10% – less than many competitors at this price
  • Full features require an iFIT subscription; manual mode is basic

Best suited for runners who prefer the iFIT ecosystem and value a long, quiet deck over steep inclines or subscription-free operation.

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Best for Heavy Walkers

CURSOR P8

CURSOR P8

Key Features

  • Incline: Manual 0/10/18%
  • Motor: 3.0 HP
  • Deck: 38×15 in
  • Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Price: $

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The CURSOR P8 pairs a 400 lb weight capacity with an 18% manual incline at a budget-friendly price – a rare combination for walking pads. Its quiet motor and sturdy frame suit apartment dwellers who want a compact machine for walking or light jogging. However, the 37.5-inch deck limits stride for anyone over 5’8", and the incline has only three preset levels (0%, 10%, 18%) without gradual adjustment. If you need to run or want automatic incline control, this is not the right tool.

Pros

  • Sturdy frame supports up to 400 lbs without wobble.
  • Ready to use in minutes – no complicated assembly required.
  • Quiet operation allows walking during phone calls or TV.

Cons

  • Deck is short (37.5") and narrow (15") – limits stride for taller users or jogging.
  • Incline is only adjustable to three fixed levels – no gradual change during use.

For walkers who need a high weight capacity and a manual incline on a budget, this is a solid option – but runners and tall users should look at models with longer decks and auto incline.

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Best for Budget Walkers

Yuejiqi 3220S

Yuejiqi 3220S

Key Features

  • Incline: 15% auto
  • Motor: 3.5 HP
  • Deck: 42×16 in
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Price: $

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The YUEJIQI 3220S delivers auto incline at a budget-friendly price, with easy assembly and a compact design that folds flat for storage under a bed or sofa. The motor is quiet for a brushless unit, though some units develop a squeak from the front pulley — worth checking on delivery. The real limitation is the 42-by-16 inch deck: fine for walking, but too short for jogging or running. For walkers in tight apartments who want auto incline without spending more, this is a practical fit.

Pros

  • Auto incline at an entry-level price that most budget treadmills skip
  • Folds completely flat for storage under furniture
  • Easy assembly with intuitive controls

Cons

  • Deck is too short for running; best reserved for walking
  • Front pulley may produce a squeak in some units

If you walk daily in a small apartment and auto incline is a must, this is the most affordable option — just don’t expect to run on it.

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Best for Budget Walkers

LONTEK SF10

LONTEK SF10

Key Features

  • Incline: Manual 0/10/16%
  • Motor: 3.0 HP
  • Deck: 38×15 in
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Price: $

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The LONTEK SF10 delivers a 16% manual incline—rare at this price—in a compact frame that folds flat for under-bed storage. Users report it’s quiet and requires no assembly. The tradeoff is a small deck (38.2" x 15.2") that limits use to walking; taller individuals will find the stride constrained. The manual incline offers only three fixed levels (0%, 10%, 16%) with no fine adjustment. This is a capable walking pad for budget-conscious buyers who want the steepest incline available without moving up to a larger machine.

Pros

  • Solid build quality and quiet 3.0 HP brushless motor for a budget walking pad.
  • No assembly required; ready to walk immediately out of the box.
  • Folds flat to store under a bed, ideal for small apartments.

Cons

  • Manual incline with only three fixed levels (0%/10%/16%) – no fine adjustment mid-walk.
  • Small deck (38.2" x 15.2") is too short for jogging or tall users.

For walkers on a budget who want the highest manual incline in a space-saving footprint, the LONTEK is a sensible choice—provided you don’t need to run or adjust incline mid-stride.

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Best for Home Runners

THERUN TR04

THERUN TR04

Key Features

  • Incline: 15% auto
  • Motor: 3.5 HP
  • Deck: 47×17 in
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Price: $$

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The THERUN TR04’s 3.5 HP motor and 15% auto incline deliver hill training that matches the top pick’s range, with a wider belt than many budget alternatives. Assembly is quick, and the Bluetooth app adds convenience for tracking workouts.

Where this treadmill gives ground to the top pick is high-speed stability: some units develop a squeak or wobble at steeper inclines and faster paces. Customer service response times can also lag, particularly during holiday periods.

This treadmill suits home runners who want auto incline at a competitive price and are comfortable with occasional maintenance. It’s less ideal for those who need rock-solid stability at top speeds or prefer a brand with immediate support.

💡 Tip: Tighten deck bolts periodically to minimize possible squeaking at steep inclines.

Pros

  • Solid overall build quality for home walking and running
  • Smooth auto incline up to 15% for intensity control
  • Good value with wide belt, fast assembly, and Bluetooth

Cons

  • Customer service response can be slow during peak periods
  • At higher speeds and inclines, occasional squeaking or wobble may develop over time

A capable mid-range treadmill with strong motor and incline features, best suited for runners who prioritize hill training over absolute stability.

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Best for Budget Walkers

Renestar X918

Renestar X918

Key Features

  • Incline: 15% auto
  • Motor: 3.0 HP
  • Deck: 17×46 in
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Price: $

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The Renestar X918 is the least expensive way to get both auto incline and Bluetooth connectivity in a folding treadmill. Assembly is near-instant, and the frame feels solid given the entry-level price. However, the 16.5-inch running surface is narrow enough to feel restrictive for anyone with a natural running stride, and the incline mechanism has shown occasional inconsistency in reaching or maintaining 15%. These constraints make the X918 a good fit for light walking or gentle jogging in a compact home, rather than regular running or hill training.

💡 Tip: Use shorter strides and keep the speed under 6 MPH – the narrow belt suits walking and light jogging better than full running strides.

Pros

  • Build quality feels solid for the price point.
  • Assembly takes about 15 minutes with 95% pre-assembled.
  • Bluetooth connectivity and auto incline at a budget-friendly entry price.

Cons

  • Narrow 16.5-inch belt may feel restrictive for runners with a natural stride.
  • Incline mechanism can be inconsistent, with some units not reaching or holding the full 15%.

A viable budget option for buyers who prioritize auto incline and low cost and plan to walk or light jog, but the narrow deck and potential incline reliability make it a secondary choice for regular running.

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Best for Quiet Joggers

THERUN TB1543B

THERUN TB1543B

Key Features

  • Incline: 12% auto
  • Motor: 3.0 HP
  • Deck: 47×17 in
  • Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
  • Foldable: Yes
  • Price: $

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The THERUN TB1543B stands out for its whisper-quiet brushless motor—under 20 dB in operation, making it one of the least intrusive options for apartment use. Assembly takes about 20 minutes thanks to a 90% pre-assembled design, and the hydraulic folding system makes storage simple. The 12% auto incline adds hill simulation without manual adjustments, a feature rarely found at this price. The tradeoff is a top speed of 8.7 MPH, which limits running capability; serious runners or those needing interval training above that pace will find it inadequate. The machine also lacks a library of preset workouts, so users who prefer guided programs will need to rely on third-party apps or manual control.

Pros

  • Extremely quiet operation – under 20 dB, ideal for apartments
  • Easy to assemble and fold with 90% pre-assembled design
  • Good value with auto incline and brushless motor at a competitive price

Cons

  • Maximum speed of 8.7 MPH may be insufficient for jogging or running intervals
  • Limited workout programs; no built-in preset routines or app integration

Best for apartment dwellers who walk or light jog and want auto incline without noise complaints, but not for those needing higher speeds or diverse workout programs.

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How to Choose

The most important decision when buying an incline treadmill is choosing between manual and auto incline—auto adds convenience and gradual adjustment, but often comes at a higher price and requires a reliable mechanism.

Incline Range and Type

Manual incline uses fixed levels (e.g., 0%, 10%, 16%) that you adjust by lifting or folding the deck before stepping on. This works for walkers but interrupts a running stride. Auto incline lets you change the slope mid-workout with a button or app—ideal for interval training or simulating rolling hills.

Incline range matters more than you think: 10% feels like a moderate hill, 15% is genuine mountain simulation. Many budget auto models top out at 12–15%, while premium ones rarely exceed 15%. Steeper isn’t always better if the motor struggles under load; check user feedback for incline reliability.

Motor Power and Speed

Motor horsepower (HP) directly affects how smoothly the belt runs at higher speeds and inclines. A 2.5 HP motor is adequate for walking and light jogging at low incline. For regular running at 6–10 MPH with 10%+ incline, look for at least 3.0 HP continuous duty.

Peak speed is a secondary concern—most home treadmills cap at 10 MPH, which is a 6-minute mile. If you only walk or jog, 7–8 MPH is sufficient. A higher HP motor also tends to run quieter and last longer, but it adds weight and cost.

Deck Dimensions

Deck length is the critical dimension for comfortable running: a 55-inch belt fits a 6-foot stride, while 40–45 inches forces shorter steps and risks hitting the front console. For walkers, 40 inches is adequate. Belt width affects side-to-side comfort—16 inches feels narrow, 20 inches gives room for natural arm swing.

The hidden trade-off: folding treadmills often have shorter decks (45–47 inches) to save space. If you’re over 5’10" and plan to run, prioritize deck length over foldability. Measure your stride at home before buying.

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity isn’t just a safety number—it reflects frame rigidity and motor torque. A 300 lb capacity treadmill is fine for most users under 250 lbs. Heavy users (300+ lbs) should seek 350–450 lb ratings to avoid wobble and premature bearing wear.

Beware that capacity is tested statically; dynamic loads during running can exceed the limit. If you’re near the max, choose a model with a wider belt and stronger motor for stability.

Foldability and Storage

Folding treadmills save floor space but introduce hinge points that can loosen over time. Hydraulic soft-drop mechanisms are preferred over manual latches. A one-click fold (like Sunny’s) is faster than multi-step designs.

Consider the folded footprint: some models stand upright (28×30 inches), others lie flat (under 10 inches thick). If storing under a bed, thickness matters. For small apartments, a walking pad that slides under a sofa may be more practical than a full folding treadmill.

Common Mistake: Many buyers focus on incline percentage and motor HP while ignoring deck length—a 15% incline on a 40-inch deck forces an unnatural stride for anyone over 5’8", making the feature nearly unusable for running.

FAQ

What does 15% incline feel like on a treadmill?

15% incline is roughly a 1:6.7 grade—similar to a steep hiking trail or stair climb. At a walking pace of 3 MPH, it elevates your heart rate significantly and engages glutes and calves. Most casual walkers will find 10% challenging enough, while 15% is best for interval training or simulating mountain terrain.

Can a walking pad with manual incline replace a real treadmill?

For walking and light jogging, yes—especially if you have limited space or a tight budget. Manual incline pads (like Acezoe P11-S) are compact and quiet, but their short decks (40 inches) and fixed incline levels make them unsuitable for running or tall users. A full treadmill with auto incline and a 55-inch deck remains the better choice for runners.

Why does my treadmill incline stop working after a few weeks?

The most common cause is a faulty incline motor or stripped gears—common in budget auto incline models that use plastic components instead of metal. Another reason is insufficient lubrication at the hinge points. To avoid this, choose a treadmill with metal incline brackets and positive customer feedback specifically praising incline reliability. An extended warranty is strongly recommended for any auto incline treadmill under $500.

Do I need an iFIT subscription to use a NordicTrack treadmill?

Basic manual mode works without a subscription—you can change speed and incline yourself. However, preset workouts, automatic speed/incline adjustments, and interactive coaching require an iFIT membership. If you don’t plan to subscribe, the NordicTrack’s 10% incline and higher price become less compelling compared to non-subscription competitors like the Sunny or THERUN.

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