12 Best Functional Trainer Models for Home Gyms [2024 Review]

Choosing the best functional trainer for your home gym is challenging, especially if you have a limited budget or space to work with. Through our practical knowledge, it took me over 21 hours to research and test more than 25 different functional trainers.

After testing all of the best fitness functional trainer models, I chose the 12 best functional trainers based on their build quality, price, size and design, and several other factors.

So without any more waiting, let’s begin with the functional trainer reviews.

Top 3 Functional Trainers

Best Functional Trainer 2024 Reviews

Here are the best functional trainers for your home gym in 2024.

1. Best Functional Trainer Overall: Titan Fitness Functional Trainer 

The Titan Fitness functional trainer is constructed out of high-grade steel, which makes this all-in-one training system built to withstand intense workouts so that you can achieve your fitness goals.

Nonetheless, this best home gym functional trainer has weight stacks with 200 pounds of resistance in 10-pound increments, which allows you to perform a wide range of exercises, like squats, flies, and twists, while the accessories included are a rope handle, ankle strap, long and short bar, and others.

What makes this the best functional trainer for home gym is that it features comprehensive pulley options, including row, lat, and pull-down exercises.

Based on our first-hand experience, the biggest drawback to this Titan fitness functional trainer is that the customer service is not very responsive.

2. Best Budget Functional Trainer: Inspire Fitness FTX Functional Trainer 

The Inspire Fitness functional trainer is designed with a compact footprint, it is made out of heavy steel construction and features a sleek matte black powder coating finish, and with its small size, it can easily fit any home gym.

This is the best functional trainer if you want to have up to 30 swivel pulley options, which will allow you to have complete freedom to target various muscle groups and engage the core while also stabilizing muscles effectively.

Based on our observation, this is the best budget functional trainer because it comes with many attachments like a triceps bar, dual hook curl bar, pull-up bar, and many others.

The only downside to getting this one instead of a premium functional trainer is that the packaging will not be the best.

3. Best Value Functional Trainer: IRON COMPANY BodyCraft HFT Functional Trainer 

The Iron Company functional trainer is remarkable due to its versatility to adapt to your needs, whether you want to do sport-specific exercises, strength training, or leisure activities, and with the customization that this one has, you can do it all.

Nonetheless, this is the best value functional trainer because it is made with incredible attention to detail, which can be seen with cables constructed out of flexible nylon-coated strand aircraft cable with a tensile strength of over 2000 pounds, making it the best functional trainer.

Unlike other functional trainers, this one comes with an array of accessories, including an exercise book, short and long bar, pull-up bar, two single handles, ankle strap, two chains, and several other items.

Our investigation demonstrated that this is not the widest functional trainer out of these, and maybe you will have insufficient space for some movements.

4. Best Plate-Loaded Functional Trainer: Titan Fitness Plate-Loaded Functional Trainer 

The plate-loaded Titan fitness functional trainer has several options for the row, pull-down, and lat exercises so you can target various muscle groups and increase strength in your lower/middle back muscles and forearms.

What sets this Titan fitness functional trainer from others on the market and makes it the best functional trainer is that you can add resistance to essential exercises like chest presses, shoulder presses, and front squats, giving you the ability to push your limits and achieve better results.

In addition, the dimensions of 81 inches in height and a footprint of 61 by 53 inches, the Titan fitness functional trainer offers a compact yet sturdy design that can fit comfortably in most home gyms.

Through our trial and error, I discovered that instructions are not the best, and you will need to spend some time putting this plate loaded functional trainer into place.

5. Best Functional Trainer on Amazon: XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine 

The Xmark functional trainer is top-of-the-line gym equipment that is built with unmatched quality and provides a wide variety of exercises options; constructed out of a solid steel mainframe that weighs over 800 pounds, and its commercial-grade pull-up rig and pulley system give you a smoother and seamless training experience.

Also, this is the best functional trainer due to its dual 200 lb weight stacks and a pulley ratio of 2:1, allowing you for true iso lateral movements and enabling you to target specific muscles effectively.

Based on our first-hand experience, Xmark does the shipping excellent since it ships it in a heavy-duty, reinforced crate via a carrier.

Our analysis of this product revealed that some of the many attachments included in an Xmark functional trainer package were missing.

6. Best Premium Functional Trainer: REP Fitness FT-5000 2.0 Functional Trainer 

The Rep Fitness FT-5000 2.0 functional trainer features incredible versatility, with 21 cable positions and a dual 224 lb weight stack, totaling max weight to 448 pounds with a 2:1 ratio, enabling endless options for your resistance training.

What makes this the best premium functional trainer is the fact that the trolley design is improved when compared to before, making it lighter, slimmer, and easier to adjust with its laser-etched and numbered cable columns marked on the inside, while the pulleys are also upgraded to aluminum.

The difference between this one and the other functional trainers is that it has a sturdy 11-gauge double-coated frame with a chip-resistant, electrostatic powder-coating, guaranteeing it lasts.

Through our practical knowledge, I could see that some of the parts were missing.

7. Best Commercial Functional Trainer: Bells of Steel Functional Trainer 

The Bells of Steel functional trainer is a combination of a power rack and a functional trainer; because of that, you can do a wide range of exercises.

Based on our first-hand experience, this is the best commercial functional trainer since it has attachment storage so that you can put all your attachments in one place.

Furthermore, a functional trainer is constructed out of 14-gauge steel rails, aluminum pulleys, and rubber-encased weight stacks making this machine built to last.

Drawn from our experience, the one thing which can be better with this product is the packaging that needs improvement.

8. Best Portable Functional Trainer: VITRUVIAN Trainer+ 

The Vitruvian Trainer+ is designed to bring heavy lifting into your home gym, bedroom, or living room, and the Trainer+ allows you to do deadlifts, squats, bench presses, and others easily.

Also, its carbon fiber platform boasts 440 pounds of resistance, giving you the challenge you need without a spotter.

This all-in-one system combines a dumbbell rack, a squat rack, and a cable machine, making it the best functional machine if you want to have this kind of commercial gym experience at home.

After trying out this product, the main drawback is that you have to pay a monthly subscription of 40$ to be able to use it at full capacity.

9. Best Durable Functional Trainer: REP Fitness FT-3000 Compact Functional Trainer 

The Rep Fitness Ft-3000 functional trainer has a compact size and some impressive features, featuring b and two 187 lb weight stacks with a 2:1 pulley ratio, giving you a wide range of resistance options.

Based on our first-hand experience, this Rep Fitness FT3000 is amongst the best functional trainers; regarding its incredible and durable build quality, the frame is made out of aluminum and coated with electrostatic powder coating for chip resistance, and also the matte black finish adds to the sleek look.

However, Rep Fitness FT 3000 gives you exceptional wide versatility with 21 cable positions, allowing you to customize and make your movements as natural as possible during workouts.

Based on our observation, the assembling process can take up to 6 hours.

10. Best Compact Functional Trainer: ChopFit Functional Trainer System

The ChopFit is the best functional trainer due to its portability since it comes compact and includes a carry bag, making it easy to use no matter where you are.

Unlike other functional trainers, this is the best compact, functional trainer with zero setup requirements, and you can start immediately with your workouts and make the most out of every training, wherever you are.

When you get a Chopper Pro, you can access a comprehensive app with instructional content, interactive workouts, exercise libraries, and real-time progress tracking.

Our analysis of this product revealed that the price may be pricey for basic.

11. Best Smart Functional Trainer: Tonal Smart Home Gym 

The smart functional trainer Tonal combines revolutionary fitness systems with cutting-edge tech with a sleek design, everything from installation to warranty; Tonal gives its users a seamless experience.

Nonetheless, Tonal gives you a 30-day home trial, and if you are not completely satisfied, you will get the money back, and users that stick with it will have a 2-year limited warranty, so you are not worried about things breaking up after a couple of usages.

The functional trainer Tonal comes with a membership that is a part of the smart functional trainer exercise, giving you access to unlimited accounts and a library to guide your workouts.

After putting it to the test, the main drawback is that it is a new technology that will take some time for you to get used to.

12. Best Functional Trainer for Versatility: Force USA G20 All-in-One Trainer 

The Force USA G20 functional trainer is the most versatile functional trainer, with over 400 exercises to do and the functionality of 14 different machines, making it unparalleled compared to others.

Some of the features that the best functional trainers have and, this one also is the 2:1 pulley ratio, giving you a smooth and natural motion during training, 30 attachments, and a total of 578 pounds of the weight stack, making it perfect for all fitness goals and levels.

Additional features of this functional trainer include a built-in exercise chart, band peg comparability, pull-up bar, heavy-duty storage hooks, and weight plate storage sleeves.

Based on our observations, the weight can be a bit overkill for most individuals.

What Is a Functional Trainer?

A functional trainer is a broad term for gym equipment that allows you to do functional movements. Since most of these require you to move your body through all different ranges of motion, they are weight stacks and dual cable pulleys.

Because they are adjustable, you can use a functional trainer to train almost every muscle imaginable.

With it, you can do all sorts of full-body workouts.

You can also do more functional exercises, but most people use them for more isolation-based movements.

Functional trainers are amongst the more expensive pieces of fitness equipment. 

Some modern companies are making more affordable choices for home gym owners but they are still pricey for most.

How Did We Rank and Compare the Best Functional Trainers

The factors we considered to rank and compare the best functional trainers are listed below.

• Build quality
• Assembly
• Size
• Cables and pulleys
• Pulley ratio
• Weight stacks
• Resistance
• Attachments and accessories
• Versatility
• Design
• Warranty
• Price

I had several functional trainers to pick from, so here’s how I narrowed down our final list to just 12. 

Build Quality

Since they are very expensive, each of the functional trainers that made the list has a good build quality. 

The ones that have thicker steel frames have higher scores.  

Some functional trainers that are more rugged remain stable, while cheaper options tend to shake more.

Assembly

After assembling every functional trainer from the lost, I can tell you that these are not the easiest fitness equipment to assemble.

Functional trainers that were partially assembled came with proper instructions or had no parts misinforming scored higher.

Size

Besides the budget, one of the main reasons that prevent home gym owners from getting a functional trainer is its size. 

Most people have limited space that they are willing to use for a home gym.

The best functional trainer is a thin line between being too big to fit in most home gyms and being too small and not providing a full range of movement. 

Also, compact functional trainers are a preferred option if they are not over-compromising in terms of the range of motion and weight.

Cables and Pulleys

Most functional trainers come with just two pulleys, one on each side. 

In my opinion, functional trainers that feature additional pulleys to allow you to use them for pull-downs and rows are better.

Also, the overall performance and experience were taken into account. 

The ease of adjustment and smoothness of the cables were also considered.

Pulley Ratio

Some functional trainers can have a pulley ratio as big as 4:1, meaning that 200 pounds only give you 50 pounds of effective resistance. 

Weight Stacks

I focused on effective resistance and not the maximum weight because then this would more accurately measure what the resistance of a functional trainer is.

Another thing that I took into consideration was the weight increments. 

Weight stack, which went up smaller amounts and had more adjustments overall, scored higher.

Resistance

People’s resistance levels can vary a lot, but I want to ensure that each machine possesses versatility for experienced lifters as well as beginners.

Attachments and Accessories

Attachments are not expensive on their own, but when you are buying several of them, the prices can add up pretty quickly.

I prefer functional trainers that have large attachment bundles.

Accessories like pull-up bars, weight add-ons, and functional trainers with multi-grip bars so you can perform different styled pull-ups.

Versatility

For versatility, the main thing that I focused on is if the functional trainer came with additional machines.

Also, functional trainers that have more options for setting up the pulleys scored higher.

Design

A functional trainer shouldn’t only look nice and have a design that makes it functional. 

By that, I mean parts that can get in the way of certain exercises or that using them create difficulty at any given moment.

Warranty

With few oddities, most functional trainers will have a lifetime frame warranty.

Given the high price of a functional trainer, I would suggest researching on your own the terms and conditions of your warranty.

Price

The reality is that the best functional trainers will cost you upward of $2000. 

While comparing all of them side to side, I sought out those that provided the best value for the price.

So a premium functional trainer is not necessarily a better option when you take into account the features and specs. 

What to Look For in a Functional Trainer

The things you should look for in a functional trainer are listed below.

• Equipment size (height, weight, & footprint)
• Cables and pulleys
• Durability
• Attachments and accessories
• Weight stacks and resistance
• Pulley ratio
• Price
• Warranty
• Height adjustments
• Ease of use
• Ease of assembly

Before you choose to get the best functional trainer for yourself, you need to know about some basic features of each machine. 

To help you save time, I made a list of the most important things you should consider.

Equipment Size (Height, Weight, & Footprint)

You would be surprised how many people don’t check the size and then realize that it won’t fit in their home gym.

Even a compact functional trainer can take up a lot of space compared to other strength training equipment, so it is important to check if it will fit your space.

Also, most functional trainers weigh around 600-800 pounds once assembled. 

The last thing you would want to do is try to move it once you build it.

Cables and Pulleys

Pulleys and cables on functional trainers are made from different materials, with fiberglass being the most commonly used and aluminum on some higher-end ones.

On each company’s website, you should see the materials out of which pulleys and cable are made, and if by any chance you can’t find it, try reaching out to their customer service.

Durability

A functional trainer is durable, similar to squat racks and barbells.

If you buy a brand new good functional trainer, you can expect it to last a lifetime with minimal maintenance.

The frame will last the longest, but be aware of the wear and tear of pulleys and cables.  

Attachments and Accessories

Most functional trainers come with a pair of short handles. 

Others come with some additional features like an ankle cuff, curl bar, D-handles, straight bar, short and long bar, grip pull-up bar, and others.

These will make your functional trainer machines more versatile than they are without them.

Weight Stacks and Resistance

Best functional trainers will most likely use weight stacks.

Nonetheless, this incredible feature ensures you won’t have to purchase additional weight plates. 

Regarding the weight stacks, some use single-weight stack systems, while others use dual-weight stacks.

I would always recommend a dual-weight stack since it allows you to work both sides of the machines separately, giving each side of your body the same functional training.

Using dual-weight stacks will give you the ability so two persons can work out simultaneously.

The most common weight stacks are 150lb, 165lb, or 200lb variations. 

Also, most functional trainers use a 2:1 ratio, which means 150 lb weight stacks will feel like 75 pounds.

Pulley Ratio

The most common pulley ratio is 2:1, which means that 60 pounds give you 30 pounds of resistance. 

There are some exceptions, like machines with a pulley ratio of 4:1. 

It is worth mentioning that even functional trainers with weight plates and plate-loaded trainers will also have a pulley ratio.

Price

When it comes to the price of a functional trainer and which one you should get, that will highly depend on your budget.

The cheaper option will come with fewer attachments and a shorter warranty, so you have to add all pluses and minuses to see which one is the perfect fit for your budget.

Warranty

For most, the warranty is one of the crucial aspects when it comes to getting a functional trainer.

A good warranty will protect you from any manufacturer’s defects and any other problems that could occur during machine usage.

Most functional trainers have a lifetime frame warranty. 

Height Adjustments

Adjusting the height of a pulley system could be essential to making the machine comfortable for you, so you perform a full-body workout with it.

Ensure that the strength training equipment you are getting can provide you with enough options to work out all the body parts you want.

However, if you are tall, ensure the machine has enough height to be the right functional trainer for your requirements.

Ease of Use

When you get a functional trainer, you will most likely want to use it with minimal messing around between exercises or sets.

Most better functional trainers have a spring-loaded lock, allowing you to place a pulley in a position much easier.

You should consider picking a weight stack option over weighted plates. 

Weight stacks are much easier to change when you are mid-set.

Ease of Assembly

While most of the functional trainers on this are straightforward to assemble, they are extremely heavy, and it isn’t easy to move them around.

Make sure that the functional trainer comes with excellent instruction and even better video instruction to assemble your new gym equipment.

What Are the Benefits of a Functional Trainer?

The benefits of a functional trainer are listed below.

• Increases workout versatility
• Offers additional attachment options
• Increases safety
• Supports rehabilitation process
• Offers lots of value to a home gym
• Boosts convenience
• Offers great value for money

The benefits of a functional trainer are that it will increase the versatility of your training and offer a lot of variety for your home gym. Also, with an insane amount of attachment that you can put on, you can do a full-body workout with just a functional trainer.

Increases Workout Versatility

The biggest benefit that functional trainers offer so that you can work any muscle in your body with just some minor adjustments. 

The number of movements you can do with it is incredible for each body part.

Offers Additional Attachment Options

A functional trainer cable machine gives you the ability to use various attachments on it. 

Some notable attachments are triceps rope, pull-up bar, straight bar, grip pull-up bar, and ankle cuff.

Increases Safety

The thing about functional trainers is that they are extremely beginner-friendly and among the safest machines that you can purchase.

Unlike any weight training exercise that involves having a spotter and proper form, with the functional trainer, you don’t need both since they are easy to use.

All you need to do is move a pin to the desired weight and attach the attachment you want. 

Supports Rehabilitation Process

Functional trainers were first designed to mimic most of the movements that physical therapists suggest for their clients.

The high degree of variety, constant resistance of the cables, and ease of use make it a great tool for people recovering from injuries.

Offers Lots of Value to a Home Gym

It may sound like a stretch, but compared to alternatives, these functional trainers are cost-effective.

Nonetheless, when you can work almost every muscle in your body with it in nearly every way you want to, you begin to see the value in a functional trainer. 

Boosts Convenience

You can have a complete full-body workout tool at your disposal at any point throughout the day. 

Additionally, you don’t need to wait in line for quite some time just so you can do some quick cable raises.

Offers Great Value for Money

When you take into account how much your monthly gym membership costs you, the amount of time you lose till you get to the gym, and some other expenses, you can see that a high-quality functional trainer can be a great investment for the future. 

Who Should Buy a Functional Trainer?

People that are fitness enthusiasts should buy a functional trainer. If you are passionate about fitness and want variety in your workouts, a functional trainer can give you a wide range of exercises to perform.

It will allow for functional movements that imitate real-life activities and sports, enabling you to improve your stability, athleticism, and strength.

Who Shouldn’t Buy a Functional Trainer?

People who have limited space shouldn’t buy a functional trainer. A functional trainer may not be the best choice if you have limited space in your home gym.

You should consider alternatives like resistance bands or free weights that take up less space.

Related Articles:

• Functional Training Equipment: Ultimate Guide

FAQs

Is a Functional Trainer Worth It?

Yes, the functional trainer is worth it. The most significant reason to get a functional trainer in your home gym is that it allows you to execute an unimaginably immense number of exercises. 

What Is the Difference Between a Home Gym and a Functional Trainer?

The difference between a home gym and a functional trainer is that functional trainers consume less space. It comprises one or two weight stacks that connect to two adjustable pulleys; therefore, you can make different motions of exercises.

Can You Build Muscle With a Functional Trainer?

Yes, you can build muscle with a functional trainer. You can do full-body workouts with a functional trainer machine and target several muscle groups.

Is a Functional Trainer Better for Building or Toning Muscles?

A functional trainer is better for toning muscles. This approach will help you achieve a lean physique and promote your overall strength.

How Long Do Functional Trainers Take To Assemble?

It takes a couple of hours to assemble functional trainers. You can expect anywhere from an hour to 5-6 hours if you get a more complicated option.

Can You Do Functional Training Every Day?

Yes, you can do functional training every day. Since functional movements replicate your everyday activities, you can frequently do functional strength training workouts without injury concerns.

What Does a Functional Trainer Do?

A functional trainer allows you to do multi-joint or isolated movements with one piece of gym equipment. They are perfect for iso-lateral exercises that work one side of your body at a time.

What if I Cannot Afford a Functional Trainer?

If you cannot afford a functional trainer, invest in buying adjustable dumbbells. With adjustable dumbbells, you can do exercises similar to the ones with a functional trainer, like rows, presses, and squats.

What Is the Difference Between 2 1 and 1 1 Functional Trainer?

The difference between 2:1 and 1:1 functional trainers is the pulley ratio. A 2:1 ratio means that 40 pounds feel like 20 pounds. 

How Long Do Functional Trainers Last?

Functional trainers last 15 to 20 years. This depends on the materials used in its making and whether you care for it.

Are Functional Trainers Safe for Seniors?

Yes, functional trainers are safe for seniors. With just a functional trainer, older adults can safely train multiple muscle groups to improve their health overall.

Why Should I Buy a Functional Trainer?

You should buy a functional trainer so you can do all kinds of resistance training, like strength, endurance, power, speed, and hypertrophy. A functional trainer features options to isolate single muscle groups or to perform a full-body workout with resistance.

What Is the Best Functional Trainer?

The best functional trainer is the Titan Fitness functional trainer.

Furthermore, the high-grade steel construction will ensure longevity and durability, allowing you to push your own limits during intense strength training. 

It has 200 pounds of resistance in 10-pound increments, so you can do various exercises to target several muscle groups.

Also, Titan Fitness functional trainer features accessories like a rope handle, ankle strap, and short and long bar.

Please let me know which functional trainer from the list best suits your needs.