The transition to working from home was, for many of us, a welcome change. The commute vanished, the dress code relaxed, and the coffee was always just right. But a subtle, creeping problem began to emerge: the sheer lack of movement. My days became a blur of sitting—at my desk, on the sofa, back at my desk. My step count, once respectable from walking to the station and around a bustling office, plummeted. Aches and stiffness became my new colleagues, and the afternoon energy slump felt more like a cliff dive. This sedentary reality isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s a genuine health concern. I knew I needed a solution that could seamlessly integrate into my workday, one that didn’t require a dedicated home gym or a massive lifestyle overhaul. I needed to reclaim my steps without sacrificing productivity, and that’s what led me to explore the world of under-desk treadmills.
- [Superun-Excel in Fitness] Superun's 3 years of R&D revolutionized walking pad with new chips and APP, connecting them to High-tech wearable device. With the best AI trainers and the largest online...
- [Advanced 2.5HP Motor Technology] The under desk treadmill is equipped with quiet 2.5HP motor.Consistent and smooth operation while supporting up to 136kg.Precision-crafted materials provide quiet...
What to Look for Before Buying an Under-Desk Treadmill
An under-desk treadmill, or walking pad, is more than just a piece of exercise equipment; it’s a key solution for breaking the cycle of a sedentary lifestyle. It empowers you to introduce low-impact, consistent movement into your daily routine, especially when you’re tied to a desk for hours on end. The benefits are profound: improved circulation, increased calorie burn, enhanced focus, and a significant boost in your daily step count. By turning passive time into active time, these machines help combat the physical and mental fatigue that comes from prolonged sitting, making them a transformative tool for modern professionals, students, and anyone looking to stay active indoors.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenges of a desk-bound job, whether at home or in an office. It’s perfect for the remote worker looking to hit their 10,000 steps between meetings, the student wanting to stay active during long study sessions, or individuals with limited mobility who need a safe and convenient way to walk indoors. However, it might not be suitable for those who are serious runners or training for a marathon. A walking pad’s primary function is walking, with top speeds typically around 4-6 km/h. If high-intensity interval training or long-distance running is your goal, a traditional, full-sized treadmill with a higher top speed and incline features would be a better alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: This is paramount for an under-desk unit. Measure the clearance under your standing desk and identify a storage spot (like under a bed or sofa). The Superun Walking Pad 2.5HP Under Desk Treadmill boasts a slim profile of just 11 cm in height, making it exceptionally easy to slide away when not in use. Always double-check the product’s length and width to ensure it fits your designated space comfortably.
- Capacity/Performance: Look at the motor’s horsepower (HP), the maximum user weight, and the speed range. A motor of 2.0HP or higher, like the 2.5HP motor in this model, ensures smooth and quiet operation. The 136kg maximum weight recommendation speaks to a sturdy build, and a speed range of 1-4 kmph is the sweet spot for walking while typing or concentrating on tasks.
- Materials & Durability: The frame material is a key indicator of longevity. An alloy steel frame, as used in the Superun walking pad, provides excellent stability and durability, preventing wobbling or creaking during use. The quality of the walking belt is also crucial; multi-layer belts offer better grip and cushioning, contributing to both safety and comfort.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: The best walking pads are ready to go straight out of the box. Look for models that require no assembly, like this one. Features like a remote control, intuitive app integration, and built-in wheels for transport add significant convenience. Also, be aware of long-term care; most walking pads require periodic lubrication of the belt, so it’s a bonus when silicone oil and adjustment tools are included.
While the Superun Walking Pad 2.5HP Under Desk Treadmill is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
Our Definitive 2024 Guide to the Best Walking Pads in the UK
- 3.5-inch LCD Display: The 3.5-inch LCD controlled folding treadmill clearly displays time, distance, calories burned and speed, allowing you to easily monitor your progress during exercise. The...
- 5-IN-1 TREADMILL: The FOUSAE treadmill is specially designed for home gym. The speed range of 1-12 km/h (0.6-7.5 MPH), It is suitable for work at 1-3 km/h(0.6-1.5 MPH), for walking at 2.5-5 km/h(1.5-3...
- Powerful motor design: Experience smooth, quiet home workouts with our advanced 2.5HP motor, engineered to minimise noise and vibration. This walking pad supports users up to 120kg while ensuring zero...
First Impressions: Unboxing the Superun Walking Pad
The arrival of the Superun Walking Pad 2.5HP Under Desk Treadmill was met with a mix of excitement and apprehension. My main worry, shared by many, was the setup. To my immense relief, my fears were unfounded. The packaging was robust and secure—as one user noted, it took a good 10 minutes just to get it fully open, which I see as a positive sign of a well-protected product. Once freed from its cardboard shell, the “assembly” was non-existent. It’s a true plug-and-play device. We simply took it out, plugged it in, and it was ready to go.
The aesthetic, a stylish Rose Gold, immediately felt more like a piece of modern tech than bulky gym equipment. Its slim, compact design (98 x 52 x 11 cm) looked sleek and unobtrusive in my home office. It felt substantial and well-built, with an alloy steel frame that inspired confidence. The initial setup of the app was just as seamless; a quick scan of a QR code led to the PitPad app download, and within minutes, we were connected and exploring the controls. The included remote, with its handy wrist strap, is a thoughtful touch for those who prefer tactile control over using a phone. Our first impression was overwhelmingly positive: this is a premium-feeling machine designed for maximum convenience.
What We Like
- Requires zero assembly; ready to use straight out of the box.
- The 2.5HP motor is remarkably smooth and quiet during operation.
- Integrated app offers engaging training courses and unique multiplayer races.
- Excellent shock absorption from the 5-layer belt is gentle on the joints.
- Sturdy alloy steel frame supports up to 136kg.
Limitations
- The unit is not foldable, which may affect storage for some users.
- Maximum speed of 4 kmph is strictly for walking, not suitable for jogging or running.
In-Depth Performance Analysis: Putting the Superun Walking Pad to the Test
A great first impression is one thing, but consistent, reliable performance is what truly matters. Over several weeks, we integrated the Superun Walking Pad 2.5HP Under Desk Treadmill into our daily work routine, using it for hours at a time under a standing desk. We pushed its features, tested its limits, and scrutinised its performance to see if it lived up to its promises. Here’s our detailed breakdown of how it performed.
Seamless Setup and Everyday Usability
The “plug and play” promise is one hundred percent accurate. The most challenging part of the setup was, as mentioned, simply unboxing it. Once it’s on the floor, you plug it in, pull the battery tab on the remote, and you’re off. This immediate gratification is a huge selling point for anyone tired of products that come with confusing manuals and a bag full of bolts. We found this experience mirrored in numerous user reports, with one person stating, “I just took it out of the box, plugged it in, scanned the NFC code, downloaded the app, and it was ready to go.”
Manoeuvrability is another key aspect of usability. While the machine has a solid weight of 16.8kg, which contributes to its stability, the built-in wheels at the front make it surprisingly easy to move. By lifting the back end, we could effortlessly roll it under the desk for a walking session or slide it under the sofa for storage. The remote control is simple and intuitive, with clear buttons for power, speed up, and speed down. The silicone wrist strap is a small but brilliant design choice, preventing the remote from being dropped or misplaced mid-stride. For those who prefer a more integrated experience, the app offers full control and a wealth of data. The sheer ease of getting started and putting it away makes you far more likely to use it every day, turning a good intention into a consistent habit. The value this simplicity adds cannot be overstated, and you can see its full feature set and user reviews to confirm just how easy it is to integrate into your life.
The Heart of the Machine: Motor Performance and Noise Levels
The motor is the soul of any treadmill, and the 2.5HP unit in the Superun Walking Pad 2.5HP Under Desk Treadmill is a silent workhorse. During our testing, we were consistently impressed by how quiet it was. At a slow walking pace of 2-3 kmph—the ideal speed for typing and working—it produces a gentle, low hum that quickly fades into the background. This was confirmed by multiple users, one of whom said the motor “runs smoothly and is surprisingly quiet, which is great for early morning or late-night workouts without disturbing anyone.” Another reported “no great complaints from wife and kids who are in room beneath me.”
This low noise profile is critical for its intended use. You can walk through meetings, take calls, and work without the machine’s sound being a distraction to you or others. However, there is a small caveat worth noting. One user mentioned it was “a little loud to walk whilst on calls.” In our experience, the sound of your footsteps and the motor might be picked up by sensitive microphones on a video call. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s a point of awareness. The motor itself delivers a very smooth and consistent pace, with no jerking or stuttering when adjusting speeds. The power feels more than adequate for its 1-4 kmph range, ensuring the belt moves steadily underfoot, even for users approaching the 136kg weight limit. For its core purpose of under-desk walking, the motor performance is exceptional.
Comfort and Safety: A Closer Look at the Walking Deck
Long sessions on a walking pad are only possible if the experience is comfortable and feels safe. Superun has clearly invested in the walking deck, and it pays off. The belt is constructed with five non-slip layers and is mounted on a series of shock absorbers. This isn’t just marketing jargon; we could physically feel the difference. The deck has a noticeable but firm give with each step, which effectively dampens the impact on the joints. One user perfectly captured this, noting the “running belt has good cushioning, which makes it much easier on the knees compared to harder surfaces.” For anyone with hip, knee, or ankle concerns, this feature is a game-changer, transforming a potentially jarring activity into a comfortable, low-impact exercise.
The stability of the machine is equally impressive, thanks to the robust alloy steel frame. There was absolutely no sense of wobble or instability, even when shifting weight. This solid foundation is crucial for user confidence, allowing you to focus on your work rather than on your balance. The non-slip surface of the belt provided excellent traction with various types of footwear, from trainers to slippers. The only minor issue we encountered, which was also flagged by a user, is that the belt can sometimes drift slightly to one side after many hours of use. Thankfully, the included tool and clear instructions make re-centering the belt a simple, two-minute fix. This small maintenance task is a minor trade-off for the outstanding comfort and stability this walking pad provides, making it a feature that really sets it apart in the market.
Beyond Just Walking: The Superun App and Smart Features
What truly elevates the Superun Walking Pad 2.5HP Under Desk Treadmill from a simple machine to a smart fitness tool is its app integration. The “PitPad” app (as identified by users) connects via Bluetooth and unlocks a new dimension of motivation. It tracks all the essential metrics—time, distance, speed, calories—and keeps a log of your progress over time. But it goes further by offering professional training courses and AI-guided workouts, adding structure to your walks.
The most unique feature, however, is the social and competitive element. The app allows you to participate in multiplayer online races, pitting your progress against other users from around the world. This gamification is a powerful motivator. As one user expressed, “I can download the app to do some competitions with other people,” which they found “very worthy.” This turns a mundane walk into an engaging challenge. While the app is feature-rich, it’s not perfect. We did notice, as one reviewer pointed out, that running it for extended periods “just kills my phone battery.” This is a fair criticism. However, the beauty of the Superun design is its flexibility. If you don’t want to use the app, the simple, effective remote control works perfectly well on its own. This dual-control system ensures the machine caters to both the tech-savvy user who loves data and competition, and the user who just wants to press a button and start walking.
What Other Users Are Saying
After our own extensive testing, we dug into broader customer feedback to see how our experience aligned with others. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive. A common thread is the appreciation for its “game-changer” status in a work-from-home environment. One user shared that it has been revolutionary for her husband, who spends 10-12 hours at his computer, stating it “is comfortable to slowly walk and move for hours” and has helped with his back pain. Another highlighted its value for staying active during the winter months, saying, “it gets me up every morning and it’s affordable.”
The praise for its quiet operation and sturdiness is almost universal. Many, like us, were impressed that a machine so compact could feel so stable. One person, six weeks into using it, commented that it was “holding up fine” after logging thousands of steps three days a week.
On the constructive side, the most frequent point of feedback is that the belt can occasionally require realignment. One detailed review mentioned, “The one issue – the belt seems to want to move to the left,” but also noted that the included tool makes it easy to fix. The other minor critique, echoed in our own findings, is that the sound, while quiet to others in the house, can be noticeable on work calls. These minor points, however, seem to be far outweighed by the profound benefits users are experiencing in their daily routines.
How Does the Superun Walking Pad Compare to the Competition?
The Superun Walking Pad 2.5HP Under Desk Treadmill excels in its niche, but the market offers alternatives with different strengths. Understanding these differences is key to finding the perfect fit for your specific needs. We’ve compared it to three other popular models to help you make an informed decision.
1. Mobvoi Treadmill SE 3-in-1 Folding Walking Pad
- TicSports App: AI-Powered Treadmill Coaching. Get personalized daily plans, real-time metrics, and instant AI coaching feedback — all synced live to help you train smarter and stay motivated.
- FOLDABLE & PORTABLE DESIGN: Easily fold it into a flat, portable pad and move it around effortlessly with built-in wheels. Adjust between an invigorating run (1-12 km/h) and a comfortable walk (1-6...
The Mobvoi Treadmill SE offers greater versatility. As a “3-in-1” device, it functions as an under-desk walking pad, a jogging machine, and a light running treadmill, thanks to its higher maximum speed of 12 km/h. Its key advantage is its folding design, which is a major space-saver for those in smaller apartments. However, this versatility comes with a lower maximum weight capacity of 120kg compared to the Superun’s 136kg. This model is ideal for users who want a single machine for both work-walking and more intense cardio sessions and who prioritize a foldable design above all else.
2. UMAY Folding Treadmill 3.0HP Quiet
- [Handle Heart Rate Monitoring] The folding treadmill is equipped with a dedicated handle heart rate monitoring function, which measures your heart rate in real time, ensuring that you exercise within...
- [High-Performance Brushless Motor] This walking pad foldable uses advanced brushless motor technology, ensuring smooth operation with low noise, so your workout won't be interrupted. Enjoy an...
The UMAY treadmill is a step up in terms of power and features. With a more powerful 3.0HP brushless motor and a top speed of 14 km/h, it’s geared more towards joggers and runners. It includes features not found on the Superun, such as a built-in heart rate sensor and a dual cushion system for enhanced shock absorption. While it is also a folding treadmill, its design is more substantial and less of a slim “pad.” This is the better choice for a user who wants a dedicated home exercise machine that can handle serious running but can still be folded away, and who values performance metrics like heart rate.
3. Electric Folding Treadmill 16 km/h
- 【2 in 1 Electric Treadmill】The foldable home treadmill has 12 preset programs that provide multiple training modes. It can be used as a walking mat at a speed of 1-8 km/h or as a running machine...
- 【Dual LED Display and Intelligent App Support】The dual LED display clearly shows time, speed, calories, distance and heart rate, capturing your real-time training status. You can hold the metal...
This model represents a more traditional, high-performance home treadmill. Its standout feature is the impressive 16 km/h top speed, making it suitable for serious runners. It also comes equipped with 12 pre-set workout programs, offering more structured training options than the Superun’s app-based courses. Like the UMAY, it includes a heart rate monitor and has a more complex console. This treadmill is for the fitness enthusiast who prioritizes speed, programmed workouts, and detailed performance tracking over the simple, under-desk convenience of a walking pad.
Final Verdict: Is the Superun Walking Pad 2.5HP Under Desk Treadmill a Worthy Investment?
After weeks of rigorous testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the Superun Walking Pad 2.5HP Under Desk Treadmill is an outstanding machine that absolutely delivers on its promise. It is the perfect solution for its intended audience—the remote worker, the diligent student, or anyone looking to combat the health risks of a sedentary lifestyle without dedicating extra time or space to exercise. Its combination of a whisper-quiet motor, robust construction, excellent joint-friendly cushioning, and an engaging app makes it a leader in the under-desk category.
While it won’t satisfy a marathon runner with its 4 kmph speed limit, it was never designed to. Its purpose is to make movement accessible and effortless during your daily routine, and it achieves this brilliantly. The zero-assembly setup and easy storage cement its place as a supremely convenient tool for better health. If you’re ready to transform your static workday into an active one and reclaim thousands of steps a day, this walking pad is not just a worthy investment; it’s a genuine game-changer. We wholeheartedly recommend it. You can check the latest price and availability to start your fitness journey today.
Last update on 2025-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API