Standing desks are a growing trend. With things such as the apple watch giving people a ‘Stand’ goal, the fitness benefits of standing are now more publicised and thought about. Also, with desk jobs being around for as long as they have, the health impacts of a sedentary lifestyle are more understood with a wide selection of data obtained from generations of people who have spent their lives by the desk.
If there is a way to take off the pressure on your lower back as well as all the other side effects of sitting down while working, standing but at the same time also be active is the way to go. A treadmill desk not only has the responsibility of being a good treadmill but of being a good desk.
Here we will be exploring what makes a good desk and a good treadmill and how both features can be balanced in a way that works for you and is easy on the bank account.
What is the Best Treadmill Desks?
To find the Best Treadmill Desks for you we have used several of treadmills for desks and selected the absolute top 7 treadmills desks.
This is based on our first-hand experiences, years of practice as well as individual research on what others have to say, so that we can give you a more well-rounded review.
Feel free to scroll to the end of this article for a short buying guide and some frequently asked questions.
1. UREVO 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 59 pounds (26.76 kg) Size: 52.7 x 40.5 x 26.4 inches (133.9 x 102.9 x 67.1 cm) Speed: 7.6 miles per hour Max Horsepower: 2.5 hp Max weight: 265 lbs Display type: LED Display |
The UREVO 2-in-1 Under Desk Treadmill is a versatile model that works like a conventional treadmill for light jogging and a walking treadmill that you can use under a standing desk. While it does not feature handlebars and an elevated display console like you find on standard treadmills, it comes with a foldable, elevated media rack with control buttons for start, stop and speed adjustments. Plus, it allows for easy storage because you can slide it under your furniture or lean it against a wall inside your closet. The treadmill features a low 7.6 MPH top speed to help you maintain balance without handlebars while jogging or walking. It also comes with a remote control device for speed adjustments, considering that the display panel is on the running deck. The machine does not offer heart rate monitoring or extras such as Bluetooth, and the console only displays four metrics. The UREVO features a solid steel construction that supports a maximum weight of 265 pounds and comes with a 2.5 HP motor. Additionally, the treadmill is lightweight at 59 pounds for easy portability every time you need to use it. The running deck is notably compact-sized for performing low-impact workouts, while its 5-layer anti-slip running belt helps to dampen operation noise to 75db and reduce the impact on your joints.
Pros
- Versatile, low impact treadmill for walking and light jogging,
- Sleek and modern design with a self-lubricating running belt,
- The energy-efficient motor delivers smooth and powerful operation,
- The remote control enables convenient speed adjustments,
- Compact size allows easy transport and storage
Cons
- The treadmill is compatible with the TV remote controls,
- The motor overheats quickly and may have a short service life
2. LifeSpan TR1200-DT3 Under Desk Treadmill non Bluetooth version
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 133 pounds (60.33 kg) Size: 63 x 28.5 x 7.3 inches (160 x 72.4 x 18.4 cm) Speed: 4 mph miles per hour Max Horsepower: 2.25 hp Max weight: 350 lbs lbs Display type: LED |
LifeSpan TR1200 is one of the best-selling under-desk treadmills available in the market and at an affordable price point for its class. The treadmill features a phenolic deck with a portable LED control console that displays all your exercise metrics. It is an excellent exercise machine for people who have limited time for exercise and prefer to multi-task. However, it is just for walking as it comes with a top speed of 4 mph, and most people can manage a pace of up to 2.5 mph while working.
Another feature we like is its 2.25HP continuous duty motor that delivers a smooth operation to enable you to work while using it. Continuous duty means that the treadmill maintains 2.25HP throughout your workout, giving you better performance, unlike the typical budget models that feature peak duty motors which are unreliable. The LifeSpan TR1200 also features a 20 x 50 inches walking deck that enables users to walk comfortably without losing stability. The belt is made with multiple layers to ensure durability and impact absorption, which allows you to walk for a couple of hours on the treadmill without getting fatigued. Additionally, its high-quality components ensure minimum vibration and mechanical noise for quiet operation.
Pros
- Low profile and lightweight treadmill for under-desk application,
- Affordable and better quality than the competition,
- Features a portable control console with integrated step counter,
- Multi-layered walking belt has excellent shock absorption to take care of your joints
Cons
- It has a lot of button pushing to get it up to your desired speed
- Low impact treadmill that is unlikely to get your heart rate up
3. Doufit Upgraded 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill for Small Spaces
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 56 pounds (25.4 kg) Size: 53 x 23 x 39.5 inches (134.6 x 58.4 x 100.3 cm) Speed: 6 mph miles per hour Max Horsepower: 1.5 hp Max weight: 240 lbs lbs Display type: LED |
Doufit TD-01 Under Desk Treadmill has a 16-inch running deck, making it comfortable and safe to use without the handlebar support. It comes with a multi-functional LED monitor on the deck that displays your exercise data in clear digits for easy reference. It also comes with a remote control device to adjust the settings.
The treadmill is compact and lightweight for easy storage, and its 1.5HP offers quiet and smooth operation for working out while you work. Plus, the handlebar comes with a media rack where you can place your phone for entertainment when working out at home. We like that it comes assembled, and you’ll only need to screw in the handlebar out of the box.
Pros
- Folding handrail enables easy storage under furniture or upright against a wall,
- Pre-assembled with just the handrail bar to attach,
- Compact and lightweight treadmill with a small footprint for tight spaces,
- Easy to use and has a quiet operation for convenience
Cons
- The running belt may require aligning when new,
- The manufacturer does not offer returns or refunds for their treadmill
4. RHYTHM FUN Portable Walking Treadmill
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 78 pounds (35.38 kg) Size: 59 x 24 x 3 inches (149.9 x 61 x 7.6 cm) Speed: 3.7 mph miles per hour Max Horsepower: 1.5 hp Max weight: 220 lbs lbs Display type: LED |
Rhythm Fun Walking Treadmill also comes with a broad walking belt that gives you a better range of motion than other models. It features a modern design with a slim profile and lightweight construction. The treadmill comes with a reliable drive motor that delivers quiet operation and enables smooth speed adjustments for safety. It also comes with a responsive remote controller to operate. The Rhythm Fun fitness app also controls the treadmill and keeps track of your workout data. The running deck features a 7-layer belt that provides shock absorption to reduce foot fatigue and an anti-skid edge to prevent slipping off the treadmill. However, it does not feature a handrail, which makes some users feel unsafe without support while using the treadmill at high speed.
Pros
- Lightweight and comes ready to use,
- Broad walking surface provides stability and secure footing,
- Compatible with a fitness app to monitor your workout,
- High-quality construction with noise damping elements
Cons
- No handrail to support yourself at high speed,
- Not easy to move around when upright
5. GYMAX 2 in 1 Under Desk Electric Running Machine with LED Screen
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 69.5 pounds (31.52 kg) Speed: 7.5 mph miles per hour Max Horsepower: 2.25 hp Max weight: 265 lbs lbs Display type: LED |
The GYMAX foldable treadmill is a high-quality model that costs significantly more than the competition. However, it comes with excellent features that make it a top choice for many users who want to work out at home. It comes with a powerful 2.25HP motor that delivers quiet operation and has low power consumption. While some users complain that the treadmill is slower than the full-sized varieties, it is more reliable without stalling than the competition. The treadmill comes with its fitness that is compatible with Android and iPhone devices and is an excellent tool to track your fitness goals. The LED screen is on the deck, and the machine comes with a remote control device for making speed adjustments. On the downside, if the device gets lost or spoiled, it makes the treadmill unusable the treadmill does not feature control buttons. Other exciting features include Bluetooth speakers to connect with your phone for entertainment and a small phone holder on the handrail. However, the running deck is a little shorter than some cheaper foldable treadmills which is a drawback that many users have noted. Also, it doesn’t come with preset workout programs, which you would expect on a treadmill at this price range.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and is compact sized for use in tight spaces,
- Lightweight for moving it around to different rooms and for storage,
- Powerful motor with a smooth and silent operation for quiet environments,
- Compatible with a fitness app to keep track of your goals
Cons
- The treadmill does not feature control buttons, making it unusable without the remote controller,
- Speed, distance, and calories metrics are inaccurate,
- The power cord is short at 3 feet which may be an inconvenience to some users
6. REDLIRO Under Desk 2 in 1 Walking Machine
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 57 pounds (25.85 kg) Size: 51.9 x 24.8 x 42.1 inches (131.8 x 63 x 106.9 cm) Speed: 7.5 mph miles per hour Max Horsepower: 2.25 hp Max weight: 220 lbs lbs Display type: LED |
This under-desk treadmill comes with a more powerful motor than other models to sustain prolonged walking exercises at moderate speed. Generally, the REDLIRO 2-in-1 treadmill enables users to perform walking exercises as they work, making it an excellent choice for home and office environments. It also features a low-profile design for easy storage and transportation wheels for portability.
The treadmill features a 41 x 15 inches running surface that is only suitable for people with short strides and doesn’t allow a wide range of movement. The foldable handle makes it versatile for light jogging at the top speed and has quick access control buttons to adjust speed. The handrail also provides a phone holder to keep you entertained while working out.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight to use in tight spaces,
- Powerful motor that delivers reliable performance,
- Provides low impact exercises to boost your activity levels,
- Features inbuilt exercise programs to vary your regimen,
- The treadmill comes fully assembled and ready to use
Cons
- The narrow and short walking belt provides unsure footing,
- Not stable to use at high speed
7. REDLIRO Folding Treadmill for Home
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 61 pounds (27.67 kg) Size: 51.2 x 20.3 x 45.9 inches (130 x 51.6 x 116.6 cm) Speed: 7.5 mph miles per hour Max Horsepower: 2.25 hp Max Incline: 3 Levels ° Max weight: 220 lbs lbs Display type: LCD Heart rate monitor: Yes |
The REDLIRO Folding Treadmill is an entry-level exercise machine that provides users with an easy and hassle-free way to get back in shape. It is a lightweight treadmill with a small footprint for small spaces at an affordable price. Also, it comes with a few extra features that give it an edge over the competition. One of these is its three-level manual incline feature that helps build your leg muscles while adding more intensity to your workout. It also features pulse sensors on the handrails and offers 12 preset workout programs to help improve your performance. The treadmill comes with a 2.25HP drive motor that delivers a 7.5 mph top speed and a quiet exercise environment. The LCD control panel features a molded tray with two water bottle holders and an iPad holder. It also includes speakers, but there is no indication of Bluetooth connectivity. It also does not connect to any fitness apps to keep track of your progress. On the downside, the treadmill uses metric units to display your workout data and has no way of converting to imperial units. Also, while the manufacturer indicates a maximum weight capacity of 220 pounds, the treadmill struggles to work with users above 150 pounds. Another drawback is its lightweight frame that gets unstable when using the treadmill at top speed.
Pros
- The treadmill comes with built-in programs to improve performance,
- Three incline levels help to develop leg muscles,
- Running deck folds up for convenient storage,
- Compact and lightweight for small spaces
Cons
- The compact running deck does not accommodate tall users,
- Lightweight and unstable at high speed
Verdict
To sum up, out of the top 7 Best Treadmill Desks, our absolute top pick is UREVO 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill.
If you have the money, you can go for LifeSpan TR1200-DT3 Under Desk Treadmill non Bluetooth version which is our premium pick.
However, there’s nothing wrong with going for the budget option, which we found to be the Doufit Upgraded 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill for Small Spaces.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying treadmills desks
Maximum desk height
Treadmill desk combines a treadmill with a fully functional workstation, equipped with everything you need to keep in shape while working. Most treadmill workstations may be adjusted in height up to about 60 inches. Depending on the model, the height may be either manually or automatically adjustable. The maximum desk height depends on the height of the user, taller users may require higher desks for maximum comfort and productivity.
Desk stability
The stability of most treadmill desks is determined by the treadmill’s base and sturdiness. Suspensions and a thick belt on your treadmill should minimize vibration transfer, ensuring the treadmill desk’s stability. Some treadmill desks do not have legs attached to the floor of the treadmill but are instead connected to the railings which makes them more stable and vibrate less. Other treadmill workstations are stand-alone desks that are not connected to the treadmill in any manner. Instead, an under-desk treadmill is positioned beneath the workstation. This help separates the desk from treadmill vibrations.
Noise
The quality of a treadmill can sometimes be gauged by the amount of noise it produces when it’s used. No one wants a loud, clunky machine that leaves your ears ringing after use, so there are a few key things to look out for when buying a treadmill. The first is the treadmill mat. Typically, the thicker the mat, the less vibration and noise there will be. This is because the mat can absord the vibration before it’s converted to noise. Noise can also be minimised by good quality bearings and treadmill parts. However, as with most other treadmill features, a quiet and sturdier treadmill generally costs more, so we recommend that you consider how important minimising minimal noise is to you during your workout
Ergonomics
A treadmill setup suited to your build and height is essential to avoid running injuries, ensure comfort, and help you create sustainable workout routines. A basic rule of thumb for treadmill ergonomics is if it feels awkward and uncomfortable, you’re probably using it wrong. Start with your body approximately a foot away from the display screen, close enough to operate the display screen buttons at a comfortable height for your arms. The mat should be wide enough for your build with a small gap and long enough for your natural strid. All items on the display screen should be within arm’s reach when using the treadmill. If you are less of an average build, its always a good idea to try and test it out at a showroom to see if it suits your preferred running or walking needs.
Questions and Answers About treadmills desks
Can you run on an under-desk treadmill?
It is possible to run on an under-desk treadmill, although we recommend you only do so if the treadmill is equipped with support arms either side. This will help to prevent injury if the user becomes unstable while running. An extra layer of safety is achieved with a front console with hand grips if required. Make sure to maintain the treadmill well and wipe your desk of sweat when needed!
How do I protect my floor under my treadmill?
Due to the general ultra-heavyweight of a treadmill, the materials is made of, as well as the human weight on it when using it, it may cause damage to your home flooring.
Most manufacturers will recommend using a thicker and harder treadmill mat made of quality rubber below the machine to prevent floor cracking, dents, and chipping caused by the machine’s overall weight as well as the weight of the users during use.
What are some possible drawbacks of very cheap treadmills?
Cheap treadmills are likely to feature low-quality components, such as motors, wiring systems, system boards, and the machine belt, which could wear out quickly if used to its full potential. Aside from the added costs of replacing a treadmill, cheap treadmills with speeds less than roughly 10 miles per hour and little or no inclination function do not work to their full potential. These less expensive ones are frequently found to be unreliable in keeping track of time, distance, and burnt calories, which are the primary purposes of using a treadmill machine.
What makes a treadmill quiet?
It is much more enjoyable to run on a quiet, smooth treadmill than a noisy, clunky one. While the noise level usually depends on the quality of the machine, there are several things you can do to make a treadmill quiet. Consider placing the treadmill on a rubber mat to reduce vibration, and see if the treadmill manufacturer offers a thicker running mat which will most effectively minimise noise. You can also try adjust your running gait to softer, lighter strides which will also help prevent injury. And if the noise is still too much, it might be time to buy some good noise cancelling headphones to use when running.
