Is an under desk walking treadmill worth it?

Whether or not an under desk treadmill is a good investment for you really depends on your needs and goals. If you’d like to be more active while working at a desk, a walking treadmill is a convenient way to get more steps in. An under desk treadmill won’t have the same speed or incline functionality as a traditional treadmill, so walking while working won’t replace a heart-pumping sweat session at the gym. However, it can definitely help you blast some more calories, boost your daily step count , and maybe even help push through morning fatigue or afternoon slumps at work. “By gradually introducing more movement to your life, your mind and body will start to crave those happy chemicals sustainably,” Thomas says. “You'll start looking for more ways to be active outside of the 9-5 life.”

Is an under desk treadmill or bike better?

Under desk treadmills and bikes are both easy ways for those with sedentary lifestyles to add more activity to their day. The best one for you will depend on your preferences, space limitations, and budget. Some people who spend a lot of time at a desk opt for a treadmill because it gets them out of their chair. However, treadmill desks take up more space and typically cost more than under desk bikes. They also require more maintenance and care to keep working smoothly and comfortably. Under desk bikes tend to be quieter than treadmills, but some users find it harder to concentrate on tasks while pedaling. However, some of the smaller models are inexpensive and very easy to move and store when not in use.

How long should you use an under desk treadmill for?

Walking is a healthy activity you can do every day, so it’s safe to use your walking treadmill daily. However, you should definitely consider your current fitness level before deciding how long you should walk on it, Thomas says. If you’re not used to walking long distances, you should limit yourself to an hour or two at first. A good strategy for beginners is to start out with 20 minutes at the start of your workday, 20 minutes following lunch, and then another 15 minutes in the mid-afternoon, according to Thomas. Keep the speed at a pace that feels very easy, and work your way up to longer walks.

Can you use under desk treadmills on carpet?

Using a desk treadmill on a low pile carpet is fine, but you should avoid putting it on a plush carpet, as it may overheat. To prevent that and protect the carpet, you can put a treadmill mat underneath the machine. A treadmill mat will also help minimize the amount of carpet fibers, dirt, pet hair, and dust that gets into the machine. Even if you’re using the treadmill on hardwood floors, you may still want to use a treadmill mat to reduce noise and avoid damaging the floor.

The 7 Best Under Desk Treadmills and Walking Pads of 2023

If you have a job that requires a lot of time spent sitting at a desk, there’s a good chance you have difficulty reaching your daily step goal. Fortunately, using an under desk treadmill is an easy way to increase your movement during a workday.

Also sometimes referred to as walking pads, under desk treadmills are made to fit easily beneath a standing desk, so you can walk as you’re taking video calls or answering emails. They're usually smaller and have a much lower maximum speed than fitness treadmills, and they either don’t have a handrail or have one that collapses down.

Using an under desk treadmill on a regular basis can help with weight loss efforts since it bumps up your daily activity level and calorie burn. According to certified athletic trainer Kyra Thomas, ATC, LAT, using an under desk treadmill can also help you reduce stiffness and push through bouts of sluggishness at work.

When choosing an under desk treadmill, look for one that’s compact, sturdy, and quiet. If you want more than a basic model, some treadmills have incline functionality, a clear display for tracking metrics, and Bluetooth and app connectivity.

To find the best under desk treadmills and walking pads on the market, we tested seven of the most popular ones at home, evaluating each machine over the span of four weeks. Our editors, who all have different levels of fitness and treadmill experience, thoroughly tested each one, completing a minimum of four walks per week. We paid close attention to each treadmill’s most notable features and rated them on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for the assembly process, ease of use, foldability, features, comfort, and overall value.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Egofit Under Desk Walking Treadmill at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Walking Pad:

WalkingPad C2 Smart Folding Treadmill at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best with Handrail:

Treadly 2 Basic at Treadly.co

Jump to Review

Most Affordable:

Goplus Electric Treadmill Touchable Wireless at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Petite Users:

Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Foldable:

WalkingPad Foldable Treadmill at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Small Spaces:

WalkingPad A1 Pro Foldable Under Desk Treadmill at Walkingpad.com

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
We Also Tested
How We Tested
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.9

Egofit

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Egofitwalker.com

Our Ratings

Ease of Setup

5/5
Ease of Use

4.7/5
Foldability

5/5
Features

5/5
Value

4.9/5

Pros

Compact and easy to use
5% incline
Quiet operation

Cons

No handrail
Lower maximum speed

Egofit’s Walker Pro-M1 Under Desk Treadmill’s compact design, easy and quiet operation, and extra features made it an easy pick for our best overall spot. It comes pre-assembled, so set-up was a breeze, as the machine was ready to use right out of the box. When testing, we found the treadmill to be extremely quiet, so you could even take work calls while getting your steps in. We also like that the LCD display lets you keep track of your steps, distance, speed, time, and calories.

With a maximum speed of 3.1 miles per hour, this treadmill can’t go quite as fast as some of the other ones we tested. However, unlike some other models, this one has a 5-percent incline, which helps crank up the calorie burn during your walking workouts. Just keep in mind that this is a fixed, not adjustable, incline, meaning you can only set the incline to 0 or 5 percent—nothing in between.

Even better, once you’re done, the treadmill is easy to move around with wheels on the bottom. And if space is limited in your office, the slim profile and small footprint let you store it in the corner or under a couch or bed. Overall, this treadmill is an affordable option for anyone who wants to add more activity to their workday.

Price at time of publication: $479

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 22 x 38 x 6.9 inches | Maximum Weight Capacity: 220 pounds | Speed Range: .5 to 3.1 MPH | Incline Range: 5% (fixed incline) | Product Weight: 55 pounds | Remote Control: Yes | Wheels: Yes}

Verywell Fit / Michael Navarro
Verywell Fit / Michael Navarro
Verywell Fit / Michael Navarro
Verywell Fit / Michael Navarro

4.6

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walkingpad.com

Our Ratings

Ease of Setup

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Foldability

4.5/5
Features

4.2/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Easy to set up and use
Quiet operation
Foldable, compact design

Cons

Feels a bit short
No handrail

For a basic, space-saving walking pad that’s easy to use, it’s tough to beat WalkingPad’s C2 Smart Folding Treadmill. Setting up the treadmill was simple and straightforward since it comes pre-assembled—you just need to unfold it and plug it in to get started.

During our test, we could easily adjust the treadmill’s pace by using the remote, and the treadmill’s LCD monitor let us view our steps, speed, time, and distance in real-time. The four-layer running belt allows for good shock absorption and noise reduction. In fact, the treadmill is quiet enough that it shouldn’t disturb colleagues or other household members when in use. When you’re finished using your walking pad for the day, it can easily be folded in half and stored under your desk, couch, or bed. Two rollers on the bottom make it easy to maneuver from one spot to another.

Like many of the other treadmills we tested, this one doesn’t feature a handrail, which we think would have helped improve its overall stability. Additionally, the 32.5-inch long walking surface felt a bit short, and might not be comfortable for very tall people or for those with larger feet. However, we think the small footprint and foldable design make this treadmill a solid pick for those with limited space.

Price at time of publication: $499

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 21.5 x 32.5 x 5 inches | Maximum Weight Capacity: 220 pounds | Speed Range: .5 to 3.75 MPM | Incline Range: None | Product Weight: 55 pounds | Remote Control: Yes | Wheels: Yes}

Verywell Fit / Nick Kova
Verywell Fit / Nick Kova

4.9

Treadly

View On Treadly.co

Our Ratings

Ease of Setup

5/5
Ease of Use

5/5
Foldability

5/5
Features

4.5/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Smart-control handrail system
Wide range of speeds
Very quiet operation

Cons

Heavier than other options
Pricier than competition

The Treadly 2 Basic treadmill is the only one we tested that has a handrail, making it a good option for those who want an under desk treadmill with a bit more stability. The handrail gives it the appearance and feel of a standard treadmill. However, since it folds down, you still get the convenience and portability of a more compact machine. What’s more, the handrail features smart controls, allowing you to easily change your speed or pause it with the touch of a button. You can also track your stats on the treadmill’s illuminated display.

Another feature that sets this treadmill apart from others on our list is its speed range, which goes up to 5 miles per hour. Unlike other under desk treadmills that top out at about 3.7 miles per hour, this one allows you to run or walk at a brisker pace. What’s more, it has a higher weight capacity than most other under desk treadmills we tested, and can safely support users of up to 265 pounds.

All those features add some weight and, at 77 pounds, this is the heaviest option we tested. However, the handrail unlocks and folds down and the treadmill’s front wheels make it easy to move and store. Even better, the rubber padding on the front allows for upright storage, if you want to conserve floor space.

This treadmill is more expensive than most of the competition, but we think it’s still worth the investment if you want a model with handrails and some other nice-to-have features.

Price at time of publication: $849

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 29 x 56 x 40.5 inches (with handrail open) | Maximum Weight Capacity: 265 pounds | Speed Range: .5 to 5 MPH | Incline Range: None | Product Weight: 77 pounds | Remote Control: Yes | Wheels: Yes}

Verywell Fit / Julia Warren
Verywell Fit / Julia Warren
Verywell Fit / Julia Warren
Verywell Fit / Julia Warren

4.6

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Goplusus.com

Our Ratings

Ease of Setup

5/5
Ease of Use

4.5/5
Foldability

4.5/5
Features

4.3/5
Value

4.8/5

Pros

Easy to set up and use
Good for beginners
Comfortable and stable

Cons

No handrail
Emits humming sound

The GoPlus Under Desk Treadmill is the most budget-friendly treadmill we tested and is a great option for those who just want a basic walking pad to get their daily steps in. It’s easy to set up and use, and while it’s not feature-packed, it includes a remote and an LED screen that displays your speed, distance, time, and calories burned.

The treadmill comes fully assembled so all we needed to do was attach the power cord and plug it in to get started. When testing, it was extremely easy to turn on the treadmill and adjust the speed with just a click of a button on the remote. The treadmill felt comfortable and stable, and walking on the thick, forgiving belt was definitely easier on the joints than strolling at a similar pace on pavement. We also liked that it’s easy to move and store away, thanks to the wheels on the bottom.

We did notice that the machine emits a humming sound while in use and, while it’s not too bothersome or distracting, it may be noticeable to officemates, apartment neighbors, or other household members. Additionally, we’d love it if the treadmill came with collapsible handrails, for extra stability. While it’s not whisper-quiet or super high-tech, we still think GoPlus’ treadmill is a great value for someone who wants a basic machine to stay active while working at a desk.

Price at time of publication: $350

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 23.5 x 51.5 x 6 inches | Maximum Weight Capacity: 220 pounds | Speed Range: .5 to 4 MPH | Incline Range: None | Product Weight: 55 pounds | Remote Control: Yes | Wheels: Yes}

4.4

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Dick's

Our Ratings

Ease of Setup

4.2/5
Ease of Use

4.1/5
Foldability

4.5/5
Features

4/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Comfortable and easy to use
Display screen with stats
Small footprint

Cons

May be too short for taller people
No incline or handrail

Sunny Health + Fitness’s Under Desk Treadmill is another affordable option that’s comfortable and easy to use. It’s a bit shorter than some of the other ones we tested, but it’s a great option for petite users who want a treadmill with a small footprint.

The machine comes pre-assembled so all you need to do after unboxing it is to use the included lubricant on the belt and plug it in. During testing, the treadmill felt sturdy and was fairly quiet, although it’s still loud enough that a downstairs neighbor may be able to hear it.

We like that the display screen lets you easily track your speed, steps, distance, calories burned, and time. Using the remote, it’s simple to change the speed or pause it, if you need to take a break. And, with wheels on the bottom, the treadmill is easy to move and store away once you’re finished.

Sunny’s under desk treadmill is a basic model that doesn’t incline or come with handrails or a cup holder. However, we still think it’s a solid choice for smaller users who want a no-frills model to help boost their daily step count.

Price at time of publication: $370

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 21.5 x 50 x 6.5 inches | Maximum Weight Capacity: 220 pounds | Speed Range: .5 to 3.75 | Incline Range: None | Product Weight: 55 pounds | Remote Control: Yes | Wheels: Yes}

Verywell Fit / Taylor Calta
Verywell Fit / Taylor Calta
Verywell Fit / Taylor Calta

4.3

WalkingPad

View On Amazon View On Walkingpad.com

Our Ratings

Ease of Setup

5/5
Ease of Use

4.5/5
Foldability

5/5
Features

3/5
Value

4/5

Pros

Convenient foldable design
Easy to set up and use
Included remote displays stats

Cons

Not compatible with third-party apps
Shakes a bit when you change speeds

WalkingPad’s P1 treadmill is super easy to set up and use, but the foldable design is one of its best attributes. When folded, its footprint is only 32.5 x 21.5 inches, making it easy to store under your desk or tuck away in another part of the room.

We also like that you can view your stats—including speed, steps, and distance—on the remote, rather than having to look down at a display on the treadmill. During testing, it felt comfortable and sturdy. However, we did notice that the belt jerked just a bit when we increased the speed, so you need to pay attention when changing your pace.

At 62 pounds, this treadmill is a bit heavier than some of the others we tested, but the foldable design and wheels on the bottom make it easy to move and put away. While it doesn’t have any advanced features, the treadmill is ideal for increasing your step count and reducing your sitting time throughout a workday. That being said, we wish it offered the ability to track metrics on third-party apps, rather than just its proprietary one.

Price at time of publication: $399

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 21.5 x 56.4 x 5 inches | Maximum Weight Capacity: 220 pounds | Speed Range: .5 to 3.75 MPH | Incline Range: None | Product Weight: 62 pounds | Remote Control: Yes | Wheels: Yes}

Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente
Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente
Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente

WalkingPad

View On Walkingpad.com

Pros

Fits easily under small spaces (beds, desks, etc.)
Super quiet
Easy on the knees

Cons

Machine is heavy
Limited speed range

When you have a smaller space, having a walking pad that can fold and fit under beds, dressers, or even desks is imperative for room efficiency. We tested the WalkingPad A1 Pro Foldable Under Desk Treadmill and it took the rank as the best walking pad for small spaces.

It uses a unique foldable design that bends over 180 degrees and is about 4.7 inches when closed so it can fit underneath furniture or in narrow spaces. Thanks to the wheels, pulling it out from under the couch was relatively easy, with the only difficulty being that it’s a bit on the heavier side. Because it is a little heavy, we do suggest storing it in the room you’ll be using it in so you don’t have to travel far tugging it along.

We found this walking pad very easy to set up. After unboxing, we downloaded the app, registered our information, and within five minutes were ready to go. This walking pad has Bluetooth capabilities that pair with the accompanying app. We struggled with automatically connecting, but luckily connecting the Bluetooth manually on the app was simple.

We were very comfortable walking on this walking pad at the max range of 1.75 mph. We felt it was a good casual pace that kept our bodies moving and our blood pumping. That being said, if you are looking for a walking pad that goes a little faster, this may not be the best option for you.

We also loved that the machine uses an algorithm to help pick a speed for you. At times we decided to manually pick our own speed which was a breeze with the remote that is paired with it.

Price at time of publication: $700

^{Key Specs:
Dimensions: 21.5 x 50 x 6.5 inches | Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Speed Range: 0.5 - 3.72MPH | Incline Range: Not listed | Product Weight: 61.73 lbs pounds | Remote Control: Yes | Wheels: Yes}

How We Rated the Best Under Desk Treadmills and Walking Pads

4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best under desk treadmills and walking pads we tested. We recommend them without reservation.

4.5 to 4.7 stars: These under desk treadmills and walking pads are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.

4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great under desk treadmills and walking pads, but others are better.

3.5 to 3.9 stars: These under desk treadmills and walking pads are just average.

3.4 and below: We don't recommend under desk treadmills and walking pads with this rating; you won't find any on our list.

We Also Tested

In total, we tested ten under desk treadmills, but only seven made it to our final list of recommendations.

While WalkingPad’s C1 Mini Foldable Walking Machine didn’t make the cut, we did find it easy to set up, comfortable to use, and quiet. We also loved that it’s compatible with the Apple Health app. However, we were disappointed that some of the materials seemed flimsy. After a few weeks of use, a plastic piece holding the plug in place broke off, making it impossible to plug in the treadmill. While our issue may be uncommon, it still made us question the product’s durability.
We also tested the WalkingPad X21 Double-Fold Treadmill 7.4 MPH. Like other walking pads, you set it up through an app, but the app was a little glitchy during our testing period which made use a little more difficult. We also found it to be a bit loud and not that sturdy. It’s fine for walking on, but the lack of security due to the tread in the middle of the belt didn’t encourage us to use it often, so we felt it was best to leave this walking pad off our round up.

How We Tested the Best Under Desk Treadmills and Walking Pads

We test a lot of products in The Verywell Testing Lab, but some require real-world testing so that we can evaluate them over a longer period of time and offer reliable recommendations to our readers. Under desk treadmills and walking pads are perfect for this method of testing, so we thoroughly tested ten popular treadmills from the comfort of our homes and offices. Over a four-week period, we completed at least four walks per treadmill each week.

When the treadmills first arrived, we assessed them for ease of setup: Did they come fully assembled? If not, how long did it take to get them ready to go before use? We also connected each machine to the treadmill’s app and any compatible health and fitness apps.

During each walk—which we did at different speeds—we performed work tasks such as typing on the computer or taking calls. We paid special attention to how comfortable and stable the treadmill felt and also assessed whether the sound was distracting or disruptive. Additionally, we used the remote control to start or stop, change the speed, and pause the treadmill.

If the treadmill folded up or had collapsible handrails, we folded them down, noting the difficulty in doing that. We also assessed the treadmill’s size and portability by moving it and storing it away when not in use.

Considering each component of testing, we rated each under desk treadmill on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for ease of setup, ease of use, foldability, features, comfort, and overall value.

As new and updated models of under desk treadmills and walking pads become available, we plan on continuing to test the latest, most buzz-worthy products, updating this list with new insights as they come in.

What to Look For in Under Desk Treadmills and Walking Pads

Footprint

You’ll definitely want to consider your space constraints when choosing an under desk treadmill since some options are more compact and portable than others. Check all the dimensions to make sure the treadmill will fit comfortably under your standing desk when in use and won’t be in the way when you’re not using it. To prevent missteps, look for a treadmill that’s wide and long enough to support your stride, keeping in mind that taller people with larger feet will need a wider and longer walking surface.

Speed Range and Incline

Before choosing a model, Kyra Thomas, ATC, LAT, a certified athletic trainer and injury prevention specialist at Fit for Work, says you should make sure you know how you want to use it—will you use it mostly for jogging, running, incline walking, or just for adding some movement to your workday? Most under desk treadmills and walking pads are suitable for walking and won’t reach the high-speed capacities that traditional treadmills do, with most topping out at about 4 or 5 MPH.

What’s more, most don’t have incline functionality and, if they do, it’s somewhat limited. For instance, the Egofit Walker Pro-M1 Under Desk Treadmill has a 5-percent incline, but it can’t be adjusted.

Noise

You’ll want an under desk treadmill that’s quiet enough so it won’t disturb or distract your colleagues. Personal trainer John Gardner, NASM-CPT, recommends choosing a treadmill that can be activated and adjusted without beeping, and that makes minimal friction sounds when you walk. Even if you work by yourself in a home office, you’ll still need to be aware of the noise if you plan to take calls on the treadmill. Check the product reviews to see if the treadmill lives up to the manufacturer’s “quiet motor” claims, Thomas says.

Storage

Whether you’re using an under desk treadmill at work or in your home office, you’ll want one that’s easy to store when you’re not using it. Some models, like WalkingPad’s P1 Foldable Treadmill, fold up small enough that they can be pushed under your desk and out of the way. Most have wheels on the bottom so you can move them across the room to tuck them away. Also, check the height measurement of the treadmill (when folded) if you plan to store it under furniture with low clearance, like a couch.

Stability and Max Weight Capacity

While under desk treadmills aren’t as heavy-duty as fitness treadmills, you’ll still want to make sure that you choose one that’s well-constructed and durable. For more stability, some models have handrails that fold down.

Additionally, under desk treadmills usually have lower weight capacities than fitness treadmills, with many maxing out at 220 pounds. Some models, like Treadly’s 2 Basic under desk treadmill, can accommodate users up to 265 pounds. Before investing in a treadmill, be sure to research the weight limit and consider who in your household will be using it.

Additional Features

Some under desk treadmills come with extra features like display screens that show your metrics, such as time, distance, and steps. Many models come with a remote control, which can be placed right on your desk and allow you to change the treadmill’s speed or pause it with the touch of a button. Some treadmills, like WalkingPad’s P1 Foldable Treadmill, have remotes with a screen, allowing you to track your stats without looking down at the treadmill’s display.

While most treadmills can be used with a proprietary app, others are compatible with third-party apps. You may pay a little more for features like this, but we think it’s worth the investment if it will motivate you to use your walking pad more consistently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an under desk walking treadmill worth it?

Whether or not an under desk treadmill is a good investment for you really depends on your needs and goals. If you’d like to be more active while working at a desk, a walking treadmill is a convenient way to get more steps in.
An under desk treadmill won’t have the same speed or incline functionality as a traditional treadmill, so walking while working won’t replace a heart-pumping sweat session at the gym. However, it can definitely help you blast some more calories, boost your daily step count, and maybe even help push through morning fatigue or afternoon slumps at work. “By gradually introducing more movement to your life, your mind and body will start to crave those happy chemicals sustainably,” Thomas says. “You'll start looking for more ways to be active outside of the 9-5 life.”
Is an under desk treadmill or bike better?

Under desk treadmills and bikes are both easy ways for those with sedentary lifestyles to add more activity to their day. The best one for you will depend on your preferences, space limitations, and budget. Some people who spend a lot of time at a desk opt for a treadmill because it gets them out of their chair. However, treadmill desks take up more space and typically cost more than under desk bikes. They also require more maintenance and care to keep working smoothly and comfortably.
Under desk bikes tend to be quieter than treadmills, but some users find it harder to concentrate on tasks while pedaling. However, some of the smaller models are inexpensive and very easy to move and store when not in use.
How long should you use an under desk treadmill for?

Walking is a healthy activity you can do every day, so it’s safe to use your walking treadmill daily. However, you should definitely consider your current fitness level before deciding how long you should walk on it, Thomas says.
If you’re not used to walking long distances, you should limit yourself to an hour or two at first. A good strategy for beginners is to start out with 20 minutes at the start of your workday, 20 minutes following lunch, and then another 15 minutes in the mid-afternoon, according to Thomas. Keep the speed at a pace that feels very easy, and work your way up to longer walks.
Can you use under desk treadmills on carpet?

Using a desk treadmill on a low pile carpet is fine, but you should avoid putting it on a plush carpet, as it may overheat. To prevent that and protect the carpet, you can put a treadmill mat underneath the machine. A treadmill mat will also help minimize the amount of carpet fibers, dirt, pet hair, and dust that gets into the machine. Even if you’re using the treadmill on hardwood floors, you may still want to use a treadmill mat to reduce noise and avoid damaging the floor.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, has more than 20 years of experience writing and editing health and fitness content and product recommendations. As a certified running coach, personal trainer, and avid runner, she has tested and reviewed her fair share of treadmills and knows what to look for to get the best bang for your buck.

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