Sunny Motorized Under Desk Elliptical SF-E3626
A Solid, Quiet, Motorized Under Desk Elliptical
This product works best in automatic motor-assisted modes of operation which allow the user to enjoy a steady and comfortable pedal pace. In manual modes, it is difficult to maintain a comfortable smooth steady pace with this machine. If you are seeking a cardio workout, this machine is not for you and some other non-motorized product is recommended. The machine is best for those seeking mild desk activity to keep up leg blood circulation and for those with mobility challenges.
I needed a form of non-impact leg exercise to simulate walking motion without having to bear weight upon or over-exert my right leg which suffers from a long-term undetermined form of painful neuropathy. While the Sunny Motorized Under Desk Elliptical SF_E3626 User Manual specifically makes the legal disclaimer the "equipment is not suitable for therapeutic use", this newly introduced under desk motorized elliptical provides exactly the therapy I was seeking. As of this review, it is the only such motorized under desk elliptical or bike that can accomplish this.
Though the housing and pedals are made of plastic and the product is manufactured in China, the product is well made, solid and hefty with a built-in carry handle. The product is ONLY for use while sitting (NOT standing.) The pedals are large and comfortable covered with non-slip textured rubber, suitable for both shoes and barefeet. The unit has non-slip rubber feet, but a non-slip textured rubber mat is also included which is used underneath the unit with the textured side up. Operation is through a simple push-button panel which offers 3 speeds of forward or backward motor-assisted automatic operation or 3 resistance levels of non-assisted manual operation (while power is on). Additionally, there is a motor-assisted mode which automatically alternates between forward and backward pedaling in a choice of 5-6, 10-12, or 15-18 rotations forward alternated with the same number of rotations backward. Blue LED lights indicate the function selected. A circular blue LED display is mainly for show. Its active circular rotating patterns change with the function selected. A digital step counter counts steps up to 9999. The unit automatically shuts off power after 30 minutes with a 29 minute beep warning. At the warning beep, push any function button to keep it going. When the power is off or unplugged, the unit can be operated in a passive manual mode with a choice of 2 (NOT 3) resistance levels (lower resistance than powered manual mode.)
The product is very quiet, producing a soft "shush-shush" sound with each rotation. Motor-assist adds a very low level whirling sound beneath the "shush-shush". The unit beeps with every button push or warning. The only other sound is a relay "click" when the unit switches from forward to backward operation. It is perfect for an office environment, however, some sound sensitive users expecting total quiet might find these minor low level sounds distracting.
The product should only be stored or operated in a clean and dry indoor environment, away from direct sun or heat and not in dampness or high humidity. Keep liquids away from the control panel.
Cost-wise, the unit is a bit pricey, but I was able buy it at a large discount with a Presidents' Day discount price and coupon. The product is built well enough to justify a higher price than lesser quality mini/under desk bikes and ellipticals. Its motorized operation makes it unique.
I am comfortably using this elliptical under the table right now as I write this review. No problems at all with knee clearance. My only complaint is that the control panel buttons are not easy to reach while seated at a desk or table. When the 30 minute timer runs out, it is very awkward and annoying to reach under the table to push a button. Perhaps Sunny should have made the control panel detachable so it could sit atop a desk or table. Other than that, I have no complaints. It is, of course, too soon to make any comment about product durablity or how effective the exercise is with regard to my particular leg pain problem.