Walking pads can help — but not all are worth it

Walking pads can be a practical way to add steps at home, especially for people working remotely or stuck indoors by bad weather. After testing two models, CNET’s fitness expert found they can be useful for light movement during the day, but the experience depends heavily on the machine’s speed, comfort, noise, and stability.

One surprise: these compact machines can go much faster than expected. The Egofit ComfortDesk-M2 reaches 5 mph, while the Costway model goes up to 6 mph — fast enough to feel more like jogging than casual walking. That also raises a safety concern, since under-desk treadmills typically don’t include handrails.

The Egofit ComfortDesk-M2 stood out as the better option of the two. CNET said it was easy to set up, simple to move thanks to front wheels, and relatively quiet. Its honeycomb comfort deck cushioning made walking easier on the knees, and its fixed 5% incline added some challenge. The treadmill also includes a remote control and an LED display showing speed, steps, time, distance, and calories burned.

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Its biggest drawback is the short tread belt. Even the reviewer, who described herself as short, said she sometimes had to watch her stride carefully. For taller users, that could be a real limitation. CNET also said jogging on a machine like this would be risky because there is nothing to hold onto if you lose your footing.

The Costway treadmill looked better aesthetically and had a longer belt, which may suit taller users. But CNET found the overall experience rougher. The belt was described as less smooth, the machine squeaked loudly, and it lacked the cushioning needed for longer walks. The reviewer also flagged how abruptly it stops, saying users need to brace themselves even as it slows down.

What to check before buying

CNET recommends focusing on a few basics before buying an under-desk treadmill:

• Size: Make sure it fits your space and can be stored easily
• Belt length: Taller users may need a longer deck
• Speed: Some models reach 6 mph, which may be more than expected
• Noise: Sound levels vary widely between models
• Features: Most include a remote, but displays and settings differ
• Safety: Lack of rails can make them a poor fit for anyone with balance issues

For people who just want to sneak in more movement during the day, CNET’s verdict is broadly positive. But if you want a more serious home workout machine, a full-size treadmill is still the safer and more capable choice.