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We mastered walking and typing at the same time to put these popular walking pads and under-desk treadmills to the test. Bath Rugs
Getting on top of your work to-do list while cranking up your step count is possible, thanks to walking pads. Remember, walking for just 30 minutes a day can decrease stress, strengthen joints, reduce the risk of heart issues, and so much more.
Not only are under-desk treadmills often much cheaper than their full-size counterparts, but they’re compact enough to be stored — you guessed it — under a desk. To help you sidestep the flimsy options or those without enough padding to protect your joints, we spent several weeks testing the most popular low-profile treads on the market, judging them on set-up, ease of use, storage, features, and value. These are the best walking pads for stepping up your steps at home.
Why We Like It: The tread had an incline capability of up to 5%, which is unusual for compact treadmills.
It’s Worth Noting: The display is hard to read — we had to squint to see the small font.
The Egofit Walker was the best walking pad we tested, thanks to its 5 percent incline, remote control, and quiet functionality. We could set it up right out of the box by simply plugging it in, and we appreciated that they included batteries for the remote (which came with a strap attached so we could wear it while walking). At less than 7” high, it was easy to store this under-desk treadmill while we weren't using it, and we didn’t struggle to move it. The tread was super quiet (we even used it during Zoom meetings without anyone being the wiser), and the 5% incline was a major perk, as not many compact treadmills have incline capabilities. The console display on this walking pad was helpful, showing stats like calories, time, steps, distance, and speed, though the screen was too small for us to read the data easily while on the tread.
Max Speed: 5 mph | Max Incline: 5% | Weight Capacity: 220 lb
"I'm currently training for a half-marathon, and I wanted a walking pad as an active recovery option. I also had family members test this under-desk treadmill, including my father, who's recovering from hip surgery, and my mother, who exercises to keep her diabetes in check."
Why We Like It: You can choose from 12 walking programs geared toward different goals.
It’s Worth Noting: The shock absorption columns add a slight incline that can’t be adjusted.
For an affordable treadmill (think under $400) that's also a space saver, the GoPlus Under Desk Treadmill was the best walking pad we tested. Like the Egofit Walker, the GoPlus was a cinch to set up in seconds, and the crisp LED display has the added benefit of being a touchscreen if you prefer to adjust there. This tread includes 12 walking programs designed to meet different goals (such as improving cardio fitness or building endurance), adding variety without any manual adjustments. The remote has clever “quick jump” buttons to switch speeds with just one touch. We also appreciated that the running belt on this walking pad was a little wider than the Egofit, which made us feel more comfortable when donning our walking shoes for a quick stroll.
Max Speed: 4 mph | Max Incline: None | Weight Capacity: 220 lb
"I work remote and wanted a convenient way to stay active during the workday while multitasking on Zooms. I work out several days a week and enjoy both walking and running."
Why We Like It: Its sleek design is infused with technology.
It’s Worth Noting: It weighs 100 pounds and is difficult to move.
If you’re searching for a walking pad that will stand the test of time, the WalkingPad X21 Double-Fold Treadmill is one you should invest in. Its price tag is justified considering how it functions as both an under-desk treadmill and a compact running tread for small spaces. Plus, it tops out at a speed of 7.4 mph—higher than most walking pads we tested. Spec-wise, the walking pad features an HD display operation panel with a rotation speed control in the armrest, making it easy to read data as you walk or run. The walking pad is made from four layers of professional track to provide EVA cushioning and an anti-skid running belt. Although it initially felt wobbly, the walking pad is great overall, with perfect cushioning for a little bounce in our step. Plus, the detachable phone holder is useful if you prefer a hands-free option.
Max Speed: 7.4 mph | Max Incline: None | Weight Capacity: 240 lb
"I love low-impact workouts, like incline walking, and I'm just starting to get into running. I wanted this walking pad to increase my step count throughout the day, and I used it most often while working or eating lunch."
Why We Like It: This no-frills walking pad is easy to slide under furniture and folds for an even more compact footprint.
It’s Worth Noting: It only goes up to 3.7 mph, and the speed changes are jerky.
The WalkingPad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill offers two different ways to store this under-desk treadmill in a truly cramped space. We could fold it easily (no automatic mechanisms or buttons to press, just a simple manual fold), and slide it under a couch, though we should note that even when folded, the treadmill height is about 5”, so it may not fit perfectly under low-to-the-ground couches. While this walking pad was the easiest to store of all the options we tested, it’s very basic, so if you prefer more bells and whistles, you may need a more advanced option. There’s no incline or programs, limited speed, and we noticed that it was a little jerky when changing speeds. Compared to the GoPlus Under Desk Treadmill, this feels slightly overpriced, although we think it's a great option for anyone looking for nothing more than a simple, budget-friendly walking pad to get more steps in.
Max Speed: 3.7 mph | Max Incline: None | Weight Capacity: 220 lb
"I'm a yoga instructor, and admittedly, I hate running — but I loved using this treadmill as an accessible way to increase my step count. I also occasionally used it for incline walking."
Why We Like It: It syncs with an app for workout programs and more displayed on a digital monitor.
It’s Worth Noting: There’s no incline despite its wide speed range.
The MERACH T05 Smart Walking Treadmill may offer additional support if you're dealing with issues like knee pain and require more protection. It has a five-layer anti-slip shock absorption running belt alongside upgraded damping, which we found supportive for our joints, especially if we'd been standing all day. There’s even a handy remote to alternate speeds when you don’t have direct access to the control panel, Bluetooth connectivity alongside an LED display that keeps track of key data metrics, and a tablet holder if you need to take Zoom calls (or more) on the go.
Unlike many of the best walking pads we tested, this one goes up to 6 mph, so you can really work up a sweat. Despite the higher speed settings, the sound level was totally bearable when walking—we rate this as a "normal" noise level. Once you’re done for the day, its 90-degree foldable design and built-in wheels make for efficient and easy storage.
Max Speed: 7.5 mph | Max Incline: None | Weight Capacity: 265 lb
"I'm one year postpartum, and I've been participating in an ab rehab program while reintegrating HIIT runs into my workouts. I liked this walking pad for walking, but I didn't feel confident using it for running — it felt a little too shaky."
Why We Like It: It folds up to save you ample space when storing. It’s Worth Noting: There are no handrails.
As foldable treadmills go, you won’t get more seamless than the WalkingPad A1 Pro Foldable Under Desk Treadmill. Easy and small enough to slot under your dresser or bed, thanks to the addition of wheels, we found this super convenient as an under-desk treadmill. Thankfully, the setup was equally as smooth—the walking pad was plugged in and ready to go in less than five minutes (you may need two people to tug it out of the box, though). The remote has a strap to sling around your wrist for ease of use on the go, and we were pleased with the wear-resistant, non-slip walking pad, which was built with four layers, including EVA for shock absorption. This cushioning provided a bounce in our steps which felt safer on the joints—much more comfortable than walking on a hard sidewalk.
Max Speed: 3.72 mph | Max Incline: None | Weight Capacity: 230 or 300 lb
"I'm currently rehabbing a sacroiliac joint injury, so my fitness routine consisted of physical therapy exercises and walking on this under-desk treadmill. I used it to build strength and stamina during my recovery journey."
Why We Like It: It’s easy to set up and provides accurate insights.
It’s Worth Noting: The pad width may not be suitable for larger feet.
If you value simplicity over everything for your walking pad, consider the Walking Pad C2. Fully assembled out of the box, all you need to do is unfold your machine and plug it in. You can also download the app (you can find it with the QR code) and connect via Bluetooth to track your insights, including step count, calories, time, and distance traveled. There’s also a remote control to turn on and off, pause, and control speed, and the sound scale is impressively quiet.
If we were to nitpick, we'd mention two minor issues. First, the pad could be wider to avoid hitting the side, a problem that those with bigger feet could encounter. We also wish there were higher speed settings to accommodate a faster walking pace.
Max Speed: 3.72 mph | Max Incline: None | Weight Capacity: 220 lb
"I love CrossFit and strength training but found myself wanting an easy way to increase my cardio after my main workout. I used this walking pad daily for 45 minutes at a time to walk around 3 miles; occasionally, I added incline and jogged uphill."
Why We Like It: It has an adjustable handlebar and comes in two color options.
It’s Worth Noting: Its maximum speed is 3 mph.
At just 40 pounds and stretching 32.7 inches, the Lifepro Fitness PacerMini Pro Portable Treadmill is as compact as it gets. It's ready straight out of the box, requiring nothing more than plugging in the cord and shifting it into place. As a bonus, it provides access to a library of free personal training videos. Speed is controlled by a remote control (the treadmill has a remote holder), and once powered up, it’s surprisingly quiet.
If you're into higher speeds and longer strides when you walk, this treadmill may take some getting used to, though it does have a 7-degree incline for a more intense walking session. We loved the comfortable and supportive tread and the adjustable handrail. Storing was also a breeze—just a few turns of the knobs on both sides to lower the handle, and you can wheel it under furniture, so it's ideal for anyone with limited storage or a small living space.
Max Speed: 3 mph | Max Incline: 7 degrees | Weight Capacity: 220 lb
"While I was testing this, I was expecting a child and looking for a gentle way to move in between bouts of morning sickness and fatigue. Honestly, I don't love working out, but when I do, I prefer walking."
Under-desk treadmills are great for exercise, as they promote walking or running for those who must work at a desk throughout the day or perhaps those with small living spaces that cannot accommodate large machines.
You can use an under-desk treadmill any way you like, though it's common to walk or run on one for shorter periods of time (such as 30 minutes) throughout the workday. This is especially true considering how these treadmills or walking pads usually come with less speed or incline options for a complicated workout.
Kristen Geil is a senior commerce editor at Shape, where she primarily tests and reviews fitness equipment, workout apparel, running shoes, and more. She’s a USATF-certified running coach and is about to run her fourth marathon. She recently led Shape’s Sneaker Awards and Best in Fitness Awards, both of which involved testing and reviewing running-related fitness products. She has strong opinions about which treadmills are worth the splurge and which walking pads will help you get your miles in. For this article, she conducted interviews with walking and treadmill experts, and she did additional product research to make sure Shape recommended the best walking pads for all needs.
printing mats Leoni Jesner is a fitness, health, and lifestyle writer who contributed to Forbes Health, Insider, Verywell Fit, Byrdie, and LIVESTRONG, among others. As an internationally qualified personal trainer, mat Pilates instructor, and nutrition coach, Leoni is passionate about helping others achieve a healthy lifestyle focusing on the mind and body, a regular fitness routine, and a well-rounded approach to nutrition. Leoni earned a master's degree in business management from the University of Edinburgh and is an American Council on Exercise (ACE) personal trainer and Train Fitness mat Pilates instructor.