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This article is my review of the best cable machines for your home gym. As a personal trainer, I know the importance of having the right equipment. A cable machine can change your workout routine, because you can use it for many exercises.
As a personal trainer, I reviewed and listed eight of the best entry-level cable machines I recommend for your home gym.
In this review, I highlighted the unique features of each brand. I will also provide helpful tips you need to remember before buying a cable machine.
Of all the exercise equipment you can buy for your home gym, the cable machine offers the most versatility. It provides a controlled motion and targets different muscle groups for every workout.
A cable machine is a must if you’re shooting for muscle gains. Some cable machines, like the Bowflex, the Tonal and the Force USA, are complete workout machines. They not only have cable pulleys, but also support other kinds of exercises.
That’s why I advise you to select your cable machine carefully, with optional extra use in mind.
Best Rated:
Bowflex Extreme 2 SE
- 60+ different exercises
- 210 lbs resistance
- Upgradable to 410 lbs
- Sliding seat rail for leg press and rowing
- Lat and squat bar and more
The Bowflex Extreme 2 SE is a complete cable machine. You can perform over 60 exercises on this machine. It fits in most home gyms, due to its relatively small footprint.
If you are looking for the best cable machine, look at Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE. This is the successor of the Bowflex Blaze, which was already the best-rated cable machine with over 1300+ five-star recommendations on Amazon. I am amazed that this kind of equipment is available for home gyms these days.
This machine enables you to train 60+ different exercises. It features a 210 lb resistance that is upgradable to 310 lbs or 410 lbs.
The sliding seat rail allows you to perform leg presses and aerobic rowing. Bowflex gives you seven free workout regimens developed by trainers.
The machine includes a lat and squat bar and a triple function handgrip. It comes with a folding bench and wheels for easy access and storage.
Of course, there are other good options for home gym cable machines. Having a basic understanding of each machine helps you determine which one is right for your needs.
Let’s start with the review.
Table of Contents
- 8 Best Cable Machines For Home Gyms
- Best Rated Cable Machine – Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE
- Best Portable Cable Machine – MAXPRO SmartConnect Portable Cable Machine
- Most Versatile Cable Machine – Xmark Functional Trainer
- Best Smart Cable Machine – Tonal
- Best For Your Budget – Body-Solid Powerline PCCO90X Cable Crossover Machine
- Best Cable Machine For Small Spaces – Valor Fitness BD-62 Cable Crossover
- Best Cable Machine For BodyBuilders – Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer
- Best Cable Machine for Beginners – BodySolid Powerline PFT100 Cable Machine
- What to consider when choosing the best cable machine for home gym?
- Which cable machine is best overall?
- FAQ About The Best Cable Machine For Home Gym
- What to do next?
8 Best Cable Machines For Home Gyms
Best Rated Cable Machine – Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE
| Features | Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE |
| Dimension | 90 x 38 x 83 in |
| Product Weight | 98 lbs |
| Resistance | 210 lbs |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
| Other Features | Sliding Seat Rail Instructional placard Triple function hand-grip/ankle cuffs |
Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE is the successor of the Bowflex Blaze, which already was best-rated cable machine with over 1300+ five-star recommendations on Amazon. Home gym owners are definitely satisfied with Bowflex.
This machine enables you to train 60+ different exercises. It features a 210 lb resistance that is upgradable to 310 lbs or 410 lbs.
The sliding seat rail allows you to perform leg presses and aerobic rowing. Bowflex gives you seven free workout regimens developed by trainers.
The machine includes a lat and squat bar and a triple function handgrip. It comes with a folding bench and wheels for easy access and storage.
Best Portable Cable Machine – MAXPRO SmartConnect Portable Cable Machine
| Features | MAXPRO SmartConnect Portable Cable Machine |
| Dimension | 19.2 x 15.7 x 5.9 in |
| Product Weight | under 10lbs |
| Resistance | Up to 300 lbs |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
| Other Features | MAXPRO SmartConnect 3-piece Quick Connect Long Bar Set of MAXPRO Workout Handles Set of MAXPRO Ankle/Wrist Straps Maxpro Door Mount System USB Charger |
The MAXPRO Smart Cable Gym is currently the most portable cable machine. It is an all-in-one device that combines strength, cardio, suspension, plyometrics, and functional training.
Despite its small size, it can withstand resistance from 5 lbs to 300 lbs. The tension is adjustable with a simple dial twist after each exercise.
MAXPRO Smart Cable Gym weighs under 10 lbs and folds conveniently, turning any place into a home gym. You will gain exclusive access to the MAXPRO Coaching App. Connect via Bluetooth to track your metrics, monitor progress, stream classes, and discover new exercises.
MAXPRO brings you revolutionary fitness technology changing bulky cable machines into a convenient portable device that can fit into a backpack.
Most Versatile Cable Machine – Xmark Functional Trainer
| Features | Xmark Functional Trainer |
| Dimension | 65 x 43.5 x 83 in |
| Product Weight | 247 lbs |
| Resistance | 100 lbs each arm |
| Warranty | Lifetime frame warranty 1-year on moving parts and hardware |
| Other Features | Pair of 8-inch hand straps Pair of 17-inch strap handles 23-inch triceps rope Short bar 42-inch long bar Leg extension leg curl strap Ankle strap |
XMark is a brand you’ll find in homes and gyms across the United States.
This functional trainer is a versatile machine that can be easily set up and used in any home gym.
The unit has dual 200 lb weight stacks and a standard 2:1 stack to resistance ratio. It provides you with true isolateral-based movements and various muscle targeting and isolation options.
You can raise or lower the adjustable pulleys up to 19 levels and lock them into place using a pop-pin locking mechanism. The spacing ranges from 1′ up to 6’6″ to accommodate the needs of every user.
The heavy-duty steel frame and pulley system can make your exercise extremely smooth every time. You can do pull-ups and chin-ups on the split grip pull-up bar.
It has a space-saving design and includes tons of accessories for different types of workouts.
Best Smart Cable Machine – Tonal
| Features | Tonal |
| Dimension | 50.9 x 21.5 x 5.25 in |
| Product Weight | 150 lbs |
| Resistance | maximum of 200 pounds combined, or 100 pounds per arm |
| Warranty | 1 year for parts and labor2 additional years parts30-day free trial |
| Other Features(requires additional cost) | Triceps rope Workout bench Exercise mat Foam roller Smart bar Smart handles |
A completely different kind of cable machine is the Tonal smart mirror. This revolutionary piece of equipment aims to replace all other types of strength training devices, including cable machines. It can even replace me as a personal trainer ;-), because Tonal comes with workout programs, and you can even have your own online personal trainer.
The Tonal mirror has two collapsible workout arms on each side built into the console. Workout arms are versatile and applicable for many exercises: bench press, deadlift, pushing, pulling, squats—anything you need.
Tonal uses magnets to provide the resistance for the exercises, so you don’t need to store heavy weights. Tonal’s digital weight systems deliver 200 pounds of resistance and adapt to you in real-time.
Among all the brands on this list, only tonal has a built-in console. You can use the touchscreen display to stream classes, connect with other users, program your workouts, and track your progress.
The data transfer is fast and accurate, because the workout arms are connected to the console.
The Tonal smart mirror is the most space saving cable machine (and more).
Best For Your Budget – Body-Solid Powerline PCCO90X Cable Crossover Machine
| Features | Body-Solid Powerline PCCO90X Cable Crossover Machine |
| Dimension | 82 x 18 x 9 in |
| Product Weight | 118 lbs |
| Resistance | Not specified |
| Warranty | 10-year frame and welds 1-year bushings and hardware 1-year pads, grips, cables, and pulleys |
| Other Features | 2 cable handles 1 ankle strap. |
Body-Solid PCCO90X machine proves that low-cost cable machines are available.
Get total-body conditioning with this strong performer. The design lets you work with every major muscle group in your body. The mainframe gives you access to an endless array of pulley exercises with over 180° of movement.
This machine can help you with various workouts that improve balance and coordination. The 190lb weight stack is challenging for the majority of users, while the integrated straight chin-up bar adds more workout variety.
This Cable Crossover Machine is built to last a lifetime and will help you sculpt the body of your dreams.
The cheapest cable machine is the Valor Fitness below, but it is wall-mounted. This Body-Solid powerline is an option for users who prefer a budget-friendly upright cable machine.
Best Cable Machine For Small Spaces – Valor Fitness BD-62 Cable Crossover
| Features | Valor Fitness BD-62 Cable Crossover |
| Dimension | 80 x 5 x 4 in |
| Product Weight | 62 lbs |
| Resistance | Up to 200 lbs |
| Warranty | 3-year frame 1-year cable. |
| Other Features | Strap Handles Bracket for Wall Mounting |
The Valor Fitness BD-62 is a versatile machine for every home gym. It saves space while allowing you to incorporate strength training with cable systems in your home.
The machine has 16 adjustment positions to allow users to perform various exercises. It includes two easy-to-grab strap handles that you can adjust into five positions to ensure comfort.
The double bar track provides stability and lets the plate-loaded carriage system glide smoothly along the tracks.
The BD-62 mounts on the wall at the top and bottom for support and stability to ensure that you can use it confidently.
Valor Fitness BD-62 is the most affordable wall-mounted cable machine. It is bigger than the Tonal, but this is an excellent option for a space-saving cable machine without a console. It is cheaper than Tonal, so it’s a brand to consider.
Best Cable Machine For BodyBuilders – Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer
| Features | Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer |
| Dimension | 91 x 63 x 72 in |
| Product Weight | 1127 lbs |
| Resistance | 220 lbs |
| Warranty | Lifetime Frame2-year parts |
| Other Features | 2 x 200 lb Weight Stacks Multi-grip Chin-up Bar Exercise Chart Suspension Training Ring J-Hooks Safety Spotter Arms Land Mine Functional Training Bar Lat Pull-down Bar Small Grip Frame Bar Close Grip Handle Sport Handle V-bar Metal Stirrup Handles Pull-down Rope Abdominal Belt Multi-grip Dip Handles Leg Press + Low Row Foot Plate Pull-down Knee Holder Barbell Storage Attachment Storage 2 x Olympic Lock Collars 4 x Band Pegs 6 x Weight Plate Holders 6 x Olympic Spring Clips 2 x Extension Chains 4 x Spring Snap Clips |
Enjoy a variety of workout options found in an entire commercial gym from a single home gym machine. Force USA G6 combines 9 strength equipment into one, genuinely made for body-builders.
The Power Rack base adjusts to any height position you need where you can perform squats and bench presses. The Cable Crossover provides fluid cable movement and can hold up to 2,000lb.
With a massive 772lb weight rating and an ergonomically designed chin-up station, this product helps you develop a strong upper body.
You can explore more body-building workouts with Force USA G6.
Best Cable Machine for Beginners – BodySolid Powerline PFT100 Cable Machine
| Features | BodySolid Powerline PFT100 Cable Machine |
| Dimension | 42.3 x 62.6 x 83 in |
| Product Weight | 104.78 lbs |
| Resistance | 210 lbs. available |
| Warranty | 10-Years Frame 1-Year Parts |
| Other Features | Two 160 Weight Stacks 180-degree range of motion Chinning Bar |
BodySolid PFT100 is the best cable machine for beginners.
The Powerline Functional Trainer features two 160 lb. weight stacks, upgradable to two 210 lb. stacks. This provides a range of workouts for users of all fitness levels. It is an excellent machine to help you level up.
The no-cable design allows you to transition from different exercises smoothly.
It offers adjustable pulleys that glide through a 180° range of motion for unrivaled workout versatility. It can give you access to many exercises like cable crossovers, biceps curls, and triceps press down.
What to consider when choosing the best cable machine for home gym?
Size and Space
These cable machines can take up a lot of space, so it is wise to check how much space you have for them.
If you plan to constantly move it around, choosing a portable device is best. Avoid wall-mounted and heavy brands, which take up a lot of space and come with too many accessories.
Price and Warranty
The price of the gym machine changes depending on the size and model you choose. All good things come with a cost, and so will your machine.
There is no harm in starting with a more moderately priced model as long as it serves what you bought it for. After using it for a while and finding that you appreciate working out with cables, then you can choose to upgrade.
Before you take the plunge with cable equipment, make sure you buy from a reputable store. Check the warranties to protect yourself in case they deliver a substandard/damaged product.
Durability
Make sure to find a durable machine. You will be doing a lot of intense exercises with them, so it’s best to ensure it is safe to use. The last thing you want is to injure yourself during your workouts.
Be sure to read reviews and ask around to see what brands of cable equipment people can recommend. This way, you’ll be able to find something durable and good value for your money.
Ease of Use
Always ensure that your cable machine is comfortable to use. Check which kind of users it can accommodate and the adjustability of the parts.
It is beneficial to use a machine with multiple pulley positions and glide into a wide range of motion. This gives you more options, targets more muscle groups, and gives you a full-body exercise.
Always do a test run to know if it fits your body and preferences.
Which cable machine is best overall?
If you want to get the most out of your workout routines, a cable machine for your home gym is a wise investment. The fact that you can perform various exercises with your cable machine means that it’s likely to be used regularly and will likely last for many years.
To help you choose which cable machine to get, I rounded up a list and reviewed the eight best cable machines for home gyms. Bowflex Extreme 2 SE is my top recommendation for various reasons:
- 60+ different exercises
- 210 lbs resistance
- Upgradable to 410 lbs
- Sliding seat rail for leg press and rowing
- Lat and squat bar and more
The Bowflex Extreme 2 SE is a complete cable machine. You can perform over 60 exercises on this machine. It fits in most home gyms, due to its relatively small footprint.
FAQ About The Best Cable Machine For Home Gym
Is a cable machine good for home gyms?
Yes, cable machines are a good investment in your home gym. It allows you to perform many exercises at different resistance levels. Additionally, you can get a full-body workout from a cable machine. It also allows you to exercise your upper and lower body simultaneously.
Can you build muscle with cable machines?
Yes, you can build muscle using a cable machine. Cable machines can target several muscle groups at different resistance levels. You can also exercise your muscle at different angles, which can be hard to do using other equipment.
Is a cable machine a good workout?
Yes, a cable machine is a good workout. Cable machines allow you to perform various exercises to target all the major muscle groups in your body. You can also adjust the resistance level on many cable machines to suit your fitness level.
What to do next?
Hopefully, by this point, you should have a good idea of which cable machine is the best fit for your needs. Just remember that as long as your machine provides the workout you need, it should be a solid choice for you.
In the end, it’s definitely worth purchasing a cable machine if you have the space and budget to do so.
If you have any questions about cable machines, please contact me, and I am happy to help.
Happy training in your home gym!
Inge van Haselen
Personal Trainer
