Steelcase Walkstation Treadmill Desk Review

The Walkstation by Steelcase is a walking treadmill desk available as either a Walkstation or a Sit-to-Walkstation. The unit is a premium price product combining an ergonomic office desk with a commercial grade treadmill which has a top speed of 2 miles per hour. It was first introduced to the market in 2007 and the model has not changed much since. Steelcase uses a Patented Soft System® to absorb shock in the front part of the desk. Users can control the treadmill and the desk with a stowable touchpad controller. The built-in digital display allows users to keep track of time, distance and calories burnt while walking.

In the Sit-to-Walkstation version of the desk, the work surface height is fully adjustable with a wide range of programmable settings that will accommodate the majority of users. The unit is sturdy, durable and covered by a long-lasting and comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty. Over recent years, the Steelcase Treadmill desk price has fluctuated quite considerably. Prices have dropped from the original 2007 price tag of over $5,000 to $4,566 for the basic model and to $4,745 for the Sit-to-Stand version which was initially $400 more expensive than its sister product.

What does the Steelcase Walkstation Look Like?

The design of the Steelcase has not changed since the product initially entered the market in 2007. As such, the Walkstation looks clunky, quite dated, and has nothing that makes it stand out. The desk and frame finishes along with the coordinating accessories from the Steelcase range do not have the contemporary minimalistic style that we have come to associate with competitor products on the market.

Walkstation comes with either a 38” rectangular work surface or a 66” wing shape top and there are many color options including black, white, maple and cherry. Although the desk is not particularly attractive, neither is it in any way offensive and it could fit in well in the majority of offices. Optional extras include slat rails or a slat wall for holding a monitor arm and work tools. There are also some privacy and modesty screen options and a cable management systems which can be added to the Walkstation. Prices for the optional extras are on the high side. A monitor arm will cost an extra $195 while a slat rail will set you back $91.80.

How does the Steelcase Walkstation perform as a Treadmill?

The treadmill belt is 18” wide and 53” in length which is long enough for most strides. The belt is 6” off the ground which is quite high in comparison to other models. A stowable display, mounted underneath the desk shows speed, time, distance and calories burned. This can be easily accessed and slid back under the desk out of view. The desk also uses noise cancellation technology to minimize the sound of the motor and is limited to an upper speed of 2.0 mph which is as fast as most people would wish to walk while working. A built-in Odometer tracks the total distance walked on the treadmill and estimates the number of calories that the user has burned.

Experts have noted that the treadmill has rated poorly for power consumption, in the 3A to 8A range. Steelcase has not published the horsepower of the treadmill but they state that it has been designed explicitly for walking rather than running. This means that the motor has more torque when operating at low speeds and should enhance the longevity of the machine. The treadmill is unsuitable for users who weight more than 300 lb and some Steelcase Walkstation Treadmill Desk reviews from heavier users have complained about damage to the belt after prolonged use.

How does the Steelcase Walkstation Treadmill Desk perform as a Workstation?

The basic model Walkstation cannot be used sitting down and must remain in standing position. The desk surface has a weight capacity of 180lb which although low compared to other standing desks, is adequate for most workstation needs. The wider Sit-to-Walkstation version of the Steelcase Treadmill desk costs just slightly more than the basic model and is fully adjustable from a minimum height of 24.25” to a maximum of 52”. This range is large enough to accommodate the vast majority of users. The extra width of the Sit-to-Walkstation allows users to fit a chair next to the treadmill which makes it more versatile and means that the desk can be used only as a desk for long periods of time.

The electric lift uses a three-stage telescoping frame and an internal DC motor. The unit is programmable with up to three preferred height settings and travels at 1.25” per second when in motion, translating into a transition time of approximately 8 seconds from a sitting to standing position. Although detailed dB data isn’t available for this desk, some Steelcase Walkstation reviews have noted that the lift motor is quite loud. The workstation frame consists of sturdy, squared telescoping legs on wide steel feet and users report that it feels steady, solid and durable.

Shipping, Assembly, and Warranty

Customers who wish to purchase either version of the Walkstation will need to be prepared to wait. According to the company website, neither product can be shipped in less than 28 – 35 days. US shipping is included in the price, but as the Walkstation is a heavyweight 225 lbs, free delivery only applies if you have a loading dock. Inside delivery carries a surcharge and is assessed and charged on a case by case basis.

The Walkstation is pre-assembled so customers will be pleased that they don’t need to fiddle around with screwdrivers or drill bits. An initial set up of preferred height settings is necessary but this can be done via the simple and straightforward control unit which can also be easily reset or changed. Steelcase offers a lifetime warranty on the desk and treadmill frame, a 12-year warranty on the Walkstation Desk surface, five years on the electronics and urethane profile and a three-year warranty on parts and wear items. Treadmill service labor carries a 1-year warranty.