Best Home Gym Pulley Systems (Flexible Workout in 2024)

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Published by James Cunningham, BSc, CPT | Staff Writer & Senior Coach
Last updated: November 16, 2024
FACT CHECKED by Benedict Ang, CPT, PN1-NC
We personally test every product featured in our reviews and guides. By ordering products anonymously and getting a group of independent testers, we are able to get first-hand experience and provide data-driven recommendations. Learn more.

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

Editor's Choice
Rogue Spud Inc. Pulley Systems
Rogue Fitness
Rated 4.9/5
Click For Best Price
2nd Best Choice
Titan Fitness Short Wall Mounted Pulley Tower V3
Titan Fitness
Rated 4.7/5
Check Current Price
3rd Best Choice
Rep Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer
Rep Fitness
Rated 4.8/5
Check Current Price

Our Top Pulley Systems for Home Gym (December 2024)

1 - Rogue Spud Inc. Pulley Systems (Best Overall & Durable)

Rated 4.9/5
4.9
Durability
4.8
Price
4.8
Quality
4.9
User Ratings
4.9
Product Effectiveness
Rogue Spud Inc. Pulley Systems
  • 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)

Rated 4.7/5
4.6
Durability
4.7
Price
4.8
Quality
4.6
User Ratings
4.6
Product Effectiveness
Titan Fitness Short Wall Mounted Pulley Tower V3
  • 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)

Rated 4.8/5
4.9
Durability
4.6
Price
4.7
Quality
4.8
User Ratings
4.9
Product Effectiveness
Rep Fitness FT-5000 Functional Trainer
  • 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)

Rated 4.5/5
4.6
Durability
4.7
Price
4.5
Quality
4.4
User Ratings
4.5
Product Effectiveness
Mikolo Fitness LAT and Lift Pulley System
  • 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

Rated 4.3/5
4.4
Durability
4.3
Price
4.4
Quality
4.3
User Ratings
4.2
Product Effectiveness
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)

Rated 4.2/5
4.1
Durability
4.3
Price
4.2
Quality
4.1
User Ratings
4.1
Product Effectiveness
Sertt Home Gym Pulley System
  • 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)

Rated 4.1/5
4.1
Durability
4.2
Price
4.1
Quality
4.1
User Ratings
4.1
Product Effectiveness
FitPartner Weight Cable Pulley System Gym
  • 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

Rated 4.1/5
4.2
Durability
4.2
Price
4.1
Quality
4.1
User Ratings
4.1
Product Effectiveness
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

Rated 4.1/5
4.2
Durability
4.2
Price
4.1
Quality
4.1
User Ratings
4.1
Product Effectiveness
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

Rated 4.1/5
4.1
Durability
4.1
Price
4.1
Quality
4.1
User Ratings
4.1
Product Effectiveness
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

A person browsing for the best pully system online through laptop

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

A person working out with a pulley

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

Close up shot of weight plates

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.

Related: What Type of Cable to Use for Your Home Gym

Attachment Options

A person at a home gym working out on a pulley

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?

A person working out on a pulley system

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:

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)

Rogue Spud Inc. Pulley Systems

Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System

4.9
Durability
4.8
Price
4.8
Quality
4.9
User Ratings
4.9
Product Effectiveness
Pros
  • 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 December
Cons
  • When attaching, you need to position yourself further from weights to keep your body clear
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About The Author

James Cunningham, BSc, CPT
Staff Writer & Senior Coach
James Cunningham, BSc, CPT holds a BSc degree in Sport & Exercise Science from University of Hertfordshire. He's a Health & Performance Coach from London that brings a unique blend of academic knowledge of health supplements and practical exercise experience to the table for his readers.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Benedict Ang, CPT, PN1-NC
Staff Writer & Senior Coach
Benedict Ang, CPT, PN1-NC is an ex-National Soccer player turned MMA and Kickboxing champion, with ACE CPT and PN1-NC certifications. His advice is rooted in education and experience, ensuring that readers receive scientific and battle-tested insights. His mission is to empower his clients and readers to realize their potential and become the best versions of themselves.
Learn more about our editorial policy

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Our durability score is based 3 factors including: material quality, maintenance, and warranty terms. The score is a measure of objective test results against set standards. For more information see our durability score explanation here.
Our price score is based 3 factors including: cost justification, market comparison, and overall value. The score is a subjective measurement of the product's value against its price when compared to similar products. For more information see our price score explanation here.
User ratings measure the consensus experience. Our user ratings score is based on aggregated reviews of verified buyers. The score is an objective measure of the average rating from various online merchants. For more information see our user ratings score explanation here.
How well a product works compared to the marketed claims. Our product effectiveness score is based 3 factors including: our test teams end results, time to see results, and verified user testimonials. The score is a blended calculation of objective tests against set standards and subjective community assessment. For more information see our product effectiveness score explanation here.
Our scoring system is the result of objective testing data and subjective expert analysis by a team of fitness coaches and medical experts. Our scoring factors are weighted based on importance. For more information, see our product review guidelines.
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