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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 inside your office 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, plenty of available tools and equipment promote movement and stand as a form of physical therapy. An under-desk bike pedal exerciser is an example of such a product.
Let’s take a quick look at the best under desk bikes that even a certified personal trainer will approve.
Which Are the Top Under Desk Bikes
DeskCycle Desk Exercise Bike-Pedal ExerciserWith eight resistance levels and 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. | 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. |
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Let’s Go Over Each Under Desk Bike
#1: DeskCycle Desk Exercise Bike-Pedal Exerciser
Our pick for the best pedal exerciser is none other than the Desk Cycle Pedal Exerciser. This under desk bike 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 under-desk bike weighs in at 23 pounds and measures 24 x 20 x 10 inches.
An under-desk bike 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 while you work inside your office.
This under-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, the Deskcycle Under-Desk Bike can work with a desk space that’s as low as 27 inches.
Pros and Cons of the Desk Cycle Desk Exercise Bike-Pedal Exerciser
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Eight levels of 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
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 to make your work-at-home or office life easier and your sedentary job more active and productive.
The compact size and 24.2 lbs. weight makes it easy to transport just about anywhere.
If you’re also concerned about your health and want to track the progress you make, be it calories burned, heart rate, 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 your milestones. The greatest part is you won’t even have to leave your office desk to get a great workout for your lower body.
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 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 |
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✔️ 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
The 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.
Perfect for fitness junkies who lament sitting still at a desk all day, this under-desk not only helps you stay active but also keeps track of your fitness goals as it comes with a Bluetooth sync for your devices, including Fitbit and Apple watch, as well as a phone app.
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, 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 you spend hours 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 hobby while getting exercise at the same time.
Pros and Cons of the Cubii Pro Under-Desk Elliptical
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ 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
Sunny Health appears again on our list, this time with a more budget-friendly under-desk bike, the SF-B0418. We picked this machine as one of the best budget mini under-desk bikes because there is 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. weight, making it easy to transport from your home office to your living room.
This mini under desk bike 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 pedals 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 body when you’re too tired typing all day or preparing meals in the kitchen.
The Sunny Health SF-B0418 Magnetic Mini Bike 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 machine 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 |
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✔️ 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
The DeskCycle 2 Under-Desk Bike is an upgrade from its predecessor, making it a little pricier. As for its features and functions, it still comes with eight resistance levels so you’re able to ease into exercising without tiring yourself out on the first try.
Once you’ve gotten the hang of the mini bike, you can increase the level 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 under-desk bike 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.
The machine is also 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 |
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✔️ Comes with eight settings for resistance ✔️ 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
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 levels for each health and fitness 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 these under-desk bikes’ premium offering. With different resistance levels aimed at 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 levels 16-20 and you’ll be able to get shapely legs in no time!
Pros and Cons of the MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ 20+ settings for resistance levels ✔️ 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
The Stamina-In Motion Elliptical Trainer is a great mini-elliptical for those who need to shed 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 fitness needs. It can be a great passive or quick workout done while watching a movie or gaming, while it can also be part of a higher exercise regimen.
This is one of our picks because it comes with a few unique features, such as three different color options (green, orange, and silver), an adjustable tension knob, and a foot pedal that can move both forward and backward.
You can adjust the level 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 |
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✔️ 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
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 desks, so you won’t have to worry about the hassle of moving your office chair away and then leaning down to get your gear.
While it’s designed for low-impact exercises, this device can double as a high-resistance fitness tool. Simply switch from one of its eight settings to another and you’ll be able to customize your workout as you see fit.
Not only that, the device is made with extremely quiet technology, so you can perform hobbies like reading and gaming without disturbance.
Pros and Cons of the Cubii Jr. Desk Elliptical
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Quiet and smooth movement ✔️ Lightweight and portable ✔️ Eight resistance settings ✔️ Has a built-in monitor | ✖️ Can be expensive |
#9: FitDesk Under Desk Elliptical
One model 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 level options, you can go from a low-impact 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 this machine shows a variety of menu settings for different types of use. However, it’s also worth noting that Amazon reviews and other media outlets show some versions of this product to develop a squeak over time, so it’s important to read the manual carefully 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 with menu ✔️ Menu settings for different uses | ✖️ Comes in only 1 color ✖️ May develop a squeak |
#10: Vive Pedal Exerciser
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 level 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 |
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✔️ 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: Vaunn Folding Pedal Exerciser
The Vaunn Folding Pedal Exerciser is our best budget pick for an under desk bike, offering a budget-friendly way to stay active while working or watching TV.
This desk bike pedal exerciser is compact, lightweight, and designed for easy storage, making it a great fit for small spaces.
Whether you’re using it for a low-impact under desk workout or rehabbing an injury, it provides a smooth and steady pedaling motion for either your feet or hands. The LCD display keeps track of calories burned, time, and intensity, ensuring you stay on top of your fitness goals.
What sets this under desk exerciser apart from higher-end models is its affordability without compromising essential features. The adjustable tension knob allows for customizable resistance levels, while the non-slip base and pedal straps ensure stability.
The super quiet operation means you can use it during Zoom calls without distraction.
Plus, it arrives fully assembled, so you can start pedaling immediately. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that’s both effective and easy to store, the under desk bike Vaunn is a solid choice.
Pros and Cons of the Vaunn Folding Pedal Exerciser
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Best budget under desk bike ✔️ Lightweight and easy storage ✔️ Fully assembled and ready to use ✔️ Super quiet noise levels for Zoom calls ✔️ Has an adjustable knob for resistance control ✔️ Has an LCD display for calories burned and workout tracking ✔️ Comes with a non-slip mat and pedal straps for stability | ✖️ Has lower levels compared to higher-end models ✖️ Lacks resistance bands for upper body workouts ✖️ May shift slightly on hardwood floors when used without a mat |
#12: FlexCycle Exercise Bike
If you’re looking for a desk bike that offers more than just pedaling, the FlexCycle Exercise Bike is a standout choice. With eight resistance levels, this under desk bike lets you tailor your workout, making it ideal for beginners and fitness enthusiasts alike.
The included resistance bands take things a step further, allowing you to engage your upper body for a full-body workout.
Whether you’re using it under your standing desk or in front of the TV, the elliptical motion ensures a smooth and comfortable ride.
Designed for versatility, this under desk exerciser features an LCD display that tracks calories burned, time, speed, and distance. The sturdy, heavy-duty frame sits securely on hardwood floors, and the non-slip mat keeps everything in place. The carry handle makes it easy to move, and the setup process is simple with easily adjusted settings.
If you’re comparing desk bikes, this one stands out for its extra features that keep things interesting, ensuring you burn more calories while staying active at your desk.
Pros and Cons of the FlexCycle Exercise Bike
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Includes resistance bands for upper body training ✔️ Has an LCD display to track workout progress ✔️ Has a heavy-duty build with a carry handle | ✖️ A bit pricey ✖️ Not on the lighter side than other desk bike compare choices ✖️ Setup process requires the assembly of other fitness gear |
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 mini bike for exercise.
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 certified personal trainer may agree that mini bikes offer many benefits for your health such as helping increase circulation and blood flow, keeping heart rate in check, and aiding weight loss or shedding extra calories while we’re busy typing away on a keyboard at work and living a sedentary job.
Are Under Desk Bikes Effective?
The physical 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 muscle soreness, obesity, heart disease, and more.
Are Under the Desk Bikes Worth It?
Under desk bikes can be a great investment, especially if you have a sedentary job or want to be active while sitting. The best under desk bikes offer a low-impact way to keep your legs moving, improve circulation, and shed calories without disrupting your workflow. Many models come with eight resistance levels, allowing you to adjust your workout intensity to match your fitness goals.
Fitness experts recommend under desk bikes for people who struggle to find time for exercise. They help keep your metabolism engaged throughout the day, making them an excellent option for men’s health and overall well-being.
However, it’s important to check that your desk has enough clearance to pedal comfortably. If you work in an office, a lighter model with low noise levels will be the best choice to avoid disturbing colleagues.
Do Under Desk Bikes Really Burn Calories?
Yes, under desk bikes do burn calories, though the exact amount depends on factors like resistance levels, pedaling speed, and duration. Unlike high-intensity workouts, under desk bikes provide steady, low-impact movement that can help with weight management over time. Studies show that even gentle pedaling throughout the day can contribute to an increased calorie burn, helping to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting.
The best under desk bikes often include an LCD monitor to track calories burned, allowing you to monitor your progress. If you want to maximize your calorie burn, consider increasing the level or using an elliptical-style motion to engage more muscles.
Can I Lose Weight Using a Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser?
A desk bike pedal exerciser can definitely help with weight loss, but like any fitness tool, it works best when combined with a healthy diet and overall active lifestyle.
Since under desk bikes engage your legs continuously, they help increase your daily energy expenditure without requiring extra time at the gym. To see noticeable weight loss, it’s important to use the bike regularly and incorporate varying levels to keep your workouts effective.
Fitness experts recommend using an under desk bike while working or watching TV to make movement a natural part of your routine. If weight loss is your goal, increasing the intensity to a higher level setting can help burn more calories. However, you should check your diet and ensure you’re consuming fewer calories than you burn for the best results.
What is the Difference Between Under Desk Bikes and Ellipticals
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. They also have a different stride and motion than under-desk bikes because they let you move your feet forward and back, much like walking or going up the stairs.
On the other hand, under-desk mini bikes look like regular, easily portable bikes (without the cup holder and resistance bands). It involves similarly moving your feet 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 mini bikes one point more than the elliptical.
Which is Better, Under Desk Bike, Elliptical Bike, or Bike?
To know which of these three would suit you best, let’s take a look at each one first.
Under Desk Bike
An under desk bike is a fantastic option for those who want to stay active while working or watching TV. These compact machines fit conveniently under a standing desk or regular desk, allowing you to pedal throughout the day without taking time away from work.
Many of the best under desk bikes come with eight resistance levels, so you can adjust the intensity to match your fitness goals. They are also lighter and easy to store, making them perfect for small spaces or an office environment.
However, under desk bikes primarily focus on lower-body movement. While they can help shed calories and improve circulation, they don’t provide a full-body workout like other exercise machines. It’s also important to double-check that your desk has enough clearance to avoid bumping your knees.
Elliptical Bike
An elliptical-style bike offers a more dynamic workout by engaging both the upper and lower body. Unlike an under desk bike, which mainly targets the legs, an elliptical bike allows you to work your arms, core, and back while maintaining a smooth, low-impact motion. It’s a great option for those looking to improve overall fitness without putting too much stress on the joints.
The downside is that elliptical bikes take up more space and aren’t as easy to use while working at a desk. They also tend to have higher noise levels, which may not be ideal for a shared office setting. If you’re looking for a workout that engages more muscle groups and increases calorie burn, an elliptical bike might be the better option, but it won’t offer the same level of convenience as an under desk exerciser.
Traditional Bike
A standard bike, whether stationary or outdoor, is the best option for those focused on high-intensity workouts, endurance training, or outdoor cycling. Unlike an under desk bike, which is designed for low-impact movement, a traditional bike allows for intense cardio sessions, making it a better choice for improving heart health and overall fitness. Many models also come with eight resistance settings, allowing you to increase your workout intensity as needed.
The downside is that traditional bikes require dedicated workout time, which may not be ideal for people with busy schedules. They also take up more space and aren’t as easy to integrate into daily routines as an under desk bike or an elliptical-style bike.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your fitness goals, space, and lifestyle. If you need a convenient way to stay active while sitting, an under desk bike is the best option, especially if you work at an office or have limited space.
If you want a more engaging, full-body workout, an elliptical bike is a great alternative. For those focused on endurance training and intense cardio, a bike offers the best results.
No matter which one you choose, check your space and fitness needs to find the right fit. Are you working inside your office? Then you may need an under desk bike pedal exerciser that’s on the lighter side. If you’re using a standing desk, then you can make use of an elliptical bike.
Regardless of whether you’re using an under desk bike pedal exerciser, elliptical, or opt to go the traditional route, it’s always good to start a healthy and active lifestyle!
Is 30 Minutes of Stationary Bike the Same As 30 Minutes of Walking?
Both activities offer health benefits, but they differ in intensity, calorie burn, and muscle engagement. A stationary bike typically burns more calories than walking, especially when using eight resistance levels to increase intensity. Cycling also engages different muscle groups, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves, while walking primarily targets the lower legs and core.
However, walking has its own advantages, such as weight-bearing benefits that improve bone health. If you’re using an under desk bike at work, it provides an easy way to stay active without requiring extra time for a walk.
To compare the two, you can double-check your calorie burn using a fitness tracker or an exercise calculator.
Final Note
Under-desk bikes and ellipticals are great low-maintenance fitness machine wonders that can give you a low-impact exercise 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 low-impact passive exercise, mini bikes and ellipticals 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. Under-desk mini bikes and ellipticals are also good tools 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 eight resistance levels, and the mini cycle’s portable design, you can’t go wrong with DeskCycle mini bikes 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.