Ever since I set up my home gym, I realized the importance of having a high-quality and multi-functional pulley system. It's been a game-changer for my workouts. But choosing the best pulley system hasn't been easy.
I conducted thorough research, over 20 hours in total, and talked with my clients and other fitness trainers to find the best home gym pulley system.
Here's the ultimate list of the 10 best pulley systems.
The Best Home Gym Pulley Systems
- Best Overall Home Gym Pulley System: Rogue Spud Inc.
- Cheapest Home Gym Pulley System: Mikolo Fitness
- Best Durable Pulley System for Home Gym: Rogue Spud Inc.
- Best Home Gym Pulley System for Beginners: Sertt Pulley
- Most Versatile Home Gym Pulley System: Titan Fitness
- Best Pulley System With Warranty: Rep Fitness
- Easiest to Assemble Home Pulley System: FitPartner
- Best Home Gym Pulley System for Professionals: Mikolo Fitness
Our Top Pulley Systems for Home Gym (November 2024)
1 - Rogue Spud Inc. Pulley Systems (Best Overall & Durable)
- Spud Inc Pulley Systems
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compatible with all types of attachments
- Offers killer triceps and rear delt progress
- Super affordable
- Highly durable and doesn't easily wear off
Cons
- When attaching, you need to position yourself further from weights to keep your body clear
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Advanced users seeking durability
- Those needing versatile attachment compatibility
Who is it not for?
- Users with limited space as it requires a power rack
Final Verdict
Best overall for durability and versatility. It offers a robust design that complements a serious workout regimen.
Having used the Rogue Spud Inc. pulley system in my own home gym, I can vouch for its affordability. All I needed was my existing power rack to attach it and some weights to get started.
It is straightforward to install and compatible with all attachments, including original or other manufacturers'.
I completely switched from resistance-based workouts to exercising with this home gym pulley system since, according to a study in the National Library of Medicine, simple rope-pulley systems are far superior and offer better resistance [1]. It takes no space, and you can easily store it in a small bag or box.
Product Facts:
2 - Titan Fitness Short Wall Mounted Pulley Tower V3 (Most Versatile)
- Titan Fitness Wall Mounted Pulley Tower
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High exercise versatility due to the two-pulley system
- You can use your weights to load the pulley
- Two of these pulleys build a fully functional trainer for a much lower price
Cons
- Pulley wheels can only handle up to 350 lbs
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Users seeking exercise versatility
- Those who prefer using their own weights
Who is it not for?
- Those needing a higher weight capacity system
Final Verdict
Highly versatile and cost-effective, this pulley system allows for a variety of exercises. Ideal for seasoned athletes.
From my time with the Titan Fitness's short wall-mounted pulley tower V3, I was impressed by the exercise versatility it brought to my routines [2].
It is a rare home gym pulley system that allows you to use a weight you already own to load the lifts.
In addition, a unique two-pulley system allows you to accomplish certain moves a single pulley wouldn't.
I enjoyed bilateral rows on this home gym pulley system. Plus, according to a study published in the Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, pulling exercises let you choose various angles to hit different muscles [3].
However, one of the downsides is the plastic pulley wheels, which cause the implement to have a fraction.
Product Facts:
3 - Rep Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer (Best Warranty)
- Rep Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Backed by a lifetime frame warranty
- Included multi-grip pull-up handles for better back workout
- It comes with a built-in exercise chart
Cons
- Tough to assemble alone and takes a significant portion of the time
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those looking for a comprehensive setup with multiple grips
- Users valuing a strong warranty
Who is it not for?
- Beginners due to its complex setup and higher cost
Final Verdict
Offers a solid construction with a lifetime warranty. It's a premium choice for dedicated fitness enthusiasts.
Having incorporated the Rep Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer into my workouts, I found its heavy-duty 11-gauge steel construction stood out, ensuring durability session after session.
It has very smooth-acting pulleys with 16 height adjustments for each of them.
Also, I liked that this pulley has magnetic tipped weight pins that require the least effort to change the load during your workouts.
It also has attached storage to keep your home gym floor clear and functional.
However, not many attachments are included with this functional trainer, and you may need to buy some extra ones.
Product Facts:
4 - Mikolo Fitness LAT and Lift Pulley System (Cheapest & Best for Professionals)
- Mikolo Fitness LAT and Lift Pulley System
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It comes with different attachment options
- You can use both standard and Olympic weight plates
- Loads up to 280 lbs of weight without breaking or losing functionality
Cons
- The 90-inch cable breaks earlier than the 70-inch one
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Budget-conscious users
- Those needing heavy-duty construction for moderate weights
Who is it not for?
- Users preferring a very smooth cable operation
Final Verdict
This system offers great value and robust build quality at a lower price point. Best for those looking to extend their gym setup economically.
I integrated the Mikolo Fitness LAT and lift pulley system into my home gym setup, and found it to be a straightforward addition that seamlessly fit into my space.
It is built from heavy-duty alloy steel to ensure a long-lasting piece of fitness equipment [4].
What I like the most about this pulley system is it comes with two cables, including 70-inch and 90-inch, to allow more adjustability and strength-building options.
It is extremely portable and easy to assemble. However, the cable motion isn't so smooth since there is more friction between the cable and the wheel.
Product Facts:
5 - Sunny Health and Fitness Lat Pulldown Pulley System
- Sunny Health and Fitness Lat Pulldown
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Highly versatile for pulling exercises such as rows and lat-pull-down variations
- The pulley system is solid and offers stability
- One-year structural frame warranty
Cons
- It collects dust and needs to be maintained and cleaned frequently
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Users needing versatility for various exercises
- Those looking for a sturdy, stable setup
Who is it not for?
- Those with very limited space
Final Verdict
A solid option for those aiming for a variety of pulling exercises. It's sturdy yet demands more maintenance.
During my sessions with the Sunny Health and Fitness lat pulldown pulley system, I enjoyed the variety of strength-building exercises it offered, allowing me to hit different muscle groups.
The cables are built from a high-strength nylon coat to ensure durability and a smooth exercise experience.
The counterweight at your feet allows for a more versatile upper-body workout. My favorite thing about this pulley system is that you can use your weights to load it up without spending money on new weight plates.
However, it takes a significant portion of space and won't fit in most of quality compact home gyms.
Product Facts:
6 - Sertt Home Gym Pulley System (Best for Beginners)
- Dimensions : No
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Compact and detachable
- Warranty : Yes (30 days)
- Premium materials : Yes (High-quality steel and durable cable)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 2 loading pin designs make the weights stay in place
- Easily shorten or make your cables longer
- Excellent for beginners due to weight capacity and variety of attachments
Cons
- There is no option for ceiling or wall mounting
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Beginners needing a simple, effective setup
- Those looking for adjustable cable lengths
Who is it not for?
- Advanced users seeking higher weight capacity
Final Verdict
Ideal for novices with its ease of use and versatility. However, it may not suit the needs of more advanced lifters.
I started my pulley journey with the Sertt home gym pulley system, and I found it to be an excellent choice for beginners like I was, especially with the variety of attachments it came with.
In addition, it can handle up to 330 lbs, which will be enough for most people and all beginners.
Furthermore, you can shorten or make your cable longer using adjusting tools to further diversify your workouts and maximal resistance.
However, one downside is that this pulley system doesn't include the flat bar.
Product Facts:
7 - FitPartner Weight Cable Pulley System Gym (Easiest to Assemble)
- Dimensions : Compact size
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Portable and easy assembly
- Warranty : Yes (30 days)
- Premium materials : Yes (Sturdy steel construction)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- The pulleys are very sturdy and track amazingly
- Easy to set up
- Includes an extra cable to use a second pulley with dial grips
Cons
- The Lat pulldown bar is on the short end
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those who appreciate easy setup and multiple attachments
- Users with Olympic weights
Who is it not for?
- Those looking for a commercial gym-grade system
Final Verdict
Budget-friendly and surprisingly sturdy, it's well-suited for home gyms and provides good adjustability.
FitPartner weight cable pulley system was a budget-friendly purchase. I was pleasantly surprised by the range of attachments it offered, allowing me to diversify my workouts.
Each piece of equipment is made according to the standards of gym accessories to ensure durability.
I was able to connect this pulley system to different equipment, including a power rack, pull-up bars, cable machines, etc.
However, it is mostly compatible with Olympic weights, and you may need to spend extra money if you don't have them.
Product Facts:
8 - Elikliv Weight Cable Pulley System
- Dimensions : 10.63" x 4.33" x 4.33"
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Compact with multifunctional use
- Warranty : Yes (30 days)
- Premium materials : Yes (Stainless steel)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has all the tools needed to install it
- Works with both one and two-inch plates
- Fast delivery with no issues
Cons
- Changing the carabiner from the handle is not extremely smooth
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those needing a compact, durable option
- Users with standard and Olympic weight plates
Who is it not for?
- Those preferring floor-based or portable systems
Final Verdict
A reliable choice for wall-mounted setups, offering good durability and ease of use with a sleek design.
Having mounted the Elikliv weight cable pulley system on my wall, its stainless steel frame not only added a sleek look but also promised longevity for my workouts.
It has three cables to ensure exercise versatility and a backup option if one of the cables wears off.
Attachments with the system have unique grips preventing slipping, calluses, or abrasions on your hands. It is compatible with standard and Olympic weight plates.
One downside I noticed is that it can only be wall-mounted and not mounted into the wood.
Product Facts:
9 - Trendbox Pulley System Gym Cable Machine
- Dimensions : No
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Includes multiple handles for various workouts
- Warranty : Yes (30 days)
- Premium materials : Yes (Alloy steel)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Anti-dropping positioning ball will make your reps smoother
- It can be attached to various wall types
- Very easy to install
Cons
- The lower pulley operation interferes with the weights as they are moving upward
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Users needing a simple, easy-to-install system
- Those with limited workout space
Who is it not for?
- Users performing very heavy lifts
Final Verdict
An excellent entry-level option that's easy to install and use. Suitable for small spaces and moderate training needs.
Setting up the Trendbox pulley system in my home gym was a breeze, especially since I could easily mount it to my brick wall, enhancing its stability.
The steel frame is stable and compact, allowing you to fit it easily in your functional home gym setup. Also, different attachment options included enable you to perform total body workouts.
I tried mounting this cable pulley system to different wall types, and it worked without problems.
However, cables are made of nylon rope, not steel, ensuring durability.
Product Facts:
10 - LFJ LAT Pulldown Pulley System
- Dimensions : 14.21" x 6.3" x 3.31"
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Compact, easy to assemble
- Warranty : Yes (30 days)
- Premium materials : Yes (Alloy steel)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to put together
- All parts seem solid, including the carabiners
- The plastic-coated cable is smooth and noise-free
Cons
- The mounting pin should be thicker
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Beginners and casual users
- Those needing a compact, affordable option
Who is it not for?
- Serious lifters needing a high-capacity system
Final Verdict
A practical, budget-friendly choice for beginners. It provides basic functionality without taking up much space.
When I was just starting out, the LFJ LAT pulldown pulley system was a godsend. With its inclusive set of a pulley, triceps rope, and straight bar, it had everything a beginner like me needed.
It is very practical, inexpensive, and doesn't take up much space in the home gym. It has a total capacity of 220 lbs, which will be enough for most people.
In addition, the gravity rubber balls increase safety when exercising.
However, I didn't like the fact that the cable is built from nylon, which isn't durable.
Product Facts:
How We Tested Home Gym Pulley Systems
Here's how we tested home gym pulley systems.
Durability
We put each system through a series of stress tests, simulating years of regular use in a short span of time. This involved repeatedly loading and unloading weights, performing thousands of reps, and exposing the systems to various conditions to check for wear and tear.
We also examined the quality of materials used, the sturdiness of the cables, and the resilience of the pulleys themselves.
Weight
We tested the systems with varying weights, starting with light loads and gradually increasing to the maximum capacity as stated by the manufacturer.
This helped us determine not only if the systems could handle the weight but also how they performed under strain. We looked for any signs of instability, wobbling, or undue stress on the cables and attachments.
Price
We compared the performance and features of each pulley system against its price point. This allowed us to gauge the value for money and identify which systems offered the best balance between cost and quality. We also considered additional costs, such as the potential need for extra attachments or maintenance expenses.
Buyer's Guide
When I was on the hunt for the perfect pulley system for my home gym, I had to consider factors like my personal fitness goals, budget, and the weight capacity I was aiming for.
Below is the guide on buying the perfect pulley system for your home gym if you are still unsure which one will suit you the best.
"Reps of air squats and push-ups won't grant you a 500-pound back squat or increase your bench press. But bodyweight training (also known as calisthenics) has its perks — and, yes, even the iron-dedicated should heed what follows."
- Andrew Gutman, Certified Personal Trainer
Setup
Deciding how to set up your brand-new pulley system depends largely on your space.
Some home gym pulley systems include power rack-mounted, wall-mounted, and portable pulley systems.
Wall-mounted pulleys are generally more stable since they are anchored into the wall, allowing no movement.
Also, they are excellent if you don't have enough space in your home gym.
Power Rack-mounted home gym pulley systems are stable and usually have a higher weight capacity.
Lastly, portable cable pulley systems allow you to easily relocate them anywhere you want or have space in your home gym.
In addition, they tend to be on the more affordable side and come with multiple attachment options.
Related: Joe Rogan Home Gym: Equipment and Setup
Footprint
How the cables are mounted will dictate the necessary footprint for the pulley system.
If you plan to attach your pulley system to an existing power rack, you may need additional height to accommodate the attachment.
Portable and wall-mounted pulleys don't take up any of the floor space.
However, you will need plenty of open space in front of it to perform most cable exercises. Most of the time, allowing for a 6 x 7-foot space for cable exercises will be enough.
Related: Small Home Gym Ideas: Turning Tiny Spaces Into Huge Results
Weight Capacity
Maximum weight capacity is one of the main things to consider when buying a pulley for your home gym.
Maximum weight capacity doesn't determine the maximum amount of weight you can lift but is an awesome indicator of the durability and strength of the components and overall construction.
Bodybuilders and advanced athletes usually seek a higher maximum weight capacity [5].
On the contrary, beginners can easily start with cable pulley systems with a lower weight capacity.
From my experience, choosing the pulley system with a weight capacity 50% higher than your maximum lifting capacity is best.
This will allow you to have enough space for progression without worrying about the pulley system being able to handle the heavy weight.
Cables
Picking the right cables will play a major role in its durability, functional performance, and the equipment's feel.
In addition, the biggest difference between commercial and home gym pulley systems is the quality of the cables.
You should always aim to choose thick, aircraft-grade, or military-grade cables or even steel-coated sables to ensure they last longer and don't get damaged easily.
These materials can handle a higher weight capacity than nylon rope cables and feel much smoother while performing different exercises.
Always avoid nylon cables since they are cheap, built from a material that won't last, and create more friction as the cable passes over the pulley.
Cable length is another important factor, where longer cables are better for taller people since they allow for a greater range of motion. Short cables restrict the range of motion and limit exercise selection [6].
Always aim to choose pulley systems with multiple cables and lengths.
Attachment Options
The essential equipment you should look for is a lat pulldown bar and triceps pushdown rope. However, most pulley systems don't include attachments, meaning you must spend extra money to buy them. Having more cable attachments will allow for more versatile workouts.
A good piece of advice is to buy attachments at checkout since there is usually some discount, and you can save money.
"Cable exercises offer an incredibly diverse range of benefits to every lifter. They are potent tools to optimize hypertrophy training and offer a joint-stabilizing option between rigid machines and free weights."
- Eric Bugera, Certified Personal Trainer
Who Should Buy a Pulley System for Home Gym?
Everybody looking to add versatility to their workouts and have more muscle-building options should buy a pulley system for a home gym.
Ideally, you will use a pulley multiple times a week.
Also, if you are looking for equipment that can replace free weights, such as barbells, dumbbells or kettlebells, the pulley system is just for you.
Related posts:
- How to Tighten Cables on a Home Gym Equipment
- 10 Best Cable Machines
- Best At-Home Cable Crossover Equipment
Who Shouldn't Buy a Pulley System for Home Gym?
Everybody who uses it several times a month shouldn't buy a pulley system for a home gym.
It isn't worth paying hundreds of dollars for something you will use a few times a month.
Also, if you are a complete beginner without prior experience in any type of training, maybe you should skip buying a pulley system until you get more experience.
Safety Tips and Maintenance
To ensure a safe workout experience, always inspect the cables for any signs of fraying or wear before use. Regularly check the pulley wheels and attachments for any loose parts or damage. When using the system, maintain a stable stance and avoid jerky movements to prevent undue stress on the cables.
As for maintenance, it's advisable to periodically lubricate the pulley wheels to ensure smooth operation.
If any component shows signs of wear or damage, replace it promptly to maintain the integrity of the system and ensure user safety.
FAQs
Is a Pulley System Worth It for Home Gym?
Yes, the pulley system is worth it for a home gym. The pulley system can make your workouts more versatile, enabling different muscle-building options.
Is Double Pulley Better Than Single Pulley?
Yes, a double pulley is better than a single pulley. Double pulleys allow you to add more bilateral exercises to your workout regimen.
Which Pulley System Is the Most Efficient?
The most efficient pulley system is the compound pulley system. This is because a compound pulley makes 50% less effort to pull the entire weight of the plate.
What Are the Different Pulley Systems?
These are the different pulley systems in home gyms:
- High pulleys: Used for lat pulldowns or tricep pushdowns, focus on upper body exercises.
- Mid pulleys: Versatile in nature and are perfect for exercises like chest flies or rows, allowing for a broad range of motion.
- Low pulleys: Ideal for exercises targeting the lower body, such as leg curls or upright rows.
Our Verdict on the Best Pulley System for Home Gym
Having tried and tested various pulley systems, I can confidently say that the Rogue Spud Inc. pulley system stands out as the best for home gyms.
This pulley model is compatible with various attachments and is very affordable. In addition, I experienced the best triceps and rear delt workouts with this pulley system.
Lastly, it is durable and doesn't break easily or wear off, making it a long-lasting piece of exercise equipment.
Our #1 Recommendation
Rogue Spud Inc. Pulley Systems (Best Overall & Durable)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Compatible with all types of attachments
- Offers killer triceps and rear delt progress
- Super affordable
- Highly durable and doesn't easily wear off
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of November
- When attaching, you need to position yourself further from weights to keep your body clear
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