The 8 Best Walking Pads and Under-Desk Treadmills of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Collage of the best walking pads and under-desk treadmills we recommend — Shape / Alli Waataja

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.

The TL;DR on the Best Walking Pads

We tested walking pads for four weeks, analyzing each on storage options, features, comfort, and value.
Our best walking pad overall is the Egofit Walker Pro-M1 Treadmill, thanks to its 5 percent incline, remote control, and quiet motor.
Our best budget walking pad is the GoPLUS Under Desk Treadmill, which is under $300 with a max speed of 4 mph.

Our Top Picks

Best Walking Pad Overall:

Egofit Walker Pro-M1 Treadmill at Walmart ($399)

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Best Budget Walking Pad:

GOPLUS Under Desk Treadmill at Amazon ($280)

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Best Splurge Walking Pad:

WalkingPad X21 Double-Fold Treadmill at Amazon ($999)

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Best Walking Pad for Small Spaces:

WalkingPad Foldable Treadmill at Amazon ($399)

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Best Walking Pad with Shock Absorption:

MERACH T05 Smart Walking Treadmill at Amazon ($300)

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Best Walking Pad That Folds:

WalkingPad A1 Pro Foldable Under Desk Treadmill at Amazon ($519)

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Best Walking Pad Without Handrails:

WalkingPad C2 Folding Treadmill at Amazon ($499)

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Best Portable Walking Pad:

LifePro PacerMini Pro Treadmill at Amazon ($250)

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Best Walking Pad Overall

Egofit Walker Pro-M1 Treadmill

Egofit

View On Walmart $399 View On Egofitwalker.com

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.

Max speed: 5 mph | Max incline: 5% | Weight capacity: 220 lbs

The Egofit Walker was the best walking pad we tested, thanks to its 5 percent incline, remote control, and quiet functionality. We were able to 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 when not in use, and we didn’t struggle to move it. The tread was super quiet when in use (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 (it shows calories, time, steps, distance, and speed), although the screen was too small for us to read the data easily while on the tread.

Tested By: Mike N.

"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."

Shape / Michael Navarro
Shape / Michael Navarro
Shape / Michael Navarro

Best Budget Walking Pad

GOPLUS Under Desk Treadmill

Amazon

View On Amazon $280 View On Walmart $280 View On Goplusus.com $290

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.

Max speed: 4 mph | Max incline: None | Weight capacity: 220 lbs

For an affordable treadmill (think: well 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 that are designed to meet different goals (such as improving cardio fitness or building endurance), which adds a spark of variety without any manual adjustments. The remote has clever “quick jump” buttons so you can easily switch speeds with 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.

Tested By: Lauren C.

"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."

Best Splurge Walking Pad

WalkingPad X21 Double-Fold Treadmill

WalkingPad

View On Amazon $999 View On Walkingpad.com

Why We Like It: Its sleek design is infused with technology.

It’s Worth Noting: It weighs 100 pounds and is difficult to move.

Max speed: 7.4 mph | Max incline: None | Weight capacity: 240 lbs

If you’re on the hunt for a walking pad that stands the test of time, the WalkingPad X21 Double-Fold Treadmill 7.4 MPH is the investment buy for you. What justifies its price tag is how it multifunctions as an under-desk treadmill and 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. This makes for 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 felt wobbly at first, 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.

Tested By: Jenni M.

"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."

Best Walking Pad for Small Spaces

WalkingPad Foldable Treadmill

WalkingPad

View On Amazon $399 View On Walkingpad.com View On Newegg.com $798

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.

Max speed: 3.7 mph | Max incline: None | Weight capacity: 220 lbs

For a truly cramped space, the WalkingPad P1 Foldable Walking Treadmill offers two different ways to store this under-desk treadmill. We were able to fold it easily (no automatic mechanisms or buttons to press, just a simple manual fold), and we also slid it as-is under a couch. 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 without any bells and whistles. There’s no incline, limited speed, no programs, and we noticed that it was a little jerky when changing speeds; it feels a little overpriced compared to the GoPlus Under Desk Treadmill. That said, if you’re looking for a super simple, budget-friendly walking pad to get more steps in, this will get the job done.

Tested By: Michelle P.

"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."

Shape / Michelle Parente
Shape / Michelle Parente
Shape / Michelle Parente

Best Walking Pad with Shock Absorption

MERACH T05 Smart Walking Treadmill

MERACH

View On Amazon $300 View On Merachfit.com

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.

Max speed: 7.5 mph | Max incline: None | Weight capacity: 265 lbs

The MERACH T05 Smart Walking Treadmill may offer additional support if your knee pain requires added 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 a handy remote to alternate speeds when you don’t have direct access to the control panel. Unlike many of the best walking pads we tested, this one tops out at 6 mph for working up a sweat. As for design, the treadmill offers Bluetooth connectivity alongside an LED display that keeps track of key data metrics. The tablet holder is a nifty add-on if you want to take Zoom calls (or more) on the go. Sound-wise, it was totally bearable when walking—we rate this as a "normal" noise level. This level creeps up at higher speeds, though. Once you’re done for the day, its 90-degree foldable design and built-in wheels make for efficient and easy storage.

Tested By: Mary H.

"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."

Shape / Mary Honeyman-Speichinger
Shape / Mary Honeyman-Speichinger
Shape / Mary Honeyman-Speichinger

Best Walking Pad That Folds

WalkingPad A1 Pro Foldable Under Desk Treadmill

WalkingPad

View On Amazon $519 View On Walkingpad.com View On Hsn.com $600

Why We Like It: It folds up to save you ample space when storing.
It’s Worth Noting: There are no handrails.

Max speed: 3.72 mph | Max incline: None | Weight capacity: 230 or 300 lbs

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 (it has wheels), we found this super convenient as an under-desk treadmill. The setup was equally as smooth. In less than five minutes, we had the walking pad plugged in and ready to go (you may need two people to tug it out of the box). The remote has a strap to sling around your wrist for ease of use on the go. On the comfort scale, the walking pad felt secure under our feet. It’s wear-resistant, non-slip, and built with four layers including EVA for shock absorption. This cushioning gave a bounce in our step which felt safer on the joints. It was more comfortable than walking on a hard sidewalk.

Tested By: Maria R.

"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."

Best Walking Pad Without Handrails

WalkingPad C2 Folding Treadmill

WalkingPad C2 Foldable Walking Treadmill

Amazon

View On Amazon $499 View On Walkingpad.com $550

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.

Max speed: 3.72 mph | Max incline: None | Weight capacity: 220 pounds

You won’t go wrong adding the Walking Pad C2 to your cart if you value simplicity in walking pads. Fully assembled out of the box, all that was left to do was unfold it and plug it in. We also downloaded the app (you can find it with the QR code) and connected via Bluetooth to track our insights. Both the treadmill and app display step count, calories, time, and distance traveled. There’s also a remote control to turn on and off, pause, and control speed. On the sound scale, it’s impressively quiet. If we’re to nitpick, there are two minor issues. First, the width of the pad could be wider to avoid hitting the side. This is especially true for big feet. The other thing is perhaps a higher speed would accommodate a faster walking pace.

Tested By: Marco B.

"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."

Best Portable Walking Pad

LifePro PacerMini Pro Treadmill

LifePro

View On Amazon $250 View On Lifeprofitness.com $329

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.

Max speed: 3 mph | Max incline: 7 degrees | Weight capacity: 220 pounds |

At just 40 pounds and stretching 32.7 inches, the Lifepro Fitness PacerMini Pro Portable Treadmill is as compact as it gets. Ready straight out of the box, all it required was plugging in the cord and shifting it into place. As a bonus, it comes with 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. The maximum speed on this walking pad taps out at 3 mph. Keep in mind, this mini treadmill can take some getting used to if speed and long strides are your walking style. On the plus side, the tread was comfortable and supportive for walking and the adjustable handrail is there if you need it. It’s naturally set at a 7-degree incline for a more intense walking session. 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. This treadmill is ideal for anyone with limited storage or a small living space.

Tested By: Andrea T.

"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."

Shape / Andrea Tenborg
Shape / Andrea Tenborg

What to Know About Walking Pads and Under-Desk Treadmills

Storage: Most walking pads are less than 7” high, so they can fit easily under desks and certain pieces of furniture when not in use. Some options are also foldable for more storage possibilities.
Price: Under-desk treadmills and walking pads are typically less expensive than full-sized treadmills, with many options under $600. “If you plan to keep your tread at home you may want to invest in a unit with a little more durability which will cost more,” explains Paizley Longino, Certified Personal Trainer and Coach for STRIDE Fitness.
Speed and incline: Since they’re smaller and lack much of the stability of full-sized treadmills, walking pads are limited in how fast they can go and what incline they can reach (if any). Most under-desk treadmills we tested topped out at 4 or 5 mph, and only one had incline (up to 5 percent). “In general, 2 to 4 mph is considered walking pace on a treadmill,” says Larson. “If multitasking or you’d rather not break a sweat over an important Zoom call, keep the tread on the lower end.”
Features: The most common features in under-desk treadmills include a separate remote control, a built-in display on the pad, and app compatibility.

You Might Also Need...

An exercise mat can protect your floors from any scratches, especially if you plan on moving or storing your walking pad in between uses.
A standing desk on wheels can transform your walking pad into a work station.
A treadmill cover can protect your walking pad from dust and also reduce the risk of a child accidentally turning the treamdill on.
A battery-operated fan can keep you cool as you crank the speed.
A water bottle holder helps you stay hydrated during long walks.
A tablet holder keeps your iPad or Kindle secure so you're entertained for hours.

Why Trust Shape

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.

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.

In This Article

Best Walking Pad Overall

Egofit Walker Pro-M1 Treadmill

Best Budget Walking Pad

GOPLUS Under Desk Treadmill

Best Splurge Walking Pad

WalkingPad X21 Double-Fold Treadmill

Best Walking Pad for Small Spaces

WalkingPad Foldable Treadmill

Best Walking Pad with Shock Absorption

MERACH T05 Smart Walking Treadmill

Best Walking Pad That Folds

WalkingPad A1 Pro Foldable Under Desk Treadmill

Best Walking Pad Without Handrails

WalkingPad C2 Folding Treadmill

Best Portable Walking Pad

LifePro PacerMini Pro Treadmill

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