Want to get your steps in while working or watching TV? Our expert puts walking pads through their paces to find the best for comfort, noise and ease of storage
The best treadmills for your home
You don’t necessarily need to walk 10,000 steps a day to improve your health and wellbeing. In fact, the NHS encourages a slightly more manageable target of just 10 minutes of brisk walking daily to introduce more moderate-intensity physical activity and reduce your risk of early death by up to 15%.
However, even squeezing in “brisk walks” can be a chore, with busy schedules and increasingly desk-bound jobs forcing more of us to remain sedentary for long periods. That is where walking pads come in, being lighter, smaller and often easier to store than bulky and tricky-to-manoeuvre running treadmills.
When coupled with a standing desk, walking pads can be used while working – or when watching TV in the evening. Just a couple of 30-minute sessions add thousands of steps to your daily tally. In fact, a 60-minute walk at an easy 3km an hour can burn between 200 and 300 additional calories.
Walking pads are often cheaper than full-size treadmills, simple to use and relatively easy to store, and they’re perfect for adding more movement to your life without having to give up the day job.
At a glance
Best walking pad overallUrevo SpaceWalk 5L smart walking pad
Best budget walking pad and best for beginnersBigzzia Walking pad with incline
Best lightweight walking padJTX MoveLight
Best foldable walking padBodyMax WP60
Why you should trust me
I’m a keen fitness fan who does everything from gym-based strength training and kickboxing classes to outdoor trail runs and cold-water surfing. As a result, I’ve often been tasked with testing fitness technology for industry magazines, and I’m always keen to get stuck in.
I strongly believe that you need to live with new tech for a bit to grasp how it fits into daily life, so I aim to test products for as long as possible and in the right environment. With walking pads, that meant strolling along, racking up the steps and burning calories – even while I wrote up this feature.
How I tested
There was only one way to properly trial the eight walking treadmills selected for this test, and that was to mimic the customer journey by ordering, taking delivery, unboxing, setting them up and then using them day to day.
The best walking treadmills – or walking pads – aren’t quite as bulky as regular running treadmills, so I could have multiple models on the go at home at once: one under my desk, one in front of the television and one in my wife’s office upstairs, testing each for at least three days.
The testing process involved a lot of additional steps and – in some cases at least – a whining soundtrack that drowned out whatever Netflix series the family was watching. Besides general observations on the heft, ease of storage and operation, quietness and build quality, I tested any additional features such as incline and speed adjustments, as well as any remote controls or apps.
To get a good idea of energy consumption and the overall cost of running a walking treadmill, I plugged each unit into a power meter to calculate the cost based on the October energy price cap.
Here are the four best walking pads you can buy now.
The best walking pads in 2026
Best walking pad overall: Urevo SpaceWalk 5L smart walking pad
The Urevo SpaceWalk 5L is one of the most fully featured walking pads I’ve tested. It combines excellent build quality with a quiet motor, automatic incline and a great free companion app – which makes it feel more like a proper piece of fitness equipment than a basic under-desk treadmill. It’s slim enough to slide under a sofa when not in use, yet robust enough to cope with daily walking or even light jogging.
Why we love it Unlike most rivals, the SpaceWalk 5L’s accompanying app is genuinely useful. It allows you to record workouts and track steps, distance and walking time, while also offering structured walks with automatic incline adjustment.
The software also syncs with Apple Health, while the proprietary app lets you take part in a number of on-demand workouts, where incline and speed are controlled automatically. It also offers virtual walks, where you can take a sort of video tour of exotic locations. Unfortunately, it doesn’t feature the FTMS protocol that allows it to beam speed, cadence and incline data to a third-party app like Zwift. So your virtual avatar won’t move on the screen without a workaround such as a third-party, cadence-sensing footpod or compatible smartwatch.
It is one of the quietest walking pads I’ve tested, though. At my preferred 2.5km/h working/walking pace, the motor averaged just 48dB – barely louder than my keyboard as I was furiously typing up this review.
Build quality is also noteworthy. The weighty, front-mounted motor gives it a reassuringly solid feel, while adjustable feet make levelling on uneven floors easy. Its claimed 12-point shock absorption system also provides enough cushioning for walking in just socks, although I’d still recommend trainers for longer sessions.
The incline, which can be automatically controlled when using Urevo’s app, adds another dimension for anyone aiming to increase the intensity of their walks.
Energy use is impressively low, too. At a comfortable 2.5km/h, the SpaceWalk 5L drew around 40W during testing, costing roughly 1p an hour based on the 1 October electricity price cap.
At its 6km/h maximum speed, this rose to about 3p an hour, with the incline motor briefly drawing more power when adjusting the deck.
While 6km/h is no more than a brisk walk or gentle jog, the SpaceWalk 5L feels stable throughout. It doesn’t fold, but its slim design and the integrated wheels make it easy to roll under a bed or sofa for storage.
It’s a shame that … the incline functionality makes it slightly bulkier than the simplest ultra-slim walking pads.
Size: 124 x 51.5 x 15.5cm (LWH) Weight: 23kg Walking deck size: 40 x 100cm Maximum user weight: 181kg Incline: 0-9% automatic Maximum speed: 6km/h Folding: no
Best budget walking pad and best for beginners: Bigzzia walking pad with incline
The Bigzzia is very much a budget walking pad, and it shows. The construction is basic, the running deck is narrow and short, and the display is hardly sophisticated. But it’s remarkably cheap and has a surprisingly high 10km/h top speed and a manual incline setting.
Why we love it The Bigzzia’s biggest selling point is that 10km/h maximum speed. That’s considerably faster than most under-desk walking pads, and means it can double as a basic treadmill for walking and light jogging.
However, the deck is so short that running at anything approaching its maximum speed feels unnerving. I’d be much happier using it for walking or, at most, very short bursts of jogging.
The running surface has a surprisingly good grip, but there’s little flex or meaningful cushioning underneath, making longer sessions uncomfortable. It’s better suited to shorter walks than all-day use.
It does come with an 8% incline, although this isn’t a motorised function. You simply flip out two feet at the sides and put the supplied rubber supports underneath them to raise the deck. No range of settings here.
The simple display shows the basics: speed, calories, time and distance, automatically cycling between the figures as you walk. There isn’t really a way to lock it to any particular metric – another reminder that this is a very simple machine.
Interaction is equally basic – via a small wireless remote control. Lose or break it, though, and you’ll be stuck. You also need to supply the AAA batteries for it.
For portability, however, the Bigzzia shines. At just 12.86kg, it is light enough to pick up and carry, something I can’t say about many of the walking pads here. It also has a couple of small wheels at the front, so you can tip it and wheel it around if you prefer. And while the short deck might prove a drawback for running, it’s great for storage: it slides easily under a sofa or can be stored upright against a wall.
Noise is another compromise, however. Walking at 2.5km/h, I measured about 52dB, with a noticeable whine and plenty of foot thump from the deck. It’s not disastrous for a walking pad at this price, but it’s certainly more obvious than the best machines I’ve tested.
Power consumption is also higher than that of some rivals. I measured 54W at 2.5km/h (about 1p an hour at the UK electricity rates at the time of writing) and 166W at its 10km/h top speed (about 4p an hour). Running costs remain low overall, but it’s less energy efficient than some more sophisticated walking pads.
Another omission worth knowing about is the lack of an automatic stop function. That means the motor will continue running if you fall or simply walk away, so you need to be a little more careful about how you use it.
It’s a shame that … it’s let down by the short deck, noisy motor and basic controls, but it’s one of the cheapest walking pads out there.
Size: 104 x 49 x 11cm (LWH) Weight: 12.86kg Walking deck size: 37 x 90cm Maximum user weight: 130kg Incline: 0 or 8% manual Maximum speed: 10km/h Folding: no
Best lightweight walking pad: JTX MoveLight
JTX often appears in the “best value” section of home fitness equipment reviews, known for offering reliable build quality at affordable prices, but its machines tend to prioritise function over flashy design and cutting-edge technology.
The MoveLight walking pad is different, however. It’s the most expensive walking pad in this roundup, and there’s a tangible difference in the build quality compared with cheaper walking pads. The JTX also offers a sizeable display, cushioned walking deck and quiet 1hp electric motor. It’s a solid treadmill offering speeds of up to 6km/h, meaning it’s possible to use it for slow jogging without the worry of it falling apart.
Why we love it The MoveLight is similar in design to the BodyMax reviewed below and has a solid plastic chassis that gives it a more premium feel than its cheaper rivals. The running deck is generously sized and well cushioned, making longer walking sessions more comfortable.
The extra-large LED console is easy to use and neatly scrolls through speed, time and step count as you walk. The shrill beeps upon startup and when you adjust the speed may cause office mates to want to throw a pencil at you, however.
With the small plastic remote, you can adjust the speed, stop or start the unit and scroll the display between distance, calories and time on one half, and speed and step count on the other.
The 1hp motor is powerful enough to propel the deck up to 6km/h, where it remains much quieter than some of the others tested.
Overall, it feels like a walking pad that will go the distance – and so it should, given the price – but that solid build does make it a pain to move around the house; it will require some serious muscle to tip it up on to its wheels. It also doesn’t fold like the BodyMax machine.
Oh, and one final public service announcement: those with wooden floors will want to take care that the wheels and plastic feet don’t scratch the surface during transport.
During testing, I found it to be slightly more power-hungry than rivals, supping about 100W at 3.5km/h, meaning it costs about 3p an hour to power.
It’s a shame that … it’s so big and heavy to move around, which makes storing it after each session a chore.
Size: 147 x 60 x 12.5cm (LWH) Weight: 29.5kg Walking deck size: 45 x 122cm Maximum user weight: 100kg Incline: none Maximum speed: 6km/h Folding: no
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Best foldable walking pad: BodyMax WP60
One of the most expensive models on test, the BodyMax walking pad is also one of the best built and easiest on the eye. It’s the only model that genuinely folds in half, making it easier to squeeze into a cupboard or wardrobe.
However, at around 30kg, it’s not the easiest to move, despite wheels at the front that allow it to be tipped on its end and rolled around.
Potential portability issues aside, this machine offers a fantastic walking experience, with a neat, bright and easy-to-read LED panel that gives clear and scrolling readouts of workout time, distance, speed and average calorie burn.
Very much the Porsche of the walking pad world, the BodyMax unit combines stylish looks and powerful performance.
Why we love it Like most walking pads here, the BodyMax comes with a remote for adjusting speed, but its clever A Mode goes a step further, using foot placement to automatically adjust the pace.
Stay in the middle, and it maintains pace; walk towards the front to speed up or hang back to slow down. It’s a useful touch that saves you constantly fiddling with the remote. The deck itself is nicely cushioned, and the motor is among the quietest on test.
Those wanting their walking pad to double up as a running treadmill may be disappointed, however: the WP60 tops out at 6km/h, which is a very fast walking pace but a slow jog for most. Not a single walking pad I’ve tested has done a convincing job as a running treadmill, though, being either too flimsy underfoot, too noisy, or simply not built to withstand the endless thumping of a sprint session.
If you’re seeking robust build quality, the BodyMax WP60 walking pad is well worth the additional outlay. As it folds in half, it can be tucked under a desk or rested against a wall when not in use.
It’s a shame that … it’s heavy and awkward to move around when folded.
Size: 143 x 55 x 13cm (LWH) Weight: 28kg Walking deck size: 42 x 120cm Maximum user weight: 100kg Incline: none Maximum speed: 6km/h Folding: yes, folds in half for storage
What you need to know
What should I look for when buying a walking pad?
The biggest difference between walking pads, aside from overall build quality, is their top speed. Most max out at about 6km/h, which is ideal for walking while working at a standing desk or a brisk stroll in front of the TV. If you’re hoping to jog as well, look for models that reach 8-10km/h – although be aware that you’ll generally sacrifice some stability and comfort compared with a full-size treadmill.
Next comes incline. Premium models tend to offer a motorised incline function that can be adjusted at the touch of a button, while cheaper alternatives rely on manually extending support feet for a fixed gradient. Even a small incline can noticeably increase calorie burn and make walks feel more challenging.
Also pay attention to the size of the walking deck. A longer, wider belt will feel far more comfortable and safer, particularly if you’re tall or have a long stride. Finally, think about practicalities such as noise, storage, transport wheels, companion apps and maximum user weight. If you plan to use your walking pad for several hours a day while working from home, spending a little more on a quieter, sturdier model is usually money well spent.
How much should I spend?
Prices vary when it comes to walking pads, with the most affordable costing about £90. Anything less than that is unlikely to be long-lasting. From my testing, the sweet spot seems to be about £250, where you can get a good blend of value and decent build quality. Some of the best I tested were, predictably, among the most expensive. These high-end models typically cost about £500.
How much room do you need?
If you’ve got good clearance underneath a bed or sofa, most walking pads will happily slide underneath without the need to fold them up. Imagine a slimmed-down treadmill without the safety handle, and you’re basically there.
Models such as the BodyMax WP60 fold in half, which drastically reduces the length (or height, depending on how you store it), making them much easier to slide into more compact spaces such as a cupboard or wardrobe. But bear in mind they can weigh up to 30kg, so they can be tricky to move without help.
How easy is it to maintain a walking pad?
Most walking pads come with a small bottle of silicone oil. This is used to lubricate the underside of the walking belt every couple of months to ensure smooth movement, depending on use. Most manufacturers also supply the required hex key so you can adjust the belt if it’s slipping or has moved slightly off-centre.
Quickly check the belt alignment and any moving parts every couple of months, and it should be enough to keep a walking pad running smoothly for years.
Can I run on a walking pad?
Some walking pad speeds are capped at about 6km/h, which makes running on them tricky. A plodding jog is a better description. A few of the walking pads I tested did reach much higher speeds, and most of these came with a folding safety handle that extends to allow them to safely reach those speeds, giving the runner something to hang on to should the worst happen. These also came with a separate safety system: a small magnetic tag that attaches to clothing. If this becomes detached, the machine shuts off.
The general build and robustness of walking pads aren’t up there with their running-focused counterparts, though. That means they can be noisy, shift around underfoot and generally feel a bit flimsy during faster and longer runs. On top of this, those without handles don’t always have the automatic shut-off functionality, which can make them more dangerous, particularly when using them at higher speeds.
In summary, running treadmills are better suited to those wanting to move at higher speeds. They feature more underfoot cushioning or built-in suspension systems, which make longer, faster sessions more comfortable and easier on the joints.
Can you use a walking pad on carpet?
In most cases, yes, but it depends on both the walking pad and the type of carpet. Most manufacturers recommend using a walking pad on a hard, level surface as this provides the best stability and allows air to circulate around the motor. Thick, plush carpets can restrict airflow, increasing the risk of overheating, while also making the machine less stable underfoot.
If carpet is your only option, a low-pile carpet is usually fine, especially with a treadmill mat underneath. This helps spread the load more evenly, protects the carpet from compression and reduces vibration travelling through the floor.
Regardless of the surface, ensure enough clearance around the machine for safe use and so that the belt runs freely without rubbing. It’s also worth checking underneath every so often to remove dust and fluff, especially if you have pets, as debris can build up around the motor and rollers over time.
What does weight capacity mean, and what other safety features should I look for?
Maximum user weight isn’t just about whether a walking pad can physically support you – it’s also an indication of how robust the frame, motor and deck are. Choosing a model with a higher weight capacity can often mean a more stable, longer-lasting machine.
Beyond that, look for an emergency stop function or safety key if you intend to jog. Some walking pads automatically stop the belt if they detect you’ve stepped off, while others continue running until you turn them off manually. As I found during testing, not every budget model includes this feature, so check before you buy.
A wide, grippy walking surface also improves confidence, particularly if you’re working at a standing desk, while decent shock absorption can reduce fatigue during longer sessions. Finally, ensure the walking pad has non-slip feet and is sitting securely before every use, as even slight movement can become distracting or unsafe – not to mention damaging to expensive wooden floors.
What’s the difference between a walking pad and a treadmill?
Although they look similar, walking pads and treadmills are designed for different purposes. Walking pads prioritise compact size, low noise and easy storage, with many slim enough to slide under a sofa or bed. They’re primarily designed for walking rather than running, making them ideal for staying active while you work or watch TV.
Traditional treadmills are larger, heavier and more versatile. They typically offer higher top speeds, wider and longer running decks, better cushioning and features such as adjustable incline, heart rate monitoring and structured workout programmes. Their larger belts also make them far better suited to regular running.
The trade-off is space. If your goal is simply to increase your daily step count or stay active while working from home, a walking pad is usually the more practical choice. But for race training or more serious fitness goals, a conventional treadmill remains the better investment.
For more: The best exercise bikes – tested The best running watches to hit your fitness goals The best cross trainers
Leon Poultney has been traversing the worlds of consumer technology and automotive for some of the biggest lifestyle websites and magazines for longer than he cares to divulge. A lifelong fitness enthusiast, he can often be found trying not to injure himself on a mountain bike/surfboard/other extreme thing, often at the request of an editor. Whether it is getting to know the latest connected kettlebells or partaking in CrossFit sessions, Leon is always willing to put his body on the line for great editorial
