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Are you wondering which MaxiClimber to choose? Is it the Classic model or the XL?
In this article, we’ll compare the features of these two vertical climbers. To help you figure out which suits you better.
As a personal trainer, I’m constantly helping clients choose the best equipment based on their needs and preferences. And vertical climbers are one of them.
According to MaxiClimber (1), the Classic and XL models of vertical climbers burn double the calories of a treadmill per hour of workout session.
The MaxiClimber Classic is cheaper than the MaxiClimber XL. It has less resistance levels than the XL and lower weight and height recommendations.
The MaxiClimber XL has a hydraulic resistance system that provides up to 12 levels of resistance. The Classic model has no resistance system and uses only your body weight for resistance.
The MaxiClimber Classic can accommodate people who weigh 240 pounds or lighter and are 6.2 feet tall or shorter. At the same time, the weight and height recommendations of the XL model are 300 pounds and 6.4 feet, respectively.
On top of that, you will feel more comfortable and stable when exercising on the MaxiClimber XL. The frame is more durable, and the pedals and handles are wider than on the Classic model.
While both vertical climbers are effective at burning calories, the best model depends on your needs.
Let’s start the Maxiclimber Classic vs. XL review.
Table of Contents
- Features MaxiClimber Classic vs. MaxiClimber XL
- Maxiclimber Classic vs. XL: The Winner
- Which vertical climber is best for you?
- FAQ About Maxiclimber Classic vs. XL
- What to do next?
Features MaxiClimber Classic vs. MaxiClimber XL
| Features | MaxiClimber Classic | MaxiClimber XL |
| Dimensions | Length: 35.82 in (90.98 cm) Width: 28.3 in (71.88 cm) Height: 86.52 in (219.76 cm) | Length: 41.33 in (104.98 cm) Width: 25.78 in (65.48 cm) Height: 92.88 in (235.92 cm) |
| Item Weight | 33 lbs (14.97 kg) | 51.6 lbs (23.41 kg) |
| Maximum Weight Capacity | Up to 240 lbs (108.86 kg) | Up to 300 lbs (136.08 kg) |
| Maximum User Height | 6.2 ft (1.89 m) | 6.6 ft (2.01 m) |
| Adjustable Height | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Fitness Monitor | Yes | No |
| Step Counter | Yes | No |
| Resistance Levels | None | 12 |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited Warranty | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
| Other Features | Mobile Device Holder Transport Wheels |
Resistance Comparison
One of the main differences between the MaxiClimber Classic and the XL version is their resistance.
MaxiClimber Classic uses your body weight for resistance. So it does not have any resistance levels.
While the MaxiClimber XL uses your body weight and a hydraulic resistance system for resistance. Each pedal has its own hydraulic resistance system.
The XL version has 12 resistance levels. So MaxiClimber XL can give you a more challenging workout, and you can increase the resistance level as you get stronger.
Winner Resistance Comparison
The MaxiClimber XL is the winner, because it provides up to 12 levels of resistance. The MaxiClimber Classic does not have any resistance levels.
Weight Capacity Comparison
The MaxiClimber Classic has a maximum user capacity of up to 240 pounds. While the MaxiClimber XL has a maximum user capacity of up to 300 pounds.
Both machines can accommodate most users. But if you are a heavy person, it is best to invest in equipment with a higher weight capacity, which is the MaxiClimber XL.
Winner Weight Capacity Comparison
The MaxiClimber XL is the winner, because it has a higher weight capacity.
Maximum User Height Comparison
The MaxiClimber Classic has a maximum recommended user height of 6.2 feet or 1.89 meters. While the MaxiClimber XL has a maximum recommended user height of 6.6 feet or 2.01 m.
So if you are taller than 6.2 feet, then the XL version is for you. Otherwise, both machines are great.
Keep in mind the MaxiClimber XL machine is taller than the Classic version. So if you have a low ceiling, measure it first to see if there is enough head clearance when you use the machine.
If there is not enough space, it’s best to invest in the smaller version, the MaxiClimber Classic.
Winner Maximum User Height Comparison
The MaxiClimber XL is the winner, because it can accommodate both tall and short users.
Fitness Monitor Comparison
The MaxiClimber Classic includes a fitness monitor where you can track your workout data, such as time, calories, and scan. It also has a step counter, so you can track how many steps you take for each session.
The recommended battery for the fitness monitor of the Classic model is one LR44 battery.
The MaxiClimber XL does not have a fitness monitor. However, it has a mobile device holder where you can place your smartphone or tablet.
There is a MaxiClimber App compatible with both the MaxiClimber Classic and XL.
You can download this fitness app for free on Google Playstore or Apple Store. So you can have your personal fitness coach on demand and track your progress.
You can also use the fitness app to access the 21-Day Maxi-Challenge interval program and the 21-Day complete meal plan with over 80 recipes.
You cannot connect this app to the machine. The app does not count your steps, but shows the calories burned and the time duration.
So the monitor comes in handy when you don’t want to use the app.
Winner Fitness Monitor Comparison
There is no clear winner in this feature, since everybody uses fitness apps these days. The fitness monitor comes in handy, but you can still track your progress even without it.
Frame Comparison
The MaxiClimber Classic has a thinner frame. Each pedal connects to a thin inclined bar, which serves as its support.
Whereas the MaxiClimber XL has thicker metal bars for the frame. The two pedals connect to a single thick inclined bar for support.
Here are side-by-side photos of the inclined bars:
The MaxiClimber Classic weighs 33 pounds, while the MaxiClimber XL weighs 51.6 pounds. Since the XL model is heavier, it is more stable to use.
Therefore, MaxiClimber XL has a more durable and stable frame than the Classic version.
Winner Frame Comparison
The MaxiClimber XL is the winner, because it has a thicker and more stable frame than the Classic.
Handles Comparison
Both machines have two pairs of handlebars: movable and stationary. The movable handles do not have many differences; they are short, non-slip handles.
However, the stationary handles have different shapes. The stationary handles of MaxiClimber Classic are short straight bars.
While the XL has long bent handles, it is straight at the front, bends to your sides, and bends down (see photo below for reference).
The XL’s handle has a wider span. If you get out of balance and start to lose your grip, you can quickly grab onto the handles. The Classic’s handlebars are very short and harder to grasp if you lose your balance.
Winner Handles Comparison
The MaxiClimber XL is the winner, because the stationary handles have a wider span. There is no notable difference between the movable handlebars of the two machines.
Pedals Comparison
The MaxiClimber XL has wide and swiveling pedals. It also has a strap so that you can secure your feet.
This foot stap is helpful if you have balance problems or feel unsteady on the machine.
The MaxiClimber Classic has standard pedals that are non-swiveling and do not have any strap. Classic’s pedals are also narrower than the XL.
Winner Pedals Comparison
The MaxiClimber XL is the winner, because the pedals are wide, it swivels, and includes a foot strap to secure your feet.
Storage Comparison
The MaxiClimber XL covers a larger footprint than the MaxiClimber Classic. However, there is only a tiny difference in the area covered by the two pieces of equipment.
I can say they are both compact and save space. So either of the two vertical climbers is an excellent choice if you have limited space in your home gym.
MaxiClimber XL has integrated transport wheels, so it is easy to move around.
But the MaxiClimber Classic is lighter than the XL. So even if it does not have transport wheels, you can move the Classic model easily, as it only weighs around 33 pounds.
Winner Storage Comparison
There is no clear winner in this feature, because both machines are compact and easy to move around.
Price and Warranty
Both machines have the same warranty duration since they came from the same brand. They offer a one-year limited warranty.
However, the MaxiClimber XL is more expensive than the MaxiClimber Classic.
Winner Price and Warranty Comparison
The MaxiClimber Classic is the winner, because it is more affordable than the XL version. Both machines have the same warranty duration.
Maxiclimber Classic vs. XL: The Winner
This Maxiclimber Classic vs. XL review shows that the XL version is the superior vertical climber between the two for most situations.
- Apart from body weight, MaxiClimber offers up to 12 levels of resistance.
- MaxiClimber XL caters to both tall and heavy users, as it has higher weight and height recommendations.
- MaxiClimber XL has a more stable and durable frame than the Classic.
- The stationary handles of the XL version have a wider span than the Classic.
- MaxiClimber has wider and more secure pedals than the MaxiClimber Classic.
- It does not have a fitness monitor, but you can connect your device to the MaxiClimber App to track your progress.
MaxiClimber XL gives a more challenging workout and is safer to use. However, if you are on a tight budget, MaxiClimber Classic is a good choice.
Which vertical climber is best for you?
Which vertical climber is best for your budget?
If you are on a budget, I recommend the MaxiClimber Classic. The Classic is more affordable than the XL.
This basic machine is good enough for climbing exercises. You don’t necessarily need the extra features of the XL.
But if you have a little more budget, read on, because having extra resistance levels will help you improve more quickly. Also, if you are over 240 pounds or over 6.2 feet, choose the XL model.
Which vertical climber is best for your fitness level?
If you are a beginner, I recommend the MaxiCLimber Classic. It is beginner-friendly, as it only uses your body weight for resistance.
However, if you are an advanced user or beginner who wants to level up, try the MaxiClimber XL. Apart from your body weight, it has two hydraulic resistance systems, which can give you up to 12 levels of resistance.
Which vertical climber is best for your physique?
The MaxiClimber Classic has weight and height recommendations of below 240 pounds and 6.2 feet, respectively. So if your weight and height do not exceed these recommendations, the Classic version is safe for you to use.
Also, the Classic version has a narrow pedal. So check if your feet fit and if you don’t lose balance when you use the machine.
Otherwise, the MaxiClimber XL version might suit you better.
FAQ About Maxiclimber Classic vs. XL
What is the difference between MaxiClimber Classic and XL?
The main difference between MaxiClimber Classic and XL is that XL has a hydraulic resistance system that provides up to 12 levels of resistance. While MaxiClimber Classic uses only your body weight for resistance.
Also, MaxiClimber XL has a higher weight and height capacity than the MaxiClimber Classic.
Which MaxiClimber is the best?
The best MaxiClimber machine is the MaxiClimber XL. It offers up to 12 levels of resistance, caters to both tall and heavy users, and has a stable and durable frame.
Is Maxi climber XL a good workout?
According to MaxiClimber, MaxiClimber XL and Classic will burn twice as many calories per hour than a treadmill. Also, an independent study showed that the MaxiClimber helped people burn up to 45% more calories after their workout than traditional Cardio.
What to do next?
So there you have it: between the two MaxiClimber machines, the XL version seems to win out. While the Classic version is more affordable, XL is superior in essential features.
Both machines give you a great cardio workout and are excellent options for working out at home. The choice is ultimately yours, though, so look at both models and decide which one suits you best.
Before you go, we’d like to hear your thoughts. Let us know about your MaxiClimber experience with a comment below.
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