If you’ve ever sauntered through your local gym thinking to yourself, “Boy, I sure wish I could do lat pulldowns, overhead presses, and biceps curls on one magical machine,” we have good news. Functional trainers are versatile machines that resemble the best cable machines — weight stacks connected to pulleys with adjustable positions — but can incorporate even more, like power racks or Smith machines.
Utilizing the different angles made possible by the connected series of pulleys and cables, you can build strength in an efficient and, most importantly, safe way. Instead of loading up heavy weights on a barbell, you can simply adjust the pin on your weight stack. Instead of accidentally dropping that dumbbell on your toe, allow that weight to fall safely inside the stack. After hours of grueling tests, our team has hand-picked the best functional trainers for customers of varying fitness levels (and budget caps).
The 11 Best Functional Trainers for 2024
- Best Functional Trainer Overall: Force USA X20 Pro
- Best Commercial Functional Trainer: REP Fitness FT-5000
- Best Functional Trainer for Beginners: Titan Fitness Functional Trainer
- Best Versatile Functional Trainer: Beyond Power Voltra I
- Best Smart Functional Trainer: Tonal
- Best Functional Trainer with Bench: Life Fitness G7
- Best Budget Functional Trainer: Torque Fitness Anker 7
- Best Functional Trainer with a Smith Machine: Force USA G20 Pro
- Best Plate-Loaded Functional Trainer: Bells of Steel Plate Loaded Cable Tower 2.0
- Best Compact Functional Trainer: MAXPRO SC Portable Cable Machine
- Best High-End Functional Trainer: Gronk Fitness Functional Trainer
How We Tested and Chose the Best Functional Trainers
The BarBend team of fitness pros — certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, and even a USA Olympic weightlifter — has assembled and tested out dozens of functional trainers, noting how each adjustable pulley, attachment, and frame performs. We used a multi-point scale from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across categories like durability, available attachments, and value to bring you the whole picture. In addition to providing the specs, we’ve made an effort to describe our experiences on these machines, as well as who may benefit most from each one.
Since functional trainers can support such a wide array of movements, we sought to highlight machines with quality builds that feature aluminum pulleys, nylon cables, and steel frames. Many of our picks come with a number of attachments — triceps ropes, ankle straps, and built-in pull bars, among other tools — while others offer additional accessory packages for an added cost.
Attachments
Functional trainers are versatile by design — with the standard D-ring handles, these units support cable exercises like straight arm pulldowns, cable crunches, or biceps curls. If you decide to add more accessories to your collection, though, the versatility of your machine will only increase.
Most functional trainers come with handles (usually the classic D-ring style), while some options include triceps ropes, V-bars, close-grip triangles, ankle cuffs, or squat bars that attach to both sides of the machine. Some even integrate Smith machines that let you add squat variations or shoulder presses to your workouts.
Build Quality
With the exception of the compact and non-traditional options on our list, the frames on the functional trainers we selected are made of steel, with several featuring commercial-grade 11-gauge steel. We also paid close attention to the pulleys and cables, as well. We looked for durable aluminum pulleys, nylon cables, and high-end elements like laser-etched markings.
[Related: Best Power Racks]
Many pieces of home gym equipment, including functional trainers, offer separate warranties — usually for the frame, parts, and labor. Most of the products on this list have long — sometimes lifetime — warranties on their structural aspects, like the frame and weight stack, while the parts usually have a shorter warranty period of one to three years.
Cable Pulley Ratio
The cable pulley ratio on a functional trainer determines the amount of resistance you feel when performing an exercise. Most machines use 2:1 ratios, so for every pound of real weight in the stack, you’re actually only lifting half of that. Every two pounds of real weight equals one pound of “felt” weight (also referred to as resistance).
Value
While the functional trainers we picked range from $349.99 to $5,999, most of these options fall between roughly $2,500 to $3,500, which is standard when it comes to full-size functional trainers. We sought not only to accommodate budgets big and small with this price range, but also to highlight the wide variety of functional trainers on the market. Whether you’re starting a new bodybuilding program, easing into weightlifting, or need a machine you can travel with, we think each pick can offer a lot of value for the right athlete.
Best Functional Trainer Overall: Force USA X20 Pro
This power rack doubles as a cable machine with two 289-pound stacks for each cable. The basic package features 12 attachments, while the upgraded kit will bring the total to 18. The X20 is rated to hold up to 990 pounds, so even the most elite-level athletes can confidently hit their heavy lifts.
Specs
- Price: $4,249.99
- Dimensions: 91” H x 70” W x 86.5” D
- Accessories: J-Hooks, safety spotter arms, safety spotters, landmine, dual hook straight bar, lat pulldown bar, small straight bar, two D-ring handles, v-bar, nylon stirrup handles, ankle strap, pulldown rope, low row footplate
- Warranty: Lifetime structural
- Resistance: 289lbs
Pros
- This versatile beast of a machine features dual 289-pound weight stacks, an 11-gauge steel frame, and 17 included attachments.
- You can perform more than 400 different exercises using the D-ring handles, landmine attachment, low-row footplate, and other attachments.
- Along with the functional trainer, the power rack features flip-down safeties and spotter arms for heavy lifts.
Cons
- It takes up 42.05 square feet — way more than the average range of 18 to 25 square feet.
- It measures 7.5 feet tall — the average ceiling height is typically between 7 and 9 feet, so you’ll want to measure before purchase. (1)
- Assembly took three professionals over five hours.
- It costs roughly $750 more than the $2,500 to $3,500 average for functional trainers.
With a commercial-grade 11-gauge steel frame, a full power rack, and 17 included attachments — not to mention optional upgrades — we chose the Force USA X20 Pro as the best overall functional trainer. The Force USA X20 Pro uses dual 289-pound weight stacks, so with its 2:1 cable pulley ratio, you’ll have a combined available resistance of 289 pounds.
This all-in-one behemoth includes a full power rack, opening up even more possibilities for training, “[It operates as] an actual power rack, so there’s a ton of room for you to work within the actual rack,” says BarBend’s expert reviewer Jake Herod, NASM-CNC. Check out what else Herod had to say about the Force USA X20 Pro in his video review below.
Our tester rated its included accessories a 5 out of 5, but noted that, while 17 different attachments (including a low-row footplate and landmine attachment) is impressive, it’s in line with other options at this price point. Force USA also offers an upgrade kit with dip handles and jammer arms, though we think most athletes will be happy with the included options.
[Related: Best Landmine Exercises]
Since this machine is a functional trainer and power rack rolled into one, it’s not a surprise it’s going to eat up a lot of floor space — 42.05 square feet, to be exact. If you’re trying to visualize 42.05 square feet, imagine putting a king-size mattress in your training space. (2)
In fact, we opted for the professional assembly option (for an additional $849) and it still took a team of three men around five hours to put together. Our tester rated the delivery and set up 2 out of 5 and recommended bringing along some help. “I would definitely recommend tricking a friend into helping you or this could easily be a 30-hour build,” they said.
Given the $4,249.99 price tag for the Force USA X20 Pro — roughly $750 more than the average functional trainer — it’s clearly a huge investment. But for all the training options you’re getting, our tester rated its value a 4 out of 5. “If you have the space for it, and don’t want to buy a separate power rack, I think it could be the one for you.”
Read our full Force USA X20 Pro Review.
Best Commercial Functional Trainer: REP Fitness FT-5000
For an overall top-notch cable machine, you want the REP Fitness FT-5000. This machine is compatible with plenty of accessories and holds 448 pounds of resistance.
Specs
- Price: $2,499.99
- Dimensions: 85.5” H x 58” W x 36” D
- Accessories: Multi-grip pull-up bar, two D-ring handles, storage pegs, four 2.75-lb increment weights, cable exercise diagram
- Warranty: Lifetime on frame, 1 year on pulleys and cables
- Resistance: 224lbs
Pros
- With its commercial-grade, 11-gauge double powder-coated steel frame and aluminum pulleys, it can hold up to heavy use.
- Both of its 224-pound weight stacks feature 21 cable pulley positions to support varied exercises.
- The lightweight trolleys made for smooth pulls during our testing.
Cons
- Outside of the D-ring handles, it doesn’t include other attachments.
- Even for our experienced assembly team, it took four hours to assemble.
The Rep Fitness FT-5000 is built for the long haul. Our pick for the best commercial functional trainer features an 11-gauge steel frame, aluminum pulleys, and dual 224-pound weight stacks that can stand up to the constant use of commercial gyms. Add in the 21 cable positions and pull-up bar built right into the frame, and we rated our workout experience with the FT-5000 5 out of 5.
The 11-gauge steel is plenty durable on its own, but the frame on the FT-5000 is bolstered by a powder coating that works to resist both corrosion and the chips that versatile machines like these encounter over time. Our tester — a USA Weightlifting coach and Olympian — rated its construction, durability, and stability all 4 out of 5.
[Related: REP Fitness PR-5000 Power Rack Review]
While the included D-ring handles will still let you take on cable crunches or overhead presses, those are the only grips that come standard. That prompted our tester to rate its versatility 3.5 out of 5, noting that you’ll need to buy one of Rep Fitness’ two available accessory packages if you need a triceps rope, curl bar, or ankle cuff.
With a 2:1 cable pulley ratio, lifting 50 pounds with the cable is actually like lifting 25 pounds. Still, our tester emphasized just how smooth those lifts felt. “With lightweight trolleys and aluminum pulleys, it made for really smooth travel with no sticking points,” they said, rating its smoothness a 5 out of 5.
The pros on our assembly team have put together dozens of functional trainers, but it took us two hours longer than the suggested amount of time to build this machine. While we appreciated that it arrived in one crate, we rated its setup a 2.5 out of 5, as we encountered a few stripped screws and some inconsistent welding.
Best Functional Trainer for Beginners: Titan Fitness Functional Trainer
The Titan Fitness Functional Trainer is a well-built home gym that comes standard with accessories that other home gyms would sell as extras, like dual stirrup handles and a long bar.
Specs
- Price: $2,499.99
- Dimensions: 82” H x 64” W x 44” D
- Accessories: Short bar, long bar, ankle strap, dual stirrup handles, tricep rope handles, and single and double D-ring handles
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
- Resistance: 200lbs
Pros
- The seven included accessories provide a solid starting point for beginners to try out exercises like lat pulldowns, rows, and more.
- It has the capability to adjust to over 1,000 strength-training positions.
- This functional trainer has a built-in multi-grip pull-up bar.
Cons
- Users over 6 feet tall may need a taller functional trainer to comfortably perform pull-ups or high-angle cable exercises like straight arm pulldowns.
- Titan only offers a 1-year warranty. Other machines around this price point, like the Rep Fitness FT-5000, offer lifetime or 10-year warranties.
Our pick for best functional trainer for beginners, the Titan Fitness Functional Trainer, includes seven attachments, allowing newcomers to try out cable exercises like lat pulldowns or tricep extensions without being overwhelmed by a surplus of gear. Its dual 200-pound stacks should provide plenty of resistance for your beginner bodybuilding routine, while the brightly-colored adjustment knobs and markings make it easy to configure its 1,000 possible positions as you get to know the machine.
Having a built-in pull-up bar, triceps rope, short bar, long bar, and ankle strap — along with the classic D-ring handles — helped it earn a 4.5 out of 5 for versatility from our tester, who also highlighted the weight stacks. “With the 2:1 cable ratio, the starting weight of 20 pounds is actually 10 ‘real’ pounds,” they said. “I think that starting point is plenty for most people.”
The 82-inch height on the Titan Fitness Functional Trainer is in line with other functional trainers we have used, but our tester noted that it could be an issue for some. “For exercises where you need a steeper vertical angle, or to fully extend on a pull up, the height is something to be aware of,” they said. “Obviously, if you’re trying to fit it under an 8-foot ceiling or basement, this height could be a good thing, but it’s a consideration for taller users.”
On functional trainers, we like to see 10-year or lifetime warranties, like on the Rep Fitness FT-5000. Titan, however, only offers a 1-year option. “It seems really durable, so I wouldn’t expect any issues to pop up, but I’d still like to see a longer warranty than just one year,” our tester said. They did end up giving it a 3.5 out of 5 in the category, though, because Titan offers a 30-day full refund (minus the cost of shipping).
Best Versatile Functional Trainer: Beyond Power Voltra I
The Beyond Power is one of the smallest, most portable cable machines you'll find on the market. This device is compatible with the Beyond+ app so you can stream workouts or track your progress.
Specs
- Price: $2,099
- Dimensions: 3.94” H x 5.49” W x 12.71” D
- Accessories: Varies by package
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
- Resistance: 200lbs
Pros
- Its three training modes — weight training, resistance band, and damper mode — allow for distinct types of exercises in one compact machine.
- With attachments like a travel platform and sliding rack mount, it allows for varied movements on-the-go or in cramped training spaces.
- Pair the machine with the Beyond+ app to track your workout history and progress.
Cons
- $2,099 is expensive on its own, but you also need to purchase one of their four mounts to use it.
- Beyond Power sells a mini-rack that you can mount on a wall, but otherwise you’ll need to find a rack at a gym or fitness center in order to use it.
If you travel frequently or your training space can’t handle a full-sized functional trainer, the Beyond Power Voltra I offers the versatility of a functional trainer in a package that’s roughly the size of a shoebox. Once you mount it on a rack in your gym or fitness center, you can select weight training, resistance band, or damper mode (imagine running with a parachute) to change the type of resistance you’ll feel in the cable.
Despite the need to find a suitable rack to mount it, the versatility afforded by its three training modes earned its performance a 5 out of 5 from our tester and had them rethinking their home gym set up. “Given all this thing can do, I think I could simplify my home gym to basically just a rack, bar, weight plates, and the Voltra,” they said.
In weight training mode, you’ll feel the typical resistance offered by functional trainers up to 200 pounds, which is pretty remarkable considering its 13-pound overall weight. When you select resistance band mode, the Voltra I adds more resistance as the cable stretches further from the unit, like a resistance band would. In damper mode, you can simulate sprinting or jumping with a parachute, as it will apply sudden resistance as you run out.
Attachments like a straight bar, travel platform, and sliding rack mount are available for an additional cost, and you can also sync it with the Beyond+ app, which lets you customize your training via virtual workouts and progress tracking. And while you can use the 4-inch display to adjust the resistance, you can also do so from your phone. We scored the Voltra I a 4 out of 5 for customizations.
We think the Voltra I is a viable solution for those who travel frequently or are running low on space. Our tester did, however, rate its value a 3 out of 5 because it requires an additional purchase to use it at all. “The initial $2,099 is steep on its own, but then you need to buy one of their mounts (or even a rack) just to use it.”
The four types of mounts Beyond Power sells (sliding, adaptive, fixed, and bar) range from $59 to $249.
[Related: The 7 Best Portable Home Gyms of 2024]
Best Smart Functional Trainer: Tonal
The Tonal is an interactive home gym that delivers up to 200 lbs of total electromagnetic resistance with the use of two maneuverable pulleys. What's most impressive is that it adapts as you progresses, which means you'll always be pushing closer to your fitness goals.
Specs
- Price: $3,995
- Dimensions: 50.9” H x 21.50” W x 5.25” D
- Accessories: Smart handles
- Warranty: 2-year limited warranty
- Resistance: 200lbs
Pros
- This adaptive machine utilizes 17 sensors to automatically adjust your weight resistance and provide feedback on form.
- A compact, wall-mounted machine, it only sticks out 6 inches from the wall.
- It provides resistance up to 200 pounds.
Cons
- At $3,995 — not including the optional attachments or required installation — it’s roughly $500 more than the average functional trainer.
- It can’t be mounted on cinder block walls — only 16- or 24-inch wooden studs.
Calling all tech-heads: The best smart functional trainer we’ve pulled the cables on is the Tonal Home Gym. In addition to its touchscreen and data tracking capabilities, this wall-mounted machine uses 17 sensors to monitor your form and adjust your resistance based on your movements during workouts. We gave its programming, versatility, and ease of use all a 4.75 out of 5 during testing.
“My favorite part of Tonal is that it keeps track of my training metrics and adjusts my loads based on what the AI thinks I’m capable of doing,” said BarBend editorial member and proud Tonal owner Rosie Borchert. “I don’t even have to think about progressive overload, Tonal just does it for me.”
[Related: Best Smart Home Gyms]
After mounting it in his gym, BarBend expert tester Jake Herod, NASM-CNC, highlighted just how quickly Tonal was able to personalize his training. “This is an adaptive piece of equipment, so once you take the strength assessment, you’ll never have to worry about how much weight you need to lift by yourself.” See what else he had to say about his time with Tonal in his video review below.
UPDATED Tonal Home Gym Review (2022) — Is It STILL The BEST?
Tonal only sticks out 6 inches from the wall once you mount it, and the company recommends dedicating an area of 7 feet by 7 feet and a ceiling height of 7 feet 10 inches for comfortable use. It can’t be mounted on cinder block, though, so you’ll need either 16- or 24-inch wooden studs.
Another point of difference is its 1:1 resistance ratio. With a pulley system that lifts weight stacks, the actual amount of force you supply is typically half of the real weight (a 2:1 ratio). But as Herod pointed out, the weight you pull on Tonal is the weight you lift. “If you select 200 pounds, you better bring 200 pounds of force.”
Since this $3,995 machine is around $500 more than the typical range for functional trainers — $2,500 to $3,500 — we knocked off a point for value. “The elephant in the room: it’s expensive. After you factor in attachments, shipping and installation, and taxes, it’s more like $4,500,” Herod said.
Read our full Tonal Review.
Best Functional Trainer with a Bench: Life Fitness G7
This commercial-grade machine’s 11-gauge steel frame comes with a lifetime warranty. It features dual 160-pound weight stacks and is stable enough on its own to not be bolted into the ground, per our tester.
Specs
- Price: $3,889 + $650 (G7 Bench)
- Dimensions: 83” H x 69.5” W x 48.5” D
- Accessories: Two D-ring handles, foot strap, thigh strap, straight bar, exercise ball
- Warranty: Lifetime on frame, 3-year on pulleys
- Resistance: 160lbs
Pros
- Although it’s an additional cost, Life Fitness’ G7 bench is one of the best benches we’ve tested.
- This commercial-grade machine’s frame comes with a lifetime warranty.
- It’s stable enough on its own to not be bolted into the ground, per our tester.
Cons
- The 160 pounds of resistance may not be enough for athletes looking for heavy lifts.
- Its $3,889 price tag prompted a value score of 2 out of 5 rating from our tester.
Add-ons like weight benches aren’t typically included when you purchase a functional trainer, but we included the Life Fitness G7 because its accompanying weight bench can facilitate exercises like bench presses or chest flys. While it will set you back another $650, adding a bench to your setup allows you to leverage the G7’s 20 cable positions to take on movements in a horizontal, incline, or decline position. After we put it to the test, the G7 Functional Trainer earned a 4.5 out of 5 for its accessories — like the bench — and a 5 out of 5 for smoothness.
The 11-gauge steel uprights and smooth pulley system impressed our tester, who rated its construction and durability 4 out of 5 and noted that it was stable enough that it didn’t need to be bolted into the ground. “The one knock on it is that I wish the pulleys were aluminum, but outside of that, I think it will last a long time.” It is also backed up by a lifetime warranty on the frame and 3-year warranty for the pulleys, as well as lifetime frame and parts warranties for the bench.
[Related: Best Weight Benches]
Most functional trainers we’ve tested offer dual weight stacks around 200 pounds each, which — with a 2:1 cable pulley ratio — is 200 pounds of resistance total. As such, the 160 pounds offered by the G7 may not be enough weight for heavy lifters.
“That amount just tells me that it’s not designed for people who want to do super heavy lifts,” our tester said, rating its overall value just 2 out of 5. “It’s probably fine for most people, but I think this machine is a little pricey to only offer 160 pounds of resistance.”
Best Budget Functional Trainer: Torque Fitness Anker 7
The Torque Anker 7 is among the most compact cable machines you'll find. We also love that this one comes with customizable weight options, so you get the best product for your goals.
Specs
- Price: $1,499
- Dimensions: 83.8” H x 48.1” W x 9.3” D
- Accessories: Two D-ring handles, leg boot, battle rope anchor strap, hanging storage hooks
- Warranty: 10 years on frame, one year on parts
- Resistance: 150lbs total
Pros
- At $1,499, the Anker 7 comes in roughly $1,000 to $2,000 less than the average functional trainer.
- After mounting it on the wall, it protrudes just 9 inches into your space, making it ideal for one-car garages or smaller training areas.
- The weight stacks come in three options: 150, 200, or 225 pounds.
Cons
- Its nylon pulleys require more maintenance and can feel less smooth over time than aluminum pulleys.
- Although it can be mounted on concrete or metal studs, it only includes hardware for wooden studs.
As the best budget functional trainer on our list, the $1,499 Torque Fitness Anker 7 comes in around $1,000 to $2,000 less than the average range of $2,500 to $3,000. But even at that price, it still offers the resistance and accessories to build strength. Torque even offers 3 weight options per stack — 150, 200, or 250 pounds.
As an upgraded version of the Anker 3, the Anker 7 still mounts on walls in garages or home gyms, but features dual weight stacks instead of the single stack on the older model. The other major upgrade is the 17 adjustable pulley positions compared to the four fixed positions on the Anker 3.
We rated its value a 4 out of 5, because having those three options can keep you from paying for weight you won’t use, while also giving heavy lifters the chance to take advantage of its slim design.
One way Torque keeps the cost of the Anker 7 down is by letting your wall provide some of the support that would otherwise be taken on by a heavier frame. “Since you bolt it to the wall, you don’t have heavy, expensive metals to counteract the weight you’re moving around,” our tester noted.
[Related: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment]
Whether you mount it on concrete, metal, or wooden studs — you’ll need to find your own hardware for anything but wood — it only juts out 9 inches from the wall. “This design is great if you set it up in your garage and still need to park a car in it,” our tester said, rating its footprint a 5 out of 5. “It could also save you from having home gym equipment completely take over a bedroom or basement.”
We would have liked to see aluminum pulleys instead of nylon, but its low profile and platinum frame still earned it a 5 out of 5 from our tester. “I get that the nylon pulleys are cheaper, but it would have been nice to maybe have an upgrade option because aluminum pulleys have smoother travel,” they explained.
Best Functional Trainer with a Smith Machine: Force USA G20 Pro
The G20 All-In-One Trainer takes an entire gym and packages it into a single space. This home gym is the complete package, sporting plate loaded features in addition to being a power rack for squats and benching with a regular barbell, which you can add on to your order.
Specs
- Price: $5,999
- Dimensions: 91” H x 75” W x 67” D
- Accessories: Monolifts, roller j-hooks, safety spotter arms, landmine, multigrip landmine handle, dual hook straight bar, lat pulldown bar, small straight bar, close grip handle, v-bar, metal stirrup handles, nylon stirrup handles, ankle strap, hammer grip bar, pulldown rope, low row foot plate, leg press plate, lat pulldown knee holder, calf block
- Warranty: Lifetime structural
- Resistance: 289lbs total
Pros
- The built-in Smith machine offers increased safety and stability for beginners and those without a spotter.
- This commercial-grade machine is built with 11-gauge steel.
- An all-in-one machine, it features a power rack, leg press, two multi-grip chin-up bars, and more.
Cons
- At $5,999, this versatile machine exceeds the average range of functional trainers by roughly $2,500.
- Assembly can be complicated on your own.
- It weighs over 1,000 pounds, so once it’s assembled, it would need to be disassembled to relocate.
The best Smith machines are particularly well-suited for home gyms because, for those working out on their own, they offer the stability and safety that you would normally get from a spotter or lifting partner. We picked the Force USA G20 Pro for the best functional trainer with a Smith machine because it delivers just about everything you could need in a home gym, including a power rack, leg press, and chin-up bars.
The guided rods and smooth feel of the G20 Pro’s Smith machine helped our tester perform squats and overhead presses with ease, earning the Smith machine itself a 4 out of 5 from our tester. “I’m about 5 foot 10 inches and it was super easy to reach my full range of motion for something like overhead presses,” they said.
For us to consider a machine “all-in-one,” it needs to eliminate the need for other machines and ideally, save some floor space. “Machines like the G20 Pro support a ton of different movements and muscle groups without gobbling up all your floor space,” said our tester. They’ve spent a lot of time with the G20 Pro and rated its durability, construction, and attachments 4 out of 5, while its versatility earned a 5 out of 5.
With an 11-gauge steel build, the G20 Pro is built to last. And, with a price of $5,999 — more than the average functional trainer by roughly $2,500 — it better. Our tester scored its value a 3.5 out of 5 because, despite the sticker shock, you’re getting way more than just a functional trainer.
This monster of a machine comes in at over 1,000 pounds. Our assembly team has years of experience putting equipment like the G20 Pro together, and it still took them 35 hours to get it set up. “They offer professional assembly for $700, so take it from someone who spent a whole week assembling this thing — bake it into your cost,” our tester said.
Best Plate-Loaded Functional Trainer: Bells of Steel Plate-Loaded Cable Tower 2.0
The Bells of Steel Plate-Loaded Cable Tower 2.o is a great budget-friendly cable machine. This one is compatible with plenty of attachments and you can load your own plates for customized resistance.
Specs
- Price: $349.99
- Dimensions: 81.2” H x 28.5” W x 28” D
- Accessories: Two D-ring handles, 2-to-1 adapter
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
- Resistance: 250lbs total
Pros
- By supplying your own weight plates, you’ll save some money while being able to customize your resistance.
- Its footprint of 5.54 square feet is less than a third of the size of the average functional trainer.
- The cables can be adjusted to 33 different height settings.
Cons
- While it offers a lot of versatility, most attachments are sold separately.
- It needs to be bolted down or wall-mounted.
Most functional trainers use dual weight stacks connected to their pulley systems, but some are designed to support weight plates. If you’ve got plenty at your disposal, you can save some money by going with the Bells of Steel Plate Loaded Cable Tower 2.0. We gave its value a 4.5 out of 5 because, at $349.99, it’s well under the $2,500 to $3,500 average cost for functional trainers.
On any machine that uses pulleys and cables, you need to know the ratio of actual weight to “felt” weight, which is how much force you actually have to supply to move the weight. Most functional trainers have a 2:1 ratio so if you load up 100 pounds, you are actually only lifting 50 pounds. This is true of the Cable Tower 2.0, but Bells of Steel includes an adapter that connects both cables to combine that force.
[Related: The Best Weight Plates]
What our tester loved about this machine was the customization it allows for such a tiny footprint — a 5 out of 5 from our tester — which, at just 5.4 square feet, is around 12 square feet less than the average functional trainer.
“Bells of Steel is offering a ton of modularity with its equipment and I love it. It’s ideal for home gym owners because it can fit anywhere,” they said. It does need to be either bolted down or wall-mounted to support the 250-pound maximum, but given the flexibility its size allows, we think that’s a worthy trade off.
Speaking to its customization is the fact that they offer dozens of attachments. While you can accomplish a lot with just the two included D-ring handles and 33 cable height settings, everything else (like a triceps rope or curl bar) is sold separately.
[Related: Bells of Steel Hydra Rack Review]
Best Compact Functional Trainer: MAXPRO SC Portable Cable Machine
This compact cable machine packs in up to 300 pounds of resistance to a footprint that measures just 6.77 square feet. Plus, the MAXPRO Fitness Cable Home Gym is Bluetooth compatible for easier data monitoring and logging throughout your fitness journey.
Specs
- Price: $799
- Dimensions: Unfolded: 4.11” H x 3.6” W x 32.3” D; folded: 15.98” H x 7.2” W
- Accessories: Long bar, workout handles, two ankle/wrist straps, door mount system, and USB charger
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
- Resistance: 300lbs
Pros
- When folded, this compact machine measures roughly 16 inches long, making it ideal for those tight on space.
- Despite its size, it still provides up to 300 pounds of resistance.
- It includes a door mount, though you can also purchase an optional wall-mounted track for exercises that require a vertical angle.
Cons
- There are not many accessories available.
- According to our tester, the accompanying app is not very useful.
The best compact functional trainer we’ve used takes the functionality of a full-sized machine and squishes it down to the size of your laptop. The MAXPRO SC Portable Cable Machine measures just 32 inches during use, then folds in half if you need to take it on a trip or stash out of sight. Our tester rated its portability a 5 out of 5.
You can stand on it for upright rows or overhead presses, or mount it on a door frame for standing chest presses. The compact design allows you to find creative ways to utilize its 300 pounds of resistance, whether you’re in your home gym or on the road.
“I have to admit: I use this thing way more than I thought I would,” our tester confessed, rating its versatility 5 out of 5. “You can stand on it for movements where you pull or press up, but getting the wall mount opens up so many possibilities.”
There isn’t much available in terms of accessories, but MAXPRO offers a bundle with a foldable bench, wall track, and jump trainer belt. This is the package our tester got, but they rated the available accessories just 3.5 out of 5. “The design does limit what you can do. It’s not long enough to do cable crossovers, for instance,” they said.
Another area of improvement our tester would like to see is the accompanying MAXPRO app. “It offers some workouts, but it’s most useful for tracking your reps. It’s also free, so I could see as they build it out with updates that it could evolve into something more appealing,” they noted. The smart features garnered a 3.5 out of 5, but like they said, the app has some potential.
[Related: Biceps Cable Workouts]
Best High-End Functional Trainer: Gronk Fitness Functional Trainer
This functional trainer features laser-cut numbers on the uprights and the 180-degree aluminum pulleys and brass bushings allow for smooth travel. It has 21 cable positions on the uprights and tts footprint of 17.37 square feet is just below the average range for functional trainers — 18 to 25 square feet.
Specs
- Price: $2,399
- Dimensions: 83” H x 61” W x 41” D
- Accessories: Triceps rope, long bar, two D-ring handles
- Warranty: N/A
- Resistance: 200lbs total
Pros
- This high-end machine features laser-cut numbers on the uprights and the 180-degree aluminum pulleys and brass bushings allow for smooth travel.
- There are 21 cable positions on the uprights.
- Its footprint of 17.37 square feet is just below the average range for functional trainers — 18 to 25 square feet.
Cons
- While you can upgrade your attachment package, the base package only includes two handles, a triceps rope, and a long bar.
- The weights are labeled with the actual weight, not the feel weight, so you’ll need to divide by two to determine how much resistance you are feeling.
While the Gronk Fitness Functional Trainer is comparable in size and design to other functional trainers, premium elements like laser-cut numbers on the inside of the uprights and all-aluminum pulleys made it our pick for best high-end functional trainer. Our tester also noted that the bearings and brass bushings help create an extremely smooth pull no matter which of the 21 cable positions you have it set in. “Especially for the price, this feels like a premium machine,” they said, rating the cable system 4.5 out of 5.
With the base package, you’ll get accessories like the D-rings, a long bar, and triceps rope, but the available high-end upgrades also grabbed our tester’s attention, earning it a 5 out of 5 for its attachments. “This is pretty unique compared to other options out there — with upgrades like spotter arms, a low-row footplate, and J-cups, you can turn it into a half rack.”
The footprint of 17.37 square feet is at the low end of the average range of functional trainers we have used — 18 to 25 square feet — but is comparable to something like the Rep Fitness FT-5000. “It’s wide enough for most people to get a full stretch, but it’s not going to overwhelm your training space,” our tester noted. “It has kind of the perfect balance.”
[Related: Gronkowski Fitness Barbell]
Like many functional trainers, the dual 200-pound weight stacks use a 2:1 cable pulley ratio. When you load up 100 pounds, that means you’re actually only lifting 50 pounds. The stacks also featured an admittedly minor annoyance for our tester. “Instead of the actual weight on the labels, I’d prefer to see the feel weight,” they said. “This is a tiny issue, but it’s just nice to see exactly how much you’re lifting when you set the pin instead of doing the quick math.”
An oddity on the Gronk Fitness website is the lack of information about the warranty. Another site that sells this functional trainer offers “extensive warranty support,” but outside of their 30-day return policy, we couldn’t find any warranty information.
How Much Do Functional Trainers Cost?
When compared to the best kettlebells or slam balls, functional trainers are expensive. However, for athletes looking for a wide variety of strength training possibilities, they can offer tremendous value. Generally, more expensive machines include heavier weight stacks, more versatile attachments, or all-in-one trainers with Smith machines or power racks. We also included more affordable options, including a few you could slip in your gym bag.
| Best Functional Trainer Overall | Force USA X20 Pro | $4,249.99 |
| Best Commercial Functional Trainer | REP Fitness FT-5000 | $2,499.99 |
| Best Functional Trainer for Beginners | Titan Fitness Functional Trainer | $2,499.99 |
| Best Versatile Functional Trainer | Beyond Power Voltra I | $2,099 |
| Best Smart Functional Trainer | Tonal | $3,995 |
| Best Functional Trainer with Bench | Life Fitness G7 | $3,889 |
| Best Budget Functional Trainer | Torque Fitness Anker 7 | $1,499 |
| Best Functional Trainer with a Smith Machine | Force USA G20 Pro | $5,999 |
| Best Plate-Loaded Functional Trainer | Bells of Steel Plate Loaded Cable Tower 2.0 | $349.99 |
| Best Compact Functional Trainer | MAXPRO SC Portable Cable Machine | $799 |
| Best High-End Functional Trainer | Inspire FT | $4,999 |
With options ranging from $349.99 to $5,999, the variety of the functional trainer marker is well on display. If you are swearing off your gym completely and need a functional trainer with a ton of weight and accessories, expect to creep closer to the top of the average range — $2,500 to $3,500.
From compact designs for small spaces to portable options, you can find more affordable machines that can still get the job done, but won’t match the versatility and durability of the big boys. For some functional trainers, you also may need to factor in delivery, assembly, or additional attachments to get the most out of your machine.
What to Consider Before Buying a Functional Trainer
Before committing to your dream functional trainer, establish your budget and take stock of your available space. These machines can be large, pricey, and difficult to assemble, but their versatility may just make it all worth it. Consider a few of these factors before saying “I do” to your new functional trainer.
Your Budget
Large home gym equipment can be expensive, so before clicking add to cart, establish exactly how much you can afford to spend on your new functional trainer. We included a vast range of price points — from $349.99 to $5,999 — so that the most people possible would be able to find their match.
As you peruse our list, you’ll notice the factors that can most impact the price of the machine, like its construction, amount of weight, and additional components (like a Smith machine). While added machinery opens up more exercises like squat variations and shoulder presses, you may not want to drop the extra cash if you don’t see yourself needing those capabilities. Decide what features can support your intended use, then see which budget-friendly option works for you.
Available Training Space
“Functional trainers can be a good option for smaller home gyms, seeing as they combine multiple pieces of equipment into a smaller amount of floor space,” says BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC. “Compared to a full gym setup with individual items designed for specific exercises, functional trainers make more use out of less space.”
Still, standard functional trainers can take up between 18 and 25 square feet of space, with heights between 6.75 and 7.58 feet. Most ceilings are between 7 and 9 feet high, so you’ll want to grab your measuring tape before making your decision. (1) We included the exact dimensions for each of our picks, which should help as you find the perfect spot for it in your home gym or garage.
Versatility
With adjustable cable positions, functional trainers allow you to position your resistance at a variety of angles, but the ability to add accessories like curl bars or ankle cuffs can help maximize your machine’s potential. Consider whether you need a functional trainer cable machine, or if you’d benefit from having a leg press or Smith machine as part of your functional trainer.
[Related: Best Home Gym Machines]
Capritto laid out a few questions we think are important to ask yourself about the versatility of your machine. “Are you looking for a simple two-stack cable machine, or do you want all the bells and whistles so you can do more exercises? Do you want to build out your functional trainer over time with accessories?” First, figure out if the base package on offer has enough versatility to meet your needs, then decide if you need an upgrade.
Ease of Assembly
Functional trainers — especially all-in-one options — can require a lot of time and effort to assemble — we’re talking several hours, if not days. “Functional trainers can also be tough to assemble, although white glove delivery and assembly is often available at an added cost,” Capritto says. “Due to their size, weight, and complex nature, if you have to move your home gym, moving a functional trainer will be an arduous and potentially expensive task.”
Benefits of Functional Trainers
From upright rows to lat pulldowns, functional trainers offer the versatility to support numerous movements because you can adjust the angle of resistance. The convenience of having all of this variety in your own home or garage, along with the safety of a fixed system — as opposed to free weights — make these machines even more enticing. Check out a few of the benefits of functional trainers below.
Versatility
As Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC, pointed out when she assessed functional trainers for BarBend, functional trainers have in some ways evolved into some of the best full-body workout machines because of the versatility they provide.
“Even with the simplest models, you can do most every exercise you need in order to build muscle and increase strength. But functional trainers these days are more than just cable machines,” she says. “You can add any attachment you can dream up to a functional trainer to create your all-in-one home gym machine.”
Convenience
A huge plus for at-home fitness equipment is being able to access it without having to travel to a gym or pay for a membership. This is especially true for functional training because the adjustability of the cable position and attachments like low-row foot plates open up so many possibilities. With all that magic in one machine, you won’t need to wander around a gym looking for a lat pulldown station, or wait in line for the leg curl machine.
Safety
Any time you’re lifting weights, it’s ideal to have a buddy to act as your spotter, especially for bench presses or heavy squats. It hurts like hell to drop a weight plate on your toe, and loading up hundreds of pounds should be a team effort. Even compact at-home equipment — like the best folding squat racks — may require a second set of hands, but the cable pulley systems on functional trainers can isolate the weights within the weight stack so you can protect your toes.
Final Word
If you’re tired of wandering around commercial gyms in search of machines (that are always occupied) and then waiting in line to knock out chest flys, a functional trainer may just be the all-in-one solution for you. These machines come in many forms, but they all have one thing in common — versatility. Adjusting the position of your cable leverages the weight in the stack to allow for cable biceps curls, straight arm pulldowns, or even squats in just one machine.
Whether it’s arm day, leg day, or Christmas day, having a functional trainer at your fingertips can allow you to take on challenging exercises without dealing with a crowded or overpriced gym. We used our expert-colored glasses to round up all the best functional trainers to help you reap the benefits of these versatile machines in your own home.
FAQs
What is the best functional trainer?
We chose the Force USA X20 Pro as the best functional trainer because it has everything to be the centerpiece of your home or garage gym — a commercial-grade 11-gauge steel build, full power, and 17 attachments that can open up your training possibilities. The 2:1 cable pulley ratio means the dual 289-pound weight stacks provide 289 pounds of felt resistance, which should be plenty for most users.
While that would be nice, realistically you can usually get away with somewhere between 80 and 100 pounds of real resistance. The actual weight stack needed to achieve that will depend on the pulley ratio.
Are functional trainers worth it?
When you’re deciding whether you should invest in a functional trainer, think about what types of movements you’ll be doing, your fitness goals, and the costs that owning your own machine could replace. If you spend $50 per month on a gym membership — plus gas and time spent commuting — or have housemates or family members who will also use your machine, the price tag may be a bit less intimidating than it seems.
What are the main features to look for in a functional trainer?
Before investing in one of these functional trainers, check its durability, included attachments, and size. For durability, look for heavy-duty (11-gauge is common) steel frames and aluminum pulleys. Depending on the type of training you want to do, you may want to check out the best curl bars, long bars, or ankle cuffs, in addition to the classic D-handles. Then look for a machine that will fit in your space — the average is around 18 to 25 square feet.
References
- Rybczynski, W. (n.d.). Ceiling Heights in homes and offices. https://realestate.wharton.upenn.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/678.pdf
- Mattress sizes and dimensions: Which bed size is right for you?. Casper. (n.d.). https://casper.com/mattress-size-comparison-guide.html
