The GGR Expert Panel is a network of specialized health and fitness professionals who help ensure we present the most accurate information to our readers. This includes physicians, certified trainers, elite-level coaches, and more. Learn more about our experts.
The GGR Expert Panel is a network of specialized health and fitness professionals who help ensure we present the most accurate information to our readers. This includes physicians, certified trainers, elite-level coaches, and more. Learn more about our experts.
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.
In the last few years, an overwhelming number of people finally realized what we’ve known for a long time: working out at home rules. More than ever, exercise enthusiasts are building gyms right in their own houses.
A “home gym” could refer to an all-in-one squat rack, a cable cross machine, smart home gym equipment, and any other piece of equipment that essentially works the majority of your muscle groups. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the multitude of options available, so we put together a list of the best home gym machines.
Our team has put more than 50 home gym machines through our hands-on testing. Our expert product reviewers include certified personal trainers, elite-level athletes, and longtime fitness enthusiasts. When looking at home gyms, we rate products on a scale of 1 to 5 in categories that include the following:
Construction: We favor high-grade steel and quality weldings over plastic.
Versatility: Our testers evaluate the range of exercises they can perform as well as the different fitness levels the product caters to.
Performance: We rate each home gym on whether it delivers on its ability to deliver a full-body workout.
Value: Using market data, we score a product on its value proposition at its listed price.
We’ve been doing this for quite some time, and as a result, we’ve become pretty passionate about everything home gym-related. Seriously, you should see some of the back-and-forth discussions we’ve had on cross-training shoes, barbells, and even protein powder.
Our expert product testers, who include certified personal trainers and coaches, use a multi-point testing methodology to determine average ratings out of 5 stars.
Type
Power rack
Squat rack/functional trainer
Functional trainer
Foldable squat rack
Cable machine
All-in-one smart gym
Portable functional trainer
Portable cable trainer
Functional trainer
Foldable machine
Functional home gym
Footprint
58.1″ L x 48.5″ W x 85″ H
21.5″ L x 5.25″ W x 50.9” H
54.6″ L x 59″ W x 81″ H
44” L x 64” W x 82” H
53” W x 29.25” D x 89” H
25.1″ L x 28.5″ W x 80.9″ H
1.25″ L x 0 .71″ W x 1.85″ H
10” L x 19” W x 1” H
12.71″ L x 5.49″ W x 3.94″ H
61.2” L x 69.7” W x 83.8” H
23″ L x 30″ W x 60″ H
53″ L x 49″ W x 83.25″ H
Resistance
N/A (max 700 lbs)
(max Up to 250 lbs)
Weight stack or plate-loaded (max 300 lbs)
Weight stack (max 200 lbs)
N/A (max 1,000 lbs)
Weight stack (max 250 lbs)
Magnetic (max 100 kg total)
Band resistance (max 300 lbs)
Magnetic resistance (max 200 lbs)
(max 150 or 225 lbs)
Bands (max N/A)
Manual (max 210 or 410 lbs)
Subscription?
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Accessories
Pin-pipe safeties and j-cups
Handles, bar, rope, bench, foam roller, mat
N/A
Short bar, long bar, ankle strap, dual stirrup handles, rope handles, and single and double D-handles
This is a durable, affordable power rack that makes a great foundation for any home gym
Value Shoppers
This is very affordable compared to many other racks
Strength Athletes
With a rackable weight capacity of 700 pounds, this rack is strong enough for most lifters
Pros
Good balance between value and versatility
Shown to exceed durability and weight capacity expectations
Budget-friendly
Multiple color options
Cons
Competitors at this price range or less
Assembly can take some time as it is largely bolted together
Dimensions
48.5″ D x 58.1″ L x 85″ H
Accessories
Compatible with plenty of accessories and rack attachments
Weight Capacity
Up to 700 pounds
The REP Fitness PR-1100 is, in our opinion, one of the best value squat racks on the market for those just starting a home gym or squat/bench less than 700 LB. In our review, we’ve found that this is a stable power rack with many features taken from racks twice its price. This includes upright color options, a multi-grip pull-up bar, UHMW j-cups, and numbered uprights. If you’re trying to build a budget home gym, this is an excellent option, just be aware that you may want to upgrade in the future.
We’re big fans of the REP Fitness Power Racks, and while the PR-1100 is definitely one of the brand’s most basic setups, that’s kind of the beauty of it. With a low price tag, it’s affordable for most budgets and built to last, earning a 4.5 out of 5 rating for value, making it a great piece of home gym equipment and our pick for the best home gym overall.
Coop Mitchell, founder of Garage Gym Reviews, has used and tested nearly all of REP’s power racks. “The PR-1100 will be more than enough for most people,” he says. “It’s not the same level of quality or durability as their higher-end racks, but it’s much cheaper and is a tremendous starter rack. I also like that they add colors.”
You can easily (and fairly affordably) add the accessories you need without paying for things you won’t use. REP offers add-ons and power rack attachments such as weight storage, a lat/low row attachment, dip bar, and landmine.
However, this is a standard rack, so there are a host of other accessories from other companies that would likely fit in just fine. With ample options to take your training in any direction, this rack earns a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5 rating for available attachments.
Want more customization? You get four color options on this rack, many of which can also be found on REP Fitness’ adjustable and flat benches, so you can make your home gym look the way you want it to.
The PR-1100 has a weight rating of 700 pounds, which is more than enough for most of us mere mortals. It’s also fairly compact, with a footprint that’s roughly 4-feet-by-4-feet and earns 4 out of 5 stars for its footprint.
While most reviewers say the PR 1100 is easy to assemble, there were a few who pointed out that the wrench that REP sends isn’t great, and using their own tools simplified the setup process. GGR Operations Manager Sam “AsSAMbly” Presley, who put this rack together, cautions that you should wait until the entire power rack is assembled before tightening down the bolts. “This allows the rack to settle to the floor first and help prevent it from excessively wobbling back and forth,” he says.
This wall-mounted trainer doesn’t take up much space, and offers plenty of versatility
Value Shoppers
This is expensive, but if you have the space and budget, it’s a great machine
Intermediate Lifters
The max weight of 250 pounds will be plenty for beginner to intermediate lifters, though stronger users may need more resistance
Pros
AI features
Smart home gym
Versatile
Small footprint
Cons
Expensive
Requires an additional membership
Dimensions
21.50″ W x 50.9″ H x 5.25” D
Accessories
Handles, bar, rope, bench, foam roller, mat
Resistance
Up to 250 pounds
The Tonal 2 is a complete smart home gym that offers versatility in a compact piece of equipment, but at a high price.
The Tonal 2 is a technology-driven home gym that we believe is just the start of an electronic boom in gym equipment. It’s a wall-mounted screen with cable arms attached, turning this futuristic device into a full-body workout machine. As you exercise, a personal trainer puts you through a guided workout where you can see how the exercises should be performed. Tonal uses AI to assess your form and adjust the weights as you go.
Several members of our team have used the original Tonal for hundreds of combined workouts, and we gave the programming a near-perfect 4.75 out of 5. “I really liked Free Lift (the custom workouts), because I could pick whatever I wanted to work on,” says Coop Mitchell, founder of Garage Gym Reviews. “I’ve done a few of the live classes. I think it’s still new and they are still figuring some things out, so I still prefer the regular programming.”
One unique feature is that the machine provides auto-powered weight suggestions, which can take the guesswork out of strength and resistance training. You’ll initially take the full-body strength assessment to help the Tonal set the correct weight for you on each exercise, though you have the option to turn the feature off and manually input your own data.
At just over 4 feet height-wise and as a wall-mounted workout machine, the Tonal itself doesn’t take up a lot of room and could potentially be great for small spaces, earning 4.75 out of 5 for it’s footprint. However, you need more than 7 feet around your machine in order to use the cables. There are specific requirements regarding installing the Tonal, so the company sends professionals to deliver and install the equipment.
The Tonal 2 has been upgraded to provide up to 250 pounds of resistance, compared to the original Tonal’s 200-pound limit, which we love to see, earning it 4.5 out of 5 for its resistance. It also has a new Aero feature for HIIT classes.
The price tag starts at $4,295 before purchasing the recommended accessories, and you could probably get it on sale during Black Friday or Labor Day holidays, but you can also check out our Tonal coupon page for more savings. If you own the original Tonal, you can also trade it in and receive $1,000 towards the purchase of the Tonal 2.
To read more about the original Tonal, read Tonal Smart Home Gym review, or watch Coop’s video below to hear his thoughts on the upgraded Tonal 2.
Plate loaded or 210 pound weight stack, with a 300-pound cable capacity
Warranty
Limited lifetime warranty
Home Gym Owners
This versatile trainer acts as both a functional trainer and squat rack
Value Shoppers
This is very affordable given it’s versatility and function
Strength Athletes
A functional trainer allows users to perform a variety of isolation movements, and it can also be used as a squat rack
Pros
Space-saving design
Plate-loaded and weight stack options
Compatible with some rack attachments
Durable aluminum pulleys
Cons
Bolting hardware not included
Dimensions
54.6″ L x 59″ W x 81″ H
Accessories
Two nylon handles, a lat pulldown bar, and a short straight bar
Resistance
Plate-loaded or 210lb weight stack
The Bells of Steel All-in-One Home Gym is a compact functional trainer that can double as a power rack.
What our tester says:
“It is a little bit deeper than some racks that are out there, but for what it actually does, I think it’s actually a decent size.”
Our top choice for this list had to be the Bells of Steel All-in-One Home Gym since it combines two of the most versatile pieces of equipment into one: a squat rack and a functional trainer. This combination unit allows you to lift heavy whether you pick a plate-loaded trainer or one with a 210-pound weight stack, can be customized with your favorite rack attachments, comes with a multi-grip pull-up bar, and has a compact footprint that should fit in most workout spaces.
“It is a little bit deeper than some racks that are out there, but for what it actually does, I think it’s actually a decent size,” says Coop Mitchell, founder of Garage Gym Reviews.
The company uses aluminum pulleys, which provide for buttery smooth movements whether you’re doing triceps pushdowns or cable flyes (other BOS products have earned between a 4 and 5 out of 5 for cable smoothness). You get a 2:1 pull ratio on the side pulleys (meaning 10 pounds really feels like 5) and a 1:1 ratio on the center pulley.
“For something to be at the more budget end cost-wise for a stack version, to be able to have that feature is money,” says Coop.
As mentioned, you have the choice between a traditional weight stack (similar to the type you’d see in a commercial gym) or a plate-loaded trainer. The cables have a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds, so you could load these up with weight plates if you have a few extra lying around.
Or, you can put those plates on a barbell held up on the trainer’s uprights, which are 2.3-inch-by-2.3-inch with 5/8-inch holes. You can also use other attachments traditionally put on power racks, such as seal row pads, dip bars, and more. Not sure which attachments will fix this rack? Check out our full power rack attachment guide to find out.
While it will still take up a good amount of room, the Bells of Steel All-in-One is more compact than similar machines. Taller people may have difficulties getting a full range of motion on pull-ups due to the 80-inch height, but those who can reap its full benefits will love the multi-grip pull-up bar. Plus, it’s backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
The final price for this home gym will depend on the customizations you add to it, since BOS offers other attachments for this unit, but it’s going to cost less than similar models offered by companies like Rogue Fitness or Sorinex.
One more important note: This unit must be bolted to the ground for stability.
This compact functional trainer will fit well in most home gyms
Value Shoppers
This isn’t cheap, but it’s versatile and includes a variety of accessories
Strength Athletes
A functional trainer allows users to perform a variety of isolation movements, making it a great choice for anyone training for strength and hypertrophy
Pros
Heavy 200-pound stacks (100-pound working weight) with a 2:1 ratio
Aluminum pulleys
Low starting weight of 20 pounds (10 lb working weight)
Competitive price point
Cons
Would’ve preferred a taller option (but the 82-inch height allows it to fit in home gyms with low ceilings)
Only comes with 1-year warranty
The unit can shake when using the top end of the stack, but not enough to be concerned
Dimensions
82” H x 64” W x 44” D
Accessories
Short bar, long bar, ankle strap, dual stirrup handles, rope handles, and single and double D-handles
Resistance
Dual 200-lb stacks (2:1 pulley ratio)
The Titan Fitness Functional Trainer is much like the functional trainer you’d find in a commercial gym, in that it uses commercial-grade materials, but comes in a home gym footprint.
What our tester says:
“While there’s more affordable options out there, I think paying the extra money is worth it for a more high-quality machine.”
The Titan Fitness Functional Trainer looks and feels similar to the cable machines we’ve seen in countless commercial and hotel gyms. Does that mean it’s good for home gym use as well? We think so, and here are a few reasons why.
GGR’s founder Coop Mitchell used this cable machine for full-body exercises for back, chest, and legs. He rated it a perfect 4 out of 5 for its smooth operation. “I personally think it’s a great value for those looking to add a compact and high-quality functional trainer to their home gym,” he says in our Titan Fitness Functional Trainer review.
While it feels durable and looks to be mostly made of steel, Titan doesn’t specify what gauge they use in their construction and there’s only a 1-year warranty on all the parts. Coop has had his for many years and hasn’t noticed anything too worrisome, and many of the customer reviews we’ve read through say the same.
On the bright side, the functional trainer uses aluminum pulleys that allow for smoother movements and are more durable compared to plastic pulleys.
It’s also incredibly versatile, with 20 different height adjustments and dual 200-pound weight stack that allow you to perform dozens of different exercises for a full-body workout. The weight stacks have a 2:1 ratio, meaning the max weight of 200 pounds actually only produces 100 pounds of force but that should be enough for the movements you’d be doing with this machine.
There’s a little bit of shaking or wobbling at heavier weights, and Coop rates the overall stability a 3.5 out of 5. This isn’t concerning and doesn’t feel unsafe; we’ve just tested machines that don’t shake as much, so we dropped the score a bit.
In addition to the two ergonomic D-handles, you’ll also get a short bar, long bar, ankle strap, dual stirrup handles, rope handles, and single and double D-handles. That gives you ample choices for training all body parts, leading to an impressive versatility score of 4.5 out of 5.
“While there’s more affordable options out there, I think paying the extra money is worth it for a more high-quality machine,” Coop says.
This is a wall-mounted foldable rack that only takes up 4 inches of wall space when folded.
Customizable Options
Customize your rack to look exactly how you want it, down to the color of the uprights
Those on a Budget
At under $1,000, this is a heavy-duty rack that won’t break the bank.
Pros of the PRx Profile Squat Rack
When folded it is the best space saving rack on the market with a folded depth of 9″.
It is mounted to the wall and it folds up which means you have space when you are working out or when you need the garage for other things.
We dropped 500 LB on the rack to see if it would stay in the wall and it did. We were blown away and thankfully the wall wasn’t.
If you have a smaller garage or home gym space then the size and accompanying storage features make it the perfect rack.
Cons of the PRx Profile Squat Rack
If the studs in your garage are unevenly set, this rack can be more difficult to install.
If your ceiling is not high enough, 90″ or higher, then the rack will have to be modified.
While it is high quality, it is expensive and you pay mainly for the space-saving features.
Product Dimensions
52” W x 39.5” D x 90” or 96” H
Hole Size
5/8″
Materials
11-gauge 3×3 steel
Finish
Powder coat
If you are looking for a high-quality space-saving squat rack, then the PRx Profile PRO Squat Rack is the one we would recommend. Just a quick perusal of the reviews will show you that it is high quality, easy to install, and most importantly takes up less space than any other squat rack on the market. If you have space for the Rogue or Titan power rack offerings, they have many more features and accessories for about the same price. However, if the most important thing in your decision-making process is space, then this is the squat rack for you. We prefer the PRO rack over the standard Profile, but either works well.
What our tester says:
“The only instability came during side-to-side movements, but other than that Coop felt nothing for the most part while using the rack or kipping pull-up bar.”
The PRx Profile PRO Squat Rack is a foldable squat rack that has all the essentials an aspiring CrossFitter needs—a pull-up bar on which you can perform kipping movements, a 1,000-pound weight capacity, and a compact profile that earns a space-saving rating of 4.8 out of 5.
The rack can be ordered with one of three different pull-up bars for no additional cost, and we recommend the kipping bar for those who love CrossFit.
A foldable squat rack is great for CrossFitters who may need more room in their home gyms for workouts. Coop Mitchell, GGR’s founder, has used the Profile Rack and says it’s extremely easy. “Very simply, you pull it down if you want to use it, and when you’re done, you put it back up,” he says. “The reason you purchase a rack like this is because this is the best portable, stowaway rack on the market.”
CrossFit athletes don’t use squat racks quite as often as other strength athletes, but the squat has universal applications for just about every fitness medium. Plus, the kipping bar can be used for all types of bodyweight movements, from muscle-ups to toes-to-bar.
“There’s really no like forward and back shake when you do CrossFit movements on this rack,” Coop says. “There’s only a little bit of side-to-side sway.”
Priced just under $1,000, you’ll have plenty of money for other purchases. As a result, this compact rack earns a rock-solid value score of 4.3 out of 5. Plus, we can’t forget the folding feature, which only takes up 4 inches of wall space. That’s a win, regardless of how you train.
PRx includes plastic feet to avoid any scratches on your home gym flooring and comes with J-cups for easy barbell storage. And you don’t have to take our word for it: This rack has more than 280 5-star customer reviews.
This versatile machine allows users to perform a variety of cable exercises
Budget Shoppers
This is very affordable given it’s versatility and function
Strength Athletes
This cable machine is a great way to supplement your barbell and dumbbell training
Pros
Compact
210-lb weight stack
Smooth aluminum pulleys
30 handle height options
Cons
Assembly can take a few hours
Must be bolted down
Dimensions
Short: 27.5” D x 25” W x 80.5” H, Tall: 27.5” D x 25” W x 84.5” H
Accessories
Two nylon handles
Resistance
210 pound weight stack
An affordable and compact cable machine that can be used for hundreds of exercises.
What our tester says:
“This is a home gym owner’s dream product.”
The Bells of Steel Cable Tower with Weight Stack can truthfully be used by people of all fitness levels, but we find it best for beginners because of its versatility and ideal weight range for people trying to get into a fitness routine. For versatility, this earns 4 out of 5.
You can perform all types of the best cable machine workouts thanks to 33 height adjustments and two included handles. There are also a large number of attachments available, such as y-dip bar, belt squat, and close grip attachment.
The 210-pound weight stack works on a 2:1 pulley ratio, so it’s really only 105 pounds of force, which should accommodate beginners. The plate stack also adjusts in 10-pound increments, and we give it 5 out of 5 for the weight limit.
GGR founder Coop, who extensively tested the BoS Cable Tower, called it “a home gym owner’s dream product.” Why? It’s affordable, is extremely versatile, and is highly customizable, earning 4 out of 5 stars for the value. Also, as Coop did, you can actually combine the plate-loaded version and the weight-stack version of this machine as you advance, giving you a fully functional trainer with a 1:1 pulley ratio.
You can choose from two height options. Coop said he thinks the height of the short tower is slightly low, but it would work great for basements with low ceilings.
“The uprights are designed as 2-inch-by-2-inch with a specific hole size that does not work with many other companies who use a thinner gauge steel and a 1-inch hole,” Coop points out. In other words, you’ll need to purchase the attachments from Bells of Steel, not elsewhere.
Also, note that it is recommended that the tower be bolted down for stability.
This versatile and compact machine allows users to perform a variety of cable exercises
Value Shoppers
This isn’t cheap, but for those looking for a digital functional trainer, it’s a significantly cheaper than something like the Tonal 2
Strength Athletes
This cable machine is a great way to supplement your barbell and dumbbell training
Pros
All-in-one piece of fitness equipment
No subscription fee to access workouts (!)
Can support strength training, cardio, and HIIT
Guided instruction is good for beginners
Cons
Maximum weight of 220 lbs (still enough for most people though)
Limited workout library compared to other options
Resistance mechanism glitches/catches during use
Dimensions
4.1’ L x 2.3’ W x 6’ H
Accessories
Plenty of extra accessories available in various upgrade packages
Resistance
Up to 110 pounds per side
The Speediance Gym Monster Home Gym is an expensive option for a smart and compact functional trainer.
What our tester says:
“This is a high-tech piece of equipment that’s offered at a lower cost. I think that’s great.”
Editor’s note: Speediance has released the Gym Monster 2 with a few upgrades, but we’ve only tested the original so far, which is still available.
The Speediance Gym Monster will make it feel like you have an entire commercial gym in your home while only taking up less space than a Queen-sized mattress. It packs so much versatility in a compact footprint by utilizing digital weight capable of generating up to 110 pounds of resistance per side, similar to Tonal but at a much more affordable cost.
“This is a high-tech piece of equipment that’s offered at a lower cost,” says Cooper Mitchell, GGR founder. “I think that’s great.”
If 110 pounds per arm doesn’t sound like a lot to you, then you’ve probably never lifted with digital weights before. Spoiler alert: It’s different, and often more difficult than your traditional free weights. Because this is a more budget-friendly home gym compared to Tonal and other smart home gym equipment, the cables don’t feel as smooth. “They hitch and the resistance can be uneven when using the barbell attachments,” Coop says in his Speediance review. He rates the workout experience a 3.5 out of 5 for this reason.
When it comes to versatility, we rate it a 5 out of 5 because it can be used for just about any type of exercise you want. The base package comes with a workout bench and a few attachments (such as an adjustable barbell, triceps rope, and D-handles) but you can also add a rowing bench. On top of that, the Speediance app—which you can stream on the included monitor—offers bodyweight, HIIT, and yoga classes.
You can also change up how the resistance feels in your hand. For example, you can change it from barbell mode to chain mode. “You can feel a real difference between the two modes,” says Sam Presley, GGR’s operations manager and an expert product tester.
Even though it’s not cheap and has a price tag over $2,000, we love the features and still give this 4 out of 5 stars for the value.
This compact and portable trainer can be used nearly anywhere
Budget Shoppers
This is very affordable and should fit most budgets
Those On The Go
This is extremely portable, so if you like to travel with your stuff, this is easy to bring to the park or on a road trip
Pros
Can create up to 300 pounds of force (up to 600 if you get the Elite Band, sold separately)
Free 12-week workout program with high-quality workout and nutrition advice
Bar has great knurling
No assembly necessary
Cons
Platform’s embedded rollers don’t allow bands to roll during lift, but that’s nitpicky
Only 1-year warranty for the bands
Quite pricey at around $550 (financing available)
Dimensions
0” L x 19” W x 1” H ground plate, 21.5” L x 12.5” D bar
Accessories
N/A
Resistance
Up to 300 pounds of resistance, upgradeable to 600 pounds
A compact piece of strength training equipment that combines the best parts of resistance bands and barbells into one.
What our tester says:
“It’s got some girth to it, which I don’t mind on deadlifts. There’s no bending this thing, it’s extremely stiff.”
Strong things come in small packages, and if you don’t believe us you’ve probably never tried out the X3 Bar before. The entire system weighs less than 20 pounds, and the ground plate used to generate force is only 10 inches long and 19 inches wide (the bar is 21.5 inches long). This easily earns 4.5 out of 5 for its footprint and portability.
So it can be taken just about anywhere, and Garage Gym Reviews founder Coop has done so on road trips. But how good is it? Coop, who used the X3 for multiple workouts, said: “Small kit. Big impact. Get some.” And you’ll certainly be able to get some gains with the 300 pounds of force capable with the X3 Bar (600 pounds if you purchase the Elite Band).
Dr. John Jaquish invented the bar by combining the benefits of the best resistance bands with a barbell, which causes your body to recruit more muscle groups than a band or bar alone, which leads to more effective muscle growth.
Some may balk at the $550 price tag, and we understand that, but if you have the budget for it, we think it’s well worth it and give the value a 3 out of 5. You can also join the X3 Bar Customers Only Group on Facebook for tips and tricks.
“The bar has some great knurling, better than some full-sized barbells,” Coop says. We also noticed in our testing that the bands are dipped in layered latex to prevent any breakage, earning this home gym a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5 for durability.
The home gym system also comes with a 12-week workout program that shows you how to make the most of the X3 Bar, along with expert nutrition advice.
The X3 is advertised as having the same benefits as a squat rack (so you can do benches, back squats, and more with it), but you can also perform moves that you’d typically do on any cable machine with it as well. We did find it difficult to replicate a pull-up movement, though commenters on our YouTube review said with some carabiners and creativity, it can be done.
12-month warranty with extended warranties available for an extra fee
Home Gym Owners
This compact and portable trainer can be used anywhere you can install your mount
Value Shoppers
It’s not cheap, but it’s portable and extremely versatile
Barbell Athletes
One of the Voltra’s mounting kits is designed for use with a power rack, so if you regularly train with a barbell, you probably have access to a compatible rack
Pros
Portable
Up to 200 pounds of resistance
Real-time data tracking
Can be brought through airport security
Cons
Expensive
Only has a one-year warranty
Dimensions
12.71” L x 5.49” W x 3.94” H
Accessories
Requires a mounting kit (not included)
Resistance
5-200 lbs (eccentric and concentric)
The Beyond Power Voltra I packs all the benefits of a cable machine into a portable design, though it comes with a high price tag.
What our tester says:
“In my dream minamalist setup, I would have a squat rack, bar and weight plates, a bench, adjustable dumbbells, and the Voltra I.”
Attention bodybuilders: Eccentric training just got a whole lot better…and more compact. The Voltra I from Beyond Power is a portable cable trainer that attaches to a squat rack and allows for customizable eccentric and concentric loads. This means you can perform your favorite exercises with the exact resistance you want and need.
For example, you can use the 4-inch LCD touchscreen to program a Romanian deadlift to 100 pounds of resistance on the concentric (upward motion) and 175 pounds on the eccentric (downward motion). The small screen also enables you to track your reps, velocity, and power of each exercise. This feature is truly unique and something that can’t be replicated with resistance bands.
Cooper “Coop” Mitchell says the Volta is very durable, awarding it a 5 out of 5 in that category. “The design and engineering on this are top-notch,” he says. “The cable that comes with it is very sturdy, too. This is a synthetic cable that claims to be stronger than steel.”
The unit weighs just 13 pounds and is smaller than a shoe box, earning a 5 out of 5 for footprint and portability.
“This is the smallest unit on the market that provides this much resistance,” says Coop. “It’s also so fun to use and work into a modular garage gym system.”
The basic package of the Voltra will set you back about $2,000. It comes with one cable, sliding rack mount, and D-handle. With such an expensive price tag, you may like knowing that one Voltra cable delivers up to 200 pounds of resistance, there are no subscription fees.
Still, the high cost and fairly small set of accessories results in a value rating of 3 out of 5.
While the Voltra is highly customizable, keep in mind it’s intended to be used on a squat rack. You’ll get the best use from the Voltra if you have something to anchor it to. The sliding mount clamps to the uprights of a squat rack and moves up and down, much like a trolley on a functional trainer.
Lifetime frame, welds, and parts warranty ; 1-year upholstery, cables, and grips warranty
Home Gym Owners
This compact functional trainer is designed to fit in small spaces
Value Shoppers
It’s not cheap, but it’s very durable and versatile, especially for the small footprint
Strength Athletes
A functional trainer allows users to perform a variety of isolation movements, making it a great choice for anyone training for strength and hypertrophy
Pros
Compact and easy to store
Well-designed and versatile
Perfect for a gym looking for a space-saver
Cons
Reviews show that assembly is difficult for some
Expensive (especially the 225 LB stack)
Dimensions
61.2” L x 69.7” W x 83.8” H, or 34.9” L x 44.6” W x 83.8” H when folded
Accessories
T-grip short strap handles, chin-up/push-up assist strap, leg boot, squat harness, and snap hooks
Resistance
Dual 150-lb, 200-lb, or 225-lb stacks
The F9 Fold-Away Functional Trainer is a full trainer with a small footprint that can be easily stored. Its design is sturdy and versatile, it even comes with a handful of accessories to help you customize your workouts.
What our tester says:
“The folding feature is definitely the most notable element on this machine. It’s great for anyone who doesn’t want a functional trainer on display all the time.”
The Torque Fitness F9 Fold-Away Strength Trainer is for people looking to purchase only one piece of equipment that they can use for chest, back, and leg day. On top of the fact that each pulley gives you 94 inches of cable travel and there are 17 adjustment positions per upright, the pulleys can swivel which give you more room to do moves like bent-over cable rows or ab crunches.
To be clear, this is not the home gym for people who are looking to lift heavy weights. There are three weight stack options—150 pounds, 200 pounds, and 225 pounds—with a 2:1 ratio, meaning 50 pounds really feels like 25. That’s still enough weight for most home gym owners, but if you’re looking to PR in one of the three big lifts (bench, deadlift, and squat) you might want to look elsewhere on this list.
That said, the multiple adjustment positions and multi-grip pull-up bar are nothing to sneeze at. You’ll get a squat harness, straight bar, a pair of snap hooks, a pair of short strap handles, and a universal strap that can be attached to the weight stacks. The strap can be used for assisted chin-ups and dips, which are usually separate machines in a commercial gym. The accessories themselves are good quality, so we’ll give them a 4.5 out of 5 in that category.
Torque utilizes nylon pulleys instead of aluminum, so the cables aren’t as smooth but we still gave them a 4.5 out of 5 after trying them out.
The standout feature of this trainer, as GGR founder Cooper Mitchell explains in his Torque F9 Functional Trainer review, is the fold-away feature. Two doors close to hide the machine and optional stowable bench from children and pets, making it one of the safer home gyms. For the footprint and portability, we give this out of 5 stars.
Key Feature
Compact functional trainer with multiple adjustment points and accessories
Great For
Barbell and cable movements
Footprint
Open: 61.2” L x 69.7” W x 83.8” H Folded: 34.9” L x 44.6” W x 83.8” H
Uses bodyweight, or external weights (not included)
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
Home Gym Owners
This is a great upgrade for any home gym, allowing users to perform a variety of lower body movements
Budget Shoppers
This is very reasonably priced for how many exercises it offers
Athletes
This machine is designed for a wide variety of lower-body movements that can help improve strength and performance
Pros
9-in-1 workout functionality
ASTM-rated to support up to 500 lbs
Compact footprint when stored vertically: 22″ L x 22″ W x 60″ H
Easily adjustable color-coded knobs
Cons
30-day return policy
Leg developer sold separately
Dimensions
60″ L x 22″ W in use; 23″ L x 30″ W x 60″ H when stored vertically
Accessories
Includes GHD attachment
Resistance
Bodyweight resistance, but can be used with external resistance
The new-and-improved Freak Athlete Hyper Pro has many different uses including Nordic hamstring curls (with 14 different incline progressions), glute ham raises, GHD sit-ups, 45-degree back extensions, and hip thrusts. It’s designed to support folks ranging from 5 to 7 feet tall and offers 12 different eight adjustments with easy-to-read laser etched numbers.
What our tester says:
“If you’re starting a home gym, this is fantastic value. With everything that this can do, I’m a huge fan.”
If you’re wanting a compact solution to get plenty of lower body workouts in—including your lower back and posterior chain—you can’t go wrong with the Freak Athlete Hyper Pro. This machine boasts more than 20 exercises and converts into nine different machines, with a definite emphasis on leg work:
Nordic bench
Reverse hyper
Back extension
GHD machine
Hamstring curl
Decline sit-up
Hip thrust
Leg extension
Upper body trainer
Coop Mitchell, GGR founder and fitness equipment guru, says, “If you’re starting a home gym, this is fantastic value. With everything that this can do, I’m a huge fan.” He rates the value a 4.5 out of 5, and says it’s a huge step up from the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper GHD.
The functionality of each machine varies. Coop likes the Nordic bench most; it has the unique ability to not only incline the Nordic board, but also decline the board for those who need a greater challenge (although Nordic curls are plenty difficult enough). The back extension and GHD machines are decent as well; “they’re not as good as a standalone GHD, but it works quite well still,” adds Coop.
The upper body trainer uses straps (not included) that allows for some functional trainer-like movements, like curls and seated rows. It won’t compare to the amount of upper body exercises on a functional trainer, but it’s a nice addition if this is the only piece you have in your gym. “It’s definitely lower-body focused,” Coop adds. Still, it earns a 5 out of 5 for its versatility.
The construction isn’t the best, mostly that the powder coating and padding is OK at best, getting a 3.5 out of 5. Coop notes, though, that the machine is made to be more budget-priced, so at $1,600 for nine machines in one space, it’s a good value.
Key feature
9 different machines in 1 unit with 20+ exercises
Great for
Nordic curls, back extension
Footprint
60″ L x 22″ W in use; 23″ L x 30″ W x 60″ H when stored vertically
All-in-one machine that emphasizes upper body training
Weight Setings
Up to 210 pounds of resistance
Warranty
7-year warranty on the machine, 5-yeaer warranty on the rods
Home Gym Owners
This versatile machine allows users to perform a wide variety of exercises
Value Shoppers
This isn’t the cheapest machine, but it’s incredibly versatile
Pros
Over 70 different exercise combinations
Upgradable to 410 lbs of resistance
Cons
List of things we would like to see improved
Dimensions
63″ L x 49″ W x 83.25″ H
Accessories
Ab crunch harnass, 5-way hand grips
Resistance
Up to 210 pounds of power rod resistance
The Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym is an ideal option for anyone looking to make fitness straightforward. The Xtreme home gym system is a pulley system loaded with 210 pounds of resistance and the ability to perform everything from leg extensions to lat pulldowns.
What our tester says:
“I wouldn’t recommend doing supersets with this machine, or circuit training, just because you’ll have to take a moment to change cables and pipes, depending on the exercises.”
For a machine that’ll train your delts a bit more than your hamstrings, we like the BowFlex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym. The Xtreme 2 SE touts over 70 exercises in the space of one machine and has 210 pounds of resistance (which can be upgraded to 410 pounds of resistance). The 210-pound resistance may not be quite enough for some lifters’ leg workouts, but it’ll cover enough resistance for most people’s upper body exercise routines.
Our product tester notices that certain aspects of movements are limited—which is common in all-in-one trainers. “Many movements had a little bit of a limiting factor, either because you’d have to adjust your seat position, or the range of motion was cut a bit short.” Still, with the amount of exercises available, it earns a 4 out of 5 in versatility.
To adjust resistance, you simply change the cables to another pipe, which is easy, but can also be time-consuming. Our product tester says, “I wouldn’t recommend doing supersets with this machine, or circuit training, just because you’ll have to take a moment to change cables and pipes, depending on the exercises.”
Starting at $1,500, this is a pretty pricey machine, and the construction isn’t the most durable, earning a 3 out of 5. However, very few machines offer this level of versatility at this price point, earning it a 4 out of 5 for value.
Here are some other home gyms we’ve tested and looked into, and why they didn’t make the cut.
REP Fitness FT-3000 Compact Functional Trainer: This is a great option for those in smaller spaces, but there are concerns about it not being fully stable (it’s best if you bolt it to the ground) and the rods require some routine maintenance.
TRX Home2 System: We’re big fans of this suspension trainer, but when it came time to pick our favorites our top picks just had more versatility and muscle-building benefits than the TRX Home2 System.
Force USA G6 All-in-One Trainer: This is the little brother to the Force USA G20 All-in-One Trainer, and combines nine machines into one. So you don’t get as much versatility as the G20, and our thought was either go big or go home. That said, if you want to save a little money on an all-in-one trainer, the G6 is $2,000 cheaper than the G20.
Total Gym Apex G3: This machine is essentially an incline bench with cable pulleys, and while there’s nothing wrong with its concept we’re just not confident in its durability.
How We Tested the Best Home Gym Machines
We have used more than 50 home gyms: power cages, cable machines, functional trainers, workout mirrors, and more. Our team, which includes certified personal trainers, competitive weightlifters, and endurance athletes, have performed all kinds of workouts across the span of years on these machines. We use an in-depth equipment testing methodology to rate these machines on a scale of 1 to 5 across categories that include the following:
Durability
We look for machines with high weight capacities, enabling people to lift hundreds of pounds (if they want to). Our team also assesses the quality of the steel used, if a machine has a lot of plastic, and how it holds up over time and against hundreds of workouts.
Versatility
A key aspect of any home gym machine is its ability to deliver a full-body workout across different modalities. We favor machines that can hit every muscle group, and give bonus points to those that allow for workouts using different types of equipment: cables, barbells, attachments, and more.
Performance
Our testers personally use these machines to assess how they perform. If it’s a cable machine, does it run smoothly, or is there a catch? If it’s a squat rack, is it sturdy, or does it wobble? If it’s a smart machine, is the picture clear and does the AI actually work?
Value
Is the machine priced appropriately? Would it offer enough value to home gym owners?
Warranty
We always look at the warranty for a machine. These home gyms should be durable and built to last, and we favor companies that back their products with warranties of 5 years or longer.
Benefits of Home Gym Machines
A home gym – or functional trainer, power rack, virtual trainer, etc. – is a great way to take your workouts from bodyweight movements into loaded movements. Kettlebells, free weights, and resistance tubes are great, but you can fold all the benefits of these into one piece when purchasing a home gym.
The resistance training a home gym provides is vital for your physical health, as studies have shown1 that it can build muscle, promote bone development, and reduce low back pain even.
Plus, it saves you time traveling to and from the gym, it’s open 24/7, and you don’t have to wait for anyone else to be done using it like you would at a commercial gym.
How to Choose the Best Home Gym Machine for You
I created Garage Gym Reviews to help people like you use their money wisely to buy fitness equipment that I stand behind. I do the dirty work testing machines to find you your best fit. To determine the best home gym for your fitness goals, consider the following:
Budget
Before purchasing anything, I recommend mapping out how much you’re willing to spend total on home gym equipment. Maybe you’re willing to put in some money now and more later in the year. Whatever the scenario is for you, make sure you have a clear understanding of what is in your price range so you’re able to pick the best budget home gym for you.
Home gym equipment isn’t cheap, and prices can start at $600 and go up to thousands of dollars. I recommend looking at financing options when available if it isn’t realistic for you to pay thousands of dollars in one go. Home gyms like the Tonal (among others) offer financing at under $150 per month.
Exercise Style
This seems obvious, but figure out what types of exercises you want to do. Don’t buy a piece of workout equipment that you know deep down you won’t like using in the long run. Home gyms come in many forms: a basic power tower, cable resistance machines, benches with dumbbells, plate stack resistance functional trainers, etc. You can also find machines that offer a lot of versatility because they combine one or all of these things.
Some people are looking to build lower body strength while others want to develop all the muscle groups equally with a full-body workout. Before purchasing a home gym, research how many pounds of resistance the machine has and if it has the capability to hold more.
If you’re a more seasoned workout enthusiast, chances are you know exactly how much weight you need to build muscle. I recommend factoring in how much you want for lower body exercises because that’s likely a bigger number. If you are newer to weightlifting, you are likely okay with the standard 100 to 200 pounds of resistance that most quality machines provide.
Size
I recommend determining where you want to put your home gym before purchasing anything. I’m obviously partial to putting equipment in my garage, but you’ll need to decide what room or space is best for you. Consider the dimensions and weight of the machine when deciding where it will live.
Some home gyms are hundreds of pounds and extremely difficult to move. Others have wheels for easy storage or are wall-mounted and would need professional help to relocate. Are you willing to sacrifice some space for a larger home gym, or is it a non-negotiable that the machine is easily moveable?
Versatility
If you have a partner or family, chances are you’ll want to consult with them on the type of equipment they’d like to use. This is also a good time to ask about specific needs so everyone is able to use the machine.
Here are some things to consider for the comfort of everyone using the home gym:
Adjustability: Can it be adjusted to accommodate various heights?
Accessibility: Large print on screens, simple instructions for use
Ergonomics: Wide seats, padded barbells
Weight capacity: Can it accommodate the weight of all users?
Range of resistance: Does it have enough weight for everyone to use?
Additional Accessories For Home Gyms
In order to get the most out of your home gym, consider if the piece of fitness equipment you are purchasing has accessories or extras that would enhance your workout. If you want to bench press, you will need a bench. If you want to do lat pulldowns, you will need a straight or curved bar.
Don’t sweat being new to working out with a home gym, because many machines now come with fitness programming that will guide you through a variety of workouts with instructors. As mentioned above, these memberships usually cost money, which is something to keep in mind. The guided workout experience can be an easier way to exercise since there is no need to plan in advance.
FAQs
Are home gyms worth it for beginners?
I believe home gyms can be a great option for everyone and anyone, regardless of your fitness level. Having your own home gym eliminates a lot of excuses (not enough time, don’t want to drive, etc.) since it’s so convenient. My advice is to invest in equipment you feel sure you will use for years to come to get your best home workout. Additionally, you can find a number of machines that come with guided programming so you know how to do leg extensions or properly use a squat stand.
Why should I buy a home gym instead of getting a gym membership?
Think of it this way: you don’t have to leave your house to work out. This means you can comfortably wear your old shorts from high school with the hole in the butt and blast whatever music tickles your fancy. You won’t have to wait for someone to stop hogging the squat rack. Instead, you can focus on getting a great workout in the comfort of your own home gym vs gym membership. The cost upfront of a home gym can be daunting to some but the equipment pays for itself in the long run since you aren’t shelling out a monthly fee for a gym membership.
Who can benefit from a home gym?
There are tons of people who can benefit from home gyms, including those who prefer to exercise at home, anyone who wants to save money, and people who, due to a lack of time, are unable to attend the gym on a regular basis.
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