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Walking pad vs treadmill: which is right for you?

Walking pad vs treadmill: which is right for your home? We compare top speed, incline, size and storage, and who each one suits. Pick the right one.

Updated 4 November 2026

Walking pads and treadmills look similar, but they're built for different jobs. Here's how to choose.

What is a walking pad?

A walking pad is a slim, low machine made for walking. It has a smaller motor, a lower top speed and usually no tall console, so it can slide under a desk or a sofa when you're done. The KTQ 3 Series walking pad is different: it's a heavy-duty walking pad with a 4HP brushless motor, 1 to 10 km/h, 8 Level Auto Incline and room for users up to 160 kg, and it still folds to just 11 cm high.

What is a treadmill?

A treadmill has a stronger motor, a higher top speed, handrails and a console. It's built for faster walking, jogging and running, and usually takes up more room. KTQ treadmills go from the slim 1 Series (up to 12 km/h) to the 4 Series (up to 14 km/h with 15% Auto Incline).

Side by side

Walking pad (3 Series) Treadmill (1, 2 and 4 Series)
Best for Walking, desk walking, incline walks Brisk walking, jogging, running
Speed 1–10 km/h Up to 12 km/h (1 and 2 Series), up to 14 km/h (4 Series)
Incline 8 Level Auto Incline 2 or 4 Level Manual (1 and 2 Series), 15% Auto (4 Series)
Storage Folds to 11 cm, slides under most sofas Folds flat (1 Series) or folds upright (2 and 4 Series)

Choose a walking pad if…

  • You mainly want to walk, at home or while you work at a standing desk.
  • Space is tight and you want it out of sight between sessions.
  • You'd like incline at the touch of a button without a big machine.

Choose a treadmill if…

  • You want to jog or run, not just walk.
  • You'd like handrails and a full console.
  • You want more power for regular, longer sessions.

Still not sure?

Think about how you'll use it most weeks, not on your best day. If it's mostly walking, a walking pad is simpler and easier to store. If you'll want to pick up the pace, go for a treadmill. You can compare every KTQ model side by side, and every machine comes with free delivery to most of the UK and a 60-day free home trial.

Find the right machine for your home

Free UK mainland delivery, a 60-day home trial and a 3-year frame warranty on every treadmill.

Shop treadmills