| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Flywheel weight | Resistance | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SNODE E20i Check Discounted Price | L:47" W:24" H:61" | 265 lbs | 22 lbs | Eddy current, 16 levels | 12 programs, BMI, Recovery, Bluetooth, iConsole compatible |
The SNODE E20i is one of the new elliptical trainers released in 2019. In terms of features, it can be compared to the Sunny SF-E3912, but it has a lighter weight capacity and fewer workout programs. It’s also one of the most affordable ellipticals with an automatic resistance system.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 47L x 24W x 61H inches (119L x 61W x 155H cm)
- Assembled weight: 77.2 lbs (35 kg)
- Flywheel weight: 22 lbs (10 kg)
- Supported weight: 265 lbs (120 kg)
- Stride: 13.7 inches (33.5 cm)
- Incline: No
- Resistance: Motorized-magnetic, 16 levels
- Console: 12 programs, BMI, Recovery, Bluetooth & iConsole compatible
- Extras: Tablet holder
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Frame and parts
The SNODE E20i features a durable steel frame made of thick steel tubing. However, it isn’t a super-heavy
machine; with the fully assembled frame, it weighs only 77.2 lbs (35 kg). It’s also space-saving; it is only 47″ (119 cm) long, and 24″ (61 cm) wide, so it shouldn’t need a usage area larger than 70″L x 60″ (178 x 152 cm). This being said, it can fit pretty well into a small room or apartment.
The machine’s frame is coated with a rust-resistant paint finish, gray in color, this being the only version available. Of course, the unit also integrates several ABS parts in its construction. For example, the covers of the drive and resistance elements, the joint covers, and several other small covers are made of tough ABS plastic, black/gray in color.
The unit’s rear base is equipped with a set of polygonal caps which can rotate and serve as levelers. Conversely, the front base integrates two small wheels which facilitate the relocation of the elliptical. In case you’re wondering the E20i does not fold. Once it was assembled, it can only be stored as it is.
The SNODE E20i is equipped with two sets of handlebars. One set is fixed, the other is mobile. The fixed handlebars are directly attached to the main upright bar of the machine. They integrate pulse sensors. The mobile arms are connected to the pedal bars; this being said, they cannot be locked, so they will continue to move for as long as you pedal. They feature long, rubberized grips, with rounded grips at the top.
The machine’s pedals are made of heavy-duty ABS material. They are designed to support users up to 265 lbs (120 kg). They feature a non-slip surface but do not integrate any additional cushioning or any articulation. They are large enough to accommodate athletic footwear of all sizes and have side guards for extra foot stability. They do not have a position adjustment system, though.
Stride, elliptical path, and step-up height
Since it’s a small footprint elliptical, the SNODE E20i also has a rather short, 13.7″ (33.5 cm) stride. This
being said, it can accommodate comfortably users between 4’5″ and 6’1″ (135 – 185 cm). Taller users should also be able to use this machine, but their range of motion will be limited. Needless to say, the stride is fixed; its length cannot be adjusted.
The SNODE E20i does not have an incline system like the Schwinn 430, for example. Therefore, the angle of its elliptical path cannot be adjusted. The unit’s elliptical path is oval-shaped and slightly inclined forward. This being said, a ride on this machine resembles a descension on a soft ramp or hill. This puts more focus on the glutes and helps with the toning of your thighs.
The pedal step-up height is approx. 6″ (16 cm), while at their highest point, the pedals reach approx. 12″ (32 cm) above floor level. Therefore, it is recommended to use this elliptical trainer in a room with a ceiling that is at least 15″ (38 cm) higher than your own height.
Drive and resistance
The SNODE E20i integrates fairly heavy flywheel for a small machine. It weighs 22 lbs (10 kg), it has a 
balanced structure and is designed to provide a smooth and steady pedaling motion. It is also bi-directional. Therefore, you can pedal in reverse if you want. This gives you the possibility to add diversity to your workouts.
This SNODE elliptical trainer is equipped with an automatic magnetic resistance system. This means you have to connect it to a power source. An adapter with power cord is included with it. It also means that the resistance can only be adjusted from the console, and the console can automatically adjust the resistance as well if certain programs are in use.
The unit’s resistance system consists of a magnetic bracket attached to the flywheel assembly and a servo motor. Therefore, when you adjust the resistance, the motor changes the position of the brake in relation to the flywheel, increasing or decreasing the pedaling difficulty.
The machine offers 16 levels of resistance. The first level is fairly light, offering the possibility to train on a basic level. This is great for users who require recovery training, users with certain disabilities, or elderly users. Conversely, the top resistance levels provide a considerably higher pedaling difficulty, great for anyone who wants a more consistent training regimen.
In most cases, the elliptical trainers or exercise bikes equipped with a magnetic resistance system have a belt transmission. The SNODE E20i does not make an exception. It integrates a durable, stretch-resistant belt, so it doesn’t need any lubrication. It also delivers a very quiet, vibration-free pedaling motion.
Console
The console of the SNODE E20i shares quite a few similarities with the console of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4880 
recumbent bike. It has the same preset programs, a BMI calculator, and a Recovery function. But on the other hand, it has Bluetooth connectivity.
The machine’s console has an LCD display divided into 7 sub-sections. It shows time, distance, speed, calories, and pulse. It is not telemetric, though, so it can only read your pulse rate through the integrated sensors. It does not work with any HR chest straps or wrist straps.
There are 12 preset programs available on the console, divided into three categories. These are Beginner, Advance, and Sporty. Each program has several difficulty settings which you can select prior to launching it.
Recovery and BMI functions are also available. The BMI function offers you the possibility to calculate your body fat percentage based on your weight, height, and gender. The Recovery function requires the usage of the pulse sensors; it is to be used at the end of your workout. It measures how long it takes your pulse to return to normal after the workout and based on the result, it will give you a fitness rating between F1 (excellent) and F6 (poor). These two functions have their own quick selection buttons on the console, while for the selection of the other programs, you will have to use the dial/button in the middle.
The console also has a Bluetooth function. This being said, you can sync it with your smartphone or tablet in order to stream your workout data directly into your online fitness account. It is compatible with the iConsole app for iOS and Android systems. This app will help you keep track of your progress online and offers a few extra features.
Last but not least, the console does not have speaker, a cooling fan, or a USB port for your device, but does have a tablet holder. This accessory is placed right above the unit’s controls and is large enough to accommodate any tablet.
Assembly and Maintenance
The main body of the machine comes pre-assembled. You only have to attach the two base bars, the console mast, the console, the fixed handlebars, the mobile arms, the pedals, and several other small parts. The included manual provides all the necessary assembly instructions and a basic toolkit is also included. The assembly process is far from being complicated and shouldn’t take more than an hour.
Once the machine is fully assembled, you don’t have to worry too much about maintenance. The internal components shouldn’t need any lubrication or any maintenance for a long period of time. So, you basically have to just keep your elliptical clean, keep liquids away from the console, lubricate the joints if it’s the case, and periodically check for loose bolts.
The Pros
- Sturdy construction – can support users up to 265 lbs;
- Adjustable stabilizers on the rear base;
- Transport wheels on the front base;
- Fixed and mobile handlebars;
- Fairly heavy (22 lbs) flywheel for a consistent momentum and smooth pedaling;
- Extra-large, non-slip, durable pedals;
- 16 levels of eddy current resistance;
- Multi-window LCD display console to show all the workout metrics simultaneously;
- LED backlight on the console display;
- The console can track time, distance, speed, pulse, and calories burned;
- 12 workout programs;
- Recovery function included;
- BMI function;
- Bluetooth function and compatibility with the iConsole app for iOS and Android;
- Tablet holder included;
- Quiet operation;
- Easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required;
- Decent warranty.
The Cons
- The calories reading isn’t too accurate;
- A tablet placed on the console will cover its display.
Summary
The SNODE E20i is an elliptical trainer made for home use. It features an automatic magnetic resistance system with 16 tension levels and a console with 12 workout programs, BMI, Recovery and Bluetooth functions. It has a pretty sturdy construction and a small footprint, great for apartment use. It’s a great machine for a low-impact cardio workout, interval training, recovery training, stamina development, and weight loss. And finally, it’s one of the most affordable ellipticals with an automatic resistance system and online connectivity.