Shortlist · Cable Machines
Cable machines that state their weight-stack increment
Stack machines with a brand-stated jump between stack plates, with pulley ratio kept separate from that increment.
4 of 15 machines in our index qualify · Checked against published specifications · Updated
By IRONINDEX · How we research
How this list is chosen
Every weight-stack cable machine in our index whose brand explicitly states the increment between stack plates.
The list is not ranked: products with photographs come first, then each group is in name order. We haven't tested these products; every figure comes from a checked product page, linked from each product profile. How we build shortlists.
The shortlist
- Weight-stack resistance
- Weight stack
- Brand-stated stack increment
- 4.5 kg
- Type
- Functional trainer
- Stack
- 63.5 kg
- Increment
- 4.5 kg
- Ratio
- 2:1
- Price band
- Over £2,000
- Weight-stack resistance
- Weight stack
- Brand-stated stack increment
- 5 kg
- Type
- Multi-gym
- Stack
- 80 kg
- Increment
- 5 kg
- Ratio
- Not published
- Price band
- £1,000 to £2,000
- Weight-stack resistance
- Weight stack
- Brand-stated stack increment
- 6.8 kg
- Type
- Multi-gym
- Stack
- 102 kg
- Increment
- 6.8 kg
- Ratio
- Not published
- Price band
- £1,000 to £2,000
- Weight-stack resistance
- Weight stack
- Brand-stated stack increment
- 4.54 kg
- Type
- Multi-gym
- Stack
- 41 kg
- Increment
- 4.54 kg
- Ratio
- Not published
- Price band
- £250 to £500
"Not published" means the checked product page doesn't state the value. Line drawings show the type of equipment, not the exact product. Compare every product in the cable machines table to sort, add your own measurements or compare products side by side.
We earn a commission from purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
About this list
The stack increment is the weight of each plate in a machine's weight stack, and it sets the smallest change you can make to the load. This list includes every weight-stack machine in our index whose brand states that figure.
What you feel at the handle also depends on the pulley ratio. Where a brand gives both, the step at the handle can be calculated; machines that state a stack total but not the step between plates are listed under Couldn't confirm.
Before you buy
- The stack increment is the smallest change you can make to the weight. Smaller steps make it easier to progress on lighter exercises such as raises and pushdowns.
- What you feel at the handle depends on the pulley ratio. On a 2:1 cable the step at the handle is half the stack step; without a stated ratio, it is unknown.
- Some stacks have a lighter top plate or an add-on weight, so the steps may not all be equal. The brand's stack description says whether they are.
- Height, depth and the space to stand in front of the machine matter as much as the stack. Cable rows and pulldowns need room beyond the frame.
Notes on the list
- Gym Gear Rhino Compact Dual Adjustable Pulley and Folding Half Rack
Two 63.5 kg stacks in 4.5 kg steps at 2:1. Frame dimensions are not reliably labelled on the maker page.
Couldn't confirm
These may qualify, but a figure the rule needs isn't published or sources disagree. Ask the seller before relying on them.
- Gym Gear Perform Series Dual Adjustable Pulley
Stack increment not published.
- Gym Gear Platinum Series Dual Adjustable Pulley
Stack increment not published.
- Gym Gear Pro Series Dual Adjustable Pulley (Full Shroud)
Stack increment not published.
- Gym Gear Pro Series Dual Adjustable Pulley Plus
Stack increment not published.
- Gym Gear Rhino Pro Strength Machine
Stack increment not published.
- Gym Gear Spartan Rig, Red
Stack increment not published.
- Gym Gear Spartan Studio Rig, Black
Stack increment not published.
- Gym Gear Spartan Studio Rig, Red
Stack increment not published.
Ruled out
- Body Power Multi-Function Smith Machine with Half Rack & Dual Adjustable Pulley
Weight-stack resistance: Weight stack; Brand-stated stack increment: Not applicable
- Gym Gear Pro Series Plate Loaded Lat Pulldown/Seated Row Attachment
Weight-stack resistance: Weight stack; Brand-stated stack increment: Not applicable
- Gym Gear Rhino Strength Machine
Weight-stack resistance: Weight stack; Brand-stated stack increment: Not applicable
What this list doesn't check
- On a 2:1 pulley, divide a stated stack increment by two; do not assume a ratio for a machine that does not publish it.
- A stack increment is the step at the stack, not a measured force at the handle.
- Plate-loaded machines have no stack increment. Their loading choices and rated limits need separate checks.
Related guides
- Cable Machines and Functional Trainers for Home Use
The single most versatile machine you can add to a home gym, and also one of the most space-hungry. Here's how to think about it.
- Free Weights vs Machines for Home Use
Both build muscle. At home, space, budget and training alone change which one makes more sense.