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7 Best Functional Trainers [57 Reviewed]

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Reviewed by Mike Beatty
Last Update

Looking for the best functional trainer for your home gym?

We tested 30 functional trainers against 11 critical factors – and crowned the ones that actually deserve a spot in your home gym.

Finding the right functional trainer sounds straightforward. But the deeper you go, the murkier it gets – misleading specs, bloated prices, and cable machines that feel like lawn chairs under load.

We built this guide to do three things:

  • Compare the top functional trainers in a way that combines real testing, engineering logic, and brutal honesty.
  • Help you dodge overpriced junk and find true value, whether you’re spending $700 or $6,000.
  • Give you legit options for all needs: small space, high ceilings, hybrid setups, rehab training, heavy lifting, small budget, big budget – you name it.

Let’s see how it plays out.

Related
If you’re building out your home gym, don’t miss our deep dives on the best squat racks, best weight benches, and best adjustable dumbbells.

Editor’s note:
This guide was last updated in May 2025. It was a major overhaul – several trainers were removed due to poor long-term performance or warranty issues. We’ve also added hands-on feedback for units like the REP FT-5000 and Force USA G20, and introduced clearer scoring across durability, footprint, and cable feel.


Compare the best functional trainers

Overall

Total Gym Fit
REP FT-5000
Total Gym Apex
Force USA G20
GR8FLEX
Inspire Fitness FT2
Total Gym XLS
Bells Of Steel
Total Gym Apex
Titan Plate Loaded
41gZBfyjs8L. SL75
Body Solid PFT100
Best for
Overall
Premium
With Smith Machine
Budget
Plate loaded
Smart
Amazon
Rating (*)
Quality
89%
89%
89%
83%
79%
90%
79%
Versatility
85%
99%
89%
83%
73%
73%
74%
Brand & reviews
94%
88%
89%
85%
74%
90%
74%
Ease of use
88%
81%
86%
84%
65%
90%
82%
Compactness
80%
77%
77%
82%
82%
95%
79%
Value for money
69%
49%
52%
79%
91%
60%
91%
#Exercises
100+
400+
75+
100+
50+
280+
60+
Gauge steel
11
11
12
14
12
N/A
13
Weight capacity (lbs)
448
992
330
400
660
200
420
Width (")
72
75
61
53
61
21.5
62.6
Length (")
45
67
58
30
53
5.25
42.3
Height (")
84
91
89
81
81
50.9
83
Footprint (sq ft)
22.5
34.9
24.6
11.04
22.5
0.8
18.4
Item weight (lbs)
1001
1368
700
560
178
150
476
Resistance (lbs)
224
578
165
320
660
250
420
Pulley ratio
2:1
2:1
2:1
2:1
1:1 and 2:1
2:1 and 4:1
2:1
Warranty
Lifetime frame, 1 yr parts
Lifetime frame, 2 yr parts
Lifetime frame and parts, 2 years cables
Limited lifetime
1 year
2 yr
10 yr frame, 1 yr parts
Type
12-in-1 machine 18 attachments + upgrade kit
Selectorized
Selectorized
Selectorized
Plate Loaded
Smart
Selectorized
Price
$$$
$$$$$
$$$$
$$
$
$$$
$

Our testing and selection process

We always use a 5-step process in our reviews:

  1. We start as the buyer – for example, I have my commercial gym – MyGym. Inside MyGym, I own all sorts of equipment, including a few functional trainers.
  2. We do a ton of research – we collect information on as many products as possible and insert it into a spreadsheet.
  3. We rate each functional trainer using our exclusive ‘weighted’ rating system. You can learn more about this in the section below.
  4. We use data to decide our top picks rather than personal biases toward brands.
  5. We get our hands on as many of the top picks as possible. Our community is great at helping with this.

You can read more about this process in our review guidelines.

Let’s face it – dropping serious cash on a functional trainer isn’t a spur-of-the-moment kind of move.

It’s a cornerstone investment for your home gym, and it needs to deliver day in, day out – with smooth cable action, smart adjustability, and a footprint that doesn’t hijack your entire training space.

So we approached our testing and scoring process like you’d approach setting up a home gym: smart, practical, and brutally honest.

Whether you’re kitting out a spare room or carving space between a squat rack and your car, this system focuses on six factors that matter most for real-world home training.

Here’s how we scored each one…

This covers the nuts and bolts – steel gauge, welds, pulley system smoothness, cable durability, and overall stability.

A good functional trainer should feel rock-solid under tension, whether you’re doing heavy rows or fast-paced accessory work.

No wobble, no grinding, and no fraying cables allowed.

Let’s dive a bit deeper into the quality factor when choosing a functional trainer.

Overall build is another way to describe the structure and stability of the frame.

It comes down to these three:

  1. Gauge of the steel
  2. Cross-section and shape of the tubing (especially of the main uprights)
  3. The joints and the welds

The gauge of the steel used for functional trainers is between 11 and 14 (lower is thicker).

Interpreting gauge

Gauge tells one part of the stability story.

You get the full story by interpreting it along with the cross-section (and shape of) the tubing and joints.

The cross-section of the tubing used for the best functional trainers is usually in the 6-9 square inches range.

A moment to nerd out – square vs rectangular tubing

In my experience, even when the cross-section is the same on paper, a functional trainer (any gym machine, really) will be more stable with rectangular than square tubing.

Best Functional Trainer - Gym Equipment Gauge Steel Thickness

What’s that all about? Well, it’s material mechanics.

Inch-for-inch, rectangular tubing will always be stronger than square.

The explanation involves saying stuff like “strong and weak axis” and “moments of inertia.”

I won’t do that.

Instead, let’s be super practical…

Here’s a three-rule bottom line:

  1. Go for functional trainers made of at least 14-gauge steel and have a cross-section of no less than 6 square inches.
  2. If you’re spending over 2K, look for 11 or 12-gauge and at least 7 square inches.
  3. With all other things equal, go for the rectangular tubing profiles.

Don’t obsess over the numbers, especially since they’re not always available in the specs.

That covers the part that’s under your control.

For our picks, we covered the rest of it, like the quality of the welds and joints.

All the best functional trainers feature aluminum, nylon, or fiberglass pulleys and steel cables.

On the higher end of that spectrum, the pulleys are strengthened by (or made of) aluminum, which is the most durable.

Reality check – you’re limited by the weight stack or the loadable space, and the cables and pulleys can easily take on double the weight.

What that means for you

There’s little point in jacking the price up by specifically looking for aluminum pulleys. It’s an expensive game that’s not worth playing. 

If you have the option to choose between nylon and fiberglass, go for the latter. It’s much stronger.

This one is messy with no real reason.

Sure, the physics behind the pulley ratio is complicated…it’s good news that you don’t need to understand it to choose right.

Here goes…

A pulley ratio is a number that describes how much of the weight gets to your end of the cables.

Secondly, it affects the travel length of the cable.

Most commonly, it’s 2:1, which means that popping that pin into the hole marked 100 lbs will give you 50 lbs of weight.

Simple.

1-to-1 vs 2-to-1 vs 3-to-1 vs 4-to-1 pulley cable ratio

What it means for you: If you’re not a beginner or recovering from an injury, go for a 2:1 ratio.

That will give you plenty of weight and cable length and make the increments better for super sets and controlled progress.

If you’re a beginner, you can look for a machine with a 4:1 ratio to lower the starting weight and the increments.

I don’t recommend that.

The 4:1 machines are rare and expensive.

None of our picks comes with a 4:1 pulley ratio. 

Instead…

Just get a 2:1 machine and some microload magnetic plates (2.5 or 5 lbs) like the ones below.

It’s a cheap workaround that avoids replacing an expensive machine in 6 months.

This will get you through to the other side…the other side being a fitness/strength level where a 2:1 ratio is just right.

The whole point of a functional trainer is, well, function.

We looked at how many exercises the machine supports, how adjustable the arms are, the range of motion, and whether it works for both beginners and advanced lifters.

Bonus points go to functional trainers that allow full-body workouts without needing extra gear.

Let’s take a closer look at what separates a true full-body machine from a one-trick cable rig:

I have a two-punch approach to judging the versatility of a functional trainer – it’s the basic-advanced combo.

Basic and advanced versatility explained

Basic versatility comes down to 4 things:

  1. The trainer features fully functional pulleys with a minimum of 15 height adjustment settings.
  2. There is a swiveling, adjustable pulley system (side-to-side).
  3. The geometry allows for full functionality for different body types.
  4. The included attachments cover all the basics.

To put it simply, good functional trainers allow the majority of people to perform the majority of intended exercises comfortably and correctly.

All the top 9 functional trainers on our list tick that box.

Advanced versatility is about having extra stuff.

In those terms, two machines stand out:

  1. The Inspire FT2 because it’s the only classic functional trainer here that features a Smith machine.
  2. The Force USA G20 because it features everything and anything you can expect from a good all-in-one.
What this means for you

Here’s THE question – do you already have a home gym, or are you just starting out?

Let’s break it down…

If you’re just starting out, take the time to decide whether you have the space for the standalone machines. If not, the G20 is a lifesaver.

If you already have some stuff and are looking specifically for a functional trainer, the decision will come down to whether you have/want/need a Smith machine.

If you already have it or don’t need it, go for a traditional unit like the FT-5000.

Finally…

If you do need a Smith machine and don’t have it, go with the FT2 and thank me later.

I could go down the look-what-I-know road here and make this super complicated.

I won’t do that.

I won’t go into the nitty-gritty of every machine that can be considered a functional trainer.

Instead, I’ll make this simple.

The machine we’re talking about today is what most people have in mind when they say “functional trainer” – two uprights with top and bottom pulleys and two loads. You might have heard them referred to as ‘cable stations’ in some places.

Like the one below…

Standard Functional Trainer

If that’s not what you’re looking for, you can find your single columns, crossovers, and all that other stuff in our guide on the best cable machines here.

Anyway, back to what I’d call a “classic” functional trainer.

There are two main types to choose from – the selectorized and the plate-loaded.

“Selectorized” means that there is a built-in weight stack. You pop a pin in to select the weight… bada bing bada boom.

The plate-loaded trainers use weight plates for resistance (duh!).

They’re not bigger or smaller per design, but they require more space because you need to maneuver around them when loading/unloading.

They usually come with adapter sleeves that allow you to use both standard and Olympic weight plates.

If you have the budget, go for a selectorized model.

These are far more convenient and way cooler.

Since they’re more expensive to begin with, these are also usually better made in terms of finishes, materials, and attention to detail.

If the money is tight and space is a-plenty, an old-school plate-loaded unit will do just fine.

The one outlier on the list – a smart functional trainer

There’s one outlier that doesn’t belong to either group because it uses electronic resistance. It’s the Tonal smart home gym.

It’s the best smart functional trainer, and it exists in a class of its own.

We considered long-term customer satisfaction, brand history, and how well the company supports its products.

A solid warranty, responsive customer service, and a clean track record carry weight, just not as much as real-world performance.

That’s why this factor in the case of functional trainers received only 5% – because no name, however trusted, can make up for weak design.

Now let’s break down why a brand’s history matters – and where it stops mattering…

The warranty you get on a functional trainer is not just about time coverage.

It’s a testament to how well the machine is put together and how willing the manufacturer is to stand behind the marketing lingo.

The tall tales of the specs and descriptions

If everything is as rosy as they’d have you believe in the specs, why limit the warranty?

Why cover a piece of 12-gauge steel for only a year?

For me, it’s not about the frame….that’s not going anywhere….a sub-par warranty raises questions about the joints and the parts.

These are my warranty rule of thumb (#1 is crucial):

  1. If you’re paying over 2K for a functional trainer, expect a lifetime warranty on the frame.
  2. A lifetime warranty on parts is a plus, not a must.
  3. The upholstery should be covered in some way, even if it’s for 30 or 90 days.
  4. Finally, if a functional trainer is covered by a commercial warranty, tick that box and move on. In a home gym, that machine will take a beating and dust it off with zero issues.

Can you adjust the functional trainer quickly mid-workout? Are the pulleys intuitive to position? Is it solo-friendly?

These are the things that make a functional trainer either a smooth training partner or a frustrating piece of metal.

The best machines feel effortless to operate and don’t make you think twice between sets.

Let’s zoom in a bit more on the details that make a difference when you’re mid-set:

Ease of use isn’t just about convenience – it’s about keeping your workouts flowing.

We looked at how quickly the pulleys adjust, how intuitive the arm settings are, and whether you can transition between exercises without breaking your rhythm.

A good functional trainer should feel like second nature, not a puzzle.

A good functional trainer should not feel like a puzzle

Home gym space is almost always limited.

Machines that offer commercial-grade performance without demanding commercial-grade real estate scored higher.

We factored in actual footprint, ceiling clearance needs, and how much usable space they leave around them.

Here’s what we looked for when judging how well each machine plays with tight home gym spaces.

You’ll need between 10 and 30 square inches of corner space for a functional trainer.

You can see the graph comparing the footprints below.

Tonal is the exception on the lower end because it’s 5 inches wide when not in use.

On the high end, the outlier is the Force USA G20, which is an all-in-one and a behemoth by nature.

Size or Footprint Comparison of Best Functional Trainers

Physical footprint vs actual-use footprint of a functional trainer

Instead of just going with the numbers in the graph, do some math on the space you’ll need to actually use the functional trainer.

I know that this sounds commonplace and should go without saying, but you’d be surprised by how many people get this part wrong.

My approach – low row and pull-up as a reference

Have these two “rules” in mind:

  1. You’ll never use more floor space than on the low row.
  2. You’ll never use more vertical space than on the pull-up.

Doing the math for these two will tell you if the functional trainer is too big for your floor and ceiling.

I mean…we could split hairs, but I’m all about simplicity.

The two rules above are just that – super simple, and they cover all the non-crazies.

The one exception to rule #1 – Inspire FT2

The Inspire FT2 smartly features pulleys in the middle part of the machine.

That changes the math.

It’s the most space-efficient solution for low rows because you’re using the physical footprint.

Therefore, if you’re buying the Inspire FT2, do the math based on a bench press instead of the low row.

Space planning - Other Functional Trainers vs Inspire FT2

Before we move on to the analysis, let’s look at the height comparison graph.

Comparing the Height of the Top-Rated Functional Trainers

There are three height aspects to consider:

  1. Your ceiling height – can you comfortably do a pull-up?
  2. The height of the top pulley position.
  3. Are you likely to use it for muscle-ups?

The first and last points are pretty straightforward because the top bar/handles are typically the highest point of a functional trainer.

Here’s the math…

  • Add at least 15 inches to the total height (as listed in the specs).
  • If that number is lower than your ceiling height, you’re good.

That gives you enough space for regular pull-ups….and kipping on the functional trainer is probably not a great idea unless it’s a heavy, stable machine…

Is that enough space?

Again, I could be a prude here and go for at least 20 inches of clearance, but that might not work.

It would eliminate the majority of the functional trainers.

Why?

Because they’re all in the 77-90 height range, and the average ceiling height in the USA is 96 inches.

It means you have to really consider the room where you’ll be using your functional trainer if you intend to do muscle-ups with it.

Height of the top pulley position

This is an overhyped factor…that’s my opinion.

Two reasons for that:

  1. It’s only significant if you’re unusually tall (I’d say in the top 3 percentile).
  2. Even for the tall, it’s not a deal breaker…it just means the angles might be slightly off on some exercises.

To sum all this up, any functional trainer with the top pulley position higher than 55 “ will do just fine, even for the tall.

If it’s in the 50-55 range, the machine will lose a bit of its functionality for people over 6’1.

Some of the best functional trainers fall into this height bracket.

A $5K machine better feel like $5K.

We weighed features, build, functionality, and warranty against cost.

Machines that deliver more than you’d expect at their price point ranked highest, especially those with proven long-term durability and thoughtful design choices.

Let’s unpack what “worth it” really means when you’re staring down a four-figure price tag.

I said that you shouldn’t spend more than 5K on a functional trainer for a home gym unless it’s a commercial unit.

Let’s elaborate on that in 3 concise points and a comparison graph:

  1. A high-quality functional trainer can cost between 1 and 10K.
  2. A majority of the quality functional trainers for home gyms are in the 1.5-5K range, and the best value lives in the 1.5-2.5K bracket.
  3. Once you go below that, the only units still worth buying are plate-loaded.

    The Titan Fitness functional trainer is the case in point – its selectorized cousin will set you back twice as much.

For reference, the graph below compares the prices of the 20 top-rated functional trainers.

Comparing the Prices of Top Functional Trainers


Find your perfect functional trainer

Best overall | With Smith Machine | Budget | Premium | Plate Loaded | Smart | Amazon


1. Overall best functional trainer – REP Fitness FT-5000

Overall Best FT
REP Fitness FT-5000
Rep Fitness FT-5000
Quick specs
Type: Selectorized
Dimensions: 45 x 72 x 84 “
Item weight: 1000 lbs
Weight capacity: 220
Pulley ratio: 2:1

This functional trainer hits the sweet spot between commercial feel, top quality, smart design, and a price that doesn’t punch you in the wallet.

89/100 Overall Score
89

Quality (25%)

85

Versatility (25%)

94

Brand & Reviews (5%)

88

Ease of Use (10%)

80

Compactness (10%)

69

Value for money (25%)

Main praises – what I like

  • Heavier and sturdier than the competition – Stays firmly planted on the ground, even during explosive pulls or low rows.
  • Details make a difference – The pop pins, pulley housings, and finish all feel more premium than you’d expect at this price point.

Main grievances – what could be better

  • It’s wide – The extra stability comes at the cost of space, so smaller home gyms may feel the squeeze.

Pros

  • Great value – commercial-like quality at a fraction of the price
  • Heavier stacks than the competition – 220 lbs per side
  • Adjustable for different body types
  • Multiple grip options on the chin-up bar
  • Easy to put together (ships partially assembled)

Cons

  • It’s bigger than the competitors (42 sq. inches footprint)
  • Not the best fit for the tall (handle tops out at 52 inches)

If you want the feel of a commercial gym without spending a fortune, the FT-5000 is as good as it gets.

It outmuscles its competitors with smarter design, higher stack weight, and better finish quality.

Just make sure you’ve got the floor space to let it shine.

The FT-5000 is the best functional trainer for most home gyms because it gets the quality-functionality-price trifecta just right.

First of all, it’s built better than functional trainers in its price range, which is the most competitive (we’ll get back to this point in a minute).

Secondly, it’s a selectorized trainer (you pop a pin in to select the weight) with 440 lbs of weight, which is 10% more than its main competitors.

Selectorized Weight Capacity of Functional Trainers

All that is mounted on a beefy 11-gauge frame that stabilizes it. This lets you use every ounce of the weight…even on the low row, which tends to be problematic.

Thirdly, it costs a bit less than the competition.

Combine all three, and you get a trainer that feels and looks premium at a less-than-premium price.

Now, to dig a bit deeper into the first point…

There are three popular functional trainers in this price range that are very similar – the Xmark XM-7626, Titan Fitness, and this REP.

The differences between the three are subtle, but most of those aspects give a slight advantage to the FT-500:

To name a few:

  1. It’s heavier and bigger, which makes it feel similar to the functional trainer at your commercial gym. Stability is a huge point – I’m familiar with functional trainers that can literally be pulled over with a strong tug.
  2. The stacks are bigger – 440 lbs vs. 400 on the Titan and the Xmark functional trainer.
  3. The finishes are finer and more precise, which gives it a premium feel.
  4. The attention to detail is better…the little stuff that makes a world of difference – from the housing of the pulleys to the magnetic pop-pins.

You get my drift here – it’s just a peg better in many ways, and that stuff adds up.

On the other hand, the heft comes at a cost – it takes up more space than the competition, primarily because it’s wider. Something to consider if space is a premium in your home gym.

Bottom line – this is as close to a commercial trainer as you’ll get without breaking the bank.

Check the REP Fitness FT-5000 price and overview here.


2. Premium functional trainer – Force USA G20

Premium FT
Force USA G20
Force USA G20
Quick specs
Type: Selectorized
Dimensions: 67 x 79 x 91 ” (base unit); 95 x 79 x 91 ” (upgraded)
Weight stacks: 2 x 289 lbs
Pulley ratio: 2:1
Weight increments: 10 lbs

An all-in-one powerhouse functional trainer that crams 14 commercial-grade stations into a single, beastly frame.

83/100 Overall Score
89

Quality (25%)

99

Versatility (25%)

88

Brand & Reviews (5%)

81

Ease of Use (10%)

77

Compactness (10%)

49

Value for money (25%)

Main praises – what I like

  • Ridiculously versatile – from leg press to lat pulldowns, it’s a full gym in one footprint.
  • Solid as a tank – the heaviest, most stable unit on the list, built for serious lifting and serious lifters.

Main grievances – what could be better

  • Takes up serious space – despite being marketed for home use, it’s still a commercial-sized monster.

Pros

  • As versatile as a gym machine gets
  • Rugged build – 11-gauge frame
  • Premium cables – 2000-lbs tensile strength
  • Two pulley ratios (2:1 and 1:1) – uses full weight on lat pulldowns

Cons

  • Big and tall
  • Expensive
  • Resistance on the low row might not be enough for advanced lifters

If you want everything in one machine and have the budget to match, the G20 is unmatched in functionality. It’s a pro-level system disguised as a home gym unit –and it absolutely delivers on that promise.

The label “premium” doesn’t do the G20 justice because it’s more than that.

Much more…

In the upgraded version, it’s home to 14 training stations – everything from a functional trainer, power rack, and Smith machine to low row, leg press, and a core trainer.

That’s what separates it from the classic units like REP, Xmark, or Titan – the all-in-one versatility.

It’s also the most solid and heavy machine out there, so if safety is your concern, this is probably the best functional trainer for you.

Weight of Functional Trainers

They solved the ratio problem

The G20 now has a 2:1 ratio instead of a 1:1 ratio.

There are three key points to make here:

  1. The 1:1 ratio was the one problem that kept it from many a top spot in the past because it was too heavy for many people, and the cables had little travel.
  2. For the lat pulldown, you need the 1:1 because the resistance would be too low at 2:1.
  3. There’s one downside to the new design – the resistance of the low row. It’s a 2:1 station that attaches to one stack, which might not be enough for the beasts among you.

All things considered, the G20 is the most rock-solid, do-it-all machine you can put in a home gym. It’s not cheap, but it houses 14 stations and is the absolute king of versatility.

Check the Force USA G20 price and overview here.


3. Best functional trainer with Smith machine – Inspire Fitness FT2

FT With Smith Machine
Inspire Fitness FT2
Inspire Fitness FT2 Functional Trainer
Quick specs
Type: Selectorized
Dimensions: 58 x 61 x 89 “
Item weight: 700 lbs
Weight capacity: 330 to 430 lbs
Pulley ratio: 2:1 (optional 1:1)

With a built-in Smith machine, mid-pulley setup, and clever cable routing, the FT2 stands out as the most feature-rich and self-contained functional trainer on the market.

84/100 Overall Score
89

Quality (25%)

89

Versatility (25%)

89

Brand & Reviews (5%)

86

Ease of Use (10%)

77

Compactness (10%)

52

Value for money (25%)

Main praises – what I like

  • The built-in Smith machine with smart cable integration feels purpose-built for solo training – no awkward plate loading or safety concerns.
  • Extra mid and upper pulleys make a real difference for low rows and curls, all while keeping your footprint tight.

Main grievances – what could be better

  • The Smith bar feels a bit plasticky and dull – fine for most, but a letdown for serious barbell aficionados.
  • Nylon pulleys are practical but don’t have that buttery-smooth feel, and they’ll show wear over time.

Pros

  • Includes a Smith machine
  • Extra pulleys for low rows and curls (middle frame section)
  • Separate column for a lat pulldown
  • Works in both 2:1 and 1:1 ratios
  • Pairs with a bench for leg extensions and curls

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Nylon pulleys (not as durable or smooth as aluminum)
  • The assembly is not straightforward & needs better instructions

The FT2 earns its place on this list by blending classic functional trainer elements with clever additions like an integrated Smith system and dual pulley ratios.

It’s clearly designed for home users who want more freedom and fewer workarounds.

A few finish flaws aside, this machine punches way above its price tag in terms of engineering and usability.

This is one of the best standalone functional trainers built specifically for a home gym.

I understand that’s a bold thing to say.

And I stand by it still.

Now, if you wanted to nitpick on the FT2, you could find ways to do it:

  1. You could compare this to one of the Force USA machines.
  2. You could compare it to modular setups like REP Ares.

Both arguments above have an inherent flaw:

  1. Force USA machines are all-in-ones….and the one we like most (G20) costs more.
  2. REP Ares is great, but it’s not a standalone functional trainer – it’s a rack attachment.

The good and the unique

First of all, FT2 hits all the major bases of good classic trainers like the FT-5000 – from the solid pulleys and cables to the heavy stack (215 lbs per stack in the upgraded version).

What I’d like to focus on here is the unique stuff:

  • The Smith machine
  • The extra pulleys
  • The two ratios of the pulley system
  • The optional pairing with their bench that allows for isolated leg work – extensions and curls

The Smith machine

The Smith machine is unique among standalone functional trainers.

And it’s not a gimmick, either.

There are no weights, but there is a smartly designed notch that connects the stacks to the Smith bar.

The whole system is designed for working out alone.

You choose the weight, get into position and engage the Smith bar by rotating it.

This does two things: connects the stacks and fixes the safety mechanism.

Some smart engineering went into designing this…kudos for that.

What could be better

The finish of the Smith bar could and should be better. The surface feels slick and “plasticky,” with a dull knurl.

However, given that you won’t be performing the Olympic lifts or gripping and ripping a heavy deadlift with the Smith machine bar, I’m willing to overlook this as a detail.

It’s still good enough for most people.

The advanced lifter coming to this machine from a good ol’ barbell will probably be disappointed. At this point, it’s important to put the bar and its limitations into perspective, though.

It’s not a stand-alone bar, and it’s not going to be competition quality.

Extra slots on the pulley system

The extra pulleys (4 in the lower middle part and two at the top) do two things – they add functionality and lower the space needed for low rows and curls.

On a classic functional trainer like the FT-5000, you’d use the pulleys on the columns and go way outside the footprint to do a low row.

On the FT2, you’re “inside” the machine.

This is a space-saver with a caveat – if you plan to press and do leg work on the FT2, you’ll still need the extra space for the bench.

Dual pulley system – 2:1 or 1:1  ratio

“Dual pulley system” sounds more complicated than it is.

The actual ratio is 2:1, but you can connect two cables into one on the Smith machine and the middle pulleys, and effectively get the full weight of the stack.

It’s an overhyped feature if you ask me.

It’s well-executed but essential for the full functionality of the middle pulleys and the Smith bar.

And that’s what you’re paying for.

Bragging about it is like a car bragging about having wheels.

Vroom, vroom…we get it…

Immature jokes aside, the one direct advantage here is the weight you can use on the low row.

An intermediate lifter will need at least 200 lbs for rows, and a typical functional trainer has 70-80 lbs of resistance per side.

This makes the FT2 one of the few functional trainers with full low-row functionality.

What could be better

The pulleys are made of nylon, which means they won’t feel as smooth, and you will see some wear over time.

However, nylon is gentler on the cables, and they’re less likely to fray or snap, which is the most common critical failure I’ve seen on functional trainers.

Check the Inspire Fitness FT-2 price and overview here.


4. Best budget functional trainer – Bells of Steel FT

Budget Pick
Bells of Steel FT
Bells of Steel FT
Quick specs
Type: Selectorized
Dimensions: 30 x 53 x 81 “
Item weight: 560 lbs
Weight capacity: 320 lbs
Pulley ratio: 2:1

A smart pick for budget-conscious lifters, this machine nails the essentials, especially the pulleys, without cutting corners where it counts.

82/100 Overall Score
83

Quality (25%)

83

Versatility (25%)

85

Brand & Reviews (5%)

84

Ease of Use (10%)

82

Compactness (10%)

84

Value for money (25%)

Main praises – what I like

  • Aluminum pulleys glide like butter – and they’re built to last longer than the budget would suggest.
  • Cables feel premium – I didn’t notice any slack, fraying, or uneven resistance even after weeks of use.

Main grievances – what could be better

  • Lower-end finish on the frame – small things like coating and weld finesse don’t quite match the higher-end machines.

Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Premium aluminum pulleys
  • Compact – smaller footprint than most
  • Stainless steel, knurled handles
  • Great warranty terms (lifetime)

Cons

  • 14-gauge steel (not as thick as the competitor’s)
  • The top pulley position might be too low for tall lifters

Bells of Steel’s functional trainer punches above its price class by focusing on what matters – solid pulleys, reliable cables, and smart engineering.

It’s not built like a tank, but unless you’re going full beast mode every session, it’s more than enough for most home gyms.

The Bells of Steel functional trainer is the runner-up for one key reason: the price.

But “price” probably isn’t the best wording because it implies that it’s cheap and there’s something wrong with the machine.

That’s not the case.

It hits home runs in all the major quality aspects, excels in a few, and does it for less money than the competition from REP, Fray, Titan, and Xmark.

They did the best job where it counts the most – the pulleys.

Aluminum pulleys are expensive

But their reasoning for splurging on the pulleys is sound.

Pulleys and cables are two parts of a functional trainer that constantly move. If you think back to all the gym fails you’ve seen, you won’t remember a clip of a functional trainer collapsing.

You’ll probably remember a clip of a cable snapping, though.

The other side of that coin is that aluminum pulleys are not as gentle on the cables as nylon or fiberglass.

I’ve reviewed dozens of Bells of Steel cable machines over the years, and I’ve never seen a problem with their steel cables.

That’s crucial.

If that weren’t the case, Aluminum pulleys would be moot.

Not the most stable unit – you’ll see some wobble and rattle

The trade-off for the competitive price is the 14-gauge steel.

That’s the “thinnest” in our top 9.

Furthermore, the 14-gauge is paired with square tubing, which will never be as strong and stable as a rectangular profile (more on that in the buyer’s guide).

What it means for you

It means that you should skip it if you’re an advanced lifter doing a lot of explosive pulls.

The heavier machines, like the REP or the Inspire, are more stable.

On the other hand, I know how Bells of Steel makes the joints and welds, so 8 out of 10 people will never notice the difference.

Check the Bells of Steel FT price and overview here.


5. Best plate-loaded pick – Titan Fitness Functional Trainer

Best Plate-Loaded FT
Titan Fitness Functional Trainer
Titan Fitness Plate Loaded Functional Trainer
Quick specs
Type: Plate-loaded
Dimensions: 53 x 61 x 81 “
Item weight: 178 lbs
Weight capacity: 660 lbs
Pulley ratio: 2:1

A straightforward plate-loaded trainer that delivers old-school functionality with solid performance.

80/100 Overall Score
79

Quality (25%)

73

Versatility (25%)

74

Brand & Reviews (5%)

65

Ease of Use (10%)

82

Compactness (10%)

91

Value for money (25%)

Main praises – what I like

  • Built like a classic workhorse – the solid frame and simple mechanics give it a sturdy, dependable feel.
  • Smooth cable action for a plate-loaded unit – better than expected in both resistance feel and motion fluidity.

Main grievances – what could be better

  • Manually changing plates slows things down – not ideal for circuits or quick drop sets.
  • Limited convenience features – no built-in storage, no magnetic pins, just barebones utility.

Pros

  • Cheaper than weight stacks
  • Full control of the weight increments and progress
  • Robust, 12-gauge frame

Cons

  • Not as convenient as selectorized stacks
  • Requires extra space for loading/unloading

If you prefer the tactile feel and simplicity of a plate-loaded setup, the Titan delivers.

It’s a heavy-duty, minimal-fuss machine that focuses on core function – and mostly nails it.

The best functional trainer among the plate-loaded machines is this beefy Titan.

The competition in this category isn’t fierce since most of the plate-loaded trainers are either cable crossover machines or towers.

The only real competition to Titan is the Powertec Streamline, which is very similar in design but costs about 70% more for a lower weight capacity.

The main advantage of this Titan – it’s great value for the money.

The main drawback – it’s not as fast, cool, or convenient as the stacked trainers.

If you fully understand what to expect (and not expect) from a plate-loaded trainer, this rugged Titan will not disappoint.

And it will leave room in the home gym budget for other coolness.

Check the Titan Fitness plate-loaded functional trainer price and overview here.


6. Best smart functional trainer – Tonal

Smart Functional Trainer
Tonal Smart Home Gym
Tonal Smart Home Gym
Quick specs
Type: Smart
Dimensions: 5.25 x 21.5 x 50.9 “
Item weight: 150 lbs
Weight capacity: 200 lbs
Pulley ratio: 1:1

The Tonal is the most versatile smart functional trainer out there, thanks to its fully adjustable arms and solid resistance output.

80/100 Overall Score
90

Quality (25%)

73

Versatility (25%)

90

Brand & Reviews (5%)

90

Ease of Use (10%)

95

Compactness (10%)

60

Value for money (25%)

Main praises – what I like

  • The adjustable arms offer cable freedom rarely seen in smart home gyms – a huge win for training variety.
  • Its 200 lbs of total digital resistance feels surprisingly smooth and consistent, even during fast-paced reps.

Main grievances – what could be better

  • You’ll need a strong Wi-Fi connection – no internet, no workout.
  • Setup and installation are a bit of a process.

Pros

  • Fully adjustable arms
  • Wall-mounted, compact design
  • Great software and user interface for guided workouts
  • Futuristic yet minimal look

Cons

  • It’s expensive and requires professional installation
  • Resistance doesn’t feel the same as weight stacks/plates

Tonal stands out in the smart gym world by doing what others don’t – giving you adjustable arms and real training flexibility.

It’s not a replacement for heavy iron, but for guided, tech-infused training in tight spaces, it’s the best pick of the bunch.

Even though I’m not a fan of Tonal compared to other smart home gyms, it’s the best functional trainer among them…no doubt about that.

The reasons go beyond the fanciness – it’s two things above all else:

  1. The fully adjustable arms
  2. The 100 lbs of resistance per side

The adjustable arms are the greater factor of the two.

They make Tonal crazy versatile compared to the competition. 

Bear in mind that its competitors are not the Force USA machines.

It’s the smart all-in-one home gyms like Speediance and Mirror. These typically have a fixed pulley-to-pulley distance or have no pulleys to begin with.

In terms of manipulating the cable position to change stuff up, Tonal is up there with the most expensive functional trainers like the G20 and Freemotion.

All in all, Tonal is the best functional trainer among the smart home gyms. It’s all about the versatility of the fully adjustable arms.

Check the Tonal price and overview here.


7. Best functional trainer from Amazon – Body-Solid Powerline PFT100

Best Amazon FT
Body-Solid PFT 100
Body-Solid Powerline PFT100
Quick specs
Type: Selectorized
Dimensions: 42 x 63 x 83
Item weight: 476 lbs
Weight capacity: 320 (upgradeable to 420 lbs)
Pulley ratio: 2:1

The Body-Solid PFT100 is the bare-bones dual-stack functional trainer that proves “budget” doesn’t always mean “junk”.

79/100 Overall Score
79

Quality (25%)

74

Versatility (25%)

74

Brand & Reviews (5%)

82

Ease of Use (10%)

79

Compactness (10%)

91

Value for money (25%)

Main praises – what I like

  • You get two stacks and smooth operation at a price where most brands only offer one – huge value play.
  • The build feels stable and surprisingly refined for the price point.

Main grievances – what could be better

  • Shipping and packaging can be hit or miss – missing hardware or slow delivery isn’t unheard of.
  • The pulley adjustment system feels a bit dated and clunky compared to higher-end models.

Pros

  • Great value – cheap but well-built
  • Compact
  • Upgradeable stacks

Cons

  • Shipping and assembly can be problematic
  • Smaller weight stacks than most functional trainers (on the base unit)

The PFT100 is the cheapest dual-stack trainer worth owning. It delivers solid basics without fluff, and if you’re lucky with the shipping, it’s a steal for home gym owners focused on fundamentals.

This Body Solid is the cheapest you can go and still get a functional trainer with dual weight stacks.

Let’s illustrate that in three points:

  1. The cheaper selectorized units that come to mind use a single stack, and the resistance on those is far too low.
  2. Our top plate-loaded pick (Titan Fitness Functional Trainer) only costs about 20% less.
  3. Some functional trainers we looked at cost 500-600% more.

It’s all about value with this one.

The PFT1000 is a cheap but well-built functional trainer that delivers on the basics and never tries to be more.

Check the Body-Solid Powerline PFT100 price and overview here.


Here are our criteria on how we picked these barbells, and what we looked for:

  • Quality (25%)
  • Versatility (25%)
  • Brand reputation & reviews (5%)
  • Ease of use (10%)
  • Compactness (10%)
  • Value for money (25%)

You can find out all about our selection process here.


The section below is an overview of the machines that didn’t make it into the Top 9.

The list is home to some extremely popular machines like the Xmark XM-7626, as well as some premium options like the Rogue FT-1.

Some serious candidates for your next functional trainers are on here.

In other words – read it!

  • XMark functional trainer/cable machine (XM-7626) – by far the most popular and highly-rated functional trainer machines on Amazon, with user ratings you see once in a blue moon. It still is one of the best, but some similar machines (like REP Fitness FT-5000) are better for the same money, and others are of similar quality and cost less (like the Bells of Steel).

    It’s about as good as the Titan Fitness functional trainer.

    It’s still a viable candidate for the best value functional trainer in the upcoming updates.
  • BodyCraft HFT PRO – an updated, better version of HFT. It’s good in most aspects but great in a few. It’s ultimately more basic than machines in its price range – dual-weight stacks and solid pulleys.
  • Fray Fitness functional trainer – similarly to the XMark, this Fray ticks most boxes…even some left blank by the top picks, like being rated for commercial use.

    With that said, it comes with smaller dual-weight stacks (under 200 lbs) than most functional trainers and offers little beyond the traditional features. It also might be too tall for some a home or garage gym (6 inches taller than the FT-5000 and full 9 inches compared to Bells of Steel).
  • Titan Fitness double-stack functional trainer (the selectorized version) – made to compete with the likes of FT-5000,  this makes for good value. It should cost 10-20% less to be a viable candidate for the best budget functional trainer.
  • Body-Solid BFFT10R compact functional trainer –  this one is ugly as sin. If you can get past the morbid burgundy and the single weight stack, you’ll find a decent, old-school value.
  • Rogue FT-1 – a high-quality, heavy-duty functional trainer that’s too expensive for most home gyms. If you’re spending this kind of money, you should be getting extra resistance training options, like with the Inspire FT2 or the G20.

    If that’s not important to you and you just want the meanest-looking machine, this can easily be it.
  • Freemotion dual cable – a premium functional trainer many people’s favorite because of the fully adjustable angles.

    I have three points to make about it. One – it’s great. Two –  it’s not as good as its predecessor. Three – it’s way too expensive for home gyms. It’s undeniably cool, though.
  • REP Ares functional trainer/cable machine – if you’re just starting out and don’t have a rack, pairing one of REP’s racks with the Ares is a more versatile setup than any standalone functional trainer machine. Having said that, this guide would be overly complicated if we included attachments and the wall-mounted stuff.
  • TRX PRO4 – if we were going this wide and covering all functional training, the PRO4 would most likely take home the title of the best portable functional trainer. We’re only interested in the traditional units, though.
  • Panatta Inside – one of the most complete pieces of fitness equipment I know and a likely candidate for the title of the best commercial functional trainer.

    Still, way too much going on here for an average home gym (and its budget).

Is a functional trainer worth it?

Yes, a functional trainer is absolutely worth it because a versatile unit like the REP Fitness FT-5000 can replace the better part of a home gym and give you a full-body workout.

The classic models are great for isolation exercises like pulls and curls, while some of the modern ones feature a Smith bar and allow for compound lifts.

All that is especially true if space is limited and every inch counts.
There’s also a cost factor here.

If you were to individually buy the equipment needed to replicate everything a functional trainer could offer, it’d cost you far more.

Can you build muscle with a functional trainer?

Yes, you can build muscle using a functional trainer, especially the better ones like the REP Fitness FT-5000. Building muscle relies on mechanical tension – as long as you provide muscles with said tension, you’re on the right track. A functional trainer does that very effectively.

It’s not a replacement for free weights, but multiple studies (like this one) found similar muscle growth in free-weight and machine workouts.

Furthermore, functional trainers showed an advantage over fixed-path selectorized machines because of the greater range of motion and stabilizer activation (study).

Finally, functional trainers feel safer on some lifts, allowing you to push your limits and stimulate hypertrophy in a way that would feel unsafe with free weights (like burnout sessions).

Can you do squats on a functional trainer?

Yes, you can do squats on a functional trainer.

To do that, choose a machine that comes with a Smith bar, like the Inspire FT2, or a functional trainer mounted onto a rack, like REP Ares.

What is the difference between a home gym and a functional trainer?

The difference between a home gym and a functional trainer is size and versatility.

A functional trainer, although versatile, is typically smaller and has no ambition to replace a whole gym.

A home gym like the Force USA G20 (also known as an all-in-one) aims to do just that – offer stations for every single muscle group.


The bottom line

We’re proud of the work we did here because a functional trainer is a complicated machine, and the competition is fierce.

Getting clarity on which of these is the best is no small feat, but I feel like we did it.

Here’s a quick resume…

For most people, the REP Fitness FT-5000 will be the best functional trainer for the money.

If you’re on a budget, you can save 20-30% and not lose any functionality; go for the Bells of Steel unit. It’s also the machine for you if you have lower-than-average ceilings (it’s 81 inches high).

If you like the idea of not getting a separate Smith machine, the Inspire FT2 comes with one. It also comes with a price to match the unique features.

To skip back to the table with the top picks, click here.

Photo of author
Steve Hoyles is a certified personal trainer and gym owner. Since graduating with his Sports Science degree in 2004 he's worked in the fitness industry, helping thousands of people reach their health and fitness goals. His writing has been read by millions of people in over 170 countries as he inspires to help as many people as possible live a healthy lifestyle.

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