Best Under Desk Stepper
An under desk stepper, also known as a desk stepper, sitting stepper machine, or a mini stepper, is similar to a stair stepper but much smaller.
Table of Contents
Why These Steppers are Suited for Use Under a Desk
First and foremost, an under desk stepper when used while sitting helps your body when you have to sit for long periods. In fact, these machines exercise you feet, calves, thighs and glutes. Also, they help blood circulation in the legs. And, because of the nature of effort needed, they may be more effective that other under desk machines. Finally, when needed, you can also use them while standing.
Now, the steppers, reviewed here, can indeed be used while sitting or working at a desk. Incidentally, a typical desk has a depth of at least 21 inches. And, the steppers reviewed here have a depth ranging from 15 to 17 inches, which is less than 21 inches. Meanwhile, some of the best elliptical trainers, used while sitting, have lengths that are greater than 18 inches and could be as long as 32 inches. Also, the sturdy and stable pedal exercisers have lengths ranging from 22 to 24 inches.
Next, many steppers, such as those reviewed below, allow you to reduce the vertical movement of the footplates which helps their use under a typical desk. On the other hand, typical pedal exercisers have a high vertical profile making them difficult to use under a desk. However, pedal exercisers with a reduced pedaling circle are more likely to work under a desk.
Best Desk Stepper Reviews
Editor's Choice
Sunny NO. 012-s
Comparison of 5 Best Desk Steppers
Height in Inches
BEOUZO Mini Stepper - 9.5
Sunny NO. 045 - 14
Sunny NO. 012-s - 13.5
FootFit - 5.5
EFITMENT - 7.5
Display
BEOUZO Mini Stepper - Duration, step count, total steps, calories
Sunny NO. 045 - Duration, step count, steps per minute, calories
Sunny NO. 012-s - Duration, total step count, steps per minute, calories
EFITMENT - Duration, step count, steps per minute, calories
Features
BEOUZO Mini Stepper - Resistance bands when used in standing mode and footplates twist side to side
Sunny NO. 045 - Resistance bands when used in standing mode and footplates twist side to side
Sunny NO. 012-s - Resistance bands when used in standing mode and footplates twist side to side
Warranty
BEOUZO Mini Stepper - 1 year frame, 90 day parts
Sunny NO. 045 - 1 year frame, 180 day parts
Sunny NO. 012-s - 1 year frame, 180 day parts
FootFit - 1 year
EFITMENT - 1 year frame, 90 day parts
A/A+ Feedback
BEOUZO Mini Stepper - 71%
Sunny NO. 045 - 82%
Sunny NO. 012-s - 85%
FootFit - 45%
EFITMENT - 83%
1-5 Rating
BEOUZO Mini Stepper - 4.5
Sunny NO. 045 - 4.9
Sunny NO. 012-s - 5.0
FootFit - 4.0
EFITMENT - 4.8
1. BEOUZO Mini Stepper
BEOUZO Fitness Stair Stepper - Cardio Exercise Trainer - Stepper Twisting Machine - Stepper Exercise Equipment
Benefits
First and foremost, this stepper moves up and down and side to side in a low impact twisting motion that works your calves, thighs, and glutes. Also, the stepper comes with two removable high resistance bands: one for balance and one for versatile use. As a result, you can use this stepper while sitting at a desk, or, standing and/or using the removable resistance bands to tone your chest, shoulder, and arm muscles. By the way, the resistance band’s handles are made of easy to grip foam.
Construction
Now, the body of the stepper is made of high-quality steel.
Dimensions
Next, the stepper is 15.75 inches long, 15.75 inches wide, and 9.45 inches high. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.
By the way, using the stepper's knob you can increase or decrease the angle and height of the footplate from 5.5 inches to 13.8 inches. For example, loosening the knob decreases the angle and height the foot plate can move. As a result, you may be able to use the stepper under a desk. In addition, the stepper may be pulled out a bit from the desk to make it easier to use the stepper while working at a desk.
Display
In the meantime, the LCD monitor displays exercise time, step count, total step count, and calories. Furthermore, the scan function sequentially displays all of these measurements.
Footplates
Meanwhile, the stepper's footplates are 14.2 inches long and 5.9 inches wide. Consequently, the footplates will accommodate a broad range of feet and shoes. Also, these non-slip, non-slide textured footplates are made of PVC.
Sliding
In addition, the stepper has skid-resistance floor protectors. Furthermore, it comes with a mat to prevent sliding and scratching the floor.
Tension
Next, the tension knob makes it easy to adjust your workout from easy to hard. For example, tightening the knob increases the angle and height of footplate motion, which, in turn increases tension. While, loosening the knob decreases the angle and height of footplate motion, which, in turn, decreases tension. By the way, the hydraulic pistons provide a smooth, cushioning, and quiet workout. So, it’s good for your joints.
Warranty
Meanwhile, this fitness stair stepper comes with a 1-year warranty on the frame and a 90-day warranty on parts.
Weight
In addition, the stepper weighs 20.3 pounds, making it possible to lift and move the stepper to storage or other locations.
Weight Limit
Finally, this stepper can be used, in standing mode, by anyone weighing less than 220 pounds.
PROS
First, the stepper's height can be adjusted below 9.45 inches.
Also, the stepper comes with a 1-year warranty on the frame and 90 days for parts.
2. Sunny NO. 045
Sunny Health & Fitness Twist Stepper - NO. 045
Benefits
The Sunny twist stepper causes your heels to move up and down and side to side in a low impact twisting motion. Meanwhile, the front of your feet do the same motions but to a much lesser degree. Also, the stepper's hydraulic resistance provides a smooth and quiet workout.
Construction
First, the body of the stepper is made out of heavy duty steel.
Dimensions
Next, the stepper is 17 inches long and 19 inches wide. Also, the highest point of a footplate is 14 inches above the floor. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.
However, the stepper's height adjustment lever can be used to reduce the vertical movement of the pedals. As a result, you may be able to use the stepper under a desk. In addition, the stepper may be pulled out a bit from the desk to make it easier to use the stepper while working at a desk.
Display
Next, the stepper's LCD monitor displays exercise duration, step count, total step count, and calories burned.
Footplates
Also, the oversized, slip-resistant foot plates keep you firmly planted during use.
Adjustable Resistance
In addition, the stepper's hydraulic resistance provides a smooth and quiet workout. Furthermore, using the stepper's height adjustment knob to change stepper height also changes its hydraulic resistance.
Warranty
Meanwhile, the stepper comes with a 1 year warranty on the frame and 180 days for parts.
Weight
In addition, the stepper weighs 20 pounds.
Weight Limit
Finally, the weight limit of the stepper is 250 pounds when standing. However, this is not an issue when using it while seated.
PROS
First, the pedal's height can be lowered so that the stepper can be used under a table or desk.
Second, the bands give you an upper body workout when you use it while standing.
Meanwhile, the stepper comes with a 1-year warranty on the frame and 180-days on parts.
CONS
However, the pedals move side to side. This may be disconcerting to some who only want an up-down movement.
3. Sunny NO. 012-s
Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper - NO. 012-s
Benefits
Most of all, when used in the standing mode with the resistance bands, the Sunny stepper tightens over 20 different core muscles including your chest, back, shoulders, inner and outer thighs, abs, and obliques. While, simply removing the resistance bands makes the Sunny stepper a desk stepper.
Construction
First, for lasting durability, the body of the Sunny stepper is made out of industrial strength steel.
Dimensions
Next, the stepper is 16 inches long, 12.5 inches wide, and 13.5 inches high. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.
However, the stepper's height adjustment lever can be used to reduce the vertical movement of the pedals. As a result, you may be able to use the stepper under a desk. In addition, the stepper may be pulled out a bit from the desk to make it easier to use the stepper while working at a desk.
Display
Also, the LCD monitor of the stepper displays exercise duration, total step count, steps per minute, and calories. Meanwhile, the scan sequentially displays these exercise measures continuously.
Footplates
Most noteworthy, the stepper has footplates that are wide, textured and have non-slip features. In addition, the stepper's footplates twist side to side.
Pedal Height
Especially relevant, the height adjustment knob adjusts step motion height to give you either short or long steps. Therefore, if you want to use the stepper under a table, use the adjustment knob to lower pedal height.
Adjustable Resistance
Next, the hydraulic resistance of the stepper provides a smooth and quiet workout. Furthermore, using the stepper's height adjustment knob to change pedal height also changes the hydraulic resistance.
Warranty
Meanwhile, the stepper comes with a 1 year warranty on the frame and 180 days for parts.
Weight
In addition, the stepper weighs 14.5 pounds, making it easy to lift and move to storage or anywhere else.
Weight Limit
Finally, the weight limit of the stepper is 220 pounds when standing. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the stepper and potentially cause it to break.
PROS
First, the pedal's height can be lowered so that the stepper can be used under a table or desk.
Second, the bands give you an upper body workout when you use it while standing.
Also, the stepper comes with a 1-year warranty on the frame and 180-days on parts.
CONS
However, the pedals move side to side. This may be disconcerting to some who only want an up-down movement.
4. FootFit
FootFit Sitting Stepper - Seated Leg Exerciser - Calf Exercise Equipment
Benefits
First and foremost, the FootFit sitting stepper machine is used for improving blood circulation and moving your legs while sitting at a desk, watching TV, or reading a book. Also, it is also good for the elderly with weak joints.
Dimensions
Meanwhile this sitting stepper machine is 15" deep, 11.4" wide, 5.5" high. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.
Warranty
Also, the sitting stepper machine comes with a one year warranty. In fact, the manufacturer will replace a defective unit with a new one.
Weight
Finally, the sitting stepper machine weighs 2 pounds.
PROS
Most of all, the sitting stepper machine comes with a one-year warranty. In fact, the seller will replace a defective sitting stepper machine with a new one.
5. EFITMENT
EFITMENT Fitness Stepper Step Machine - S021
Benefits
The EFITMENT stepper's up and down movement tightens and tones calves, gluteal muscles, and hip flexors. Meanwhile, other features of this stepper are described below.
Dimensions
First, the stepper is 17 inches long, 12.5 inches wide, and 7.5 inches high. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.
However, the stepper's height adjustment lever can be used to reduce the vertical movement of the pedals. As a result, you may be able to use the stepper under a desk. In addition, the stepper may be pulled out a bit from the desk to make it easier to use the stepper while working at a desk.
Display
Next, the LCD monitor displays exercise duration, step count, steps per minute, and calories. Meanwhile, the stepper's scan function sequentially rotates and displays these values continuously.
Footplates
Most noteworthy, the stepper's footplates are wide, textured, and non-slip. Consequently, the footplates will accommodate a broad range of feet and shoes.
Pedal Height
Especially relevant, the stepper's pedal height is adjustable. Therefore, adjusting the pedal height, limits vertical pedal movement, which helps you to use the stepper under a table.
Adjustable Resistance
Also, the stepper's hydraulic power provides a smooth and quiet workout. However, the hydraulic resistance is not adjustable.
Warranty
Meanwhile, the EFITMENT fitness stepper comes with a 1 year warranty on the frame and 90 days for parts.
Weight
In addition, the stepper weighs 15 pounds, making it easy to lift and move the stepper to storage or other locations.
Weight Limit
Finally, the weight limit of the stepper is 220 pounds when standing. Indeed, anyone heavier may exceed the design limits of the stepper and potentially cause it to break.
PROS
First, the stepper's height is 7.5 inches.
Also, the stepper comes with a 1-year warranty on the frame and 90 days for parts.
Under Desk Stepper Buyers Guide
The under desk stepper buyer's guide gives additional insight into under desk stepper's features.
Under Desk Stepper FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Also, check out the under desk steppers frequently asked questions.