Olympic or Bumper Smith Machines? Compared by Specs
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
Choosing between an olympic vs bumper smith machine depends on your training style. Both Royal Fitness and Mikolo offer all-in-one home gym systems that combine a Smith machine, power rack, and cable crossover. The main difference lies in how they load weight. One uses standard Olympic cast iron plates you load manually. The other uses a dual internal weight stack system. This affects how you adjust resistance and store the equipment.
Key differences
| Aspect | Royal Fitness Smith Machine with 140 lb Plates | Mikolo Horus Dual Stack Smith Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Plate Type | Olympic Cast Iron | Bumper |
| Weight System | 140 lbs included plates | 256 lb dual weight stack |
| Weight Capacity | not listed | 2,200 lb |
| Upright Size | not listed | 50 x 50 mm (2" x 2") |
| Pulley Ratio | not listed | 2:1 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Royal Fitness Smith Machine with 140 lb Plates if
- You prefer loading standard Olympic plates manually
- You want a system that includes a 140 lb cast iron plate set
- You are looking for a multifunction power cage with a cable crossover
Choose Mikolo Horus Dual Stack Smith Machine if
- You want a 256 lb dual weight stack for quick adjustments
- You need a 2:1 pulley ratio for lat pulldowns and rows
- You prefer a commercial-grade frame with a 2,200 lb capacity
Verdict: The Royal Fitness model suits those who like traditional plate loading. The Mikolo Horus is better for users who want the speed of a weight stack and higher structural capacity.
Olympic vs Bumper Smith Machine Specs
Weight capacity
The Mikolo Horus Smith Machine boasts a 2,200-lb weight capacity, built with 50×50mm² industrial steel and reinforced joints. This heavy-duty frame supports Olympic lifts and squats with significant stability. The Royal Fitness Smith Machine does not list a specific weight capacity in its published specifications. While Royal Fitness claims its heavy-duty steel frame provides superb stability, the lack of a stated limit makes direct comparison difficult. For users prioritizing maximum structural load limits, the Mikolo provides a clear, high-capacity specification that suggests robust performance under heavy loads.
Weight stack
The Mikolo Horus features a dual weight stack system with a total capacity of 256 lbs, split as 128 lbs per side. This allows two users to train independently without interference, supporting efficient solo or partner workouts. The Royal Fitness Smith Machine uses a plate-loaded system with included 140 lbs of Olympic cast iron plates. It does not have a built-in weight stack. If you prefer adding your own plates, the Royal Fitness option offers flexibility. However, the Mikolo’s integrated stacks provide a different loading experience that eliminates the need to manually change plates during supersets.
Pulley ratio
The Mikolo Horus utilizes an innovative 2:1 pulley ratio for its functional trainer. This internally combines the output from each weight stack to deliver a 256-lb total capacity for lat pulldown and low row exercises. The system allows seamless transitions between movements without carabiner adjustments. The Royal Fitness Smith Machine includes a cable crossover system but does not specify a pulley ratio in its data. This means you cannot determine the resistance mechanics for its cable exercises. The Mikolo’s specified ratio offers transparency regarding how resistance is applied during cable movements.
Attachments
The Mikolo Horus consolidates ten professional stations into one footprint, including a power rack, functional trainer, lat pulldown, low row, Smith machine, vertical leg press, chin-up bar, dip station, core trainer, and suspension trainer. It also includes 10+ premium attachments and 6 weight storage pins. The Royal Fitness Smith Machine combines a Smith machine, power cage, and cable crossover system. It includes a weight bench and five free accessories. The Mikolo offers a broader range of integrated stations and dedicated attachment hooks, providing more variety for full-body workouts without additional purchases.
Plate type
The Royal Fitness Smith Machine uses Olympic cast iron plates, included in the package as a 140 lbs set. These plates are designed to endure intense workouts and do not corrode. The Mikolo Horus uses bumper plates, with options for 230 lbs of black or color bumper plates in its sets. Olympic plates are typically thinner and require more space for loading, while bumper plates are thicker and safer for dropping. Your choice depends on whether you prefer traditional iron plates or modern bumper plates for your Smith machine exercises.
Choose the right Smith machine for you
Budget-focused beginners wanting plates
The Royal Fitness model includes 140 lbs of Olympic cast iron plates in the package. This setup is ideal for users who prefer loading standard plates. The included weight bench and cable crossover system provide a complete home gym solution. You get a solid steel frame and height-adjustable safety catches. This option offers a practical entry point for basic strength training without the complexity of a weight stack.
Users seeking heavy-duty commercial stability
The Mikolo Horus features a 2,200-lb weight capacity built with 50×50mm² industrial steel. This robust frame ensures stability for heavy Olympic lifts and squats. The patent-pending bolt system and military-grade coating add to its durability. You benefit from a rock-solid structure designed for lifetime home gym performance. This machine is built for serious lifters who need maximum rigidity and support during intense training sessions.
Trainees wanting efficient dual-station workouts
The Mikolo Horus offers a dual weight stack system with a 256-lb total capacity. This design allows two users to train independently without interference. The innovative 2:1 pulley ratio delivers 256 lbs of resistance for lat pulldowns and low rows. You can perform seamless supersets and dropsets while reducing setup time. This feature is perfect for efficient solo workouts or partner training sessions.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Royal Fitness Smith Machine with 140 lb Plates | All-in-one Smith machine setups with Olympic plates | Check price of Royal Fitness Smith Machine with 140 lb Plates on Amazon |
| 2 | Mikolo Horus Dual Stack Smith Machine | Users wanting a combined rack and cable system | Check price of Mikolo Horus Dual Stack Smith Machine on Amazon |
The products compared
Royal Fitness Smith Machine with 140 lb Plates
Best for: All-in-one Smith machine setups with Olympic plates
- Plate Type
- Olympic (what this guide is about)
- Included Plates
- 140 lbs
- Attachments
- Weight Bench, Cable Crossover, Smith Machine, Weight Plates
View on Amazon: Royal Fitness Smith Machine with 140 lb Plates Affiliate link
This Royal Fitness system combines a power cage, Smith machine, and cable crossover into one unit. It includes a weight bench and 140 lbs of Olympic cast iron plates. The frame measures 78.7 x 64.1 x 87.4 inches. Height-adjustable pulleys and safety catches allow for various exercises. It suits you if you need a multifunctional home gym setup that includes barbell plates.
Pros
- Includes 140 lbs of Olympic cast iron plates
- Integrates Smith machine, power cage, and cable crossover
- Features height-adjustable pulleys and safety catches
- Comes with an adjustable weight bench
Cons
- Included plate weight is limited to 140 lbs
- Footprint requires 78.7 x 64.1 inches of floor space
- Heavy steel frame construction complicates assembly
Good fit if
- You want a Smith machine with included Olympic plates
- You need a cable crossover system in one unit
- You have space for a 78.7-inch long frame
Skip if
- You prefer bumper plates over cast iron
- You need more than 140 lbs of included weight
- You require a compact footprint under 60 inches
Verdict: Royal Fitness Smith Machine with 140 lbs Plates is a solid choice for lifters who want an all-in-one station with Olympic plates. It fits those who value integrated cable work and do not need heavy included weights.
Mikolo Horus Dual Stack Smith Machine
Best for: Users wanting a combined rack and cable system
- Plate Type
- Bumper (what this guide is about)
- 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
View on Amazon: Mikolo Horus Dual Stack Smith Machine Affiliate link
The Mikolo SM02 is an all-in-one home gym that combines a power rack with a Smith machine and functional trainer. It features a 256-lb dual weight stack system with a 2:1 pulley ratio. The frame uses 50x50mm uprights and supports a 2,200-lb capacity. It includes lat pulldown, low row, and cable crossover stations. This setup suits users who want a complete training system in one footprint.
Pros
- 256-lb total dual weight stack capacity
- 2:1 pulley ratio for lat pulldown and low row
- 2,200-lb weight capacity with 50x50mm uprights
- Integrated Smith machine and cable crossover system
Cons
- Designed for bumper plates rather than Olympic plates
- Fixed 256-lb weight stack limits heavy loading options
- Large footprint requires significant floor space
Good fit if
- You need a combined power rack and cable machine
- You prefer using bumper plates for training
- You want independent dual weight stacks for partner workouts
Skip if
- You require Olympic plate compatibility
- You have limited floor space for a large unit
- You need adjustable weight increments beyond the stack
Verdict: The Mikolo Smith Machine with Dual Weight Stack is a robust all-in-one station for users who prioritize space efficiency and dual-stack functionality. It fits those who train with bumper plates and want integrated cable movements without buying separate machines.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Royal Fitness Smith Machine with 140 lb Plates | Mikolo Horus Dual Stack Smith Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | not stated | 2,200 lb |
| Upright Dimensions | not stated | 50 x 50 mm (2" x 2") |
| Pulley Ratio | not stated | 2:1 |
| Weight Stack | not stated | 256 lb |
| Included Plates | 140 lbs | not stated |
| Attachments | Weight Bench, Cable Crossover, Smith Machine, Weight Plates | Weight Bench, Cable Crossover, Lat Pulldown, Smith Machine, Weight Stacks, Dual Pulley System, Pulley System |
| Plate Type | Olympic | Bumper |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | not stated | SM02 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use bumper plates on an Olympic Smith machine?
No, you cannot. Olympic Smith machines require plates with a 2-inch center hole. Bumper plates typically have a 1-inch or 1.5-inch hole. The Royal Fitness machine uses Olympic plates, so it is not compatible with standard bumper plates. You must use 2-inch hole plates.
Does the Mikolo Smith Machine come with weight plates?
No, it does not include plates. The Mikolo Horus uses a dual stack system for resistance. It relies on internal weight stacks rather than loaded plates. This design saves space but means you do not get physical plates with the purchase.
Which Smith machine is better for limited space?
The Mikolo Horus is better for small areas. It features a dual pulley system and integrated weight stacks. This all-in-one design combines a rack, Smith machine, and cable crossover. The Royal Fitness model also combines these functions but requires storage for separate plates.
Can I do cable crossover exercises on these machines?
Yes, both models support cable exercises. The Royal Fitness includes a cable crossover attachment. The Mikolo Horus features a dual pulley system and cable crossover. Both allow you to perform various upper body movements without needing a separate cable machine.
What is the main difference in loading weight?
The Royal Fitness uses free Olympic plates. You load weight manually onto the bar. The Mikolo uses a dual stack system. You select weight by adjusting pins in the internal stacks. One uses external plates, while the other uses internal stacks.
Is the Royal Fitness machine suitable for heavy lifting?
It is suitable for general training. It includes 140 lbs of cast iron plates. The machine supports integrated cable work and standard Smith movements. It does not list a specific weight capacity, so it may not support maximal heavy lifting compared to industrial frames.
Do I need to buy separate weights for the Mikolo?
No, you do not need external weights for the stacks. The Mikolo Horus includes dual weight stacks for resistance. You do not need to buy bumper plates or Olympic plates for the primary resistance. You only need equipment for other attachments if used.