6 Best Alternatives to the Inspire Fitness FTX Functional Trainer (2026)

How alternatives compare to Inspire FTX

RitFit M1 Pro Smith Machine with Weight Stack

The RitFit M1 Pro Smith Machine adds a Smith bar to the cable system, whereas the Inspire FTX focuses purely on selectorized cable movements. This unit combines a Smith machine with expandable cable work, offering a more versatile all-in-one solution for home gyms. It includes a weight bench and stacks, providing a complete strength station with storage. You gain the ability to perform barbell-style movements safely guided by the Smith rail, which the FTX cannot do. However, you lose the specific compact footprint of the FTX. This machine suits buyers seeking a complete strength station with storage rather than just a dedicated cable station. It replaces multiple machines with one frame, though it requires more floor space than the 54-inch wide Inspire.

Mikolo Horus Dual Stack Smith Machine

The Mikolo Horus Dual Stack Smith Machine offers a compact dual-stack solution for users prioritizing space efficiency over maximum weight capacity. Like the Inspire FTX, it features a dual pulley system and weight stacks, but it also integrates a Smith machine and lat pulldown attachments. The Mikolo includes a cable crossover system and supports bumper plates, adding versatility beyond the FTX’s selectorized stacks. You get a broader range of exercises, including barbell work and lat pulldowns. The FTX is strictly a functional trainer without a Smith rail. This Mikolo model fits users who want a compact footprint but need the added functionality of a Smith machine and lat pulldown. It sacrifices some of the FTX’s specific compact design for added exercise variety.

DONOW Smith Machine 308 lb Steel Stack

The DONOW Smith Machine 308 lb Steel Stack offers a complete training station with steel stacks and a 1:1 resistance ratio. Unlike the Inspire FTX’s two 165 lb stacks, this unit provides a single 308 lb steel stack. It includes a Smith machine, cable crossover, and weight bench. The DONOW is larger, measuring 78.6 inches wide and 88.3 inches tall, compared to the FTX’s 54-inch width. You gain the ability to use standard plates and perform barbell movements, which the FTX lacks. However, you give up the compact design and dual-stack configuration. This machine fits those with adequate floor space who want to replace multiple machines with one frame. It is a solid choice for users prioritizing steel stacks and a 1:1 ratio over compactness.

Major Fitness Drone2 Smith Machine

The Major Fitness Drone2 Smith Machine delivers robust stability with 2x2 inch uprights and a 2,000 lb capacity. It features aluminum pulleys for smooth cable movements, differing from the FTX’s standard pulley system. This unit is designed for heavy-duty all-in-one home gym setups, offering a Smith machine and cable crossover. It is significantly heavier and more robust than the Inspire FTX. You gain a higher weight capacity and more durable construction, suitable for serious strength training. However, you lose the compact footprint of the FTX. The Drone2 is a heavy-duty rack with aluminum pulleys, whereas the FTX is a dedicated functional trainer. This machine fits buyers who want a heavy-duty, all-in-one rack with aluminum pulleys for serious strength training, rather than a compact cable station.

Major Fitness Drone MAX V Smith Machine

The Major Fitness Drone MAX V Smith Machine fits buyers who want a heavy-duty, space-saving unit with versatile pulley options. It includes a Smith machine, cable crossover, lat pulldown, and weight stacks. Unlike the Inspire FTX, which is a dedicated functional trainer, this unit offers a broader range of exercises including barbell work. It is designed for serious strength training and provides a solid choice for those needing a Smith machine and rack. You gain versatility and heavy-duty construction, but you give up the compact design of the FTX. The Drone MAX V is a space-saving unit, but it is still larger than the 54-inch wide Inspire. This machine suits users who prioritize heavy-duty construction and versatile pulley options over a dedicated compact cable station.

SunHome Smith Machine with Weight Stack and Plates

The SunHome S4 Pro 2000 lb Power Cage offers a 2,000 lb capacity, far exceeding the Inspire FTX’s weight stack limits. It includes a Smith machine, cable crossover, lat pulldown, and weight stacks. This unit is designed for heavy lifters needing high capacity and a complete cable system in a single frame. It supports bumper plates and includes a weight bench. You gain maximum weight capacity and the ability to perform heavy barbell movements, which the FTX cannot support. However, you lose the compact footprint of the FTX. The SunHome is larger, measuring 60 inches wide and 90 inches tall. It fits users with the floor space to accommodate its substantial size and weight. This machine is a solid choice for lifters prioritizing maximum weight capacity over compactness.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Inspire Fitness FTX Compact Functional Trainer

Best for: compact dual-stack home cable workouts

Weight Stack

Two 165 lb

Attachments

Weight Bench, Weight Stacks

Design

Compact

Dimensions

40 × 54 × 85 inches

Weight

544 pounds

View on Amazon: Inspire Fitness FTX Compact Functional Trainer Affiliate link

The Inspire Fitness FTX is a dedicated functional trainer built around two 165-pound weight stacks and sliding pulleys. It occupies a 54-inch wide by 40-inch long floor footprint with an 85-inch height and weighs 544 pounds. This unit suits you if you want dual-stack cable exercises, an integrated pull-up bar, and dedicated attachment storage without a full-size cage.

Pros

• Dual 165-pound selectorized weight stacks
• Compact 54-inch by 40-inch footprint
• Includes tricep rope, D-handles, curl bar, and dip belt
• Built-in storage rack and dedicated device holder

Cons

• Resistance is limited to 165 pounds per stack
• Does not include an integrated barbell rack or Smith bar
• Frame height of 85 inches requires high ceiling clearance

Good fit if

• You want dual 165-pound selectorized weight stacks for cable workouts.
• You need a compact machine footprint measuring 54 inches wide by 40 inches long.
• You want included attachments like a curl bar, dip belt, and tricep rope.

Skip if

• You need a barbell rack or Smith machine for heavy squats.
• You lift more than 165 pounds per side on cable exercises.
• You have a workout room with ceilings lower than 85 inches.

Verdict: Inspire Fitness FTX Dual Stack Functional Trainer fits you if you want a dedicated cable station with two 165-pound stacks and sliding pulleys in an 85-inch tall frame. It leaves out barbell racking, centering entirely on compact selectorized cable routines.

2 Also great

RitFit M1 Pro Smith Machine with Weight Stack

Best for: compact home gyms needing Smith and cable work

Weight Capacity

1850 lbs

Upright Dimensions

2" x 2"

Weight Stack

286 lbs

Adjustment Levels

12

Attachments

Weight Bench, Cable Crossover, Smith Machine, Weight Stacks

View on Amazon: RitFit M1 Pro Smith Machine with Weight Stack Affiliate link

The RitFit M1 Pro combines a Smith machine with a cable crossover and dual weight stacks. It features 286 lbs of built-in weight, expandable to 902 lbs total. The 2x2 inch steel uprights support 1,850 lbs. With 12 adjustment levels and a compact footprint, it suits home gyms needing versatile strength training and storage.

Pros

• Dual weight stacks totaling 286 lbs
• 1,850 lbs max weight capacity
• Expandable to 902 lbs with plug-in plates
• Integrated cable crossover system
• Built-in storage for plates and bars

Cons

• 286 lbs built-in weight is lighter than some competitors
• No smart tracking or app connectivity
• Requires assembly of multiple packages

Good fit if

• You want a single unit for Smith and cable exercises
• You need expandable weight capacity for progressive overload
• You value integrated storage for home gym gear

Skip if

• You prefer a standard 3x3 inch upright frame
• You need pre-loaded weight over 286 lbs
• You want a compact rack without cable systems

Verdict: The RitFit M1 Pro Smith Machine offers a versatile all-in-one solution for home gyms, combining a 1,850 lbs capacity Smith machine with expandable cable work. It fits buyers seeking a complete strength station with storage.

3 Best dual pulley system

Mikolo Horus Dual Stack Smith Machine

Best for: compact dual-pulley home gyms

Weight Capacity

2,200 lb

Upright Dimensions

50 x 50 mm (2" x 2")

Pulley Ratio

2:1

Weight Stack

256 lb

Attachments

Weight Bench, Cable Crossover, Lat Pulldown, Smith Machine, Weight Stacks, Dual Pulley System, Pulley System

Plate Type

Bumper

View on Amazon: Mikolo Horus Dual Stack Smith Machine Affiliate link

The Mikolo SM02 combines a Smith machine with a dual-pulley functional trainer. It features a 2:1 pulley ratio and a 256-lb total weight stack. The 50x50mm uprights support a 2,200-lb capacity. This all-in-one system includes a lat pulldown, low row, and vertical leg press. It suits users who want independent dual-stack training in a compact footprint.

Pros

• Dual weight stack system with 256-lb total capacity
• 2:1 pulley ratio for lat pulldown and low row
• 50x50mm uprights with 2,200-lb weight capacity
• Integrated vertical leg press station

Cons

• 256-lb total weight stack is lighter than standard 400-lb stacks
• Limited to 10 professional stations compared to modular setups
• No mention of adjustable pulley height range beyond fixed pivot

Good fit if

• You want dual-pulley functionality in a single power rack footprint
• You need a 2:1 ratio for lat pulldowns and low rows
• You prefer a 50x50mm upright frame for heavy loading

Skip if

• You require more than 256 lbs of resistance per side
• You need a standard 1:1 pulley ratio for specific exercises
• You want a modular system with expandable attachment options

Verdict: Mikolo Smith Machine Dual Pulley System offers a compact dual-stack solution for users prioritizing space efficiency over maximum weight capacity.

4 Also great

DONOW Smith Machine 308 lb Steel Stack

Best for: Users wanting steel stacks and a 1:1 ratio

Upright Dimensions

2"x2"

Weight Stack

308 lbs

Attachments

Weight Bench, Cable Crossover, Smith Machine, Weight Stacks

Dimensions

54.7 × 78.6 × 88.3 inches

View on Amazon: DONOW Smith Machine 308 lb Steel Stack Affiliate link

The DONOW DN-DS938T is an all-in-one home gym system combining a power cage, Smith machine, and cable crossover. It uses a 1:1 pulley ratio with 308 lbs of steel weight stacks for consistent resistance. The unit measures 78.6 by 54.7 by 88.3 inches and includes a lat pulldown bench and landmine. This setup suits users needing a compact, multi-functional station for full-body strength training.

Pros

• Includes 308 lbs of steel weight stacks for durable, long-lasting use
• 1:1 pulley ratio provides direct 308 lbs of maximum resistance
• Combines power cage, Smith machine, and cable crossover in one frame
• Features a 6-level adjustable lat pulldown bench and 360-degree landmine

Cons

• Lacks a 1:2 pulley ratio for lat pulldown assistance
• Footprint is 78.6 inches wide and 54.7 inches deep
• Does not include a built-in digital display or heart rate monitor

Good fit if

• You need a single unit that handles squats, presses, and cable exercises
• You prefer steel weight stacks over plate-loaded options
• You have space for a 78.6-inch wide frame

Skip if

• You require a 1:2 pulley ratio for assisted lat pulldowns
• You need a compact footprint smaller than 54.7 inches deep
• You want to add weight plates directly rather than using the stack

Verdict: DONOW Smith Machine 308 lb Steel Stack offers a complete training station for users who want steel stacks and a 1:1 resistance ratio. It fits those with adequate floor space who want to replace multiple machines with one frame.

5 Best aluminum pulleys

Major Fitness Drone2 Smith Machine

Best for: heavy-duty all-in-one home gym setups

Weight Capacity

2,000 lbs

Upright Dimensions

2 x 2 inches

Pulley Ratio

1:1

Attachments

Weight Bench, Aluminum Pulleys

Use

Squats

Dimensions

4.92 × 8.66 × 81.5 inches

View on Amazon: Major Fitness Drone2 Smith Machine Affiliate link

The Major Fitness Drone2 Premium integrates a power cage, cable crossover, and pull-up station into one unit. It features 2x2 inch commercial-grade steel uprights and a 2,000 lb weight capacity. The 1:1 pulley ratio provides steady resistance for strength training. Aluminum pulleys reduce friction. It includes dip handles, a T-bar, and a lat pulldown bar. This all-in-one system suits home gyms needing heavy-duty stability.

Pros

• 2,000 lb weight capacity for heavy loads
• 1:1 pulley ratio for consistent resistance
• 2x2 inch commercial-grade steel uprights
• Aluminum pulley set reduces friction
• Includes dip handles, T-bar, and lat pulldown bar

Cons

• Heavy-duty steel frame requires significant floor space
• No digital display or smart tracking features
• Limited height options available in variations

Good fit if

• You need a single unit for squats and cable work
• You prioritize high weight capacity for heavy lifting
• You want aluminum pulleys for smoother cable movement

Skip if

• You require a compact footprint for small rooms
• You need digital connectivity or app integration
• You prefer a lighter machine for easy relocation

Verdict: Major Fitness Drone2 Premium Smith Machine delivers robust stability with 2x2 inch uprights and a 2,000 lb capacity. It fits buyers who want a heavy-duty, all-in-one rack with aluminum pulleys for serious strength training.

6 Best premium

Major Fitness Drone MAX V Smith Machine

Best for: Heavy home gyms needing Smith machine and rack

Weight Capacity

2500 lbs

Upright Dimensions

2 x 2 inches

Steel Thickness

14-gauge

Pulley Ratio

1:1 & 2:1

Adjustment Levels

18

Attachments

Weight Bench, Cable Crossover, Lat Pulldown, Smith Machine, Weight Stacks

View on Amazon: Major Fitness Drone MAX V Smith Machine Affiliate link

The Major Fitness Drone MAX V combines a power rack, Smith machine, and cable crossover into one unit. It features 14-gauge steel construction with a 2,500 lb capacity. The dual-ratio pulley system offers 1:1 and 2:1 settings for varied resistance. You get 18 adjustment levels for both J-cups and pulleys. This all-in-one design suits home gyms needing heavy-duty strength training equipment.

Pros

• 2,500 lb weight capacity for heavy loads
• Dual 1:1 and 2:1 pulley ratios
• 18 adjustable positions for J-cups and cables
• 14-gauge steel uprights for stability

Cons

• Requires purchasing weight stacks separately in base configurations
• No mention of included safety spotter arms
• Limited to silver color option

Good fit if

• You need a Smith machine and power rack in one footprint
• You want dual pulley ratios for varied training
• You plan to lift heavy with weight stacks

Skip if

• You want a complete system with weights included
• You prefer multiple color choices
• You need included safety spotter arms

Verdict: The Major Fitness Drone MAX V Smith Machine fits buyers who want a heavy-duty, space-saving unit with versatile pulley options. It is a solid choice for serious strength training.

7 Best budget

SunHome Smith Machine with Weight Stack and Plates

Best for: heavy lifters needing high capacity

Weight Capacity

2000 lbs

Steel Thickness

2 mm

Weight Stack

120 lbs

Included Plates

230 lbs

Attachments

Weight Bench, Cable Crossover, Lat Pulldown, Smith Machine, Weight Stacks, Weight Plates

Use

Squats

View on Amazon: SunHome Smith Machine with Weight Stack and Plates Affiliate link

The SunHome S4 Pro combines a Smith machine, power cage, and cable crossover into one unit. It features a 2000 lb weight capacity and 2 mm thick steel frame for stability. The package includes a 120 lb adjustable weight stack and 230 lbs of Olympic plates. You get a rolling bearing pulley system and a butterfly chest station. This all-in-one design suits those needing a compact, heavy-duty home gym setup.

Pros

• 2000 lb weight capacity for heavy lifting
• 2 mm thick commercial steel frame
• Includes 120 lb adjustable weight stack
• Rolling bearing pulley system reduces noise
• Integrated butterfly chest station

Cons

• Heavier build at 440 lbs
• Limited to 120 lb weight stack
• Large footprint requires significant space

Good fit if

• You need a high weight capacity
• You want an all-in-one cable system
• You prefer rolling bearing pulleys

Skip if

• You have limited floor space
• You need more than 120 lbs of stack weight
• You prefer a lighter, portable unit

Verdict: SunHome S4 Pro 2000 lb Power Cage is a solid choice for lifters who prioritize maximum weight capacity and a complete cable system in a single frame. It fits users with the floor space to accommodate its substantial size and weight.

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Frequently asked questions

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