Table of Contents
Your Ultimate Guide to Under Desk Bikes
By now, many of us know that sitting for long periods every day in front of a desk can cause significant strain on our bodies. For those who can’t afford to move around while at their desk job, ergonomics has become more important than ever.
Luckily, there are plenty of available tools and equipment that promote movement and stand as a form of physical therapy. Under-desk cycles are examples of such products. Let’s take a quick look at the best under-desk bikes for you.
By now, many of us know that sitting for long periods every day in front of a desk can cause significant strain on our bodies. For those who can’t afford to move around while at their desk job, ergonomics has become more important than ever.
Luckily, there are plenty of available tools and equipment that promote movement and stand as a form of physical therapy. Under-desk cycles are examples of such products. Let’s take a quick look at the best under-desk bikes for you.
Which is the top one?
Editor's Choice  Best Under-Desk Bike | Best Magnetic Mini Elliptical | Best Smart Mini Elliptical |
DeskCycle Desk Exercise Bike-Pedal ExerciserWith 8 resistance levels and magnetic resistance technology, this DeskCycle is the best for low-impact exercises while you're sitting at work. | Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Under-Desk Elliptical MachineSunny Health's mini elliptical is perfect for travel, thanks to its handle and compact size. It comes with various magnetic resistance settings. | Cubii Pro Under-Desk EllipticalKeeping track of your fitness is easy with the Cubii Pro! This exerciser can be synced with a fitness app to help you reach your exercise goals. |
Functionality: Quality: Price: | Functionality: Quality: Price: | Functionality: Quality: Price: |
Let’s go over each one
#1: DeskCycle Desk Exercise Bike-Pedal Exerciser
Functionality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Our pick for the best pedal exerciser is none other than the Desk Cycle Pedal Exerciser. This model is highly popular because of its enhanced features and functions, such as multiple resistance levels, a big and bright LCD display to track progress, and a feature to make the pedals quiet. Available in white, this product weighs in at 23 pounds and measures up at 24 x 20 x 10 inches.
A pedal exerciser can serve as a form of physical therapy, and the DeskCycle Under-Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser is just what you need if you’re worried about being stuck in front of a desk for too long. With its patented magnetic resistance mechanism, pedaling at your desk is easier and smoother than ever. It gives you just enough of a challenge to work your muscles without tiring you out too much.
This under the desk bike also helps boost productivity by keeping movement in your lower limbs. Studies have shown that these constant motions are vital to keep your health in tip-top shape. If you’re worried about leg clearance, this desk cycle can work with a desk space that’s as low as 27 inches. This product ranks #17 in the Amazon Exercise Bikes category.
Pros and Cons of the Desk Cycle Desk Exercise Bike-Pedal Exerciser
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Eight levels of resistance ✔️ Resistance uses a magnetic mechanism ✔️ LCD display shows time, speed, distance, calories used/burned | ✖️ Some models can be loud ✖️ Might be complicated to assemble |
#2: Sunny Health & Fitness Fully Assembled Magnetic Under Desk/Standup Elliptical Machine
Functionality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
If you’re looking for a magnetic elliptical that’s also relatively affordable, the Sunny Under Desk Elliptical is your go-to. Available on Amazon, the SF-E3872 comes with full-fledged features for making your work-at-home or office life easier, more active, and a lot more productive. The compact size makes it easy to transport just about anywhere, and it weighs only 24.2 lbs.
If you’re also concerned about your health and want to track the progress you make, be it calories burned, distance traveled, and speed, this elliptical has an LCD monitor that shows you important statistics. You can say goodbye to the sedentary lifestyle with this machine, and with the help of the digital monitor, you’ll be able to keep track of workout milestones. The greatest part is you won’t even have to leave your desk to get a healthy lower-body workout.
One hassle with desk ellipticals or desk bikes is their assembly. Not everyone has the time to put together a complicated piece of equipment, and many would rather have their appliances pre-assembled when possible. This Sunny Health under the desk bike model, thankfully, is pretty easy to assemble and doesn’t take more than one person to put together, so you will be able to use it right away.
Pros and Cons of the Sunny Health & Fitness Elliptical
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Has a wide range of motion ✔️ It’s easy to assemble and easy to use ✔️ Eight levels of resistance ✔️ Compact size for easy transportation ✔️ Uses two AA batteries to work | ✖️ Some models develop a noise after few weeks of use |
#3: Cubii Pro Under-Desk Elliptical
Functionality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Think under desk ellipticals aren’t for you? This model might change your mind. Another pick for the best under-desk elliptical, Cubii Pro has come up with a model that’s hard to resist. It’s one of the more advanced appliances in our lineup, which is why we’ve named it our best smart under-desk machine. Its edge over the other models? The Cubii Pro Seated Under-Desk Elliptical comes with a bluetooth sync for your devices, including Fitbit and Apple watch, as well as a phone app, making tracking data over time easy.
Perfect for fitness junkies who lament sitting still at a desk all day, this under-desk elliptical not only helps you stay active but also keeps track of your fitness goals. All you have to do is connect this device to your Fitbit or download the app (available on both the iPhone app store and android Play Store), and you’ll be able to see your distance, calories spent, etc. If you’re conscious about weight gain while sitting for long periods of time, the Cubii Pro can burn up to 125 calories in just an hour.
This isn’t just for work, either. When you’re unwinding, try to use this machine while watching your favorite shows or reading a good book. It comes with whisper-quiet technology, so there are no squeaking sounds to distract you from immersing in your favorite Netflix series while getting exercise at the same time.
Pros and Cons of the Cubii Pro Under-Desk Elliptical
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Has bluetooth sync for Fitbit and other fitness bands to ✔️ Syncs with Fitbit app or Apple Health app ✔️ Burns 125 calories in just an hour ✔️ Quiet and doesn’t disturb work or relaxation ✔️ Portable | ✖️ Expensive |
#4: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-B0418 Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike
Functionality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Sunny Health appears again on our list, this time with a more budget-friendly under-desk bike, the SF-B0418. We picked this as our best budget mini pedal because there’s tons to love about this product, from its adjustable safety straps on the pedals to its durable weight support. It’s also a lot more lightweight than other models at only 21 lbs., making it easy to transport from your home office to your living room while watching TV.
This product is designed not only to work out your feet but your hands, too, giving you a good upper body workout. Use this as an ergonomic device that keeps your hands moving. Simply dust off the foot pedals and place your hands where your feet usually go and start moving them in a circular motion. This helps keep the blood flowing in your upper limbs from when they’re too tired typing all day or preparing meals in the kitchen.
The Sunny Health SF-B0418 Magnetic Mini Exercise Pedal is also able to track your distance covered, speed, and time spent on the device. The LCD display shows your progress after each run so you won’t have to guess how many calories you’ve burned or miles you’ve covered. One downside of this product is its less than sturdy bottom surface which could be prone to slipping, so be careful.
Pros and Cons of the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Under-Desk Bike
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Affordable Adjustable pedals with safety straps ✔️ LCD display ✔️ Can support users of up to 220 lbs. ✔️ Can also be used for arm exercises ✔️ Has a carry handle | ✖️ Bottom surface is not slip-resistant ✖️ Pedals can wear down after long use |
#5: DeskCycle 2 Under-Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser
Functionality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
The DeskCycle 2 is an upgrade from its predecessor, making it a little pricier. As for its features and functions, it still comes with 8 resistance settings so you’re able to ease into exercising without tiring yourself out on the first try. Once you’ve gotten the hang of the bike, you can increase resistance and give yourself more of a challenge.
You can use this device anywhere, from your home office to your room while you’re reading a book or watching TV. It’s portable enough (although a tiny bit heavier than the previous Desk Cycle offering) for easy, effortless transport. You can also use this on different surfaces because it has an adjustable height.
Its magnetic resistance gives you enough of a challenge to get your muscles pumping without making a loud noise or giving you a jerky, bumpy motion. It’s smooth and easy to operate so you aren’t even thinking too much about your legs moving.
Pros and Cons of the DeskCycle 2 Under-Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Comes with 8 resistance settings ✔️ Works well even with a low table height ✔️ Can also be used for upper-body workouts ✔️ Adjustable pedal height ✔️ Magnetic mechanism technology | ✖️ Pricier than other models |
#6: MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser
Functionality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
One of the best under-desk bikes in the market, the MagneTrainer mini stationary bike comes packed with features and functions that haven’t been seen before in other models. With more than 20 resistance options for each workout level, you’re getting all types of exercises to meet your different needs. Let’s take a closer look at this model’s features and functions to understand why it’s such a well-loved product.
Customizable workouts are this bike’s premium offering. With different resistance levels aimed for different kinds of exercise levels, you’re able to switch it up with ease. Levels 1-5 are recommended for a warm-up as well as a cool-down, while levels 6-10 are built for light cardio and therapy. If you need a bit of endurance training to enhance your day, levels 11-15 are for you. Lastly, for toning those leg muscles, simply up the intensity to resistance levels 16-20 and you’ll be able to get shapely legs in no time!
No matter what level you’re at, the MagneTrainer-ER stays extremely quiet. It also has adjustable Velcro straps to accommodate any and every foot size so you won’t have to worry about your feet sliding off or the straps being too tight. Made with alloy steel, the 15-inch base is also fit for a wide range of footprint sizes. However, product reviews on Amazon show the base may not be as slip-resistant as one would like, so users are cautioned to be extra careful.
Pros and Cons of the MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ 20+ resistance settings ✔️ Sturdy steel base ✔️ 15-inch base to accommodate different size footprints ✔️ LCD monitor shows progress | ✖️ Pricier than other models ✖️ Non-slip base not very effective |
#7: Stamina In-Motion Elliptical Trainer
Functionality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
The Stamina-In Motion Elliptical Trainer is a great mini-elliptical for those who need to burn calories or simply get some rehabilitation for their lower body. Once fully assembled, you can use the Stamina Elliptical either sitting or standing, depending on your workout needs. It can be a great passive workout done while watching a movie or gaming, while it can also be part of a higher resistance exercise regimen.
This is one of our picks for the best under-desk elliptical because it comes with a few unique features, such as three different color options (green, orange, and silver), adjustable tension knob, and a pedal that can move both forward and backward. You can adjust the resistance via the adjustable dial. To view your progress and stats, simply take a quick look at the monitor.
Pros and Cons of the Stamina In-Motion Elliptical Trainer
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Three color choices ✔️ Adjustable tension knob ✔️ Can be used to pedal forward or reverse | ✖️ Pricier than other models ✖️ Non-slip base not very effective |
#8: Cubii Jr. Desk Elliptical W/ Built-in Display Monitor
Functionality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Looking for an exercise machine that can fit right into your smartphone-synced health and wellness ecosystem? The Cubii Jr. Under Desk Elliptical has an ergonomic design that’s specifically built for a low-impact workout. This model promotes active sitting, because you’re able to get movement into your legs even when you’re working.
This elliptical is compact. With dimensions of 23.15 x 17.56 x 10 inches, you can transport it to any part of your home with ease, from your bedroom to your living room. It’s also a sturdy option and can accommodate a user weight of up to 250 lbs. It’s easy to move in and out of your standing desk, so you won’t have to worry about the hassle of moving your office chair away and then leaning down to get your under-desk elliptical.
While it’s designed for low-impact exercises, this device can double as a high-resistance workout tool. Simply switch from one of its eight resistance settings to another and you’ll be able to customize your workout as you see fit. Not only that, the device is made with whisper-quiet technology, so you can perform hobbies like reading and gaming without disturbance.
Pros and Cons of the Cubii Jr. Desk Elliptical
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Quiet and smooth movement ✔️ Lightweight and portable ✔️ Eight adjustable resistance options ✔️ Has a built-in monitor | ✖️ Can be expensive |
#9: FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical
Functionality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
One under-desk elliptical that’s sure to give you relaxation and comfort is this FitDesk offering. With its magnetic mechanism technology, you’ll be able to get a smoother, more effective exercise for your lower limbs. With its 8 different resistance options, you can go from a low-impact workout to a higher-intensity workout to burn more calories.
If you prefer under-desk ellipticals over a mini cycle or stationary bike, then you’re certainly looking at the right product. An elliptical makes sure your feet are more relaxed and planted firmly on its pedals. You can even try different foot positions with this model, such as tiptoed or in heels. The 6-function display of the FitDesk Under-Desk Elliptical machine shows a variety of menu settings for different types of use. However, it’s also worth noting that Amazon reviews show some versions of this product to develop a squeak over time, so it’s important to read the manual carefully in order to take the best care and avoid any unwanted issues.
Pros and Cons of the FitDesk Elliptical
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Low pedals work with any desk height ✔️ Includes magnetic mechanism ✔️ Comes with a 6-function electronic display w/ menu ✔️ Menu settings for different uses | ✖️ Comes in only 1 color ✖️ May develop a squeak |
#10: Vive Pedal Exerciser
Functionality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
While this is our best pick for a simple mini cycle, the Vive Pedal Exerciser still manages to incorporate many of the essential functions and features of a great ergonomic appliance. Coming in at 12.5 inches high, this is a compact exerciser that can fit even under a desk that has little clearance.
With its adjustable resistance levels, the Vive under-desk bike can help you build a customizable workout that adjusts to your different everyday needs. Simply switch the resistance up or down, depending on if you want a low-impact exercise while relaxing with a good book, or a moderate-intensity exercise for building muscle and toning the body.
The quiet and smooth cycling motion helps you move with ease. It helps boost your concentration at work, so you’re able to answer calls and process papers with full focus. The LCD screen also shows time, speed, distance, revolution count, and calories burned, so you can keep track of your progress over time.
Pros and Cons of the Vive Under-Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Easy, simple assembly ✔️ Tones muscles and improves concentration ✔️ Compact design fit for even low desks ✔️ Adjustable resistance | ✖️ Doesn’t work on carpeted surfaces ✖️ Straps are not adjustable ✖️ Instruction manual not easy to read |
#11: FitDesk 2.0 Exercise Bike
Functionality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Quality: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Price: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
This desk elliptical machine is quite unique from the other desk bikes in this guide. It’s not exactly an under-desk bike, and it isn’t really an on-top-of-your-desk elliptical. The FitDesk 2.0 Exercise Bike is basically a desk and an elliptical bike combined in one. That’s right, this workout machine can become both your entire workstation and exercise area.
It has its own desk attached on the top, while there are pedals at the bottom. In a way, you can still say that it fits the bill of an under-desk bike as the pedals are indeed right beneath the table attachment of the FitDesk 2.0. Admittedly, it is a pretty genius office-workout hybrid equipment.
The FitDesk 2.0 has a smooth magnetic resistance and pedal motion, as well as 8 calibrated resistance settings. It’s also equipped with resistance bands if you want to add more intensity and do a full-body workout. The sliding desk allows you to easily adjust your workstation and is able to accommodate a laptop of any size, tablet, documents, and the like. Additionally, the desk has a small storage drawer to store pens, a phone, and other small necessities.
The seat is sturdy and comfortable as well. It’s also designed to let you focus on their work as you pedal away. If you thought that you can’t stay fit while working in front of your laptop, then the FitDesk 2.0 Exercise Bike is here to prove you wrong.
Pros and Cons of the FitDesk 2.0 Exercise Bike
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Includes desk surface with slide ✔️ Lets one stay active while working ✔️ Non-slip surface ✔️ Premium design and build quality | ✖️ Not very portable ✖️ May develop a squeak |
What is an Under Desk Bike?
An under-desk bike is one of the many forms of desk cycles. It’s also called a pedal exerciser or a mini exercise bike. It is an independent appliance that can be placed underneath a regular desk or a standing desk and works in much of the same way as a regular bike, keeping our lower bodies moving. A mini exercise bike can help increase circulation and blood flow while we’re busy typing away on a keyboard at work.
Does Under-Desk Pedaling Work?
Absolutely. The physical health benefits of pedal exercisers have been proven time and again: they’re a great way to move part of your body without distracting you from your job, and they also don’t cost much. Pedaling with an under-desk bike can help become more active, reducing the risk of health issues such as muscle soreness, obesity, heart disease, and more.
The constant movement that mimics biking or walking is a great way to get in extra exercise while you aren’t in the position to actually go outside for a bike ride or a walk. You can also set the intensity of each workout, which is of great help. With a higher resistance level, you’ll be able to get fuller exercise.
Are Under-Desk Exercisers Good?
Keeping in shape should always be a priority, and many workers tend to underestimate the importance of moving even in small amounts while at their workstations. So are under-desk bikes worth it? We say yes.
Our feet can easily get stressed from staying stagnant too long, which can bring about soreness and stiffness in the legs, too. If you’re concerned about spending money, there are plenty of budget-friendly options in the market. Desk cycling is also one of the best ways to keep your energy levels up, your mind alert, and your workday productive.
What Should I Look For in an Under-Desk Bike?
With our different needs and living situations, there are plenty of factors to consider when picking the right mini bike. We’ve narrowed it down to a few key components:
Pedal Height
Since under-desk pedals will live under your desk, you’ll have less leg room underneath your table. Because of this, always make sure to check how much space you’ll need between the underside of the table and your knees so you don’t end up hurting your shins every time you start pedaling! The perfect pedal exerciser height should depend on the length of your legs as well as the height of your table. Both factors will vary from person to person.
Smoothness
When riding a bike, rough pedals can ruin the entire experience. They disturb the momentum and otherwise distract you from enjoying your ride. The same thing goes for under-desk pedal exercisers — you’ll need smooth, well-oiled pedals to get the most out of your exercise. Make sure your device runs smoothly and can stand long hours of pedaling without getting stuck.
Quietness
Imagine having a busy workday full of Zoom meetings to attend, unanswered emails to reply to, and documents to sign. You start to place your feet on your mini-cycle pedals, eager to get some relief and exercise to get the blood flowing in your feet again. But instead of the peaceful relaxation you’re trying to achieve, you’re met with the high-pitched sound of the pedals screeching. Not exactly conducive to working, right? This is why quietness plays a big factor when choosing the right pedal exerciser. You’d need a quiet under-desk bike in order to work without any distractions.
Adjustable Resistance
Under-desk bikes don’t work exactly the same way regular bikes do, because they aren’t meant for strenuous exercise. They’re a lot less intensive — you’re not likely to break a sweat while using them. However, that doesn’t mean your pedal exerciser shouldn’t have some level of tension in them, because that’s what keeps your energy going. It’s important that your under-table appliance comes with different resistance levels so you’re able to switch it up while working.
Portability
Nowadays, under-desk bikes are easily portable. Some can be folded up for easy storage and some are lightweight enough and have a carry handle to bring them around. If you like to work in different areas and are always on the go, you can opt for a lightweight, foldable under-desk bike to bring with you anytime, anywhere. A folding pedal exerciser can greatly increase the convenience of your machine and enhance transportability.
Which is better: an Elliptical or Under Desk Bike?
There are two kinds of under-desk bikes: desk ellipticals and mini-bikes. Both have the same function and usually come in the same weight and size. But if you want to know which one suits you better, then there are a few things to keep in mind. Let’s break down their key differences:
An under-desk elliptical doesn’t look like your regular bike. Instead, you’ll find it looks more similar to regular ellipticals you see at the gym. Desk ellipticals have a larger platform for your feet to rest on. Under-desk ellipticals also have a different stride and motion than under-desk exercise bikes because they let you move your feet forward and back, much like walking or going up the stairs. If you have larger-sized feet or have a low-height desk, then you could opt for an elliptical instead of a bike. With their flat platforms, you’re also able to target different muscles by trying different positions: flat-footed, tiptoed, and even in heels.
On the other hand, an under-desk bike looks like a regular, more portable bike. It involves moving your feet in a similar manner as that of riding a bicycle. If you have more clearance for your legs underneath the table, then you won’t have to worry about bumping your knees while you pedal. For that reason, we give the under-desk bike one point more than the elliptical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Standing desks are a great way to be active at work as they allow you to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day. If you want to continue moving while seated, you can definitely use an under-desk bike with your ergonomic table.
The best DeskCycle model is the one that can address your needs. One model may be the best for another, but it may be something that will not work out for you. Our guide includes a number of DeskCycle machines, and any of them would be a great choice.
Final Note
Under-desk bikes and ellipticals are great low-maintenance fitness machines that can give you a low-impact workout or a high-intensity training session. Whether you need to get those muscles moving in front of a desk or want to maximize your relaxation time with a low-impact passive exercise, pedal exercisers are the compact, portable solutions to your fitness needs. They also provide great therapy for those who might have trouble walking, whether due to a physical condition or old age. They’re also a good tool to help aid your weight loss journey.
Editor’s Choice
DeskCycle Desk Exercise Bike-Pedal Exerciser
The DeskCycle Pedal Exerciser is a great, easy-to-use appliance that can greatly improve one’s everyday life. With features that include a multifunctional digital monitor that shows the user’s progress, the ability to choose between 8 resistance options, and the mini cycle’s portable design, you can’t go wrong with this DeskCycle offering. It comes at a relatively affordable price, too, and you’re getting more than what you pay for with its functions and features.
Whenever you’re feeling a little stagnant at your table, this device can help kickstart you into full focus and concentration so you’re able to work better. You can set the resistance to a low level so you maintain activity without working up a sweat. Even then, this magnetic mini-exercise bike doesn’t have to be used only at your workstation — you can use it to pedal while scrolling through your phone or catching the news.
