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Exercise multitasking is becoming popular as the time available for the gym and outdoor exercise continues to become harder to find in our busy days. So if you’re sitting for a large part of your day, you can use an under desk elliptical peddler or under desk bike.
We’ve spent a few weeks testing out countless products to bring you the best under desk elliptical machines and bikes on the market today. Let’s get pedaling. Also see our breakdown of selection criteria in Buying Guide for Under Desk Exercisers.
Best Under Desk Ellipticals & Bikes
| Stamina In-Motion Elliptical Trainer | DeskCycle Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser | Cubii Pro Under Desk Elliptical | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | |||
| Resistance | Knob controls resistance | 8 magnetic resistance positions | 8 resistance levels |
| Weight | 24 lbs. | 24 lbs. | 27 lbs. |
| Display | Strides per minute, total strides, exercise time, calories burned | Speed, distance, calories burned, and scan | Calories burned, goals, strides, miles, minutes, RPM, and much more |
| Customer Ratings | 4.6 / 5.0 Stars | 4.6 / 5.0 Stars | 3.9 / 5.0 Stars |
Also see: Under Desk Ellipticals & Bikes Comparison Table
Quick Answer: The 7 Best-Rated Under Desk Ellipticals & Bikes – [2020]
- Stamina In-Motion Elliptical Trainer
- DeskCycle Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser
- Cubii Pro Under Desk Elliptical
- FitDesk Cycle Under Desk Cycle
- Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike
- FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical
- Cubii Jr Desk Elliptical
Under Desk Ellipticals & Bikes Reviews
#1- Stamina In-Motion Elliptical Trainer
As some of the best under desk exercise equipment, you can expect the Stamina In-Motion Elliptical Trainer to help you burn calories with ease.
If you’re looking for an excellent alternative to your standard elliptical, then the Stamina may just be the one for you. The compact machine is perfect if you’re going to be bringing it to and from the office regularly, weighing just 24 pounds.
Sure, it’s going to spend a good amount of time under your desk, but the In-Motion looks pretty stylish, too. Coming in Silver, Green, or Orange, it won’t be an eyesore if you use it while watching TV or in other open areas.
The steel construction means you’ll have it for quite a while without worrying about it failing you.
Expand To See More It’s also one of the most versatile under desk cycles, letting you choose how you want to use it: sitting, standing, forward, or reverse. This also allows you to target different muscles to get a more well-rounded workout. To make pedaling more difficult or easy, you can simply twist the tension knob which is notably quiet – perfect for office use. Due to the textured pedals, you can pedal as fast as you’d like without worrying about your feet slipping and sliding around, too. The multi-function monitor makes it easy to track your workout stats, even coming with a scan function so you can check out your past results as you please.
#2- DeskCycle Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser
If you read through under desk elliptical reviews, you’ll consistently find the DeskCycle Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser to be ranked either at or towards the top.
It’s also named as “Amazon’s Choice”, unsurprisingly. Offering the lowest pedal height available at a mere 10 inches, this model works with desks as low as just 27 inches!
The first time you use the DeskCycle, you’ll be able to tell a difference between its performance and that of lower-quality machines.
Coming with a balanced flywheel with a twin belt drive, it’s practically unmatched, offering a smooth and whisper-quiet experience.
Expand To See More With an 8-position magnetic resistance, you’ll be able to amplify your workout, changing up routines so your body and your mind don’t get bored. The included display meter makes it easy to see where you’re at in your workout (like speed, distance, calories burned, and scan), and can be mounted on the cycle or even placed on your desk to avoid neck pain and give added convenience. A no-reach foot shifter only adds to the user-friendliness, allowing you to adjust resistance without leaning over. With large pedals, you will be able to place your feet exactly where you want them without worrying about them moving around. They’re actually some of the more comfortable to use, perfect for just resting your feet when you’re taking a break.
#3- Cubii Pro Under Desk Elliptical
Featured in TIME Magazine’s “Favorite Gifts of 2017” it’s no wonder that this desk peddler is a crowd favorite.
Coming with unprecedented features and cutting-edge technology never before seen in other models, if you’re a tech fiend or just love convenience, the Cubii Pro Under Desk Elliptical is the one for you.
The under desk elliptical is Bluetooth-enabled, allowing you to sync it with Fitbit, Apple HealthKit, iPhone, Androids, and more. This means that you can easily track your workout progress, health stats, as well as your fitness goals with ease.
In fact, if you’re looking to lose weight or really improve your health, we can’t recommend this under desk bike enough.
You’ll even be able to join groups and compete with other Cubii users around the globe thanks to their unique platform, which is perfect for more competitive users!
Expand To See More The comfort level here is hard to beat, complete with patented elliptical angles which provide you with an ergonomic, natural position from start to finish. The durable construction is made to hold up to regular use, while only weighing 27 pounds, making it easy to transport. Whisper-quiet operation is ideal in office settings, too. So, what’s not to love about this compact elliptical?
#4- FitDesk Cycle Under Desk Cycle
As you can imagine, the FitDesk Cycle Under Desk Cycle draws quite a few similarities between the other FitDesk model (#2).
Both are made with high-quality components and offer superior performance, but it’s important to note the differences, too.
Much like the other, the Under Desk Cycle comes with a whopping 8 calibrated resistance levels, which is perfect if you’re really serious about improving your health and endurance.
It gives you enough variety to be able to constantly change up your fitness routines, all from the comfort of your desk. The convenient foot shifter allows you to change up the tension without even bending over!
Expand To See More The FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical also weighs a mere 24 pounds, and though that makes it relatively lightweight and easy to carry, it’s not the smallest model out there. You can use it just like with the other model: with desks all the way down to just 27 inches if you stand at 5’8” or less. As it features whisper-quiet operation, it’s ideal for workplace settings, thanks to the balanced flywheel and twin belt drive! To track your progress, take a look at the handy display meter which can be mounted to the cycle itself of placed on your desk for easy viewing. You can track time, speed, current distance, lifetime distance, calories burned, or scan.
#5- Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike
Are you looking for one of the best desk peddlers on the market today, but are on a budget? Then check out the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike.
The model looks quite a bit different from the others, coming in a dark gray compact design. It’s also one of the most portable, weighing in at just 21 pounds!
Despite being so affordable, the Sunny Health & Fitness bike is perfect for customizing and switching up your workouts on a regular basis.
Oversized, textured safety pedal straps ensure your feet are kept in place, while also allowing you to pedal forwards or backwards to work different muscles.
You can even use them with your hands for an upper body workout! Just place it on top of a desk or table.
Expand To See More Easily adjust the resistance level with the 8-level micro-tension controller, making it more intense as you get in better shape. The magnetic system makes it ultra-reliable, so you can have it for years of consistent use. The AA-powered LCD screen will give you calories burned, ODM, time, speed, as well as distance so you can easily and quickly see where you are.
#6- FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical
We’re back yet again with another FitDesk model: this time with the Under Desk Elliptical. It has many similarities with the other FitDesk on our guide, though it’s important to take a look at the differences as well to determine which is ideal for your fitness needs.
Weighing in at 30 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than most on our guide, but not enough to make much of a difference in terms of portability while also adding to its sturdiness on the office floor.
Utilizing a fluid and natural movement previously found only in standard-size elliptical machines, you can pedal either backwards or forwards with confidence.
Expand To See More The smooth motion due to the heavy flywheel is ideal for using at the office, making sure your knees don’t hit the underside of your desk. As the lowest pedal rotation height is just 8 inches, it works with desks 25 inches and higher, which is pretty substantial. The 8-position magnetic resistance is similar to a few other models on our guide, giving you a good amount of flexibility with your routines. The foot-shifter makes it easy to adjust with no need to use your hands. To tell where you are in your workout, the digital meter will help you out. The 6-function display comes with a desk stand to let you track without needing to strain your eyes or bend over.
#7- Cubii Jr Desk Elliptical
Last but certainly not least, we have the Cubii Jr Desk Elliptical is the perfect alternative if the Cubii Pro caught your eye but was a bit out of your price range.
It’s the perfect “meet-in-the-middle” design, offering a solid amount of features and performance but at a notably lower price.
Coming in either Silver or Turquoise, the model also looks quite trendy and modern, perfect for using under the desk or out in the open.
The scratch-resistant design is sure to keep its original good looks, even after consistent or daily use.
Expand To See More While it doesn’t come with the Bluetooth connectivity that the Pro does, it has just about everything else. The ergonomic design makes it natural and simple to use, strengthening your muscles and joints rather than irritating them. With 8 levels of resistance, you can increase at your own pace. Whisper-quiet operation combined with a smooth gliding motion make it ideal for office settings while also improving your posture and ensuring your spine is properly aligned. The built-in, user-friendly display monitor lets you easily track your calories burned, distance, RPM, and strides. The Pro does lack this display as it utilizes your smartphone to visually track these stats instead.
Under Desk Ellipticals & Bikes Comparison Table
| Price | Resistance | Weight | Display | Customer Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stamina In-Motion Elliptical Trainer | $119.99 | Knob controls resistance | 24 lbs. | Strides per minute, total strides, exercise time, calories burned | 4.6 / 5.0 Stars | |
| DeskCycle Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser | $149.00 | 8 magnetic resistance positions | 24 lbs. | Speed, distance, calories burned, and scan | 4.6 / 5.0 Stars | |
| Cubii Pro Under Desk Elliptical | $249.00 | 8 resistance levels | 27 lbs. | Calories burned, goals, strides, miles, minutes, RPM, and much more | 3.9 / 5.0 Stars | |
| FitDesk Cycle Under Desk Cycle | $169.99 | 8 magnetic resistance positions | 24 lbs. | Speed, distance, and calories burned | 3.7 / 5.0 Stars | |
| Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike | Price not available | 8 micro-tension controller levels | 21 lbs. | Time, Speed, Distance, ODM, and Calories | 4.5 / 5.0 Stars | |
| FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical | $199.99 | 8 calibrated resistance positions | 30 lbs. | Speed, distance, calories burned, and scan | 4.1 / 5.0 Stars | |
| Cubii Jr Desk Elliptical | $249.00 | 8 resistance levels | 36 lbs. | Time, Strides, Distance, RPM, and Calories | 4.6 / 5.0 Stars |
Buying Guide for Under Desk Exercisers
In our current society, the norm is being seated for the majority of our day. At work, at home, at school – being active isn’t always the easiest thing to do.
While there are gyms, sometimes time is limited or we have other commitments that makes going difficult. One of the best solutions? An under desk elliptical or bike.
Now that you’ve had the chance to read all about the best mini elliptical machines, have you decided which one is the one for you and your lifestyle?
If you’re still a bit unsure, there’s no need to worry. We understand things can get confusing when there are so many amazing options to choose from!
That’s why we’ve decided to take it upon ourselves to help you make the best decision. We’ve written up the comprehensive buying guide, below.
This guide will take you through each step of the selection process to ensure that by the time you’re done, there will be no doubt which is the one for you.
Portability
Let’s take a minute to look at your lifestyle. Where are you going to be using your new under desk elliptical? Are you looking for something to keep solely at the office?
Then portability isn’t going to be that much of a priority. However, if you’re going to be bringing it to the desk then hauling it back home every night or even every weekend, then this is something that you should think about.
Most of the models on our guide fall around 26 pounds, give or take a few.
In addition, think about the actual size of the machine. There are some, like the Cubii models, that are very compact, while a couple others on our guide are notably bulkier.
Durability
If you’re going to be using your under desk bike each time you go to the office, that’s quite regularly. That means that you need a machine that will be able to hold up to frequent use.
Take a look at how well-made the product is you have your eye on along with the materials used. When you move up in price, generally the quality also moves up, so keep that in mind when making your selection.
Performance
You’re looking for a new portable elliptical because you want a high-quality workout experience along with the convenience.
What’s not either of those things is a clunky, awkward machine that isn’t smooth, noisy, etc. However, there are various aspects that go into performance.
Quite possibly the biggest factor is whether or not the machine comes with a balanced flywheel.
A balanced flywheel is going to ensure a smooth movement from beginning to end, and allow you to move with force to give yourself a good workout. You also want it to be low impact on your joints.
Pedals
As the pedals are what makes contact with you to the machine, it’s one of the most crucial aspects of a good mini elliptical machine.
You don’t want your feet to be slipping around or slipping off the machine, as it can cause injury not to mention awkwardness. Look for large pedals that can comfortably hold your feet, with a textured surface to make sure they stay in place.
Those with straps help in this regard, too. If you can pedal both backwards and forwards, add extra points, as this will allow you to train different muscles.
Noise
We aren’t sure about your office, but most out there encourage a quiet, professional tone. The noise of your elliptical should be little to none, unless your office is already pretty noisy.
Even if it doesn’t bother other people, you may find yourself annoyed at extra noise which could discourage you from using your elliptical.
Height
It doesn’t matter how cool or modern your machine is if it doesn’t work with your body and your desk. We highly recommend figuring out how tall your desk is and how tall you are, if you aren’t already aware.
The vast majority of products are going to list the lowest desk height they’re compatible with, along with the height of the user.
Extra Features
As you can see, all of the models on our guide come with the “basics”, like comfortable pedals, portability, durability, adjustability, and so on.
However, there are certain products that take things to the next level due to technological advancements – particularly with the Cubii Pro.
This model comes with Bluetooth capabilities to sync to certain apps on your smartphone and allow you to compete with users around the globe while conveniently tracking your fitness goals.
Price
How much are you willing to spend on one of the best mini elliptical machines? This is smart to figure out before you start shopping as it can be easy to spend more than you’d originally intended on doing.
However, also know that when it comes to these models, when you move up in price you’re going to get a lot more in quality and technology.
Frequently Asked Questions About Under Desk Exercisers
Q: Why should I even use an under desk elliptical?
A: Everyone has slightly different motives, but it makes for an excellent way to burn extra calories and improve endurance while going through your regular workday.
In addition, you’ll see improved heart health, less joint pain, strengthened lower body, better posture, better mood, and more!
Q: How many calories can I realistically burn with an under desk elliptical?
A: There’s no “one” answer to this as there are so many variables involved.
We need to consider your current weight, height, body composition, current fitness level, the resistance level you have your elliptical set on, RPMs, and more.
However, it seems to be that the average amount of calories burned is around 150 per hour.
Q: Is it realistic to be able to transport my new exercise machine to-and-from the office and my home?
A: Absolutely, though you’ll need to consider your mode of transport and upper body strength. The vast majority of us are able to lift and carry 25-ish pounds without problem.
However, also take into consideration the size and shape of the elliptical to ensure you can fit it in your vehicle without issue.
Buying Tips
#1: Make sure to start out slow if you’re new to exercising.
You don’t want to pull a muscle or start to feel lightheaded when you’re at work, of all places. It’s important to start out on the lower resistance levels and work your way up only when you’re ready.
#2: Make sure your desk and chair are at the proper height for you to efficiently and correctly use your under desk elliptical bike.
While most of us already consider the height of our desk, make sure your chair allows you to adjust its height accordingly. You don’t want it to be too low nor too high as you won’t get as effective of results as you should.
#3: Make sure it comes with enough features to allow you to improve and not reach a plateau.
You want to make sure it comes with at least 4 or so resistance levels, though we really recommend opting for a model with around 8.
This will give you the time and flexibility you need to boost your fitness without your body becoming bored. There are some that even give you the option of pedaling with your hands, offering a full-body workout!
Summary
Now that you’ve had the chance to read just about everything you could ever want to know about the best space saver ellipticals on the market today, which one will you be using at your office?
If you’re still unsure, no that whichever one you decide on, you’ll be getting one of the best ever made. However, what’s most important is that you’ve selected the perfect product for you and your body.
We hope that our article has helped you to do exactly that. Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll see you again shortly!
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