Sole F80 vs Sole F85 – Comparison

If you are debating between the Sole F80 and the Sole F85 treadmill, this article will point out some of the similarities and differences between the two machines, so you can pick the one that is best for you.

Sole is an industry leader, so you can’t really go wrong with either machine, but this will help you make an educated decision.

In the comparison below, I owned both and share my perspective on both treadmills.  If I you want to skip the comparison, I would pick the F85 over the F80 as it has more features than the older version. 

Side note, I bought both used. I created a used treadmill price guide that helps you save money and know what to look for when buying a used treadmill. 

Sole F80 vs Sole F85 - Comparison Chart:

Since the Sole F80 and Sole F85 treadmills are from the same brand, there will be a lot of similarities. For example, they have practically the same accessories: cooling fan, extra accessory tray, water bottle holders, auxiliary input, and built-in speakers.

Both machines offer pulse sensor EKG grips and are compatible with chest strap heart rate monitors that can be purchased separately.

Depending on the model year you’re looking into, your Sole F80 or Sole F85 may also include an integrated tablet holder, Bluetooth audio speakers, and a USB port for charging devices.

Both machines feature 0-12 MPH incremental speed options and a 0-15% incline range. The belts are both 22” x 60” and have Cushion Flex Whisper Deck technology to help reduce impact to your joints.

Both share the same foldable deck, space-saving design. They even have the same 10 pre-programmed, built-in workouts to help you reach your fitness goals.

The Sole F85 is typically more expensive than the Sole F80. We have a full review of the F80 that you can check out here if you would like an more in-depth analysis of the features. This is likely due to the larger motor size and larger console display on the Sole F85.

Both machines have sizable motors. The Sole F80 has a 3.75 CHP motor, and the Sole F85 has a 4.0 CHP motor.

The size of your treadmill motor impacts the consistency of your speed, the sound of your machine, and the ability to support larger user weights, more demanding workouts, and steeper inclines with ease.

For these reasons, some people tend to prefer to the Sole F85 – its larger motor means you enjoy a quieter, softer run that can keep up with even your incline and speed intervals for a long period of time.

For people who weigh more, the weight limits of the machine can be a serious consideration. The Sole F80 supports a maximum user weight of 375 pounds. The Sole F85 supports a maximum user weight of 400 pounds.

This is one difference, as a result of the larger motor of the Sole F85 – it can support heavier users more easily.

Extra Features:

When it comes to a basic LCD display, some people will want to go with the larger screen. Maybe it is easier for them to see, or they think it will display more stats.

Other people end up covering their screen with a tablet, magazine, or book, so the size of the display is not a factor in their decision. If you are looking for a larger screen, the Sole F85 is the machine for you.

If the screen size is not an important factor in your treadmill decision, you won’t be bothered by the smaller screen on the Sole F80. This is really a matter of personal preference. In all other ways besides size, the displays are the same.

The F80 is often compared to the NordicTrack C 1650, more than likely though runners choose the F85 or the C 1650 for various reasons including the main features. 

I do like how the buttons on both the F80 and 85 are enormous. 

Conclusion: Sole F80 vs Sole F85