Smith machines are a common fixture across commercial gyms. They can basically hold a barbell in place, the rack acting as the spotter. As a result, these machines can make weight training sessions stable and safe.
Rudy Smith, a bodybuilding champion, and Jack LaLanne, a famous fitness guru, invented the machine.
Rudy found performing squats with barbells too difficult as the weight plates would fall off. So to overcome this problem, he, along with Jack, invented the machine that would help them perform a squat safely without a spotter.
Commercial Home Gym Smith Machine
Our Top Recommendation for Smith Machines!
- Weight Capacity: 990 lbs on racks, 770 lbs on the bar
- Warranty: 1-year warranty on all parts
- Color: Blue, Red, Black
- Product Weight: Not mentioned
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Today, with a Smith machine, you can perform a range of exercises, isolate and target muscles, and work out in the solace of the home gym without needing a spotter. It can also be a good starting point for beginners.
So, if you want to add a Smith machine to your home gym, the article will present you with the top five options. We will also look at the machines in detail and buyer considerations to help you find the best Smith machine for your home gym.
Table of Contents
- 5 Best Smith Machines for Home Gym
- Best Overall Smith Machine For Home Gym: Commercial Home Gym Smith Machine
- Best Beginner-Friendly Smith Machine for Home Gym: Major Lutie Smith Machine – SML01
- Best Versatile Smith Machine for Home Gym: Major Lutie Smith Machine – SML07
- Best Budget-Friendly Smith Machine for Home Gym: Marcy Smith Machine with Bench SM-4008
- Best Heavy-Duty Smith Machine For Home Gym: Marcy Smith Machine with Bench SM-4033
- 5 Best Smith Machines For Home Gym Comparison Chart
- What is a Smith Machine For Home Gym?
- What Are The Benefits of Smith Machines?
- What to Look For When Buying Smith Machines?
- Summary
5 Best Smith Machines for Home Gym
- Best Overall Smith Machine for Home Gym: Commercial Home Gym Smith Machine
- Best Beginner-Friendly Smith Machine for Home Gym: Major Lutie Smith Machine – SML01
- Best Versatile Smith Machine for Home Gym: Major Lutie Smith Machine – SML07
- Best Budget-Friendly Smith Machine for Home Gym: Marcy Smith Machine with Bench SM-4008
- Best Heavy-Duty Smith Machine for Home Gym: Marcy Smith Machine with Bench SM-4033
Best Overall Smith Machine For Home Gym: Commercial Home Gym Smith Machine
If you are looking for a commercial-grade Smith machine that will get you a full-body workout, explore the range by Commercial Home Gym.
The model can occupy decent floor space and can be ideal if you are setting up a home gym in your garage. The machine comes with 12 adjustable heights allowing you to target different muscle groups.
It also comes with a twin pulley cable system. The cables have a high tension of 2000 lbs and have a 1:1 ratio. The cable system has 16 adjustable heights, which lets you work out your upper and lower body. A 2x 176 lbs weight stack is connected to the cables. You can add weights in 11 lbs increments.
The counterbalanced Smith machine comes with a 2x safety spotter bar, allowing you to work out alone in a safe environment.
Some other attachments included with the Smith machine are a leg press, pull-up bar with a 5-way grip, and J-hooks.
Ensure you are looking for the right model. For example, the Deluxe option by Commercial Home Gym includes weights and a bench, but the model is priced significantly higher.
Key Features:
| Cage Size (L x W x H) | 49” x 79” x 90” |
| Product Weight | Not mentioned |
| Weight Capacity | 990 lbs on racks, 770 lbs on the bar |
| Weight Bench | Not included |
| Weights | No included (Available with Deluxe version) |
| Color | Blue, Red, Black |
| Warranty | 1-year warranty on all parts |
Pros
- Perform a variety of exercises.
- Good weight capacity can be suitable for advanced gym goers as well.
- Available in different colors.
Cons
- Weights need to be bought separately in the case of the Standard version.
- Instructions can be confusing; assembly can take time.
Best Beginner-Friendly Smith Machine for Home Gym: Major Lutie Smith Machine – SML01
If you are looking to add versatility to your workouts, then the SML01 model by Major Lutie can be a good starting point.
The machine provides you with the functionality of a power tower, Smith bar, and a squat rack. In addition, it comes with accessories like a lat pulldown, cable, dip, T-bar, safety arm, and 2x J-hooks. It also has a landmine attachment. This power-packed machine has a weight capacity of 1600 lbs.
With these many accessories and a varying weight capacity of 300 to 450 lbs, you can perform various exercises like lat pulldowns, landmine movements, squats, deadlifts, seated cable rows, and more.
The frame of the Smith machine is made from 50 x 70 mm commercial steel with a thickness of 2 mm. The cables are nylon coated, and the system comes with ten adjustable heights. All accessories come with foam handles, offering you a better grip.
Key Features:
| Cage Size (L x W x H) | 60” x 61” x 83” |
| Product Weight | 324 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 400 lbs on the Smith bar, 450 lbs on safety catches, 350 lbs on dip handles, 300 lbs on the pull-up bar, 300 lbs on the lat pulldown system |
| Weight Bench | Not included |
| Weights | Not included |
| Color | Orange, Black, Red |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Pros
- Several accessories are included for a versatile workout.
- Comes in three color options.
- It can be a beginner-friendly home gym machine.
- E-manual and video instructions make assembly easy.
Cons
- Cables may sometimes twist while exercising.
- Attachments like bench, weight plates, and barbells need to be purchased separately.
Best Versatile Smith Machine for Home Gym: Major Lutie Smith Machine – SML07
If you are looking to step up your workout routine, then the SML07 model is a heavy-duty and versatile Smith machine you should consider.
This machine has a 50 x 50 mm 13 gauge commercial steel frame. As compared to the SML01, this model is heavier and will occupy more floor space.
The SML07 comes with several accessories like a wide and narrow pull-up bar, cable crossover, dip handle, Olympic barbell, big footboard, barbell holder, 360° landmine, and weight plate holder.
The pulley system can be adjusted to two heights and support up to 450 lbs. The weight plate for the cable crossover system can support Olympic and standard weights.
Combining the functionality of a power rack, squat rack, pulley system, and a Smith barbell, the cage offers a weight capacity of up to 1600 lbs.
Key Features:
| Cage Size (L x W x H) | 56.6” x 65.8” x 84.8” |
| Product Weight | 325.6 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lbs on Smith bar, 450 lbs on safety catches, 450 lbs on cables |
| Weight Bench | Not included |
| Weights Included | Not included |
| Color | Red, Black |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Pros
- Versatile Smith machine that lets you perform several exercises.
- A weight capacity of 450 to 500 lbs is good enough for most people.
- Good customer service by the brand.
- Available in different colors.
Cons
- You need to invest separately in a weight bench and weight plates.
- Suitable for more experienced users.
Best Budget-Friendly Smith Machine for Home Gym: Marcy Smith Machine with Bench SM-4008
If you are looking for a budget Smith machine for your home gym, the SM-4008 model by Marcy can be a good option. Compared to the other options on this list, the SM-4008 also comes with a weight bench.
The Smith machine includes several attachments that you can use to target different muscle groups. For example, the pull-up bar and the pulley system lets you work on your upper body. The pulley system supports standard and Olympic weight plates.
Then you have the leg developer extensions that let you work on your lower body.
The machine comes with a decent weight capacity, ranging from 100 to 300 lbs. This makes it a good option for beginners and intermediate-level users.
The unit has an adjustable back pad which lets the user work their upper body from various angles. Other accessories included are a triceps rope, exercise handles, a shiver bar, and ankle straps.
Key Features:
| Cage Size (L x W x H) | 65” x 79.25” x 84.5” |
| Product Weight | 290 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs on weight bar, 100 lbs on leg developer, 200 lbs on crossover and lat pull |
| Weight Bench | Included |
| Weights | Not included |
| Color | Black |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
Pros
- You can perform full-body workouts.
- It is a comparatively affordable model.
- The brand offers a good warranty.
- A weight bench is included.
Cons
- Assembling the machine can be difficult.
- There have been reviews about the cable system not being smooth.
Also Read: Marcy MWM 988 Home Gym Review – Is it Worth Buying?
Best Heavy-Duty Smith Machine For Home Gym: Marcy Smith Machine with Bench SM-4033
If you are committed to building a fully functional home gym and have the floor space at hand, then you could invest in the SM-4033 by Marcy. It is one of the best Smith machines for home gyms, included with several attachments that let you perform full-body workouts.
You can indulge in some bodyweight training with attachments like the pull-up and dip bar. The dip handles are height adjustable.
You can target your biceps with the adjustable preacher pad. You can remove the pad when not in use. You can target your lower body with exercises like squats and calf raises with the Smith bar.
You can adjust the back pad of the weight bench between -27° and 76°. This allows for better muscle isolation.
The Smith machine comes with other attachments like the short bar, landmine, leg anchor, and tricep rope, among others.
Key Features:
| Cage Size (L x W x H) | 70” x 84” x 86” |
| Product Weight | 566.20 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs on Smith bar, 300 lbs on safety catches, 600 lbs (weights and user weight) on bench |
| Weight Bench | Included |
| Weights | Not Included |
| Color | Red-Black |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
Pros
- You can perform full-body workouts.
- Adjustable weight bench and preacher curl pad included.
- The brand offers a good warranty.
Cons
- Leg press or leg developer not included. It cannot be added to the machine either.
- Assembly can be difficult.
5 Best Smith Machines For Home Gym Comparison Chart
| Product Name | Dimensions | Maximum Weight Capacity | Warranty | Amazon Customer Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Home Gym Smith Machine | Size: 49”L x 79”W x 90”HInside Cage Area: 34”L x 43”W x 89”H | Racks: 990 lbsBar: 770 lbs | 1-year on all parts | 4.3 out of 5 | |
| Major Lutie Smith Machine - SML01 | Cage Size: 60”L x 61”W x 83”H | User Weight: 400 lbsSmith Bar: 400 lbsSafety Catches: 450 lbsDip Handles: 350 lbsPull-up Bar: 300 lbsLat Pulldown System: 300 lbs | 1-year limited | 4.3 out of 5 | |
| Major Lutie Smith Machine - SML07 | Cage Size: 56.6”L x 65.8”W x 84.8”H | User Weight: 400 lbsSmith Machine Bar: 500 lbsSafety Catches: 450 lbsCable: 450 lbs | 1-year limited | No ratings | |
| Marcy Smith Machine with Bench SM-4008 | Assembled Cage Dimensions is 65”L x 79.25”W x 84.5”H Assembled Cage Dimensions is 65”L x 79.25”W x 84.5”H Assembled Bench Dimensions is 68.25”L x 26”W x 45.5”H | User Weight: 300 lbsWeight Bar: 300 lbsLeg Developer: 100 lbsCross-over: 200 lbsLat Pull: 200 lbs | 2-year limited | 4.3 out of 5 | |
| Marcy Smith Machine with Bench SM-4033 | Assembled Cage Dimensions is 70"L x 84”W x 86”H Assembled Bench Dimensions is 62"L x 26"W x 55”H | User Weight: 300 lbsSmith Machine Bar: 300 lbsSafety Catches: 300 lbsBench: 600 lbs (weights + user weight) | 2-year limited | 4.4 out of 5 |
What is a Smith Machine For Home Gym?
A machine that keeps the barbell secure between a pair of rails is known as the Smith machine. It was invented so people in weight training could perform moves like the squat without needing a spotter.
Today, the Smith machine has evolved to include several different attachments. A single machine can provide the functionality of a power rack, cable pulley system, and Smith bar.
Smith machines provide safety and stability for your strength training routine. There has been research that suggests you can increase your strength at a similar pace as you would do with free weights.
What Are The Benefits of Smith Machines?
Here are some reasons you should consider getting a Smith machine for your home gym.
- The main benefit of a Smith machine is that the weight bar is safely tucked between the vertical panes. This allows the bar to move up and down smoothly without moving back and forth or the weights falling off.
- The safety catches in place make strength training safe and effective. If you run into an issue, you can place the barbell on the frame slots.
- Along with the Smith bar and other attachments, you can target major muscle groups of the body.
- It is a good starting point for beginners. The stability the machine offers lets you take your time and learn the correct form of doing exercises like squats.
- It is also good for experienced users. It allows you to lift more weights, increasing your strength in the process.
What to Look For When Buying Smith Machines?
Here are a few factors to consider when looking for a Smith machine:
1. Size
You need to consider the floor space in your home gym. Some Smith machines can be compact in size, while others can take up considerable space. Thus consider the height, length, and width of the machine. You should also have enough space left over to complete exercises with the right form.
2. Build Quality
In the above list of Smith machines, users can lift anywhere from 100 lbs to 990 lbs. The machines need to be built using high-quality materials to sustain such weight limits. Look for machines designed using heavy-duty steel.
3. Attachments
Smith machines have evolved to be versatile and completely functional pieces of equipment. These machines come with attachments like a pull-up bar, dip bar, tricep rope, leg press, V-bar, barbells, and more. So, look for attachments that will help you work on the muscles you want to target.
4. Weight Capacity
Depending on your experience and skill level, different Smith machines are available. For example, some machines can support weights of up to 300 lbs which can be good for beginners and intermediate users. However, if you are an advanced user, you can opt for machines that can support over 500 lbs of weight.
5. Ease of Assembly
Putting up Smith machines will require some time and effort. Most customer reviews state assembling a machine can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours. With some machines, instructions can be confusing, so be prepared to employ expert help.
6. Budget
Smith machines for home gyms can range anywhere from $1000 to $3500 and more. You also need to consider the cost you will invest in other essential equipment like weight plates.
Summary
Smith machines can be versatile equipment for both beginners and experienced users. They help stabilize weight and let you perform exercises without a spotter. They let you target specific muscle groups and also help you learn the right posture.
With the attachments included, you can perform various exercises like pull-ups, chin-ups, dips, squats, bench presses, leg presses, and more.
We hope the above list and the consideration factors help you find the best Smith machine for your home gym.