With the increase in people working from home, WalkingPad has released several new models to suit user's needs.
Today we are reviewing the WalkingPad C1 which has been designed for users that want an under-desk treadmill that allows them to work and train simultaneously.
So let's get to it and break down the C1 and see how it performs.
WalkingPad C1 Overview
The WalkingPad C1 is a versatile, compact under-desk treadmill designed for convenience and efficiency.
It arrives fully assembled and is easy to set up, with a folding design that makes it highly portable and easy to store.
Powered by a 1HP brushless motor that provides quiet, consistent performance, allowing speeds up to 3.75 mph without disturbing you while you work.
The innovative remote control display is ideal for use under a standing desk, allowing you to track your workout without trying to see a display mounted by your feet.
Combining practicality with comfort, the C1 is a popular choice for home or office use.
Let's first look at a summary of the features then jump into our detailed review.
Features
- Motor: 1HP
- Walking Modes: Manual and Automatic
- Top Speed: 3.75mph
- No display (except on the remote)
- Remote with built-in display
- Walking Area: 47.25” (L) x 16.5” (W)/ 120cm (L) x 41.5cm (W)
- Maximum User Capacity: 220lbs - 100kg
- Dimensions: 57” (L) x 20.7” (W) x 4.6” (H)/ 120cm (L) x 41.5cm (W) x 11.7cm (H)
- Folded Dimensions: 33.5” (L) x 20.7” (W) x 5.5” (H)/ 85.5cm (L) x 52.8cm (W) x 14.5cm (H)
- Product Weight: 48lbs/ 22kg
WalkingPad C1 Review
Assembly
Setting up the WalkingPad C1 takes just a couple of minutes as it arrives fully assembled and only needs to be unfolded and plugged in to start.
However, to unlock the top speed, you'll need to connect to the KS Fit App; otherwise, the speed will be limited to 1.75 mph. But the app is free and easy to set up, taking just a few minutes to complete and also gives you a few extra features which we cover later in our review.
Portability
If you're considering a WalkingPad, you want a compact, easily storable treadmill.
The C1 is the lightest model in the WalkingPad lineup weighing just 48 lbs (22 kg) and can be folded down to just 85.5 cm (L) x 52.8 cm (W) x 14.5 cm (H). Thanks to its convenient transport wheels, this is small enough to easily slide under most furniture or tuck away when not in use.
While it would be nice if it could be stored upright, this would likely require a design change that could add unnecessary weight.
You'll notice the belt becomes slack when the treadmill is folded, which is completely normal. Just ensure the belt is still centered when unfolding it, although we haven't encountered the belt moving much at all, it is worth checking are getting it out.
So, in terms of portability, we have no major complaints and does everything it is intended to do.
Display and Functionality
One unique aspect of the WalkingPad C1 is that it doesn’t have a display on the machine itself like we see with almost all other WalkingPad models. Instead, the display is cleverly built into the remote control.
We really like this design choice as it works well with its intended use for under a desk, where the display on the machine is normally out of sight.
By placing the display on the remote, you can easily control and monitor your workout stats with the remote conveniently placed on your desk. The remote display provides all the essential information, including speed, time, distance, steps, and calories, which is everything you need to track your progress.
Additionally, you can connect your smart device to the KS Fit app to control the C1.
It's important to note that connecting to the app is necessary to unlock the full 3.75 mph speed, as the machine is otherwise capped at 1.75 mph.
However, the app is free and takes only a few minutes to set up. Even if the treadmill wasn't speed-capped without the app, we'd still recommend installing it for its extra features, such as the child/pet lock and the ability to track your previous workouts.
Walking Modes - Manual & Automatic
As we have seen on a number of the models by WalkingPad, there are two walking modes to choose from.
The first is Manual Mode, where you control the speed directly using the remote, allowing you to adjust your pace as needed. This mode is straightforward and ideal for those who prefer consistent control.
The second is Automatic Mode, which uses sensors to detect your position on the deck and adjust the speed accordingly.
If you move forward, the speed increases slightly; if you move towards the back, it slows down to match your pace.
While this mode can feel unusual at first, it becomes a convenient feature once you get used to it.
However, if you're using it on carpet, you might experience less accurate detection, but placing a rubber mat underneath should resolve this issue.
Motor
The C1 is equipped with a 1HP brushless motor designed to minimise noise, making it impressively quiet during use.
This allows you to easily hold conversations or take phone calls while walking without being disturbed by the motor's sound.
Despite its quiet operation, the motor is powerful enough to maintain a consistent and smooth belt speed, ensuring a comfortable walking experience.
Capable of reaching a top speed of 3.75 mph, the C1 provides a brisk walking pace that will have you reaching your daily step goal quickly.
Walking Experience
An important factor to consider is the walking experience on the WalkingPad C1.
Despite its foldable design, the C1 offers a surprisingly long walking area of 120 cm (L) x 41.5 cm (W), giving you ample space to walk comfortably.
The belt is also 1.5 cm wider than that of the WalkingPad C2, which, while seemingly minor, provides extra room for your feet which is especially useful when multitasking at a standing desk.
Although the C1 doesn't have the shock absorbers found in traditional treadmills, it's not necessary for a walking pad, as the deck is stable and offers a solid walking surface.
One minor drawback of the foldable design is the fold line in the middle of the deck which you can sometimes feel underfoot, but this is barely noticeable, especially when wearing proper running shoes.
Durability
The WalkingPad C1 is designed to be lightweight yet durable, featuring a strong steel frame that supports a maximum user weight of 220 lbs.
Despite its lighter build, it shows no signs of compromising on durability, handling regular workouts with ease.
But, ff you require a model with a higher weight capacity, consider checking out our review of the WalkingPad A1 Pro, which may better suit your needs.
Pros
- Lightweight weighing 22kg
- Reasonably priced
- Display built into the remote is a nice feature
- Quiet
- Easy to move
Cons
- Can sometimes feel the crease in the walking deck
- Automatic walking sensors sometimes have issues on carpetted floors
- Have to isntall the KS Fit app to unlock the top speed
Rounding Up
The WalkingPad C1 stands out as a compact, user-friendly under-desk treadmill that is well-designed and does exactly what it is intended for.
Its setup is simple, arriving fully assembled and ready to go although we would like it if you didn't need to install KS Fit app to unlock its full speed. But this is only a minor issue.
Weighing only 48 lbs and can be easily folded to take up minimal space it is great for anyone short on space.
While the motor is quiet it's still powerful enough to maintain a smooth and consistent belt speed for a comfortable walking experience.
Our favourite feature is the display being built into the remote, especially for those using it under a standing desk.
Overall, the WalkingPad C1 is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a machine they can use while working in their home office.
If you would like to see more models see our under desk treadmill top picks.
