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If you’re looking for a high-quality functional trainer that offers the best value for your home gym, you’ve come to the right place.
In recent years, especially post-COVID, there has been an increase in the demand for fitness equipment for home training and more so for multi-machines that include different attachments for full-body workouts.
A functional trainer is that kind of equipment! It is one of the most versatile and efficient workout equipment you can buy.
At a glance:
Best Smart
Tonal Functional Trainer
This smart fitness system provides up to 200 pounds of resistance
This all-in-one cable machine allows you to perform various exercises that work for multiple muscle groups simultaneously. The right functional trainer will save you space, time, and money while taking your home workouts to the next level.
In this post, I’ll explain what to look for when shopping for a functional trainer.
I’ve done extensive research and compiled reviews of the top 11 functional trainers on the market for 2023. I’ll cover critical factors like build quality, weight stacks, movement patterns, customizable options, and extra features.
Hopefully, by the end, you’ll know which functional trainer delivers the best bang for your buck. Let’s get started!
What is the best functional trainer?
1. Titan Fitness functional trainer – The best functional trainers to train effectively.
2. Prime fitness functional trainer – The premium functional trainer with limited unilateral exercise options.
3. Force USA G20 All-In-One Trainer – An excellent all-in-one choice offering many strength training systems and exercises.
4. REP FT-5000 functional trainer 2.0 – One of the best available trainers, which brings the best commercial practical trainer-grade cable strength training to your home gym.
5. Tonal – One of the best intelligent, functional trainers that take your workout to the next level.
6. V Trainer – Easy-to-use functional trainer for small places.
7. Inspire FT2 functional trainer – A great all-in-one Smith Machine & Functional Trainer.
8. Bellsofsteel functional trainer – A most versatile, with 16 cable heights.
9. Fusion CST Studio – The best functional trainer with interactive features.
10. Nemesis 300 LB Single stack functional trainer – Excellent space-saving functional trainer for your home gym.
11. Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer – Reputable and complete – pin and plate loaded – functional trainer.
1. Best Functional Trainer Overall: Titan Fitness functional trainer
The Titan Fitness functional trainer is the best trainer for effectively training multiple muscle groups.
This versatile cable machine includes many features like a pull-up bar, dip handles, high weight capacity, and a space-saving design. With dual Weight stacks up to 200 pounds each, the Titan allows for 400 pounds of resistance across over 20 exercises.
The included pull-up bar and dip handles provide additional options for a total body workout.
The Titan Fitness model is hard to beat for a high-quality functional trainer that includes everything you need at an affordable price.
Key Benefits
- Comprehensive pulley options include lat, row, and pulldown.
- Quick-adjust pull-pins for over 1,000 positions.
- Includes a short and long bar, ankle strap, dual stirrup handles, rope handles, and single and double D-handles.
- Multiple grip pull-up options
- 2:1 Split Weight babbling for increased cable travel
- Dual 200 LB fully enclosed weight stacks in 10 LB increments
- Red anodized aluminum pulleys
Specifications
Top reason to buy – Personal opinion
Titan Fitness Functional Trainer feels like an old friend.
Its classic design pulls inspiration from the commercial-grade equipment I’m accustomed to while still being scaled down for convenient in-home use.
My main selling point is the simplicity and familiarity that makes working out with this trainer seamless and practical. I love that I can intuitively adjust the pulleys and attachments to achieve different resistances and exercises without complicated instructions.
The durable construction also provides confidence that it can withstand regular home use. At the same time, the price tag exceeds basic home gym options, and the quality and user-friendly format warrant the splurge.
Titan Price: $2.599,99
- The simplicity and familiarity of Titan makes working out with this trainer seamless and practical.
2. Premium best functional trainer: Prime fitness functional trainer
With its commercial-grade cable system and a vast array of attachments, the Prime Fitness functional trainer offers unmatched versatility for unilateral and bilateral exercises.
This premium functional trainer features a dual 200-pound weight stack that provides up to 400 pounds of resistance across limitless exercise options.
Attachments like a leg curl/leg extension, lat tower, and built-in J-hooks allow you to perform cable crossovers, rows, crunches, and more. This space-saving functional trainer may be the perfect all-in-one strength training solution for your home gym when floor space is limited.
Key Benefits
- Dual weight stacks (265-pound) with a 2:1 ratio.
- Adjustable arm positions – 15 vertical and nine horizontal exercise arm adjustments = a nearly limitless number of unilateral exercise options.
- 5-pound add-on weight system for micro weight settings.
- Utilize all RO-T8 Family Accessories and KAZ Handles with this machine.
- Exercise instructional placard.
- Nearly limitless variety of exercise options
Specifications:
Top reason to buy – Personal opinion
The unmatched versatility of the PRIME Fitness Functional Trainer is a total game-changer.
With 15 vertical and nine horizontal arm positions, the exercise combinations seem endless. I love fully customizing my workout by micro-adjusting the angles and resistance down to the 5-pound increment.
Using all accessories and handles from PRIME’s RO-T8 line maximizes the potential exercise movements. While some home gym options quickly become mundane, this functional trainer allows you to keep challenging yourself in new ways every session.
The commercial-grade durability guarantees it can withstand years of regular use and reconfiguring. Though the price exceeds basic options, the unparalleled versatility and potential for progressive workouts warrant the investment.
Prime Price: $6.250
- Enjoy a variety of workouts by micro-adjusting the angles and resistance down to the 5-pound increment.
- Price exceeds basic options
3. Best versatile functional trainer: Force USA G20 All-In-One Trainer
The Force USA G20 is an excellent all-in-one choice that combines a power rack, Smith machine, and cable station into one versatile device.
As a rack-mounted functional trainer, the Force USA G20 lets you do squats, bench presses, and deadlifts on the barbell station. You can quickly switch to the dual cable pulley system for endless exercise variety.
With urethane-coated weight plates, band pegs, dip handles, and other accessories, this durable and compact trainer provides all the tools you need for a complete strength workout in your home gym.
Key Benefits
- 65 Adjustment Points on the Rack
- Dual integrated 289 lb weight stacks attached to 2,000 lb rated cables with 2:1 cable ratios.
- Commercially sealed Smith Machine bearing pulleys.
- Two chin-up bars with knurling, including a front-mounted Multi-Grip and a side-mounted Globe Grip/Wide Grip.
- 10x Olympic and standard weight plate storage sleeves.
Specifications:
Top reason to buy – Personal opinion
As a devoted strength training enthusiast, the Force USA G20 embodies my ideal home gym setup.
Twenty-nine attachments and endless adjustment options make this dynamic functional trainer truly earn its designation as the most versatile all-in-one machine.
A power rack, Smith machine, leg press, and more integrated into one sleek yet heavy-duty piece of equipment is a game changer for your limited space.
For me, the premium commercial-grade quality provides confidence this rig can withstand everything I throw at it while still feeling buttery smooth during use.
G20 Price: $5.999,99
- A dynamic functional trainer power rack, Smith machine, leg press, and more.
- Price exceeds basic options
4. Best commercial functional trainer: REP FT-5000 available trainer 2.0
Bringing commercial-grade, cable-based functional training to your home gym, the REP FT-5000 is one of the best quality functional trainers available.
With its dual 200-pound weight stacks and aircraft-grade steel cabling system with 12 pulleys and cables, this trainer rivals what you’d find in a top-tier fitness facility.
The FT-5000 opens up endless exercise possibilities to work your entire body with fluid, dynamic movements. The REP FT-5000 leads the pack for build, features, and versatility.
Key Benefits
- 21 adjustment points to allow for more customization and natural movements
- Multiple pull-up options are integrated right into the functional trainer.
- Weight stacks totaling 448 lbs at a 2:1 ratio.
- The trolley is lighter and has a smaller profile
- Upgraded pulleys are aluminum instead of plastic
- Cable column markings are laser-etched and numbered on the inside of the uprights.
Specifications:
Top reason to buy – Personal opinion
The number one reason I recommend the REP FT-5000 2.0 is the unbeatable quality you get for the price.
At just $2,500, this functional trainer delivers commercial-grade durability and performance that typically costs much more. The heavyweight 11-gauge steel frame provides stability during any exercise while still feeling smooth and fluid when moving between positions.
I also like that it ships partially assembled for a quicker, more straightforward setup than other functional trainers. While the starting 12.5-pound Weight may exceed some users’ needs for isolation moves, and the 52-inch height limit could restrict taller lifters’ range of motion, these are relatively minor drawbacks.
For most home gym owners, the FT-5000 2.0’s premium construction, reasonable cost, and lifetime frame warranty make it an incredible value purchase that will deliver results for years.
FT-5000 Price: $2.499,99
- Commercial-grade durability reasonable cost, and lifetime frame warranty
5. Best smart functional trainers: Tonal
The Tonal is one of the best compact options available if you’re looking for a functional trainer that takes up minimal space.
Using electromagnetism instead of weight stacks, this smart fitness system provides up to 200 pounds of resistance for strength training and functional exercises. With its digital weight selection and AI-powered feedback, Tonal makes it easy to progress at your own pace across a massive exercise library.
While more expensive than standard cable machines, the Tonal’s advanced features and small footprint elevate your functional training possibilities at home.
Key Benefits
- Clever handle – Six-axis gyroscopes track every rep, and you’ll activate adaptive Weight by pushing a button.
- Bright bar – Perform your favorite bar-based exercises and turn your Weight on or off when you’re in position and ready to lift.
- New rope – Hook up the cord to perform pulling exercises. You’ll feel the burn without getting rope burn.
- Bench – A soft surface for hard workouts, the bar is ready for various lifts.
- Exercise mat – Get cushioned support for your floor movements with the workout mat.
Specifications:
Top reason to buy – Personal opinion
In my opinion, Tonal’s standout advantage is the unparalleled interactive and adaptive training experience it provides.
Unlike any other commercial gym equipment, Tonal offers on-screen coaching to guide you through routines while automatically adjusting resistance and reps to push you toward your goals. The machine learns and tailors the workouts based on your progression.
With the ability to mount to the wall, Tonal also solves the space limitations many face for functional training at home. While the upfront and monthly subscription costs are substantial investments, the interactive activity, personalized adaptability, and space-saving format create an unmatched user experience that drives results.
Tonal Price: $3.995
- On-screen coaching to guide you through routines while automatically adjusting resistance and reps to push you toward your goals.
- Ability to mount to the wall – solves space limitations
6. Best portable functional trainer: Vitruvian Trainer+
The V Trainer is an innovative take on functional training explicitly designed for small spaces.
This all-in-one trainer allows you to perform over 200 exercises without the bulk of typical cable machines using vacuum resistance technology and adjustable arms.
Easy to set up and use, the V Trainer combines cardio, strength training, and functional movements like squats, lunges, and presses into one revolutionary system. The V Trainer is worth considering if you want to elevate your home gym with a unique, space-saving, functional trainer.
Key Benefits
- 0-440lb(200kg) of digital weights.
- Adaptive weights that rapidly adjust to challenge you or retract where needed.
- Compact and portable to easily store under a bed or couch when not in use.
- 300+ classes and goal-oriented programs, replacing the need for a personal trainer.
- 200+ exercises to build customized workouts.
- Multiple training modes, including Pump, Time Under Tension, Old School, and Eccentric, are Only for all training phases.
- Data tracking and performance insights to ensure consistent progress.
Specifications:
Top reason to buy – Personal opinion
Based on users’ experience, the critical advantage of the Vitruvian Trainer+ is the incredibly natural feel of the electric resistance system.
Unlike other electronic systems, the trainer’s resistance levels truly emulate lifting absolute weights in intensity and feel. The smooth, quiet operation and quick weight adjustments via the app also enhance the user experience.
While the accessory connectors may raise some durability concerns, they allow fast transitions between exercises. Vitruvian’s top-notch service team is readily available to help with any problems. Given the commercial-grade quality and innovative electric weight system mimicking absolute weights, the Trainer+ is worth the investment.
No other electronic functional trainer compares effectively replicating real weight lifting sensations.
V+ Price: $2.990
- No other electronic functional trainer effectively replicates real weight-lifting sensations
- quiet operation and quick weight adjustments
7. Best functional trainer cable machine: Inspire FT2 functional trainer
Combining a Smith machine with a dual cable pulley system, the Inspire FT2 is a rugged plate-loaded functional trainer ideal for garage gyms.
Load the barbell with Olympic weight plates for squats, bench presses, and deadlifts. Then, switch to the pulley cables for rows, triceps, pushdowns, curls, and more.
With a 300-pound weight capacity and a space-saving footprint, the Inspire FT2 provides versatile functional training. Add the optional lat and leg attachments for even more exercise possibilities.
Key Benefits
- FTX has a resistance ratio of 2:1 per pulley. The maximum weight you can lift per pulley is 82.5 lbs.
- Dual weight stacks – 2 x 165 lbs (75 kgs)
- Includes: Tricep Rope, 2 x Deluxe D Handles, Dual Hook Curl Bar, Chin/Dip Belt
- This product is the smallest size available in the market.
- Electrostatic Powder Coat
Specifications:
Top reason to buy – Personal opinion
The integrated Smith machine and cable crossover provide unmatched versatility and effectively give you two devices in one sleek setup. While the bar may impede some exercises for taller users, that’s a relatively small trade-off.
Given its premium quality materials, versatile dual-function design, and 165-pound weight capacity upgradeable to over 200 pounds, the FT2 is well worth the investment for those seeking commercial-level performance in their home gym.
The key selling point of the Inspire Fitness FT2 is its exceptional durability, thanks to its commercial-grade construction. Inspire’s reputation for building equipment tough enough for daily use in gyms gives me confidence that this machine can withstand regular use in my home gym without issues.
FT-2 Price: $4.699
- Enjoy premium quality materials, versatile dual-function design, and 165-pound weight capacity
- Price exceeds basic options
8. best value: Bells of Steel Functional Trainer
Featuring dual 204-pound weight stacks and a variety of handle attachments, the Bells of Steel functional trainer is one of the most versatile cable machines available.
With 16 different pulley positions along the column, you can customize every exercise while targeting other muscle groups. The commercial-grade design provides incredibly smooth operation even under heavy loads.
From rows to crunches to triceps extensions, the Bells of Steel functional trainer delivers endless options to build full-body functional strength at home.
Key Benefits
- 210 lb weight stacks.
- Thirty-three height settings to allow for more customization and natural movements.
- Two handles included.
- Resistance ratio of 2:1. The maximum Weight you can lift is 102.5 lbs.
- Rack attachment compatible.
- It must be bolted down.
Specifications:
| Weight | 324lbs/147kg |
| Length (Depth) | 25.1″/638mm |
| Width | 28.5″/724mm |
| Height | 80.9″/2,055mm |
| Pull Ratio | 2:1 |
| Pulley Material | Aluminum |
| Machine Material | Steel |
| Machine Type | Pin-Loaded Stack |
| Cable Capacity | 250lbs |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime |
Top reason to buy – Personal opinion
The Bells of Steel trainer’s number one advantage is its exceptional value at its sub-$2,000 price point.
Finding a functional trainer with commercial-grade features is rare at such an affordable cost. While the 14-gauge steel construction is thinner than some pricier models, this allows for the lowered price while retaining durability, according to many satisfied customers.
If you care for it correctly, the build quality should be upheld for home use. For any home gym owner on a budget, this trainer delivers robust performance and versatility at a fraction of the cost of comparable models.
Just be aware that the lower price means taking extra care when handling and operating it.
Bells Price: $1.129,99
- Robust performance and versatility at a fraction of the cost of comparable models.
9. best compact functional trainer: Fusion CST Studio
As a state-of-the-art functional training center, the Fusion CST Studio combines a Smith machine, dual cable cross, and bench into one premium machine.
With 3D camera tracking and digital resistance, this smart, functional trainer adjusts to your strength levels and pace. The Fusion CST makes it easy to progress through hundreds of exercises with real-time feedback displayed on the interactive Touchscreen.
Though expensive, it provides an unparalleled functional training experience at home.
Key Benefits
- More explosive power and enhanced stamina
- Experience huge pumps
- More concentration without jitters
- Natural taste without artificial sweeteners
- Only 5 kcal per serving
- No proprietary blends
- Stream on-demand strength workouts whenever you choose.
- Choose elite iFIT* personal trainers.
- Automatically adjust resistance for you based on cues from your trainer.
- Enormous training options.
- Create up to five profiles with your iFIT Family Membership.
- Real-time performance stat tracking.
Specifications:
Top reason to buy – Personal opinion
CST functional trainer provides an engaging and comprehensive workout experience.
With its Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR™) technology, you can work out in a silent and smooth environment while enjoying real-time performance stat tracking.
This is the perfect choice for those looking for a complete workout system that provides innovative training.
Fusion Price: $999
- Work out in a silent and smooth environment while enjoying real-time performance stat tracking.
10. Best functional trainer for home gym: Nemesis 300 LB Single stack functional trainer
For home gym owners with limited space, the Nemesis 300 LB single stack trainer provides a surprising versatility.
Despite having only one weight stack, you can perform various exercises like chest presses, rows, curls, triceps extensions, and more. The pulley system allows you to easily switch between high and low cable positions for unilateral and bilateral movements.
Durable construction and a 300-pound weight capacity make this an accommodating functional training option for smaller home gyms.
Key Benefits
- Nine vertical arm angle positions with a 180-degree range of adjustments.
- Three horizontal arm angle positions in 5-degree increments.
- Each arm is independent of the other, allowing over 1,000 explosive strength training positions.
- The highest pulley position is at 78″ | The lowest pulley position is at 16″.
- 4:1 split-weight cabling for increased cable travel.
- 2:1 pulley ratio when using the single handle, curl bar, or long bar.
- Anodized red aluminum pulleys with aircraft-grade cable.
- Footrests to stabilize when performing seated and standing exercises.
- Includes a Long Bar, Short Bar, Waist Strap, Dual Stirrup Handles, and an Ankle Strap.
Specifications:
Top reason to buy – Personal opinion
The Nemesis Titan fitness functional trainer is an excellent option for those seeking a comprehensive full-body workout without taking up too much space.
Its adjustable arms allow it to provide over 1,000 training positions, and its anodized red aluminum pulleys with aircraft-grade cable ensure smooth operation during workouts.
Nemesis Price: $1.999,99
- Adjustable arms allow it to provide over 1,000 training positions
11. Best functional training center: Force USA G6 All-In-One Trainer
The Force USA G6 bundles a power rack, pulley tower, leg press, and lat pull into one piece of all-in-one home gym equipment. In addition to traditional strength training on the fixed squat rack, you can perform hundreds of exercises on the dual-stacked pulley system.
With urethane Olympic plate holders, band pegs, dip handles, and a range of attachments, this space-saving functional trainer provides everything you need for a comprehensive workout in your home gym. The Force USA G6 eliminates the need for multiple machines.
Key Benefits
- Cable crossover allows you to perform over 75 different exercises.
- Includes eight functional trainer attachments and 2 x 220lb integrated weight stacks at the back of the unit for the ultimate strength training workout.
- The Smith Machine station is rated up to 772lb and includes a fixed barbel for use with Olympic weight plates.
- Ergonomically designed Multi-Grip Chin Up and Pull Up station.
- Different grip positions target other upper-body muscle groups.
- Twenty-seven included attachments.
Specifications:
Top reason to buy – Personal opinion
ForceUsa G6 functional trainer is an excellent option for those looking to bring the gym experience into their home.
It provides a comprehensive range of exercises, including cable crossovers, a smith machine, and multi-grip chin-ups that you can use to target your whole body.
G6 Price: $3.499,99
- All-in-One trainer with a comprehensive range of exercises, including cable crossovers, a smith machine, and multi-grip chin-ups
What is a functional Trainer?
A functional trainer is a versatile and practical fitness equipment that combines multiple exercises into one station.
It typically consists of two adjustable cable pulleys, which can be used for pulling or pushing movements with different handles, straps, and accessories.
Best functional trainers offer a range of features to accommodate users of different fitness levels, such as adjustable height positions, dual cable pulleys, safety mechanisms, and multiple grip options.
Functional trainers are perfect for a full-body workout that targets all muscle groups and can help you develop strength, balance, coordination, and mobility.
With the best functional trainer, you can get an effective workout anytime at home.
How I chose the best functional Trainer
Size
The size and footprint of the trainer were vital so it would fit well in any space. I looked at compact models around 4 feet wide and larger units over 5 feet wide. I measured the length and width of the area I planned to put it in to ensure a proper fit.
Design
A sturdy and stable design was critical for safety and durability during rigorous workouts. I looked for thick steel tubing in the frames, Weight stacks over 200 lbs, and metal pulleys. Units with robust welds and bushings got bonus points for added stability.
Resistance
Adjustable resistance levels were a must to accommodate different strength training needs. I preferred units with at least 100 lbs of resistance and the option to add more weight plates. Having a smooth range of incremental weight adjustments provided flexibility, too.
Attachments
The variety and quality of attachments influenced my decision as well. I wanted pull-up bars, row handles, ankle straps, and resistance bands to open up exercise options. It was helpful to have attachments included versus needing to buy them separately.
Versatility
How versatile the trainer was in accommodating different exercises mattered, too. Independent cable arms and pulleys increased the number of possible motions. The option to use it for squats, lunges, presses, and other moves expanded the value.
Pulley Ratio
Finally, I looked at the pulley ratio, which determines cable resistance. A 2:1 percentage takes 50 lbs of Weight to provide 100 lbs of lift resistance. Higher ratios provide more resistance from less Weight, which can maximize smaller weight stacks.
Benefits of a Functional Trainer
Convenience
Having a functional trainer in your home gym provides a significant convenience factor. You can get in strength and cardio workouts without traveling to a gym.
No more wasting time driving back and forth or waiting for equipment to open up. Just walk downstairs or to your home gym space and start training whenever you want. Convenience leads to more consistency, which is vital for progress.
Versatility
The wide range of possible exercises on a functional trainer is a huge benefit. You can work your entire body from upper to lower in dozens of unique ways. Swap attachments to focus on different muscle groups and motions as needed.
The two adjustable pulleys open up more exercise combinations to efficiently target areas. You save time not needing multiple machines.
Save Money
While functional trainers have an upfront equipment cost, they can save money over time. No more wasted gym membership fees when you cancel because you don’t go enough. No dropping tons of cash on specialized machines for each body part.
One quality functional trainer allows you to cancel memberships and consolidate equipment. The long-term savings add up both money and space-wise.
What to Look for in a Functional Trainer
Summing up
After reviewing the top options, I hope this article clarifies choosing the ideal functional trainer for your home gym needs. With so many models available, assessing your specific requirements first is essential.
Consider your space, budget, workout goals, and must-have features. Look for units with adjustable pulleys, ample resistance, various attachments, and a sturdy yet compact design. Try out machines in person to get a feel for them.
Whichever trainer you choose, ensure it aligns well with your fitness routine and goals. The right one will provide an efficient, challenging, full-body workout at home for years. Check retailer discounts, too – you may get an even better deal on these worthwhile investments in your health and well-being.
Let me know if you have any other questions! I’m happy to help you find the perfect functional trainer to optimize and energize your home workouts.
Frequently Asked Questions for Best Functional Trainers
Do functional trainers work?
Yes, functional trainers work!
Functional trainers are designed to effectively target all major muscle groups in the body to provide an effective workout for any fitness level.
It is important to remember that for the best functional trainer to be effective, it must be used correctly and with the proper form.
What to look for when buying a functional trainer?
When buying a functional trainer, it is essential to consider the size of the unit, the quality of construction, and the range of features it offers.
The more features and adjustability a unit has, the more versatile your workouts will be – allowing you to target all major muscle groups in the body effectively.
How Much Does a Functional Trainer Cost?
The cost of functional trainers can vary greatly, depending on the features and design of the unit.
Entry-level units can start as low as $800, while more advanced models can cost up to $3000 or more.
When considering the best functional trainer for purchase, it is crucial to view all of the features you desire and the amount of space you have available.
Researching and comparing different models will help ensure you find the best unit for your budget and needs.
