Updated March 2025
Building the perfect home gym? You're making a smart move! But choosing the right equipment can be overwhelming. Two powerhouse machines often top the list: Functional Trainers and Smith Machines.
But what if you could have the best of BOTH worlds in ONE amazing piece of equipment?! 🤯
Enter the Functional Trainer with Smith Machine combo! This game-changing hybrid machine is transforming home gyms, offering unparalleled versatility and workout potential in a surprisingly space-efficient package.
Before we reveal the top combo machines on the market, let's understand why this dynamic duo is a must-have for serious home fitness enthusiasts.
Get ready to revolutionize your workouts!
Functional Trainer vs. Smith Machine: Understanding the Powerhouses
Functional Trainer: Your Versatile Workout Weapon
Imagine a machine that lets you perform countless exercises for every muscle group – that's a functional trainer in a nutshell! It's your all-in-one station for a truly total-body workout.
- Cable-Based Versatility: Utilizes adjustable cables and pulleys to allow for a HUGE range of exercises, mimicking natural movement patterns.
- Functional Movements: Focuses on compound exercises that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, improving real-world strength and coordination.
- Unlimited Exercise Variety: From presses and rows to curls, extensions, rotations, and more – the exercise possibilities are virtually endless!
- Space-Saving Design: Typically compact compared to having multiple individual machines.
Smith Machine: Your Safe & Controlled Barbell Powerhouse
The Smith machine brings the power of barbell training to your home gym with an added layer of safety and controlled movement.
- Guided Barbell Motion: Features a barbell fixed within vertical rails, allowing for only vertical movement. This provides stability and control, especially for heavier lifts.
- Enhanced Safety: Built-in safety catches allow you to safely rack the weight at any point, ideal for solo workouts and pushing your limits.
- Perfect for Compound Exercises: Excellent for squats, bench press, shoulder press, lunges, and rows – foundational exercises for building strength and muscle.
- Great for Beginners & Advanced Lifters: Provides support for beginners learning form and allows advanced lifters to focus on muscle engagement without balance concerns.
Why Combine a Functional Trainer AND a Smith Machine? Unleash the Synergy!
Individually, functional trainers and Smith machines are fantastic pieces of equipment.
But combine them, and you unlock a whole new level of workout potential!
Here's why a combo machine is a smart investment for your home gym:
The Ultimate Versatility: Get the limitless exercise options of a functional trainer AND the barbell power of a Smith machine – all in one compact unit! No muscle group left behind!
- Space-Saving SUPERSTAR: Instead of needing two separate machines that take up valuable floor space, a combo unit streamlines your gym setup, maximizing your workout area. Perfect for home gyms of any size!
- Enhanced Safety & Confidence: Benefit from the Smith machine's safety features for barbell exercises, while enjoying the free-motion versatility of the functional trainer cables. Train confidently and push your limits safely at home!
- Cost-Effective Solution: Often more economical than purchasing separate functional trainer and Smith machine units. Get more bang for your buck and a complete gym solution in one purchase!
- Seamless Workout Transitions: Easily switch between cable exercises and barbell movements without moving to different machines. Streamline your workout flow and maximize your training efficiency.
A functional trainer with Smith machine combo truly gives you the best of both worlds, providing everything you need for a comprehensive, effective, and enjoyable home workout experience.
Finding YOUR Perfect Combo: Key Factors to Consider
Ready to find the best functional trainer with Smith machine for your home gym? Here are the crucial factors to consider when making your choice:
- Your Budget: Combo machines range in price. Determine your budget upfront to narrow your options. We'll showcase options across different price points.
- Your Exercise Needs: What exercises do you currently do or want to do? Ensure the machine you choose accommodates your favorite workouts and fitness goals. List out your must-have exercises!
- Available Space: Measure your workout area! Combo machines are space-saving, but still require a designated footprint. Make sure the machine fits comfortably in your home gym space. Consider both floor space and ceiling height.
- Ease of Use & Adjustability: Look for machines that are user-friendly, with smooth cable adjustments, easily adjustable Smith machine bar catches, and intuitive setup. Consider ease of switching between exercises.
- Build Quality & Durability: Invest in a well-built, sturdy machine from a reputable brand that will last for years of intense workouts. Look for heavy-gauge steel construction and quality components. Check warranty details!
- Features & Attachments: Consider included attachments (pull-up bars, dip stations, etc.) and optional upgrades to maximize versatility and value.
Top 5 Functional Trainer with Smith Machine Combos for Home Use (2024 Review)
To help you navigate the options, we've rounded up five of the best functional trainer with Smith machine combo units currently available, highlighting their key features, pros, and cons:
1. Evolution Corner Multifunctional Trainer with Smith Press (CXT-225) - Premium Corner Design
Overview: The Evolution CXT-225 is a premium, corner-designed powerhouse packed with features for serious home and even light commercial use. Its unique corner footprint makes it incredibly space-efficient without sacrificing workout variety.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Corner Design: Maximizes space utilization, fitting neatly into room corners. Perfect for smaller gyms or dedicated corners in larger rooms.
- Triple Cable Stations: Three separate cable stations with dual weight stacks provide incredible versatility for simultaneous or independent cable exercises.
- Smith Press with 15 Bar Catches: Offers a safe and adjustable Smith machine for barbell work, accommodating various heights and exercises.
- Fixed Lat and Low Row Stations: Dedicated stations for lat pulldowns and low rows ensure proper form and efficient back and arm workouts.
- Rotating Steel Accessory Rack: Integrated, rotating storage keeps attachments organized and easily accessible.
- Adjustable Cable Ratio (1:2 or 1:4): Allows for extended cable travel, ideal for taller users and a wider range of exercises.
- Robust Construction & Lifetime Warranty (Home Use): Built to last with a lifetime warranty for home users, providing peace of mind and long-term value.
Pros:
- Space-saving corner design
- Extremely versatile with triple cable stations and Smith press
- High-quality construction and lifetime warranty (home)
- Rotating accessory rack for organized storage
Cons:
- Pricey: Higher price point (around $6000+) may be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers.
- Heavy & Difficult to Move: Its robust build makes it heavy and less portable once assembled.
Ideal For: Serious home gym enthusiasts, those with limited space who don't want to compromise on features, users seeking a premium, long-lasting machine. Great for corner placement.
2. Mi7Smith Functional Training System - Streamlined & Feature-Rich
Overview: The Mi7Smith is a sleek, feature-packed training system that combines a functional trainer and Smith machine with a focus on smooth operation and user-friendly design. Its compact footprint and integrated features make it a top contender for home gyms.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Complete Training System: Offers a comprehensive workout solution with functional trainer cables, Smith machine, and integrated features.
- Dual Weight Stacks (150 lbs, Upgradeable to 200 lbs): Provides ample resistance for most users, with upgradeable stacks for advanced lifters.
- Streamlined Design: Conceals much of the hardware for a clean, aesthetically pleasing look in your home gym.
- 360-Degree Rotating Columns: Cable columns rotate freely for unrestricted movement and exercise versatility.
- Integrated Adjustment System & One-Handed Accessory Connectors: Designed for quick and easy adjustments and accessory changes, streamlining your workouts.
- Polyurethane Covered Rack-Outs: Reduces noise during Smith machine workouts for quieter home use.
- Flip’n’Dip Technology with Multiple Pull-Up Grips: Innovative pull-up bar with various grip options, including rock grips for grip strength training.
- Convenience Features: Includes water bottle holder and accessory rack for organized workout space.
- Free Exercise App: Provides exercise suggestions and workout guidance to maximize machine use.
Pros:
- Extremely versatile with numerous pulley points and exercise options
- Smooth and quiet operation
- User-friendly design with easy adjustments and accessory changes
- Compact footprint
- Integrated pull-up bar with multiple grip options
- Free exercise app for workout guidance
Cons:
- High Price Point: One of the more expensive options (around $7700), potentially out of reach for some budgets.
Ideal For: Users seeking a premium, feature-rich, and aesthetically pleasing combo machine. Those who value smooth operation, user-friendly design, and comprehensive workout versatility. Great for users of all fitness levels.
3. Ntaifitness 5-in-1 Combo Smith Machine (THEARCHY-2112) - Value & Multi-Functionality
Overview: The Ntaifitness THEARCHY-2112 is a budget-friendly powerhouse that packs FIVE essential workout stations into one machine! If you're looking for maximum value and multi-functionality without breaking the bank, this is a top contender.
Key Features & Benefits:
- 5-in-1 Combo Powerhouse: Combines a power rack, Smith machine, cable pulley system, core trainer, and chin-up station in a single unit – incredible value and versatility!
- Power Rack Functionality: Integrated power rack allows for free weight barbell exercises alongside the Smith machine.
- Self-Aligning Linear-Bearing Smith Press System: Ensures smooth and safe Smith machine operation.
- Cable Pulley System: Provides functional training versatility with adjustable height positions to target various muscle groups from different angles.
- Core Trainer: Integrated landmine attachment for core strengthening exercises.
- Chin-Up Station: Built-in chin-up bar adds upper body pulling exercises to your routine.
- Band Pegs for Resistance Variation: Includes band pegs for adding resistance bands to exercises, increasing intensity or providing assistance.
- Heavy-Duty Steel Frame (Commercial Grade): Built with robust, commercial-grade steel for durability and stability, despite its more affordable price.
- Affordable Price Point: Significantly more budget-friendly (under $2600) than many other combo machines, offering exceptional value for the features.
Pros:
- Unbeatable value for money - 5 machines in 1!
- Extremely versatile and space-saving
- Commercial-grade steel frame for durability
- Includes power rack for free weight exercises
- Band pegs for added resistance/assistance
- Significantly more affordable than premium options
Cons:
- Limited Warranties (except 10-year frame): Shorter warranties on parts compared to higher-end models.
Ideal For: Home gym owners on a budget who want maximum versatility and features for their money. Excellent for those who want a combination of Smith machine, functional trainer, and power rack exercises in one space-saving unit. Great for users of all levels seeking value.
4. Force USA G6 All-in-One Trainer - Feature-Packed & Compact
Overview: The Force USA G6 is a feature-rich, all-in-one trainer that packs an incredible amount of workout versatility into a surprisingly compact footprint. If you want a comprehensive home gym setup without sacrificing too much space, the G6 is a fantastic option.
Key Features & Benefits:
- 9 Strength Training Machines in 1: Combines functional trainer, power rack, dip station, chin-up station, Smith machine, low row, leg press, core trainer, and suspension trainer – virtually a complete gym in one unit!
- Over 150 Possible Exercises: Provides an ENORMOUS exercise library for full-body training and endless workout variety.
- Dual 220 lb Weight Stacks: Offers substantial resistance for challenging workouts, suitable for intermediate to advanced lifters.
- 17 Included Attachments: Comes with a wide array of attachments right out of the box, maximizing exercise options without extra purchases.
- 2:1 Cable Pulley Ratio: Provides smooth cable motion and extended cable travel for functional movements.
- Compact Footprint: Despite its extensive features, the G6 is designed to be relatively compact and space-efficient for home use.
- Pin- and Plate-Loaded Trainer: Combines pin-loaded weight stacks with plate-loaded options for versatile resistance training.
Pros:
- Incredible versatility – 9 machines in 1 with 150+ exercises
- Compact design for home gyms
- Generous weight stacks (2 x 220 lbs)
- Includes a vast array of attachments (17!)
- Solid construction
Cons:
- Mid-Range Price: Priced in the mid-range (around $4500), it's more expensive than budget options but offers significantly more features.
Ideal For: Home gym owners who want a truly comprehensive, all-in-one training solution in a relatively compact space. Great for users who value exercise variety and want a feature-rich machine without needing to purchase numerous separate attachments. Suits intermediate to advanced users.
5. Marcy Smith Multifunction Rack and Training Station - Affordable & Feature-Rich Entry Point
Overview: The Marcy Smith Multifunction Rack and Training Station is an exceptionally affordable and feature-rich option, making it a fantastic entry point into the world of combo functional trainer/Smith machines. Perfect for budget-conscious beginners and intermediate users who want a lot of functionality without breaking the bank.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Highly Affordable: Priced under $1800, making it one of the most budget-friendly combo machines available.
- Multifunctional Workout Station: Combines a Smith machine, squat rack, multi-grip pull-up bars, power tower features (dip station, leg raise station), utility bench, and cable pulley system – amazing versatility for the price!
- Utility Bench Included: Comes with a dedicated utility bench, expanding exercise options right out of the box.
- Multi-Grip Pull-Up Bars: Offers various pull-up grip options for comprehensive upper back and arm training.
- Power Tower Features: Integrated dip station and hanging leg raise station for bodyweight training.
- Rowing Cable: Includes a low cable pulley for seated rows, targeting upper back and biceps.
- Durable Pulley System: Provides smooth cable motion for crossover and other cable exercises.
- Resistance Band Attachment Points: Allows for adding resistance bands to pull-up bars for assisted exercises or increased challenge.
- High Bench Capacity (600 lbs): Robust bench supports heavier loads for bench press and other exercises.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable price point
- Incredible versatility for the price – packed with features
- Includes utility bench
- Multi-grip pull-up bar and power tower features
- Rowing cable for added exercises
- High bench weight capacity
Cons:
- Some Quality Concerns Reported: Some user reviews mention occasional issues with incorrect parts during assembly. (Important to check reviews and assembly instructions carefully).
- May be less robust than higher-end models: At this price point, materials and build quality may be less heavy-duty compared to premium machines.
Ideal For: Budget-conscious home gym owners, beginners and intermediate users seeking maximum functionality at an affordable price. Great for those who want a versatile station that covers a wide range of exercises without a huge investment.
Unlock Your Home Gym Potential with a Combo Machine!
Investing in a functional trainer with Smith machine combo is a game-changer for your home gym. It's the ultimate solution for maximizing workout versatility, saving space, and achieving your fitness goals efficiently.
Whether you're a beginner just starting your fitness journey or a seasoned lifter looking to upgrade your home setup, a combo machine offers incredible value and endless workout possibilities.
Research shows that combining functional training with guided resistance exercises, like those offered by these machines, can significantly enhance strength and muscle development [1]. Fitness experts also praise the safety and versatility of Smith machines and functional trainers for home use [2]. Explore the options, consider your needs and budget, and get ready to transform your home workouts forever! 💪
Ready to explore these amazing combo machines and other home gym equipment? Check out our comprehensive gym equipment catalog and our specialized functional trainer and Smith machine selections.
Have questions or need expert advice on choosing the right equipment for your home gym? Contact us – our fitness experts are here to help you build the home gym of your dreams!
| 🏋️ Model | 💲 Price | 📏 Space Efficiency | 💪 Weight Capacity | 🎯 Best For | 🔗 Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evolution CXT-225 | 💲6000+ | 🔹 Compact, Corner Fit | ✔ High | 🏡 Advanced home users | View |
| Force USA G6 | 💲4500 | 🔹 Space-efficient | ✔ High | 🔥 Intermediate lifters | View |
References
- NCBI: Progression of volume load and muscular adaptation during resistance exercise - A study comparing the efficacy of guided resistance and functional training for strength and hypertrophy.
- Muscle & Fitness: The Top 8 Mass-Building Machines - Expert insights on the versatility and safety of Smith machines and functional trainers.
- Healthline: Why Functional Fitness Is Important for Everyone - Evidence-based overview of functional training benefits for strength and coordination.
