Cable machines can take a basic home gym to the next level. A cable machine is a piece of equipment that features a set of adjustable pulleys — this adjustability allows you to perform multiple exercises at various angles. This unit offers a high degree of versatility, allowing you to isolate your muscles while performing upper and lower body movements. These machines also allow you to keep your muscles under constant tension — something even the best dumbbells can’t do.
Like every equipment purchase, you want to find a cable machine that’s best for your fitness level and exercise goals. After testing about 10 different products, we’ve narrowed down the best cable machines on the market to suit your training needs and fitness goals.
Best Cable Machines of 2024
- Best Cable Machine Overall: REP Fitness FT-5000
- Best Functional Trainer Cable Machine: Titan Fitness Functional Trainer
- Best Budget Cable Machine: Bells of Steel Plate Loaded Cable Tower 2.0
- Best Cable Machine Power Rack: Force USA G12
- Most Versatile Cable Machine: REP Fitness Ares Builder
- Best Portable Cable Machine: Beyond Power Voltra I
- Best Cable Machine for Small Spaces: NordicTrack Fusion CST Studio
- Best Smart Cable Machine: Tonal
How We Tested and Chose the Best Cable Machines
No matter if you’re an avid gym goer or a beginner wanting to fully immerse yourself in the fitness scene, a cable machine can be extremely beneficial to your progress. Our team tested about 10 different cable machines to build this list. This is the criteria we considered:
Durability
Like any gym product, you are going to want something that is sturdy and durable. All of the picks on this list check that box and offer the support you need to feel safe. We curated this list with products made of high-quality steel and durable components that could potentially last more than a decade. Our products also feature enough weight to where they shouldn’t topple over in use.
“Cable machines have a lot of components; the more components and parts something has, there are increased odds of things breaking,” explains Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC. “That said, cable machines are generally built durable and meant to last forever.”
Versatility
The beauty of these machines is that they can support multiple movements, which is a game-changer for home gyms. While not every product on this list has the necessary attachments included with their purchase, you at least have the option to add those to expand your workouts even further and create a very versatile piece of equipment. We looked at the number of exercises each machine supports to offer as much versatility as possible for plenty of full-body workouts.
Special Features
Not all cable machines are created equal. Some come with multiple accessories and special features that enable you to make your workouts even more versatile or functional. Some have power rack attachments, built-in Smith Machines, or pull-up bars. These generally cost more, though, so we combed through tricked-out cable machines and simple units to offer a wide range.
Assembly
Whereas some weights, like dumbbells, require zero assembly, that’s not the case here. Assembling a cable machine is no simple task. Some of these units can be hundreds of pounds, so they usually arrive in parts. For the heavier, more complicated machines, we chose companies that offer set-up alongside delivery services.
Price
While none of these products are necessarily cheap, any home gym equipment is an investment that should eventually pay for itself. You can find a cable machine for as little as $300 to $400, but these might not last you very long, and you’ll be stuck looking for a new one after a few years. “One downside is that cable machines are expensive,” says Capritto. “But again, you’re investing in something that should last you forever.”
Best Cable Machine Overall: REP Fitness FT-5000
For an overall top-notch cable machine, you want the REP Fitness FT-5000. This machine is compatible with plenty of accessories and holds 448 pounds of resistance.
Specs
- Dimensions: 85.5”H x 58”W x 36”D
- Accessories: Multi-grip pull-up bar, two D-handles, storage pegs, four 2.75-lb increment weights, cable exercise diagram
- Warranty: Lifetime on frame, one year on pulleys and cables
- Resistance: 448lbs total
- Price: $2,499.99
Pros
- This commercial gym-grade machine has two cable systems with dual weight stacks that weigh 224 pounds each.
- There are 21 cable pulley positions, so you can do a variety of exercises.
- It has a multi-grip pull-up bar built in.
Cons
- You can find cheaper fitness equipment on this list.
- This only comes with two D-handles, no additional attachments.
- The unit is 875 pounds, so you need to take it apart in order to move the machine.
The REP Fitness FT-5000 is a gym-quality cable machine that you can set up right in your home. The weight stacks go up to 224 pounds each, which is plenty for most athletes. Plus, it has 21 cable positions and a built-in pull-up bar. For these factors, and more, we gave our overall experience with the FT-5000 a 5 out of 5.
Where this machine really stands out is the feel of the cables. “These cables are smooth when you pull on the handles,” our tester said, giving this factor a 5 out of 5. “There are no sticking points that I noticed.” The machine has a 2:1 ratio, meaning that moving 100 pounds feels like 50 pounds, which is good to keep in mind as you lift.
For durability, our team gave the FT-5000 a 4.5 out of 5. The frame is built with 11-gauge steel and has a corrosion- and chip-resistant powder coating, so you don’t have to worry about the painting coming off after a few years. We also like that this machine doesn’t need to be bolted to the ground for stability, making assembly easier.
We did have to give the overall assembly process a 3 out of 5, though. Though the REP website says that two people can put this together in roughly two hours, it took our testers (who have put together plenty of workout machines) around four hours total.
For accessories, this one offers the basics, earning a 3.5 out of 5 in that category. You get two D-handles, storage pegs, four 2.75-pound incremental weights, and a mountable diagram with exercises.
This machine may seem pretty pricey at $2,499.99 but it’s actually relatively standard for a machine of this size and caliber. We gave it a 3.75 out of 5 for value because you can find cheaper options but it’s also not the most expensive. We do wish, however, that it came with some more attachments, given the price point.
[Related: REP Fitness PR-5000 Power Rack Review]
Best Functional Trainer Cable Machine: Titan Fitness Functional Trainer
The Titan Fitness Functional Trainer is a well-built home gym that comes standard with accessories that other home gyms would sell as extras, like dual stirrup handles and a long bar.
Specs
- Dimensions: 82”H x 64”W x 44”D
- Accessories: Short bar, long bar, ankle strap, dual stirrup handles, tricep rope handles, single and double D-handles
- Warranty: One-year warranty
- Resistance: 400lbs total
- Price: $2,499.99
Pros
- This functional trainer allows for lat pulldowns and rows, and includes accessories for total-body exercises.
- It adjusts to more than 1,000 strength training positions.
- It has a multi-grip pull-up bar built in.
Cons
- Other cable machines do go higher in weight at the same price.
- You can find cheaper options on this list.
- Smaller pieces on this machine are aluminum, which isn’t as heavy duty as steel.
If you prioritize versatility and functional training for your home gym cable machine, look no further. The Titan Fitness Functional Trainer has endless exercise options and comes with a plethora of accessories, which can help you train your whole body or specific muscle groups. For accessories and versatility, we gave this machine a 5 out of 5.
This machine adjusts to more than 1,000 different training positions and it also has a multi-grip pull-up bar. You get plenty of accessories included with your Titan Fitness Functional Trainer, including a short bar, long bar, ankle strap, dual stirrup handles, rope handles, and single/double D-handles. “The frame is a little on the shorter side, though,” according to our tester. So, keep that in mind if you’re a taller athlete.
After our testers received this cable machine, they did need to lubricate the guide rods, though. But after that process was complete, they gave the cable smoothness a 4 out of 5 rating.
When it comes to durability, we gave this trainer a 4 out of 5. The majority of the frame is built with commercial-grade steel, so you don’t need to worry about any parts collapsing while you train. However, some of the small portions (like the pulleys) are aluminum. This is still a sturdy metal but not quite as durable as steel.
For overall value, we think the Titan Fitness Functional Trainer earns a 4 out of 5. It’s not the cheapest machine on the market but you do get plenty of included attachments, which others don’t offer at a similar price point. However, the REP FT-5000 does have more weight at this same price (but fewer accessories), so athletes who prioritize load over versatility may prefer that pick.
Best Budget Cable Machine: Bells of Steel Plate Loaded Cable Tower 2.0
The Bells of Steel Plate-Loaded Cable Tower 2.o is a great budget-friendly cable machine. This one is compatible with plenty of attachments and you can load your own plates for customized resistance.
Specs
- Dimensions: 81.2”H x 28.5”W x 28”D
- Accessories: Two handles, 2-to-1 adapter
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
- Resistance: 250lbs total
- Price: $349.99
Pros
- At only $349.99, this is among the most budget-friendly cable machines on the market.
- This machine is pretty space-friendly, too, at about half the size of other machines.
- It has 33 height settings.
Cons
- Nearly all accessories are sold separately.
- You need to buy the weight plates separately.
- It can only support up to 250 pounds total.
Cable machines can be pretty pricey. But for athletes shopping on a budget, you don’t have to totally discount this piece of gym equipment. This Bells of Steel Plate Loaded Cable Tower 2.0 only costs $349.99, making it among the most budget-friendly cable machines. For overall value, we gave this pick a 4.5 out of 5.
We also like that this machine is totally space-friendly, making an easy fit in your garage gym. It only takes up a few feet of floor space and the assembled weight is only about 85 pounds (without plates). So, for footprint and portability, our testers gave this one a 5 out of 5.
When it comes to included accessories, this machine is pretty minimal. You get two handles and a 2-to-1 adapter to shift the weight onto a single cable. However, this one is pretty versatile, earning a 3.75 out of 5 in that category. You can attach a dip bar, belt squat, lat pull-down bar, among others but they’re all sold separately.
One downside to this cable machine is that it doesn’t actually come with weight built into the machine. It’s a plate loaded cable machine, meaning you have to manually add weight plates to the side of the machine in order to create resistance. While this does allow for the cheaper price, some athletes may not love this extra step in the process. It also has a 250-pound max capacity, which may not be sufficient for some athletes.
Best Cable Machine Power Rack: Force USA G12
This robust home gym replaces eight pieces of equipment, including a power rack, Smith machine, cable pulley, and leg press. Considering how much you get, the price is fair, and the footprint is relatively minimal.
Specs
- Dimensions: 88”H x 78.5”W x 45.5”D
- Accessories: J-hooks, safety spotter arms, landmine, multigrip landmine handle, dual hook straight bar, lat pulldown bar, small straight bar, nylon stirrup handles, pulldown rope, leg press plate, lat pull-down knee holder, multigrip dip handles, olympic lock collars, olympic spring collars, extension chains, carabiners
- Warranty: Lifetime structural warranty
- Resistance: 400lbs included, 2,000lb capacity
- Price: $4499.99
Pros
- This machine has a power rack included for squats, bench presses, deadlifts, etc.
- There’s a Smith Machine station in this cable machine.
- You get a chin-up and dip station.
Cons
- This is one of the priciest cable machines on this list.
- You will need your own barbell for the power rack.
- You need to buy a bench separately.
When you’re building a home gym, multipurpose exercise machines are a must-have — after all, they save space and money. Instead of buying a separate cable machine and power rack, combine the two with Force USA’s G12. This all-in-one cable machine has the abilities of a power rack and so much more.
“Take the Force USA G12. A cable machine? Sure, yes,” says Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC. “But it is also a Smith Machine, half squat rack, multi-grip pull-up bar, leg press machine, weight plate storage apparatus, and more, if you want it to be.” Considering the endless attachment and accessory possibilities, this one gets a 5 out of 5 for versatility.
Not only does it come with J-hooks for your barbell, it also has spotter arms, a landmine, multiple cable attachments, dip handles, and more — and these are all included with your purchase! The machine has about 400 pounds in weight stacks included but you can load your own plates, too, allowing for a max 2,000-pound capacity. That’s plenty for most athletes.
Considering this machine comes with so many individual pieces, we recommend hiring a professional to help set it up. This machine is pretty heavy (992 pounds) and space-consuming, too, so we had to give the footprint and portability a 2 out of 5. This machine is pretty tall, too, our testers noted, so be sure to compare your home measurements with the equipment specs.
Before you buy, keep in mind that you will need to have your own barbell and bench. This machine doesn’t come with either of those accessories and they’re necessary if you want to bench press or squat.
For overall value, we gave the G12 a 3.75 out of 5. Our team was a big fan of all the versatility and cable attachments that you get with this machine but it’s hard to overlook the $4,499.99 price tag. Chances are, this cable machine doesn’t fit in everyone’s budget and there are definitely more price-friendly options on this list. But if you can swing the cost, we definitely recommend giving the G12 a try.
Most Versatile Cable Machine: REP Fitness Ares Builder
The REP Fitness Ares Builder is fully customizable and attaches to your REP Fitness power rack. You can upgrade this option as much as you'd like and it has 520 pounds of resistance included.
Specs
- Dimensions: Varies by build
- Accessories: Footplate, four micro-adjustment 2.5lbs plates, D handles, knurled chrome lat pull-down bar, low row bar, connector banana
- Warranty: Lifetime on frame, one year on pulleys and cables
- Resistance: 520lbs included, 620lbs with upgrade
- Price: $2799.99
Pros
- You can customize this cable machine to suit all your versatile exercise needs.
- It has dual 260-pound weight stacks included, which is more than most others.
- You get a few must-have attachments included.
Cons
- Some athletes may not need so much customization with a cable machine.
- Depending on which attachments you add, the price goes up.
- You need to buy benches and barbells separately.
Some athletes have specific exercise needs and a standard cable machine just won’t cut it. For those who prefer a versatile option, the REP Fitness Ares Builder allows you to customize your machine to get exactly what you want. For versatility, we gave this machine a 5 out of 5.
When it comes to accessories, the REP Ares Builder comes with all the basics, including a footplate, four micro-adjustment plates, D handles, a knurled lat pull-down bar, a low row bar, and a banana to connect weight stacks. But during customization, you can add even more, including a power rack, weight storage, and more.
For footprint and portability, we had to give this machine a 3 out of 5. It weighs about 965 pounds, so it’s definitely not going anywhere once it’s set up. But we do love the 450-pound weight capacity of the cables and trolleys — that’s plenty to build muscle and strength.
The one caveat is that the REP Ares cable crossover machine attaches to the REP Fitness PR-4000 and PR-5000 racks. We love these racks and think they’re definitely worth considering. This enables you to minimize the need to have multiple pieces of large equipment in your home gym. However, if you already have a power rack, you may want to consider another cable machine.
[Related: Best Squat Racks for Beginners, Powerlifting, Small Spaces, and More]
Best Portable Cable Machine: Beyond Power Voltra I
The Beyond Power is one of the smallest, most portable cable machines you'll find on the market. This device is compatible with the Beyond+ app so you can stream workouts or track your progress.
Specs
- Dimensions: Handheld
- Accessories: Varies by package
- Warranty: One-year warranty
- Resistance: 200lbs
- Price: Starting at $2,099
Pros
- This cable machine system is so small, it can fit in your gym bag and it’s air travel-friendly.
- It can mount on just about any rack in your gym.
- This machine pairs with the Beyond+ app where you can track your workouts and progress.
Cons
- This device only goes up to 200 pounds of resistance.
- Most of the attachments are sold in bundles with the Voltra.
- This device is pretty pricey and is really only ideal for tech-loving athletes.
Some athletes may not have the space for a full cable machine or simply want a portable option they can take on-the-go. The Beyond Power Voltra I has definitely revolutionized this space, creating an ultra-portable cable machine.
When it comes to portability and footprint, the Voltra gets a 5 out of 5. This device is small enough to fit in your gym bag and attaches to any sturdy power rack or bannister. Then, you turn it on and the machine adds your desired resistance to the built-in cable.
For customization and versatility, we gave the Voltra a 4 out of 5. The device connects to the Beyond+ app where you can choose from different workouts or track your progress. Plus, depending on the bundle you choose, this device comes with attachments like handles, a straight bar, a travel platform, or a sliding rack mount. However, the bundles vary by cost.
On the Voltra, you can choose from different resistance types, including eccentric and concentric resistance, which a standard cable machine can’t do. However, the max resistance of the machine is only 200 pounds. Standard cable machines typically have around 200 pounds per stack but usually have two stacks per machine, totaling somewhere around 400 pounds. For most athletes, though, the Voltra has plenty of resistance.
For overall value, we gave this device a 3.5 out of 5. It starts at $2,099, which is pretty pricey, especially considering you need to buy attachments separately. Also, for this price, there are plenty of standard cable machines that offer way more weight. So, if you’re an athlete whose goal is strength gain, you may prefer a machine that has plenty of weight for progressive overload. But if portable workout equipment is a must, this is the smallest cable machine you’ll find.
[Related: The 7 Best Portable Home Gyms of 2024]
Best Cable Machine for Small Spaces: NordicTrack Fusion CST Studio
This machine is an elite, quiet, smooth, and modern version of a home gym that’s packed with tech to enhance your home workout experience. It features a modest footprint for space-savings and hands-free weight adjustments with seemingly endless class options and daily workout suggestions.
Specs
- Dimensions: 70”L x 15”W full-length mirror
- Accessories: 30-day iFIT trial included, six handles, two squat pulleys, two ankle straps, independent travel cable
- Warranty: 10 years on frame, one year on parts and labor, one year on tablet
- Resistance: 100lbs
- Price: $1799
Pros
- This mirror-sized cable machine has a space-saving compact design.
- The Fusion CST is compatible with iFIT and your trainer can remote tweak your workouts.
- There are 20 different resistance levels on this machine.
Cons
- This device only goes up to 100 pounds of resistance.
- After the first month, you need to pay $39/month for iFIT.
- This isn’t compatible with any attachments.
For those who are limited on space, it can be a real pain to find the right equipment for your home gym. Luckily this well-designed machine only has a footprint of about six feet by three and a half feet, which makes it a great pick even for apartment dwellers. For footprint, the NordicTrack Fusion CST Studio definitely earns a 5 out of 5.
The NordicTrack Fusion CST Studio stands upright with a user-centric mirror design that allows you to work out between the two support legs, so you need even less room than many other machines. The modest footprint takes up only 60.5 inches in width and 41.5 in depth with a height of 73.5 inches, making this machine optimal for those with limited real estate to work with.
This machine has 20 levels of magnetic resistance, going up to 100 pounds total. Compared to other cable machines, 100 pounds of resistance is actually pretty low. However, for beginners, this is likely plenty to start with.
This machine comes with a month-long free iFIT membership (it’s $39 per month after the trial), which you won’t find with most other cable machines. This app gives you access to tons of workouts (cardio, yoga, Pilates, and more, included) and your iFIT trainers can even remotely adjust the resistance on your machine. Our team is full of iFIT fans, so we had to give this machine a 5 out of 5 for dynamic programming.
The NordicTrack Fusion CST is one of the more budget-friendly picks on this list at $1,799. But it’s still an investment. We gave the overall value a 3.75 out of 5, considering the max resistance is significantly lower than our other options. This may not be ideal for more experienced athletes. However, if you’re short on space and love to follow trainer-lead workouts, the Fusion CST is a good fit.
Best Smart Cable Machine: Tonal
The Tonal is an interactive home gym that delivers up to 200 lbs of total electromagnetic resistance with the use of two maneuverable pulleys. What's most impressive is that it adapts as you progresses, which means you'll always be pushing closer to your fitness goals.
Specs
- Dimensions: 50.9”H x 21.50” x 5.25”D
- Accessories: Smart handles
- Warranty: Two-year limited warranty
- Resistance: 200lbs
- Price: $3995
Pros
- This smart cable machine mounts on the wall like a mirror, allowing you to digitally stream workouts.
- The machine creates resistance without needing weight plates or stacks.
- There’s a whole library of workout programs you can try for your whole body.
Cons
- It only has 200 total pounds of resistance.
- All of the accessories are sold separately in a bundle.
- Some athletes may not need all the bells and whistles for the high price tag.
High-tech gym machines have definitely revolutionized the world of at-home training. Especially for beginners, a smart cable machine can help introduce you to exercise with plenty of guidance. If you fall into that category (or just love techy gym equipment), Tonal is the right choice. When it comes to overall experience, this one earned a 5 out of 5.
“I really liked using Tonal,” according to our tester. “I especially love it for heavier exercises (like deadlifts) because I don’t have to deal with gym setup. It’s also so simple to move from one exercise to the next.”
Unfortunately, for durability, we had to give this machine a 3 out of 5. “I personally haven’t experienced any issues but the online reviews have a lot to say about pieces breaking but having no assistance because it’s not within the warranty,” our tester said. Considering it’s a smart cable machine, it probably can’t withstand as much wear and tear as a steel unit.
But when it comes to assembly, Tonal is way easier than a standard cable machine. The company sends out installers and it only takes about 20 minutes, according to our tester. All you have to do is make sure you have studs in your walls that align with Tonal’s specifications.
For overall value, we gave this machine a 3.5 out of 5. It’s among the most expensive cable machines on this list ($3,995) but isn’t quite as durable as more traditional options. Plus, you only get 200 pounds of resistance, which may not be sufficient for more experienced athletes. But if you’re someone who loves high-tech equipment and wants a smart home gym, the Tonal is a good fit.
Read our full Tonal Review.
The Benefits of Cable Machines
Cable machines can be extremely beneficial to your workout plan. Not only do they offer more variety than other machines — thanks to the multiple angles you are able to work within — but they also offer a safer alternative than holding heavy weight over your head. Here are a couple of the major benefits cable machines can offer.
Safe Lifting
Safety is key in every workout and cable machines might be the safest form of lifting you can find. Since you don’t need to put heavy weights over your head, you can always drop whatever attachment you are using without the fear of being crushed underneath it. This also allows you to train to failure.
For the machines on this list that act as a power rack, they even come equipped with spotter arms that you can customize to fit your needs. That way, if you are squatting and feel yourself not able to lift the weight, you can rest assured that the barbell isn’t going to come slamming into the floor.
Customizable Workouts
As we mentioned, versatility is key with any piece of equipment. With cable machines, you are truly free to lift as you please. “Cable machines are resistance training machines, so they bring all the benefits of strength training,” says Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC. “Cable machines also open up the opportunity for variable resistance training, which loads the muscles differently than fixed resistance training.”
Cables allow you to hit your muscles at different angles and even allow you to work on your lower body in ways you wouldn’t be able to elsewhere. For example, if you have an ankle strap then you are able to do lateral raises, kickbacks, and alternating step-ups. You have the luxury of doing bicep curls, front raises, lateral raises, triceps extensions, and, for the machines that feature smith machines and front racks, you can even squat or bench press.
How Much Do the Best Cable Machines Cost?
Unfortunately, cable machines aren’t usually the cheapest form of at-home gym equipment. Given their versatility, though, they may be worth the cost. Use the chart below to compare prices across different units.
| Best Cable Machine Overall | REP Fitness FT-5000 | $2,499.99 |
| Best Functional Trainer Cable Machine | Titan Fitness Functional Trainer | $2,499.99 |
| Best Budget Cable Machine | Bells of Steel Plate Loaded Cable Tower 2.0 | $349.99 |
| Best Cable Machine Power Rack | Force USA G12 | $4,499.99 |
| Most Versatile Cable Machine | REP Fitness Ares Builder | $2,799.99 |
| Best Portable Cable Machine | Beyond Power Voltra I | $2,099 |
| Best Cable Machine for Small Spaces | NordicTrack Fushion CST Studio | $1,799 |
| Best Smart Cable Machine | Tonal | $3,995 |
What to Consider Before Buying a Cable Machine
Before you go and spend your hard-earned money on a machine, it’s best you do your research, map out your available space and have a plan. You don’t want to add a machine that is going to dominate all of your space, and if you decide to purchase a cable machine that doesn’t function properly, you will be doing yourself a disservice. If you’re looking for a little advice before making such a big purchase, we’ve shared our thoughts below.
Size
While the size of these machines varies, and in turn will dictate where you can place them, and what exercises you can perform in your home gym, you need to be sure you can accommodate for the dimensions. While some wall-mounted machines can fit virtually anywhere, others are quite large and will dominate most of your available space. We suggest mapping things out and having a solid plan before deciding which product to purchase.
“Consider, too, if you think you’ll ever need to move the cable machine,” suggests Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC. “This can be a laborious and expensive task for larger models.”
Versatility
Nobody wants a machine that is limited in capabilities. When choosing a cable machine, it’s best to make sure that you will be able to really get a solid workout in, and that it is made of high-quality materials. That means targeting products that are made of high-grade steel (such as 11-gauge, which you will find in many professional gyms).
Your cable machine should also offer a certain level of versatility, such as having multiple angles, so you can work more than just your upper body. The products on this list are all, in our eyes, soundly made and offer the functionality needed to help you reach that next level on your fitness journey.
Price
Before making any purchase, you always need to weigh your options and see what you can afford in your budget. While some of these products come equipped with many attachments at your disposal, there are also a handful that require you to purchase necessary attachments separately. This can turn your purchase into a very expensive one if you are not careful. It is always best to set a budget for your machine and weigh what is included with your cable machine purchase before deciding which product to buy.
Final Word
Buying a cable machine can completely transform your home gym. These machines provide the ability to work your muscles differently than free weights and barbells, thanks to the constant tension created by the cables themselves. You can either choose a cable machine that will simply supplement what you already have in a power rack, or you can opt for a standalone product that can act as a full home gym.
Once you decide which type of cable machine you want to support your workout regimen, this list can help you find an option that will best suit your needs. Whether you want one that is interactive and comes with a ton of classes featuring personal trainers, or one that features a smith machine and front rack, we have a pick for you. Set your price point, measure your space, and let us do the rest of the heavy lifting for you.
FAQs
How much do cable machines cost?
Cable machines vary widely in price from around $300 to $500 for a high quality rack-attached cable pulley to $2,000 or even $5,000 for a more robust rack and cable machine combo sporting multiple, heavy stacks of weight.
What is the best cable machine?
The best cable machine will largely depend on personal needs and preferences, but right now our favorite is the Tonal Home Gym. It’s compact, high-tech, and offers a ton of versatility when it comes to the types of workouts it can accommodate.
What kind of exercises am I able to perform using a cable machine?
The beauty of cable machines is that they offer a lot of versatility. You can supplement your chest day with flyes at various angles, your arm workouts with bicep and tricep exercises, your back workouts with different variations of rear delt and lat exercises, and even your legs with kickbacks and lateral movements.
Are cable machines worth the money for a beginner?
If you are a beginner, cable machines are a good option to consider. You are able to perform a wide range of exercises, and minimize the risk of injury thanks to the ability to drop the weights without having to worry about anything landing on you. However, if you’re not committed to the idea of owning a cable machine this early in your journey, you may not want to make this big of an investment just yet.
What should I do if I don’t have enough space for a full cable machine?
If you run into a space issue, but want to add a set of cables to your gym, be sure to see if your existing products have any compatible cable systems that can be attached. If not, there are also smart home gyms that are often more compact and even mount to a wall to save space.
