The SNODE E20 Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is an excellent buy for the money. Of course, it is not the top of the line, but if you’re looking for the best affordable elliptical – this is it! It has various features to help you work out in the comfort of your home.
The E20 is a quiet, belt-driven elliptical machine with eight levels of manual magnetic resistance for a highly varied workout. You can increase or decrease the resistance as often as desired during the exercise. In addition, utilizing the moving handlebars allow you to integrate an upper body workout into your cardio routine.
The SNODE E20 magnetic elliptical trainer comes equipped with a digital fitness monitor that tracks your speed, distance, time, calories, and pulse. In addition, the stationary grips feature integrated heart rate sensors to display your heart rate on the monitor for easy real-time tracking.
Learn more in my complete review below!
Product: SNODE E20 Magnetic Elliptical Trainer
Price: For a great deal on this elliptical, merely go here on Amazon
Warranty: 1 year limited
My rating: 8/10
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Affiliate Program participant, I earn commissions on purchases made through links in this post. Full disclosure
Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 47L x 24W x 61H inches (119.4L x 61W x 155H cm)
- Assembled weight: 88 lbs (39.9 kg)
- Weight capacity: 265 lbs (120 kg)
- Stride: 13.8 inches (35 cm)
- Incline: N/A
- Resistance: Manual magnetic, eight levels
- Fitness Monitor: Time, speed, distance, calories, pulse, scan, goals
- Extras: Device holder
- Warranty: 1 year limited
E20 Frame Construction
The SNODE E20 magnetic elliptical trainer features a steel frame combining oval, rectangular, and cylindrical tubes in its construction. In addition, all the steel parts come coated with a corrosion-resistant paint finish, black.
Of course, the E20 also integrates several plastic components in its construction. For example, the pedal trays, the drive system covers, and several other small covers are durable thermoplastic materials.
The E20 is only 47″ (119.4 cm) long and 24″ (61 cm) wide. Thus, it should fit pretty well, even into a small room. However, leaving at least two feet of clearance all around it is advisable to ease access is advisable.
The machine is not too heavy. It weighs approx—88 lbs (39.9 kg), so two persons should carry the packaged unit. However, one person can easily transport the machine as its front base integrates two small wheels once assembled. Also, its rear stabilizer comes equipped with two adjustable levelers.
Like most other elliptical trainers, the SNODE E20 comes equipped with two sets of handlebars, one fixed one mobile. The fixed handlebars attach directly to the front upright bar of the frame. They have short grips and integrate metallic pulse sensors.
The moving arms feature more extended grips with oval grips at the top. They connect to the upright bar and the machine’s pedal bars, so they cannot remain stationary; they continue to move for as long as you pedal. Both handlebar sets have their grips covered by high-density foam for extra comfort.
Elliptical path, stride, and pedal height
Like most other rear-drive elliptical trainers, the SNODE E20 magnetic elliptical trainer has an elliptical path slightly inclined forward. Thus, the pedaling motion resembles a descent on a soft ramp. However, it also means that the workout will focus more on your glutes and thighs.
The machine offers a 13.8″ (35 cm) stride. Therefore, it provides ample motion range; however, it may not be the best choice for users over 6’3″ (190 cm). However, it does not have an incline system, so the elliptical path’s position and stride length are non-adjustable.
The machine’s pedals are attached to two durable steel bars. The pedal trays are thermoplastic material, rated for 265 lbs (120 kg) for a maximum user weight capacity. They have a textured surface and guards on the inner and front sides for improved foot stability. However, they do not have any extra cushioning or articulations and are non-adjustable.
This SNODE elliptical machine has a step-up pedal height of approx. 9″ (23 cm). Conversely, the pedals stand at approx. 16″ (40 cm) above floor level when they are at their highest point. Therefore, using the machine in a room with a ceiling is at least 20″ (51 cm) higher than the tallest user.
E20 Drive and resistance
The SNODE E20 magnetic elliptical trainer has a manual magnetic resistance system. Therefore, it does not require a power cord, adapter, or an external power source. However, the machine cannot adjust its pedal resistance automatically, and the included monitor does not have pre-set workout programs.
The unit’s resistance system consists of an internal magnetic brake attached to the flywheel system and the tension knob at the top of the front upright frame bar. By turning the knob, the brake changes its position to the flywheel, increasing or decreasing the magnetic field’s intensity, leading to more or less pedal resistance.
The main advantage of the magnetic resistance system is that the brake does not touch the flywheel, so there is no friction between the resistance elements. Thus, the pedaling motion is very smooth and quiet. Also, you won’t have to worry about brake pad replacements or the wear and tear of the brake.
As opposed to the E25, the E20 elliptical only offers eight tension settings. The lowest level generates little resistance, which is excellent for conditioning and recovery training. The 8th level, on the other hand, provides significantly more resistance, simulating a hill climb and giving you the possibility to train on a higher level.
The weight of the internal flywheel is 22 lbs (10 kg). It is perimeter-weighted for improved inertia. It also allows pedaling in reverse. Therefore, you can put some diversity into your workouts.
Lastly, this elliptical trainer comes equipped with a belt drive system. It uses a heavy-duty poly-v belt highly resistant to abrasion and stretching. The main advantage of a belt drivetrain is that it does not require any lubrication. It also generates less vibration than a chain, contributing to the overall smoothness of the ride.
Fitness monitor
The fitness monitor included with the SNODE E20 does not have pre-set workout programs. Unfortunately, it also does not have Bluetooth or other online connectivity features and is not compatible with fitness apps such as the SNODE E20i model.
It’s a simple fitness monitor that tracks time, distance, speed, calories, and pulse. Unfortunately, the speed and distance are in mph and miles; there is no option for setting them to metric units. Also, the pulse reading function is grip contact only; the console cannot read your pulse from a wireless heart rate chest strap.
The console is easy to use. It has three buttons: Mode, Set, and Reset. The Mode button allows you to scroll through the workout metrics and select the one you want to view on display.
It also has a Scan Mode, which you can choose the same way. When the Scan Mode is selected, the console rotates all the workout metrics showing each one for a few seconds.
The Set button allows the creation of workout goals for time, distance, and calories burned. After specifying a goal, the monitor will count down from the selected value until it reaches zero. And finally, the Reset button covers the reset function of the monitor. By pressing this button, you can clear all the values on the monitor to zero.
The fitness monitor is battery-powered, and it requires two AAA batteries. It begins tracking when you start pedaling or press one of the buttons. It also turns off automatically after a few minutes of inactivity on the elliptical.
The fitness monitor also integrates a device holder. It consists of a small shelf placed below the controls, which can support any smartphone or tablet. However, the monitor does not have ports for your device (no AUX, no USB).
E20 Assembly and Maintenance
The base frame of the machine with all the drive and resistance elements comes pre-assembled. However, the rest of the parts do require user assembly. You will have to attach the two base bars, the pedals, the front upright frame bar, the moving arms, the fixed handlebars, and the fitness monitor and connect the tension and the monitor wires.
Therefore, it may take more than an hour of your time, but the task is relatively simple. The manual provides all the necessary instructions and tools for assembly included with the machine.
Once assembled, you don’t have to worry too much about maintenance. All you have to do is keep your elliptical clean, wipe off any sweat that may drop on the frame at the end of the workout, and periodically check for loose parts and retighten them. The internal components should not need any maintenance for an extended time.
Pros
- Fairly sturdy frame – can support users up to 265 lbs;
- Adjustable levelers on the rear stabilizer;
- Transport wheels on the front base bar;
- Mobile arms with an ergonomic design and oval grips at the top;
- Fixed grips with pulse sensors;
- Smooth and quiet belt drive system;
- Oversized pedals with front and inner guards for improved foot stability;
- Eight levels of magnetic resistance;
- Fitness monitor that can track time, distance, calories, pulse, and speed;
- Goal setting functions for time, distance, and calories;
- Device holder included;
- Quiet operation;
- Easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance is required.
Cons
- A tablet placed on the device holder will cover the fitness monitor LCD;
- No backlight on the fitness monitor LCD;
- No bottle holder.
SNODE E20 Magnetic Elliptical Trainer Summary
The SNODE E20 is a read-drive magnetic elliptical trainer made for home use. It has an 8-level manual magnetic resistance system, a solid crankset and pedals with a maximum weight limit of 265 lbs (120 kg), and a fitness monitor that tracks time, distance, calories, speed, and pulse.
Moreover, it’s a decent trainer, great for light to high-intensity cardio workouts, muscle toning, stamina development, interval training, and weight loss.
I hope you found this article helpful and informative. Would you please speak up if you have anything you’d like to share on the topic or any opinions about my website? I look forward to your comments, questions, and the sharing of ideas.
Please note you should consult your physician to determine if you have any medical or physical conditions that could put your health and safety at risk or prevent you from using the equipment properly. In addition, your physician’s advice is essential if you are taking medication that affects your heart rate, blood pressure, or cholesterol level.
Hey Robert, this is an excellent review for this cardio machine. I wanted to buy some cardio equipment for my home purposes, and I can learn more about the equipment from your page. Thank you for providing such helpful information by listing the pros and cons, giving a lovely review about this product.
Hi Raja, thanks for stopping by. I’d be more than happy to help in your search for exercise equipment. So please let me know, and thank you for your kind words.
Kind regards, Robert
This machine would be a fantastic workout for arms, shoulders, hips, and legs. I like that we can train while watching Netflix. That would be great since I don’t have much time to go to the gym as before. This elliptical seems quite sturdy. I like it.
I am surprised how much more work I have now compared to 2 years ago. But I can not neglect exercising.
Hi Ann, thanks for stopping by. Don’t neglect exercising. Once a person loses muscles, it’s hard to get them back. But, it doesn’t take a lot of time each day. That’s why I like HIIT training so much. Sixteen minutes a day. Who doesn’t have sixteen minutes to spare?
Do you have any exercise equipment at home? If not, this SNODE E16 elliptical would be a great place to start. Would you please let me know if I can be of any assistance? I’d be happy to help.
Kind regards, Robert
Thankfully the Snode E16 Elliptical is one such machine. Yes, it is a budget elliptical, so we can’t expect too much, but it’s not super cheap, which is a good thing as it allows for a longer stride length and a more durable build. The Snode boasts a whisper-quiet magnetic resistance system that’s perfect for home use.
Hi Emmanuel, thanks for stopping by. Would you please let me know if I can assist you with the SNODE E16 elliptical or any other exercise equipment? I’m always happy to help.
Kind regards, Robert
As someone who has recently undergone hip replacement surgery, I’ve been looking for something to exercise my glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves without harsh impact. Finally, I may have found it with the SNODE E20 Magnetic Elliptical Trainer.
Its eight levels of manual magnetic resistance and movable handlebars mean that I can set it at a very gentle level to get my operated leg back in shape. Then, I could gradually increase it as my leg, and glute muscles regain condition.
And I know appearance isn’t essential, but it looks good too.
The only problem is that when I checked Amazon for the price, it was currently unavailable, though there were listed several alternatives. Can you recommend any of these instead?
Hi Phil, thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts with us. I recommend the Niceday CT11 Elliptical. It’s a medium-priced elliptical that has 16 levels of magnetic resistance.
Would you please let me know if I can assist you with any other exercise equipment? I’m always happy to help.
Kind regards, Robert