There’s a reason cable machines are so prevalent in the gym. They’re one of the most versatile pieces of workout equipment to exist!

Cable machines unlock a vast variety of pulling exercises, help guide your technique and form, and can also save significant time in terms of set-up and take-down.

Getting your one eliminates the need to ever leave your home for a good workout – but can also set you back hundreds of dollars.

It’s important that you invest wisely, which is why we’ve reviewed the top cable crossover machines on the market. Get ready to take your fitness levels to new heights!

Best Cable Gym Machines

	XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine	NordicTrack Fusion CST Cable Machine	Body-Solid Cable Crossover Machine
Dimensions:	65 x 44 x 83 Inches	73 x 60 x 41 Inches	112 x 39 x 82 Inches
Resistance:	2 x 200 Pounds	N/A	Not included
Target Areas:	Total body	Total body	Arms (abs, biceps, triceps, pectorals)
Settings:	19	20	Fixed

For more of my workout gear recommendations, have a look through these popular Women’s Workout guide links: Balance Boards, KettleBells, Adjustable Dumbbells.

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Cable Machines For 2022

1. XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine
2. NordicTrack Fusion CST Cable Machine
3. Body-Solid Powerline Cable Crossover 
4. LFJ Pulley System Cable Machine
5. Best Fitness Cable Machine
6. FreeMotion Dual Cable EXT Crossover 
7. XMark Heavy Duty Cable Machine

Our reviews of the top rated cable machines with our comparison table and buyers guide will help you choose the right one for you.

Cable Machine Reviews

#1 XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine

The XMark Functional Trainer will quickly turn into the nucleus of your home gym. It is hands down one of the best cable machines you can find on the market today.

Fully equipped with dual 200 lb weight stacks, quick-adjust pulleys with 19 height settings, and a range of interchangeable accessories, this machine unlocks endless training possibilities.

It can easily adjust to accommodate the needs of any user, regardless of fitness level, training goals, stature or age.

Built with safety as a top priority, the XMark is constructed with a heavy duty 11-gauge steel mainframe, and a commercial-grade pulley system.

These features allow for true isolateral based movements and a smooth, yet controlled lift each time.

Additional components include a pair of short and long hand straps, a triceps rope, 2 bars (one short, one long), a leg extension curl strap, and an ankle strap.

You’ll even be able to incorporate pull-ups and chin-ups into your routine with the included split grip bar.

With this many features and included accessories, it’s no wonder this is such a fan favorite – it is simply the most adaptable model on the market today.

#2 NordicTrack Fusion CST Cable Machine

The NordicTrack Fusion CST is another top contender for the best home cable machine, offering a distinct set of advantages over most cable machines.

Just as versatile as the XMark, the NordicTrack is a must-have for those who intend to do a full body workout of their arms – biceps, forearms, shoulders, traps, triceps and with the lower ankle straps a full leg workout.

Perhaps the biggest reason to choose the NordicTrack Fusion is the live training subscription you can sign up for. World class trainers work along side you and can adjust your weights on the fly! (WiFi and internet needed)

The NordicTrack Fusion does not use free weights like most other cable machines but a magnetic interia flywheel that is silent and buttery smooth motion.

Constructed with high grade steel, this sturdy machine is free standing and solid, just like you would expect from a name like NordicTrack.

With this model, you’ll be able to incorporate an abundance of workout programs from HIIT to strength training and is perfect for the elderly and beginners!

This is the ideal choice for anyone looking for complete workout in the comfort of their home.

#3 Body-Solid Powerline Cable Crossover Machine

Body-Solid has displayed a long-term commitment to designing high quality gym equipment – and this cable crossover machine is no exception!

Featuring a professional carriage system with patented nylon bushing technology and 8 high-resin pulleys with sealed ball bearings, this model brings a commercial-grade workout right to your doorstep.

An extra-wide mainframe offers access to both high and low pulley exercises, allowing you to isolate your arms in a range of ways.

Furthermore, the 180-degree swivel capacity of the top and bottom pulleys will let you target and isolate your abs, biceps, triceps and pectorals.

Above all, the most key feature of this product is its ease of use – it was designed for individuals of all fitness levels, shapes and sizes.

Whether you are outfitting your home gym, commercial facility, office, or apartment, Body-Solid has you covered with one of the best cable crossover machines available today.

#4 LFJ Pulley System Cable Machine

Next up, we have the LFJ Pulley System, which is a complex cable attachment that can complete just about any functional trainer machine.

Made of solid steel construction with a powder coated finish, it includes 1 pulley, 1 adjustable steel cable, 4 carabiners, 1 tricep rope, and a loading pin.

It is designed to fit perfectly with both 1″ standard and 2″ Olympic weight plates, and supports up to 220 pounds of added weight load.

With LFJ, you’ll never have to worry about quality control – all ropes are made of heavy-duty black nylon with durable stoppers on both ends.

The multiple tools set also enables you to mix and match exercises to build your very own, personalized training plan.

Assembly won’t be an issue either – just thread the loading pin through the central hole of a weight plate and connect the sections.

The LFJ Pulley System can connect to power racks, pull-up bars, beams, and basically any other place where a strap can be installed.

It’s the best cable pulley machine you’ll find at its price point. 

#5 Best Fitness Cable Machine

Use the Body-Solid Best Fitness Functional Trainer to improve your performance both in the gym and in everyday life.

Equipped with a 190 lb weight stack and pulleys with 180-degree swivel capacity, you’ll get a wide variety of starting positions for a huge range of exercises.

2 adjustable nylon cable handles come included with the unit as well.

While many cable machines are often bulky and unwieldily, the Body-Solid has a comparatively small footprint, for a functional trainer, measuring 55 by 61 by 84 inches.

Best of all, the manufacturer offers a 3-year warranty on the frame and 1-year warranty on all ancillary parts.

All things considered, this is one of the best cable weight machines you can find online.

#6 FreeMotion Dual Cable EXT Crossover

Enhance your strength training and achieve your fitness goals with the FreeMotion Dual Cable EXT Crossover Machine.

Designed to provide a total-body workout, this is the ultimate strength trainer. It allows a practically unlimited range of motion with rotating swivel pulleys, counterbalanced arms and padded ankle cuffs.

It is also fully equipped with 2 independent weight stacks (210 pounds each), which allow 2 people to conveniently work out at the same time!

In addition to its versatility, this model is exceptionally durable. It features sturdy 11 gauge steel tubing with electrostatic powder coating for added resilience.

Better still, the FreeMotion comes with a lifetime warranty on its frame, a 10 year warranty for accessories, and a 1 year warranty on its cables.  

Without a doubt, this is one of the best gym cable machines you can buy to elevate your fitness levels.

#7 XMark Heavy Duty Cable Machine

Finishing our list off strong, our final recommendation is the XMark Heavy Duty Cable Machine. XMark is famous for their quality home workout equipment, and this model is no exception.

It sports an 11-gauge steel mainframe and a commercial-grade pulley system, both coated with a powder finish for scratch resistance.

Further features include two 14 inch Olympic sleeve adaptors, a chrome-plated lat pulldown bar, and a low row bar with texturized rubber hand grips.

As a result of these add-ons, this machine is great for lateral pull downs, low rows, bicep curls, tricep presses, and shoulder shrugs.

It even sports nylon-coated cables with a 2200 pound tensile strength rating and a 400 pound maximum load capacity.

Better yet, your workout will always be comfortable and safe, thanks to the included Duraguard vinyl cushions and oversized thigh pads.

All things considered, this is a must-have for gym enthusiasts looking to bring their next training session home.

Cable Machines Comparison Table

How to Choose the Best Cable Machine – Buying Guide

Now that you’ve seen the best home cable machines on the market, its time to decide which one you’ll be taking home.

A high quality option can be quite an investment, so its important that you choose something that will last for years to come.

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide which outlines the key factors to consider throughout the selection process.

By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have no doubts about which is ideal model for you!

Quality & Durability

One of the most important factors to consider when selecting a cable machine is quality of design.

These machines must support massive amounts of weight with the stability to keep you safe throughout your workout.

With that in mind, be sure you’re selecting a product constructed with high grade or powder coated steel, and equipped with a commercial-grade rig and pulley system.

Check that the base of the machine looks sturdy and that all the parts fit together firmly.

You should also look for machines with a warranty (or consider purchasing a warranty) in the case of damage, defect or malfunction.

Your safety should be your top priority! That’s why its so important to get a machine with a durable, high quality design.

Utility & Versatility

If you’re going to get the most out of your cable machine, it needs to be easy to use.

It’s easy to get intimidated by these large, industrial machines, so be sure to check out any tutorial and instructional videos you can find.

Many manufacturers provide these, and they’re well worth the watch.

Taking the extra couple of minutes to educate yourself on the features and design system of your machine can save you from a serious injury!

Some important factors which influence ease of use also include smoothness of the pulley system, quality of the cable grips, and versatility of the machine at large.

To get the most bang for your buck, you should be looking for a machine which offers the greatest amount of exercise choices.

Every cable machine out there provides different attachments, weight limits, and angles that you can experiment with.

Try to find one that targets multiple muscle groups at the same time so you can challenge your body in many different ways with just one machine.

Additional Features

Next, it’s important to consider what is included with your cable machine. Does it come with weight stacks, and if so, how many? What is the max resistance?

Consider the number of pulley stations, height positions, and any included attachments like handles or plate holders.

Many cable machines include pull-up bars or lateral pull-down attachments so you can incorporate a variety of different movements into your workout – this is a particularly important feature to consider.

You should also check the elevation of the lowest and highest adjustment hole to make sure there’s a comfortable option for your height and range of motion.

Maintenance

A quality machine will survive for a long time with periodic inspections and repairs.

Above all, the best form of maintenance is prevention! Periodically inspect your home cable machine to make sure everything is running smoothly.

Check out the video below for a more in-depth look at how to maintain your strength equipment.

Eliminating problems from occurring in the first place will save you time, stress and money down the road.

Preventative Maintenance Tips For Strength Equipment

Safety

Before buying any new piece of fitness equipment or engaging in a new form of exercise, you should consult with your doctor.

If you’re recovering from prior injury or suffer from any sort of bone or degenerative disease, a cable machine may not be the best workout option for you.

Make sure you’ve properly evaluated your physical health with a medical professional before investing in a cable machine.

FAQs About Home Cable Machines

Q: Are free weights better than cables?

A: This is one of the most frequently asked and fiercely debated questions in the fitness world.

In the end, it really comes down to your training goals and preferences.

Because free weights aren’t connected to anything, they force your body to stabilize itself throughout the lift, thus activating a wide range of ancillary muscles.

Strengthening these ancillary muscles offers benefits for all your lifts, as you’ll be strengthening many different muscle groups at once.

The balancing act of stabilization also improves your hand-eye coordination at large, making more complex lifts much easier to perform.

In contrast, cable machines allow you to isolate and focus on specific muscle groups by providing the stabilization and support for your body.

They allow you to get a full range of motion and guide your body into the correct form for each lift – but forfeit training the smaller muscles that would otherwise perform these tasks.

Thus, cables are much more safe for beginners and those recovering from injury. With free weights the biggest disadvantage is really safety – if your form is bad, you risk injury.

Q: What are advantages of cable weight machines?

A: Cable machines provide the stabilization and support for you to isolate specific muscle groups and perfect your form.

They also save significant time setting up and putting away weights and workout materials.

Q: Do you need machines to build muscle?

A: Not at all! There are plenty of methods to build muscle that don’t involve machines or even weights at all.

For example, resistance bands and body-weight exercises can build muscle just as easily as machines – it all just depends on the work you put in.

There is no one way to build muscle.

Q: Are cable machine weights accurate?

A: Most weight stacks themselves are fairly accurate – the discrepancy presents itself in terms of mechanical advantage. 

Mechanical advantage is a concept which encapsulates the purpose of machines in the first place – that they can move more resistance than the force applied.

In other words, there is not a 1:1 ratio of resistance to effort when using a machine, due to the weight-relieving mechanics of pulley and lever systems.

With a little bit of physics knowledge and some basic math, you can actually calculate the cable and pulley ratio of resistance per machine – check this article out for more.

Tips For Choosing A Cable Crossover Machine

#1: Safety first!

Safety should be your top priority.

When using these machines, you’re dealing with large amounts of weight and movements that could potentially injure you if performed incorrectly.

Take an extra moment to research proper form and ask your doctor for approval if you have a history of injury.

#2: Invest in quality.

Though the price tags of quality cable machines can be steep, it’s better to invest in quality upfront rather than wasting money on damage control and repairs in the future.

You’ll save more money this way and have peace of mind in regards to your safety and workout quality.

#3: Choose versatility.

If you want to maximize your return on investment, get a machine that allows you to accomplish the widest range of exercises possible, targeting as many muscle groups as possible.

Summary

Now that you know all about how to buy a good cable machine, it’s finally time to bring one home.

As long as you keep safety, quality and versatility at the top of your check list, you’ll be investing in one of the best options on the market.

Thanks for reading & happy shopping!

How We Researched

To come up with the top cable crossover machines, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as Best Buy, Walmart, Target and Sears along with our own personal experience.

The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.

By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.

With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.

The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.

Sources