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Cable machines are versatile pieces of workout equipment that can turn the average home gym into a serious training facility. They can be used for weight training or functional training, and the best cable machines can accommodate dozens to hundreds of different types of exercises, depending on which one you choose.
Cable machines are an investment, though, so you want to make sure you're choosing one that can accommodate your needs and is built to last. To narrow down your choices, we compiled a list of top picks based on factors like build, functionality, price, and space constraints.
The Best Cable Machines - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Cable Machine: REP Fitness FT-5000
- Best Compact Cable Machine: Tonal
- Best Attachable Cable Machine: Rogue CT-1 Cable Tower
- Best Premium Cable Machine: FORCE USA G20 All-In-One Trainer
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Best Cable Machine for Home Gym: XMARK Functional Trainer Cable Machine
- Best Budget Cable Machine: Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym
- Best Cable Machine for Beginners: Valor Fitness BD-62 Wall Mount Cable Station
- Best Cable Cross-over Machine: FreeMotion Dual Cable EXT Crossover
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Best Overall Cable Machine - REP Fitness FT-5000
SPECS
- Max weight: 440 lbs.
- Material: 11-gauge steel
- Height: 84"
The frame is made of a double powder-coated 11-gauge steel with aluminum pulleys and has multiple rubber-coated pull-up grips so you can do several variations right on the machine. While it comes with just two strap handles, it has multiple storage pegs that allow you to organize any extra attachments you purchase to keep everything neatly in place.
What We Like
- Heavy-duty frame
- Has pull-up grips
- High weight load
What We Don't Like
- Only includes 2 handles
- Might not be tall enough for some
BUY: REP Fitness FT-5000
Best Compact Cable Machine - Tonal
SPECS
- Max weight: 200 lbs.
- Material: N/A
- Height: 50.9"
It's also a smart trainer so you can follow along with thousands of instructor-led on-demand and live workouts and track your stats, including reps, sets, time under tension, and power. You do have to pay a monthly membership fee to access these features, but you'll get personalized programs and automatic weight suggestions based on your performance and progress. The Tonal doesn't come with additional accessories, but you can add an accessory bundle that includes a smart handle, a smart bar, a rope, a bench, a roller, and a workout mat for floor work.
What We Like
- Guided workouts
- Minimal footprint
- Can track and monitor progress
What We Don't Like
- Maximum weight is lower than other cable machines
- Have to pay a monthly membership fee
BUY: Tonal
Read our full Tonal review.
Best Attachable Cable Machine - Rogue CT-1 Cable Tower
SPECS
- Max weight: 250 lbs.
- Material: 11-gauge steel
- Height: 107.5"
The Rogue CT-1 Cable Tower is made of 11-gauge steel and assembled at Rogue's own factory. It ships fully assembled at no extra cost to you, so once it arrives, all you have to do is put it where you want it, bolt it to the floor, and get to work.
What We Like
- 180-degree rotating pulley
- Total load of 250 lbs.
- Ships fully assembled
What We Don't Like
- Doesn't include handle attachment
- No pull-up grips
Best Premium Cable Machine - FORCE USA G20 All-In-One Trainer
SPECS
- Max weight: 578 lbs.
- Material: Steel
- Height: 91"
Up to three people can use this cable machine at one time, and it has a walkthrough design that makes it easier to change the weight plates, or for a spotter to position themselves to assist with heavier lifts. If you want to upgrade the setup, you can add a lat row station that adds another 289-pound weight stack and a dip bar station. It also includes three pull-up bars—one front-mounted multi-grip bar and two side-mounted wide-grip bars—and 10-weight plate storage sleeves.
What We Like
- 51 adjustment points
- Comes with 29 attachments
- Can accommodate 3 users at once
What We Don't Like
- Lowest weight setting is 19 lbs.
- Very large footprint
BUY: FORCE USA G20 All-In-One Trainer
Best Cable Machine for Home Gym - XMARK Functional Trainer Cable Machine
SPECS
- Max weight: 400 lbs.
- Material: Alloy steel
- Height: 83.5"
CHECK PRICEThe XMARK Functional Trainer Machine is pricey, but if you want a state-of-the-art cable machine that's built to last, it's well worth the investment. This cable machine has a heavy-duty steel construction and a commercial-grade pulley system that can withstand regular use. There are two weight stacks that go up to 200 pounds each, and the individual plates weigh 10 pounds to accommodate people of all fitness levels. The pulleys have 19 settings and are easy to adjust with the pull knobs.
The cable machine has a split-grip pull-up bar on the front of the frame and comes with an accessories bundle that includes two 8-inch hand straps, two 17-inch strap handles, a 23-inch triceps rope, a short bar, a 42-inch long bar, a leg extension, curl strap, and an ankle strap. Plus there are hooks on the main frame that allow you to neatly organize the accessories so you can keep track of them between sets.
What We Like
- Easy to adjust
- Has a split-grip pull-up bar
- Comes with an accessories bundle
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Large footprint
BUY: XMARK Functional Trainer Cable Machine
Best Budget Cable Machine - Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym
SPECS
- Max weight: 210 lbs.
- Material: Steel
- Height: 83.25"
This cable machine comes standard with a 210-pound maximum weight, but you can upgrade to 310 or 410 pounds if you need a higher weight capacity. It includes a squat bar and an ab crunch shoulder harness, but you can also add a triceps rope, a lumbar pad, and a preacher curl bar. In addition to its budget-friendly price, it has a compact design that makes it easier to fit in your home gym.
What We Like
- Compact design
- No-change cable pulley system
- Budget-friendly price
What We Don't Like
- Lower maximum weight than others
- Some users report a difficult assembly
BUY: Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym
Best Cable Machine for Beginners - Valor Fitness BD-62 Wall Mount Cable Station
SPECS
- Max weight: 200 lbs.
- Material: Steel
- Height: 80"
CHECK PRICEAdvanced cable machines can feel intimidating to beginners, but the Valor Fitness BD-62 Wall Mount is an excellent entry-level model that makes it easy to start functional fitness training. It has a maximum weight load of 200 pounds and 16 adjustment positions that allow you to perform bilateral and unilateral movements.
Instead of bolting it to the floor, you attach this cable machine to the wall and add your own weights to it. It holds standard size or Olympic weights and operates on a 1:1 ratio so it's more self-explanatory than a 2:1 system. It comes with two single-strap handles that can be adjusted to five different positions. If you want more versatility, you can add an attachment bundle that includes a V-shaped handle, triangle chest pull, and triceps pull-down rope.
What We Like
- Lightweight and compact
- 1:1 ratio makes it easier for beginners
- 16 adjustment positions
What We Don't Like
- Have to add your own weights
- Handles only have five adjustment positions
BUY: Valor Fitness BD-62 Wall Mount Cable Station
Best Cable Cross-over Machine - FreeMotion Dual Cable EXT Crossover
SPECS
- Max weight: 420 lbs.
- Material: Steel
- Height: 84"
There are two weight stacks that max out at 210 pounds each for a total weight load of 420 pounds. And since the stacks operate independently, the cable machine can accommodate two users at the same time. It comes with standard hand straps, as well as padded ankle cuffs that allow you to perform lower-body exercises.
What We Like
- Large range of motion
- Independent weight stacks to accommodate two users
- Comes with ankle cuffs
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Very large footprint
How We Picked the Best Cable Machines
Below are the factors we kept in mind when researching the best cable machines.
Durability
When it comes to home gym equipment, durability is key. We selected products that can withstand years of use.
Price
We understand that most people don’t want to spend a fortune on a cable machine. That’s why we took into account machines that are reasonably priced and included options for all kinds of budgets.
Adjustments
One of the best features of a cable machine is the ability to adjust it based on your desired exercise. We prioritized cable machines that offer plenty of adjustabilities.
Footprint
While a cable machine is a worthwhile investment in your home gym, we know most people will also need room for other equipment or machines. That’s why we made sure the products on our list are relatively compact so those limited in space have options.
Benefits of Cable Machines
Cable machines can take up a lot of space in your home gym, but there are several benefits that make it worth it.
Versatility
Cable machines are extremely versatile. For example, the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym allows you to work through more than 70 different exercises, while the FORCE USA G20 All-In-One Trainer can accommodate more than 400. This allows you to work all of your major muscle groups on one machine, eliminating the need for other resistance training equipment.
Muscle Isolation
When you use a cable machine, your muscles are under constant tension—both on the way up and on the way down. Controlling the movement through this tension is a great way to isolate specific muscles and build strength that you may not get from other types of resistance training.
More Range of Motion
One of the biggest differences between free weights and cable machines is the range of motion. While free weights are fairly limited, cable machines allow you to work your muscles from all angles. And since you're standing and not tied to a machine, your movements aren't restricted so you can mimic real-life motion for more functional training.
What to Look for in a Cable Machine
When shopping for a cable machine, you'll want to consider the maximum weight capacity, material, and height to make the best choice for you.
Weight
Cable machines max out at a certain amount of weight, usually between 100 and 600 pounds. When choosing one, decide how much weight you want to be able to lift and then choose your machine accordingly. Keep in mind that many cable machines have a 2:1 ratio, which means that a 10-pound weight is equivalent to a 5-pound resistance. In this case, a maximum weight capacity of 200 pounds feels more like 100 pounds.
Material
It's best to get a cable machine that has a steel frame, which can withstand heavy, regular use. This will ensure that your investment lasts a while, especially if you plan to use the machine as your main piece of workout equipment. You also want to consider the material of the straps and whether or not they have padded handles that are easy to grip.
Height
Cable machines take up a considerable amount of space. When choosing one, measure the height and make sure there's enough overhead clearance to fit into your space. You also want to consider the height of the adjustment positions. Make sure there's enough range to accommodate your height and the exercises you want to do.
FAQs About Cable Machines
Are cable machines worth it?
Cable machines are versatile pieces of gym equipment that can replace several others. If you have the budget and the space for them, they're absolutely worth it.
Are cable machines better than weights?
Cable machines and weights are both excellent ways to get strength training in, however cable machines are better for functional training. Because cable machines provide constant tension both when you lift and lower the weights and allow for a greater range of motion, they can increase muscle gains while mimicking real-life movements.
What muscles do cable machines work?
Cable machines can work for many muscle groups, depending on which type of exercise you're doing. Many allow you to move through dozens (sometimes hundreds) of workouts that target all the major muscle groups in your upper and lower body in addition to your core.
Why do cable weights feel heavier?
Depending on the exercise you're doing, cable weights isolate muscles, which can make the weight feel heavier. Cable machines also provide constant tension, so your muscles are working non-stop and can become fatigued faster.
Summary of the Best Cable Machines
To recap, here’s our list of the best cable machines. With everything from budget-friendly options to machines designed for small spaces, there’s something on this list for every athlete.
- Best Overall Cable Machine: REP Fitness FT-5000
- Best Compact Cable Machine: Tonal
- Best Attachable Cable Machine: Rogue CT-1 Cable Tower
- Best Premium Cable Machine: FORCE USA G20 All-In-One Trainer
-
Best Cable Machine for Home Gym: XMARK Functional Trainer Cable Machine
- Best Budget Cable Machine: Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym
- Best Cable Machine for Beginners: Valor Fitness BD-62 Wall Mount Cable Station
- Best Cable Cross-over Machine: FreeMotion Dual Cable EXT Crossover
About the Author
Lindsay is a functional nutritionist, writer, and editor. She has written 15 books and numerous articles on fitness, wellness, and nutrition. Her work appears on Forbes.com, CNET.com, Healthline.com, Garagegymreviews.com, CNN.com, mindbodygreen,com, and LIVESTRONG.com, among others.
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