The 6 Best Under-Desk Treadmills of 2023

Working hours putting a damper on your fitness progress? While there are ways to add some active minutes to your daily schedule through full-blown office workouts and in-chair exercises, another great way to help you make the most of your time is with an under-desk treadmill. These slim, convenient cardio machines can allow you to sprinkle in some training while also tending to emails, virtual meetings, assignments, and more.

Because your goal is to multitask while using an under-desk treadmill, the design and performance of your machine is going to differ from your other, more training-focused treadmills out there. Let’s face it, as much as we’d like to sprint through our work days, sprinting while working can be even more of a challenge. So, to help you stay active and productive when clocked in, we’ve gone through the paces to determine the best under-desk treadmills on the market today.

The 6 Best Under-Desk Treadmills of 2023

• Best Under-Desk Treadmill Overall: Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill
• Best Budget Under-Desk Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness Slim Under Desk Walking Running Treadpad
• Best Under-Desk Treadmill with Incline: UREVO Foldable Treadmill with Auto Incline
• Best Folding Under-Desk Treadmill: WalkingPad C2 Mini Foldable Treadmill
• Best Compact Under-Desk Treadmill: Egofit Walker Pro Under Desk Treadmill
• Best Under-Desk Treadmill for Running: WalkingPad R1 Pro Treadmill

How We Tested

The team at BarBend is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, dedicated fitness enthusiasts, and more. That said, we still have day jobs that take us out of our beloved training environments now and again, so we understand how difficult it can be at times to balance work duties with your fitness aspirations. In researching products for this round-up and getting hands-on experience with 10 under-desk treadmills, we took note of how easy it would be to add these machines to our professional setups. 

We looked at the space these machines needed for proper use, as well as how noisy the motors would be during operation. (Essentially, would they be noticeable when trying to manage a Zoom call?) Under-desk treadmills are also a training tool, after all, so we looked to ensure that the chosen products could actually facilitate a workout through worthwhile speeds, inclines, and weight capacities.

Best Under-Desk Treadmill Overall: Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill

Specs

• Price: $299.99
• Motor: 2.25 HP
• Max Speed: 7.5mph
• Weight Capacity: 265lbs
• Belt Dimensions: 16” W x 39.3” L
• Product Dimensions: 55” L x 29” W x 5” H

Pros

• Five-inch height can fit easily under a couch or bed frame when not in use.
• Can reach a max speed of seven and a half miles per hour when in running mode, which can be good for light jogging paces.
• Comes equipped with a remote control for quick and simple speed adjustments.

Cons

• Included running handrails are non-adjustable, so the three and a half-foot height may be less ideal for taller athletes.
• The belt can become bogged down if placed under a heavy load.
• Cannot be placed on carpeted surfaces, as the motor may overheat.

The Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill is our favorite under-desk treadmill thanks to its versatile makeup and lightweight build. You’re able to choose between walking or running modes, which expand your training possibilities within the work day. The slim five-inch frame height is also compact enough to store easily under any nearby furniture. Our tester also noted the included wheels at the front of the machine, which enhance this under-desk treadmill’s portability.

Additionally, the Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill boasts a quiet 2.25 HP motor, making it usable when answering calls or attending virtual meetings. We did notice, though, that it can be tough for the motor to get the belt rolling when starting atop the machine. For this reason, we recommend powering up this under-desk treadmill first then hopping onto the belt once it’s reached a walking speed.

There’s also an included remote control that allows for quick speed adjustments during workouts. We found the toggles to be easy and simple to use, especially when slowing things down to bring our heightened attention back to daily tasks. The Goplus 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill also features a built-in speaker with Bluetooth connectivity, so you can play your favorite training playlist while you log your active steps — in-between work tasks, of course.

The dimensions of this under-desk treadmill should be accommodating for most office set-ups, but be sure to place this impressive machine on a hard surface or running mat. According to the brand, it’s best to forgo placement on a carpeted floor, as this can potentially lead to the motor overheating during use.

Best Budget Under-Desk Treadmill: Sunny Health & Fitness Slim Under Desk Walking Running Treadpad

Specs

• Price: $369.99
• Motor: 1.5 HP
• Max Speed: 3.75mph
• Weight Capacity: 220lbs
• Belt Dimensions: 14” W x 39” L
• Product Dimensions: 50” L x 21.5” W x 6.5” H

Pros

• Regularly on sale, so you have multiple chances throughout the year to capitalize on a great deal.
• Automatically shuts off after five seconds if you step off the machine.
• Multiple customer reviews praise this under-desk treadmill’s near-silent operating volume.

Cons

• Slim walking deck could be too narrow for athletes with wider walking forms.
• Max speed is too slow for running-oriented training.
• Included emergency stop clip may be too short for some, limiting its effectiveness.

We get that listing a more expensive under-desk treadmill as our favorite budget pick may not sound correct at immediate glance, but this Sunny Health & Fitness Slim Under Desk Walking Running Treadpad is routinely on sale at wallet-friendly price tags, so take our word when we praise its impressive affordability. Outside of the approachable costs, this under-desk treadmill has a lot going for it in the performance department, too. Our tester noted how sound and efficient the motor was during training, even during extended operation through multiple hours of meetings, emails, and other work-related assignments.

Plus, multiple customer reviews note how quiet this under-desk treadmill is when powered up. “The treadmill makes a quiet whirring sound and my feet make a sort of soft slapping sound as I walk. Certainly neighbors in adjoining apartments could not hear someone walking on it,” notes one happy customer.

We also appreciate the built-in safety features of this Sunny Health & Fitness Slim Under Desk Walking Running Treadpad. There’s an automatic shut-off feature that pauses the running belt if no user is detected after five seconds. This can be great for athletes working alongside pets and young children — no need to shut down your entire machine as you run out for a quick coffee refill. Plus, there’s an included emergency stop clip that will immediately shut down the treadmill if you lose your balance. We did notice, though, that the cord length is not long enough for taller athletes, so we weren’t always able to clip in to take advantage of this extra precaution.

The Sunny Health & Fitness Slim Under Desk Walking Running Treadpad can reach speeds just under four miles per hour, so don’t expect to bust out a light jog atop this device. If you’re looking to get a brisk walk in throughout your work day, though, and want the best bang for your buck, this is definitely a profile worth considering.

Best Under-Desk Treadmill with Incline: UREVO Foldable Treadmill with Auto Incline

Specs

• Price: $439
• Motor: 2.5 HP
• Max Speed: 4mph
• Weight Capacity: 265lbs
• Belt Dimensions: 16.9” W x 42.5” L
• Product Dimensions: 51.6” L x 22.1” W x 6.5” H

Pros

• Can reach inclines of up to nine percent with just the simple touch of the included remote.
• Larger weight capacity can be suitable for more athletes of varying sizes.
• You can connect your under-desk treadmill to the Urevo app for multiple preset and customizable workout targets and programs.

Cons

• Heavier 71-pound profile can be cumbersome to move for some athletes.
• Four-mile-per-hour max speed does not lend itself to running workouts.
• Multiple customer reviews note that the instruction manual can be difficult to follow.

If you’re looking to give your mid-day workouts a unique twist, consider opting for an under-desk treadmill that allows for incline adjustments. This UREVO Foldable Treadmill can reach pitches of up to nine percent, which can be enough to give your walks a fresh, new challenge. We also appreciate how simple it is to toggle these settings thanks to the included remote. Other under-desk treadmills offering incline adjustments typically adjust manually with an allen key or other mechanism, which can take up more time before getting into a session.

This UREVO Foldable Treadmill is also worthwhile thanks to its burly, durable makeup. It boasts a max user weight of 265 pounds, which is one of the highest ratings we found in testing. That brawn comes at a price though, as this heavier profile can be difficult to maneuver around for some.

It’s also worth noting that the included instruction manual can be difficult to follow, according to some customer reviews. This has led to issues getting the machine to start up properly after unboxing. From our research, though, it appears that the main issue lies with the “Safety Key.” This component must be placed in its designated slot for the under-desk treadmill to power on. We’ve included this note here to help alleviate any headaches that otherwise would be left unresolved when trying to reference the manual. 

Best Folding Under-Desk Treadmill: WalkingPad C2 Mini Foldable Treadmill

Specs

• Price: $599
• Motor: N/A
• Max Speed: 3.72mph
• Weight Capacity: 220lbs
• Belt Dimensions: 15.75” W x 47.24” L
• Product Dimensions: 56.88” L x 20.39” W x 4.92” H

Pros

• Running deck folds in half for more convenient storage opportunities.
• Comes in five available colorways, giving you a unique opportunity to match your fitness equipment to your tastes and personality.
• EVA cushioned running deck can create a soft landing for each active step.

Cons

• Max speed is not conducive to training beyond a brisk walking pace.
• There’s an indent at the folding joint, which can be distracting for some.
• Some customers have noted durability issues with the belt.

Want an under-desk treadmill that’s easy to store when not in use? This C2 Mini Foldable Treadmill from WalkingPad can fold up to nearly half its size, perfect for tucking away under furniture or off in a corner during non-working hours. Granted, some may find this joint to be a distraction during operation, but being able to pack up your workout equipment as if it were a lawn chair is a nice convenience not shared by most profiles in the space. We also appreciate how lightweight this profile is at just 55 pounds, which makes it easier to set in place and move around the office when necessary.

The WalkingPad C2 Mini Foldable Treadmill can be a great option for enthusiastic walkers, as it’s capable of reaching speeds just under four miles per hour. Granted, this is too slow to facilitate light jogs or other running endeavors, but for keeping the pace amidst company meetings, spreadsheets, and other work responsibilities, it’s definitely up to the task. The EVA cushioned running deck is also noteworthy, capable of creating a comfortable stepping experience as you power through your day.

Additionally, this under-desk treadmill is unique in that it’s available in multiple colorways. Normally, you don’t have the option to color code your fitness equipment to your office aesthetic, so it’s nice to have the opportunity to bring a little vibrancy into your work environment.

Best Compact Under-Desk Treadmill: Egofit Walker Pro Under Desk Treadmill

Specs

• Price: $399
• Motor: 2 HP
• Max Speed: 3.1mph
• Weight Capacity: 220lbs
• Belt Dimensions: 16.54” W x 34.25” L
• Product Dimensions: 38.39” L x 21.85” W x 6.89” H

Pros

• Entire treadmill takes up less than six square feet of space.
• Features a fixed five percent incline for a more challenging, worthwhile walking experience. 
• No assembly required, so you can immediately get into training while you work once the treadmill arrives.

Cons

• Shorter running deck may not accommodate longer strides.
• Two-horsepower motor can be bogged down if used extensively.
• Incline cannot be adjusted for less intense walking scenarios.

If you’re in need of an under-desk treadmill that doesn’t suffocate your floor plan, consider the Egofit Walker Pro Under Desk Treadmill that requires less than six square feet of space. Plus, the fixed five percent incline can be great for facilitating more intense training throughout the day — although we do wish this setting was adjustable for sessions where taking it slow is top priority.

We also enjoyed how simple it was to set this under-desk treadmill up for a given workout. The entire unit comes pre-assembled, so all that was needed was an open outlet to get this profile up and running (okay, walking). The included remote also makes toggling the speed settings a breeze, but you can utilize a complimentary app through your phone if you’d prefer.

Despite the compact perks, though, we do not recommend this under-desk treadmill for every athlete out there. The shorter dimensions mean there’s less available space across the walking belt, so taller athletes or those with longer strides may feel constricted in their movements atop this profile. Additionally, our tester noted that the motor seems underpowered in comparison to other treadmills in the category, which led to some bogging down during extended workout sessions. If you need a treadmill that can withstand hours of use without compromise, it may be best to look elsewhere.

Best Under-Desk Treadmill for Running: WalkingPad R1 Pro Treadmill

Specs

• Price: $899
• Motor: N/A
• Max Speed: 6.2mph
• Weight Capacity: 220lbs
• Belt Dimensions: 17.3” W x 47.2” L
• Product Dimensions: 57.48” L x 28.3” W x 35.43” H

Pros

• Features a handrail that can house a smartphone or tablet for data monitoring during exercise.
• Foldable design helps save space in storage. 
• Longer running deck can support your jogging strides better than smaller, more walking-focused silhouettes.

Cons

• Some may find the folding joint at the middle of the running deck to be a distraction during training.
• Max speed can support light jogging, but is still underpowered for high-intensity runs.
• This is the most expensive under-desk treadmill in this round-up.

Some under-desk treadmills feature high enough speeds and durable builds to support light or moderate jogging. If you’d like to mix up your work day exercise with the occasional jog, we recommend this impressive profile from WalkingPad. The R1 Pro can reach speeds just over six miles per hour, which can be enough to facilitate light jogs. It’s not enough to support your sprint circuits, but should you really be hitting that intense of a tempo in the throes of a work day?

Additionally, the R1 Pro can be an excellent pick for those wanting convenient storage. Like the C2 Mini Foldable Treadmill mentioned above, this under-desk treadmill also features a hinge along its deck, which can shrink its overall footprint when not in use. This profile can even be stored vertically, which adds even more storage possibilities to the design.

We also enjoy this under-desk treadmill for running thanks to the included handrail. When raised, this component can house a smartphone, tablet, or other small device for the sake of keeping tabs on your training metrics like distance, calories, steps, and more. There’s also a readout at the base of the deck, but admittedly, it can be a little tough to see at times, especially when placed under a desk.

Now, to achieve these running capabilities with an under-desk treadmill, you need to pay a little extra. The R1 Pro is the most expensive profile in this roundup, but we feel that cost is justified given the build quality, quiet motor, and convenient folding capabilities.

How We Chose the Best Under-Desk Treadmills

In determining the best under-desk treadmills, we looked at common factors like price, available speeds, and weight capacity, but we also had to remember that these machines are just as much a work accessory as they are a training tool. Below you’ll find in-depth information on how each component influenced our decisions when curating this guide.

Price

Under-desk treadmills are traditionally less expensive than your normal-sized treadmills, with many top-performing profiles coming in between $300 and $1,000. This can be attributed to their smaller stature and lack of features that cater more toward high-intensity training. That said, though, a few hundred dollars is still a good chunk of change to drop on a machine, so we did our best to outline when a pick showcased the most value, as well as when a treadmill’s performance justified its price tag.

We also looked at under-desk treadmills offering some form of financing to better offset the initial cost. These picks can be great for athletes working with a tight budget, so we’ve included that information accordingly.

Size and Storage

When thinking of an under-desk treadmill’s size, there are a few things to consider. For one, you need to ensure the machine can fit comfortably within your working space while still allowing you access to your desk for multitasking. Additionally, you need to account for your stride length when walking or jogging. A treadmill may fit neatly under your desk, but can you complete a step or foot strike without stepping off the machine?

To cater to both measurements, we looked at multiple under-desk treadmill profiles and took note of both the overall dimensions as well as the running deck itself. Thinner treadmills can be great for stashing under a bed or nearby couch, whereas larger, more robust profiles may need to become permanent fixtures in your office. We also made note of under-desk treadmills featuring a foldable design, which can also lend itself to more convenient storage.

Speed

Under-desk treadmills are typically not as powerful as other treadmills on the market, which makes sense when you account for the typical speed you’re likely to operate at while using the machine. You don’t need a burly motor churning out limitless horsepower if you never get above a brisk walking pace. Still, though, you want to ensure that your equipment is capable of keeping pace with your activity, which is why we took a gander at each treadmill’s motor output and max speed.

For walking purposes, we looked for profiles capable of reaching between two and a half and four miles per hour — what the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans defines as a “brisk walk.” (3) If an under-desk treadmill could also support light or moderate jogging paces, that target speed increased to six miles per hour and above.

Noise

A noisy treadmill can be annoying in any circumstance, but that humming can be especially problematic when trying to pair your workout to online meetings and phone calls. Most under-desk treadmills market themselves as quiet, but few actually list the measured decibel output on their product pages. So, we relied on customer feedback and firsthand testing notes when examining this key component.

We also looked at the build quality of each profile, as this can also influence your treadmill’s audio output. Silhouettes featuring a large amount of plastic components can creak and crack more so than others. This can turn every step into a noisy endeavor, and may be enough to drown out your responses when it’s your turn to speak up in those weekly discussions.

Weight Capacity

You’re going to be standing, walking, and potentially running atop your under-desk treadmill day in and day out, so it helps to go with a profile that can comfortably house your bodyweight without issues. Most under-desk treadmills, including those chosen for this round-up, carry a max weight capacity of at least 220 pounds. Some may be able to support heavier loads — we tested a few silhouettes capable of holding up to 265 pounds — but this can lead to bulkier designs that take up more floor space overall.

Extra Features

Under-desk treadmills don’t need to offer the same bells and whistles as other profiles because they’re used more as an accessory than an all-out training machine. Think about it, what’s the point of having a large display console on such a tool if it’s sitting directly under your desk most of the time? That said, there are some conveniences we looked for when curating this guide, such as separate remotes or Bluetooth connectivity for on the fly speed and incline changes, safety cords that shut down the machine if you accidentally lose your balance mid-stride, and foldable designs for easier storage.

The Benefits of Under-Desk Treadmills

While we acknowledge that under-desk treadmills aren’t as powerful or feature-rich as other silhouettes on the market, there are still a handful of benefits that can be had by using them in your daily schedule. Below are some of the key perks that can come from walking while you work.

Increased Activity Levels

Studies indicate that up to 71 percent of a typical work day can have you in a sedentary position, meaning you’re sitting or leaning with an energy expenditure of 1.5 metabolic equivalent task (MET) or less. (1)(2) Essentially, you’re not moving for prolonged periods of time, which can potentially lead to health consequences, including an increased risk for disease and mortality.

Thankfully, combatting this ominous forecast doesn’t require a herculean effort. Just increasing your physical activity by a few minutes each day can be enough to right the ship. Under-desk treadmills can be great for getting your body active while still keeping your focus on your daily tasks and work requirements.

Time Management

Finding time in your schedule for a worthwhile workout isn’t always the easiest task. You have a job, a social life, and other responsibilities that can oftentimes take importance over your daily trip to the gym. Rather than leaving your training habits off your to-do list altogether, under-desk treadmills allow you to pull double time while accomplishing other tasks during working hours. This opportunity for physical activity can help you stay on target with your fitness goals without hindering your performance in other areas of your day to day.

Now, we still recommend prioritizing your training regimen whenever possible. Taking the time to focus on your workouts and exercising at higher intensities should always be the goal for improved health and wellness. But for those days where there’s little time to get to the gym or sneak away for a session, under-desk treadmills can be a worthwhile solution.

How to Use an Under-Desk Treadmill

To effectively use an under-desk treadmill, first you’ll need a standing desk that’s tall enough for your frame. You should be able to type and work comfortably while walking on your treadmill, so be sure to find a desk that accommodates these measurements. Some standing desks can also feature adjustable heights, so you can drop down your working space to a seated level when not trying to up your daily step count.

Once you’ve gotten your working space in order, go ahead and slide your under-desk treadmill into position. Power up and slowly hone into your desired speed and incline, if applicable. This can be done with either the included remote or through your phone via a Bluetooth connection.

Once you’ve walked for your desired length, feel free to move your under-desk treadmill as you please.

How to Choose the Best Under-Desk Treadmill

When looking for an ideal under-desk treadmill, there are a few factors worth considering. Below you’ll find our recommended points worth emphasizing to help ensure your decision creates a quality workout experience that also facilitates your work day productivity.

Price

Under-desk treadmills are typically less expensive than other treadmill silhouettes given their size and lessened emphasis on high-intensity training. You can find suitable profiles ranging from $300 to $1,000. Cheaper models typically showcase an abundance of plastic components, which can influence the noise and durability of the treadmill itself. More expensive profiles may boast better build qualities, but that can compromise their portability and storage, too. Be sure to strike a balance whenever possible that fits your needs and budget best.

If you’re really looking for a budget-friendly option, be sure to look for under-desk treadmills offering some form of financing. This can help you spread the cost of the machine over several months.

Size and Storage

Your under-desk treadmill should be able to, well, fit under your desk. So, be sure to go with a profile that is wide enough to fit comfortably within your working space. Most under-desk treadmills come in between 20 and 30 inches wide, so having three feet should be enough to house most machines.

It’s also important to have enough space behind your workstation to accommodate for the overall length and running deck. Be sure to have around five feet of room behind your desk to allow for a comfortable stride, and try to match your deck to your normal gait length. Under-desk treadmills can often showcase belts between three and four feet in length, so make sure you opt for a long enough running surface to accommodate your natural steps.

Finally, if you want to store your under-desk treadmill when not in use, ensure the device’s height can fit underneath a nearby bed or couch. Most under-desk treadmills feature heights around six and a half inches, which can be great for keeping them out of sight when not on the clock. Some options also feature a foldable design, which can allow for even more convenient storage opportunities.

Power and Speed

Given their compact stature, it’s common to see under-desk treadmills with smaller, less powerful motors than their high-intensity brethren. Most under-desk treadmills will feature a motor churning out between one and three horsepower, which can be enough to support a brisk walking pace during use.

As far as speeds go, you’re likely to keep your paces on the conservative side when operating your under-desk treadmill because you’re trying to multitask with actions like typing, answering calls, and other work-related duties. Because of this, you’ll want to look for treadmills that can operate at speeds of at least two and a half to four miles per hour. 

If you’d like to utilize your under-desk treadmill for running scenarios in-between conference calls, you can opt for more powerful machines that can reach speeds of six miles per hour and higher. If you want to train at a faster tempo than this, it may be best to opt for a standard treadmill. These rigs often showcase max speeds of 12 miles per hour, along with other training-focused features more suited to higher intensities.

Noise

Your under-desk treadmill shouldn’t distract you from your work, so it’s best to opt for a profile that’s nearly silent while in use. Most under-desk treadmills market themselves as quiet in operation, but few list the actual decibel statistics on their page. So, be sure to check out the customer reviews, if available, to see if your machine is as quiet as it claims.

You can also look at the build quality of your treadmill when trying to address potential noise issues. Profiles containing a lot of plastic, for example, can have a tendency to creak and crack more than silhouettes featuring more durable materials. This may be great for keeping your under-desk treadmill light and portable, but can also create audio feedback every time you take a step.

Weight Capacity

You want to ensure your under-desk treadmill can support you during use without breaking down, so be sure to look at the listed max user weight before adding a profile to your cart. Most under-desk treadmills can withstand a load of at least 220 pounds, but beefier options are out there.

If you’re in need of a sturdier under-desk treadmill, be sure to look for a weight capacity that can withstand your bodyweight. Be aware, though, that you may need to sacrifice some conveniences like easy storage and portability in the process.

Final Word

Adding an under-desk treadmill to your office set-up can be great for making the most of your time at work, especially if you routinely struggle to find time for your training. Getting those extra steps throughout the day can help you maintain your healthy status more so than sitting at a desk chair for hours upon end, and the convenient features like slim builds and quiet motors help ensure your work productivity stays on par, as well.

If you’re thinking of adding one of these time-saving cardio machines to your set-up, be sure to look for a profile that caters to both your training and professional needs. You’ll want an under-desk treadmill that can support brisk walking paces, as well as a profile that actually fits, well, underneath your desk without much issue. You can even opt for a pick with incline adjustments and run-supporting build qualities, if you fancy a heightened exercise challenge in-between emails and online meetings. In the end, though, it’s important to remember that you’re aiming to make the most of your time when focused training is out of the question. Find the right machine for your needs, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving those fitness goals as efficiently as possible.

FAQs

References

1. Clemes, S. A., O’Connell, S. E., & Edwardson, C. L. (2014). Office Workers’ objectively measured sedentary behavior and physical activity during and outside working hours. Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, 56(3), 298–303.
2. Park, J. H., Moon, J. H., Kim, H. J., Kong, M. H., & Oh, Y. H. (2020). Sedentary lifestyle: Overview of updated evidence of potential health risks. Korean Journal of Family Medicine, 41(6), 365–373.
3. Physical activity guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition – health.gov. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2021). https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Physical_Activity_Guidelines_2nd_edition.pdf?ref=simplegreensteps.com

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