The Best Smith Machines for Your Home Gym
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The Smith machine first arrived on the fitness scene in the 1950s when fitness expert Jack LaLanne had the idea to invent a machine that could allow people to safely squat without a spotter. One night at dinner, he shared the idea with bodybuilder Rudy Smith. With LaLanne’s permission, Smith created the machine and enlisted equipment builder Paul Martin to improve the design. Smith worked with gym chain developer Vic Tanny to get this new equipment in gyms and the machine took off in the fitness community.
Today, the Smith machine continues to be a popular option for lifting without a spotter and you don’t need a gym membership to enjoy its benefits. This equipment is a great home gym option that provides an extra layer of protection for your bench presses, squats, deadlifts, rows, lunges and more. Whether you’re looking for an all-in-one home gym or simply looking for a budget-friendly Smith machine, our guide will connect you to the best Smith machine for your needs.
Our Picks for the Best Smith Machine:
- Best All-in-One Smith Machine: Force USA G10 Pro All-in-One Trainer
- Best Budget Smith Machine: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-XF920020
- Best 1:1 Pulley Ratio Smith Machine: Force USA G9 All-in-One Trainer
- Best 2:1 Pulley Ratio Smith Machine: Force USA G3 All-in-One Trainer
- Best Smith Machine with Bench: Marcy Diamond 9010 Smith Cage
- Best Smith Machine on Amazon: Valor Fitness BE-11
Best All-in-One Smith Machine: Force USA G10 Pro All-in-One Trainer
Force USA
Key features:
- Weight capacity: Unit weight rating is 992 pounds
- Rackable capacity: Smith machine weight rating is 772 pounds and chin-up weight rating is 772 pounds
- Dimensions: 79.5 inches (width) by 74 inches (depth) x 87.5 inches (height)
- Attachments included: Two J-hooks, low row footplate, dip handle, suspension trainer, front safety support bars, Smith safeties and adjustable hooks, lat pulldown bar, knee anchor, two single nylon cable D handles, two adjustable nylon cable handles, tricep rope, tricep V bar, short tricep bar, revolving dual cable straight bar, close grip row handle, four extension chains, six Olympic lock collars, four band pegs, six carabiners, eight plate holders, two barbell storages, weight storage hooks
- Warranty: Limited lifetime on frame, five years on cables and pulleys, six months on upholstery and attachments
- Who should and shouldn’t buy: Great for those who want a unit that can consolidate multiple pieces of commercial gym equipment into one machine with a smaller footprint. Not a great option for those on a budget.
- Price: $3,499.99 and up
If you are looking for a comprehensive Smith machine with multiple functions that can be upgraded with a wide variety of additional parts, this Force USA all-in-one trainer will help you optimize and streamline your workout. The Force USA G10 All-In-One Trainer is a highly customizable unit that combines eight strength training stations with 18 attachments into one convenient machine, allowing you to perform over 375 exercise moves.
The basic machine includes eight strength training options: a power rack, functional trainer, low row attachment, multi-grip chin-up/pull up station, dip station, suspension trainer and Smith machine. One of the unique aspects of the machine is its interchangeable cable ratio system that allows you to easily switch between a pulley ratio of 2:1 to 4:1. This makes the equipment more accessible to users of different levels.
The G10’s Smith machine fixed barbell is compatible with Olympic weight plates and can support up to 772 pounds. Smith machine features include commercial grade guide rails, linear bearing, reinforced bushings and 14 racking levels. This Smith machine is a great strength building option for when you don’t have a spotter since it comes with an adjustable spring-loaded safety, safe lock and release mechanisms and a safety catch.
In addition to the eight initial stations, Force USA offers a wide range of upgrades including benches, bars, bumpers and more strength training stations.
Reviewers on the Force USA website love this machine for its versatility. One reviewer on the Force USA website says, “You really can target every single muscle group with this machine.”
Pros:
- Highly customizable and versatile for a full body workout
- All-in-one features are space-saving
- Includes patent-pending dual pulley system
Cons:
- Upgrades are expensive
- Self-assembly is a big job (Professional assembly is an additional $599.99)
Best Budget Smith Machine: Sunny Health and Fitness SF-XF920020
Sunny Health & Fitness
Key Features:
- Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds
- Rackable capacity: 1,000 pounds
- Dimensions: 43.1 inches (length) by 74.3 inches (width) by 88.6 inches (height)
- Attachments included: Dual J-hooks, resistance band handles (resistance bands sold separately), multi-grip pull up bar, dual weight plate storage posts, 15-pound barbell, safety clips, spotter blocks
- Warranty: One year on structural frame, 180 days on other parts and components
- Who should and shouldn’t buy: Best for beginner and intermediate lifters on a budget. Also best for those with standard plates. Advanced lifters may want a more heavy duty machine.
- Price: $699.99
Sunny Health and Fitness is known for its budget-friendly workout equipment, and at only $699.99, this unit is a great option for those looking for an affordable Smith Machine. This equipment offers the basics you need to achieve moves like squats, bench presses (bench not included) and pull ups. The Smith Machine Squat Rack Essential Series comes with a multi-grip pull up bar, 15 pound barbell with safety clips and weight plate storage. The machine also features 21 adjustable height settings.
This Smith unit is designed to allow you to move the barbell in a smooth vertical direction. Spotter blocks help ensure a safer experience and built-in connecting pieces give you the option to bolt the machine to the floor for extra stability. Note that the machine should be lubricated before the first use. If you upgrade to heavier weights, be sure to keep in mind that the squat bar is compatible with one-inch diameter weight plates only.
While this Smith Machine comes with limited attachments, it can be used with a variety of Sunny Health and Fitness upgrades to customize your workout needs. For example, resistance band handles allow you to incorporate resistance training into your routine. With your own weight bench, you can perform shoulder and bench presses. The included J-hooks give you the option to use another barbell for free weights. SF-XF920020 is compatible with the entire Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Power Rack Accessories Collection, which is filled with upgrade options such as the Lat Pulldown Pulley System Attachment ($299.98), Olympic Bar Holder Attachment ($39.98) and Landmine Attachment ($49.98).
Reviewers on Amazon say that this is a quality machine for an affordable price and that it is easy to assemble. One Amazon reviewer says, “Great value, works fantastic, absolutely perfect function for entry level price.”
Pros:
- Great value for an affordable price
- Easy self-assembly
- Compatible with a wide-range of Sunny Health and Fitness accessories
Cons:
- Short warranty
- Only comes with basic attachments
Best 1:1 Pulley Ratio Smith Machine: Force USA G9 All in One Trainer
Force USA
Key features:
- Weight capacity: Unit has a weight rating at 992 pounds
- Rackable capacity: Both Smith machine and chin-up have a weight rating of 772 pounds.
- Dimensions: 78.5 inches (width) by 57.5 inches (depth) x 88 inches (height)
- Attachments included: Multi-grip chin-up bar, suspension training ring, J-hooks, safety spotter arms, land mine and handle, functional training bar, lat pull-down bar, small grip frame bar, two adjustable nylon stirrup handles, pull-down rope, multi-grip dip handles, leg press and low row foot plate, pull-down knee holder, low row foot plate, barbell storage, two Olympic lock collars, six weight plate holders, six Olympic spring clips, one extension chain, two spring snap clips
- Warranty: Limited lifetime on frame, 10 years on cables and pulleys and one year on upholstery and attachments
- Who should and shouldn’t buy: This is a great option for those who want a versatile all-in-one machine and prefer a 1:1 cable pulley ratio. It’s also a good fit for those who want the G10, but would prefer a slightly more affordable option. It’s still a pricey machine, so it’s not a good option for those on a strict budget.
- Price: $2,999.99 and up
If you want an all-in-one Smith machine and prefer a 1:1 cable pulley system ratio, this Force USA unit may be the perfect fit. The Force USA G9 is similar to the Force USA G10 with a few differences, including a lower price point.
Like the Force USA G10, this all-in-one Smith machine trainer combines eight workout stations into one compact machine. Workout options include a power rack, functional trainer, dip station, chin up station, core trainer, low row, leg press and of course, a Smith machine. The built-in commercial grade Smith machine features premium safety catches, a knurled bar for a comfortable grip and a 772 pound weight rating. The Smith equipment is counterbalanced and allows you to lift the true weight of the weight plates you use.
The functional trainer and cable crossover is designed to give you a versatile workout with over 75 exercise options. It is easily adjustable and features a 1:1 pulley cable ratio. Similarly to the unit’s Smith machine, the weight you load on the functional trainer is the same weight you will be lifting. The G10, in comparison, has interchangeable 2:1 and 4:1 cable ratios which is helpful for easily switching resistance levels if you have multiple users with varying skill levels.
This machine comes with 11 attachments with multiple upgrades available for an additional price.
Reviewers on the Force USA website say this is a solid Smith machine and worth the investment. One reviewer shares, “This machine is built like a tank. Very smooth pulley system that is comparable to commercial gyms. Biggest surprise is the Smith machine. Is actually better than what I have used at big gyms.”
Pros:
- All-in-one system gives you a versatile workout
- Can help consolidate the footprint of your equipment
- Counterbalanced Smith machine and 1:1 pulley cable ratio allow you to lift the true weight of your load
- Lower price point than the G10
Cons:
- Upgrades are expensive
- Some reviewers say self-assembly is challenging. (Professional assembly can be added for $599.99)
Best 2:1 Pulley Ratio Smith Machine: Force USA G3 All-in-One Trainer
Force USA
Key features:
- Weight capacity: Unit weight rating is 992 pounds
- Rackable capacity: 772 pounds for Smith machine and 772 for chin up
- Dimensions: 78 inches (width) by 60.5 inches (depth) by 87 inches (height)
- Attachments included: Barbell holder, front safeties, two J-hooks, 4 band pegs, long straight bar, short straight bar, nylon handles, four carabiners, tricep rope, spring collars, core trainer, A-bar row, four attachment storage hooks, six weight plate storage sleeves
- Warranty: Limited lifetime on frame, 10 years on cables and pulleys and one year on upholstery and attachments
- Who should and shouldn’t buy: Great for those with limited workout space that want an all-in-one machine for a more affordable price than the G9 and G10. If you want lots of upgrades, but have a limited budget this may not be the right machine for you.
- Price: $1999.99 and up
Looking for a versatile entry-level Smith machine trainer? Like the G9 and G10, the Force USA G3 combines multiple gym machines into one, making it a convenient space-saving option. It’s also the most affordable Force USA all-in-one trainer on this list, while still providing many of the same benefits as the other models. Gen 2 of the G3 has been updated for 2024, so you are getting a solid up-to-date machine that can support up to 11 strength training stations.
Before we get into the biggest differences between this machine and the G9, let’s take a look at what this unit includes. With the G3, you get a power rack, functional trainer, chin up station, suspension trainer station, landmine core trainer and Smith machine. The Smith machine comes with a knurled barbell that can be used with up to 772 pounds of Olympic weight plates to perform exercises like presses and deadlifts.
One of the key differences between the G9 and the G3 is that while the G9 has a 1:1 pulley ratio, the G3 has a 2:1 ratio. This means that you will be lifting half of your loaded resistance with the G3 rather than the exact resistance. For instance, if you load 200 pounds, with the G3 you would be lifting 100 pounds.
Another variation from the G9 is that the G3 does not come with a leg press, dip station and low row. (You can upgrade to add six strength training stations, including these.) An additional $399.99 will get you the G3 Upgrade Kit which includes a low row footplate, lat pulldown seat, lat pulldown bar, and close grip triangle. Other upgrade options include additional bars, benches and home gym flooring.
Reviewers say that this is high quality equipment that allows you to achieve many of the same exercises that you would do at the gym. “I still can’t believe how much they were able to pack into this machine for such a great price,” says one reviewer on the Force USA website.
Pros:
- A more affordable Force USA trainer option
- Highly customizable for a full body workout
- Space-saving
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it can be wobbly
- Upgrades can be expensive
Best Smith Machine with Bench: Marcy Diamond 9010 Smith Cage
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Key features:
- Weight capacity: 300 pounds maximum user bodyweight
- Rackable capacity: 300 pounds for bar catches, 300 pounds for Smith bar, 600 pounds maximum weight on bench (including weights)
- Dimensions: 95 inches (length) by 79 inches (width) by 86 inches height
- Attachments included: Olympic Smith bar, free weight squat rack, low pulley with a foot rest, Pec deck station, high cable crossovers, Marcy Olympic weight bench with dual function leg developer and preacher curl pad, lat bar, shiver bar, ankle strap, v-bar, triceps rope and pulley cable handles
- Warranty: Two year limited warranty
- Who should and shouldn’t buy: Great option for those looking for a convenient all-in-one home gym solution, including a weight bench. This machine is not a good option for those weighing over 300 pounds or looking for a rackable capacity over 300 pounds.
- Price: $1,499.99
With the Marcy Diamond 9010 Smith Cage, you can select between a Smith workout, free weights, or resistance cable machine exercises to get a full body workout. This cage conveniently comes with a Marcy Olympic weight bench (valued around $224.99), so you have just about everything you need to get started with your workout.
The versatility of this machine is perfect for targeting multiple muscle groups including shoulders, arms, back and legs. The dual upper pulley cable and lower cables allow you to perform exercises like cable crossovers and kneeling lat pulldowns. Use the foot plate with the lower pulley for seated rows. The Smith machine is ideal for squats, bench presses and deadlifts. The adjustable bench features a preacher curl pad and leg developer that can be used to level up your legs and biceps.
As usual, the Smith station of the machine provides a great solution for lifting without a spotter. The Marcy Smith track is created on a seven-degree angle rather than completely vertical to provide a more natural, ergonomic movement. Keep in mind that the Smith machine comes with an Olympic Smith bar which weighs 15 pounds, but does not come with additional weight plates. Marcy 9010G is compatible with one-inch diameter hole standard weight plates and two-inch diameter hole Olympic plates (but mixing them is not recommended). You will also need your own plates such as Marcy bumper plates or iron plates to add resistance to the cable system.
Reviewers on the Dick’s Sporting Goods website say that this machine is a great value that allows you to do many exercises at home that you would typically do at the gym. “Every machine I once used at the gym I now do at home. Excellent Smith Machine,” says one Dick’s Sporting Goods reviewer.
Pros:
- Great value for the price
- Comes with a Marcy Olympic weight bench
- All-in-one design allows you to get a full body workout with multiple stations
Cons:
- Not recommended for users over 300 pounds
- Weight plates not included (but it is compatible with both standard and Olympic plates)
Best Smith Machine on Amazon: Valor Fitness BE-11
Amazon
Key features:
- Weight capacity: Not available
- Rackable capacity: Maximum weight load of 500 pounds
- Dimensions: 53 inches by 85 inches by 80 inches
- Attachments included: Includes knurled weight bar and Olympic weight storage pegs. Other features include spring steel for absorbing shock, case hardened rods and linear bearings.
- Warranty: Two years on frame
- Who should and shouldn’t buy: This is a great piece of equipment for someone who wants a durable straightforward Smith Machine and has limited space. This is not a good option for someone who wants to use standard plates. If you prefer a counter balance, keep in mind that you will have to upgrade the machine for an additional $115.41.
- Price: $1,225.98
If you are looking for a heavy duty Smith machine to allow you to lift safely without a spotter, Valor Fitness BE-11 may be the right unit for you. This 12-gauge steel machine is made to be durable and stable, supporting a maximum weight load of 500 pounds. The machine features a three-degree reverse pitch, designed to provide a smooth, ergonomic and secure motion, free from carriage resistance.
The Valor Fitness BE-11 comes with a knurled steel bar that weighs 36 pounds. It is compatible with two-inch Olympic plates and includes four Olympic plate storage pegs. Chrome safety hooks catch onto chrome pegs to help you achieve a safe Smith machine workout. (While lifting you would rotate your wrists to bring the bar back and get the safety hooks to latch into place.) Additional safety features include spring steel to absorb shock and safety brackets.
While the Valor Fitness BE-11 is not an all-in-one machine with multiple stations like some of the other options on this list, this is a solid unit great for challenging Smith machine exercises including lifts, bench presses, squats and more. Reviewers on Amazon say this is a well designed machine with a good value for the price. One Amazon reviewer shares, “1. This is a good product and worth the price. 2. True it doesn’t come with counterbalance for the weight of the bar, but that isn’t necessary at all.” For an additional price, you can upgrade with the Valor Fitness BE-11CB Counter Balance which offsets the weight of the bar and includes cables.
Pros:
- Heavy duty construction supports a weight load of up to 500 pounds
- Reviewers say this machine is a great value for the price
- Smaller footprint is great for those with limited space
Cons:
- Counter balance is not included
- Only compatible with Olympic plates
- Doesn’t include multiple workout stations and attachments like some of the other machines on this list.
What Is a Smith Machine?
A Smith machine is fitness equipment used to safely weight train without a spotter.
“The Smith machine can be seen as the Swiss army knife of the weight room since it allows for several strength training exercises in its fixed vertical path, ranging from squats to overhead pressing movements,” says Mauro S. Maietta, District Fitness Manager at Crunch Fitness.
The machine’s construction includes a barbell that is located within vertical (or slightly angled) steel rails. This allows you to perform exercises by moving the barbell up and down within the steel rails, while preventing you from dangerously dropping the bar backwards or forwards. The Smith machine includes built-in safety features to catch the barbell if you need to drop it. Some Smith machines are all-in-one trainers that include multiple workout stations while others are simply a basic Smith machine unit.
Benefits of a Smith Machine
Benefits of a Smith machine include:
- The machine can be used without a spotter.
- The machine is designed to provide an extra layer of safety and may help prevent injury
- Smith machines can target multiple muscle groups and provide a full body workout
- Smith machines are great for home gyms and available at multiple price points, including budget-friendly options
- They are a good option for beginners
“The Smith machine was designed to help the athlete feel supported and give him or her a greater sense of control and stability when performing an exercise,” says Maietta.
How to Use a Smith Machine
Smith machines are used with exercises that lift weight in a vertical (or nearly vertical) path. They can be used to perform moves including squats, bench presses, lunges, hip thrusts, deadlifts and rows.
The Smith machine includes a barbell that can be used with weight plates to determine your challenge. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the manufacturer instructions and safety features for best use of the specific machine. If you are new to using Smith machines, it’s a good idea to consult with a fitness pro to ensure proper use and form.
“Always start with lighter weights, and get a feel for the range of motion before progressing,” says Maietta.
“The fixed range of motion is not for everyone, so be sure to speak with your local fitness professional, and listen to your body and joints if you feel any discomfort or pain during the movements you have planned,” Maietta advises.
What to Choose the Best Smith Machine for Your Home Gym
Size
Consider the footprint of the machine when determining if the machine is a good fit for your needs. One benefit of Smith machines is that all-in-one trainers are available to consolidate the space needed for multiple workout stations.
Other functions
Many of the home gym Smith machine options on this list are designed to be all-in-one trainers that provide multiple workout functions with one convenient machine. The machine can include stations for a power rack, functional trainer, low row attachment, chin-up/pull ups, dips, suspension trainers and more.
Weight ratio
Smith machines offer pulley systems with varying weight ratios. Weight ratios include 1:1 ratios and 2:1 ratios. A 1:1 ratio means that the weight you load is the exact weight you will be lifting. A 2:1 ratio means that you will be lifting half of the weight you load. For instance, with a 2:1 ratio, if you load 100 pounds, you will be lifting 50 pounds.
Some Force USA Smith machines provide the option to easily switch between 2:1 and 4:1 ratios which is a helpful option when users of various skills are using the same machine.
Weight capacity
Depending on the functions offered by the machine, weight capacities will vary. The weight capacities on this list start at 300 pounds. Be sure to confirm that the machine’s weight capacity can accommodate your needs.
How We Chose the Best Smith Machines
We selected the best Smith machines based on factors including size, weight and rackable capacity, functions, and attachments included with the unit. We took various budgets into consideration, while looking at the quality of the machine for each price. We also considered manufacturer reputation and user reviews.
Smith Machine FAQs
Are there different types of Smith machines?
While Smith machines are designed to perform similar functions, there are different types of Smith machines available. For instance, some Smith machines provide a vertical path for motion while other Smith machines provide a slightly angled path. Some Smith machines may be limited to the Smith machine function, while others are designed to be all-in-one machines with multiple stations for different exercises. Smith machines will vary based on manufacturer.
Can I deadlift on a Smith machine?
Yes, you can deadlift on a Smith machine, but whether you should depends on your skills and ability.
Maietta suggests thinking though the following questions before performing moves on a Smith machine:
- How is your range of motion?
- Do you have the proper form or the requisite mobility to perform these compound moves?
“If you do not know, elicit the expertise of a local fitness professional,” says Maietta.
Can you build muscle with a Smith machine?
Yes, you can build muscle with consistent use of a Smith machine. Smith machines are considered a good strength and muscle training option for beginners or those without a spotter. However, the drawback is that motion is limited to a specific vertical (or slightly angled) path. For sports specific muscle building, some experts prefer free weight exercises.
Is it okay to squat on a Smith machine?
Yes, you can squat with a Smith machine. The safety features such as hooks and stoppers can help provide extra protection for you to do this. Again, be mindful of your abilities and consult with a fitness pro if you are unsure of how to do this safely and with proper form.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a versatile strength-building home gym equipment to achieve a full body workout, a Smith machine can help you achieve your goals. Since the 1950s, this game changing machine has provided gym-goers the option to workout safely without a spotter. Today, there are a wide range of consumer options, allowing you to experience the benefits of the Smith machine in the comfort of your own home gym.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
