Things to Look For in an Under the Desk Treadmill

A small treadmill under the desk is a great option if you have a limited space in your home or have pets and children. These models fold in half, and feature wheels that make them easy to store.

The top desk treadmills have a low sound level, making them ideal for use during meetings. They also offer a comfortable surface for walking on and have different speed settings.

Comfortable Walking Surface

If you intend to use a treadmill underneath your desk for walking, it should feel comfortable. The best under desk treadmills will have a soft cushioned surface that gives the impression that you're walking pad desk on grass or carpet rather than hard pavement. It will also have some give, which prevents you from slipping as you walk. You should also make sure that the treadmill is stable and able to support your weight. Some of the top under desk treadmills we tested could support up 400 pounds, which is enough for most people.

Some treadmills under desks are designed as a basic walking mat, while others offer more advanced features. The GOPLUS under-desk treadmill that we looked at, for instance is a low-cost option that's ready to use right from the package. It comes with a remote and LED display panel that tracks time, speed, distance, calories burned and more. It can be linked to the Apple Health App to track your progress. It isn't as quiet as the other models we've tested, though, and it has a few minor issues (such as jerky changes in speed).

You can find under-desk treadmills that have additional features like an incline feature. One of the most distinctive products we've found is the Egofit Walker, which offers an elevated walking pads for under desk experience that's a bit more difficult than regular walking pads. The ability to climb is useful if you're looking to increase your energy levels and boost your overall fitness levels but it won't be a good fit for long periods of time.

Some treadmills under desks are quiet, which makes it easier to work out while doing it. We've reviewed a few models that are extremely quiet, including the Lifespan TR1200-DT3 desk treadmill that we've included on this list. It's a great choice for those who work in an office environment and want to avoid disrupting coworkers with their workouts.

Portable Console

You can opt for a smaller under-desk model if want a standing desk but need to walk on a treadmill. They are typically less expensive than traditional treadmills and have a smaller footprint, which means they're more compact and can be placed under your desk. They're also more portable and can be put away in a corner or closet when they're not being used. Some under-desk machines can be folded in half to save space.