Fitness
Work From Home

The best under-desk treadmills for strolling through your workday

These walking pads will help you hit your step count goals without missing a single email
By Ashley Keegan  on 
All products featured here are independently selected by our editors and writers. If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission.

Our Top 7 Picks

WalkingPad P1 Ultra Slim Foldable Treadmill (opens in a new tab)

Best Overall

The WalkingPad P1 leads the pack with an extra-long deck and easy-to-store folding treadmill design.

The Good

  • Ultra-slim design
  • Smart foot-sensing speed control
  • Good for longer strides
  • Foldable for storing
  • Relatively lightweight

The Bad

  • Not made for running
  • No support bar for using away from desk

The Bottom Line

If you have very little space to store your under-desk treadmill when it's not in use, the WalkingPad folding treadmill is the superior choice.
Pros & Cons

Sunny Health & Fitness Slim Walking Pad Treadmill with Automated Desk (opens in a new tab)

Best with a Desk

Why try to fit a treadmill under your desk when you can get this Sunny Health & Fitness walkstation that already comes with a perfect-fit desktop?

The Good

  • Desk included
  • Adjustable incline
  • Generous speed range
  • Shock-absorbing desk
  • Nice presets

The Bad

  • No support bar when detached from desk

The Bottom Line

The all-in-one Sunny Health & Fitness walkstation helps you avoid the stress of measuring and trying to match a standing desk to your under-desk treadmill.
Pros & Cons

Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill (opens in a new tab)

Best 2-in-1

Used as a desk walking treadmill or a standalone running treadmill, this 2-in-1 workout machine will keep you active.

The Good

  • Speed range for walking and running
  • Detachable arms
  • Nice choice of colors
  • Folds flat for storage
  • Powerful, but ultra-quiet

The Bad

  • Should not be used on carpet as it may overheat

The Bottom Line

If you're seeking a capable treadmill to use both under your desk and on its own, this is a relatively budget-friendly pick.
Pros & Cons

UREVO 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill (opens in a new tab)

Best for Running

The UREVO is a more expensive — but also more tech-advanced — alternative to the Goplus 2-in-1 folding treadmill.

The Good

  • Good for running and walking
  • Multiple color choices
  • Fold-down handrail
  • Arrives fully assembled
  • Non-slip, cushioned deck

The Bad

  • Similar features, but more expensive than Goplus

The Bottom Line

If you're seeking a 2-in-1 machine for workday walking and off-hours running, this UREVO treadmill offers some nice tech features.
Pros & Cons

Under Desk Treadmill DAEYEGIM (opens in a new tab)

Best on a Budget

Slim, lightweight, and affordable, this under-desk treadmill is a solid choice for anyone — not just those on a budget.

The Good

  • Budget-friendly
  • Ultra-thin and lightweight
  • Relatively quiet
  • Good shock absorption
  • No installation necessary

The Bad

  • No handrail or support bar

The Bottom Line

If you're wary about committing too much money to an under-desk treadmill, this budget-friendly option is a great choice.
Pros & Cons

Unsit Under Desk Treadmill (opens in a new tab)

Best Splurge

While it's certainly an investment, the Unsit Treadmill is a safe and sturdy choice for a more inclusive set of users.

The Good

  • Very quiet
  • Accessible design
  • Heavy-duty construction
  • Engineered for safety
  • Nice tracking app

The Bad

  • Very expensive
  • Very heavy
  • Does not go very fast

The Bottom Line

As long as you have a standing desk wide enough to accommodate the Unsit Treadmill (and you don't plan to move it around), it's a great choice for adding low-impact activity to your day.
Pros & Cons

Egofit Walker M1/M1T Under Desk Electric Walking Treadmill (opens in a new tab)

Best with Incline

The ideal choice if an incline is a must-have on your under-desk treadmill checklist.

The Good

  • Quiet operation
  • Compact treadmill design
  • 5-degree incline
  • Relatively easy to move

The Bad

  • Incline is not adjustable

The Bottom Line

EGOFIT is a good choice if the challenge of an incline is high on your list of must-haves, but it may not be ideal for those times when you need to type or read.
Pros & Cons

I'm about to hit you with some hard facts so... are you sitting down?

Just kidding — you don't have to answer that. Studies show that the average American adult sits for nearly 10 hours every day(opens in a new tab) so there's a good chance that you are right now. (Me too, don't worry.) But what is particularly worrisome is that sitting for more than just four hours per day can lead to a higher risk of back aches and depression at best, and heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer in the worst-case scenarios. Those risks just get riskier with more time spent sitting, but the American Heart Association(opens in a new tab) notes that even light-intensity activity (e.g., walking) can offset some of the worst side effects of being sedentary.

Okay, so sit less, move more — simple, right? Well, if you work a job where you need to have your eyes glued to a screen for the vast majority of your workday, it can be surprisingly difficult to add in that "move more" part. You can sit less by switching to a standing desk, of course, and that can be a significant health improvement on its own. However, adding some actual physical activity into the mix is even better, so move over, standing desk — the treadmill desk has entered the chat.

What is an under-desk treadmill?

As the name implies, under-desk treadmills are simply treadmills that are made to fit easily under a standing desk in your home office (even if that’s just a corner of your living room). They're typically narrower than a traditional treadmill, and they either have a handrail that can fold down flush around the treadmill's deck, or they don't have a handrail at all.

Do under-desk treadmills work?

Just like any other piece of at-home gym equipment, under-desk treadmills only work if you use them. Also sometimes referred to as “walking treadmills” or "walking pads," most of them are not designed to go very fast, so you shouldn't expect to get the same kind of workout as you would on ordinary treadmills. This also makes sense because typing and reading on a screen while trying to run is an uncomfortable — if not impossible — task. 

Rather, under-desk treadmills are designed so you can walk at a relatively leisurely pace during the course of your workday to help you burn some extra calories and smash your daily step count goals. Does it replace going to the gym for a heart-pumping sweat session? No. But is it an infinitely healthier choice than just sitting on your butt all day? Absolutely.

Whether you utilize it while answering emails, writing reports, or listening to low-participation meetings with your camera and mic turned off, a treadmill workstation can help you improve circulation, avoid body pain from sitting too long, and reduce your risk of an early death. Bonus (as if that’s not enough): It could even help boost productivity and creativity, and lower stress levels, too!

When our assistant reviews editor Miller Kern gave her walking pad setup a try, she noted that the increased daily movement actually improved her energy levels, helping her ease through morning grogginess and conquer the universally dreaded afternoon slumps.

"I’ve loved having different options for how I moved or positioned my body throughout my workday at home," Miller says. "Especially living in a small apartment, it’s been so nice to feel like I have some range of motion."

Just make sure that you keep good posture while walking on your under-desk treadmill, and gradually work your way up to longer desk-walking sessions; no need to attempt a marathon (like some aspirational TikTok girlies(opens in a new tab)) on your first day — or even in your first few months, for that matter.

How do I choose a treadmill under my desk?

When shopping for a walking pad or under-desk treadmill, consider the following:

  • Speed range. All walking pads will be suitable for taking leisurely strolls of 2 MPH or slower. However, some under-desk treadmills can reach higher speeds more comparable to a running treadmill — sometimes over 7 MPH — so you can speed-walk, run, and generally maximize your workout both at your desk and away from it.

  • Dimensions. If you already have a standing desk setup in your home office, you'll want to keep a close eye on the overall dimensions of the under-desk treadmill or walking pad you'd like to purchase. If it's too wide to fit under your existing desk, you won't be able to use it properly. Similarly, consider both the deck width and length to ensure that the walking area will accommodate your stride. Some taller folks may have a longer stride that could overreach a treadmill deck that's too short in length, but a longer deck may not fit in small spaces.

  • Ease of storage. The size of the walking pad also comes into play when you think about where you'll store it when not in use. Some walking treadmills are built with a fold-up handrail for use away from your desk as well, so just make sure that component can fold flat. Generally speaking, a walking pad should be able to slide easily under a bed or couch, making it the perfect solution for small spaces.

  • Weight capacity. You'll also want to consider the maximum weight recommendation for users; many walking pads tend to have a weight capacity of about 220 pounds, but you can definitely find options that are more accommodating.

  • Maneuverability. Speaking of weight, consider the item's weight and whether or not it has built-in transport wheels that make the walking pad easy to move around your home office, living room, bedroom — wherever. The easier it is to set up and put away, the more likely you are to keep up with the habit.

Do any under-desk treadmills incline?

Most under-desk treadmills do not have an incline feature as it would make it a bit more tricky to use while working at a desktop. That said, they're not impossible to find!

Can you use an under-desk treadmill on carpet?

Using your under-desk treadmill on a low-pile carpet should be okay, but a more plush carpet could cause the treadmill to overheat. Fortunately, you can get a treadmill mat(opens in a new tab) to place on top of your carpet to keep air flowing and act as a safety shield from dust and carpet fibers. That said, you may also want to place a mat under your treadmill if you have hardwood floors to avoid damaging them (and to dampen sound a little bit if you live above neighbors).

Which is better: under-desk treadmill or under-desk bike?

When comparing under-desk treadmills and under-desk bikes, it honestly comes down to your fitness goals and the nature of your work. While we've already noted that typing and reading can be a little tricky while walking at your treadmill workstation because of the full-body movement, an under-desk bike typically keeps your upper body stationary, so you might find it easier to get work done. (It may also be the better choice if you're prone to motion sickness.)

That said, there are several different styles of under-desk bikes — some of which may make it more difficult to work comfortably, especially if you have longer legs. Some under-desk bikes also allow you to achieve a much more strenuous cardio workout than walking treadmills, though you may need to reserve those sweat sessions for low-participation meetings when your mic and camera are off, just as you would for more intense workouts on an under-desk treadmill.

But, just like the difference between walking pads and ordinary treadmills, there's still a big difference between under-desk bikes and a true cardio workout on a Peloton or other fitness bike. Neither of these under-desk versions of gym equipment should replace true workouts, but they're both great options for adding activity to your daily routine.

Best Overall
Credit: WalkingPad
Specs
  • Maximum speed: 4 MPH
  • Deck length: 57 inches
  • Deck width: 16 inches
  • Weight capacity: 220 pounds
  • Item weight: 62 pounds
  • Transport wheels: Yes
  • Can be stored flat: Yes

The WalkingPad P1 stands out from the pack with a longer deck than most other under-desk treadmill options, allowing taller users to achieve a more comfortable stride without running out of room. Deck lengths are usually kept significantly shorter than the WalkingPad P1's generous 57 inches so that they can be stored away easily in small spaces. However, the P1 is also unique in that it boasts a 180-degree folding design so you can easily slide it under a couch, your bed, or even an armchair when not in use.

While the WalkingPad P1 has a relatively simple design as far as under-desk treadmills go, it really impressed our assistant reviews editor Miller Kern. She found it very easy to set up and use, and she particularly liked the connected app which allows users to control the treadmill's speed, make workout plans, and track walking distance. The WalkingPad folding treadmill also comes with a remote control, and you can even change the speed with your foot placement on the walking pad itself.

Best with a Desk
Credit: Sunny Health & Fitness
Specs
  • Maximum speed: 6.2 MPH
  • Deck length: 47.2 inches
  • Deck width: 15.7 inches
  • Weight capacity: 240 pounds
  • Item weight: 128.3 pounds (combined with desk)
  • Transport wheels: Yes
  • Can be stored flat: Yes

If you don't already own a standing desk, you'll have to buy one to use with your under-desk treadmill — but this Sunny Health & Fitness walkstation provides an easy, all-in-one solution at a pretty great value. The desk is height-adjustable from 37 to 53 inches and fits perfectly with the under-desk treadmill, but each piece can also be used separately. Whether walking, jogging, or running, you can adjust the treadmill wirelessly via the controls built into the desktop. It also features a small display where you can track your walking or running speed, distance walked, calories burned, and cycle through the 10 preset workout programs. The running surface is decently sized and has built-in shock absorption to ease stress on your feet and joints. You can also manually adjust the incline up to 4.9 degrees, which is a somewhat rare feature for under-desk treadmills.

Best 2-in-1
Credit: Goplus
Specs
  • Maximum speed: 7.5 MPH
  • Deck length: 40 inches
  • Deck width: 16 inches
  • Weight capacity: 265 pounds
  • Item weight: 69.5 pounds
  • Transport wheels: Yes
  • Can be stored flat: Yes

Whether you want to walk while working or go for a stationary run away from your desk, this 2-in-1 treadmill has you covered. Simply fold up the handrail and switch into running treadmill mode to maximize your workout regimen with one simple machine. It also comes with detachable arms for added stability, particularly when nearing the treadmill's impressive max speed of 7.5 MPH — significantly faster than most other desk walking treadmills. It also has a higher weight capacity (265 pounds) than many other under-desk treadmills, and it provides shock absorption and sound insulation for a smoother, quieter workout. It features a Bluetooth speaker, an LED display screen for monitoring workout data, a remote control, app connectivity, and a built-in phone holder as well.

Best for Running
Credit: UREVO
Specs
  • Maximum speed: 7.6 MPH
  • Deck length: 40 inches
  • Deck width: 17 inches
  • Weight capacity: 265 pounds
  • Item weight: 67 pounds
  • Transport wheels: Yes
  • Can be stored flat: Yes

Another nice 2-in-1 option is this under-desk treadmill from UREVO. Similar to the Goplus, it has a generous max speed of 7.6 MPH in running mode and a deck length of 40 inches, though it has a slightly wider deck than the Goplus. It also has a 5-layer, non-slip running belt with silica gel column support to cushion the impact on your joints, especially while running. Its remote control, fitness-tracking LED display (with time, speed, distance, and calories burned), and built-in phone holder and controls on the handrail give it the upper hand over the Goplus in the tech department. However, the handlebar height cannot be adjusted, so it may not be the most supportive or comfortable fit for taller users.

Best on a Budget
Credit: DAEYEGIM
Specs
  • Maximum speed: 5 MPH
  • Deck length: 41 inches
  • Deck width: 15.3 inches
  • Weight capacity: 265 pounds
  • Item weight: 40 pounds
  • Transport wheels: Yes
  • Can be stored flat: Yes

If you're looking to work a little more movement into your daily routine but you're also working with a tight budget, this under-desk treadmill is a nice choice that won't break the bank. It doesn't have a fold-up handrail for support when using it away from your standing desk, but it's perfect for strolling or speed-walking your way through the workday. At just about 40 pounds, it's the most lightweight treadmill on this list. And, combined with its two transport wheels, that makes this under-desk treadmill the easiest to set up and put away. The treadmill is also particularly slim, so it has a better chance of fitting under furniture with low clearance.

Best Splurge
Credit: InMovement
Specs
  • Deck length: 40 inches
  • Deck width: 30 inches
  • Weight capacity: 400 pounds
  • Item weight: 162 pounds
  • Transport wheels: Yes
  • Can be stored flat: Yes

While the Unsit Treadmill is wildly expensive at first glance, there are a lot of factors that set it apart from the seemingly endless field of other under-desk treadmills. First, its running belt is significantly wider; at 30 inches, it's nearly double the width of any other deck on this list. Its walking area is also not as long as some other desk walking treadmills which limit potential trip hazards. Another standout spec is that its max user capacity is 400 pounds. All of these factors combined make for a more comfortable walking experience for a greater range of ages, sizes, and mobilities. (We just wish that accessibility didn't come at such a premium cost.)

The Unsit Treadmill also boasts a Bluetooth-connected app for tracking progress, an auto-shutoff safety feature, and super-quiet operation. However, it tops out at just 2 MPH, further highlighting its intention to be an accessible choice for more users to add activity to their day — not a true replacement for heart-pumping cardio workouts.

Best with Incline
Credit: Egofit
Specs
  • Maximum speed: 3.1 MPH
  • Deck length: 47 inches
  • Deck width: 16.5 inches
  • Weight capacity: 220 pounds
  • Item weight: 55 pounds
  • Transport wheels: Yes
  • Can be stored flat: Yes

If flat treadmills won't provide enough of a challenge for your workday workouts, this desk walking treadmill is designed with a 5-degree incline to amp up the action. Just keep in mind that this is a fixed incline design, so it is not adjustable. The speed, however, is adjustable up to 3.1 MPH. 

This Egofit walking pad is relatively lightweight and has two wheels at the front, so it's pretty easy for one person to maneuver. It's also a particularly compact treadmill in terms of footprint — though it stands a bit taller because of the incline, so it may not fit as easily under low-clearance furniture, like a couch.

How we tested

How we chose

While we haven't had the opportunity to conduct hands-on testing for all of these under-desk treadmills and walking pads, our assistant reviews editor loves her WalkingPad P1 so much that we knew that model had to make our list. Beyond that, we put forth hours of careful research to find a variety of the best under-desk treadmills for a range of different users.

First, we prioritized under-desk treadmills that were well-rated and had no glaring issues with their functionality (at least not that we could find among a large portion of user reviews). We leaned toward walking pads with hundreds or even thousands of reviews, and a high overall product rating; though these numbers can be fudged, a high number of legitimate ratings often points to a product that is regarded to be dependable and well-made.

In order to cater to a variety of use cases, we took the following factors into consideration:

  • Variation. We strived to include under-desk treadmills that could reach higher speeds and be used away from a desk setup if the user wanted to maximize the functionality of their purchase. We also sought out options with incline, a rarity in the field.

  • Price. While many walking pads and under-desk treadmills tend to fall around the $300–$500 range, we wanted to include more budget-friendly options as well as splurge-worthy choices to help would-be customers make the best decision for their treadmill workstation needs as well as their wallet.

Mashable Image
Ashley Keegan

Ashley Keegan is a freelance contributor to Mashable.


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