8 Best Cable Machines for Home Gym

Looking for the best cable machines for your home gym? Read our expert reviews and recommendations to find the perfect fit for your fitness routine and space.

Cable machines are versatile exercise equipment that is easy to use and provides constant stimulation of your muscles. You can develop almost any muscle in your body by doing a variety of exercises. Because of this, it is one of the most preferred home gym machines.

We researched several cable machines on the market to help you find the best cable machine for your home gym. And we discovered that the XMARK Functional Trainer Cable Machine is the best cable machine for the home gym.

But not everyone’s choices are the same, and the right machine for your home gym may be different. That’s why we’ve included reviews of various cable pulley machine products.

Find the machine that’s right for your home gym.

Let’s get started.

Our Top Choices

Are you in a hurry? Here are our pick of the best cable machines for home gyms.

Our Pick

Best Budget Cable Machine

Best Premium Cable Machine

Our Choice of The Best Cable Machines for Home Gyms

1. XMARK Functional Trainer Cable Machine (Best Cable Machine for Home Gym Overall)
2. Valor Fitness BD-62 Wall Mount Cable Station (Best Single Column Cable Machine for Home Gym)
3. Valor Fitness BD-61 Cable Crossover Station (Best Budget Functional Trainer for Home Gym)
4. Inspire Fitness FTX Functional Trainer (Best Compact Functional Trainer for Home Gym)
5. Best Fitness by Body-Solid BFFT10R Functional Trainer and Cable Machine (Best Home Gym Cable Machine for Beginners)
6. Body-Solid Powerline PFT100 Functional Trainer Cable Machine (Best Cost-effective Functional Trainer for Home Gym)
7. Body-Solid Powerline PCCO90X Cable Crossover Machine (Best Budget Cable Crossover Machine for Home Gym)
8. FreeMotion Dual Cable EXT Crossover (Best Premium Cable Machine for Home Gym)

8 Best Cable Machines for Home Gyms Reviewed

Below we introduce the 8 best cable machines for your home gym.

XMARK Functional Trainer Cable Machine

• Type : Functional Trainer, Weight Stacks
• Pulley Placement : Side-by-Side, Swivel
• Max Weight Load and Resistance Ratio : Dual 200 lbs, 2:1
• Size : 65″ x 43.5″ x 83″
• Pulley Adjustments : 19 Adjustment Positions
• Warranty : Lifetime frame, 1 year cables and pulleys

If you want to turn your home gym into a commercial grade, this cable machine is for you. With 200 lbs dual stacks, 19 position adjustable pulleys and a variety of attachments included, you can do whatever exercise you want.

This functional trainer cable machine is made of 11 gauge, 2″ x 3″ steel. It’s very sturdy, and you don’t have to worry about the machine wobbling while using it.

It is a dual weight stacks system and weighs 200 lbs each. It can be changed in 10 lbs increments, giving you plenty of control over your desired workout weight.

A pull-up bar is included and a bench can be placed in the space between the stacks to perform a variety of exercises. The compact design saves space.

It is a bit expensive compared to other machines, but it is a functional trainer cable machine that is well worth it.

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Valor Fitness BD-62 Wall Mount Cable Station

• Type : Single Column, Weight Plates
• Pulley Placement : Side-by-Side, Swivel
• Max Weight Load and Resistance Ratio : 200 lbs, 1:1
• Size : 25″ x 24.5″ x 80″
• Pulley Adjustments : 16 Adjustment Positions
• Warranty : 3 years frame, 1 year cables

If you’re looking for a plate loaded cable machine that’s cheap and doesn’t take up a lot of space, this machine might be your best bet. This machine is durable and a wall-mounted cable machine with 17 adjustment positions.

Both standard weight plates and Olympic weight plates can be used. However, the Olympic adapter sleeves are not provided. When using the Olympic weight plates, you do not have to use adapter sleeves, and you can exercise by fixing it with safety clips.

It is fairly easy to assemble compared to other cable machines. It will probably take less than an hour.

The base of the machine is equipped with rubber caps to protect the floor. However, there is no stabilizer that can be fixed to the floor. It can wobble during exercise, so it is better to attach it to the wall and use it. When attached to the wall, it will be stable and sturdy to use.

It is very compact and allows for a variety of exercises, so it is one of the best cable machines for home gyms.

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Valor Fitness BD-61 Cable Crossover Station

• Type : Functional Trainer, Weight Plates
• Pulley Placement : Side-by-Side, Swivel
• Max Weight Load and Resistance Ratio : 250 lbs, 1:1
• Size : 50″ x 56″ x 81″
• Pulley Adjustments : 16 Adjustment Positions
• Warranty : 3 years frame, 1 year cables

This is a practical plate loaded cable machine with three pulley positions: high pulley, low pulley and multi-grip pulley station. The pulleys pivot in multiple directions, so if you keep a safe distance, you can exercise with your family at the home gym.

The handle can be adjusted to 16 positions to help anyone find a comfortable workout position.

If your home gym has low ceilings, this machine may be your best bet. However, the machine’s height is not on the high side, so if you’re more than 6 feet tall, it might not fit you a bit. 

It can support weights up to 250 lbs, which is the highest level for a home cable machine. However, it is not commercial grade like gym equipment.

When you’re on a tight budget, it’s probably the best functional trainer cable machine you can put in your home gym.

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Inspire Fitness FTX Functional Trainer

• Type : Functional Trainer, Weight Stacks
• Pulley Placement : Side-by-Side, Swivel
• Max Weight Load and Resistance Ratio : Dual 165 lbs, 2:1
• Size : 54″ x 40″ x 82″
• Pulley Adjustments : 30 Adjustment Positions
• Warranty : Limited lifetime frame and all parts

This machine is the most compact cable machine among functional trainers. It has a small footprint, so space can be saved as much as possible. If you do not have enough space in your home gym, but want to purchase a functional trainer that can perform various exercises, this machine is the best choice.

The pulley can be swiveled all around and can be adjusted to 30 positions. The pulley movement is also very smooth. There are no lags or jerks in movement, and there is no noise so other family members will not be disturbed.

The machine is quite heavy, but the assembly process is fairly straightforward. The assembly instructions are also easy to understand.

The height of the machine may not be enough for a tall person. If you’re taller than 6 feet, you may need to bend your knees to work out full range of motion using the pull-up bar.

There aren’t many attachments that come with it, but everything is well designed and built to last a long time.

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Best Fitness by Body-Solid BFFT10R Functional Trainer and Cable Machine

• Type : Functional Trainer, Weight Stacks
• Pulley Placement : Side-by-Side, Swivel
• Max Weight Load and Resistance Ratio : Single 190 lbs, 2:1
• Size : 55″ x 61″ x 84″
• Pulley Adjustments : 19 Adjustment Positions
• Warranty : 3 years frame, 1 year all parts

It’s a good machine for beginners or users with moderate fitness levels. Because it uses a single weight stack of 190 lbs, it is not suitable for heavy lifting that builds your body huge. However, various exercises can help increase muscle strength. The weight stack is adjusted in 15 lbs increments.

Because the movement is smooth, it is a good choice if you mainly do exercises with a lot of repetitions.

Assembly takes a little time, but is very simple.

The downside of this machine is that the cable length is rather short. Long arms may limit your range of motion in some exercises. Also, only a standard handle is provided, so if you need other attachments, you will need to purchase an additional one.

It’s not expensive, so it’s a good machine for beginners on a tighter budget.

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Body-Solid Powerline PFT100 Functional Trainer Cable Machine

• Type : Functional Trainer, Weight Stacks
• Pulley Placement : Side-by-Side, Swivel
• Max Weight Load and Resistance Ratio : Dual 160 lbs, 2:1
• Size : 42.3″ x 62.6″ x 83″
• Pulley Adjustments : 20 Adjustment Positions
• Warranty : 10 years frame, 1 year all parts

This machine is a solid, smooth-running functional trainer and a great value for money machine.

The 160 lbs dual weight stacks and adjustable pulleys provide a variety of workouts. You can also upgrade to 210 lbs by adding 50 lbs. A straight pull-up bar is also provided.

It can be adjusted to 20 positions, so you can comfortably do the exercise you want, regardless of your height.

It is a disadvantage that additional attachments such as tricep ropes, short bars, and long bars are not provided, but considering the price, it is okay.

There are many functional trainers with weight stacks of 200 lbs or more, but they are a bit pricey. If you don’t need that much weight, this machine is the best choice for the price.

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Body-Solid Powerline PCCO90X Cable Crossover Machine

• Type : Cable Crossover, Weight Plates
• Pulley Placement : Facing, Swivel
• Max Weight Load and Resistance Ratio : Unknown, 2:1
• Size : 112″ x 39″ x 82″
• Pulley Adjustments : None
• Warranty : 10 years frame, 1 year all parts

This machine is not as compact as a functional trainer, but it is reasonably priced. Also, because it uses weight plates, there is no need to worry about the installation and maintenance of the weight stack tower.

Both Olympic and standard plates are available, so you can save money if you use the plates you have at home.

The disadvantage is that the position of the pulley cannot be adjusted. Pulleys are located at the top and bottom.

It is not known what the maximum weight capacity is, but some reviewers say it can hold up to 180 lbs without any problems. If you do fly workouts with heavy weights, make sure to support the bottom of the machine. Otherwise, the machine may wobble and be dangerous.

Overall, it’s a great cable crossover machine and probably the best for the price. If you purchase additional attachments, you will be able to use it more satisfactorily.

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FreeMotion Dual Cable EXT Crossover

• Type : Functional Trainer, Weight Stacks
• Pulley Placement : Side-by-Side, Swivel
• Max Weight Load and Resistance Ratio : Dual 210 lbs, 3:1
• Size : 60″ x 113″ x 84″
• Pulley Adjustments : Vertical and Horizontal Adjustable
• Warranty : Lifetime frame, 10 years parts, 1 year cables

Although it looks different from a normal cable machine, it can help you exercise very effectively.

The pulleys are attached to each arm that rotates at intervals of 12 inches vertically and 9 inches horizontally. This allows users of virtually any height and arm length range to perform any pattern of movement.

The machine is equipped with two weight stacks of 210 lbs each, allowing two people to work out at the same time.

Weight stacks weigh from 9 lbs to 210 lbs in 9 lbs increments. This is great for rehab exercises or learning movements.

The machine is made of sturdy 7 and 11 gauge steel tubing for optimum durability and exceptional quality.

There’s nowhere to put the chin-up bar, but it helps you perform almost every move to perfection.

The only thing to be concerned about with this machine is that it is very heavy. The machine weighs more than 900 lbs. Once assembled, it is difficult to move, so it is recommended to start assembling at the desired location.

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Benefits of Using Cable Machines for Home Workouts

Cable machines are versatile pieces of equipment that are commonly found in commercial gyms, but they can also be a great addition to a home gym. Using a cable machine can provide numerous benefits for your home workouts. We will explore some of the advantages of incorporating a cable machine into your exercise routine.

Variety of exercises

One of the main benefits of using a cable machine is the wide range of exercises that can be performed. Cable machines allow for a full range of motion and can be used for exercises such as rows, curls, tricep extensions, and leg presses. Additionally, many cable machines come with attachments that allow for even more exercises, such as lat pulldowns and cable crossovers.

Adjustable resistance

Another advantage of using a cable machine is the ability to adjust the resistance quickly and easily. Unlike free weights, which require the addition or removal of weight plates, cable machines can be adjusted with the turn of a knob. This makes it easy to perform drop sets and other intensity techniques without having to take time to change weights.

Safe and controlled movements

Cable machines offer a safe and controlled way to perform exercises. The cable provides a constant tension throughout the entire range of motion, which can help reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, the weight stack on a cable machine is usually enclosed, reducing the risk of injury from falling weights.

Space-saving design

Cable machines are a great option for those who have limited space in their home gym. They take up less space than a full set of dumbbells or a barbell and weight plates. Some cable machines even come with a foldable design that allows for easy storage.

Suitable for all fitness levels

Cable machines are suitable for beginners and experienced gym-goers alike. The adjustable resistance and variety of exercises make it easy to tailor workouts to individual fitness levels and goals.

In conclusion, incorporating a cable machine into your home gym can provide numerous benefits for your workouts. With the ability to perform a wide range of exercises, adjust the resistance easily, and offer a safe and controlled way to exercise, cable machines are a versatile and valuable piece of equipment for any home gym.

Guide To Buy Best Cable Machines for Your Home Gym

There are a few things to keep in mind when buying the best cable machines for your home gym. We will give you our guide on how to choose a cable machine for your home gym. This will help make the choice easier.

Essential considerations

In order to purchase a cable machine and exercise effectively, be sure to consider the following features.

Types of Cable Machines

It’s important to choose the right type of cable machine for the workout you want.

Single Cable Column

Single cable column machines have a stack of pulleys, cables and weights attached to one column. It has the least space constraints.

This type of machine is great for workouts like triceps pushdowns, bicep curls and cable upright rows.

Cable Crossover

The cable crossover machine consists of two pulleys with separate weight stacks. You can do a variety of upper body, lower body and core exercises. A representative exercise that can be done with this machine is cable crossover, and it is also suitable for exercises such as abdominal cable crunches, cable squats, standing cable presses, cable flys, and overhead cable curls. Some machines have chin-up bars to provide a more versatile workout.

Functional Trainer

The functional trainer is a cable machine that consists of two weight stacks, pulleys and cables, providing a variety of exercise benefits. It is a popular machine because it takes up little space and can perform a variety of exercises. You can do a variety of exercises, such as seated cable rows, wood chops, standing leg curls, and chest presses.

Maximum Weight Load and Resistance Ratio

Make sure the cable machine can safely withstand the weight of the exercise you will be doing. Typically, a weight stack type cable machine can handle up to 150-200 lbs. For cable machines using plates, you need to know what the maximum weight load is. It is very dangerous to overload the machine beyond its maximum weight load.

Also, check how much weight you can exercise with the resistance ratio of the cable machine.

Single Pulley VS Double Pulley

Even if you exercise with the same weight, different cable machines may require different lifting forces. This is because each cable uses a different number of pulleys. For a single pulley, the resistance ratio is 1:1, and for a double pulley system, the resistance ratio is 2:1. For example, if you lift 100 lbs, you can lift it with only 50 lbs of force. When purchasing a cable machine, you should look at both the maximum weight load and the resistance ratio.

Size and Space 

Since there are different types of cable machines, the size of the equipment also varies. If you’re looking to buy a crossover cable machine, you may need a lot more space than the others. If you want to buy a machine with a chin-up bar, you may need a higher ceiling height. Most home gyms don’t have that much space. Measure the space of your home gym in advance. You should choose a machine within the scope of what is possible.

Additional considerations

If you consider the following features, you will be able to use the cable machine more satisfactorily.

Versatility

The great thing about cable machines is that you can develop most of the muscles in your body. Even muscles that are difficult to stimulate with free weights can be stimulated. You can perform a variety of exercise routines using a machine with rotating pulleys that can be adjusted up and down.

Attachments

If you are working out on a cable machine, it’s a good idea to use a variety of grip attachments. Most cable machines will come with single strap handles. Check to see if it comes with a lat pulldown bar, triceps rope, or V bar. If you invest in these attachments together, you will be able to do a variety of exercises without getting bored.

Cable Machine Exercises for a Full-Body Workout

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, cable machines offer a versatile and effective way to target multiple muscle groups while improving strength, endurance, and flexibility. We will discuss some of the best cable machine exercises for a full-body workout.

Cable Squats

This exercise targets your lower body, including your glutes, quads, and hamstrings. To perform this exercise, attach the cable handle to the lowest setting on the cable machine, grab the handle, and stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Lower your body down into a squat position, keeping your back straight and your knees over your toes. Slowly return to the starting position and repeat.

Cable Chest Fly

This exercise targets your chest muscles and is an excellent alternative to traditional bench presses. To perform this exercise, attach the handles to the highest setting on the cable machine, grab the handles, and step forward until you feel tension on the cables. Bring your hands together in front of your chest, then slowly release them out to your sides, keeping your arms straight. Return to the starting position and repeat.

Cable Rows

This exercise targets your back muscles, including your lats and rhomboids. To perform this exercise, attach the handle to the middle setting on the cable machine, grab the handle, and sit down with your legs extended in front of you. Pull the handle towards your body, keeping your elbows close to your sides, and squeeze your shoulder blades together. Slowly release the handle and repeat.

Cable Bicep Curls

This exercise targets your biceps and is an excellent way to build arm strength. To perform this exercise, attach the handle to the lowest setting on the cable machine, grab the handle with an underhand grip, and stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bring the handle towards your shoulders, keeping your elbows close to your sides. Slowly release the handle and repeat.

Cable Leg Press

his exercise targets your legs and is an excellent way to build lower body strength. To perform this exercise, attach the handle to the lowest setting on the cable machine, sit on the ground with your back against the machine, and place your feet on the handle. Push the handle away from your body, extending your legs fully. Slowly release the handle and repeat.

In brief, cable machine exercises offer a versatile and effective way to achieve a full-body workout from the comfort of your home gym. By incorporating these exercises into your fitness routine, you can target multiple muscle groups while improving your strength, endurance, and flexibility. So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, cable machines are a must-have for any home gym.

Maintenance and Care for Your Cable Machine

Like any piece of gym equipment, proper maintenance and care are crucial to ensure the machine stays in top condition and lasts for years to come. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips on how to maintain and care for your cable machine.

Regular cleaning

Sweat, dirt, and dust can accumulate on the cable machine over time, causing it to malfunction or wear out faster. Regularly wipe down the machine with a damp cloth or a mild cleaner to remove any dirt or sweat residue.

Lubrication

Keeping the cable machine lubricated is essential for smooth operation. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the pulleys, cables, and weight stacks every few months to prevent rust and corrosion.

Inspection

Regularly inspect your cable machine for any signs of wear and tear. Look for frayed cables, loose nuts and bolts, or any other damage that could affect the machine’s performance or safety.

Tightening screws and bolts

Loose screws and bolts can cause the cable machine to wobble or shake during use. Check all the screws and bolts periodically and tighten them if necessary.

Proper use

Using your cable machine correctly can prevent damage and prolong its lifespan. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using the machine, and avoid using it for exercises that exceed its weight capacity.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your cable machine remains in excellent condition for years to come. A well-maintained cable machine will not only provide you with an effective workout, but it will also save you money in the long run by reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.

Basically, proper maintenance and care are essential for any gym equipment, including cable machines. By incorporating these tips into your regular routine, you can keep your cable machine in excellent condition and enjoy a safe and effective workout in the comfort of your home gym.

FAQ about Cable Machines

Below are answers to frequently asked questions about cable machines.

Are cable machines suitable for beginners, or are they more appropriate for advanced users?

Cable machines can be suitable for both beginners and advanced users.

For beginners, cable machines provide a great way to learn and master the correct form for various exercises without the added weight of free weights. Cable machines also provide a more stable platform for beginners to work on their balance and stability.

For advanced users, cable machines provide a wide range of resistance levels, allowing them to perform exercises at higher intensities. Cable machines also allow advanced users to perform a wide variety of exercises that target specific muscle groups and movement patterns, which can help to improve overall athletic performance.

Ultimately, the suitability of cable machines for beginners or advanced users depends on the individual’s fitness level and goals. It is important to consult a fitness professional to determine if cable machines are appropriate for your fitness level and goals, and to receive proper instruction on how to use the equipment safely and effectively.

Can a cable machine be used for full-body workouts, or is it mainly for specific muscle groups?

A cable machine can definitely be used for full-body workouts. While it’s true that cable machines are excellent for targeting specific muscle groups, they are also versatile enough to allow for a variety of exercises that engage multiple muscle groups at once.

For example, you can perform exercises such as cable squats, cable lunges, and cable deadlifts to work your legs and glutes, while also engaging your core and back muscles. Similarly, you can use cable machines for upper body exercises like cable chest presses, cable rows, and cable bicep curls, which work your chest, back, arms, and shoulders.

Additionally, cable machines can be used for functional training movements such as rotational chops, wood chops, and cable twists, which engage your core, arms, and legs in a full-body movement. With some creativity and planning, you can use a cable machine to create a comprehensive full-body workout routine that targets all major muscle groups.

What are the advantages of cable machines?

It is often said that free weights are better, but many people in the gym spend their time on the cable machines. [1]

The advantage of cable machine exercise is that constant tension is maintained even when muscles contract or relax. This results in greater stimulation of the muscles and a rapid increase in strength. On the other hand, in most machines, muscles are tense only when contracted and released when relaxed.

In addition, cable machines are easy to use and reduce the risk of injury.

Once you become proficient in using the cable machine, you will be able to perform numerous exercises using your upper and lower body at the same time.

What exercises can you do with a cable machine?

You can do a full body workout with a cable machine even if you don’t do free weights using dumbbells. You can do the following exercises: Cable crossover, cable crunch, seated cable row, cable fly, cable kickback, cable pressdown, cable lunge, overhead tricep extension, etc.

What is cable ratio?

The cable ratio is the difference between the weight chosen in the weight stack and the actual resistance the lifter will feel.

For example, a weight stack with 100 lbs selected and 2:1 ratio cable mounted would produce a resistance of 50 lbs (100 lbs / 2 = 50 lbs). So 150 lbs of 3:1 cable will produce 50 lbs of resistance, whereas 150 lbs of 1:1 cable will produce 150 lbs of resistance.

Our Verdict

Investing in a cable machine for your home gym is a really good choice. Rather than just choosing an expensive product, choose the product that best suits your workout environment. Overall, the XMARK Functional Trainer Cable Machine is an excellent choice as a cable machine for your home gym.