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Working a desk job is a reliable way to get your bag—but not so much your steps. That is, unless you’re familiar with the best under desk treadmills, which allow you to take hot girl walks while you’re clearing your inbox or stuck in back-to-back Zoom calls. (Note: If you’re planning a fart walk, make sure you’re on mute.)
Under desk treadmills are more compact than most standard treadmills, so they can be a practical home workout option if you live in a small space. Another key difference: “Under desk treadmills are designed for walking—not running—and are [often] built in a way to work with a standing desk,” John Mercer, PhD, a kinesiology professor at University of Nevada Las Vegas, tells SELF. And while these machines aren’t your best bet for snagging a running PR, their simple design generally makes them more budget-friendly than standard treadmills as well.
But before you can try out an under desk treadmill to see how it feels, you’ll need to pick between the many options available. We rounded up the best options available right now, keeping price, size, noise, and other key features in mind, and even tested some top contenders for ourselves. Here’s a rundown of our favorites.
Our top picks
- Best Overall: GoYouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Electric Treadmill
- Best Folding: Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
- Best for Running and Walking: Urevo Strol 1 Pro Treadmill
- Best for Small Spaces: Egofit Walker Pro-M1
- Most Portable: WalkingPad C2 Mini Foldable Walking Treadmill
- Best Splurge Pick: Walking Pad R2 Walk&Run Foldable Treadmill
- Best Budget Pick: Goplus Walking Pad
- Best with Handlebars: Sunny Health & Fitness Pacer 2 in 1 Under Desk Smart Treadmill
- Best with a Remote Control: DeerRun Q1 Classic Pro
- Best for Incline: Urevo Cyberpad
What to look for in an under desk treadmill
Not all under desk treadmills offer the same experience. Here are some key points to keep in mind to help you find the right one for your space and needs.
Under desk treadmills are categorically compact (since, you know, they have to fit under a desk), but some are more so than others. Certain models can still be pretty big and heavy, Amanda Wagner, RDN, a registered dietitian and United Endurance Sports Coaching Academy (UESCA)–certified running coach based in Chicago, tells SELF. She personally uses the WalkingPad C2 Foldable Walking Treadmill because it’s reasonably small and lightweight enough for her to fold up and move it herself when she’s not using it.
Even if you plan to leave your under desk treadmill out all the time, measuring your space ahead of time is crucial to make sure it’ll fit.
Most walking pads on this list top out below four miles per hour, but some—like the Goplus 2-in-1, Urevo Strol 1 Pro, and WalkingPad R2—can reach or exceed seven miles per hour. Before you decide, think about whether you want to be able to take a brisker walk or jog on your under desk treadmill. But also don’t forget the primary function of these machines, which isn’t to replace a standard treadmill. “If you think you also want to run, you definitely want to get a [full size] treadmill, because you can also walk on that,” Wagner says.
All treadmills have motors, so no walking pad will be totally silent. To help you decide just how quiet yours should be, ask yourself a few questions about your space and the way you intend to use your tread:
- Do you share a home with multiple people who might hear a loud machine from the other room?
- Do you live in an apartment building with thin enough walls that your neighbors might hear the motor?
- Do you need your under desk treadmill to be quiet enough to use during Zoom meetings for work?
While most treadmills feature a chest-height console where you can access key controls, like the power button and speed, the typical walking pad is basically a standalone, railless mini conveyor belt. That’s why Wagner suggests people consider how a certain walking pad is controlled before purchasing.
“Does it have a remote?” she says. “Can you control it on your phone? Or do you have to press the controls directly on the walking pad?” If all of the buttons are directly on the machine, you may have to get on and off whenever you want to make an adjustment.
FAQs about under desk treadmills
What’s the difference between a walking pad and a treadmill?
Under desk treadmills typically have a lower top speed than traditional treadmills, Dr. Mercer says, so don’t expect to train for a marathon using a walking pad. Your walking form may also be different on an under desk treadmill compared to a traditional treadmill. For example, if you’re using a computer mouse while on your walking pad, you won’t be swinging your arms as you would naturally—and Dr. Mercer says this can be uncomfortable.
In addition to having lower max speeds than most standard treadmills, walking pads tend to have shorter belts and minimal (if any) incline capabilities, and they don’t always have handlebars. But before you chalk up under desk treadmills to being the ugly stepsister of the full-size shebang, know that they can help add movement into your day and allow you to multitask—particularly if you would otherwise spend your 9-to-5 parked in a desk chair.
Are walking pads good for exercise?
Yes—to an extent. Whether you opt for an under desk treadmill, a regular treadmill, or a sidewalk, a daily stroll can benefit your health. “There’s no denying the benefits of walking and daily movement,” Melissa Kendter, American Council on Exercise (ACE)-certified personal trainer and UESCA-certified running coach, tells SELF. Walking daily can support heart health, mental health, and help protect your joints, she says. “For someone who wants to incorporate walking throughout their day in an easy manner, they are a great option.”
Even so, your fitness routine will ideally include a variety of movements and intensities beyond what you’ll get from a walking pad session. As Kelly Bernadyn, CPT, a Michigan-based group fitness instructor at Life Time clubs previously told SELF, “if all we do is add this walking into our lifestyle, we do ourselves a disservice.” Some easy ways to get a tougher workout from your walking pad include upping the speed (to a level that feels safe for you), trying an interval workout, or doing knee marches.
How we picked the best under desk treadmills
We named the best under desk treadmills after poring over thousands of online reviews and asking fitness experts for their top shopping tips. SELF testers also tried several models out themselves (and we’re in the process of testing more). So whether your biggest priority is staying on budget, getting a machine that’s quiet enough to use during Zoom calls, or finding a compact option you can store in a small space, consider yourself set with our list of well-vetted options.
Shop the best under desk treadmills
Best Overall: GoYouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Electric Treadmill
GOYOUTH
2 in 1 Under Desk Electric Treadmill
Pros
- Front transport wheels make moving and storing it easy
- Higher weight capacity than other options
- Includes remote to control the tread
- Not too pricey
Cons
- Lower max speed
The GoYouth 2-in-1 has everything you need in a walking pad—and the under-$300 price tag doesn’t hurt, either. It has a remote control for easy speed switching and a Bluetooth speaker that lets you play music through your phone.
You can store it flat or upright—whichever makes most sense for your space—and the front-transport wheels make maneuvering it pretty simple, despite its sturdy-feeling frame (according to Amazon reviewers). Shoppers also say it’s quiet enough to use while taking work calls.
Dimensions: 50.59’’ x 22.44’’ x 5.51’’ | Belt size: 41.34’’ x 15.75’’ | Max weight capacity: 300 lbs | Speed range: 0-3.7 mph | Incline range: N/A | Product weight: 50.7 lbs
Best Folding: Goplus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
Goplus
2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
Pros
- High maximum speed
- Collapsible handrail provides support at higher speeds
- Comes with a remote control and safety key
- Less expensive than others on this list
Cons
- Some Amazon reviewers say it has a short power cord
- Belt is on the smaller side
With nearly 4,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, the Goplus is a flexible winner for many home offices. When the handrail is folded down, you can use it in a “walk mode” that maxes out at 2.5 mph. Raise it up, and you can access running mode and move as fast as 7.5 mph.
But before maxing out the speed, make sure the belt is long enough to accommodate your running stride. If you have a longer gait and still want to reach a brisker pace, check out the Urevo Strol 1 Pro, the WalkingPad R2, or the Sunny Health Pacer, all of which have larger belts.
Dimensions: 49’’ x 27’’ x 42’’ | Belt size: 40’’ x 16’’ | Max weight capacity: 265 lbs | Speed range: 1-7.5 mph | Incline range: N/A | Product weight: 69.5 lbs
Best for Running and Walking: Urevo Strol 1 Pro Treadmill
Urevo
Strol 1 Pro Treadmill
Pros
- Wide speed range allows for running
- Can incline
- Great shock absorption
- Comes pre-programmed with interval workouts
Cons
- One of the heavier options—moving it might be a two-person job
Not only can you walk, run, or jog on this under desk treadmill from Urevo, but you can also do it all at an incline. While you’re on the move, it’s easy to toggle between three incline levels using the remote control or handrail (when extended).
This walking pad is also designed with a five-layer running belt and eight built-in shock absorbers to lessen the impact you feel with each step. And while it’s a little pricey, Amazon shoppers say it’s a great investment: “I was worried it wouldn’t feel like a smooth walk, but I love zoning out and just listening to music. I forget I’m using a walking pad,” one wrote. “This has made everyday movement enjoyable.”
Dimensions: 53.5’’ x 28.4’’ x 5.9’’ | Belt size: 42.5’’ x 17’’ | Max weight capacity: 265 lbs | Speed range: 0-7.6 mph | Incline range: 5%-9% | Product weight: 73.9 lbs
Best for Small Spaces: Egofit Walker Pro-M1
Pros
- Smallest machine on the list
- The fixed incline may make walks feel more intense
- Can be controlled by a remote or an app on your smartphone
Cons
- Low weight capacity
- Short walking belt might be too small for some
Short on space, but still determined to log steps during your workday? The Egofit Walker Pro-M1 may be just what you need. It has the smallest footprint of any other option on this list, and it’s also pretty lightweight, so it’s easy to move and store.
Amazon reviewers also say its fixed incline sets it apart from other under desk treadmills, adding a challenge to slower walking sessions. As Bernadyn previously told SELF, walking on an incline is one of the best ways to amp up a leisurely stroll. “Incline work is going to help strengthen the backside of your body—your hamstrings, your glutes, your calves,” she said. “As long as you feel comfortable and you’re not searching for handrails, you’re probably in a good spot.”
Dimensions: 38.39’’ x 21.85’’ x 6.89’’ | Belt size: 34.25’’ x 16.54’’ | Max weight capacity: 220 lbs | Speed range: 0.62-3.11 mph | Incline range: Fixed incline of 5% | Product weight: 48.5 lbs
Most Portable: WalkingPad C2 Mini Foldable Walking Treadmill
WalkingPad
C2 Mini Foldable Walking Treadmill
Pros
- Folds in half and has transport wheels for storage
- Longer belt is a better fit for most walkers
- Can be controlled by a remote or an app on your smartphone
Cons
- Kind of heavy to move around
- Lower max weight capacity
The WalkingPad C2 bills itself as “mini,” but has a 47-inch-long belt that one SELF tester says should accommodate folks with a variety of heights and gaits. Although it’s pretty long when it’s unfurled, Wagner—who owns the C2—says what initially drew her to the machine was its compact size. “I like that I’m able to fold it up if I need to utilize the space for other tasks. It doesn’t take up a lot of space to begin with; it’s very thin,” she says.
Just keep in mind that, while it’s not the heaviest option of the bunch, it can be tough to maneuver when it’s folded in half. “It’s pretty heavy compared to other machines, which could be a problem for some folks, as it is more of a process to move around,” one SELF tester says.
Dimensions: 56.9’’ x 20.4’’ x 5.4’’ | Belt size: 47’’ x 15.7’’ | Max weight capacity: 220 lbs | Speed range: 0.5-3.7 mph | Incline range: N/A | Product weight: 55 lbs
Best Splurge Pick: WalkingPad R2 Walk&Run Foldable Treadmill
WalkingPad
R2 Walk&Run Foldable Treadmill
Pros
- Largest belt on this list
- Has a handle with a slot for a phone or tablet
- Folds in half and can be stored flat or vertically
Cons
- Most expensive option on this list
- Heavy, compared to other under desk treadmills
While it’s the priciest model on the list, the WalkingPad Folding Treadmill R2 is well worth the splurge. The belt is on the larger side for an under desk treadmill, which means it can accommodate folks with a longer stride. But since the deck folds completely in half, it’s also a breeze to store when you’re not using it.
Runners, rejoice: It reaches a high maximum speed of 7.5 mph and feels sturdy underfoot. “I’ve worked from home for over five years, and I wish I had gotten this sooner!” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “I use it throughout my work day, which helps me stay focused at work, and I feel better after I work because I’ve kept my body active. I also occasionally use the treadmill to run in the evenings,” they added. “I appreciate that I can use it at a fast pace when I want to.”
Dimensions: 57’’ x 28’’ x 40.5’’ | Belt size: 47’’ x 17’’ | Max weight capacity: 240 lbs | Speed range: 0.5-7.5 mph | Incline range: N/A | Product weight: 79.4 lbs
Best Budget Pick: Goplus Walking Pad
Pros
- Lightest option on this list
- Operates quietly and smoothly, according to Amazon reviewers
- Space-saving design
Cons
- Belt might not be long enough for taller folks
As the most lightweight and budget-friendly tread on the list, the Goplus is a great bet for anyone who’s walking-pad-curious (read: People who just aren’t sure how much they’ll actually use the machine and don’t want to invest a ton of dough quite yet).
According to users, it’s a breeze to move, quiet to use, and easy to adjust. “This is exactly what I was looking for!” one Amazon shopper wrote. “It’s small and heavy, but it has wheels on the bottom to transport it around. It’s excellent for staying active at home while working or getting stuff done without having a big chunky treadmill taking up so much space.”
Dimensions: 47’’ x 21’’ x 5’’ | Belt size: 40’’ x 16’’ | Max weight capacity: 265 lbs | Speed range: 0.5-4 mph | Incline range: N/A | Product weight: 41 lbs
Best with Handlebars: Sunny Health & Fitness Pacer 2 in 1 Under Desk Smart Treadmill
Sunny Health & Fitness
Pacer 2 in 1 Auto Incline Under Desk Walking/Running Smart Treadmill
Pros
- Includes six incline levels
- Front wheels help with moving and storage
- Amazon shoppers say it’s easy to assemble
Cons
- Larger and heavier than some other options on this list
If a handlebar is on your list of must-haves, we recommend this Sunny Health & Fitness treadmill. It has a wide speed range compared to many other models and six preset incline options that you can switch between using the remote, Bluetooth-connected app, or handlebar console (when extended).
As the heftiest option on the list, it’s fairly heavy duty. While Amazon reviewers say it feels sturdy, moving it around may not be so easy—despite its handy front transport wheels.
Dimensions: 58.2’’ x 26.4’’ x 47.4’’ | Belt size: 45.7’’ x 16’’ | Max weight capacity: 265 lbs | Speed range: 0.5-6 mph | Incline range: 0-6% | Product weight: 79.4 lbs
Best with a Remote Control: DeerRun Q1 Classic Pro
Pros
- Not as pricey
- Higher weight capacity, compared to others on this list
Cons
- Belt might be too short for taller people
With a remote control to control your speed, starting and stopping a walking session on the DeerRun Q1 Classic Pro is easy. The machine also integrates with the free PitPat app, which allows you to adjust your workout, track your statistics, sync with Apple Health, and join workout classes right from your living room or office.
Another bonus: The Q1 Classic Pro comes with a 60-day trial and a 1-year warranty—so if you don’t love it, no sweat.
Dimensions: 49’’ x 20’’ x 4.5’’ | Belt size: 39.4’’ x 15.4’’ | Max weight capacity: 300 lbs | Speed range: 0.6-3.8 mph | Incline range: N/A | Product weight: 43 lbs
Best for Incline: Urevo Cyberpad
Pros
- Has an impressive incline range
- Designed to absorb shock
Cons
- Pricier and heavier, compared to most other picks on this list
For a walking pad that can keep up with an HIIT treadmill workout, look no further than the Urevo Cyberpad. Fashion meets function, so to speak, with this machine—it has multicolor lights lining the belt and a huge 14% incline range.
According to Amazon shoppers, it’s also quiet, easy to move, and adjusts smoothly. “The auto incline is great for varied workouts, and the shock absorbent system keeps me comfortable during long sessions,” one wrote. “It’s a great addition to my home office and perfect for staying active while working.”
Dimensions: 47.6’’ x 23.6’’ x 8.7’’ | Belt size: 43.3’’ x 16.5’’ | Max weight capacity: Not listed | Speed range: 0-4 mph | Incline range: 0-14% | Product weight: 70.6 lbs
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