It seems multitasking has become the new norm these days, and many of us are transforming our homes into multi-use spaces, functioning as our house, office, gym, and even school in some cases. If you’re looking for an easy way to add a little exercise to your workday (without messing up your schedule or taking a long break to hit the gym), a walking treadmill is the perfect solution.
Adding a slim treadmill to your desk set-up is an easy way to boost your daily step count without taking time away from work or your family, especially if you own a standing desk. We’ve compiled a list of the best under-desk treadmills that are perfect for walking and talking during meetings, helping you stay in shape without leaving your desk.
By clicking on the product links in this article, Mattress Advisor may receive a commission fee at no cost to you, the reader.
Best Under-Desk Treadmill – Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Under-Desk Treadmill – GoPlus SuperFit Treadmill
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill Treadmill Under $500 – Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation
- Best Lightweight Under-Desk Treadmill – Goyouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill For Small Spaces – WalkingPad R2 Treadmill
- Best Folding Under-Desk Treadmill – REDLIRO Under Desk Treadmill
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill for Heavy People – Lifespan Fitness TR1200-DT3
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill for Running – Rhythm Fun Treadmill
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill with Incline – Egofit Walker
- Best Affordable Under-Desk Treadmill – Sperax Walking Pad
We may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website. Our Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services.
Best Overall Under-Desk Treadmill – GoPlus SuperFit Treadmill
Pros and Cons of the GoPlus Superfit Treadmill
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Maximum speed of 8 mph is considerably more than others | Cord is short and may need an extension |
| Option to use for running or walking | Requires remote to work |
| Includes remote for stop/start/speed change | |
| Pros | Cons |
- Product Weight: 84 lbs
- Dimensions: 27″D x 49″W x 42″H
- Maximum User Weight: 265 lbs
- Maximum Speed: 8 mph
If you’re looking for an under-desk treadmill that’s both effective and affordable, the GoPlus SuperFit Treadmill is our top pick. Small and compact, the folding treadmill can reach speeds of up to 8 miles per hour, allowing users to use it for walks or runs. A 2.25 horsepower motor keeps the treadmill quiet during use, which makes it ideal for use during the workday from the home office if you own a standing desk.
The under-desk electric treadmill features Bluetooth speakers, a phone holding stand (when the handrails are upright), and comes with a remote control for hands-free operation. An LED display shows your metrics, including speed, distance, time, and calories burned during your workout. When the handrail is lowered, the treadmill’s safety features only allow it to reach walking speeds and won’t go faster than 2.5 miles per hour, which should be a comfortable pace for walking while you work.
Best Under-Desk Treadmill Under $500 – Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation
Pros and Cons of the Sunny Healthy & Fitness Walkstation
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight (55 lbs) and easy to move | Maximum speed is 3.75 mph |
| Comes fully assembled | 1.5 horsepower engine is lower than other options |
| Includes wireless remote control | |
| Pros | Cons |
- Product Weight: 55.1 lbs
- Dimensions: 50″D x 21.5″W x 6.5″H
- Maximum User Weight: 220 lbs
- Maximum Speed: 3.75 mph
While some of the best treadmill desks offer an easy way to add a treadmill to your workspace, they’re often thousands of dollars and not feasible. A better budget solution is to try out the Sunny Health and Fitness Walkstation, which costs less than $400 on Amazon, arrives fully assembled and includes a three-year manufacturer warranty. This corded electric treadmill has a weight capacity of 220 pounds and boasts a shock-absorbing running deck to prevent joint soreness.
The Walkstation has a speed range of 0.5-3.75 mph, the latter of which is a brisk walking pace that should be perfect for walking while you work, or getting in some low-intensity cardio during your day. If the treadmill doesn’t detect a user on the running belt, it will automatically pause as a safety measure. The treadmill also features a power-saving automatic shut-off after 10 minutes of inactivity.
Best Lightweight Under-Desk Treadmill – Goyouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill
Pros and Cons of the GoYouth 20in-1 Under Desk Treadmill
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quiet motor | Requires remote to change speeds |
| Includes 12 pre-set programs | Needs regular lubrication |
| Pros | Cons |
- Product Weight: 50.7 lbs
- Dimensions: 49″D x 21.6″W x 5.9″H
- Maximum User Weight: 220 lbs
- Maximum Speed: 6 mph
If you’re looking for a treadmill that’s lightweight and easy to maneuver around the house, the GoYouth Under-Desk Treadmill is an excellent choice. Available for less than $400 at the time of publication, this treadmill weighs just a hair over 50 pounds, so one person should be able to easily wheel it around.
A 2.25 horsepower motor keeps the treadmill pretty quiet during use, which is ideal for anyone looking to use it during the workday without the noise disrupting your housemates or coworkers. This treadmill can reach speeds up to six miles per hour, which makes it suitable for jogging workouts as well as walking. An included remote control allows users to adjust the belt speed hands-free.
Best Under-Desk Treadmill for Small Spaces – WalkingPad R2 Treadmill
Pros and Cons of the WalkingPad R2 Treadmill
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Three options to control speed | Lower horsepower motor – noise level is higher than competitors |
| Has a tablet and phone holder | Reviewers say workout app is difficult to use |
| Foldable for super easy storage | |
| Pros | Cons |
- Product Weight: 79 lbs
- Dimensions: 57.17″D x 28.43″W x 51.18″H
- Maximum User Weight: 242 lbs
- Maximum Speed: 6.2 mph
Getting a treadmill suitable for a small space might seem like an oxymoron, but the WalkingPad R2 Treadmill is foldable, and we don’t just mean the arms fold down. This under-desk treadmill actually folds in half for super convenient storage and a significantly reduced footprint, which makes it ideal for smaller spaces such as apartments, small home offices, or rooms that don’t have a ton of extra space.
While this treadmill can reach up to 6.2 miles per hour, it does only have a 1.2 horsepower motor that might run slightly louder than other treadmills with higher horsepower motors, though reviewers report it’s not so loud so as to be distracting and is still great for use during the workday. An LCD display shows your time, distance, and speed. Unlike other under-desk treadmills that rely on a remote-only control system, the WalkingPad R2 offers users the ability to change speeds via manual buttons, a wireless remote, and through their app.
Best Folding Under-Desk Treadmill Under $500 – Redliro Under-Desk Treadmill
Pros and Cons of the Redliro Under-Desk Treadmill
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Suitable for running and walking | Heavier users might find it unstable for running on |
| Inexpensive dual-use treadmill | Some users report issues with the remote |
| No assembly required | |
| Pros | Cons |
- Product Weight: 57 lbs
- Dimensions: 52″D x 25″W x 42″H
- Maximum User Weight: 220 lbs
- Maximum Speed: 7.5 mph
While most treadmills designed for running can cost quite a bit, the Redliro Under-Desk Treadmill is a budget-friendly option that can reach running speeds while still folding into a compact size that’s ideal for everyday use. Priced at less than $400 at the time of publication, this treadmill boasts a 2.25 horsepower motor (indicative of quiet function, making it great to use during work or for exercise without disturbing or distracting others), an assembly-free construction, 12 preset programs, and a top speed of 7.5 miles per hour.
A safety key is included for running on this treadmill to ensure the belt stops if you get off. An LED display shows steps, time, speed, distance, and calories burned, plus comes with a phone or tablet holder (when the handrails are upright). The treadmill weighs about 55 pounds for easy maneuverability around the house.
Best Under-Desk Treadmill for Heavier People – LifeSpan Under Desk Walking Treadmill
Pros and Cons of the LIfeSpan Under Desk Walking Treadmill
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can support more weight than competitors | Expensive |
| Comes with 10-year warranty on frame | Heavier than other models |
| Belt is self-lubricating for easy maintenance | |
| Pros | Cons |
- Product Weight: 132 lbs
- Dimensions: 63″L x 28.5″W x 7.25″H
- Maximum User Weight: 350 lbs
- Maximum Speed: 4 mph
A treadmill that’s built to last is a great idea for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with lubricating the belt or tightening up bolts, plus the sturdier frame allows heavier users to walk on it without worrying about the impact or functionality of the treadmill. The LifeSpan TR1200-dt3 Under-Desk Walking Treadmill is a luxury treadmill that comes with a 10-year warranty on the frame, can support users up to 350 pounds, and can withstand up to 6 hours of continuous daily use.
With a 2 horsepower motor, compression shocks to absorb impact, and a durable two-ply belt that self-lubricates for reduced maintenance, this is a great treadmill for those who want to spend a bit more money and for added durability and the ability to withstand regular use from heavier individuals. The belt automatically stops when users step off as an added safety feature, plus the LCD screen keeps track of steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned, and speed.
Best Under-Desk Treadmill for Running – Rhythm Fun Folding Treadmill
Pros and Cons of the Rhythm Fun Folding Treadmill
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 4 horsepower motor keeps this super quiet | Expensive compared to other models |
| Handrail and display area is large enough to place laptop on it | Not especially easy to move around |
| Can reach max speed of 9.3 mph | |
| Pros | Cons |
- Product Weight: 132 lbs
- Dimensions: 64″D x 33″W x 7″H
- Maximum User Weight: 265 lbs
- Maximum Speed: 9.3 mph
If you want the option to run on your treadmill (as well as use it to walk during the workday), the Rhythm Fun Treadmill offers the best of both worlds. The high horsepower motor (4 horsepower) ensures the treadmill is quiet during use, and the stand area is large enough to place a laptop on it to attend virtual meetings and work from the treadmill.
The treadmill offers a remote control as well as manual controls for speed adjustment, and folds down into a small shape for compact storage when not in use. Unlike other walking treadmills, this one can reach speeds over 9 miles per hour (which should be plenty for nearly all runners) while still remaining stable thanks to the durable steel frame.
Best Under-Desk Treadmill with Incline – EgoFit Walker
Pros and Cons of the EgoFit Walker
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fixed 5% incline | Might be too short for taller individuals (recommended for users under 6′ 2″) |
| Very small and compact design | Some users report that it can be a little loud |
| Comes fully assembled | |
| Pros | Cons |
- Product Weight: 48.5 lbs
- Dimensions: 38.39″D x 21.85″W x 6.89″H
- Maximum User Weight: 242 lbs
- Maximum Speed: 3.1 mph
Incline walking is a great low-impact exercise that gets your heart pumping without putting a ton of stress on your joints. The EgoFit Walker is a small but powerful walking treadmill that’s designed with a five percent incline, gentle enough that you won’t feel like you’re on a strenuous hike but with enough grade to feel your leg muscles burning.
The small running deck poses some advantages and disadvantages: It’s compact and lightweight, allowing you to easily store it or move it out of the way when you’re not using it, but the shorter deck does mean that users taller than 6 foot 2 inches might find it difficult to use. While the EgoFit Walker can only reach speeds of slightly over 3 miles per hour, many users report this is more than enough given the fixed incline.
Best Affordable Under-Desk Treadmill – Sperax Walking Pad
Pros and Cons of the Sperax Walking Pad
| Pros | Cons |
| Weight limit of 320 pounds | Some users report their stride is slightly too long for the belt length |
| Wheeled for easy portability | Some reviewers struggled to lubricate the belt |
| Remote operated |
- Product Weight: 40 lbs
- Dimensions: 48″D x 19.6″W x 4.6″H
- Maximum User Weight: 320 lbs
- Maximum Speed: 4 mph
The Sperax Walking Pad is one of the best desk treadmill options for anyone who wants the benefits of a desk walking pad without needing to break the bank. Not only is it quiet enough to use during the work day, but it also boasts a 320-pound weight capacity, making it ideal for larger individuals who want an easy way to add movement into their day.
This under-desk treadmill is remote-controlled with an LED display to show distance, speed, and calorie expenditure. It arrives fully assembled but the belt does require lubrication (the lubricant is included) before use. At under $300, it’s one of the best desk treadmill deals for the money.
What is an Under-Desk Treadmill?
An under-desk treadmill is a slim treadmill designed to be used at a standing desk. These treadmills usually have a lower maximum speed than traditional treadmills, around 4 miles per hour compared to the standard 12. They are generally fairly portable, with designs that include either foldability or transport wheels for easy storage when not in use. These treadmills are not ideal for running or other strenuous activities, but are designed to help people get in more exercise while they stand at their desks.
How to Choose an Under-Desk Treadmill
Finding the perfect under-desk treadmill for your home or office is mainly a matter of figuring out what works best for you. If you want a treadmill that allows for running and walking, you’ll want to check that the maximum speed allows for jogging. If storage is your main concern, choosing a folding treadmill or one with a super thin design that can easily slide under a couch or bed is a good bet for ensuring it works for your smaller space. If ensuring the treadmill can support your weight, double-check the weight capacity when browsing through under-desk treadmills.
Weight and Size
If you want to be able to move your treadmill around your home, finding one that’s lightweight and portable is essential. Most of the walking treadmills on the market today have transport wheels on one end for simplified transportation, though some weigh considerably more than others, which is worth taking into account while shopping, especially if you live alone and won’t have any help moving it around.
Maximum Speed
When looking into under-desk treadmills, maximum speed is something you’ll want to consider based on your typical walking speed, how you intend to use the treadmill, and what makes sense for your needs. If you are fairly sedentary and don’t often walk, an under-desk treadmill with a maximum speed of around 3.5 miles per hour is probably plenty for what you’ll want and use it for. Conversely, if you regularly walk and do so quickly, you may want a treadmill that can reach speeds closer to 4 miles per hour. If you plan on using the treadmill for running or jogging as well as walking, you’ll need one that has a maximum speed of at least 6 miles per hour. Most walking treadmill companies (and reviewers) recommend a speed of around 2.5 miles per hour or less while you work at your desk to ensure you don’t lose your balance and remain safe.
Maximum User Weight
Many walking or under-desk treadmills have a maximum user weight of around 250 pounds, which might not be enough for some users. Some of the models on this list (such as the LifeSpan TR1200) have a higher maximum weight capacity than others. If you are nervous about your weight being too much for a certain brand of treadmill, we suggest investing in one of the sturdier models that are built to support larger individuals. A treadmill may not offer enough shock absorption and could cause joint pain if you exceed the recommended weight limit.
Space
The size of your home office (or home gym) should play an important role in which under-desk treadmill model you opt for. If a more compact treadmill makes sense for your space, or you need one that offers more space-saving options (such as getting a more portable treadmill that you could store when not in use). If you need one that requires easy storage, we recommend finding one that’s thinner and could be slid underneath a couch or bed while not in use.
Portability/Foldability
A foldable treadmill is a great idea if you want to use the treadmill both for walking and for running, as the treadmills that have higher maximum speeds usually have upright arms for added safety.
Additional Features
If you’re looking for a few more bells and whistles in your treadmill, look through the details and the description of the device before purchasing. Some offer incline capabilities, while others offer folding handrails for added stability. Some of the treadmills include Bluetooth connectivity for wireless music while you run, or preset programs that automatically change the speed for you as you follow along. All of the treadmills include a LED screen for tracking your speed, distance, calories burned, and steps taken (though the general consensus is that the step count feature is not very accurate on walking treadmills).
How We Chose the Best Under-Desk Treadmills
When looking into the best under-desk treadmills, there were a multitude of factors that we considered, including those mentioned above. In addition to the maximum speed, maximum user weight, portability, size of the treadmill, and additional features, we also took into consideration the cost of the treadmill, whether or not it would be too loud to use in a workplace, and how easy the treadmill was to assemble.
We also looked at the customer reviews of each treadmill on this list, ensuring the treadmill had received high ratings and that any major issues people had weren’t recurring problems with the treadmill that would allude to a lower-quality product.
FAQ About the Best Under-Desk Treadmills
Are under-desk treadmills worth it?
If you’re looking for a way to increase your step count without taking additional time out of your day, an under-desk treadmill is a great investment! These treadmills offer an easy way to add in exercise to your daily routine without needing to step outside or visit a gym. If you have a standing desk and work from home, an under-desk treadmill is great for walking while you work.
What’s the fastest you can walk on a treadmill desk?
Most of these treadmills recommend a maximum walking speed of 3.5 miles per hour while using a treadmill at your desk. More than that can be a safety hazard or can be difficult to maintain while still working.
Can a treadmill desk help you lose weight?
Yes! Adding a few miles of walking to your normal routine is an easy way to lose some weight without changing your routine or schedule too much. Many people that use these treadmills claim that they feel more energized and have lost weight thanks to the added movement in their day.
Is walking in place the same as walking?
Walking on a treadmill and walking outside aren’t quite the same, but they’re fairly similar as far as exercise goes. For the most part, it’s easier to walk (and walk more quickly) on a treadmill than it is to walk outside. For those with mobility issues or who struggle with stability, a treadmill can offer an easy way to get back into the habit of walking without facing the uneven ground you’ll find outside.
Summary of Our Top Picks for the Best Under-Desk Treadmill
- Best Overall Under-Desk Treadmill – GoPlus 2-in-1 Folding Treadmill
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill Treadmill Under $500 – Sunny Health & Fitness Walkstation
- Best Lightweight Under-Desk Treadmill – Goyouth 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill For Small Spaces – WalkingPad R2 Treadmill
- Best Folding Under-Desk Treadmill – REDLIRO Under-Desk Treadmill
- Best Luxury Under-Desk Treadmill – Lifespan Fitness TR1200-DT3
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill for Heavy Person – Lifespan Fitness TR5000
- Best Under-Desk Treadmill with Incline – Egofit Walker