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Work and Walk: The 6 Best Under-Desk Treadmills to Buy in 2023

 Written by 

Julien Raby

 Last updated on 

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Working from home certainly has its perks like spending more time with the family and less on commute. But let’s face it: we’re all guilty of sitting at our desks for hours on end, barely moving a muscle. Well, what if we told you that you can now work and walk at the same time?

Say hello to the latest fitness trend – under-desk treadmills! These nifty gadgets are perfect for those who want to get their daily steps in without sacrificing their productivity. But with so many options on the market, which one should you choose? Fear not, we’ve got you covered.

A woman using the best under-desk treadmill at home
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We’ve scoured the internet for the most popular under-desk treadmills that’ll make you want to kiss your desk chair goodbye. From sleek designs to powerful motors, we’ve tested them all. Whether you’re a seasoned fitness enthusiast or a complete newbie, these treadmills are perfect for anyone who wants to improve their health and well-being.

So, why not take your work-from-home routine to the next level with the best under desk treadmill for you? Not only will you feel more energized and focused, but you’ll also be taking care of your body. Trust us, your future self will thank you. So, without further ado, we give you the six best under-desk treadmills for any budget!

In A Hurry? Here’s Our Best Picks

KingSmith WalkingPad R1 Pro Foldable Treadmill 2 in 1 Walking Pad Under...
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No products found.
Exerpeutic 5000 ExerWork 20' Wide Belt Desk Treadmill with Adjustable...
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Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation Slim Flat Treadmill for Under Desk and...
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Goplus 2 in 1 Folding, Superfit Under Desk Electric Treadmill, 2.25HP...
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UREVO Under Desk Treadmill, Walking Pad Treadmill for Home/Office, 2.25HP 2...
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Product's nameOur Top Pick
KingSmith WalkingPad R1 Pro Foldable Treadmill 2 in 1...
Best Treadmill with an Incline
No products found.
Best Treadmill with Built-in Desk
Exerpeutic 5000 ExerWork 20" Wide Belt Desk Treadmill with...
Best Value for Money
Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation Slim Flat Treadmill for...
Best for Walking and Running
Goplus 2 in 1 Folding, Superfit Under Desk Electric...
Best for Speed
UREVO Under Desk Treadmill, Walking Pad Treadmill for...
Final ThoughtThe WalkingPad R1 Pro received the Red Dot Design Award and the IF Design Award in 2019 and the Good Design Award in 2020.We loved that the Egofit Pro came fully assembled. This means you can just remove the treadmill from the packaging, plug it in and start walking.The best feature if you ask us? A cupholder and a side shelf for a surge protector come with the roomy desk for conveniently powering your devices.The Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation Slim Treadmill is one of the most affordable options we came across. It stands out as an amazing deal at less than $300.If you're looking for an under-desk treadmill that has both walking and running modes, this is it.With speeds set at 3.8 miles per hour, you can enjoy low-impact aerobic exercise at your desk.
Machine Size59” x 28.35” x 35.4” (unfolded) / 38.5” x 28.35” x 6.1” (folded)38.39” x 21.85” x 6.89”69” x 46” x 59”50” x 21.5” x 6.5”27” x 49” x 42”26.4” x 26.4” x 5.1”
Belt Size40” x 24”34.25” x 16.54”20” x 46”39” x 14”40” x 16”40” x 17”
Screen Size83.7 pounds48.5 pounds192 pounds55.1 pounds69.5 pounds67 pounds
Motor Power243 pounds220 pounds325 pounds220 pounds265 pounds265 pounds
Maximum Speed0.5– 6.5 mph0.6 – 3.1 mph0.6 – 4.0 mph0.5 - 3.75 mph0.6 - 7.5 mph0.5 - 7.6 mph
Price$$$$$$$$$$
Learn moreSee at AmazonNo products found.See at AmazonSee at AmazonSee at AmazonSee at Amazon

How Are We Qualified to Write About These Products?

At BoxLife, we take fitness seriously. Our team of experts includes certified personal trainers, fitness enthusiasts, and health professionals who are dedicated to helping people achieve their fitness goals and spend less time sitting and more time moving.

We’re passionate about trying out different types of machines and workout equipment, including under-desk treadmills, to find the best products that will help our readers get in shape. To ensure our reviews are thorough and accurate, we use a rigorous testing process. Our team spends hours researching each product, examining its features, and reading customer reviews.

We then purchase the products and test them in real-world scenarios, taking note of the performance, durability, and overall user experience. We also consult with our network of fitness experts to get their feedback on the products we’re testing.

Our commitment to providing unbiased and helpful reviews has earned us the trust of our readers. We believe that fitness should be accessible to everyone, and our goal is to help people find the best products that will help them achieve their fitness goals.

Who Is This Guide For?

This guide is for anyone who works from home and wants to stay active and healthy. Balancing work and fitness is hard, but the best under desk treadmill can help you stay active and productive at the same time.

Perhaps you’re someone who has made a commitment to improve their health and well-being. You may have tried various fitness programs, but nothing seems to stick. An under-desk treadmill could be just the thing you need to make exercise a part of your daily routine. With its compact size and easy-to-use design, you can work out without leaving your home or interrupting your workday.

Under-desk treadmills are an exciting and new approach to fitness that can make exercising feel less like a chore and more like a fun activity. And with the convenience of being able to work out while you work, you won’t have to worry about finding time to hit the gym or go for a run.

A serious man walking on the best under-desk treadmill at home
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How We Picked the Best Products?

If you’ve been reading our reviews, you know that our selection process is thorough and meticulous. We began by searching Amazon for the highest-rated and most popular under-desk treadmills.

From there, we narrowed down the list based on the factors we considered to be most important, including:

  • Price: We wanted to ensure we included options for a variety of budgets.
  • Brand reputation: We chose products from trusted brands known for their quality and reliability.
  • User reviews: We read countless customer reviews to gain insight into each product’s real-world performance.
  • Features: We focused on treadmills that offered a balance of useful features and ease of use.
  • Noise level: We prioritized models with quiet operation, so they wouldn’t disrupt your work or bother your colleagues.

How We Compared Each Product

Once we had our shortlist of the top contenders, we tested all the selected under-desk treadmill models personally. Our team took several characteristics into consideration while evaluating each product:

  • Ease of assembly: We assessed how simple it was to set up each treadmill and start using it.
  • Stability: We checked if the treadmills were stable and comfortable to walk on, ensuring they could handle various walking speeds.
  • User interface: We examined each product’s control panel and remote for ease of use, readability, and functionality.
  • Noise level: We measured the noise output of each treadmill during operation to confirm it was quiet enough for an office or home environment.
  • Performance: We tested each treadmill for consistent performance over time, including tracking speed, distance, and calorie data.
  • Customer support: We evaluated the level of customer support provided by each brand in case of issues or inquiries.

The 6 Best Under-Desk Treadmills

WalkingPad R1 Pro Folding Under Desk Treadmill – Our Top Pick

We loved the WalkingPad R1 Pro’s design which can be easily incorporated into any office setting. You can easily assemble this piece of exercise equipment and move it around with ease.

This walking treadmill has a distinctive design that lets you keep it upright or in small areas like under your desk, couch, or bed. Moving this treadmill around is much easier than with normal upright treadmills, which may take up a lot of room and can weigh over 250 pounds due to their bulky arm rails, displays, and other attachments.

Controlling the speed is also straightforward. R1 offers three control options while in walking mode. You can change the speed in “M” mode using the remote control; in “A” mode (just for walking), the speed can adjust depending on your step’s position. In addition, there’s the KS Fit App which is great for mode selection and use.

Its speed range is also great for an under-desk treadmill. It can go from 0.5 to 6.5 miles per hour for running. It isn’t the fastest machine we tested, but it felt the sturdiest when at high speeds and has a quiet motor. This is due to the fact that it’s made entirely of a single-piece aluminum alloy that is light yet robust.

This under-desk treadmill also has a deck covered in EVA soft layer which absorbs shocks and reduces the strain on the knees. The high-density fibreboard also makes for a more secure walking and running experience. So, if you like to use high speeds for a prolonged time, this is the machine for you.

The WalkingPad R1 Pro received the Red Dot Design Award and the IF Design Award in 2019 and the Good Design Award in 2020. We had the honor of testing this award-winning under-desk walking treadmill and we can say that all its accolades are well-deserved.

Pros

  • Stable even at maximum speed
  • Foldable treadmill you can store in an upright position
  • Ergonomic design that reduces pressure on the knees
  • Using it isn’t very complicated

Cons

  • Costs more than standard treadmills

Key Specs:

Total dimensions59” x 28.35” x 35.4” (unfolded) / 38.5” x 28.35” x 6.1” (folded)
Walking pad dimensions40” x 24”
Product Weight83.7 pounds
Maximum weight capacity243 pounds
Speed0.5– 6.5 mph

Who Is It For?

Professionals who work 9-5 and are serious about their fitness and willing to invest more in an office treadmill.

Egofit Walker Pro – Best Under-desk Treadmill with an Incline

The newest under-desk treadmill that Egofit released on the market is the compact and lightweight Walker Pro. What makes it stand out from the other treadmills on our list is that it has a set incline of 5%. This helps you burn more calories than you would if you were walking on a flat surface.

You can operate the treadmill using the remote control, or you can couple it with your smartphone via Bluetooth to start and stop the belt, modify the speed, and record your exercise data. There’s an integrated LCD display that shows your speed, distance, time, calories burned, and step count.

Although it might create a little noise, it won’t have a significant impact on your productivity. This fitness machine produces noise of around 70 dB when you’re using it at maximum speed, which is not too loud for a phone or Zoom call.

We loved that the Egofit Pro came fully assembled. This means you can just remove the treadmill from the packaging, plug it in and start walking. The treadmill is easy to transport because of its lightweight and compact design at 48.5 pounds. It also has under-desk built-in wheels in the front to make moving it even easier.

The Egofit Pro also has a compact footprint, making it able to fit in a tight workspace. And if your car has a big trunk, you could even take it on a trip.

Pros

  • Compact treadmill
  • Portable and lightweight
  • Comes pre-assembled
  • Makes for a more intense workout thanks to the 5% incline

Cons

  • Doesn’t have a large weight capacity
  • The fixed incline can put off some people
  • The walking surface may feel too short for some
  • The motor isn’t very strong

Key Specs

Total dimensions38.39” x 21.85” x 6.89”
Walking pad dimensions34.25” x 16.54”
Product Weight48.5 pounds
Maximum weight capacity220 pounds
Speed0.6 – 3.1 mph

Who Is It for?

People who like to take their walks to the next level and want a portable treadmill they can easily transport anywhere.

Exerpeutic 5000 ExerWork – Best Treadmill With Built-in Desk

The Exerpeutic 5000 ExerWork under-desk treadmill is a multipurpose product. It offers you a standing desk and a conventional treadmill in a single neat package. If you don’t already have a standing desk, this smart treadmill will save you from having to get one.

We loved the easy-to-read backlit LCD display that allows you to check a bunch of statistics like time, distance, calories burned, and current speed. The display also gives you the option to select one of five pre-set workout programs and three workout goal settings, which adds some dynamic training options to an otherwise monotonous routine.

You can elevate the built-in desk as much as you need – it’s designed to accommodate people that are between five feet and six feet, five inches tall. The desk also offers enough space for the regular workstation basics – a keyboard, monitor, mouse, and phone.

Those of you who hate cluttered workspaces will love the fact that the treadmill desk allows you to organize the numerous cords onto a pair of power strip shelves. And for the workaholics who are typing a lot, there are full-length ergonomic wrist rests to improve comfort. 

You can also disassemble the unit and use the desk and the walking treadmill separately. The treadmill comes with front wheels so you can easily move it to any area of your home or office.

The best feature if you ask us? A cupholder and a side shelf for a surge protector come with the roomy desk for conveniently powering your devices.

Pros

  • A built-in treadmill desk that offers adjustable heights
  • Desk-organization features
  • A decent load capacity
  • Good value for money considering you’re paying for two items

Cons

  • Some may find it too heavy to move
  • It doesn’t offer any sitting option

Key Specs

Total dimensions69” x 46” x 59”
Walking pad dimensions20” x 46”
Product Weight192 pounds
Maximum weight capacity325 pounds
Speed0.6 – 4.0 mph

Who’s It For?

People who want to have a standing desk and a treadmill in a single unit.

Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation Slim Treadmill – Best Features for the Cost

The Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation Slim Treadmill is one of the most affordable options we came across. It stands out as an amazing deal at less than $300.

It also has a small footprint and a lightweight, portable design. After your workday is done, you can simply tuck it away behind a sofa or practically any place. It also features a set of wheels that make moving it around a breeze.

Despite its small footprint, the treadmill features a sizable digital monitor at the front. This way, you can keep track of your time, speed, calories burnt, steps, and distance. It also features a remote control allowing you to adjust your walking speed from 0.5-3.75 mph. There are also built-in shock absorbers that lessen the strain on your joints while also reducing noise.

While testing, we were surprised to discover the Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation Slim has a power-saving mode. The treadmill immediately stops when it detects that you have stepped off. This feature also makes it safe for use around small children and pets.

Pros

  • Super compact and able to fit in tight spaces
  • Weighs only 55 pounds
  • Offers a lot for less money

Cons

  • The motor is loud and can disturb the people around you

Pros:

  • Super compact and able to fit in tight spaces
  • Weighs only 55 pounds
  • Offers a lot for less money

Cons:

  • The motor is loud and can disturb the people around you

Key Specs

Total dimensions50” x 21.5” x 6.5”
Walking pad dimensions39” x 14”
Product Weight55.1 pounds
Maximum weight capacity220 pounds
Speed0.5 – 3.75 mph

Who Is It for?

If you don’t want to spend a lot of money but still want a good machine, this one’s for you.

Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill – Best Walking and Running Option

If you’re looking for an under-desk treadmill that has both walking and running modes, this is it. For its handrail technology, the Goplus 2-in-1 Super Fit Under-Desk Treadmill won the gold medal from us. When you want to sweat it out, you just need to raise the handrail to put the treadmill into running mode and take advantage of the maximum speed of 7.5 miles per hour.

But even if it didn’t feature running speeds, we’d still like the machine just for how simple it is. It doesn’t have a flashy touchscreen, just a remote control. There are only three buttons on the Goplus’ remote – increase speed, decrease speed, and power.

The Goplus’s display has a simple design just like the remote control. The only technological features it has are a few sparse measurements that cycle through on the LED display. Another great selling point of the Goplus is its foldable handlebar. You can also easily tuck the machine under the bed when you’re done working and walking.

The treadmill has a powerful but quiet motor that won’t disturb work hours and a multi-layered non-slip running surface to provide joint comfort and safety. 

The features we loved the most? The built-in Bluetooth speaker, phone holder, and smartphone app.

Pros

  • Simple to operate
  • Straightforward remote control and display
  • Foldable
  • Bluetooth speaker, phone holder, and smartphone app

Cons

  • You can turn it on only by its remote
  • The motor can lag if you start the machine while you’re already on it

Key Specs

Total dimensions27” x 49” x 42”
Walking pad dimensions40” x 16”
Product Weight69.5 pounds
Maximum weight capacity265 pounds
Speed0.6 – 7.5 mph

Who Is It for?

If you like to use your treadmill for running and dislike complicated tech features, this one is just the right pick for you.

Urevo 2-in1- Under Desk Treadmill – Best for Speed

We received the Urevo 2-in-1 treadmill completely assembled and ready to use. Like the Goplus, it too has a retractable handrail that converts it from a walking surface to a machine that is safe for running.

But when speed is concerned, we were more impressed by the UREVO than the Goplus. The 2.5 CHP motor has a powerful punch that most smaller under-desk treadmills lack. With speeds set at 3.8 miles per hour, you can enjoy low-impact aerobic exercise at your desk. And if you want to intensify your training, you can raise the handrail and run at up to 7.6 miles per hour max speed.

We also liked that the Urevo includes a non-slip belt, even though we strongly advise wearing running sneakers when using any under-desk treadmill. The non-slip belt reduces the feeling that you might fall off, which is common with traditional treadmills.

For those who like to stay comfortable, the belt is made of five layers of rubber and Silica Gel, which prevents you from feeling as though you are trudging down a trail that is covered in rocks.

Pros

  • Comes assembled and ready to use
  • A significantly higher maximum speed over other traditional treadmills
  • A non-slip belt for a secure feeling

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Noisy

Key Specs

Total dimensions26.4” x 26.4” x 5.1”
Walking pad dimensions40” x 17”
Product Weight67 pounds
Maximum weight capacity265 pounds
Speed0.5 – 7.6 mph

Who Is It for?

Everyone who wants a good cardio break from their regular work routine.

Under Desk Treadmill Buying Guide

With the increasing need to incorporate fitness into our daily lives, under-desk treadmills have gained immense popularity as an effective way to stay active while working. These machines allow users to maintain a comfortable walking pace while working on their computers, making phone calls, or attending virtual meetings.

If you’re looking to purchase an under-desk treadmill, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision by covering the essential factors to consider.

Assess Your Needs and Space Constraints

Before you begin your search, it’s important to evaluate your needs and the space available in your home or office. Consider the following factors:

  • Room dimensions: Ensure that there’s enough space for both the treadmill and your workstation setup.
  • Noise level: You may require a quiet treadmill if you work in a shared or noise-sensitive environment.
  • Weight capacity: Choose a treadmill with a weight capacity that accommodates your body weight.
A serious woman walking on the best under-desk treadmill
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Key Features to Look for

When comparing under-desk fitness treadmills, focus on the following features:

Motor Power

A treadmill’s motor power is measured in continuous horsepower (CHP). A higher CHP indicates a more powerful and durable motor. For under desk treadmills, a motor power of 1.5 to 2.5 CHP is generally sufficient.

Speed Range

Under-desk fitness treadmills typically have a speed range of 0.5 to 4 mph, which is suitable for most users. However, if you’re an experienced walker or looking to challenge yourself, consider a treadmill with a higher speed range.

Deck Size

Deck size refers to the walking surface of the treadmill. Look for a deck size that provides ample space for comfortable walking, typically between 18-22 inches in width and 45-50 inches in length.

LED Screen

An easy-to-read and accessible screen is crucial for tracking your workout progress. A good screen should display workout metrics such as time, speed, distance, and calories burned.

Safety Features

Emergency stop buttons and safety key systems are important to ensure a safe workout experience.

Portability and Storage

Look for a compact treadmill with transport wheels and foldable designs if you need to move or store the equipment frequently.

A woman working at home stretching on the best under-desk treadmill
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Set a Budget

These fitness treadmills are available at various price points, so it’s essential to set a budget before you start shopping. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality treadmill is often worth the extra cost in terms of durability, performance, and features.

Consider Your Workstation Setup

Ensure that your workstation is compatible with the under-desk treadmill. You may need to invest in a height-adjustable desk or a treadmill-compatible desk attachment to maintain an ergonomic working posture.

Warranty and Customer Support

A good warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Look for a treadmill with a minimum warranty of one year for the motor and parts, and consider the availability of customer support for assistance with assembly, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

A man working at home using the best under-desk treadmill
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FAQs:

Is an under desk treadmill a good idea?

A desk treadmill is a great way to promote weight loss. It offers the perfect calorie-burning and metabolism-boosting activity in as little as 30 minutes per day. Without affecting your productivity, switching to brisk walking during sedentary work hours can produce fantastic outcomes.

Can I run on an under the desk treadmill?

As you can see from our review, under desk treadmills aren’t just for walking. There are many quality 2-in-1 models with an impressive horsepower allowing you to reach speeds up to 7.6 miles per hour. With this type of fitness equipment, you can do your cardio workout directly from your work desk.

How long should you walk on a treadmill desk?

The sweet spot for most people is one to two hours per day, followed by a return to a sitting or standing position. However, most treadmill desk users we interviewed walked for 2-3 hours per day, 4-5 days per week.

About

Julien Raby is the owner of BoxLife. He owns a bachelor in literature and a certificate in marketing from Concordia. He's Crossfit Level 1 certified and has been involved in Crossfit since 2010. In 2023 he finally made it to Crossfit Open Quarterfinals for the first time. LinkedIn Instagram Facebook

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