These 5 Under-Desk Ellipticals Help You Move More During the Workday

The fitness and product experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Nutrition & Fitness Lab track sports and exercise equipment year-round, including exercise bikes, and rowing machines.

For this guide, we evaluated ellipticals using a mix of hands-on experience, expert input, and research. Good Housekeeping staffers tried a range of models in our offices, our editors conducted hands-on evaluations of select machines, and we included recommendations from physical therapist Wendy Winn, PT, OCS. Each elliptical was reviewed for factors such as setup, sturdiness, and overall usability, as well as features like built-in handles for portability, display monitors, adjustable resistance levels, and app connectivity.

To gauge longer-term performance, we analyzed verified online reviews to better understand durability and owner satisfaction over time. The ellipticals featured here stood out for their comfort, functionality, and performance in everyday use.

"Fitness isn't just about hitting the gym, it's about finding ways to keep moving, even when life gets busy," says NASM-Certified Personal Trainer and GH Fitness Director Stefani Sassos. "Under-desk ellipticals are a simple way to stay active during the workday, and choosing the right one can make all the difference." Before making your purchase, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the most out of your under-desk elliptical:

✔️ Size and weight: Measure the area under your desk to ensure your knees have enough clearance as you pedal. Keep in mind that some machines lift your knees slightly, so space is important for a full range of motion. If you plan to move the machine for upper-body workouts or store it when not in use, consider its weight since lighter machines are easier to transport, while heavier options tend to be more stable.

✔️ Features: Decide which features matter most to you. Do you want an LCD screen to track your stats, or handles for upper-body workouts? Non-slip bases, timers, and calorie counters can enhance your experience. "A machine is only as good as the features you’ll actually use," Sassos says. "Don’t get distracted by bells and whistles that don’t fit your goals."

✔️ Resistance: Machines vary in resistance options, from single-level to multiple adjustable settings. Consider how you want to adjust the intensity, whether manually via a knob or digitally.

✔️ Noise level: Think about where you’ll be using your elliptical. Some machines operate more quietly than others, which matters if you’re in a shared office or watching TV while pedaling. Smooth, quiet operation helps you stay consistent without distraction.

✔️ Durability and build quality: Look for a sturdy frame and reliable construction. Metal frames usually last longer than plastic, and a stable design prevents wobbling. A good warranty can also protect your investment.

Many under-desk bikes and ellipticals let you adjust the resistance manually, typically with a simple knob. This lets you adjust the effort required for each pedal stroke, which is great for tailoring your workout intensity throughout the day. Some ellipticals, however, are a bit more advanced, offering digital resistance controls or pre-programmed levels for a more customized experience.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal preference and goals. "Whether you're on an elliptical or a bike, the key is that you're moving consistently," Sassos says. "Some people prefer the natural gliding motion of elliptical pedals, while others like the fixed foot placement and stability of bike pedals. There's no right or wrong, it's about what feels comfortable and keeps you engaged."

Winn adds that biomechanically, there is a slight difference between how your foot sits on flat elliptical pedals versus smaller bike pedals with straps. "You might feel a different activation in your calves or quads depending on the pedal style," Winn explains. "But one isn't inherently better than the other; it really comes down to foot placement, comfort, and the features you prefer in your machine."

The most obvious difference between an under-desk elliptical and a treadmill is your position: with an elliptical, you're seated, whereas a treadmill requires standing and walking or running. "Both options get your body moving, burn calories, and increase blood flow while you work," explains Winn. "The intensity is really up to you and how you adjust the resistance, speed, or incline, so in many ways, they're comparable to their traditional full-size counterparts."

However, ellipticals have a key advantage: they're lower impact and more joint-friendly. "For anyone who experiences knee, hip, or ankle discomfort, an under-desk elliptical provides a way to stay active without the repetitive stress that comes from walking or jogging on a treadmill," Sassos says. The gliding motion reduces strain on your joints while still engaging your legs, core, and even your glutes if you maintain good posture.

This makes ellipticals a great option for longer sessions or frequent use throughout the workday. You can keep your body moving consistently without the fatigue or soreness that sometimes comes from standing or high-impact exercise, making it easier to stay active even on busy days.

Amy Schlinger is an NASM-certified personal trainer and journalist who has been in the health and fitness industry for over a decade. She's extremely passionate about leading an active lifestyle and inspiring others to do the same. Amy can often be found getting in daily cardio, strength training in the gym, and testing and writing about gear and equipment like under-desk treadmills, running shoes, leggings, and rowers.

Wendy Winn, PT, OCS, is a physical therapist board-certified in orthopedics and the owner and director of Custom Performance physical therapy in New York, NY. Winn has been a practicing therapist for over 13 years and has served as an expert contributor and educator for many fitness and running institutions.

Stefani Sassos, a NASM-certified personal trainer and Women's Fitness Specialist, has over 10 years of experience in the fitness industry, specializing in indoor cycling and strength training. At the Good Housekeeping Institute, she leverages her expertise to create informed fitness content, from testing exercise equipment and apps to curating workout plans. Stefani is passionate about leading an active lifestyle and inspiring others to do the same.