Which Folding Walking Pad Should You Buy?
Compare real specs, noise levels, and fold dimensions across five proven models for Irish homes and flats.
- Folded dimensions determine if it fits under your bed or in a cupboard
- Belt length affects stride comfort for taller users (170 cm+)
- Noise levels matter in apartments and shared spaces
- Motor power and build quality impact longevity
- App integration helps track steps and adjust speed hands-free
Quick Picks: Best Walking Pad for Each Need
WalkingPad C1
Balanced fold size (82Ć53Ć14 cm), quiet operation (55ā60 dB), and proven 2 HP motor. Works well under standard desks and stores vertically.
View Product āKingSmith C2 Mini
Smallest fold (77Ć51Ć13 cm) and lightest (22 kg). Ideal for studio flats or travel between home and office.
View Product āWalkingPad P1
Rated 50ā55 dB at walking speeds. Premium brushless motor with active noise dampening. Best for video calls and focus work.
View Product āWalkingPad A1 Pro
Reliable 1.5 HP motor and 110 cm belt at mid-range pricing (ā¬300ā350). No fancy app, but solid build quality.
View Product āWalkingPad Z1
Low 12 cm unfolded height fits under 72 cm desks. Auto speed sensing adjusts to your pace without remote fumbling.
View Product āSide-by-Side Specifications
| Model | Folded Size | Belt Length | Weight | Max User | Motor | Noise | App | Price EUR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WalkingPad Z1 | 87Ć54Ć13 cm (34Ć21Ć5 in) |
120 cm (47 in) |
24 kg (53 lb) |
100 kg (220 lb) |
1.25/2.0 HP | 55ā60 dB | Yes + Auto | ā¬350ā400 |
| WalkingPad C1 | 82Ć53Ć14 cm (32Ć21Ć5.5 in) |
120 cm (47 in) |
26 kg (57 lb) |
110 kg (243 lb) |
1.5/2.0 HP | 55ā60 dB | Yes | ā¬380ā420 |
| KingSmith C2 Mini | 77Ć51Ć13 cm (30Ć20Ć5 in) |
105 cm (41 in) |
22 kg (49 lb) |
100 kg (220 lb) |
1.0/1.5 HP | 58ā62 dB | Yes | ā¬320ā360 |
| WalkingPad P1 | 90Ć56Ć15 cm (35Ć22Ć6 in) |
125 cm (49 in) |
28 kg (62 lb) |
110 kg (243 lb) |
2.0/2.5 HP | 50ā55 dB | Yes + Auto | ā¬480ā540 |
| WalkingPad A1 Pro | 83Ć54Ć13 cm (33Ć21Ć5 in) |
110 cm (43 in) |
25 kg (55 lb) |
100 kg (220 lb) |
1.25/1.5 HP | 58ā63 dB | No | ā¬300ā350 |
ā” Note: Speed ranges are 0.5ā6 km/h for all models. Motor ratings show continuous/peak HP. Noise levels measured at 3ā4 km/h. All prices checked November 2025.
Belt Length Comparison (cm)
Noise Level at Walking Speed (dB)
Ā
Detailed Model Reviews
WalkingPad Z1
The Z1 uses a unique Z-fold mechanism that collapses into a narrow 87Ć54Ć13 cm package. Its auto speed sensing adjusts pace based on foot position, removing the need to manually change speed mid-stride. The 120 cm belt suits users up to 185 cm tall comfortably.
At 24 kg, it is lighter than the C1 but slightly heavier than the C2 Mini. The 1.25 HP motor handles daily 30ā45 minute sessions reliably. Noise sits around 55ā60 dB, quieter than a dishwasher but audible during video calls.
The KS Fit app tracks distance, calories, and speed history. Auto speed mode works well for natural walking but can lag slightly when changing pace quickly.
ā Pros
- Auto speed sensing removes remote dependency
- Z-fold design stores vertically in narrow spaces
- 120 cm belt accommodates taller users
- App integration with walk history
- Low 12 cm unfolded height fits under most desks
ā Cons
- Auto speed can lag during sudden pace changes
- Max user weight limited to 100 kg
- Slightly noisier than the P1 at higher speeds
ā Good for:
- People who dislike fiddling with remotes
- Under-desk use with 72 cm+ desk height
ā Not for:
- Users over 100 kg
- Those needing silent operation during calls
WalkingPad C1
The C1 balances performance and portability. Its bi-fold design creates an 82Ć53Ć14 cm folded unit that slides under beds or stands vertically in cupboards. The 1.5 HP motor delivers consistent power for 45ā60 minute sessions without overheating.
Build quality feels solid. The 120 cm belt provides good stride room for users up to 185 cm. At 26 kg, it requires two hands to lift but remains manageable for daily setup.
Noise levels match the Z1 at 55ā60 dB. The motor hum is noticeable but not disruptive in typical home environments. Manual speed control via remote or app works reliably. The KS Fit app adds step counting and session stats. The 110 kg max user weight covers most adults comfortably.
ā Pros
- Proven 1.5 HP motor with good longevity
- 120 cm belt for comfortable strides
- Balanced fold size for storage
- 110 kg max user weight
- App integration for tracking
ā Cons
- No auto speed mode
- Heavier than C2 Mini
- Slightly noisier than P1
ā Good for:
- Daily under-desk walking sessions
- Users who prefer manual speed control
ā Not for:
- Small studio flats with very limited floor space
- Noise-sensitive environments during calls
KingSmith C2 Mini
The C2 Mini prioritises compactness. At 77Ć51Ć13 cm folded and 22 kg, it is the lightest and smallest model here. The 105 cm belt trades some stride length for portability. Users under 175 cm find it comfortable; taller users may feel slightly cramped.
The 1.0 HP motor handles 30ā40 minute sessions well but can feel underpowered during longer use. Noise sits at 58ā62 dB, slightly louder than the C1 or Z1 due to the smaller motor working harder.
The KS Fit app offers optional auto speed mode via Bluetooth. It works but is less responsive than the Z1's built-in sensor. Manual control remains more reliable. Build quality is decent but feels less robust than the C1 or P1.
ā Pros
- Smallest fold dimensions (77Ć51Ć13 cm)
- Lightest at 22 kg
- Easy to move between rooms or transport
- Budget-friendly pricing
- Optional app-based auto speed
ā Cons
- 105 cm belt feels short for users 175 cm+
- 1.0 HP motor less powerful for extended use
- Slightly noisier than larger models
- Build quality less premium
ā Good for:
- Studio flats with minimal storage
- Users under 175 cm tall
- Occasional walkers (20ā30 min sessions)
ā Not for:
- Taller users needing longer strides
- Daily 60+ minute sessions
WalkingPad P1
The P1 sits at the premium end with a 2.0 HP brushless motor and active noise dampening. At 50ā55 dB, it is the quietest model here, suitable for video calls and focus work. The 125 cm belt accommodates users up to 190 cm comfortably.
Build quality is noticeably better. The deck feels stable at all speeds. The motor runs cooler during long sessions. At 28 kg, it is the heaviest model but still manageable for setup.
The 90Ć56Ć15 cm fold is the largest here, requiring more storage space. The extra width and height come from the beefier motor and frame. The 18-month warranty reflects higher build confidence. Auto speed mode via foot position sensing works smoothly.
ā Pros
- Quietest operation (50ā55 dB)
- Most powerful 2.0 HP motor
- Longest 125 cm belt for tall users
- Premium build quality
- 18-month warranty
- Excellent auto speed sensing
ā Cons
- Largest fold size (90Ć56Ć15 cm)
- Heaviest at 28 kg
- Highest price point
ā Good for:
- Video call users needing quiet operation
- Tall users (180ā190 cm)
- Daily 60+ minute sessions
- Those prioritising build quality
ā Not for:
- Tight storage spaces
- Budget-conscious buyers
WalkingPad A1 Pro
The A1 Pro strips out app connectivity and auto speed to hit a lower price point. The 1.25 HP motor and 110 cm belt deliver solid performance for 30ā45 minute sessions. Remote control is straightforward: speed up, slow down, start, stop.
At 83Ć54Ć13 cm folded and 25 kg, it matches the Z1 and C1 for size. Build quality is decent but uses slightly cheaper plastics than the C1. The motor noise sits at 58ā63 dB, the loudest here but still reasonable for home use.
The 110 cm belt works for users up to 180 cm. Taller users may prefer the 120 cm+ belts on other models. No app means no walk history or stats tracking. If you want basic, reliable walking without smart features, the A1 Pro delivers at the lowest cost.
ā Pros
- Lowest price point
- Simple remote control (no app complexity)
- 110 cm belt adequate for most users
- Reliable 1.25 HP motor
- Good fold size
ā Cons
- No app connectivity or stats tracking
- Noisiest model (58ā63 dB)
- Shorter belt than C1/Z1/P1
- Basic build quality
ā Good for:
- Budget buyers wanting reliable basics
- Users who do not care about apps or tracking
- Occasional walkers
ā Not for:
- Data-driven users wanting stats
- Noise-sensitive environments
- Taller users needing longer belts
Walking Pad Buying Guide
ā” Measure Your Space First
Unfolded (in use):
- Measure floor space under your desk: length, width, and height clearance
- Standard sit-stand desks sit at 72ā76 cm at lowest. Most pads are 12ā13 cm tall
- Add 10 cm behind the pad for safe mounting and dismounting
Folded (storage):
- Measure cupboard, under-bed, or vertical storage width and height
- Check doorway width if moving between rooms (most Irish doors are 76ā81 cm)
Floor mat: Add a 6 mm rubber mat (150Ć70 cm) to reduce vibration and protect flooring.
ā” Belt Length and Stride Comfort
Your natural stride length is roughly 0.4Ć your height:
- 170 cm tall: ~68 cm stride. A 105 cm belt works but feels tight
- 180 cm tall: ~72 cm stride. A 110ā120 cm belt is comfortable
- 190 cm tall: ~76 cm stride. A 120ā125 cm belt is ideal
If you are between sizes, go longer. Belt width (40ā43 cm) matters less unless you tend to drift side to side.
ā” Noise Levels Explained
Walking pad noise comes from motor hum and belt friction:
- 50ā55 dB (P1): Quiet conversation level. Suitable for video calls
- 55ā60 dB (Z1, C1): Normal conversation level. Noticeable but not disruptive
- 58ā63 dB (C2 Mini, A1 Pro): Louder conversation. May distract during calls
For comparison, a fridge hums at 40ā50 dB. A dishwasher is 60ā65 dB.
Apartment tip: Use a floor mat and avoid peak quiet hours (22:00ā08:00) if downstairs neighbours are sensitive.
ā” Motor Power and Longevity
Rated motor power (continuous HP) matters more than peak power:
- 1.0 HP: Handles 20ā30 min sessions. Budget models
- 1.25ā1.5 HP: Handles 30ā60 min sessions. Most users
- 2.0 HP: Handles 60+ min sessions. Premium models
Peak power is marketing. A 1.5 HP rated motor with 2.0 HP peak is better than a 1.0 HP rated motor with 2.0 HP peak.
ā” Warranty and Support in Ireland
All models include 12ā18 month manufacturer warranty covering motor and electronics. Belts and rollers are consumables (not covered).
Check before buying:
- Does the seller offer EU-based warranty support?
- Are replacement belts and rollers available in Ireland or UK?
- What is the return window? (14-day cooling-off period is standard)
ā” Safety Basics
With children: Store remotes out of reach. Unplug when not in use. Supervise young children around moving belts.
With pets: Cats and dogs may be curious. Keep them clear during use. Unplug when not supervising.
General: Do not exceed max user weight. Wear proper footwear (not socks). Start slowly if new to walking pads.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. These models are designed for walking (up to 6 km/h). Running requires a full treadmill with higher motor power, better shock absorption, and longer belt. Running on a walking pad damages the motor and risks injury.
A fridge hums at 40ā50 dB. Walking pads range from 50ā63 dB depending on model and speed. The P1 (50ā55 dB) is close to fridge level. The A1 Pro (58ā63 dB) is noticeably louder. At 3ā4 km/h, most models produce a gentle motor hum and soft belt sound.
Yes, especially in apartments or upstairs flats. A 6 mm rubber mat (150Ć70 cm) reduces vibration, protects flooring, and dampens noise transmission to neighbours. Expect to spend ā¬20ā40 on a decent mat.
Most walking pads are 12ā13 cm tall. Your desk should be at least 72 cm high at its lowest setting to allow comfortable walking posture. Standard sit-stand desks range from 72ā76 cm at minimum height, which works well. Fixed desks below 70 cm will feel cramped.
No. Most walking pads recommend 40ā60 minute sessions with cooling breaks. The motor generates heat during use. Extended use without breaks can overheat the motor and shorten lifespan. If you walk for several hours daily, split sessions into 45-minute blocks with 15-minute rests.
Yes. The KS Fit app supports iOS (12+) and Android (6.0+). Connection is via Bluetooth. Some users report occasional Bluetooth dropouts on older phone models. Manual remote control always works as a backup.
Belt lifespan depends on usage frequency and user weight. Expect 1ā3 years with daily 30ā60 minute use. Heavier users (90 kg+) may see faster wear. Replacement belts cost ā¬40ā80 depending on model. Check availability before buying if you plan multi-year use.
Most Irish apartments have standard doorways (76ā81 cm wide). All models reviewed fold to less than 60 cm width, so they fit through doorways easily. Measure your storage space (under bed, cupboard) before buying. The C2 Mini (77Ć51 cm folded) is best for tight spaces.
Research Sources
- WalkingPad Official EU Store. Product specifications: Z1, C1, P1, A1 Pro. Accessed 4 November 2025.
- KingSmith Global. C2 Mini technical data sheet. Accessed 4 November 2025.
- Amazon UK. Customer reviews and verified purchase feedback for WalkingPad models. Accessed 4 November 2025.
- TechRadar. Best walking pads 2025: tested and reviewed. Published September 2025. Accessed 4 November 2025.
- Wirecutter (New York Times). The Best Under-Desk Treadmills. Updated October 2025. Accessed 4 November 2025.
- Reddit r/StandingDesk. User discussions on walking pad noise levels and apartment use. Accessed 3 November 2025.
- Sport & Fitness Magazine Ireland. Compact walking pads for Irish homes. Published August 2025. Accessed 4 November 2025.