My Top Pick!
Versatility
4.5
Value
5.0
Ease of Use
5.0
Our Score
4.8
Best for incline
Versatility
4.8
Value
4.4
Ease of Use
4.0
Our Score
4.4
easiest to fold
Versatility
4.5
Value
4.0
Ease of Use
4.3
Our Score
4.3
As a work-from-home fitness enthusiast, I am no stranger to walking pads, and I use my REVO walking pad every single day.
In fact, walking pads are one of top pieces of equipment my clients ask me about, primarily because they are great for beginners and advanced users alike. In this guide, I share my top 9 favorite walking pads.
9 Best Walking Pads For Staying On The Move
There are many walking pads on the market and most fall short when it comes to quality.
These are my top picks for home exercise. One more thing, treadmills and walking pads need lubricant to function - this is the lubricant product I use.
1. Best Overall Walking Pad - REVO (extra $45 Off At Checkout)
Workout Versatility
4.5
Value For Money
5.0
Ease Of Use
5.0
Ease Of Setup
4.8
Materials & Durability
4.6
Overall Rating
4.8
I love my REVO! It's got a 3.5HP motor and can go up to 4 mph, meaning I can lightly jog on it, although I do spend most my time walking.
Straight out of the box, this treadmill was ready to roll. Just plug it in, and you're good to go.
This walking pad is also relatively easy to move around. It's the lightest model on my list and this is a huge thumbs up for me.
This thing is a space-saver's dream. I primarily keep it in my living room, and it slides right under my couch when not in use.
The REVO is wider (16.5") and longer (42.5"), compared to other walking treadmills.
For example, the Go Plus and GYMAX models are only 40" long, but that 2.5" makes a huge difference for taller people like myself with a longer stride. This extra surface area makes it more comfortable to use in a walk of especially a jog.
It's super quiet, which is perfect for use in my work setting.
The remote is a neat little feature that lets me adjust the speed without breaking my stride. I love how it counts steps, calories, distance, and time. No smartwatch needed.
Motor (Max HP) | 3.5 HP (*Most Powerful) |
Deck Length (Belt Size) | 42.5” X 16.5” |
Weight Capacity | 300 Lbs |
Folded Dimensions | 49.5"D X 21.26"W X 5.12"H |
Min-Max Speed | 0.5-4 Mph |
Model Weight | 50 Lbs |
Programs | 12 |
Display Type | LED |
Warranty | 2 Years (*Longest) |
I recommend oiling the belt every now and then, and to help it last longer. I’ve had mine for about 10 months at this point, and I’ve used it basically every day for two hours (sometimes more), and it still works flawlessly with minimal maintenance.
While it did cost me a little more than some similar models I have reviewed, the increased HP, surface area and weight capacity makes this an easy #1 pick for under the desk walking pad treadmills.
Pros
Cons
2. Best For Incline - Redliro Walking Pad Treadmill
Workout Versatility
4.8
Value For Money
4.4
Ease Of Use
4.0
Ease Of Setup
4.1
Materials & Durability
4.4
Overall Rating
4.4
My runner-up choice for best walking pad is the Redliro. Just like the REVO walking pad, this one has the ability to allow walking anywhere from 0.5 to 4 miles per hour.
You won’t find me jogging on this one, though, because the difference here is that the Reliro is built with a 6% incline that cannot be adjusted.
This is great for burning additional calories and increasing my heart-rate, but I do feel like walking on an incline takes a bit more concentration than with my REVO, which provides a pretty flat surface.
Motor (Max HP) | 2.5 HP |
Deck Length (Belt Size) | 43” X 16.5” |
Weight Capacity | 350 Lbs (Highest) |
Folded Dimensions | 43"D X 22.5"W X 8"H |
Min-Max Speed | 0.5 - 4.0 Mph |
Model Weight | 66 Lbs |
Programs | 12 |
Display Type | LCD Remote |
Warranty | 1 Year |
I appreciate that the Redliro is a heavy duty product. At 70 lbs, it weighs almost as much as the GoPlus 2-in-1, but what’s really impressive is that it can hold up to 350 lbs., more than any other item on my list.
This is the product I recommend for my heavier clients, or for those who are looking for an incline but aren’t quite ready for a Stairmaster.
The one major downside is that at 8 inches tall, it’s too tall to slide under most beds. That said, most people who have this model tend to keep it in a specific spot where they can use it every day.
Pros
Cons
3. Easiest To Fold - SereneLife Smart Electric
Workout Versatility
4.5
Value For Money
4.0
Ease Of Use
4.3
Ease Of Setup
4.2
Materials & Durability
4.4
Overall Rating
4.3
The SereneLife Smart Electric Folding Treadmill is definitely more of a lightweight treadmill than it is a walking pad. I’m including in on my list, though, because it’s a fantastic option for lightweight, full-size treadmill.
This is a nice option for those who are looking for a more permanent solution than the REVO, which can easily slide under your desk or under your bed.
At nearly 120 lbs., you won’t find me moving this one around too often.
It is also built like standard treadmill, so this is not a “rails optional” model like the BiFanuo or GoPlus models.
Motor (Max HP) | 2.5 HP |
Deck Length (Belt Size) | 49.22” X 16.54” |
Weight Capacity | 265 Lbs |
Folded Dimensions | 66.14"D x 48.82"W x 29.33"H |
Min-Max Speed | 0.6 - 10 Mph |
Model Weight | 119 Lbs |
Programs | 36 |
Display Type | LCD |
Warranty | 1 Year |
The SereneLife will make a great choice for those who love to run, though.
With a speed range going up to 10 miles per hour, this is the model with the most speed on my list, and a full length belt to match at 49”.
It also has 15 automatic incline levels, which is even more than my (much more) expensive treadmill, which shocked me! How SereneLife keeps this model under $500 is truly impressive.
Pros
Cons
4. Smallest Option - LifePro Walking Pad Treadmill
Workout Versatility
3.9
Value For Money
4.4
Ease Of Use
4.8
Ease Of Setup
4.6
Materials & Durability
4.0
Overall Rating
4.3
The LifePro Flexifit is the smallest walking pad on my list at just 48 lbs, and it is made for the most petite of us out there.
I really must stress that this walking pad by LifePro is not built for everyone, and the company has made that clear. The FlexiFit 1HP is specifically designed for those who are 5’4” or shorter, and under 200 lbs.
If you’re on the verge of crossing either of those thresholds, I highly recommend spending the extra money to get the REVO.
Motor (Max HP) | 1 HP |
Deck Length (Belt Size) | 40” x 15.75” |
Weight Capacity | 200 Lbs |
Folded Dimensions | 48"D x 22"W x 4.7"H |
Min-Max Speed | 0.6 - 3.8 Mph |
Model Weight | 48 Lbs |
Programs | 0 |
Display Type | LCD |
Warranty | Lifetime |
The LifePro is great for getting your steps in and has a max speed of 3.8 mph, which isn’t that bad, especially given it’s short belt length. Like the GoPlus models, it has an adjustable hand rail than can be used or stowed away, making this a nice under-the-desk model.
I wish I could say that I am super impressed with LifePro’s Lifetime Warranty and customer service, but for this product, it seems necessary, as the belt often becomes off-centered or loose.
That said, it’s an easy fix that customer service will be happy to walk you through. One of my clients even had her model entirely replaced. At this price point (around $220), it’s nice to know the company stands behind their product.
Pros
Cons
5. SereneLife Folding Treadmill
Workout Versatility
4.6
Value For Money
4.8
Ease Of Use
4.2
Ease Of Setup
4.1
Materials & Durability
4.5
Overall Rating
4.4
If you liked the idea of the SereneLife model above, but don’t consider yourself a runner, then I recommend looking at this similar model by the brand.
This SereneLife model might be the lightest true treadmill I have ever worked with. It can’t fold up compact enough to fit under a bed like the REVO can, but it does fold up against a wall quite nicely.
Motor (Max HP) | 1.5 HP |
Deck Length (Belt Size) | 39.37” x 15.75" |
Weight Capacity | 265 Lbs |
Folded Dimensions | 25.19” x 24.01” x 49.21” |
Min-Max Speed | 0.6 - 6.5 Mph |
Model Weight | 54.9 Lbs |
Programs | 12 |
Display Type | LCD |
Warranty | 1 Year |
This works really well for my mom, who keeps this treadmill in her living room of her one bedroom apartment.
With a max speed of 6.5 miles per hour, you can definitely run on this model, but since it’s so lightweight, I have found that there is a quite a bit of rattling and vibrations at the higher speeds. For true running, I would probably go with the GYMAX model instead.
One thing to note on this one is that I do find the belt width to be slightly narrow. It’s 15.75” wide, but compared to the REVO at my house with a wider width of 16.5”, it seems rather narrow.
This hasn’t bothered my mom as she has a smaller frame, but it’s something to consider.
Pros
Cons
6. GoPlus 2 in 1
Workout Versatility
4.5
Value For Money
4.7
Ease Of Use
4.0
Ease Of Setup
4.5
Materials & Durability
4.4
Overall Rating
4.4
This model from GoPlus makes a great under desk walking pad and also works well for jogging to get more of a leg workout, with the added on handrails that essentially turn it into a mini treadmill.
When it's in "walking mode" with the rails folded down, the max speed is 2.5 MPH. I usually like to walk between 3.0 and 3.5 MPH when I'm watching TV on my REVO, but for the type of light workout many people look for at the office, 2.5 MPH is probably more suitable for an under-the-desk pace.
The GoPlus 2-in-1 has plenty of space to stand on, although perhaps not enough for people with exceptionally long gaits. For anyone over 6'3", I would recommend the longer belt of the REVO model.
There are built-in wheels to make it easy to move around or slide underneath a desk or couch. The GoPlus is a bit heavy at 70 lbs., but with the help of the wheels, I can certainly move this treadmill around the room without problem.
It’s not as easy to adjust as some other models, such as the BiFanuo, since you have to remove four screws to do it. Still, having two modes to choose from makes this machine very versatile considering the price.
Motor (Max HP) | 2.25 HP |
Deck Length (Belt Size) | 39.3” X 16” |
Weight Capacity | 265 Lbs |
Folded Dimensions | 52” X 27” X 5” |
Min-Max Speed | 0.6-7.45 Mph Running, 0.6-2.5 Mph Walking |
Model Weight | 70 Lbs |
Programs | GYMAX APP |
Display Type | LED |
Warranty | 3 Months |
I have a client who is training for a marathon. They use the GoPlus primarily for daily walking, but have had to convert it for a few long runs when the weather was bad, making this the right option for them.
For people who work near others, the motor on this treadmill is quiet, and there is enough padding in the belt to make footfalls nearly silent. Extra bonus features I love include a Bluetooth speaker, a cell phone holder, and remote control.
Pros
Cons
7. GoPlus Underdesk
Workout Versatility
5.0
Value For Money
4.5
Ease Of Use
4.0
Ease Of Setup
4.0
Materials & Durability
4.3
Overall Rating
4.4
This GoPlus model is similar to my top choice walking pad, the REVO, in that both models are perfect for walking at speeds up to 4 MPH.
The difference is that while the REVO has a powerful 3.5 HP motor ready for daily use, this GoPlus walking pad only has a 1 HP motor. It has a smaller weight limit of 220 lbs., and I recommend this one for more occasional use.
For those who enjoy walking while working at a standing desk, I do love that this model has an incline that will have you sweating and burning extra calories even at a slow walking pace.[1]
One thing that makes this such a great under desk treadmill with incline is its sturdy construction. It's made out of steel so it can take a few dings and bumps.
Motor (Max HP) | 1 HP |
Deck Length (Belt Size) | 41” X 17” |
Weight Capacity | 220 Lbs |
Folded Dimensions | 51.5” X 23.5” X 6.5” |
Min-Max Speed | 0.5-4 Mph |
Model Weight | 55.5 Lbs |
Programs | 12 |
Display Type | LED |
Warranty | 3 Months |
I think it's solid construction makes up for its very limited 3 month warranty. In general, I recommend only purchasing products with at least 1 year of coverage. My top choice, the REVO, has a 2 year warranty.
This GoPlus model should last a good while, and it has extra safety features like a quick-stop button on the remote. There are two wheels to make transporting this treadmill a breeze.
You can also choose from 12 different workout programs depending on what kind of exercise you want to get. I have found that the track muffles footfalls very effectively, so you can still use this machine even when the conference call isn't on mute.
Pros
Cons
8. GYMAX
Workout Versatility
4.8
Value For Money
4.7
Ease Of Use
4.0
Ease Of Setup
4.3
Materials & Durability
4.0
Overall Rating
4.3
This under desk walking pad has all the features available on similar models, and is very similar to the GoPlus 2-in-1 model. There’s a safety key, a remote, Bluetooth connectivity, a phone holder, and a removable armrest.
There’s the option of removing the vertical bracket to make it easier to fit underneath a standing desk so that you can use it while you work. However, this bracket is removed with a wrench and the procedure to do so is a bit complicated to do frequently.
However, I like that the bracket can be removed completely while I use the GYMAX walking pad under my desk. On the rare occasion I'll outfit it to a running pad, I just need to remember that the bracket is stored in my shed.
Motor (Max HP) | 2.25 HP |
Deck Length (Belt Size) | 40” X 16” |
Weight Capacity | 265 Lbs |
Folded Dimensions | 52” X 27” X 5” |
Min-Max Speed | 0.6-7.5 Mph |
Model Weight | 74 Lbs |
Programs | App |
Display Type | 2 LEDs |
Warranty | 1 Year |
I love that the GYMAX is app-controlled. Because let's face it: remotes are really nice until you can't remember where you placed them!
The app is super easy to use, and not only controls the walking pad, but allows you to choose between different training programs and show you stats such as distance walked or calories burned.
Also included is a Bluetooth speaker. I tested it, and it worked great, but honestly I don't see myself using it much because I work in a quiet office environment.
Pros
Cons
9. BiFanuo
Workout Versatility
4.0
Value For Money
4.4
Ease Of Use
4.7
Ease Of Setup
4.7
Materials & Durability
4.0
Overall Rating
4.3
The BiFanuo is a nice budget model walking pad that can go up to 7.5 MPH. So while it's not as durable as the GoPlus 2-in-1 or the GYMAX, it does provide a nice comparable pace, so this is the model I recommend to people who are looking to run indoors on a budget.
Many appealing features are built into this walking pad that make it a valuable addition to a home office. For example, it fits under a standing desk without any trouble, and it doesn't need any assembly whatsoever.
The BiFanuo is a folding under desk treadmill that doesn't require a screwdriver or wrench to fold up the vertical handle like the other models on my list do.
Motor (Max HP) | 2.25 HP |
Deck Length (Belt Size) | 41” X 16” |
Weight Capacity | 220 Lbs |
Folded Dimensions | 57.5” X 26” X 4.7” |
Min-Max Speed | 0.5-7.5 Mph |
Model Weight | 60 Lbs |
Programs | N/A |
Display Type | LCD |
Warranty | 1 Year |
For those who think they would be swapping between the two modes often, the BiFanuo would be a good choice.
Having an LCD display like the one on this model makes it even easier to change up the settings and run the program you want. It has many of the same readouts, like speed and distance right at your fingertips when the vertical bracket is up. If the bracket is down, there's a screen above the running belt so you can still see how fast you’re walking and for how long.
Heavier users should note that the BiFanuo has a weight limit of 220 lbs., which I consider quite low for such a heavy model and decent motor size.
If you're in the 220 lbs.+ category, I recommend looking into the REVO instead, which has a 300 lb. weight capacity.
Pros
Cons
How I Tested These Walking Pad Treadmills
Core Components
Weight Capacity
Most walking pads are made with "standard adult size" in mind. On my list, I have only included models that can handle at least 200 lbs. or more. My top choice, the REVO walking pad, has a phenomenal weight capacity of 300 lbs., and is always my first choice recommendation for clients looking to add more steps into their day. For my heavier clients, I recommend the Redliro, which has a max weight capacity of 350 lbs.
Deck Length & Width
The people that I find struggle the most with walking pad size is those who are very tall, and therefore have a long walking stride. Most walking pads have a length of around 40 inches, and I definitively wouldn't recommend purchasing anything shorter. The REVO walking pad has the longest length belt on my list at 42.5" on a walking pad. (The SereneLife model is more of a mini treadmill and had a 49" belt length.)
Width is also a consideration, but most people find standard belts of 16 inches to be just fine. The GoPlus Underdesk has an extra-wide belt of 17" for more support.
Portability, Storage & Stowage
Having enough floor space is also a key component of using an under desk treadmill. Most under desk treadmills are built with wheels to transport them and are low-profile enough to store under a desk or couch. Models with running rails, such as the GYMAX, are just as easy to store, but do take a few minutes to disassemble.
Noise
While some products like fans are measured in decibels by how loud they are, the walking pad industry isn't quite there yet, and obviously the sound level will be determined by the speed at which you're walking. To reduce noise, I recommend the following:
Advantages & Drawbacks Of Under Desk Walking Pads
ADVANTAGES
DRAWBACKS
Walking Pad Treadmills Compared
Preview | Product Name | Deck Size | Weight Capacity | Max Speed | Motor | Warranty | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
42.5” x 16.5” | 300 lbs | 4 mph | 3.5 HP (biggest) | 2 Years | |||
43” X 16.5” | 350 Lbs | 4 Mph | 2.5 HP | 1 Year | |||
49.22” X 16.54” | 265 Lbs | 10 Mph | 2.5 HP | 1 Year | |||
40” x 15.75” | 200 Lbs | 3.8 Mph | 1 HP | Lifetime Warranty | |||
39.37” x 15.75" | 265 Lbs | 6.5 Mph | 1.5 HP | 1 Year | |||
40” x 16” | 265 lbs | 7.45 mph running, 2.5 mph walking | 2.25 HP | 3 Months | |||
41” x 17” | 220 lbs | 4 mph | 1 HP | 3 Months | |||
40” x 16” | 265 lbs | 7.5 mph | 2.25 HP | 1 Year | |||
41” x 16” | 220 lbs | 7.5 mph | 2.25 HP | 1 Year |
Common Walking Pad FAQs
Walking pads can help contribute to weight loss, especially when paired with a calorie deficit.
It’s completely fine to walk on a treadmill, but your body may need to get used to it. Ease your way in by walking a few times a week in the beginning.
Results vary in studies on the impact of under desk treadmills and productivity. For some people, getting the blood pumping is a great way to prevent the post-lunch slump, while for others, it helps them get energized at the beginning of the day.
Most under desk treadmills aren't built for sprinting. They tend to max out around 7 MPH, and at that speed, you can certainly get up to a brisk pace safely, provided you have enough space to do so.
REVO has quickly become the top walking pad brand, not only for their high-quality products but also for their customer service and warranty coverage.
Which Is Best?
Being a remote fitness professional, I find it challenging to stay active apart from my gym workouts. Without office strolls to meeting rooms or coffee breaks, my opportunities for movement are limited.
If you want some physical activity in your day, an under desk walking pad with enough horsepower, quiet operation, and fitness programs is ideal.
The REVO Walking Pad provides all that and is backed up by a one-year warranty, making it the best under desk treadmill.
RECOMMENDED WALKING PAD!
Workout Versatility
4.5
Value For Money
5.0
Ease Of Use
5.0
Ease Of Assembly
4.8
Materials & Durability
4.6
Overall Rating
4.8
References:
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-truth-behind-standing-desks-2016092310264
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5724138/
Last Updated on October 30, 2024