The Best Weight Machines For Crushing Your Home Workouts in 2024

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If you’ve decided that a weight machine is the best choice for your home gym, and can’t choose the right one, you’ve come to the right place. Weight machines offer a versatile way to ditch the gym membership and get in a great workout at home, without the need for hundreds of pounds of dumbbells and barbells.

The biggest challenge for most people? Choosing the perfect machine. With so many options and different types of home gym machines to choose from, it can easily feel overwhelming.

In our guide, we’ll share our top picks for the best weight machines on the market in 2024, regardless of your training goals or budget. If you’ve found yourself confused and struggling to choose the perfect machine, our buyer’s guide is here for you.

Our Picks for the Best Weight Machines of 2024:

• Best Smart Gym Weight Machine: Tonal
• Best for Squatting Weight Machine: The DB Method
• Best Home Gym Weight Training Machine: Force USA G3 All-in-One Trainer
• Best Functional Training Weight Machine: REP Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer
• Best Weight Machine for Heavy Weights: Bowflex PR1000 Home Gym
• Best Full-Body Training Weight Machine: NordicTrack Fusion CST
• Best Portable Weight Machine: BodyBoss Portable Gym
• Best Smith Weight Machine: Titan Fitness Smith Machine
• Best for Bodyweight Weight Training System: TRX HOME2 System

Best Smart Gym Weight Machine: Tonal

Key Features:

• $3,495
• AI-driven system provides personal workouts, a variety of workout classes and trainers to choose from
• Designed to be an all-in-one training system
• You need to purchase the smart accessories package to get the most out of your Tonal, which costs an additional $495
• One year warranty for parts and labor

The Tonal is the most popular smart home gym machine on the market, and for good reason.

A large screen allows you to follow a wide variety of on-demand workouts led by trainers, and with adjustable resistance arms built-in to the machine, you’ll be able to train any body part with up to 200 pounds of total resistance.

If you often find yourself bored with your workouts, Tonal provides a near-endless option of workouts to choose from, with more added daily by their team of trainers.

Using the built-in AI sensors, it can track your performance and correct your form, mimicking the work of a personal trainer. It is small enough to fit in most household spaces if there is a free wall for mounting.

Cable workouts are a fantastic, low-impact way to train your body, and Tonal’s built-in resistance arms provide smooth resistance. It’s not the cheapest machine, but it’s incredibly versatile and will be the last machine you ever need.

Pros:

• AI-driven classes
• Adjustable training arms
• Built-in form correction and workout instruction as you train
• A variety of instructors with classes for all fitness levels

Cons:

• It needs to be professionally installed and mounted to a sturdy wall
• Expensive compared to other brands
• The classes require a $49/month subscription

Best for Squatting Weight Machine: The DB Method

Key Features:

• $329
• Lightweight, low-impact squat workout that targets the glutes
• You can purchase optional accessories, but they aren’t necessary
• One-year limited Warranty

If you’re looking for a squat machine that can be easily used from the comfort of your home, the DB Method is perfect for you.

Unlike larger, heavier machines, the DB method is a compact, lightweight machine that easily folds for storage between uses. It provides a low-impact, yet highly effective workout that focuses on your glutes, quads and hamstrings.

While you can’t use this for a full body workout as the machine is primarily designed for squats, it’s a fantastic tool for anyone looking to shape their lower body. At $329, it’s affordable for most home gyms.

Pros:

• Low-impact and smooth movements for a comfortable workout
• Easy to store between uses
• Great for working on the glutes and legs

Cons:

• It doesn’t train your upper body
• The resistance is fixed, and can’t be adjusted

Best Home Gym Weight Training Machine: Force USA G3 All-in-One Trainer

Key Features:

• $1,999.99
• An all-in-one machine includes 12 strength training stations
• Some accessories like weights, bench and barbells are sold separately
• Lifetime structural warranty, 10 years on moving parts and one year on upholstery and attachments

If you’re tired of spending time driving to the gym and then waiting your turn to use a piece of equipment, check out the G3 All-in-one Trainer from Force USA. The G3 is our pick for the best home gym weight training machine because it allows you to knock out 75 exercises with this one piece of equipment. The G3 combines a power rack, functional trainer, Smith machine, chin-up station, suspension trainer and core trainer. We like that this weight training machine helps bring versatility to your home workout allowing you to do circuit training, supersets, full-body training or WOD variations. We also think this multi-use piece of equipment is a convenient way to save space in your home gym.

The G3 comes with 14 attachments including j-hooks, safety spotter arms, a multi-grip landmine hand, a small straight bar, a pulldown rope and more. However, other accessories like a leg press, weights, bench and barbell are sold separately or can be purchased through an upgrade kit for an additional $200 to $300 depending on the package.

Another feature we like about the G3 is that it can be paired with the Force USA Training App. The app gives you access to strength coaches, video tutorials and customizable training programs to help you reach your fitness goals. We think this is a great way to take your home workouts to the next level.

Pros:

• AIll-in-one weight machine allows you to tackle a variety of workouts from the comfort and privacy of your home gym
• Can be paired with Force USA Training App for training tips, programs and expert advice
• Combines 12 strength machines, making it a good choice for an entry-level piece of home gym equipment

Cons:

• Several accessories, including weights, sold separately; so not the best choice for advanced lifters
• Needs at least 8’ 4”- tall ceilings to be able to use the machine
• G3 does not come assembled and some reviews on the Force USA website say it time-consuming to install

Best Functional Training Weight Machine: REP Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer

Key Features:

• $2,499
• Versatile, heavy-duty cable machine that allows you to train any body part efficiently
• Includes cable handles, but you could add your own attachments as well (rope handles, different grips, etc…)
• Lifetime warranty on the frame, one year warranty on cables and hardware

Serious strength trainees who want the best for their home gym will love the REP Fitness FT-5000 functional trainer, which rivals the quality of cable machines found in commercial gyms.

Each side can be adjusted to any height setting, and you can load up to 104.7 pounds per side. An included exercise placard demonstrates the correct form for a variety of movements, and you can easily find instructional videos for cable workouts.

As an added bonus, the machine includes multiple pull-up grips, so it allows you to get a great bodyweight workout as well, or use this machine to mount something like the TRX System.

This is heavy and takes up significant space, so it’s best for those with a dedicated home gym area.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty machine that’s similar to what you’d find in commercial gyms
• Built-in pull-up bar with multiple grips
• Up to 104.7 pounds of weight per side

Cons:

• Heavy, and can’t be easily moved after assembly
• Expensive

Best Weight Machine for Heavy Weights: Bowflex Revolution

Key Features:

• Price: $2,599
• Over 100 exercise options, including a leg press that can provide up to 600 pounds of resistance
• You can purchase 80 additional pounds of plates, a tricep rope and protective floor mat for an additional $200
• 10-year warranty

For those who want a machine that can provide some serious resistance, the Bowflex Revolution is one of the best machines on the market.

You can perform over 100 different types of exercises, and this Bowflex home gym machine even includes a leg press station that can provide up to 600 pounds of resistance with the optional 80-pound plate kit. That’s significantly more weight than most machines can provide.

Standalone leg press machines can take up significant space, so it’s nice to see a machine that already has a leg press included.

It’s not the smallest or cheapest machine, but if you want to work with some heavy weights, without having to purchase free weights, this is an excellent option.

Pros:

• Versatile, with a large variety of exercises
• Heavy resistance options, and the ability to add up to 80 additional pounds with extra plates
• Built-in leg extension, preacher curl, leg press and adjustable cable arms

Cons:

• It takes up a lot of floor space
• It’s expensive

Best Full-Body Training Weight Machine: NordicTrack Fusion CST

Key Features:

• Price: $1,999
• Included tablet to follow virtual workout classes, and six different cables to use, with 20 resistance options
• No additional accessories required
• 10-year warranty

If you want a smart machine that allows you to enjoy an endless variety of workouts with a virtual trainer, the NordicTrack Fusion CST is our top choice.

The included tablet allows you to train with your favorite iFit trainers, provided you have an active iFit membership, which starts at $39/month for a family plan, or $180/year for an individual plan.

Six cables at various heights allow you to train any muscle group, with 20 levels of digital resistance. The Fusion CST also includes a Bluetooth heart rate monitor chest strap, so you can see your body metrics in real time as you train.

This is a heavy, full-body workout machine, but with the included tablet and iFit membership, you’ll never run out of workout options.

Pros:

• Multiple cable heights with digital resistance settings
• A tablet for iFit classes is included, which is rare
• You can train any body part

Cons:

• At over 350 pounds, this machine is heavy and difficult to move

Best Portable Weight Machine: BodyBoss Portable Gym

Key Features:

• Price: $179
• Lightweight, portable, and easy to travel with
• You can purchase extra bands if you’d like more resistance
• One-year warranty

If you want something that’s lightweight, easy to move or travel with, and can easily be stored just about anywhere, the BodyBoss Portable Gym is an excellent choice.

The Portable Gym uses resistance bands, and the bands attach to a floor base that can easily fold and move around between uses. The entire gym weighs 15 pounds, so it’s easy to travel with if needed, and use on the road.

The BodyBoss Portable Gym allows you to adjust the bands to provide up to 80 pounds of resistance per band, and the base has been stress-tested to withstand up to 500 pounds of force.

Pros:

• Compact, portable gym system that includes a carrying bag
• Very affordable and durable
• Includes visual instruction manual

Cons:

• The gym uses only band resistance, so if you prefer the feeling of using weights or machines, you’ll need to choose something else

Best Smith Weight Machine: Titan Fitness Smith Machine

Key Features:

• Price: $1,478
• Heavy-duty Smith machine with plenty of storage for plates
• Accessories: You’ll need to supply your own weights
• Warranty: None

If you’ve got a dedicated home gym space and enjoy training with barbells, the Titan Fitness Smith Machine is one of the best pieces of home gym equipment you can buy.

A Smith machine simulates barbell training, but unlike a standalone barbell, the Smith machine bar moves on a fixed track. If you’re training alone, you don’t have to worry about getting stuck under a weight, or dropping the bar, you can simply lock the bar into the track.

Whether you’re performing squats, deadlifts, rows or any other type of barbell movement (aside from Olympic lifting), this Smith machine will help you stay safe and healthy.

If you’re an Olympic lifter, you won’t be able to train with a Smith machine, as the barbell needs to move freely. For anyone else, this is a great alternative to a regular barbell.

The only downside? You’ll need to add weight plates on each end of the Smith machine to add weight, and the cost of weight plates can vary based on how much weight you need.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty, commercial gym grade Smith machine
• Safe barbell training without a spotter
• Built-in storage for weight plates

Cons:

• You need to buy weight plates separately, which can be expensive
• No warranty

Best for Bodyweight Weight Training System: TRX HOME2 System

Key Features:

• Price: $229.95
• Versatile, lightweight suspension trainer that unlocks the full potential of bodyweight training
• Accessories: Includes everything you need
• Two year warranty

If you enjoy bodyweight training, the TRX HOME2 System is a must-have.

Using a suspension trainer allows you to freely use your own body as resistance for nearly any type of movement. Chest presses, rows, mobility work, core work… it's unlikely that you’ll run out of exercises to do with a TRX.

Because it folds up into a small bag, you can easily travel with it and attach it to sturdy support structures anywhere you go.

You’ll need to find a sturdy place to mount the system, as it will be supporting your entire bodyweight. The TRX HOME2 System includes a door anchor for those who don’t have any other secure attachment options in their home.

Pros:

• Secure suspension trainer built to last
• Includes door anchor so you can use it anywhere
• Easily stored in a small bag

Cons:

• You need a sturdy door frame to attach this to
• If you travel with it, it can be difficult to find a secure anchor to set it up

How To Choose The Best Weight Machine for Your Home Gym

Footprint

One of the most important factors, if not the single most important factor, is how much available space you have for your home gym.

If you live in a small space, you probably don’t want to purchase a large, heavy machine that’s going to take up your entire living room—a smaller option would be better for you. Many home gym machines allow you to perform a wide variety of movements, replacing the need for multiple machines.

Of course, some of you may have dedicated home gyms, and plenty of space, allowing you to choose anything. However, if you’re tight on space, pay close attention to the dimensions of the machines before making any decisions.

Training frequency

How often will you be training, and what sort of workouts are you doing?

If you’re training at home every day, you’ll likely want to pick up a machine that has multiple functions, allows you to use a wide variety of movements, and can work every body part.

When you use your home gym as a supplement to workouts in a gym or a fitness class, then you may be fine with a smaller machine that doesn’t have quite as many features.

Price

Of course, the cost is important, and you need to choose something within your budget. Any exercise is better than none, so don’t feel bad if you can’t afford the most expensive home gym on our list.

If you don’t want to wait any longer to save more money, simply get what you can afford, and you’ll still be able to enjoy a great workout with anything on our list.

Accessories

In relation to the price, consider whether your home weight machine needs any additional accessories. For example, with a TRX trainer, you may need to purchase additional equipment to securely mount it, which is something many overlook.

Warranty

With proper care, your machine should last for years. But still, take a close look at the warranty. Some companies offer long, comprehensive warranties, while others offer shorter warranties that won’t cover quite as much.

If you think you’ll have this machine long enough to need repairs, and/or regular maintenance, be sure to choose a good warranty.

Training goals

Finally, what are your primary fitness goals?

If you’re looking to build athleticism or lose some weight, you don’t need anything fancy or heavy. However, if your main goal is building strength and muscle, you may find yourself limited by bodyweight systems, and you’ll need to choose a machine that allows you to add weight as you progressively get stronger over time.

If your primary goals are cardio, you may want to choose something like a treadmill, rower or elliptical. If you’re looking to build strength, you’ll want to stick with one of the weight machines on our list.

How We Chose the Best Weight Machines for Home

When assembling this list, we looked at a variety of factors. Size, cost and training goals were the main factors, as there’s no one-size-fits-all recommendation that’s best for every individual.

That said, we do recommend all of the products on our list, so you can’t go wrong with anything you choose.

FAQs

Are weight machines or free weights better for home?

Both can work very well, so you have to consider your goals and preferences. If you’re used to training with free weights, or you’re competing in a weightlifting sport and need to train with barbells, you’ll want to stick with free weights.

For everyone else, weight machines can work just as well, especially if you’re not comfortable training with free weights. With either option, you’ll be able to get in a great workout that pushes your body to grow stronger.

Will weight machines burn fat?

Generally speaking, when you’re exercising at a moderate or higher intensity, the primary nutrient you’re burning is carbohydrates, in the form of glycogen. You may burn a little fat, but it’s not the primary fuel source.

That said, fat loss comes from simply eating fewer calories than you burn each day, and weight machines certainly help you burn more calories in a day, and can speed up your weight loss efforts.

Related Post: The Best Workout Machines for Weight Loss 

Can you build muscle with weight machines?

Absolutely! As long as you’re eating adequate protein, pushing yourself to get stronger and using more resistance over time, you’ll be able to build muscle with weight machines.

Any type of resistance training can build muscle, whether you’re using your bodyweight, bands, cables or free weights.

How often should you use free weights?

Unless you’re a competitive powerlifter or weightlifter, and you compete using free weights, you never need to use free weights to get stronger and build muscle tissue.

Any type of training that allows you to progressively increase the resistance levels over time will allow you to get an effective workout. Both free weights and weight machines are excellent choices to focus on your strength training, and you can get excellent results even if you never use free weights.

Final Thoughts

Weight machines are a fantastic addition to your home gym for anyone looking to get stronger and build muscle. There are a lot of options on the market, but this list should provide the perfect choice for anyone, no matter your training goals, budget or preferences.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.